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Periodontal infection can manifest itself in many different clinical presentations. The aggressive form of this disease is frequently seen in the younger patient population referred for treatment to the Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry (TUKSD). This study was done to assess the demographics of aggressive periodontitis cases and the types of periodontal treatment methods provided to these patients, antibiotic prescription patterns and compliance with treatment. A chart review was conducted to identify cases of aggressive periodontitis in patients <30 years of age referred for treatment at the Graduate Periodontology and Oral Implantology Clinic, TUKSD. The diagnosis of aggressive periodontitis was validated by presence of characteristic radiographic bone loss at permanent incisors and molars. Exclusion criteria were deficient radiographs, and a medical history of systemic diseases that compromise the immune response. Twenty-two aggressive periodontitis cases were identified among 300 charts surveyed. All patients were 12-26 years old. The patient sample was comprised mainly of African American race-ethnicity, with no predominance of a sex group. Initial treatment with scaling and root planing, was done in 64% of cases with 36% dropout before treatment. Microbial plaque testing was done in 46% of cases, and 59% received systemic antibiotics. A combination antibiotic therapy regimen was often used in combination with nonsurgical periodontal therapy. Most patients did not present for treatment beyond the non-surgical phase, and some even before the treatment started. Because periodontal non-surgical treatment of aggressive periodontitis cases in the pre-doctoral clinic takes relatively long time, it is recommended that the treatment of these cases be expedited by referring the patients to the graduate clinic for all periodontal treatment including the initial phase. / Biology

The African elephant (Loxodonta africana) is an iconic species that is globally threatened. Of the total continental population, 37% is found in Botswana, the highest number and density of elephants in Africa. Elephant management in this country remains challenging and complex as the population estimates and trends calculated by government and independent researchers (from aerial survey data) differ and continue to be highly debated, both locally and internationally. To add more clarity and potentially resolve this ongoing debate, this study evaluates aerial survey data collected by the Botswana government from 1990 to 2012 and compares it with population demographic field data collected in 2019-2020 to assess Botswana's elephant population trend in a multimodal fashion. I used two different methods to evaluate aerial survey count data, the log-linear regression model and the Exponential Growth Space State (EGSS) model. In addition, I used the population demographic field data to estimate the growth rate. From the results, the average annual growth rate from the linear regression and the EGSS were both 6.17%. The growth rate estimated from the population demographics field data was estimated to be 5.17%. The age structure was comprised of the six age classes with a general increase from one age structure to the next as expected with a non significant decline in age class 3 (5-10 years) likely associated with the difficulty in differentiating this age class from the bounding age classes. There were no significant differences in the sex ratio (0.49Males:0.51Females). The age structure remained the same from 2019 to 2020, suggesting no evidence that overharvesting impacted the elephant population age structure in northern Botswana. Range expansion has also been identified with the movement of the elephant population into the southern part of the country by 2012. Analysis of count and demographic data as well as the identification of range expansion suggest that the elephant population is growing at rate close to the maximum growth rate previously identified for this species. Data do not support assertions that the population is negatively impacted through illegal offtake. Independent studies that identify Botswana's elephant population as declining have relied on comparisons that are made between data sets obtained from divergent aerial survey methodology and survey area, elements that confound such conclusions. Estimating population trends and the growth rate of an open population is complex, never-the-less, with population growth potientially derived from both birth and/or external immigation. However, demographic data collected in during this study indicate that the fucundity rate is substantial and likely a dominating driver of the positive population growth trend. Multiple measures of population growth (aerial survey and demographic assessments) also provide the opportunity for cross-validation of derived population trends. Therefore, this study recommends that the Botswana government incorporate population demographic data (i.e., age classes) into their existing monitoring protocols. Longitudinal data collection provides a critical mechanism for understanding population trends over changing environmental dynamics and should be continued. Efforts to modify or change these approaches must employ mechanisms that will account for and standardize for differences in methodology. / Master of Science / Botswana, a semi-arid country with limited surface water sources, has the highest number of African elephants (Loxodonta africana) on the African continent. This iconic species is globally threatened, and its conservation status is highly debated, making its management complex for Botswana. The population trends for the Botswana population, from the aerial surveys, are highly debated locally and internationally. Therefore, this study re-evaluated the aerial survey data from the Botswana government (1990-2012) and estimated the population growth rate, then compared the growth rate from the aerial survey trends analysis to the growth rate from the elephant population demographics data (collected in 2019 and 2020). The results from the aerial survey data from 2012 estimated a total population of 207,545 (CI = 185,774 - 229,316) with an annual average population growth rate of 6.17%, similar to the growth rate 5% estimated from population demographic field data. Range expansion of the elephant population has also been detected since 2009, with elephants now found in previously unoccupied regions of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve and associated regions in Southern Botswana. These results suggest the elephant population in Botswana is growing at a rate close to the maximum growth rate identified for this species. There is no evidence for a declining or stable population trend or indicators suggesting harvesting pressures (poaching) are suppressing elephant numbers. The study shows the utility of incorporating various population sampling methodologies into species management in Botswana.

Numerous models of IS success and technology acceptance their extensions have been proposed and applied in empirical. This study continues this tradition and extends the body of knowledge on the topic of IS success by developing a more comprehensive model for measuring IS success and technology acceptance within a government organization. The proposed model builds upon three established IS success and technology acceptance frameworks namely the DeLone and McLean (2003), Venkatesh et al.'s (2003) unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT), and Wixom and Todd (2005). The findings from this study provide not only a comprehensive IS success assessment model but also insights into whether and how IS success models are influenced by application variables as applied within a government organization. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were performed for instrument refinement and validity test of the existing and proposed models. Using data from employees of a local government municipal, the comprehensive model explained 32 percent variance. Four of the hypothesis were fully supported five were not supported, and four were partially supported. In addition, the results suggest that behavioral intention may not be the best predictor of technology acceptance in a mandatory environment.

No description available.

Translocation involves the movement of organisms, by human intervention, from one area to other suitable (receptor) habitats. In a conservation context, translocation can be employed to support species preservation, population restoration and/or for ecological research. Despite decades of internationally published research, translocation remains a controversial endeavour. However, due to continual degradation and fragmentation of natural habitats in the face of human development, translocation is becoming a vital component of conservation efforts. Prior to the development of an Exxaro coal mine in Mpumalanga, a population of an endangered Highveld succulent species, Frithia humilis Burgoyne (Aizoaceae/Mesembryanthemaceae), was saved from extirpation by means of translocation. Three receptor habitats were identified within the distribution range of the species. The largest part of the donor population was transplanted to sandstone outcrops of the Ecca Group (Karoo Supergroup), resulting in four subpopulations residing on geological substrates typical of the species’ habitat. The remaining portion of the donor population was experimentally translocated to two habitats containing non-native geologies, namely sedimentary outcrops of the Wilge River Formation (Waterberg Group) and (igneous) felsite oucrops of the Rooiberg Group (Transvaal Supergroup). A control population was identified, occupying Ecca and Dwyka Group (Karoo Supergroup) sediments, as a measure to compare the response of translocated populations. A monitoring programme, utilising a plant age classification system, was initiated in February of 2010 to elucidate demographic trends and to gauge the response of translocated populations to novel environments. Plant survival, plant growth, flowering, fruiting (representing reproductive response) and seedling emergence were chosen as indicators to measure translocation success over the short term. Furthermore, quantitative and qualitative entomological investigations into the identity of possible F. humilis pollinators, as well as the presence of pollinator species at receptor habitats, were made. A repeatable methodology for post-translocation monitoring and scientifically sound baseline data for future comparative purposes were successfully established. Initial results showed that F. humilis subpopulations replanted on Ecca standstones had positive responses to translocation: Subpopulations survived and all but one increased in size. Individual plant growth increased, higher reproductive output was evident and seedling emergence was pervasive. Positive responses indicated that F. humilis populations translocated onto typical geologies had the potential to establish and persist over three years. Knowledge of this early success is of immense value to the conservation of the species, as a limited number of known natural populations remain. Coal mining, targeting coal seams underlying typical F. humilis habitats, is also likely to remain a threat. The viability of translocating F. humilis populations to non-typical geological substrates has shown limited efficacy. Poor survival along with inferior reproductive response confirmed Wilge River Formation outcrops as poor receptor sites for translocated F. humilis populations. Rooiberg felsite outcrops also proved to be dubious receptor sites, primarily since there was a downward trend in seedling emergence over time, suggesting inferior germination conditions. Nevertheless, translocation to non-native geological substrates did not have disastrous short-term consequences for these populations, since flowering, fruit production and seedling emergence continued, albeit at reduced (or continually declining) rates. Potential pollinator species of F. humilis were not revealed through quantitative surveys of insect diversity. Qualitative surveys proved more efficient and accurate at pinpointing insect pollinator species. This study provided the first evidence of Apidae, Megachilidae (Hymenoptera) and Bombyliidae (Diptera) insect species pollinating F. humilis. The generalist nature of the plant-pollinator relationship, as well as the presence of generalist pollinator species at some receptor habitats, probably contributed to the initial positive response of F. humilis flowering and fruiting after translocation. Results from this study, however promising, should be viewed as initial indications of translocation success. The literature review revealed a plethora of literature recommending post-translocation monitoring programmes for five years to several decades. This study confirmed that successful establishment of F. humilis can be determined after three years, but that long-term monitoring is required to evaluate persistence. / MSc (Environmental Sciences), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2015

Translocation involves the movement of organisms, by human intervention, from one area to other suitable (receptor) habitats. In a conservation context, translocation can be employed to support species preservation, population restoration and/or for ecological research. Despite decades of internationally published research, translocation remains a controversial endeavour. However, due to continual degradation and fragmentation of natural habitats in the face of human development, translocation is becoming a vital component of conservation efforts. Prior to the development of an Exxaro coal mine in Mpumalanga, a population of an endangered Highveld succulent species, Frithia humilis Burgoyne (Aizoaceae/Mesembryanthemaceae), was saved from extirpation by means of translocation. Three receptor habitats were identified within the distribution range of the species. The largest part of the donor population was transplanted to sandstone outcrops of the Ecca Group (Karoo Supergroup), resulting in four subpopulations residing on geological substrates typical of the species’ habitat. The remaining portion of the donor population was experimentally translocated to two habitats containing non-native geologies, namely sedimentary outcrops of the Wilge River Formation (Waterberg Group) and (igneous) felsite oucrops of the Rooiberg Group (Transvaal Supergroup). A control population was identified, occupying Ecca and Dwyka Group (Karoo Supergroup) sediments, as a measure to compare the response of translocated populations. A monitoring programme, utilising a plant age classification system, was initiated in February of 2010 to elucidate demographic trends and to gauge the response of translocated populations to novel environments. Plant survival, plant growth, flowering, fruiting (representing reproductive response) and seedling emergence were chosen as indicators to measure translocation success over the short term. Furthermore, quantitative and qualitative entomological investigations into the identity of possible F. humilis pollinators, as well as the presence of pollinator species at receptor habitats, were made. A repeatable methodology for post-translocation monitoring and scientifically sound baseline data for future comparative purposes were successfully established. Initial results showed that F. humilis subpopulations replanted on Ecca standstones had positive responses to translocation: Subpopulations survived and all but one increased in size. Individual plant growth increased, higher reproductive output was evident and seedling emergence was pervasive. Positive responses indicated that F. humilis populations translocated onto typical geologies had the potential to establish and persist over three years. Knowledge of this early success is of immense value to the conservation of the species, as a limited number of known natural populations remain. Coal mining, targeting coal seams underlying typical F. humilis habitats, is also likely to remain a threat. The viability of translocating F. humilis populations to non-typical geological substrates has shown limited efficacy. Poor survival along with inferior reproductive response confirmed Wilge River Formation outcrops as poor receptor sites for translocated F. humilis populations. Rooiberg felsite outcrops also proved to be dubious receptor sites, primarily since there was a downward trend in seedling emergence over time, suggesting inferior germination conditions. Nevertheless, translocation to non-native geological substrates did not have disastrous short-term consequences for these populations, since flowering, fruit production and seedling emergence continued, albeit at reduced (or continually declining) rates. Potential pollinator species of F. humilis were not revealed through quantitative surveys of insect diversity. Qualitative surveys proved more efficient and accurate at pinpointing insect pollinator species. This study provided the first evidence of Apidae, Megachilidae (Hymenoptera) and Bombyliidae (Diptera) insect species pollinating F. humilis. The generalist nature of the plant-pollinator relationship, as well as the presence of generalist pollinator species at some receptor habitats, probably contributed to the initial positive response of F. humilis flowering and fruiting after translocation. Results from this study, however promising, should be viewed as initial indications of translocation success. The literature review revealed a plethora of literature recommending post-translocation monitoring programmes for five years to several decades. This study confirmed that successful establishment of F. humilis can be determined after three years, but that long-term monitoring is required to evaluate persistence. / MSc (Environmental Sciences), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2015

Doctor of Education / Department of Educational Leadership / Tweed R. Ross / The purpose of this quantitative study was to examine the relationship between the length of tenure of a superintendent and academic achievement as defined by the percentage of students who scored “Proficient” or better on the 2008 Third Grade Kansas Reading Assessment. To put this relationship into context, five other predictive variables were included as a part of this study: the individual’s total length of experience as a superintendent, the individual’s total length of experience in education, each district’s assessed valuation per pupil, each district’s percentage of students who qualified for free or reduced meal prices, and each district’s total student headcount. To gain the most comprehensive view possible, all 295 Kansas school districts in existence in 2008 were included in this study. The backward method of multiple regression was utilized to analyze these data. Before performing this analysis, the researcher first checked to ensure that the assumption of no multicollinearity had been met. From this analysis, all six predictive variables were retained as no relationships between them were found to be too strong. Following this check, the backward method of multiple regression analysis was performed. This method of multiple regression seeks to create the most parsimonious model, so two of the predictive variables were excluded from the final summary model based on removal criterion, the significance value of the t-test of each predictive variable. Results of this study revealed that 9.9% of the variance in the dependent variable, the percentage of students who scored “Proficient” or better on the 2008 Third Grade Kansas Reading Assessment, was accounted for by the predictive variables in the model retained. Further, multiple regression analysis tested the unique contributions of the four remaining predictive variables. Although included as one of the four predictive variables that had a significant effect on the percentage of students who scored “Proficient” or better on the 2008 Third Grade Kansas Reading Assessment, the primary focus of this study – to examine the impact a superintendent’s length of tenure has on students’ academic achievement – proved to have the least relative impact, according to beta weights.

Purpose: Drug-drug interactions (DDIs) place a burden on our nation and cause potential harm to patients. Awareness of potential DDIs is essential for safe prescribing. Nurse practitioners (NP) have prescriptive authority throughout the nation, however, little is known about NP prescribing habits. The purpose of this study was to identify NPs' demographic and practice characteristics, DDI knowledge and factors that influence this knowledge.Data Sources: A survey was administered to NP prescribers recruited from a national conference. Data was collected on demographics, practice and technological characteristics, and perceptions and knowledge of DDIs.Conclusions: Data from 305 questionnaires were analyzed. NPs correctly classified 31% of drug pairs. Nitroglycerin and Sildenafil (drug combination to avoid) was classified correctly by the most respondents (90.8%, n = 305); Warfarin and Gemfibrozil (drug combination to usually avoid) the fewest 15.7% (n = 302). A positive correlation was found between NPs in acute care hospital settings and DDI knowledge, indicating higher knowledge scores. Neither hierarchical linear regression model was significant at predicting NPs' DDI knowledge.Implications for Practice: Continuing education needs to be targeted to enhance NPs knowledge of potential clinically significant DDIs. The increased recognition of potential DDIs among NPs will enhance patient safety.

With the global economy in a crisis, debt levels are at an all-time high. The United States of America’s national debt exceeds $14 trillion and the South African outstanding gross consumer credit book is at R1,39 trillion. This pattern of debt levels is seen worldwide, with various adverse effects on the debtors and the economy in general. Although debt is an important mechanism in the growth of an economy, the amount of debt must be managed. Unsecured debt is a higher risk loan offered to debtors who cannot support the debt through any form of security. Default on this type of debt leaves the creditor with only a few options to recover the debt. It is thus important to understand the reasons for these defaults in order to manage the debtor and the risk associated with these loans. This study investigates the default rate and demographics of unsecured debt defaulters. A large study population is analysed to determine the total default rate and demographics of the defaulting debtors. The aim is to get a better understanding of the risk involved in unsecured debt in order to manage the credit vetting process more efficiently. Factors including loan size, number of loans, geographic distribution, gender and the age of debtors are studied to determine the profile of a typical debt defaulter. This is then compared to the non-defaulting population. The research findings confirm that there are statistically significant correlations between loan size, number of loans, geographic distribution, gender and age and the number of defaults in the population. The practical significance is, however, weak. It further proves that the profile of a defaulting debtors’ book is the same as the initial debtors’ book. A further challenge will be to incorporate affordability and other relevant data to understand the defaulting population and the reasons for default better. / MBA, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2014