2694 research outputs found
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Performance Evaluation of Deep Learning Models on Brain Tumor MRI Classification and Explainability
No full textM.Sc. (e-Science)Department of Mathematical and Computational SciencesDeep learning models often act as black boxes, making it difficult to understand
their decision-making process. To understand how these models make
decisions, this paper proposes a framework involving two phases. The first
phase evaluates the performance of ten deep transfer learning models—ViT
Transformer, EfficientNetB0, DenseNet121, Xception, GoogleNet, Inception
V3, VGG16, VGG19, ResNet50, and AlexNet—for classifying brain tumors
using MRI scans. The models are assessed based on metrics like accuracy,
F1 score, recall, and precision, with EfficientNetB0 outperforming the other
models with 98% accuracy and a balanced precision and recall, resulting in
an F1 score of 98%. In the second phase, we use interpretability techniques
such as Grad-CAM and Grad-CAM++, Integrated Gradient, and Saliency
Mapping to investigate what these models learn within MRI images to make
classification decisions. The results show that both Grad-Cam and Grad-
Cam++ effectively identify the exact locations of tumor localization in the
MRI images. This result enhances our understanding of the specific locations
within the images where transfer learning models extract features to make
classification decisionsNR
Synthesis of Zr4+/Ag+ metal oxides modified zeolite for application in fluoride and pathogens removal from water
No full textMENVSCDepartment of Geography and Environmental SciencesPeople living in developing nations are challenged by acute water scarcity, hence they often rely on groundwater as their primary drinking water sources. Unfortunately, in most cases, groundwater is often contaminated with high levels of fluoride and pathogens, posing a significant health risk. This dissertation aims to synthesize Zr4+/Ag+ metal oxides modified zeolite adsorbent for use in fluoride and pathogens removal from water. The first section of this research aimed at optimizing the synthesis of zeolite from bentonite clay using the response surface methodology (RSM). The process involved alkali dissolution of calcined bentonite clay through ultrasonication, followed by hydrothermal treatment to obtain zeolite. The ultrasonication conditions were optimized by varying NaOH concentration (0.5 to 2.5 M) and aging time (10 to 120 minutes). Temperature (70 °C to 140 °C) and time (1.5 to 6 hours) were evaluated for hydrothermal treatment. The X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis were used to characterize the obtained materials, revealing that crystallinity of the obtained synthesized materials increased at higher hydrothermal temperatures and times. Furthermore, the XRD analysis indicated there was the formation of zeolite NaP phases at lower temperatures and times, while higher temperatures and times led to hydroxy sodalite mineral phases. Preliminary defluoridation experiments were conducted on all hydrothermally treated samples, with the sample prepared at 2 hours sonication, 105°C hydrothermal treatment, and 1 hour 30 minutes exhibiting a capacity for adsorbing fluoride of 0.19 mg/g hence, this zeolite was used subsequent experiments.
The second chapter of results presented the evaluated effectiveness of the synthesized zeolite NaP on fluoride and pathogen removal. Batch experiments were conducted to assess zeolite NaP's effectiveness in removing fluoride from water under various operating conditions while the well-assay diffusion method was used to study the antimicrobial potency of the zeolite. The optimum conditions for achieving maximum fluoride adsorption were identified as a contact time of 60 minutes, an initial concentration of 6.2 mg/L using a synthetic fluoride solution, an initial pH of 2, and an adsorbent dosage of 0.5 g/100 mL. Under these conditions, the maximum adsorption capacity reached 0.16 mg/g. Additionally, it was determined that the fluoride adsorption process followed a chemisorption mechanism, as evidenced by the fitting of experimental data to a pseudo-second-order kinetic model. Moreover, the adsorption isotherm data fitted well with the Langmuir model. This indicates that fluoride adsorption occurred on a surface in a single layer, with a limit on the number of active sites at any given time. Antimicrobial assessments revealed that zeolite NaP lacked
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potency against gram-negative E. coli and gram-positive S. aureus strains. In conclusion, zeolite NaP demonstrated minimal defluoridation efficiency and no antimicrobial efficacy. The chapter suggests enhancing fluoride adsorption, antimicrobial potency, and material reusability through the introduction of cations into the zeolite frameworks.
The third chapter of results focused on the modification of zeolite NaP by incorporating zirconium/silver metal oxides to enhance its efficacy in removing fluoride and pathogens from water. The Zr4+/Ag+ modified zeolite NaP was prepared using 0.5 M and 0.3 M ZrCl4 and AgNO3 respectively. The mixture of 10 g of calcined bentonite, 2 M of NaOH, and Zr and Ag solutions was subjected to ultrasonication for 2 hours followed by hydrothermal treatment at 105 °C for 90 minutes. The obtained material was therefore characterized using XRD, XRF, FTIR, Particle Distribution Analysis, and SEM-EDS. Defluoridation and antimicrobial potency were evaluated through batch adsorption experiments and well-assay diffusion method, respectively. Under optimal conditions, including a pH of 6 ± 0.5, a contact time of 270 minutes, an initial fluoride concentration of 6.2 mg/L, and an adsorbent dosage of 0.5 g/100 mL at an agitation speed of 250 rpm, the modified zeolite demonstrated a peak fluoride removal percentage of approximately 50%. The data fitted better to the pseudo-second-order kinetic model suggesting the dominance of chemisorption as the fluoride removal mechanism while adsorption isotherm data followed the Langmuir isotherm model suggesting that adsorption occurred on a monolayered surface for the Zr4+/Ag+ modified zeolite. Antimicrobial studies revealed a 15 mm and 12 mm zone of inhibition against the gram-negative E. coli and gram-positive S. aureus strains, respectively.
In conclusion, the synthesized zeolite functionalized with zirconium and silver metal oxides exhibited improved fluoride removal efficiency and antimicrobial potency. Further research is recommended to improve the properties of synthesized zeolite for better removal of fluoride and pathogens from water.NRF-Sasol and Water Research Commission (WRC
Implementation of low-cost housing scheme: a case study of Tshikota Township in Limpopo Province
No full textMPMOliver Tambo Institute of Governance and Policy StudiesThis study aimed to evaluate Tshikota Township in Makhado Local Municipality, Limpopo Province, for its low-cost housing implementation. The Reconstruction and Development Programme (ANC, 1994) included affordable housing to clear the backlog in the nation following the overthrow of the apartheid regime. There was a backlog at Tshikota Township that also needed to be cleared. For the study, both primary and secondary data were employed. While secondary data was gathered from the literature study, primary data was obtained through interviews. Ten people made up the study's sample size. However, the study used a purposive or judgmental sample for its sample. The sample was made up of local leaders, proprietors of affordable housing, inhabitants, and representatives from the Makhado local municipality's Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs department. The findings of this study expressed several positive views on the implementation of low-cost housing. Affordable and decent shelter was provided to residents, addressing the pressing need for accessible housing. The initiative alleviated overcrowding, improved socio-economic conditions, fostered a sense of community, and facilitated transitioning from informal settlements to formal housing. Moreover, the low-cost housing project promoted inclusivity and empowerment, positively impacting the overall well-being of the residents. The participants identified various challenges hindering the effectiveness of low-cost housing implementation. The study included a desktop analysis of other previous research on similar topics. The study recommended a comprehensive plan to improve the implementation of low-cost housing such as the needs assessment, collaboration to sustainability, transparency, financing, amenities, community development, architectural diversity, maintenance, and monitoring. The participants emphasised the importance of conducting a comprehensive needs assessment to ensure that the implemented housing projects are tailored to the specific requirements and preferences of the community.NR
The extent of entrepreneurship education in fostering entrepreneurial intentions: the case of selected Technocal and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College, Limpopo Provonce
No full textM.Com (Business Management)Department of Business ManagementMost political leaders place a great premium on encouraging young people to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset because they believe that doing so will help to lower the high rates of youth unemployment. To increase the number of Tertiary students who are interested in starting their own businesses or to lessen the number of young people looking for work, the government has been implementing entrepreneurship education programs to Tertiary Institutions in South Africa. The purpose of this study was to better understand how entrepreneurship education at selected TVET colleges can affect learner’s entrepreneurship intentions. A qualitative research methodology was used for this investigation. Structured interviews were conducted with 8 participants from selected TVET College, . The interviews were coded for easy analysis and analysed using ATLAS, ti. Results of this study indicated that entrepreneurship education can favourably influence TVET students’ aspiration to become entrepreneurs. This study showed that to develop students’ entrepreneurial zeal and form entrepreneurial Competency the entrepreneurship curriculum in selected TVET College needs to be improvedNR
Strategies for Enhancing Delivery of Beneficiary-preferred Low-cost Housing: A Case Study of Selected Rural Areas in Ephraim Mogale Local Municipality
No full textMRDVInstitute for Rural DevelopmentThis cross-sectional survey focused on the intricate process of delivering low-cost housing in
Moganyaka and Tsimanyane villages within Ephraim Mogale Local Municipality in South Africa.
It aimed to uncover the multifaceted challenges that hinder timely and satisfactory housing
provision. Sixty-six participants drawn from Moganyaka (31) and Tsimanyane (35) were sampled.
A questionnaire that contained closed-ended questions was administered electronically via
Google Forms.
Timely delivery of low-cost housing in Moganyaka and Tsimanyane villages was explored,
focusing on community preferences, satisfaction levels and viable strategies. Ethical procedures
were followed, following steps that included obtaining clearance from the University of Venda
Social Research Ethics Committee and securing entry for the study through engaging Traditional
Councils in both villages. Data collection was carried out using an exploratory sequentially mixed
method research design and involved pre-testing the questionnaire with entirely closed-ended
questions. The questionnaire was administered via Google Forms from a total sample of 66
individuals drawn from both villages. Data analysis included crosstabulation and frequency
computations, revealing insights into community preferences, satisfaction levels and challenges
related to low-cost housing delivery.
Demographic factors such as age and gender were observed to be playing a significant role. A
higher participation rate from Tsimanyane Village compared to Moganyaka Village was observed,
with a higher representation of females in both villages. This imbalance can be attributed to large
numbers of males who migrate to other provinces for work opportunities, resulting in a high
presence of female-headed households in rural areas. The age group distribution showed that
the majority of participants in both villages were youth, highlighting the importance of addressing
their needs and concerns.
Timeliness of delivery and quality of low-cost housing projects were also explored, with notable
concerns regarding project timelines, resource management, structural integrity and alignment
with beneficiaries' preferences. Available literature emphasizes the importance of addressing the
housing needs of low-income populations, especially in rural areas, and incorporating eco-friendly
practices and energy-efficient technologies to enhance the sustainability and resilience of housing
projects. Regarding the timeliness of delivery, the participants identified crucial criteria such as
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adherence to predetermined milestones, efficient resource management and streamlined
administrative processes. Efficient resource management, regulatory compliance, community
engagement, and sustainability were identified as critical factors in ensuring timely delivery and
high-quality housing that meets beneficiaries' needs and preferences.
Although there was agreement on good value and affordability, concerns about structural integrity,
compliance with building regulations, and the visual appeal and functional design of housing units
were revealed. In addition, there is a need for more attention to energy-efficient, durable housing.
Streamlined processes, community engagement, technological integration and innovation, and
risk management and capacity building for timely delivery of low-cost housing were found to be
important.
In conclusion, the importance of addressing the housing crisis for low-income populations through
comprehensive approaches that consider efficient project management, regulatory compliance,
community engagement and sustainability was highlighted. Thus, stakeholders can enhance
beneficiary well-being and contribute to a more equitable and just society.
The current study contributes to the field of rural development by proposing strategies for
enhancing the delivery of beneficiary-preferred low-cost housing, which emphasizes the need for
streamlined processes, effective resource allocation, technological integration, and community
engagement. Addressing these areas helps stakeholders improve the overall effectiveness of
low-cost housing initiatives and contribute to a more equitable and just society.National Research Foundatio
Application of ethics in the provision of municipal services in Makhado Local Municipality
No full textM. Admin.Department of Public and Development AdministrationAccess to basic municipal services is a major challenge in South Africa. Section 152 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, makes provision for municipalities to deliver basic services to their local communities. Local government plays an important role in ensuring that communities are provided with basic services. Research has shown that South Africa is experiencing challenges in providing basic services. This study focused on the application of ethics in the provision of municipal services in Makhado Local Municipality. The study was conducted at Makhado Local Municipality in Limpopo Province, South Africa. This study aims to evaluate the application of ethics in the provision of municipal services at Makhado Local Municipality and suggest recommendations on how to eradicate challenges regarding basic municipal services.
The researcher utilised a mixed research method in which both qualitative and quantitative methods were adopted. A sample of 284 participants consisting of traditional leaders, selected community members, municipal staff members, and ward councillors was selected using probability sampling and non-probability sampling techniques. The instruments used to collect data were questionnaires and interview schedules. The quantitative and quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis respectively. The main findings of this study indicate that the application of ethics has not significantly contributed to the improvement of municipal service delivery at Makhado Local Municipality. The main recommendations based on the findings are that decision-making on basic municipal services should be centred on ethics and that the municipality should aim to solve community issues in a sustainable manner rather than just following protocol.National Research Foundation (NRF
The Adoption of the National Traffic Information System (NaTIS) by the Citizens during the Covid-19 Pandemic in South Africa
No full textMCom ( Business Information Systems)Department of Business Information SystemsThis study examines citizens' engagement with the National Department of Transport services in South Africa, focusing on the NaTIS system. The central issue under investigation is the factors influencing the adoption and utilization of NaTIS among South African citizens. This study identifies and synthesizes several key themes through an extensive literature review. These themes include - the significance of user-friendliness and robust support mechanisms, adaptability to new technologies, working experience, awareness, trust, user preferences, and the role of social influence in technology adoption. Underpinned by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), this study employs a mixed-method approach, hence, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative methods. It utilizes surveys, factor analysis, and regression analysis to gather and analyse data, thereby, offering a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing NaTIS adoption.
The study provides empirical insights into citizens' interactions with NaTIS. Key findings emphasize the importance of - user-friendliness, adaptability to new technologies, and social influence - in promoting technology acceptance. These findings present valuable guidance for policymakers and public service managers, to enhance the quality of e-Government services in South Africa. The recommendations offered in the study can contribute to making public services more citizen-centric and technologically-acceptable.NR
Implementation of Universal Test and Treat in selected Clinics in the City of Johannesburg: Professional Nurses Experience
No full textMPHDepartment of Public HealthThe Human Immunodeficiency Virus is still a significant global health issue, affecting 38 million people worldwide as of 2019, with 26 million receiving antiretroviral treatment by June 2020. This study aimed to understand how professional nurses experienced and dealt with the Universal Test and Treat program in specific clinics in Johannesburg. The researcher conducted a comprehensive literature review, combining qualitative and quantitative research evidence. The search included keywords related to UTT, HIV, professional nurses, and South Africa. Data sources included peer-reviewed journals, reports, and policy documents. The researcher further employed a qualitative research design, using semi-structured interviews to gather data from professional nurses working in HIV intervention programs in Johannesburg. Various measures were taken to ensure the accuracy of the findings. The study received official approval from the Ethics Committee of the University of Venda and the Gauteng District Department of Health. A thematic analysis was employed to identify key themes and patterns in the data, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of the experiences and perspectives of the nurses. The review identified themes and sub-themes related to professional nurses' roles in UTT implementation. Themes included the benefits of UTT, opportunities for improvement, and the importance of nurse involvement in training. Sub-themes encompassed UTT guidelines, improved implementation, health information systems, capitalizing on successful UTT programs, continuous research, and outlining nurse roles. The qualitative study identified various challenges faced by professional nurses in implementing HIV interventions, such as lack of resources, stigma, patient adherence issues and communication barriers. The study presented the perspectives of professional nurses regarding their roles, responsibilities and experiences in delivering HIV interventions, shedding light on their motivations, frustrations and suggestions for improvement. Professional nurses are critical in UTT implementation in South Africa. The review highlighted the benefits of UTT, opportunities for improvement, and the importance of nurse involvement in
training and policy development. Strategies to enhance nurse engagement and support are essential for successful UTT implementation and achieving HIV care and treatment goals. Based on the study's findings, it concluded that additional training and support are needed for professional nurses to effectively implement HIV interventions, especially in addressing complex issues like stigma. The research findings led to recommendations for future actions.NR
Pastoral care interventions by untrained pastoral caregivers in Polokwane Province, South Africa
No full textPh.D. (Theology)Department of Human SciencesStudies that were conducted about pastoral counselling interventions have successfully
brought to light areas which were previously unknown. However, little has been written
about pastoral counselling interventions by untrained pastoral counsellors and the role
that untrained pastoral counsellors play in their pastoral counselling interventions. Some
of their interventions were acceptable but other interventions were outrightly
unacceptable, questionable, and a little deviant from the expected norm. This study seeks
to investigate various counselling interventions and services conducted by untrained
pastoral counsellors in the Polokwane Local Municipality of the Limpopo Province of
South Africa. A qualitative research approach was utilized to solicit the needed
information from various participants in this study to answer the research questions. This
study utilized purposive sampling. These willing participants were interviewed using semistructured
interviews. Focus group discussions added more value in getting more helpful
information for better analysis and interpretation of the findings of this study. The findings
that this study generated will add light to the body of knowledge and allow other
researchers to expand more on this subject or related parts of this topic.NR
Prevalence of drug-resistant tuberculosis and associated risk factors among patients in the Northern Region of South Africa
No full textM.Sc. (Microbiology)Department of Biochemistry and MicrobiologyBackground: Drug-resistant TB is a major global health threat, driving the ongoing TB epidemic and increasing morbidity and mortality worldwide. Currently, national tuberculosis (TB) control programmes are challenged by the emergence of drug resistance to more anti-TB drugs resulting in multi-drug resistant TB (MDR-TB), pre-extensively drug-resistant TB (pre-XDR-TB) and XDR-TB. Globally, about 465,000 people have rifampicin-resistant TB (RR/TB; 78% MDR-TB), where new cases contribute about 3.5%, and 18% among previously treated cases.
Variety of factors, including demographic, behavioural, clinical, and environmental factors can favour the spread of DR-TB in the community. However, the major mechanism of acquiring DR-TB is through the spread of drug resistance (DR) mycobacterial strains in the community. Individuals who have had contact with someone who has drug-resistant TB are more likely to contract the disease. As a result, assessing the major associated risk factors contributing to the emergence of DR-TB using data from the local setting is critical in order to take appropriate action.
Objective: The study aimed to investigate the prevalence of drug-resistant tuberculosis and associated risk factors among TB patients from health care facilities in the Northern Region of South Africa.
Methodology: In order to determine the prevalence of drug-resistant TB and associated risk factors, this investigation adopted a cross-sectional study design. The study enrolled 50 tuberculosis patients of age 18 years and older from healthcare facilities in the Vhembe region between August 2022 and August 2023. Patients undergoing active TB treatment were recruited as participants in this study. Data on demographic characteristics, comorbidities, healthcare-seeking behaviour, TB-related stigma, and adherence to infection control measures were collected using a detailed questionnaire. Allplex™MTB/MDR/XDR assay (Multiplex PCR) was used for rapid detection of M. tuberculosis and drug-resistant TB. To study the association between risk factors and development of drug-resistant TB, Rstudio was employed (a statistical analysis software package). The chi-squared method was used to determine whether the association between two qualitative variables were statistically significant among the study population.
Results: Among the 50 sputum samples that were collected for the study, 17 (34%) remained TB active. Of these, 13 (26%) did not develop any resistance and the remaining 4(8%) presented drug-resistant TB strains which were resistant to at least one or more anti-TB drugs.
There was an equal distribution in terms of gender. Four percent (4%) of the female cases had mono-resistant TB, of which 1(2%) was isoniazid resistance (INH) and the other one being 1(2%) rifampicin resistance (RIF). Furthermore, 4% of the male cases had Extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB), showing resistance to rifampicin (RIF) + isoniazid (INH) + fluoroquinolone (FQ). Having HIV infection (P=0.042), unemployment (P=0.023), non-adherence to TB treatment (P=0.042), smoking habit (P=0.023), history of contact with DR-TB patient (P=0.023) and history of previous anti TB treatment (P=0.023) were found to be significant factors for the development of drug resistance. Other factors such as age (P=0.127), gender (P=0.127) and education (p=3.246) were not significantly associated with drug resistance TB.
Conclusion: This study showed a low prevalence of drug-resistant TB in the Vhembe district with factors such as history of TB treatment, close contact with drug-resistant TB patients, non-adherence to TB medication, HIV infection and tobacco smoking, showing a significant association with drug-resistant TB. Hence, the study recommends that these factors must be taken into account in the planning and development of drug-resistant TB policies in order to work successfully towards the achievement of sustainable development goal of reducing TB by 80% before 2030. This study also highlighted that drug-resistant TB was more prevalent among the young and economically active age groups (20-40 years) than older individuals. Even though the prevalence of drug-resistant TB in this study was considered low, these findings highlight the need for health education efforts to strengthen accurate information to improve TB knowledge and correct misconceptions about TB among patients within the community especially the young age group.National Research Foundation (NRF