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The investigation of novel Benzimidazoles as anti-cancer agents in triple negative breast cancer cell lines

  • Authors: Smit, Christie Jane
  • Date: 2024-10-11
  • Subjects: Uncatalogued
  • Language: English
  • Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/463973 , vital:76462
  • Description: Access restricted. Exxpected release in 2026. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Biochemistry, Microbiology & Bioinformatics, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-10-11

The making of masculinities: the hidden curriculum about Gender-Based Violence and Rape Culture at an elite private school in South Africa

  • Authors: Talbot, Alexandreo Zinhle
  • Date: 2024-10-11
  • Subjects: Uncatalogued
  • Language: English
  • Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/466038 , vital:76679
  • Description: This study examines the formation of ‘ruling class’ masculinities and their relationship to gender-based violence (GBV) and rape culture at an elite private school (called Blue School for the purposes of this study). Through interviews with alumni, the research explores the recollections and narratives of young men in terms of how they navigated and experienced masculine identity formation in the school context during their adolescence, and also deciphers their awareness regarding GBV and rape culture. The findings demonstrate that identity formation within the school studied is complex and often reflected as a Western-centric masculinity drenched in heteronormativity. This is captured through the shared experiences alumni of the school regarding their adherence to traditional values, submission to hierarchical structures, collective mockery of vulnerability and the instillation of competitive individualism. The alumni speak to the ways in which boyhood and gender are conceptualised through the taught curriculum, contrasted with the hidden scripts of masculinities in the boarding school environment. The complex interplay between institutional culture and the formation of gender identities shows a superficial adherence to progressive ideals, unveiling the entrenched hegemonic practices that reinforce restrictive norms. Most alumni expressed a sense of living in an isolated bubble, where wrongdoings are swept under the carpet. Through these practices, elite private schools depict institutional blindness as an entangled strategy to protect institutional reputation and capital. Insinuating irrelevance of GBV within elite private boys’ schools emphasises the racist and homophobic discourses that deem who is capable of performing and experiencing gendered and sexual violence. By drawing on African feminism and Foucault, the study provides insight into the pervasive disciplinary mechanisms and their lasting impact on the alumni’s personal and social embodiment of masculinity. This highlights the urgent need for a reimagined approach to masculinity that is inclusive and cognizant of historical and socio-political nuances. The thesis calls for a systemic examination of the elite private school system across South Africa and African-centred pro-feminist educational strategies to address the genealogical discourses embedded in these institutions. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Political and International Studies, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-10-11

The number of independent subsets and the energy of caterpillars under degree restriction

  • Authors: Xhanti, Sinoxolo
  • Date: 2024-10-11
  • Subjects: Graph energy , Independent set , Hosoya index , Chemical graph theory , Caterpillar tree , Graph theory
  • Language: English
  • Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/466838 , vital:76791 , DOI https://doi.org/10.21504/10962/466838
  • Description: The energy En(G) of a graph G is defined as the sum of the absolute values of its eigenvalues. The Hosoya index Z(G) of a graph G is the number of independent edge subsets of G, including the empty set. And, the Merrifield-Simmons index σ(G) of a graph G is the number of independent vertex subsets of G, including the empty set. The studies of these three graph invariants are motivated by their application in chemistry, combined with pure mathematical interests. In particular, they can be used to predict boiling points of saturated hydrocarbons and estimate the total π-electron energy. For ℓ ≥ 1, let a1, a2, . . . , aℓ be non-negative integers, such that a1 and aℓ are positive. The tree obtained from the path graph of vertices v1, v2, . . . , vℓ, by attaching ai new leaves to vi, for 1 ≤ i ≤ ℓ, is called a (a1, a2, . . . , aℓ)-caterpillar and denoted by C(a1 + 1, a2 + 2, . . . , aℓ−1 + 2, aℓ +1). In this thesis, we characterize extremal caterpillars relative to the energy, the Hosoya index and the Merrifield-Simmons index. We first study caterpillars with the same degree sequence, then compare caterpillars of the same size, same order, and different degree sequence. For any given degree sequence D, we characterize the caterpillar X(D) that maximizes Z and En. In X(D), as we move along the internal path towards the center, the degrees are in a nondecreasing order. Characterization of the caterpillar S(D) that has the minimum Z and En and maximum σ is also provided. In S(D), large and small degrees alternate. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Mathematics, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-10-11

The ontological reality of spirit and its ways of knowing as a form of embodied intangible cultural heritage: a case of the oGobela teaching approaches and techniques within Ubungoma practice

  • Authors: Jacobs, Venetia Rose
  • Date: 2024-10-11
  • Subjects: Spiritual teacher , Cultural property South Africa , Ubuntu (Philosophy) , Learning , Teaching , Traditional knowledge
  • Language: English
  • Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/463570 , vital:76421
  • Description: This study uses an ethnographic lens to explore the lived experiences, learning processes and experiential knowledge of oGobela (spiritual teachers). The study explores oGobela teaching approaches, techniques, and ways of knowing in Ubungoma1 practice which is known as Ukuthwasa2, which is understood as a modality or expression of Isintu. Furthermore, Isintu is defined as Indigenous knowledge systems and ancestral wisdom traditions which include Indigenous expressions of African peoples’ interactions with the cosmos, nature, earth and knowledge systems. The study reveals how esoteric knowledge (knowledge from ancestors and divinities) is translated into attainable knowledge in the form of healing techniques. This study aims to dismantle a largely European pedagogy when it pertains to the understanding of religious practices. An ethnographic lens layered with a decolonial intent worked together as a counter-hegemonic practice in the recentralisation of marginal voices, in this case, the voices of Izangoma narrating their lived experiences. Izangoma refer to people who have graduated as healers from initiation school. The theoretical framework used to guide the study was the sociocultural theory and decolonial theory. The decolonial theory was useful in my study to re-examine imperial histories through the harmful lens of colonialism. Sociocultural theory is geared towards looking at how learners actually learn as opposed to the way learners are expected to learn. This Vygotskian school of thought believes that human development is not isolated from historical, cultural and social contexts. My methodology made use of the case study, narrative analysis and criticalethnographic approaches involving semi-structured interviews with approximately seven Izangoma. This included radical embodied participation and reflexive journalling. I also drew on emerging studies on Indigenous knowledge systems such as the “anthropology of dreaming” (Tedlock, 1987, p. 1) and the “institution of drumming and dreaming in Ngoma” (Janzen, 1991, p. 291) to reflect on my experience as an initiate (Gogo Ukukhanya KweMhlaba) and my observations of my Gobela and other oGobela learning processes. The study draws a sample pool of both Izangoma and oGobela, to provide a holistic view of the role of oGobela from a teacher and learner perspective. It is important to note that not everyone who is a Sangoma is a Gobela. Becoming a Gobela is an additional calling based on specific instructions from your ancestors. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, Secondary and Post-School Education, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-10-11

The processes and problems involved in winding up a deceased estate in South Africa

  • Authors: Mazwi, Likho Athule
  • Date: 2024-10-11
  • Subjects: Estates (Law) , Wills , Testator , Executors and administrators , Income tax , Inheritance and transfer tax South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/463505 , vital:76415
  • Description: This thesis discusses the processes involved in winding up a deceased estate and potential problems that can occur in carrying out these processes. The research adopts a legal interpretive approach, more specifically a doctrinal research methodology. This is low risk desktop research and is based on publicly available data. In analysing the processes involved in winding up an estate, a will (or lack of a will) is identified as the starting point for the process. A will stipulates how the testator wishes to dispose of his or her property in the event of death, and must be executed in terms of the formalities provided in section 2 of the Wills Act. Section 13(1) of the Administration of Estates Act provides that the estate of the deceased is not wound up until letters of executorship have been granted by the Master. The Administration of Estates Act provides for formalities in the appointment and remuneration of an executor, who is responsible for the administration of the estate and distribution of the assets in the estate. Before the properties can be distributed to the beneficiaries, the executor must first call every person who has a claim against the estate to lodge a claim and pay the debts, including tax debts owed by the deceased. These tax liabilities are determined in terms of the Income Tax Act and Estate Duty Act. The three taxpayers involved in the winding-up process are the deceased taxpayer, the deceased estate, and the beneficiaries of the estate. Several problems that may occur in winding up an estate are identified in the thesis. These include a testator who is incapable of executing a will, wills that do not comply with the formalities, forged wills, undue influence exerted on a testator, the death of testator caused by a beneficiary, disqualified beneficiaries, lost wills, the lack of a valid will, disputed and late claims against the estate, an executor failing to perform his or her duties, removing the executor of an estate, winding up the estate of a person who has died without a will, and insolvent estates. These problems, together with possible solutions, are discussed in detail. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-10-11

The reading to learn pedagogy in South African inclusive English First Additional Language classrooms: successes and challenges

  • Authors: Moyo, Sheron
  • Date: 2024-10-11
  • Subjects: Reading (Secondary) South Africa Northern Cape , Reading comprehension , English as a second or foreign language , Inclusive education South Africa Northern Cape , High school students Social conditions
  • Language: English
  • Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/463735 , vital:76436
  • Description: Reading to Learn (RtL) has been frequently suggested for students not meeting grade-appropriate reading standards. However, its achievements and shortcomings have not been examined in inclusive education. In light of this, the main goal of this study was to explore the successes and challenges of this methodology in grade 9 English First Additional Language (FAL) inclusive classrooms across four schools in the Northern Cape Province’s John Taolo Gaetsewe District. In light of the grave concerns about literacy development in South African schools, this methodology was created to fulfil the literacy needs of students from underprivileged groups in Australia. This qualitative study was grounded in social constructivist theory and an interpretative paradigm. The research used an exploratory case study comprising four participants who were purposively recruited and empowered with RtL between 2016 and 2022. The data-gathering methods used were semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and classroom observations to get insights into the achievements and shortcomings of the RtL pedagogy in inclusive classrooms. The qualitative data in this study was analysed using thematic analysis. The study’s findings revealed that the RtL pedagogy gave students who faced reading obstacles in inclusive classes the skills needed to read, read with meaning, and improve as readers and writers through its six-step scaffolding interactive cycle. There were challenges in employing the RtL pedagogy in inclusive classes, such as it is time-consuming and makes it difficult for teachers to adhere to the time frame stipulated by the annual teaching plan. Nevertheless, the study’s findings showed that the advantages of the RtL pedagogy outweigh the challenges. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, Institute for the Study of Englishes of Africa, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-10-11

The relationship between financial sector deepening and income inequality in South Africa

  • Authors: Mandleni, Siyanda
  • Date: 2024-10-11
  • Subjects: Uncatalogued
  • Language: English
  • Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/462790 , vital:76335
  • Description: This research analyzes the relationship between financial sector deepening and income inequality in South Africa from 1980 to 2019, using data from the World Bank Database and the Standardized World Income Inequality Database. An autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model is used to explore both the long- and short-run relationships that exist between these variables. Additionally, control variables like GDP, inflation, and structural changes that occurred, which include 1994 and 2005 are considered. According to the findings, the financial sector exacerbates income inequality in the long run. These findings highlight the need for policymakers to prioritize inclusive financial sector reforms. One recommendation is to enhance the access of Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) to formal financial services. For example, promoting more black industrialists and SMMEs in the supply of financial products and services. Possible reforms may include adjusting credit requirements for different income groups or offering lower interest rates on loans for businesses. Ensuring that more financial sector gains are retained within black communities can foster inclusive growth by generating jobs and ensuring a more equitable distribution of income. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-10-11

The relationship between human, social and financial capital and small and medium enterprise (SME) performance in South Africa

  • Authors: Siso, Masiso Nomakha
  • Date: 2024-10-11
  • Subjects: Uncatalogued
  • Language: English
  • Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/462823 , vital:76338
  • Description: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a severe impact on developing countries, exacerbating economic stagnation, high poverty rates, and unemployment. South Africa, in particular, faces significant challenges, with a 35.3 percent unemployment rate and a 17.4 percent GDP decline in 2021. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are crucial during these economic challenges, traditionally employing a substantial workforce and contributing significantly to the GDP. Despite their importance, SMEs often struggle, with a small percentage surviving the initial two years. Limited research has been conducted on the resources and capabilities crucial for enterprise performance in South Africa. While studies in developed countries exist, few explore the relationship between resources and capabilities facilitating SME performance in developing contexts. This study focuses on human capital, bonding, bridging, and linking social capital, and financial capital as key resources and capabilities. Given the backdrop that many entrepreneurs in South Africa may not possess formal education or extensive work experience, this study contends that financial literacy—encompassing financial knowledge, behaviour, and attitude—serves as a proxy for human capital. Additionally, a notable portion of entrepreneurs in South Africa face a deficit in the skills and knowledge essential for identifying entrepreneurial opportunities. Even among those possessing these capabilities, the challenge lies in the lack of necessary resources, including social and financial capital, to effectively transform such prospects into viable new ventures. This study employed a causal research design and adopted a quantitative research approach within a post-positivist paradigm. The primary objective was to investigate the relationship between the following independent variables; human (where financial literacy was used as a proxy which consisted of financial knowledge, attitude and behaviour), bonding, bridging and linking social capital, and financial capital and the dependent variable; SME performance. An online self-administered questionnaire was used to gather data from SME owners/managers. A pilot study was undertaken, in which an electronic link to the questionnaire was sent to potential respondents. Potential respondents were identified using purposive and convenience sampling methods. Data collection yielded 334 usable responses from SME owners/managers in South Africa. After cleaning the data, the analysis examined the relationship between independent and dependent variables. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and Cronbach Alpha Coefficient analysis were used to confirm the validity and reliability of the measurement instrument, respectively. Descriptive statistics, regression, and correlation results were reported. Furthermore, a group mean analysis, including independent sample t-tests and one-way ANOVAs, were performed to investigate potential significant differences in variables based on demographic and enterprise related variables. The findings revealed a significant positive relationship between financial capital and SME performance. This indicates that an entrepreneur's ability to access financial capital or possess financial capital contributes to the performance and success of enterprises in South Africa. This finding underscores the crucial role of financial capital in facilitating the growth and sustainability of enterprises, as it provides a buffer against unfavourable economic shocks, enables entrepreneurs to pursue more capital-intensive strategies, and affords them more time to learn and overcome challenges. Conversely, no significant relationships were found between financial knowledge, behaviour, and attitude, bonding, bridging, and linking social capital, and SME performance. This study contributes to the development of SMEs in South Africa by identifying the critical resources and capabilities essential for their survival and growth. Additionally, it offers valuable recommendations for policymakers to create a conducive environment for entrepreneurs and suggests potential educational initiatives and support structures. Furthermore, this study advocates for the exploration of innovative financing approaches to build a financial cushion and bolster resilience against economic upheavals. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-10-11

The relationship between REITS and stock market prices during periods of volatility: a Bivariate GARCH analysis

  • Authors: Makara, Ntsali Audrey
  • Date: 2024-10-11
  • Subjects: Uncatalogued
  • Language: English
  • Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/462768 , vital:76333
  • Description: The relationship between real estate and the stock market is essential because they are the two most highly invested assets. In addition, examining the volatility of any asset is important for risk management and investor portfolio returns. The general motivation for analysing the relationship is that it can provide insight to policymakers and investors about the behaviour of stocks and real estate assets. The purpose of this research is to examine the relationship between Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITS) and stock prices in South Africa using daily data from 2 January 2013 to 31 May 2023. The wealth and credit effects are the two mechanisms used to interpret the relationship. The wealth effect is a mechanism that states that the causal relationship between the two markets runs from increasing stock prices which tends to increase real estate. The credit effect claims that real estate prices influence stock prices. Most of the existing literature has examined the relationship between the two markets but less attention has been given to the volatility spillover effects. Therefore, the analysis presented in this thesis extends the existing research by examining the relationship and the spillover effects between the REITs and stock markets. The study employs quantitative research methodology using the following econometric methods i)Vector Autoregression model, ii) Granger Causality Tests and Bivariate GARCH models. The study found that there is no long-run relationship between REITS and stock prices. In addition, the Granger Causality results showed a unidirectional relationship between REITs and stock prices. The results indicate the presence of a wealth effect in South Africa, meaning that changes in stock prices influence the real estate market. Moreover, the GARCH analysis found volatility spillover effects from the stock to the REITs markets. These results are helpful for policymakers and investors interested in the portfolio and risk management of the two markets. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-10-11

The reproductive biology of warty sea cucumber, Neostichopus grammatus Clark (Holothuroidea: Echinodermata) under natural and integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) conditions in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa

  • Authors: Senekal, Heleen Ester
  • Date: 2024-10-11
  • Subjects: Uncatalogued
  • Language: English
  • Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/464451 , vital:76512
  • Description: This study investigated the reproductive cycle of the warty sea cucumber, Neostichopus grammatus, in the wild and in a farming environment, to test its suitability for co-culture with abalone Haliotis midae in an IMTA system. The research formed part of a broader EU H2020 program, Aquavitae, and was conducted at Wild Coast Abalone in South Africa. The study investigated several environmental parameters, such as temperature, day length, and substrate, to determine if these have any effects on the gonadal development and reproductive cycle. The natural gametogenic cycle of wild warty sea cucumbers was determined by monitoring the Gonadosomatic Index (GI) values monthly for a period of 16 months. The GI index was validated by means of other maturity assessment techniques including measurement of the size and colour of the gonads, oocyte diameter measurements and gonad histology sections. Wild collected sea cucumbers were maintained in abalone farm rearing tanks on a diet of abalone feed and faecal waste for a period of 10 months, with GI values being determined monthly. The wild and farmed sea cucumber GI data was correlated with environmental parameters. Seasonal water temperature was strongly correlated with the GI values of wild warty sea cucumbers, suggesting that water temperature likely influences gonadal development. Sea cucumbers matured sexually during colder months (May to September) and spawned from September to February, during summer. The results of oocyte measurements, macroscopic and microscopic analyses, and histological analyses in combination with the GI values, provides a practical indicator of sexual maturity for captive breeding purposes. Farmed warty sea cucumbers followed the same annual reproductive cycle as wild sea cucumbers, however they came into spawning condition approximately one month later than wild conspecifics. As the farm water temperature was significantly higher than the ambient ocean water temperature, it was hypothesised that this may have affected the gonadal development of the farmed sea cucumbers. Furthermore, the farm-reared sea cucumbers lost weight and condition, indicating a nutritional deficiency. Previous studies indicated that the presence of a sand sediment facilitated the assimilation of organic detrital matter by sea cucumbers. An additional trial was thus set up to determine the effect of a sand sediment and cooler ambient temperature on the growth and gonadal development of the warty sea cucumbers. The growth and GI values of sea cucumbers in the cool water treatment did not differ significantly from the ambient temperature control groups. However, the addition of a sand substrate to the sea cucumber tanks had a significant positive growth effect on sea cucumber body mass and GI values. Sea cucumbers fed a diet of abalone waste material on the sand substrate exhibited final average GI values of 2.99 % (SE ±0.56). In contrast, sea cucumbers kept in bare tanks and only received abalone waste as food had significantly lower average GI values of 1.36 % (SE±0.2). This suggests that the provision of a sand sustrate in sea cucumber rearing containers is essential for the adequate nutrition and gonadal development. The results of this study indicate that the warty sea cucumber is a promising candidate for inlcusion in an IMTA system with South African perlemoen abalone. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Ichthyology and Fisheries Science, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-10-11

The role of academic literacy courses in students’ disciplinary knowledge-building: a case study of a Namibian university

  • Authors: Nekondo, Linus Vaakohambo
  • Date: 2024-10-11
  • Subjects: Uncatalogued
  • Language: English
  • Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/466383 , vital:76723 , DOI https://doi.org/10.21504/10962/466383
  • Description: This doctoral study investigated the role of academic literacy courses in shaping students’ disciplinary knowledge within the context of a Namibian university. Motivated by concerns surrounding persistently high attrition rates in higher education institutions globally, the research challenges the prevailing tendency to attribute poor student performance solely to individual factors, thus neglecting systemic issues whereby the higher education sector is absolved of responsibility. This absolution is often on the premise that the university has provided adequate support, such as through academic literacy courses, to equip students for success. However, despite the provision of such courses, high attrition rates persist. The study was guided by the following questions: 1. How is ‘academic literacy’ conceptualised in the UNAM English for Academic Purposes course curriculum? This question is further divided into two sub-questions: (a) How do the academics who teach the UNAM EAP course conceptualise ‘academic literacy’? and (b) How is knowledge structured in course documents and assessments? 2. How do academics who teach other courses conceptualise UNAM's EAP course and its relationship to the literacy practices expected in their courses? 3. How do students experience the EAP course at UNAM, and how do they understand the relationship between the content and activities of the EAP course and the academic literacy demands of their other courses? Data collection involved individual interviews with both English for Academic Purposes (EAP) lecturers and discipline-specific lecturers across three UNAM campuses, the Faculty of Education, Faculty of Engineering and Faculty of Health Sciences. Additionally, focus group interviews were conducted with students from these same campuses. To ensure robustness, triangulation of interview data was achieved by complementing it with document analysis of EAP course materials and mainstream course documents. The goal was to identify instances of code-matches (where academic literacy practices align with the expectations of the disciplines) or code-clashes (where discrepancies emerge). The findings illuminated prevailing perceptions of academic literacy as a set of skills encompassing reading, writing, and related competencies. Implicit in this understanding was that these presumed academic skills are universally applicable across academic contexts and can be taught with equal effectiveness to students regardless of their chosen discipline. An analysis using Legitimation Code Theory (LCT) revealed that such conceptualisation of academic literacy as practices that are neutral and generic across the academy indicates weaker epistemic relations (ER-), and weaker social relations (SR-). That is, the understanding of academic literacy that dominated in the data legitimated neither specialist knowledge nor any specific disposition in the knower. This results in what is known in LCT as a relativist code. Moreover, the study identified a distinct emphasis on generic, skill-based instruction in the EAP course documents. The relativist code identified in the analysis of the interviews with EAP lecturers, and echoing concerns raised in academic literacy literature about add-on courses, was starkly evident in the EAP course content. A code-clash emerged between the skills and genres taught in the EAP course and those required for success in mainstream courses. Three focus areas of the EAP course, essay writing, report writing, and referencing, were analysed in some depth to ascertain the nature of the code-clash. The thesis presents a comprehensive examination of a specific course and its reflection of prevalent generic common-sense approaches observed in various contexts. While the study centred on UNAM's EAP course, its aim was not to critique a particular course or colleagues. Rather, many findings resonate with issues identified in academic literacy research globally, underscoring persistent challenges associated with generic approaches that often fall short of enhancing epistemic access. The study concludes that there is an urgent need to assess the efficacy of academic literacy courses in fostering students’ disciplinary knowledge-building at grassroot level i.e. at the level of HEIs or disciplines. Such an assessment should consider not only the complexities of acquisition of academic literacy but also the broader global elements with transboundary influences, such as neoliberalism, massification, and the globalisation of higher education. This comprehensive examination contributes to ongoing discussions regarding the enabling of epistemic access and epistemic justice within higher education contexts. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, Centre for Higher Education Research, Teaching and Learning, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-10-11

The role of students in internal quality assurance: a case study of Namibian institutions of higher education

  • Authors: Nghikembua, Anneli Ndapanda
  • Date: 2024-10-11
  • Subjects: Uncatalogued
  • Language: English
  • Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/466395 , vital:76724 , DOI htps://doi.org/10.21504/10962/466395
  • Description: The interplay of the mechanisms such as globalisation, massification and internationalisation led to higher education systems across the world introducing quality assurance. As systems have massified, student bodies have diversified with the result that the quality of teaching and learning has become increasingly important and has drawn the attention of policy makers and researchers. The Namibian higher education system was no different in heeding the call to develop quality assurance systems. As this happened, calls to involve students in quality assurance because of their roles as “stakeholders” in higher education were also heeded, and in common with institutions in systems across the world, those in Namibia began to include students in governance and quality assurance. Research on student involvement in internal quality assurance with a focus on higher education institutions in Namibia is scarce. This study aims to fill this gap by examining the role of students as stakeholders in the quality of teaching and learning in higher education institutions in three Namibian institutions. Roy Bhaskar’s (1978; 1989) critical realism and Margaret Archer’s (1995; 1996; 2000) social realism were used to build a theoretical framework which allowed for the exploration of students’ involvement in the quality assurance of teaching and learning. Critical and social realism both draw on the idea of a “depth ontology” and acknowledge that what is available to researchers empirically is only part of reality. As a result, critical and social realist researchers aim to move from empirical data to explore a level of reality not directly accessible via the senses. In the study underpinning this thesis, this involved using inference to move from interview data and documents to explore a level of reality from which events and experiences of events (both accessible empirically) emerge. A case study approach was used involving a “cross case” analysis of the three institutions. Questions guiding the study aimed not only to explore ways in which students were, or were not involved, in assuring quality of their education, but also what constrained and enabled involvement. Ultimately the study focused on whether or not their engagement contributed to the enhancement of quality. As all the institutions in the study did allow students to be involved in quality assurance, the question was the extent to which this involvement was “meaningful” in the sense that it could lead to change. Insights derived from the study showed that although students were represented on various governance structures, their experiences were that their contributions to debates and the issues they raised were not heeded. Another significant way in which students were involved in quality assurance was through the provision of feedback on teaching and course design. The investigation showed that, although teaching and learning centres at the three institutions studied did use feedback from students to develop training programmes for academic teachers, feedback was mainly used for instrumental purposes such as personal promotion, an observation which raises questions about the extent to which its elicitation could lead to enhancement. The use of Archer’s social realism allowed for the identification of a number of constraints on the potential of student involvement to contribute to the enhancement of teaching and learning. One such constraint was the hierarchical nature of institutional organisations which led to student comments not always being treated seriously, sometimes because of perceptions of their “immaturity”. Another constraint was related to confused understandings of what constitutes “quality” in policy documents. The study recommends that policies and manuals on student involvement should be designed to provide guidance to staff and students on how they should be involved. There is also a need to train students on their involvement as well as interrogate the student involvement beliefs and practices. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, Centre for Higher Education Research, Teaching and Learning, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-10-11

The significance of neglected themes in the visual representation of Ulwaluko

  • Authors: Nqweniso, Sinazo
  • Date: 2024-10-11
  • Subjects: Uncatalogued
  • Language: English
  • Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/466060 , vital:76681
  • Description: This study investigates the significance of the neglected themes in visual representations of the Xhosa (also AmaXhosa) ritual of manhood called ulwaluko. The focus is on attire, cosmetics, language, food, games and music. These themes are part of the various components that constitute ulwaluko as a complex and significant practice amongst the Xhosa people, which comprises layered meanings, activities, and procedures involved in the ritual transformation of males from boyhood to manhood. The neglected themes are imperative in the education and socialisation of Xhosa men, and the formation of their identity and pride. Through ulwaluko, Xhosa men gain significant knowledge about maturity, cultured demeanour, marriage, family, human rights, and domestic and substance abuse. These teachings are essential in educating, shaping and moulding Xhosa men. Throughout the three decades from the 1990s to the 2020s, ulwaluko has suffered a crisis evidenced by injuries and deaths of initiates through careless procedures of circumcision, irresponsible nursing of the initiates and unfavourable conditions where the education of initiates takes place. This crisis has been a burning subject not only for journalists and scholars but also artists and filmmakers. The crisis dominates visual representations of ulwaluko in South African contemporary art. This study argues that even amid fatalities such as pain, injuries and the death of initiates, ulwaluko is still an essential institution that contributes to social practices and the moral fibre of society. Using Afrocentrism and the indigenous knowledge system as theoretical lenses, this study appreciates ulwaluko culture by interpreting researched data from an African-centred perspective. This approach produces African knowledge that recognises the African voice and affirms the centrality of cultural experience. The use of indigenous knowledge is to access the neglected themes in popular knowledge and culture by appreciating the Xhosa ways of knowing, being and understanding in contemporary African society. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Fine Art, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-10-11

The spatial extent, practices, and impacts of illegal solid waste dumping across an income gradient in Makhanda and Knysna, South Africa

  • Authors: Tombe, Yumunu Chenjerai
  • Date: 2024-10-11
  • Subjects: Uncatalogued
  • Language: English
  • Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/464875 , vital:76553
  • Description: The disposal of household solid waste (HSW) through illegal dumping has become a widespread issue globally, especially in developing countries. The problem has been exacerbated by several factors such as rapid population growth, urbanization, poor infrastructure, poor enforcement of bylaws, mismanagement, poor municipal service delivery, and lack of funding, resulting in most urban residents resorting to illegal solid waste dumping (ISWD). Illegal solid waste dumping by urban residents in most developing countries is becoming a standard occurrence particularly along roadsides, vacant plots, riverbanks, forests edges, and in commonages near and within human settlements. In most South African towns and cities, the practice of ISWD is an immense social, economic, and environmental problem. The practice has led to nationwide environmental pollution and has posed significant socio-economic and health risks to urban residents particularly the urban poor, who reside in areas where ISWD is more pronounced. Studies on ISWD in South Africa are mostly within metropolitans and cities neglecting medium-sized towns like Makhanda and Knysna where such information is needed to improve municipal household solid waste (HSW) management plans and policies. Using street surveys, illegal dumpsite mapping, waste categorization templates, and household survey interviews the study examined the spatial extent, composition, dumpsite sizes, as well as residents’ practices and perceived causes and impacts of ISWD across different income groups in two medium-sized towns of Makhanda and Knysna, South Africa. The results showed that more dumpsites were enumerated in Makhanda (155) than in Knysna (60), however, the occurrence, size and prevalence of illegal dumpsites were unevenly distributed, with most dumpsites being in low-income compared to high-income neighbourhoods. In both towns, most of the dumpsites were within open access areas such as roadsides, vacant plots, and commonages. The composition of waste within dumpsites consisted mostly of household waste (Makhanda = 42% and Knysna = 49%), garden waste (Makhanda = 37% and Knysna = 30%), and construction waste (Makhanda = 21% and Knysna = 21%). More residents in low-income than in high-income neighbourhoods reported dumping, attributing it primarily to poor municipal services (Makhanda= 59% and Knysna= 54%). Within both towns, environmental impacts of ISWD were experienced by residents from both income groups, with over 50% of the respondents citing visual pollution as the most serious impact. The health impacts of ISWD were exclusively reported by low-income residents with over 30% reporting TB and Rashes as the key health impacts. Overall, the research concluded that ISWD distribution, prevalence, dumpsite sizes and impacts were unevenly distributed across low-income and high-income neighbourhoods with the former disproportionately facing v an overall higher occurrence of illegal dumpsites and subsequent health risks. The occurrence of more dumpsites in low-income areas seem to suggest that factors like socio-economic inequalities, historical legacies, lack of education and awareness, and poor municipal services in these areas are at play and need to be addressed to mitigate ISWD. To tackle the problem of ISWD a collaborative approach is recommended, one that incorporates stakeholders, households and municipal efforts and improvements. Such solutions could include improved municipal funding to develop an efficient service delivery system, solid waste awareness campaigns in communities, and provisioning of bins along open access areas. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Environmental Science, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-10-11

The spiritual space of Mubende Hill in Uganda: rethinking “awaka w’ensi aw’omweyimirize, Maama Nakayima” as a symbol of ritual and spiritual performance

  • Authors: Nalukenge, Claire
  • Date: 2024-10-11
  • Subjects: Mubende (Uganda) , Rites and ceremonies Uganda Mubende , Spiritual practice , Ritual objects and ceremonial , Ritual in art , Spirituality in art
  • Language: English
  • Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/467050 , vital:76810 , DOI https://doi.org/10.21504/10962/467050
  • Description: This doctoral dissertation in art history investigates the dynamic relationships between ritual objects, rituals, spiritual performances, and their representations in specific cultural contexts. The main research question is: How do the ritual objects at Mubende Hill shape and communicate the meanings of the rituals, considering their performative contexts and embodied interactions? This thesis examines the ritual objects at the spiritual space of Mubende Hill in Uganda, which have various meanings and associations for different groups of people. It critically analyses how related objects are interpreted and represented by select Ugandan contemporary artists, including the 2019 history students of Margaret Trowell of Industrial and Fine Arts and the Uganda Museum. The difference between the above components is that the spiritual space, the artists, and the students represent objects as animate, whereas the Museum represents objects as obsolete. The spiritual space of Mubende Hill is a living space where people engage with ritual objects such as calabashes, clay pots, bowls, milk containers, and coffee beans in performative ways. Some of these objects are placed in various partitions of the sacred Omweyimirize tree at the spiritual space, and the objects become efficacious when engaged with through spiritual and ritual performance. In contrast, the Uganda Museum exhibits objects as inanimate, static, and enclosed in glass compartments. As such, the objects are rendered inactive. I examine the way the museum exhibits, frames, and labels these objects, and how this shifts people’s relationships with ritual objects. In contrast, I also analyze how selected Ugandan contemporary artists and the 2019 history students represent similar objects through their artistic practices, thereby opening up the meaning of these objects. This thesis addresses the critical need for a comprehensive reading and representation of objects within their living social and cultural contexts, a focus often overshadowed by museums. In trying to grapple with questions of representations of objects, I employed qualitative research methodologies, including extensive fieldwork, analysis of primary and secondary sources, participant observation, interviews, and photographic documentation The primary information was gathered from individuals at the spiritual space of Mubende Hill, Uganda, specifically the ritual specialists and the Balyammere, select contemporary Ugandan artists, and final year 2019 art history students from the Makerere Art School and select individuals from the Uganda museum. By comparing objects within their original contexts to decontextualized objects in museums and artistic and scholarly representations of objects, I analyze various art historical approaches to objects that grapple with issues of object representation, functionality, purpose, performance, and the movement of objects. I utilize this analysis of objects to critique colonial and contemporary neo-colonial approaches to ritual objects and develop decolonial understandings of objects that are embedded in personal experiences, stories, and narratives of text accompanied with visuals from the Balyammere’s object-ritual and spiritual performances. The study argues that ritual objects possess active agency, extending beyond mere aesthetic appreciation, and they are intertwined within their performative spiritual and cultural contexts. Analyzing these objects and their roles in rituals and spiritual performances allows us to deeply comprehend their meanings and significances as embedded in cultural, spiritual, and social fabrics. The study emphasizes a need for art histories that prioritize African-based scholars at the forefront of knowledge production and appreciate diverse, non-Eurocentric perspectives, suggesting a multidisciplinary approach to understanding art. A deeper understanding of the relationship between objects, rituals, and spiritual performances cannot only expand the knowledge in art history but also suggest alternatives to conventional object perspectives and practices, arguing for a comprehensive, culturally sensitive, and inclusive approach to understanding objects and art within their performative contexts. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, Fine Art, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-10-11

The stock market and the business cycle in South Africa

  • Authors: Pokoo, Patience
  • Date: 2024-10-11
  • Subjects: Uncatalogued
  • Language: English
  • Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/462801 , vital:76336
  • Description: The relationship between the stock market and economic activity has long been a topic for research. Several studies done in both advanced and emerging economies including South Africa before COVID-19 found stock market prices predict the cycle of real economic activity and some found it to be the reversal. Therefore, this Study seeks to examine this topic and will extend beyond the post-covid period exploring the relationship between the stock market (proxied by the JSE All-Share Index) and the business cycle (represented by the Coincident Business Cycle Indicator of the SARB) in South Africa. The study also investigates if the relationship between the stock market and the business cycle is homogenous across the three selected sectors of the JSE using a combination of the “financial accelerator theory”, the “wealth effect theory”, the “traditional valuation model of stock prices”, the “stock prices as aggregators of expectations”, and the “cost of raising equity capital”. The Econometrics models employed include time-series and panel cointegration techniques, relying on the ARDL estimation model and a Granger-Causality Test. The findings of this study indicate that a long-run relationship exists between the stock market and the business cycle in South Africa. The findings support the notion that the stock market predicts economic activity, and this relationship is assumed to be homogenous across the selected Sectors of the JSE (namely, Resources, Financials, and Industrials). Again, the Granger-Causality Test confirms the relationship between the stock market and the business cycle in South Africa to be unidirectional. It is recommended that since the stock market affects South African economic activity positively in the long run which is consistent with findings of similar studies done on the JSE, the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) must strengthen existing policy to ensure financial system stability and sustainable economic growth in South Africa. Again, the stock market being a leading indicator of the business cycle is something different. As a recommendation, we need to look at ways to use the prediction ability in a business setting. Investors and Portfolio Managers can follow trends of the stock market to forecast the direction of the future economy to make educated decisions to hedge their investments and diversify their portfolios against huge losses in crises such as the Financial Crises and the Global Health Crisis (COVID-19), however, with the caveat that the stock market does not always accurately predict the business cycle. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-10-11

The sustainability impacts and opportunities of reverse osmosis (RO) plants on the quadruple bottom line perspective: a case of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa

  • Authors: Mfihlo, Cwayita
  • Date: 2024-10-11
  • Subjects: Saline water conversion Reverse osmosis process , Life cycle assessment , Sustainability , Sustainable development , Social sustainability , Water governance
  • Language: English
  • Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/461907 , vital:76250
  • Description: Water scarcity is a pressing global issue exacerbated by factors such as population growth, urbanisation, and climate change. This challenge is particularly acute in water-stressed regions where a substantial portion of the world's population resides. Desalination, particularly through reverse osmosis (RO), has emerged as a viable solution to address this demand, providing a stable and high-quality water supply without overburdening natural freshwater ecosystems. This research focuses on the sustainability impacts and opportunities of RO desalination plants, specifically examining the Cerebos SA plant in Gqeberha and the Amatola Water plant at Bushman's River, to provide insights into their environmental, social, economic, and governance impacts and opportunities from a life cycle perspective. In addition to investigate the key sustainability considerations relevant to RO desalination plants to potentially augment available water provision sources in the Eastern Cape. Ten participants were purposively sampled from Ndlambe Municipality, Cerebos S.A, and Amatola Water. Semi-structured interviews and document analysis were used to collect data. The research design was grounded in the post-positivism paradigm, emphasising the incorporation of diverse perspectives and the search for valid and reliable evidence within existing phenomena. Three strategies were used to ensure credibility data for this study, these were triangulation, diverse participant selection, and audio interview transcription using Otter.ai. The results from the research offered valuable insights into the sustainability impacts and opportunities of the RO desalination plants from the Life Cycle perspective, although the respondents demonstrated a clear understanding of sustainability, the concept of QBL was less familiar to many. Furthermore, the respondents unpacked QBL impacts and opportunities from a life cycle perspective and augmentation consideration for RO desalination plants. Key recommendations included conducting thorough environmental impact assessments, transitioning to renewable energy sources, energy recovery systems, inventory management, and enhancing community engagement and workforce training. Despite limitations in scope and participant diversity, the findings fill a gap in the literature, offering valuable insights for stakeholders to enhance water provision sustainability. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-10-11

The use of aeration in constructed wetlands and the potential for earthworm and crop production

  • Authors: Cesler, Lia
  • Date: 2024-10-11
  • Subjects: Constructed wetlands South Africa , Breweries South Africa , Water Purification , Land treatment of wastewater , Sewage Purification Aeration
  • Language: English
  • Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/464440 , vital:76511
  • Description: Constructed wetlands (CWs) are used in a variety of industries to treat effluent for safe reuse or discharge. They can however take up large areas of land. Adding oxygen can increase treatment efficiency, as it is vital to many nutrient removal pathways, such as nitrification and aerobic respiration. Increasing efficiency can decrease the cost of treatment and reduce land area needed to operate a CW. The study aimed to find the best method of aerating wetlands treating brewery effluent, the potential production of worms and plants in the system and their effects on water treatment. The first experiment tested a hybrid constructed wetland, using small (1.0 m3) ebb and flow filtration additions to a horizontal subsurface flow constructed wetland against nanobubble aeration in a similar horizontal flow wetland cell. It was not possible to add replicates to the study, but findings prompted further investigation into the hybrid setup. Experiment two focussed on the ebb and flow filters within the hybrid system comparing the presence of plants and worms. The ebb and flow filters increased dissolved oxygen (DO) from an average inflow of 3.89 mg/L to an outflow of 5.70 mg/L and decreased the ammonia content of the effluent from 14.8 mg/L to 11.2 mg/L. Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris) was successfully grown in the system and was found not to affect DO. The addition of both Swiss chard and earthworms (Eisenia fetida) was found to decrease PO43- by 17.69 ± 1.36 %. Experiment 3 compared the previous ebb and flow filters to trickle filters with the addition of celery (Apium graveolens) to both systems to determine which filter treated the effluent more effectively. The ebb and flow filters performed better than the trickle filters, increasing the DO by 37.54 ± 0.06 % compared to 19.22 ± 0.06 %. Celery increased this change in both systems, to 44.16 ± 0.06 % in the ebb and flow filters and 30.96 ± 0.06 % in the trickle filters. The ebb and flow filters were also able to decrease the NH3-N concentration by 36.1 ± 0.2 %. This effluent could sustain plant growth; Swiss chard grew at a rate of 0.04 ± 0.02 g/g/d and celery at 0.2 ± 0.1 g/g/d. Ebb and flow filters are better at aerating brewery effluent and decreasing nutrient load than nanobubble pumps and trickle filters. The addition of ebb and flow filters to the CW treating brewery effluent has the potential to improve nutrient removal and provide an edible crop. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Ichthyology and Fisheries Science, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-10-11

The use of video as a resource for the development of L1 Foundation Phase Literacy in isiXhosa: a digital multimodal discourse approach

  • Authors: Schafli, Sasha-Lee
  • Date: 2024-10-11
  • Subjects: Xhosa language Study and teaching , Oral reading , Literacy , Functionalism (Linguistics) , Discourse analysis , Educational technology South Africa Eastern Cape , Video recordings in education
  • Language: English
  • Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/467105 , vital:76815 , DOI https://doi.org/10.21504/10962/467105
  • Description: Videos as a resource for African language L1 literacy development are strikingly absent from the South African school curriculum for the Foundation Phase (Grades 1 to 3). Furthermore, an overall lack of isiXhosa same language subtitling (SLS) practices in South Africa for videos poses questions as to the benefits and challenges of SLS for L1 early grade readers of isiXhosa. The aim of this research was to test, describe and analyse the efficacy of five isiXhosa YouTube story videos with SLS for the development of literacy in isiXhosa at the Grade 2 and 3 L1 levels. In this mixed-methods study, the five videos were exposed to Grade 2 and 3 learners at a school in the Eastern Cape in a quantitative two-group experimental design in a three-month intervention. This was to determine whether video exposure resulted in significant difference for learners' literacy, focusing particularly on word recognition, Oral Reading Fluency (ORF) scores and broad semiotic awareness between the linguistic and visual modes. The five videos were also analysed with a Digital Multimodal Discourse Analysis (DMDA), illustrating potential areas in which these five videos could assist or pose challenges to literacy learning in this context. While learners’ reading scores improved over the three-month intervention, nonparametric t-test results indicate SLS video exposure did not make a significant difference in learners’ reading improvements. Results from both methods were triangulated with cognitive theories of multimodal literacy and Mayer’s principles of learning with multimedia. The analysis highlights that while the videos’ design may be conducive for learning, the subtitle rate in the videos is far greater than the learners’ reading scores in this study or reading speed benchmarks expected of Grade 2 and 3 learners. This can result in these videos being ineffective as a resource to improve literacy in isiXhosa for this level. This research highlights the importance of the integration of multiple methods of analysis for multimodal resources, as well as the importance of subtitle rate as a system within a multimodal analysis for literacy research. Furthermore, Comparative Relations in Intersemiotic Texture is proposed as a useful system for examining learning resources. This research further suggests areas of focus for future video design in potential L1 Foundation Phase literacy resources for isiXhosa and other African languages. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, Linguistics and Applied Language Studies, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-10-11

Thermoluminescence and phototransferred thermoluminescence of annealed α-Al2O3:C

  • Authors: Elago, Fiindje Elias Muliokela
  • Date: 2024-10-11
  • Subjects: Uncatalogued
  • Language: English
  • Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/466688 , vital:76767
  • Description: Access restricted. Expected release in 2026. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Physics and Electronics, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-10-11
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