An in vitro assessment of pharmacodynamic interactions between selected herbal extracts and anticancer chemotherapeutic agents
- Authors: Hwehwe, Nyashadzashe , Swanepoel, Bresler
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Chemotherapy , Herbs -- Therapeutic use , Antineoplastic agents
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63506 , vital:73383
- Description: Cancer is a disease caused by uncontrolled growth and spreading of abnormal cells to distant body parts. Approximately 19.3 million and 10 million new cancer cases and cancer deaths, respectively were recorded in 2020. Despite advancements in prevention and therapeutic strategies, cancer remains a global health problem. Cancer patients are increasingly seeking complementary and alternative medicines, of which herbal medicines are the most common form of CAM used by patients. Numerous in vitro and in vivo studies of herbal medicines in cancer have shown that they have antioxidant and anticancer (antitumor and anti-proliferative) properties. While concurrent use with conventional cancer treatments may improve treatment efficacy, alleviate chemotherapy-related side effects, boost the immune system, or impede drug resistance, it can also prompt drug-herbal interactions, and this may affect the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of the chemotherapeutic drug. This study aimed to determine relevant pharmacodynamic interactions with chemotherapeutic drugs and investigate such interactions' mechanisms. The objectives of the study were to screen the cytotoxicity effects of drug compounds, herbal extracts, and drug-herb combinations, to determine the ability of treatments to induce apoptosis, and to determine the most beneficial treatment. The cytotoxic effects of cisplatin in HeLa cells, tamoxifen in MCF7 cells, 5-fluorouracil in Caco-2 cells, and grapeseed, green tea, fermented rooibos, and green rooibos in all the listed cell lines were evaluated individually and in combination using the bis-Benzamide H 33342 trihydrochloride/propidium iodide (Hoechst 33342/PI) dual staining method. CompuSyn 1.0 Software was used to quantify synergism and antagonism. The mechanism of apoptosis induction of the different synergetic combinations, drug compounds, and herbal extracts was illustrated by quantitative fluorescence image analysis, specifically cell cycle analysis, phosphatidylserine translocation, mitochondrial membrane potential analysis, caspase 3 activation, and reactive oxygen species production using the relevant contrast dyes. Grapeseed displayed cytotoxicity towards MCF7 and HeLa cells (IC50 57.98 and 83.28 μg/mL, respectively). Green tea was only cytotoxic against HeLa cells at an IC50 of 91,92 μg/mL. None of the extracts displayed cytotoxicity against Caco-2 cells (IC50 values > 200μg/mL). If the herbal extracts had inconclusive IC50 values in the three cell lines subsequent experiments were conducted using 100 μg/mL. The results showed that most of the combinations were antagonistic but, some combinations had synergistic or enhancement effects(1:3 for cisplatin with grape seed or green tea and tamoxifen with grapeseed or green tea, and 3:1 for cisplatin with green tea as well as for tamoxifen with fermented rooibos or green rooibos, and all the 1:1 combinations of 5- fluorouracil with all herbal extracts) with a combination index (CI) < 1. Grape seed and green tea were found to induce apoptosis in the three cell lines. Assays that were conducted to detect apoptosis induction showed positive staining for phosphatidylserine (PS), activated caspase 3, and reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane depolarization. Analysis of the cell cycle showed two things; 1) that grape seed and green tea were apoptotic in HeLa and MCF7 cells only, and 2) the extracts of green tea and green rooibos, and the combinations of grape seed with all drug compounds arrested the cell in more than one phase of the cell cycle. The combinations of grapeseed and green tea potentially induced apoptosis in various manners but those with both rooibos extracts were unclear in all the cell lines. The results for combinations with grapeseed and green tea are promising and provide a basis for further research as combinations of chemotherapeutic drugs and herbal extracts may be effective therapeutic strategies. , Thesis (MPharm) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2024
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- Date Issued: 2024-04
An in vitro evaluation of the anti-breast cancer activity of Nigella sativa extracts and its bioactive compound in combination with curcumin
- Authors: Botha, Susanna Gertruida
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Herbs -- Therapeutic use , Radiation-protective agents , Breast -- Cancer -- Treatment
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63639 , vital:73571
- Description: Breast cancer constitutes 23% of all cancers in South African females. Curcumin and Nigella sativa have anti-cancer, anti-metastatic and antioxidant-properties and may be effective against breast cancer. This study focused on the effect of N. sativa extracts or thymoquinone and curcumin, individually and in combination, on breast cancer cells. An MTT assay showed that curcumin reduced cell viability by 50% (IC50) at 18 ± 2.63 μg/mL and thymoquinone (TQ) at 5 ± 0.95 μg/mL against the MDA-MB-231 cells. The IC50 values for curcumin and TQ were 35 ± 6.98 μg/mL and 4 ± 0.96 μg/mL against the MCF-7 cells, respectively. The IC50 value for the NSBE was determined to be 350 ± 55 μg/mL. The IC50 value of NSAE did not fall within the selected concentration range. Synergism was noted for combinations of NSBE with curcumin, and combinations of TQ with curcumin, against both MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. Two synergistic combinations per treatment per cell line, as determined by the combination index analysis, were chosen for further investigation. The combinations and individual treatments tested against the MCF-10A cells, were not significant, except for NSBE80:CURC20 combination. Curcumin had the most significant anti-oxidant activity; however, no link was noted between the anti-oxidant activity and the cytotoxicity of the combinations. The combination treatments induced apoptosis more effectively than the individual treatments. Caspase-3 dependent apoptosis was noted for NSBE10:CURC90 and TQ80:CURC20 combinations against the MDA-MB-231 cells, and the TQ60:CURC40 combination against the MCF-7 cells. The individual and combined treatments effectively reduced MDA-MB-231 cell adhesion to fibronectin, but not all reduced the cell adhesion to laminin. Based on these results, the combinations of curcumin with TQ or NSBE, have promising anticancer benefits against breast cancer. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2024
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- Date Issued: 2024-04
An Investigation into the challenges of translating mathematical terminologies into Xitsonga
- Authors: Sambo, Tintswalo Teressa
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Mathematical linguistics , Mathematics , Translating and interpreting
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63495 , vital:73382
- Description: Mathematics in South Africa is one of the subjects that is considered ‘difficult’ by many learners. The proof of this statement is reflected by the low mathematical pass rate in many South African schools. One of the challenges that has been highlighted by learners and teachers is that the language of mathematics is challenging. This implies that learners find it difficult to understand some of the mathematical terminologies and content that is being taught. The main reason for the challenge of grasping mathematical terminologies that has been cited by learners and educators is the language of learning and teaching (LOLT). Mathematics is taught in English in most South African schools even though many learners speak one of the indigenous South African official languages (if one excludes English and Afrikaans) at home and get to use and be exposed to English as the medium of learning and teaching only at school. While mathematics remains a challenge in South Africa, research shows that when home languages are used in a mathematics classroom, it enhances the learners understanding. However, it is not always simple to transfer mathematics from English to an African language. There are complexities associated with translation that include the lack of vocabulary in the target language which in this case is Xitsonga. The lack of terminologies in Xitsonga is one of the challenges that occur during the process of translation. This purpose of this research is to examine the challenges of translating mathematical terminologies from English into Xitsonga and to find the strategies that can be used to assist learners to improve their understanding of mathematics. As such, a qualitative research method will be used to select the mathematical terminologies extracted froma mathematics bilingual dictionary with the aim of examining the quality of the translation and identifying the challenges that have been experience by translators. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Language, Media and Communication, 2024
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- Date Issued: 2024-04
An investigation into the current and future state of the catalytic converter industry
- Authors: Hughes, Jason Michael
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Automobiles -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Catalytic converters. , Industrial management , Automobile industry and trade
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65031 , vital:74009
- Description: The catalytic converter industry plays a crucial role in enhancing the sustainability of automotive and industrial processes by mitigating the environmental impact of harmful emissions. Catalytic converters are devices that use catalysts to facilitate chemical reactions, converting the pollutants in exhaust gases into less harmful substances. It has become necessary to investigate the current and future state of the catalytic converter industry, due to the stringent emissions regulations being adapted across the world, including the introduction of alternative powered vehicles. The primary objective of this study is to identify sustainable strategies that could be adapted by the catalytic converter industry to ensure sustainability of the market. The study was conducted using a qualitative phenomenological approach. A total of 12 participants were chosen for the study and in-depth interviews were used as data collection tool to accomplish the objectives of the study. A thematic qualitative data analysis approach was taken to analyse and identify emerging themes from the collected data. As the industry is extremely dynamic, it becomes very difficult to update data for analysis purposes, therefore it becomes complicated to challenge the growth opportunities for the industry. It is therefore recommended to conduct thorough market analysis considering factors, such as market trends, regional variations, key players, and supply-demand dynamics. A deeper dive into the influences of the electric and hydrogen technologies’ effect on the catalytic converter industry, is key to identify potential opportunities and challenges associated with the move to greener transportation. The findings of this study established that the catalytic converter industry should adopt a multifaceted strategy, that includes regulatory compliance, technological innovation, environmental responsibility, and a willingness to adapt to shifting market dynamics. The ability of this industry to strike a balance between environmental stewardship and economic viability, will determine its future success. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2024
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- Date Issued: 2024-04
An online model for an agriculture retailer
- Authors: Jordaan, Jeandre
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Electronic commerce , Produce trade -- South Africa , Food industry and trade -- South Africa , Agricultural industries -- South Africa Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65061 , vital:74013
- Description: The advent of the digital age provided businesses with new opportunities and ways of doing business digitally. Digital commerce encompasses many aspects, one of which is electronic commerce (e-commerce). Due to the rise of e-commerce, the retail industry specifically has undergone a significant transformation, with e-commerce offering new business models to companies. E-commerce retailers like Amazon, TakeAlot, eBay, and Alibaba have successfully developed online stores and disrupted the traditional face-to-face retail trade. Brick-and-mortar retailers, once the dominant force, now find themselves in an increasingly competitive environment. The agriculture retail sector is no different and new disruptions and opportunities caused by e-commerce necessitated the agriculture retail sector to also consider e-commerce’s impact and implement changes where necessary. The COVID-19 pandemic further disrupted the traditional methods of doing business due to lockdowns and social distancing measures implemented by governments globally. COVID-19’s impact along with a changing business environment, inclined an agriculture retailer in South Africa, the Humansdorpse Landbou Koöperasie, trading as The Co-Op, to explore e-commerce as a new business model to support and enhance their customers purchasing experience. The aim of this study is to determine the factors that influence the adoption of an online model for an agriculture retailer in South Africa. A literature review on e-commerce and the agriculture retail sector was conducted, and from the literature a conceptual model was proposed, which identified the main factors that influence the adoption of an online model for an agriculture retailer. A questionnaire was developed and translated into three languages - Afrikaans, English and IsiXhosa - and distributed to customers of The Co-Op. The results obtained from the questionnaire were statistically analysed. After conducting correlation and Chi-Square tests the relationship between the identified independent factors and the dependent factor was determined. The study identified that the independent factors of: Acceptance of Internet Technology, Online Shopping, Delivery, Methods of Payment, and Product Range positively influence the dependent factor, the Co-Op Online Shopping and thus the adoption thereof. The study thus confirmed the need for an online model for The Co-Op. The study contributes theoretically by discussing agriculture retail and technology acceptance within the realm of the Technology Acceptance Model and the Theory of Planned Behaviour. The study’s practical contribution includes a tested hypothesised model that can be used for future research by other agriculture retailers. Additionally, research on this topic can be expanded to other agricultural retailers in South Africa and Africa. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2024
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- Date Issued: 2024-04
Analysing the influence of banking loyalty programmes on South African consumer behaviour post-Covid
- Authors: Jordaan, Ross
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Banks and banking -- South Africa , Customer loyalty programs , Customer clubs , consumer behaviour
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65075 , vital:74016
- Description: Banking institutions promote loyalty programmes that offer customers cost saving benefits. The research investigates the perceived loyalty programme benefits from a customer perspective. The research analyses the customer satisfaction and the effect the banking loyalty programmes has on customer behaviour post Covid-19. Focusing on customer retention and customer relationship management, banking institutions have adopted loyalty programmes as a strategic tool to enhance customer loyalty and satisfaction. The findings of this research provided valuable insights into the key factors that drives customer loyalty and engagement with banking loyalty programmes. This study used quantitative research methodology utilizing surveys and statistical analyses to gather and interpret data using simple random sampling from a diverse sample of banking customers from the Gqeberha area. A response rate of 50.5% was achieved in this study. The findings of this study underscore a pivotal realisation that banking loyalty programmes in isolation prove insufficient to exert a significant influence on banking customer behaviour in the post-Covid era. A contemporary approach is required to meet the evolving expectations and dynamics within the customer base. The study observed that digital transformation and strategic partnerships are a key determinant in shaping banking customer behaviour, hence the study advocates for a synergised approach, where banking loyalty programmes, digital transformation, and strategic partnerships operate in tandem. It is recommended that banks should understand the dynamics of consumer behaviour in the context of loyalty programmes, hence they can optimize their strategies to strengthen their position and relationships with their customers. Traditional silos of banking loyalty programmes must integrate and adapt to the current banking customer preferences, this holistic approach is not just a recommendation but also imperative for sustainable growth and resilience in the banking sector. The study will contribute to academic research and offer practical implications for banking executive seeking to build, design and implement effective loyalty programmes in a highly competitive banking industry. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2024
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- Date Issued: 2024-04
Assessing rural senior primary school natural science teachers’ TPACK: a case study
- Authors: Silvanus, Secilia Tulikefo
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge , Educational technology , Science Study and teaching (Primary) Namibia , Science teachers Training of Namibia , Information and Communications Technology
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/423902 , vital:72103
- Description: In today's world, technology has changed how people live and behave. The influence of technology contemplates a similar change in the education processes of teaching and learning. Many governments worldwide invest hugely in providing technological tools and facilities and training teachers to improve teaching and learning. The availability and access to technologies in schools seem to offer teachers opportunities to develop technological knowledge and integrate technology into teaching. Literature indicates that teachers must possess technological pedagogical content knowledge (TPACK) to integrate technology into teaching and learning processes effectively. However, other scholars have also suggested that teachers' TPACK develops and is shaped by many contexts. This study, therefore, sought to assess the rural senior primary Natural science teachers' TPACK. This qualitative case study was conducted with senior primary Natural science teachers in the educational circuit of Endola. An interpretive paradigm underpinned the study. The study employed semi-structured questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, focus group interviews, and observation to collect the data. The study used the TPACK as a theoretical and analytical framework. The study results showed that participants had a firmer grasp of subject content (CK) and traditional teaching methods (Pedagogical Knowledge - PK and Pedagogical Content Knowledge - PCK) compared to technological knowledge (TK) and technology-based pedagogies (Technological Pedagogical Knowledge - TPK, Technological Content Knowledge - TCK, and Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPCK). Findings support that the participants draw upon sources of Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) closely aligned with Content Knowledge (CK), Technological Content Knowledge (TCK), and Technological Pedagogical Knowledge (TPK) to integrate technology. The study included inadequate professional development, teachers' attitudes, insufficient hardware and internet connectivity, limited technological knowledge, time constraints, and restricted access to technology tools and resources as obstacles for teachers attempting to incorporate technology into their classrooms effectively. Furthermore, the data highlights ICT training and teachers' interest as enablers that motivated participants to integrate technology into their teaching practices. Therefore, the study recommends professional development programs focusing on providing science teachers with practical skills to utilise different technologies and address common technical issues. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, Secondary and Post-School Education, 2024
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- Date Issued: 2024-04
Assessing the management of water services in Fairview, Harry Gwala district municipality
- Authors: Mazibuko, Nosipho Faith
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Water-supply -- Research -- Management , Water-supply -- Developing countries -- Management , Infrastructure (Economics) -- Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63276 , vital:73243
- Description: This study sought to assess the management of water services in the Fairview community within the Ixopo town under the Harry Gwala District Municipality (HGDM). The study was further motivated by the need to ascertain stakeholders’ perceptions on the response to water shortage challenges in the Fairview community, assess Fairview community members’ knowledge, and identify opportunities brought about by water shortages in this community. The study was anchored on the service quality model (SERVQUAL) as the theoretical framework. The research design of the study was exploratory and used both qualitative and quantitative methods. The target population of the study consisted of ordinary members of the Fairview community and managerial staff at the HGDM. The qualitative part of the study involved eight (n = 8) managerial employees at the municipality. In total, 120 questionnaires were despatched, and 110 were returned, which gave a 92% response rate for the quantitative part of the study. The questionnaire respondents were chosen by random sampling, while the interview respondents were chosen by purposive sampling. The quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while the qualitative data were analysed using applied thematic analysis. The study revealed that there is generally a negative perception of the municipal responses to addressing water supply challenges and that the municipality does not always act promptly to water supply challenges. Perceptions of poor-quality service provision regarding responsiveness, reliability, assurance, and empathy were found. The findings also revealed that the Fairview community members are generally knowledgeable about water conservation. The study unveiled opportunities for addressing water supply challenges, such as mobilising funds from stakeholders to build additional water reticulation, harvesting capacity, and modernisation of water management, and recommends that the municipality immediately conduct public participation meetings and citizen satisfaction surveys to ascertain community service delivery expectations, followed by developing service quality standards and performance agreements with municipal staff to improve residents’ perceptions of the municipality’s ability to respond to water supply challenges. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2024
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- Date Issued: 2024-04
Assessing zakat literacy levels among South African certified financial planner (CFP®) professionals
- Authors: Pandie, Raaiq
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Zakat -- South Africa , Financial planners -- South Africa , Investment advisors -- South Africa , Islam -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65377 , vital:74097
- Description: Zakat is important in Islam as it is one of the five pillars of the faith. Muslim individuals are required to give a portion of their wealth to those in need, serving as a means of wealth distribution and poverty alleviation. Given the annual obligation for qualifying Muslims to pay Zakat, possessing or having access to the essential knowledge of Zakat calculation is important to ensure accurate payment. Although existing research provides insights into Zakat calculations, it does not address which professionals or individuals can assist Muslims with their Zakat calculations. Muslim individuals without the capability to calculate their annual Zakat precisely are susceptible to unintentionally making incorrect payments. To address this risk, access to professional Islamic financial advice within the South African financial services industry becomes important. In this industry, the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation stands as the highest globally recognised professional qualification in financial planning. CFP® professionals possess the potential to assist Muslim clients in the accurate calculation and payment of their annual Zakat. Given the lack of research attention focusing on Zakat literacy in South Africa, particularly within the financial planning profession; the primary objective of this study was to measure the Zakat literacy levels among South African CFP® professionals, recognising the significance of Zakat in Islam and the importance of providing Muslim individuals with the knowledge to accurately calculate their Zakat. A comprehensive literature review consisting of two literature chapters was undertaken to provide context and framework for the study. The first literature review focused on contextualising Zakat and Islamic finance in the financial services industry, an overview of Islamic finance within the financial services industry, and the nature and importance of Zakat for South African Muslims. This led to the second literature review, which examined Zakat and Zakat literacy. After conducting a comprehensive review of the literature, the Zakat literacy index utilised in this study was adapted from an Indonesian Zakat literacy index, integrating two dimensions of knowledge. The first dimension is the basic knowledge of Zakat, and the second dimension is advanced knowledge of Zakat. Each dimension of the BAZNAS ZLI consisted of five variables, namely general knowledge of Zakat, knowledge of the obligation to pay Zakat, knowledge of the eight Asnaf, knowledge , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2024
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- Date Issued: 2024-04
Attitude of physical sciences teachers towards the role of formal assessment of practical work: a case study in Buffalo City metropolitan district in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mzinyane, Lindiwe
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Physical sciences -- Study and teaching , Life sciences -- Study and teaching , Science -- Study and teaching -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64016 , vital:73639
- Description: The Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) for Physical sciences in South African states that learners should carryout formal experiments Formal experiments contribute immensely to the development of laboratory skills and scientific knowledge, as well as understanding science concepts and theories. However, research shows that many teachers do not support and/or guide learners in formal experiments. The aim of this study was to explore and understand the attitude of Grade 11 Physical sciences teachers in Buffalo City Metropolitan District (BCM), in the Eastern Cape province regarding formal experiments. The TALIS framework was used to unpack teachers’ perceptions and understanding of formal experiments and related practical activities. A qualitative approach within the interpretative paradigm was employed in which an open-ended questionnaire and face to face interviews were conducted as data collection tools. The sample comprised ten participants (4 males and 6 females) of ages ranging from 20 to 54 years The data collection process involved three phases that included a pre-intervention questionnaire, an intervention workshop and post intervention face to face interview. Most of the participants 7(70%) confirmed that they did not carry out all formal experiments as prescribed in the CAPS document. The results revealed that most teachers do not understand the purpose of practical work and /or formal experiments, which is a possible explanation for the negative attitude towards the formal experiments teachers hold. The study also revealed that some participants 4(40%) did not understand the link between science pedagogy and the nature of science. It was discovered from the results that negative attitude towards formal experiments was due to lack of resources, lack of knowledge to guide learners to carry out the experiments, lack of time, and overcrowded classes. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, School of Postgraduate Education, 2024
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- Date Issued: 2024-04
Augmenting encoder-decoder networks for first-order logic formula parsing using attention pointer mechanisms
- Authors: Tissink, Kade
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Translators (Computer programs) , Computational linguistics , Computer science
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64390 , vital:73692
- Description: Semantic parsing is the task of extracting a structured machine-interpretable representation from natural language utterance. This representation can be used for various applications such as question answering, information extraction, and dialogue systems. However, semantic parsing is a challenging problem that requires dealing with the ambiguity, variability, and complexity of natural language. This dissertation investigates neural parsing of natural language (NL) sentences to first-order logic (FOL) formulas. FOL is a widely used formal language for expressing logical statements and reasoning. FOL formulas can capture the meaning and structure of natural language sentences in a precise and unambiguous way. The problem is initially approached as a sequence-to-sequence mapping task using both LSTM-based and transformer encoder-decoder architectures for character-, subword-, and wordlevel text tokenisation. These models are trained on NL-FOL datasets using supervised learning and evaluated on various metrics such as exact match accuracy, syntactic validity, formula structure accuracy, and predicate/constant similarity. A novel augmented model is then introduced that decomposes the task of neural FOL parsing into four inter-dependent subtasks: template decoding, predicate and constant recognition, predicate set pointing, and object set pointing. The components for the four subtasks are jointly trained using multi-task learning and evaluated using the same metrics from the sequence-tosequence models. The results indicate improved performance over the sequence-to-sequence models and the modular design allows for more interpretability and flexibility. Additionally, to compensate for the scarcity of open-source, labelled NL-FOL datasets, a new benchmark is constructed from publicly accessible data. The data consists of NL sentences paired with corresponding FOL formulas in a standardised notation. The data is split into training, validation, and test sets. The main contributions of this dissertation are: an in-depth literature review covering decades of research presented with a consistent notation, the formation of a complex NL-FOL benchmark that includes algorithmically generated and human-annotated FOL formulas, proposal of a novel transformer encoder-decoder architecture that is shown to successfully train at significant depths, evaluation of twenty sequence-to-sequence models on the task of neural FOL parsing for different text representations and encoder-decoder architectures, the proposal of a novel augmented FOL parsing architecture, and an in-depth analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of these models. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics , 2024
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- Date Issued: 2024-04
Augmenting the Moore-Penrose generalised Inverse to train neural networks
- Authors: Fang, Bobby
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Neural networks (Computer science) , Machine learning , Mathematical optimization -- Computer programs
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63755 , vital:73595
- Description: An Extreme Learning Machine (ELM) is a non-iterative and fast feedforward neural network training algorithm which uses the Moore-Penrose generalised inverse of a matrix to compute the weights of the output layer of the neural network, using a random initialisation for the hidden layer. While ELM has been used to train feedforward neural networks, the effectiveness of the MP generalised to train recurrent neural networks is yet to be investigated. The primary aim of this research was to investigate how biases in the output layer and the MP generalised inverse can be used to train recurrent neural networks. To accomplish this, the Bias Augmented ELM (BA-ELM), which concatenated the hidden layer output matrix with a ones-column vector to simulate the biases in the output layer, was proposed. A variety of datasets generated from optimisation test functions, as well as using real-world regression and classification datasets, were used to validate BA-ELM. The results showed in specific circumstances that BA-ELM was able to perform better than ELM. Following this, Recurrent ELM (R-ELM) was proposed which uses a recurrent hidden layer instead of a feedforward hidden layer. Recurrent neural networks also rely on having functional feedback connections in the recurrent layer. A hybrid training algorithm, Recurrent Hybrid ELM (R-HELM), was proposed, which uses a gradient-based algorithm to optimise the recurrent layer and the MP generalised inverse to compute the output weights. The evaluation of R-ELM and R-HELM algorithms were carried out using three different recurrent architectures on two recurrent tasks derived from the Susceptible- Exposed-Infected-Removed (SEIR) epidemiology model. Various training hyperparameters were evaluated through hyperparameter investigations to investigate their effectiveness on the hybrid training algorithm. With optimal hyperparameters, the hybrid training algorithm was able to achieve better performance than the conventional gradient-based algorithm. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2024
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- Date Issued: 2024-04
Balancing an educator’s right to strike and a child’s right to basic education.
- Authors: Maluleke, Mongwena John
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Educational law and legislation , Children's right to education , Basic education
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66128 , vital:74400
- Description: This thesis examines how a fair balance can be realised between the educator’s right to strike and the child’s right to education. International and constitutional frameworks are analysed to uncover South Africa’s position on the two opposing rights and the various balancing approaches available. The study recommends a consensus-based approach to balance the rights of educators with that of the child’s right to education. It further proposes the establishment of a structured and organised forum or institution with the sole purpose of dealing with the rights of educators that compete with the rights of learners. , Thesis (LLD) -- Faculty of Law, Department of Mercantile law, 2024
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- Date Issued: 2024-04
Barriers faced by women in public sector leadership roles
- Authors: Khoza, Zelda
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Women construction workers -- South Africa -- Management , Construction industry -- South Africa -- Management , Leadership -- South Africa , Equality
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64599 , vital:73770
- Description: This research aims to analyse barriers that hinder women from occupying senior leadership posi-tions and to identify strategies that can be utilised to enable women to be appointed in these posi-tions at Transnet. The study identifies implementable strategies to assist women who aspire to be part of senior leadership and face barriers that hinder them from progressing to leadership posi-tions. The research adopts a pragmatic research paradigm, including quantitative and qualitative meth-ods, to explain the barriers associated with women advancing to leadership positions within the company. The data was collected through survey questionnaires and in-depth interviews. The analysis indicates that women are still under-represented in Transnet, even though efforts are being made to close this gap. Ineffective implementation of policies, due to lack of facilitating roles by HRM and line managers as expected, and lack of required support from the organisation play a significant role in creating barriers hindering senior leadership positions. The research findings can inform Human Resource Management (HRM) about the need for effec-tive implementation of policies and intensified monitoring to address the identified barriers that hin-der women from occupying senior leadership positions. Transnet should foster an organisational culture to build solid connections and engage diverse stakeholders to increase their impact and access to resources and drive positive organisational change. Transnet can leverage these find-ings to develop programmes and initiatives that support women’s career advancement and skills development. With these findings, Transnet should consider implementing strategies that provide flexible working conditions. Lastly, these findings aid Transnet in providing mentorship to women as a valuable leadership opportunity in the organisation. This study contributes to the existing literature on barriers that hinder women from occupying sen-ior leadership positions within organisations. The study also provides vital insights into the rolling out of women’s development programmes and the encouragement they bring. It offers implications for future research, policy changes, professional practices, and strategies to assist women in lead-ership positions. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, School of Built Environment and Civil Engineering, 2024
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- Date Issued: 2024-04
Barriers that prevent effective implementation of physical asset management in a ferrochrome smelter
- Authors: Mulaudzi, Zwivhuya Phumudzo
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Asset management accounts -- South Africa , Asset-liability management , Asset allocation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65263 , vital:74083
- Description: The systematic management of fixed assets, such as equipment, vehicles, machinery, and buildings, is referred to as physical asset management. Effective physical asset management helps equipment intensive organisations, such as smelters, to obtain the most value from their assets, while reducing the risks associated with their ownership and operation of these assets. Physical asset management ensures that assets are safe, cost-efficient, reliable, compliant with relevant regulations and standards. The primary objective of this study was to investigate barriers that prevent the effective implementation of physical asset management in the ferrochrome smelter environment. The researcher used the qualitative phenomenological approach to conduct the study with 12 participants selected for the study and data collected through in-depth interviews, to achieve the study’s objectives. The collected qualitative data was analysed and emerging themes from the data were presented. The findings of the study established several barriers that hinder or prevent effective implementation of physical asset management within a smelter environment. Issues, such as risk assessment, competencies, awareness and training were found to have a major impact on the effectiveness of the physical asset management system. The study offered recommendations, such as the generation of an asset specific risk management strategy to manage the risks associated with physical assets. Continuous training and development for the workforce remain effective in delivering the objectives of a physical asset management system. The recommendations proposed to the organisation in this study, can be used as a guide to help the top leadership in decision making and developing a future asset management policy, strategy, and objectives. Periodic management reviews are essential in addressing challenges relating to the physical asset management system. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
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- Date Issued: 2024-04
Challenges faced tourism small micro and medium-sized enterprises in greater Letaba Local Municipality area Mopani, Limpopo Province
- Authors: Sethwana, Mahlatse Victor
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Small business -- Limpopo (South Africa) , Business enterprises -- Limpopo (South Africa) , Tourism -- Management -- Limpopo (South Africa) , Tourism -- Limpopo (South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65412 , vital:74133
- Description: The aim of the study was to examine the challenges faced by tourism Small Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) and provide recommendations to the government and other institutions to support these enterprises. It is organized into chapters, including an introduction, literature review, methodology, findings, conclusions, and recommendations. The theoretical framework of the study is based on the finance gap theory and the resource dependency theory. The literature review in Chapter Two of the study provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges faced by tourism SMMEs. It highlights both internal challenges, such as limited managerial competency, lack of financial knowledge, and inadequate business management training, as well as external challenges, including the lack of marketing skills and inefficient use of resources. The study emphasizes the importance of improving managerial competencies, financial knowledge, and marketing skills for the successful operation and development of these enterprises. The study employed an explanatory sequential mixed methods design, which involves collecting quantitative data followed by qualitative data. The population for the study consists of tourism SMMEs registered in the Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment, and Tourism database, with a sample size of 100 tourism SMMEs selected through purposive sampling. The study utilizes an online survey for quantitative data collection and follow-up online interviews for qualitative data collection. The data was analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis, with the findings integrated through triangulation. In terms of the data analysis, the study utilizes descriptive statistics for the quantitative data and thematic analysis for the qualitative data. Most respondents in the online survey identified themselves as owners of tourism SMMEs, followed by managers and those with dual roles. Most respondents have an Honours degree or B-Tech as their highest qualification, indicating a relatively high level of education among the participants. Additionally, most respondents have worked in the tourism SMME sector for 11-20 years, suggesting a significant amount of experience in the industry. Guesthouses are the most common type of tourism business in the Greater Letaba Municipality (GLM), followed by , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2024
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- Date Issued: 2024-04
Challenges facing cooperatives in community development in Graaff-Reinet, Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Nxesi-Noxonya, Fundiswa
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Cooperative societies -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- Research -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65357 , vital:74094
- Description: Cooperatives are becoming prominent local economic development agents responsible for addressing economic and social problems experienced by communities in developing countries and sustaining livelihoods. Cooperatives in South Africa contribute significantly to poverty reduction and job creation. The purpose of this study was to understand the operations of cooperatives in community development in Graaff-Reinet, Eastern Cape province, so that interventions could be implemented to improve cooperatives' performance in the district. The study used a qualitative approach to enable the researcher to investigate cooperatives' challenges in community development and how these have influenced their operations in Graaff-Reinet. The study adopted a case study design. Individual, face–to–face, semi-structured interviews with 12 participants were conducted. Ten participants were cooperative members, and the other two were government officials. These participants were purposively selected because of their involvement in cooperative support programmes. The study's findings revealed that cooperatives contribute to an increase in household income, food security and job creation and improve the quality of life of members of cooperatives in the Graaff-Reinet community. The study also found that cooperatives can address economic and social problems experienced by communities, such as providing training and counselling to community members. However, the study found that the major challenges are limited training opportunities for members of cooperatives, insufficient funds and the mismanagement of funds. This study advocates for meaningful strategies that may be adopted to promote cooperatives as sources of income, namely, improved project management, self-reliance and commitment, funding, secured premises, the employment of young people and elders and the use of learning networks. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2024
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- Date Issued: 2024-04
Collective bargaining challenges in the public service sector
- Authors: Maleka, Reuben Mpono
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Collective bargaining -- South Africa , Collective labor agreements -- South Africa , Arbitration, Industrial -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66283 , vital:74474
- Description: The concept of collective bargaining is a very old employment relations concept that has evolved and developed over the years. The concept originated in the British trade union and other related labour movement,1 but it was Samuel Gompers, an American labour leader, who developed its common use in his country. Over the years the use and development of collective bargaining has spread over the world and therefore “collective bargaining has a long history, evidenced by developments in different countries, as well as by the importance it has played in granting workers a greater voice in organizations”.2 The Labour Relations Act, 66 of 1995 (“LRA”) was enacted with the view to facilitate collective bargaining3 between employers, employers' organizations, trade unions, and employees in order to set working conditions, develop industrial policy, and deal with other issues that are of common interest.4 In practice, collective bargaining involves demand and concession between parties up until a compromise can be found.5 Hence, collective bargaining may not be reduced to mere consultations, as it requires each party to not simply attend to and consider the representations of the other, but also sacrifice fixed positions whenever possible in order to reach a compromise.6 Notably, traditional collective bargaining is a mechanism to negotiate the terms and conditions of employment and is not a vehicle to facilitate joint decision making.7 The greatest net benefit from collective bargaining can be obtained when a system that promotes good faith bargaining and the efficient enforcement of collective agreements is in place , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, Department of Mercantile Law, 2024 , The concept of collective bargaining is a very old employment relations concept that has evolved and developed over the years. The concept originated in the British trade union and other related labour movement, but it was Samuel Gompers, an American labour leader, who developed its common use in his country. Over the years the use and development of collective bargaining has spread over the world and therefore “collective bargaining has a long history, evidenced by developments in different countries, as well as by the importance it has played in granting workers a greater voice in organizations”. The Labour Relations Act, 66 of 1995 (“LRA”) was enacted with the view to facilitate collective bargaining between employers, employers' organizations, trade unions, and employees in order to set working conditions, develop industrial policy, and deal with other issues that are of common interest. In practice, collective bargaining involves demand and concession between parties up until a compromise can be found. Hence, collective bargaining may not be reduced to mere consultations, as it requires each party to not simply attend to and consider the representations of the other, but also sacrifice fixed positions whenever possible in order to reach a compromise. Notably, traditional collective bargaining is a mechanism to negotiate the terms and conditions of employment and is not a vehicle to facilitate joint decision making. The greatest net benefit from collective bargaining can be obtained when a system that promotes good faith bargaining and the efficient enforcement of collective agreements is in place
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- Date Issued: 2024-04
Community perceptions on teenage pregnancy: the case of Kamvelihle Township in Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Authors: Mtakati, Faith
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Teenage pregnancy -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Teenage mothers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Teenagers -- Sexual behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63368 , vital:73263
- Description: Increasingly, teenagers in South Africa get pregnant while studying and this disrupt their schooling program. The above problem in many instances ended up affecting their performance at school and they drop-out of the school. This study investigates the community perceptions on teenage pregnancy in Kamvelihle Township. The study objectives are as follows: to investigate the community perception on teenage pregnancy in Kamvelihle Township, to contribute within the South African Sociological field with specific reference to Kamvelihle Township in the Eastern Cape and to come up with the recommendations with the view to addressing some of the problem in Kamvelihle Township. The research methodology employed in this study is qualitative in approach and it included amongst others, individual interviews using an interview guide containing relevant questions posed to participants. Research ethics protocol has been adhered to from the initial up to the last stages of the study. To supplement the above, relevant secondary sources were consulted ranging from scholarly journal articles as well as scholarly books including other available reading material. In this study, sex education has been used as a conceptual framework to understand the problem of teenage pregnancy in Kamvelihle Township. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2024
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- Date Issued: 2024-04
Community violence and mental health symptoms among adolescents in South Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis
- Authors: Jameson, Stacey
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Violence -- Psychological aspects , Adolescent psychology , Community psychology , Mental health services
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63868 , vital:73621
- Description: There is a global prevalence of youth exposure to community violence. This is notably pronounced in South Africa, where children and adolescents face elevated levels of violence. Existing systematic reviews have predominately focused on international contexts, leaving a gap that requires comprehensive analysis within the South African context to understand the situation in comparison to global trends. The objective of this study was to synthesise the available literature on adolescent exposure to community violence and its impact on mental health outcomes in South Africa. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of such exposure among South African adolescents, explore associated internalising and externalising mental health symptoms, and assess the extent of this relationship. A systematic search of electronic databases was conducted, encompassing studies published between 2010 and 2022. Eighteen studies focusing on adolescents aged 10 to 19 years, investigating exposure to community violence and mental health outcomes were included. Meta-analytical procedures revealed that South African adolescents face elevated levels of both witnessing and direct victimisation of community violence, accompanied by heightened mental health symptoms, particularly in depression and posttraumatic stress disorder. Although a moderate positive correlation between community violence exposure and depression was identified, statistical significance was not achieved. Subgroup analyses, to explore gender as a potential moderating factor was conducted. This study underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions and policy measures to address the impact of community violence on adolescent mental wellbeing in South Africa. These findings contribute to the existing literature by providing an understanding of the situation in the South African context compared to global estimates, offering recommendations for future research to inform more effective public health strategies. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Science, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2024
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- Date Issued: 2024-04