Anthropometric, physiological and biochemical parameters in relation to perceived stress and lifestyle diseases among correctional services staff in the Amathole Region, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Matshikiza, Ondela Innocent https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9326-6697
- Authors: Matshikiza, Ondela Innocent https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9326-6697
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Correctional personnel , Lifestyles -- Diseases
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22082 , vital:51981
- Description: Background: The prevalence of overweight and obesity has risen significantly in the past three decades, with marked variations across countries in the levels and trends in overweight and obesity with distinct regional patterns. Physical inactivity has increased in South Africa as the country develops, with increasing urbanization and modernization, technology, and low physical activities at workplaces. Correctional Services staff tend to suffer from chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes mellitus, orthopaedic conditions, high cholesterol, overweight, and obesity due to insufficient physical activity engagement. Aims and objectives: The study aimed to assess the anthropometric, physiological, biochemical parameters in relation to stress and lifestyle diseases of correctional services staff in the Amathole region, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 81 Correctional Services Staff in the Amathole Region, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The employees' health status, anthropometric, physiological, biochemical parameters, and perceived stress were assessed. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Data were expressed as mean +/- SD for quantitative variables or numbers and percentages for categorical variables. An independent sample T-test was used to assess statistical differences between males and female correctional service staff. Pearson correlation was used to determine the relationship strength and linearity of the anthropometric, physiological, and biochemical parameters. A direct logistic regression was employed to predict the indicator variable. Results: The results showed that just over two-thirds (67%) of the participants reported not being ready for exercise. Nearly 94% of the study population were categorized as either overweight, obese, severely obese, or morbidly obese. Approximately three-quarters (74%) of the respondents reported moderate to high- perceived stress levels. Approximately 40% of the population were at risk determined by the Waist to Hip Ratio. Furthermore, waist circumference, 43% and 77% of the study population were categorized as obese, male and female participants, respectively. Over three-quarters, (79%) of the study population were diagnosed with elevated high pressure, stage 1 and 2 hypertension, or a hypertensive crisis. A minimum of 18% and 17.3% of the study population were diagnosed with Pre-diabetic and Type 2 diabetes mellitus, respectively. An analysis of gender group differences showed overweight, obesity, and Body Fat Percentages were prevalent among females. The results further showed a positive increase in abdominal fat accumulation with age; thus, the Weight Circumference of the participants was significantly high. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was common among male and female correctional services staff, with a significantly lower Body Fat Percentage for males compared to females. However, upon further investigation, males' Waist to Hip Ratio was significantly higher than for female correctional services staff. Perceived stress scores for male participants were significantly lower compared to female participants. An analysis of staff member group differences showed that support staff's body fat percentage was significantly lower than top management and middle management groups. There was also a statistical difference in the Waist to Hip Ratio for the three managerial groups. More than three-quarters of the correctional services staff were classified with moderate (65.4%) to highstress levels (8.6%). Direct logistic regression was performed to assess the influence of several independent variables on the likelihood that participants would be classified as Obese. The results indicated that 80.2% of the participants were correctly classified before the model was conducted. Another direct logistic regression analysis was employed to predict stress among Correctional Services Staff found that age made a statistically significant contribution to the model, while the most robust predictor to report high stress was not getting enough exercise. Conclusion: Overweight and obesity are prevalent among Correctional Services Staff, putting them at risk for developing lifestyle-related diseases. Workplace health promotion is significant in preventing non-communicable diseases among Correctional Services Staff to reduce medical costs, increase disability incidents, reduce morbidity, mortality and improve work productivity. The role of physical exercise in the development of stress and decreasing obesity is central to addressing these issues in the workplace. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, Human Movement Science, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
- Authors: Matshikiza, Ondela Innocent https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9326-6697
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Correctional personnel , Lifestyles -- Diseases
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22082 , vital:51981
- Description: Background: The prevalence of overweight and obesity has risen significantly in the past three decades, with marked variations across countries in the levels and trends in overweight and obesity with distinct regional patterns. Physical inactivity has increased in South Africa as the country develops, with increasing urbanization and modernization, technology, and low physical activities at workplaces. Correctional Services staff tend to suffer from chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes mellitus, orthopaedic conditions, high cholesterol, overweight, and obesity due to insufficient physical activity engagement. Aims and objectives: The study aimed to assess the anthropometric, physiological, biochemical parameters in relation to stress and lifestyle diseases of correctional services staff in the Amathole region, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 81 Correctional Services Staff in the Amathole Region, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The employees' health status, anthropometric, physiological, biochemical parameters, and perceived stress were assessed. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Data were expressed as mean +/- SD for quantitative variables or numbers and percentages for categorical variables. An independent sample T-test was used to assess statistical differences between males and female correctional service staff. Pearson correlation was used to determine the relationship strength and linearity of the anthropometric, physiological, and biochemical parameters. A direct logistic regression was employed to predict the indicator variable. Results: The results showed that just over two-thirds (67%) of the participants reported not being ready for exercise. Nearly 94% of the study population were categorized as either overweight, obese, severely obese, or morbidly obese. Approximately three-quarters (74%) of the respondents reported moderate to high- perceived stress levels. Approximately 40% of the population were at risk determined by the Waist to Hip Ratio. Furthermore, waist circumference, 43% and 77% of the study population were categorized as obese, male and female participants, respectively. Over three-quarters, (79%) of the study population were diagnosed with elevated high pressure, stage 1 and 2 hypertension, or a hypertensive crisis. A minimum of 18% and 17.3% of the study population were diagnosed with Pre-diabetic and Type 2 diabetes mellitus, respectively. An analysis of gender group differences showed overweight, obesity, and Body Fat Percentages were prevalent among females. The results further showed a positive increase in abdominal fat accumulation with age; thus, the Weight Circumference of the participants was significantly high. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was common among male and female correctional services staff, with a significantly lower Body Fat Percentage for males compared to females. However, upon further investigation, males' Waist to Hip Ratio was significantly higher than for female correctional services staff. Perceived stress scores for male participants were significantly lower compared to female participants. An analysis of staff member group differences showed that support staff's body fat percentage was significantly lower than top management and middle management groups. There was also a statistical difference in the Waist to Hip Ratio for the three managerial groups. More than three-quarters of the correctional services staff were classified with moderate (65.4%) to highstress levels (8.6%). Direct logistic regression was performed to assess the influence of several independent variables on the likelihood that participants would be classified as Obese. The results indicated that 80.2% of the participants were correctly classified before the model was conducted. Another direct logistic regression analysis was employed to predict stress among Correctional Services Staff found that age made a statistically significant contribution to the model, while the most robust predictor to report high stress was not getting enough exercise. Conclusion: Overweight and obesity are prevalent among Correctional Services Staff, putting them at risk for developing lifestyle-related diseases. Workplace health promotion is significant in preventing non-communicable diseases among Correctional Services Staff to reduce medical costs, increase disability incidents, reduce morbidity, mortality and improve work productivity. The role of physical exercise in the development of stress and decreasing obesity is central to addressing these issues in the workplace. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, Human Movement Science, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
Chemical evaluation, in vitro ruminal dry matter (DM) degradability and ruminal biological activity of common browse tree fruits of Alice
- Authors: Sondzaba, Bavuyise
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Ruminants
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20882 , vital:46695
- Description: The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of species variations on chemical composition and in vitro ruminal degradability of Vachellia karroo, Grewia Occidentalis, Diospyros Lycioides and Ziziphus Mucronata fruits harvested from communally grazed lands in Alice, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The browse fruits were collected between February and May and analysed for crude protein (CP), dry matter (DM), ash, neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF), organic matter (OM) and acid detergent lignin (ADL), condensed tannins (CT), macro minerals (Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Potassium (K), Sodium (Na) and Phosphorus(P)) and micro minerals (Ion (Fe), Zinc (Zn), Manganese (Mn) and Copper (Cu)). There was significant variation (P<0.05) in chemical composition between browse fruits. The CP content differed significantly amongst the browse fruits, but all contained enough to meet the maintenance requirements of ruminants. Fruits from V. Karroo had higher (P<0.05) CP (182.26 g/kg DM), DM (896.50 g/kg DM) and ash (55.60 g/kg DM) contents compared to other browse species, while D. Lycioides fruits had higher (P<0.05) OM (951.60 g/kg DM) content than other browse fruits. Fruits harvested from G. Occidentalis had higher (P<0.05) ADF (513.27 g/kg DM), NDF (577.22 g/kg DM) and ADL (223.20 g/kg DM) content compared to other browse fruits. Fruits from V. Karroo had higher (P<0.05) CT (269.33 g/kg DM) content followed by Z. Mucronata (187.46 g/kg DM), while D. Lycioide (54.22 g/kg DM) and G. Occidentali (66.65 g/kg DM) had the same CT contents (P>0.05). There was a significant variation between browse species in macro and micro mineral contents. Fruits from G. Occindelis (43.93 g/kg DM) and V. Karroo (43.44 g/kg DM) had higher (P<0.05) Ca content compared to Z. Mucronata (24.06 g/kg DM) and D. Lycioides (20.06 g/kg DM). Ziziphus Muronata had higher (P<0.05) P (1.96 g/kg DM) content than other browse fruits. Fruits form V.karroo had higher Mg (4.75 g/kg DM), K (11.50 g/kg DM) and Na 3888 g/kg DM) content compared to other browse species. Fruits from V. Karroo showed significantly higher micro mineral content compared to other species. In terms of dry matter degradability (DMD), incubation time had an apparent effect on degradability of browse fruits except at 4 hours. The DM degradability increased with the increase of time and after 48 hours DMD was found to be satisfactory since it was above the prescribed 40 to 50 percent. However, the presence of condensed tannins had an effect on ruminal degradability of browse fruits. It was concluded that browse fruits have the potential to be used as protein supplements during the dry season since they contain moderate levels of crude protein. However, caution should be taken when feeding these browse fruits since they contain condensed tannins that affect rumen degradability. , Thesis (MSc) (Chemistry) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
- Authors: Sondzaba, Bavuyise
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Ruminants
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20882 , vital:46695
- Description: The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of species variations on chemical composition and in vitro ruminal degradability of Vachellia karroo, Grewia Occidentalis, Diospyros Lycioides and Ziziphus Mucronata fruits harvested from communally grazed lands in Alice, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The browse fruits were collected between February and May and analysed for crude protein (CP), dry matter (DM), ash, neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF), organic matter (OM) and acid detergent lignin (ADL), condensed tannins (CT), macro minerals (Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Potassium (K), Sodium (Na) and Phosphorus(P)) and micro minerals (Ion (Fe), Zinc (Zn), Manganese (Mn) and Copper (Cu)). There was significant variation (P<0.05) in chemical composition between browse fruits. The CP content differed significantly amongst the browse fruits, but all contained enough to meet the maintenance requirements of ruminants. Fruits from V. Karroo had higher (P<0.05) CP (182.26 g/kg DM), DM (896.50 g/kg DM) and ash (55.60 g/kg DM) contents compared to other browse species, while D. Lycioides fruits had higher (P<0.05) OM (951.60 g/kg DM) content than other browse fruits. Fruits harvested from G. Occidentalis had higher (P<0.05) ADF (513.27 g/kg DM), NDF (577.22 g/kg DM) and ADL (223.20 g/kg DM) content compared to other browse fruits. Fruits from V. Karroo had higher (P<0.05) CT (269.33 g/kg DM) content followed by Z. Mucronata (187.46 g/kg DM), while D. Lycioide (54.22 g/kg DM) and G. Occidentali (66.65 g/kg DM) had the same CT contents (P>0.05). There was a significant variation between browse species in macro and micro mineral contents. Fruits from G. Occindelis (43.93 g/kg DM) and V. Karroo (43.44 g/kg DM) had higher (P<0.05) Ca content compared to Z. Mucronata (24.06 g/kg DM) and D. Lycioides (20.06 g/kg DM). Ziziphus Muronata had higher (P<0.05) P (1.96 g/kg DM) content than other browse fruits. Fruits form V.karroo had higher Mg (4.75 g/kg DM), K (11.50 g/kg DM) and Na 3888 g/kg DM) content compared to other browse species. Fruits from V. Karroo showed significantly higher micro mineral content compared to other species. In terms of dry matter degradability (DMD), incubation time had an apparent effect on degradability of browse fruits except at 4 hours. The DM degradability increased with the increase of time and after 48 hours DMD was found to be satisfactory since it was above the prescribed 40 to 50 percent. However, the presence of condensed tannins had an effect on ruminal degradability of browse fruits. It was concluded that browse fruits have the potential to be used as protein supplements during the dry season since they contain moderate levels of crude protein. However, caution should be taken when feeding these browse fruits since they contain condensed tannins that affect rumen degradability. , Thesis (MSc) (Chemistry) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
Cost cutting measures for the maintenance of hospital medical equipment in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Mabentsela, Bonga https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9259-849X
- Authors: Mabentsela, Bonga https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9259-849X
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Finance, Public , Health services administration , Maps
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20094 , vital:45152
- Description: The Eastern Cape Department of Health is located in Bisho, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa and about 88 percent of the EC population is serviced by the public health sector. Most of the facilities are situated in remote areas and for the maintenance of medical equipment they rely on the service of the few private equipment vendors that are situated in two cities, East London and Port Elizabeth and in some instances these vendors are located in Gauteng province. The location of vendors makes it difficult and impossible for these medical equipment vendors to render the acceptable service to the Department. This study was undertaken to systematically study the cost cutting measures of medical equipment department of health, Eastern Cape. A quantitative method approach was used using exploratory and descriptive research design during the 2019-20 financial year (April 2019 to March 2020). The sample for this study was limited to managers who have the ability to provide the information about the acquisition, maintenance and management of medical equipment. The total sample size was 100. The major finding was that outsourcing is not feasible. The respondents preferred insourcing, standardisation of medical equipment and procuring equipment with comprehensive maintenance contracts. The findings from the study were that the Department will cut costs associated with medical equipment if maintenance of medical equipment is in-sourced, equipment is standardized and equipment is procured with maintenance contracts. The study recommended that the Department should revisit some of its medical equipment maintenance strategies and draw up comprehensive interventions to reduce costs associated with maintenance of medical equipment and improve service delivery in the Department. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
- Authors: Mabentsela, Bonga https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9259-849X
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Finance, Public , Health services administration , Maps
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20094 , vital:45152
- Description: The Eastern Cape Department of Health is located in Bisho, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa and about 88 percent of the EC population is serviced by the public health sector. Most of the facilities are situated in remote areas and for the maintenance of medical equipment they rely on the service of the few private equipment vendors that are situated in two cities, East London and Port Elizabeth and in some instances these vendors are located in Gauteng province. The location of vendors makes it difficult and impossible for these medical equipment vendors to render the acceptable service to the Department. This study was undertaken to systematically study the cost cutting measures of medical equipment department of health, Eastern Cape. A quantitative method approach was used using exploratory and descriptive research design during the 2019-20 financial year (April 2019 to March 2020). The sample for this study was limited to managers who have the ability to provide the information about the acquisition, maintenance and management of medical equipment. The total sample size was 100. The major finding was that outsourcing is not feasible. The respondents preferred insourcing, standardisation of medical equipment and procuring equipment with comprehensive maintenance contracts. The findings from the study were that the Department will cut costs associated with medical equipment if maintenance of medical equipment is in-sourced, equipment is standardized and equipment is procured with maintenance contracts. The study recommended that the Department should revisit some of its medical equipment maintenance strategies and draw up comprehensive interventions to reduce costs associated with maintenance of medical equipment and improve service delivery in the Department. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
Implication of family therapy in the South African context: a case of New Brighton, Port Elizabeth.
- Authors: Mncono, Noxolo Alicia
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Family psychotherapy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21081 , vital:46969
- Description: The objectivity of this investigation layered on the establishment of the implication of family therapy in the South African context in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth. The aims of the study were (i) To determine the traditional ways of dealing with physical, emotional and psychosocial problems in IsiXhosa speaking communities in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth and, (ii) To explore the influence of traditional beliefs in the process of family therapy amongst IsiXhosa speaking communities in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth. The interest of this study originates from the side lining of the domination of Western European- oriented healing models which tends to question the infiltration of African therapeutic interventions focusing on the Xhosa cultural practices in facing human adversities specifically in New Brighton. A qualitative research design was utilized to collect data through semi-structured interviews, focus group and observation with an aim to justify the above mentioned objectives. The sample size consisted of 16 participants i.e. 11 family elders and 5 traditional healers as a result, data obtained was analysed through thematic analysis. This study investigated the influence of culture on health behaviours of isiXhosa speaking communities through the guidance of the PEN-3 cultural framework by Collins Airhihenbuwa. Furthermore, amaXhosa consult God (through prayer and attending church), ancestors (through rituals and cultural practises), family elders (for advice and guidance) and resort to traditional healers (for physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual problems). Moreover, amaXhosa routinely conduct family meetings consisting of extended families and apply their wisdom and experience in the provision of a solution to family related problems. Based on the overall analysis and identified gaps within this field of study it is recommended that an extensive research should emphasise on ways of the collaboration of African and Western perspectives on psychological counselling. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Psychology) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
- Authors: Mncono, Noxolo Alicia
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Family psychotherapy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21081 , vital:46969
- Description: The objectivity of this investigation layered on the establishment of the implication of family therapy in the South African context in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth. The aims of the study were (i) To determine the traditional ways of dealing with physical, emotional and psychosocial problems in IsiXhosa speaking communities in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth and, (ii) To explore the influence of traditional beliefs in the process of family therapy amongst IsiXhosa speaking communities in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth. The interest of this study originates from the side lining of the domination of Western European- oriented healing models which tends to question the infiltration of African therapeutic interventions focusing on the Xhosa cultural practices in facing human adversities specifically in New Brighton. A qualitative research design was utilized to collect data through semi-structured interviews, focus group and observation with an aim to justify the above mentioned objectives. The sample size consisted of 16 participants i.e. 11 family elders and 5 traditional healers as a result, data obtained was analysed through thematic analysis. This study investigated the influence of culture on health behaviours of isiXhosa speaking communities through the guidance of the PEN-3 cultural framework by Collins Airhihenbuwa. Furthermore, amaXhosa consult God (through prayer and attending church), ancestors (through rituals and cultural practises), family elders (for advice and guidance) and resort to traditional healers (for physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual problems). Moreover, amaXhosa routinely conduct family meetings consisting of extended families and apply their wisdom and experience in the provision of a solution to family related problems. Based on the overall analysis and identified gaps within this field of study it is recommended that an extensive research should emphasise on ways of the collaboration of African and Western perspectives on psychological counselling. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Psychology) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
Investigating communal farmer’s perceptions on production practices and evaluating pre-slaughter responsiveness of extensively reared Boran and Nguni steers
- Guzi, Anelisa https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5568-3396
- Authors: Guzi, Anelisa https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5568-3396
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Boran cattle , Nguni cattle , Cattle breeds
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22721 , vital:52672
- Description: This study's overall objective was to investigate communal farmers' perceptions on production practices and evaluate pre-slaughter responsiveness of extensively reared Boran and Nguni steers. On objective one farmers’ knowledge and perceptions on cattle breeds, management, and marketing channels in selected villages of Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa were evaluated. Interviews were conducted using a structured questionnaire divided into demographic information and relevant cattle production practices, following a snowball technique to select 101 cattle-keeping households from Gaga, Ntselamanzi, and Ncerha villages. Most of the interviewed cattle farmers were males (65percent), in the age range of 40-60 years, with a primary-matric educational level. Among others, they highlighted financial security (47percent) and traditional ceremonies (26percent) as the reasons for keeping cattle. Most dominant in their herds were the Boran (49percent) and crossbreds (23percent) reared extensively with some supplementation (nutritional and medicinal). Their breed selection was based on disease and tick tolerance, temperament, and product (milk and meat) quality. It was noted that most of the interviewed cattle owners have the basic knowledge of good management practices, breed differences, and marketing chains. They related to low productivity to diseases, lack of knowledge, and poor resources. On the second objective pre-slaughter blood-based stress indicators and their subsequent effects were evaluated on beef quality of extensively reared Nguni and Boran steers . Twenty steers (10 Nguni and 10 Boran) aged 18 months were divided into two groups (with 5 of each breed per group) and transported from the University of Fort Hare Honeydale farm to the East London abattoir in the morning and afternoon trips. Upon arrival at the abattoir, the steers were held in lairage units for 24 hours (group 1) and 16 hours (group 2) until slaughter. Blood samples were drawn using a needle and vacutainer tubes from each steer's jugular vein at the farm before transportation, upon arrival at the abattoir, and during slaughter to perform cortisol, glucose, and routine haematological analysis. M. longissimus dorsi samples were harvested on the left side of each carcass to measure the meat quality attributes. Interactions between the observed production-stage activities, breeds, and physiological changes of these steers were recognized; with cortisol and glucose increasing (P ≤ 0.05) during transportation (4.15±0.46 ng/mL and 5.35±0.46nmol/L respectively) and also with farm group 1 showing higher cortisol (42.62±14.47 ng/mL) than the second group. Furthermore, all steers that were in slaughter group 1 showed less cortisol (101.49±14.47 ng/mL) and glucose (6.50±14.47 nmol/L) levels than those in group 2. In addition, Boran steers had higher packed cell volume, erythrocyte count, and haemoglobin values (33.27±0.54 percent, 7.66±0.19 106 μL, and 11.15±0.16 g/dl respectively) compared to Nguni steers in all production-stages. Later in the experiment, the effect of breed type, production stage activities (farm handling, transportation, and lairage duration), and stress responsiveness on some meat quality parameters (pH, lightness (L*), redness (a*), yellowness (b*), hue, Chroma, thawing and cooking loss, and tenderness) collected from the steers were measured. It was observed that the group lairaged for 16 hours produced the highest L* value (36.25±0.88) compared to those lairaged for 24 hours. As for the b* and hue of the meat, there were positive interactions between the breed type and the production stages (p<0.05). Lastly, cooking loss and tenderness were significantly affected by the breed type in all groups, with Nguni having the most tender meat (24.06±1.39 percent) and less cooking loss (16.92±1.33 percent) than Boran breeds. Therefore, the production stage conditions and breed type influenced some physiological stress-indicators and meat quality of Boran and Nguni steers raised on natural pastures. However, there were not many differences observed between the groups and breeds. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
- Authors: Guzi, Anelisa https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5568-3396
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Boran cattle , Nguni cattle , Cattle breeds
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22721 , vital:52672
- Description: This study's overall objective was to investigate communal farmers' perceptions on production practices and evaluate pre-slaughter responsiveness of extensively reared Boran and Nguni steers. On objective one farmers’ knowledge and perceptions on cattle breeds, management, and marketing channels in selected villages of Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa were evaluated. Interviews were conducted using a structured questionnaire divided into demographic information and relevant cattle production practices, following a snowball technique to select 101 cattle-keeping households from Gaga, Ntselamanzi, and Ncerha villages. Most of the interviewed cattle farmers were males (65percent), in the age range of 40-60 years, with a primary-matric educational level. Among others, they highlighted financial security (47percent) and traditional ceremonies (26percent) as the reasons for keeping cattle. Most dominant in their herds were the Boran (49percent) and crossbreds (23percent) reared extensively with some supplementation (nutritional and medicinal). Their breed selection was based on disease and tick tolerance, temperament, and product (milk and meat) quality. It was noted that most of the interviewed cattle owners have the basic knowledge of good management practices, breed differences, and marketing chains. They related to low productivity to diseases, lack of knowledge, and poor resources. On the second objective pre-slaughter blood-based stress indicators and their subsequent effects were evaluated on beef quality of extensively reared Nguni and Boran steers . Twenty steers (10 Nguni and 10 Boran) aged 18 months were divided into two groups (with 5 of each breed per group) and transported from the University of Fort Hare Honeydale farm to the East London abattoir in the morning and afternoon trips. Upon arrival at the abattoir, the steers were held in lairage units for 24 hours (group 1) and 16 hours (group 2) until slaughter. Blood samples were drawn using a needle and vacutainer tubes from each steer's jugular vein at the farm before transportation, upon arrival at the abattoir, and during slaughter to perform cortisol, glucose, and routine haematological analysis. M. longissimus dorsi samples were harvested on the left side of each carcass to measure the meat quality attributes. Interactions between the observed production-stage activities, breeds, and physiological changes of these steers were recognized; with cortisol and glucose increasing (P ≤ 0.05) during transportation (4.15±0.46 ng/mL and 5.35±0.46nmol/L respectively) and also with farm group 1 showing higher cortisol (42.62±14.47 ng/mL) than the second group. Furthermore, all steers that were in slaughter group 1 showed less cortisol (101.49±14.47 ng/mL) and glucose (6.50±14.47 nmol/L) levels than those in group 2. In addition, Boran steers had higher packed cell volume, erythrocyte count, and haemoglobin values (33.27±0.54 percent, 7.66±0.19 106 μL, and 11.15±0.16 g/dl respectively) compared to Nguni steers in all production-stages. Later in the experiment, the effect of breed type, production stage activities (farm handling, transportation, and lairage duration), and stress responsiveness on some meat quality parameters (pH, lightness (L*), redness (a*), yellowness (b*), hue, Chroma, thawing and cooking loss, and tenderness) collected from the steers were measured. It was observed that the group lairaged for 16 hours produced the highest L* value (36.25±0.88) compared to those lairaged for 24 hours. As for the b* and hue of the meat, there were positive interactions between the breed type and the production stages (p<0.05). Lastly, cooking loss and tenderness were significantly affected by the breed type in all groups, with Nguni having the most tender meat (24.06±1.39 percent) and less cooking loss (16.92±1.33 percent) than Boran breeds. Therefore, the production stage conditions and breed type influenced some physiological stress-indicators and meat quality of Boran and Nguni steers raised on natural pastures. However, there were not many differences observed between the groups and breeds. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
The effect of marketing capabilities on the competitive advantage of Small Medium and Micro Enterprises in OR Tambo District Municipality, Eastern Cape
- Mpongwana, Konaye https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4105-1536
- Authors: Mpongwana, Konaye https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4105-1536
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Market segmentation , Marketing -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20197 , vital:45407
- Description: It is usually understood that the development of technological marketing capabilities by firms provides them with immense opportunities to transform their business practices and strategies, to strategically position themselves in the market and enhance firm performance. The main objective of this study was to determine the effect of marketing capabilities (Intellectual capital, marketing strategy and market orientation) on the competitive advantage of SMMEs. Prior research has that early development of marketing capabilities enables firms to achieve competitive advantage. The issue to be attended to will be to identify the connection between the incorrect marketing capabilities and failure of SMMEs, if there is any. Furthermore, a thorough investigation looking at how the reduction of failure of SMMEs can be realised by investigating the marketing capabilities of SMMEs. Quantitative research approach was used in the study, with a population of 200 SMMEs, the Raosoft calculator is also used to calculate the sample size of 100 SMMEs which were used to collect the primary data of the study. Convenience sampling method was used by the researcher. The findings also revealed that SMMEs adopt new and advanced technologies when marketing their products and services. The study recommends that SMME Owners/ Managers should consider spending a higher proportion of their time and money engaging in activities related to marketing throughout the life of their business. Therefore, it has concluded that effective deployment of marketing capabilities can lead to competitive advantage and greater performance. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
- Authors: Mpongwana, Konaye https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4105-1536
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Market segmentation , Marketing -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20197 , vital:45407
- Description: It is usually understood that the development of technological marketing capabilities by firms provides them with immense opportunities to transform their business practices and strategies, to strategically position themselves in the market and enhance firm performance. The main objective of this study was to determine the effect of marketing capabilities (Intellectual capital, marketing strategy and market orientation) on the competitive advantage of SMMEs. Prior research has that early development of marketing capabilities enables firms to achieve competitive advantage. The issue to be attended to will be to identify the connection between the incorrect marketing capabilities and failure of SMMEs, if there is any. Furthermore, a thorough investigation looking at how the reduction of failure of SMMEs can be realised by investigating the marketing capabilities of SMMEs. Quantitative research approach was used in the study, with a population of 200 SMMEs, the Raosoft calculator is also used to calculate the sample size of 100 SMMEs which were used to collect the primary data of the study. Convenience sampling method was used by the researcher. The findings also revealed that SMMEs adopt new and advanced technologies when marketing their products and services. The study recommends that SMME Owners/ Managers should consider spending a higher proportion of their time and money engaging in activities related to marketing throughout the life of their business. Therefore, it has concluded that effective deployment of marketing capabilities can lead to competitive advantage and greater performance. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
The effects of exchange rate volatility on manufacturing exports in South Africa
- Authors: Munyu, Yibanati
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Foreign exchange rates
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20208 , vital:45411
- Description: The study examined the effect of exchange rate volatility on manufacturing exports in South Africa utilizing quarterly time series data from 1990 to 2018. Manufacturing exports (MX), foreign income (GDPf), input costs (C01), the real effective exchange rate (REER) and exchange rate volatility (V) were the key parameters. The study employed two alternative measures of exchange rate volatility. The first measure is the moving average standard deviation of the logarithm of the real effective exchange rate (MASDlnREER) based on the raw monthly data of the real effective exchange rate. The second measure is a dummy variable intended to capture the unexpected variation of the exchange rate. The study utilized the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) and the Error Correction Method (ECM) to examine the both the long run and short-run relationships. The empirical results revealed that in the long run, the real effective exchange rate volatility measure (MASDlnREER) has a negative and significant effect on manufacturing exports in South Africa. This result suggests that policy makers need to make an effort to moderate, the volatility of the Rand in an attempt to contain the adverse effects on manufacturing exports. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
- Authors: Munyu, Yibanati
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Foreign exchange rates
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20208 , vital:45411
- Description: The study examined the effect of exchange rate volatility on manufacturing exports in South Africa utilizing quarterly time series data from 1990 to 2018. Manufacturing exports (MX), foreign income (GDPf), input costs (C01), the real effective exchange rate (REER) and exchange rate volatility (V) were the key parameters. The study employed two alternative measures of exchange rate volatility. The first measure is the moving average standard deviation of the logarithm of the real effective exchange rate (MASDlnREER) based on the raw monthly data of the real effective exchange rate. The second measure is a dummy variable intended to capture the unexpected variation of the exchange rate. The study utilized the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) and the Error Correction Method (ECM) to examine the both the long run and short-run relationships. The empirical results revealed that in the long run, the real effective exchange rate volatility measure (MASDlnREER) has a negative and significant effect on manufacturing exports in South Africa. This result suggests that policy makers need to make an effort to moderate, the volatility of the Rand in an attempt to contain the adverse effects on manufacturing exports. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
The re-settlement of a ruined earth: Investigating the notion of “dwelling” through The design of a settlement in a post apocalyptic landscape
- Authors: Holdstock, Miranda
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Landscape architecture , Restoration ecology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59051 , vital:60259
- Description: It is 2100 and anthropogenic climate change is well underway. Human civilisation has collapsed and those who survived the apocalypse are condemned to a life of wandering along a ruined earth; placeless; hopeless; searching for sanctuary. Our most elemental instincts will find this place, and build on it, as we always have. There, we will construct an order in the chaos of the apocalypse, by building dwelling. In an apocalyptic landscape our dependence on dwelling is only amplified. This dwelling, an evolved shelter, the beginnings of settlement, is the manifestation of its dweller’s psyche: the totality of the human mind; the conscious and unconscious; the seen and unseen. It is a chronicle of their dreamworld, memories and experiences. And, when the dweller is also the builder, the dwelling is crafted as an intricate memory-scape - which, in the climate apocalypse, is easily desecrated by the horrors of the end of the known world. Because, at our most vulnerable, when our mortality is confronted, a crisis of being occurs. Those who cannot withstand the physical and psychological suffering that the apocalypse inspires, will become non-beings: those who unconsciously long for death. To portray this, a climate refugee becomes the project’s protagonist. Through her psychological evolution, a dwelling will be built at a site to which she wandered, that represents a ruined earth, where the remains of human civilisation are left behind. Her architecture will embody principles that might facilitate survival in a hyper-harsh environment and safeguard her fragile psychology through bio-inspired and phenomenological design. The final product of this thesis will be a symbolic representation of human wandering, settling and dwelling - the origin of civilisation within chaos. Which, despite the denial of climate change, might be sooner than we think. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
- Authors: Holdstock, Miranda
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Landscape architecture , Restoration ecology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59051 , vital:60259
- Description: It is 2100 and anthropogenic climate change is well underway. Human civilisation has collapsed and those who survived the apocalypse are condemned to a life of wandering along a ruined earth; placeless; hopeless; searching for sanctuary. Our most elemental instincts will find this place, and build on it, as we always have. There, we will construct an order in the chaos of the apocalypse, by building dwelling. In an apocalyptic landscape our dependence on dwelling is only amplified. This dwelling, an evolved shelter, the beginnings of settlement, is the manifestation of its dweller’s psyche: the totality of the human mind; the conscious and unconscious; the seen and unseen. It is a chronicle of their dreamworld, memories and experiences. And, when the dweller is also the builder, the dwelling is crafted as an intricate memory-scape - which, in the climate apocalypse, is easily desecrated by the horrors of the end of the known world. Because, at our most vulnerable, when our mortality is confronted, a crisis of being occurs. Those who cannot withstand the physical and psychological suffering that the apocalypse inspires, will become non-beings: those who unconsciously long for death. To portray this, a climate refugee becomes the project’s protagonist. Through her psychological evolution, a dwelling will be built at a site to which she wandered, that represents a ruined earth, where the remains of human civilisation are left behind. Her architecture will embody principles that might facilitate survival in a hyper-harsh environment and safeguard her fragile psychology through bio-inspired and phenomenological design. The final product of this thesis will be a symbolic representation of human wandering, settling and dwelling - the origin of civilisation within chaos. Which, despite the denial of climate change, might be sooner than we think. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
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