The classification performance of Bayesian Networks Classifiers: a case study of detecting Denial of Service (DoS) attacks in cloud computing environments
- Authors: Moyo, Lindani
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Computer Science)
- Identifier: vital:11405 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021327
- Description: In this research we propose a Bayesian networks approach as a promissory classification technique for detecting malicious traffic due to Denial of Service (DoS) attacks. Bayesian networks have been applied in numerous fields fraught with uncertainty and they have been proved to be successful. They have excelled tremendously in classification tasks i.e. text analysis, medical diagnoses and environmental modeling and management. The detection of DoS attacks has received tremendous attention in the field of network security. DoS attacks have proved to be detrimental and are the bane of cloud computing environments. Large business enterprises have been/or are still unwilling to outsource their businesses to the cloud due to the intrusive tendencies that the cloud platforms are prone too. To make use of Bayesian networks it is imperative to understand the ―ecosystem‖ of factors that are external to modeling the Bayesian algorithm itself. Understanding these factors have proven to result in comparable improvement in classification performance beyond the augmentation of the existing algorithms. Literature provides discussions pertaining to the factors that impact the classification capability, however it was noticed that the effects of the factors are not universal, they tend to be unique for each domain problem. This study investigates the effects of modeling parameters on the classification performance of Bayesian network classifiers in detecting DoS attacks in cloud platforms. We analyzed how structural complexity, training sample size, the choice of discretization method and lastly the score function both individually and collectively impact the performance of classifying between normal and DoS attacks on the cloud. To study the aforementioned factors, we conducted a series of experiments in detecting live DoS attacks launched against a deployed cloud and thereafter examined the classification performance in terms of accuracy of different classes of Bayesian networks. NSL-KDD dataset was used as our training set. We used ownCloud software to deploy our cloud platform. To launch DoS attacks, we used hping3 hacker friendly utility. A live packet capture was used as our test set. WEKA version 3.7.12 was used for our experiments. Our results show that the progression in model complexity improves the classification performance. This is attributed to the increase in the number of attribute correlations. Also the size of the training sample size proved to improve classification ability. Our findings noted that the choice of discretization algorithm does matter in the quest for optimal classification performance. Furthermore, our results indicate that the choice of scoring function does not affect the classification performance of Bayesian networks. Conclusions drawn from this research are prescriptive particularly for a novice machine learning researcher with valuable recommendations that ensure optimal classification performance of Bayesian networks classifiers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Moyo, Lindani
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Computer Science)
- Identifier: vital:11405 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021327
- Description: In this research we propose a Bayesian networks approach as a promissory classification technique for detecting malicious traffic due to Denial of Service (DoS) attacks. Bayesian networks have been applied in numerous fields fraught with uncertainty and they have been proved to be successful. They have excelled tremendously in classification tasks i.e. text analysis, medical diagnoses and environmental modeling and management. The detection of DoS attacks has received tremendous attention in the field of network security. DoS attacks have proved to be detrimental and are the bane of cloud computing environments. Large business enterprises have been/or are still unwilling to outsource their businesses to the cloud due to the intrusive tendencies that the cloud platforms are prone too. To make use of Bayesian networks it is imperative to understand the ―ecosystem‖ of factors that are external to modeling the Bayesian algorithm itself. Understanding these factors have proven to result in comparable improvement in classification performance beyond the augmentation of the existing algorithms. Literature provides discussions pertaining to the factors that impact the classification capability, however it was noticed that the effects of the factors are not universal, they tend to be unique for each domain problem. This study investigates the effects of modeling parameters on the classification performance of Bayesian network classifiers in detecting DoS attacks in cloud platforms. We analyzed how structural complexity, training sample size, the choice of discretization method and lastly the score function both individually and collectively impact the performance of classifying between normal and DoS attacks on the cloud. To study the aforementioned factors, we conducted a series of experiments in detecting live DoS attacks launched against a deployed cloud and thereafter examined the classification performance in terms of accuracy of different classes of Bayesian networks. NSL-KDD dataset was used as our training set. We used ownCloud software to deploy our cloud platform. To launch DoS attacks, we used hping3 hacker friendly utility. A live packet capture was used as our test set. WEKA version 3.7.12 was used for our experiments. Our results show that the progression in model complexity improves the classification performance. This is attributed to the increase in the number of attribute correlations. Also the size of the training sample size proved to improve classification ability. Our findings noted that the choice of discretization algorithm does matter in the quest for optimal classification performance. Furthermore, our results indicate that the choice of scoring function does not affect the classification performance of Bayesian networks. Conclusions drawn from this research are prescriptive particularly for a novice machine learning researcher with valuable recommendations that ensure optimal classification performance of Bayesian networks classifiers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Development of a bench scale single batch biomass to liquid fuel facility
- Authors: Zhang, Yusheng
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Biomass energy , Renewable energy sources , Energy conversion , Electric power production
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Chemistry)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/811 , vital:26499 , Biomass energy , Renewable energy sources , Energy conversion , Electric power production
- Description: The research described in this dissertation was motivated by the global demand for energy that is not dependent on coal, oil, natural gas and other non-renewable fossil fuels. The technology used in this project is related to the use of biomass to produce a viable alternative to conventional sources of fuel. A bench scale biomass to liquid (BTL) facility was built and tested. This produced results confirming the feasibility of the BTL process. The findings of the pilot study outlined in this dissertation justified the conclusion that the next step will be to expand the capacity and productivity of the BTL pilot plant to an industrial scale. Biomass comes from a variety of renewable sources that are readily available. In this case, the material used in the fixed bed biomass gasification facility to generate wood gas was agricultural and forestry waste, such as straw and wood chips. The gasifier had the capacity to produce up to 10 cubic metres/hr of gas with a carbon monoxide and hydrogen content of between 20–40% by volume, when it was operated at ambient pressure and with air as the oxidizer. The gas, produced at a temperature above 700º C, was cooled in a quench/water scrubber in order to remove most of the mechanical impurities (tars and water-soluble inorganic particles), condensed and dried with corn cobs before being compressed in cylinders at over 100 bar (g) for use in the Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis (FTS). The syngas was subjected further to a series of refining processes which included removal of sulphur and oxygen. The sulphur removal technology chosen entailed applying modified activated carbon to adsorb H2S with the help of hydrolysis in order to convert organic sulphur impurities into H2S which reduced the sulphur content of the gas to less than 5 ppbv. Supported cobalt catalyst (100 grams), were loaded into a single-tube fixed bed FT reactor with an inner diameter of 50 mm. The reactor was fitted with a heating jacket through which, heated oil ran to cool the reactor during a normal reaction occurring at < 250 ºC, while nitrogen was used in the heating jacket during reduction, which occurred at temperatures up ~ 350 ºC. The FTS reaction was carried out at different pressures and temperatures. Liquid and wax products were produced from the facility. The properties of the liquid and solid hydrocarbons produced were found to be the same as FT products from other feed stocks, such as natural gas and coal.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Zhang, Yusheng
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Biomass energy , Renewable energy sources , Energy conversion , Electric power production
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Chemistry)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/811 , vital:26499 , Biomass energy , Renewable energy sources , Energy conversion , Electric power production
- Description: The research described in this dissertation was motivated by the global demand for energy that is not dependent on coal, oil, natural gas and other non-renewable fossil fuels. The technology used in this project is related to the use of biomass to produce a viable alternative to conventional sources of fuel. A bench scale biomass to liquid (BTL) facility was built and tested. This produced results confirming the feasibility of the BTL process. The findings of the pilot study outlined in this dissertation justified the conclusion that the next step will be to expand the capacity and productivity of the BTL pilot plant to an industrial scale. Biomass comes from a variety of renewable sources that are readily available. In this case, the material used in the fixed bed biomass gasification facility to generate wood gas was agricultural and forestry waste, such as straw and wood chips. The gasifier had the capacity to produce up to 10 cubic metres/hr of gas with a carbon monoxide and hydrogen content of between 20–40% by volume, when it was operated at ambient pressure and with air as the oxidizer. The gas, produced at a temperature above 700º C, was cooled in a quench/water scrubber in order to remove most of the mechanical impurities (tars and water-soluble inorganic particles), condensed and dried with corn cobs before being compressed in cylinders at over 100 bar (g) for use in the Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis (FTS). The syngas was subjected further to a series of refining processes which included removal of sulphur and oxygen. The sulphur removal technology chosen entailed applying modified activated carbon to adsorb H2S with the help of hydrolysis in order to convert organic sulphur impurities into H2S which reduced the sulphur content of the gas to less than 5 ppbv. Supported cobalt catalyst (100 grams), were loaded into a single-tube fixed bed FT reactor with an inner diameter of 50 mm. The reactor was fitted with a heating jacket through which, heated oil ran to cool the reactor during a normal reaction occurring at < 250 ºC, while nitrogen was used in the heating jacket during reduction, which occurred at temperatures up ~ 350 ºC. The FTS reaction was carried out at different pressures and temperatures. Liquid and wax products were produced from the facility. The properties of the liquid and solid hydrocarbons produced were found to be the same as FT products from other feed stocks, such as natural gas and coal.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Effects of dietary inclusion of Moringa oleifera leaf meal on growth performance, physico-chemical attributes, oxidative stability and sensory quality of pork
- Authors: Nduku, Xola Pauline
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Pork -- Quality , Food -- Sensory evaluation , Fatty acids , Moringa , Meat -- Quality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11836 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021281 , Pork -- Quality , Food -- Sensory evaluation , Fatty acids , Moringa , Meat -- Quality
- Description: The objective of the study was to determine growth performance, physico-chemical attributes, oxidative stability and sensory quality of pork from pigs fed one of three dietary treatments, eac containing 0%, 2.5% or 5% (T1, T2 and T3, respectively) Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM). Dietary treatments were formulated to be isonitrogenous and isoenergetic for weaner (6 – 8 weeks) and grower (9 – 13 weeks) phases. Twelve Large White (LW) and 12 Kolbroek (KB) male pigs at 6 weeks of age, initially weighing an average 10 kg, were randomly allocated to one of the dietary treatments, each with four replicates, in individual pens. Feed and water were offered ad libitum. The Longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) muscle of each carcass (n = 24) was sampled for meat quality and fatty acid analyses. Breed differences in measured parameters were observed. In pigs receiving 5% MOLM, the LW had significantly the highest ADFI (P<0.05) than KB pigs. In pigs receiving 2.5% and 5% MOLM, backfat thickness was significantly highest (P<0.05) compared to those receiving 0% MOML. Dietary inclusion of MOLM had no significant effects (P>0.05) on the physico-chemical quality of pork from LW pigs; although it significantly (P<0.05) increased a* and reduced WBSF values in pork from KB pigs. Pork from LW pigs receiving 5% MOLM had significantly increased (P<0.05) n-3 content of the subcutaneous tissue of LW pigs compared to KB, and also when compread to other treatment groups. In both breeds, the composition of PUFA: SFA and n-6: n-3 in the subcutaneous adipose tissue was significantly (P<0.05) lower in T2 and T3 than in T1. The n-3 levels for pork muscle from LW pigs receiving 2.5% and 5% MOLM, and from KB pigs receiving 5% MOLM, were significantly (P<0.05) lower. Inclusions of MOLM significantly (P<0.05) reduced the n-6: n-3 fatty acids in pork from both LW pigs and KB pigs. Consumer scores on sensory attributes (aroma intensity, initial impression of juiciness, first bite, sustained impression of juiciness, muscle fibre and overall tenderness and overall flavor intensity) significantly (P<0.05) increased as the level of MOLM inclusion in the diet increased; and higher scores were observed in fried meat than in boiled for most sensory attributes. It may be concluded that inclusion of MOLM in pig diets up to 5% improved the ADFI, a*, tenderness of pork without adversely affecting the FCR and other physico-chemical quality attributes; and resulted in desired increase in levels of n-3 and reduced the n-6: n-3 fatty acid ratio.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Nduku, Xola Pauline
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Pork -- Quality , Food -- Sensory evaluation , Fatty acids , Moringa , Meat -- Quality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11836 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021281 , Pork -- Quality , Food -- Sensory evaluation , Fatty acids , Moringa , Meat -- Quality
- Description: The objective of the study was to determine growth performance, physico-chemical attributes, oxidative stability and sensory quality of pork from pigs fed one of three dietary treatments, eac containing 0%, 2.5% or 5% (T1, T2 and T3, respectively) Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM). Dietary treatments were formulated to be isonitrogenous and isoenergetic for weaner (6 – 8 weeks) and grower (9 – 13 weeks) phases. Twelve Large White (LW) and 12 Kolbroek (KB) male pigs at 6 weeks of age, initially weighing an average 10 kg, were randomly allocated to one of the dietary treatments, each with four replicates, in individual pens. Feed and water were offered ad libitum. The Longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) muscle of each carcass (n = 24) was sampled for meat quality and fatty acid analyses. Breed differences in measured parameters were observed. In pigs receiving 5% MOLM, the LW had significantly the highest ADFI (P<0.05) than KB pigs. In pigs receiving 2.5% and 5% MOLM, backfat thickness was significantly highest (P<0.05) compared to those receiving 0% MOML. Dietary inclusion of MOLM had no significant effects (P>0.05) on the physico-chemical quality of pork from LW pigs; although it significantly (P<0.05) increased a* and reduced WBSF values in pork from KB pigs. Pork from LW pigs receiving 5% MOLM had significantly increased (P<0.05) n-3 content of the subcutaneous tissue of LW pigs compared to KB, and also when compread to other treatment groups. In both breeds, the composition of PUFA: SFA and n-6: n-3 in the subcutaneous adipose tissue was significantly (P<0.05) lower in T2 and T3 than in T1. The n-3 levels for pork muscle from LW pigs receiving 2.5% and 5% MOLM, and from KB pigs receiving 5% MOLM, were significantly (P<0.05) lower. Inclusions of MOLM significantly (P<0.05) reduced the n-6: n-3 fatty acids in pork from both LW pigs and KB pigs. Consumer scores on sensory attributes (aroma intensity, initial impression of juiciness, first bite, sustained impression of juiciness, muscle fibre and overall tenderness and overall flavor intensity) significantly (P<0.05) increased as the level of MOLM inclusion in the diet increased; and higher scores were observed in fried meat than in boiled for most sensory attributes. It may be concluded that inclusion of MOLM in pig diets up to 5% improved the ADFI, a*, tenderness of pork without adversely affecting the FCR and other physico-chemical quality attributes; and resulted in desired increase in levels of n-3 and reduced the n-6: n-3 fatty acid ratio.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Experiences of agency nurses regarding their placement in private hospitals in East London, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Muller, Jennifer
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11911 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016054
- Description: The general Australian workforce is becoming increasingly reliant on agency staff due to the diminishing of full-time jobs and the rise in part-time jobs since the recession of 1991-1992. This pattern is also seen in Western countries such as America and the United Kingdom (Peerson et al., 2002:505). The excessive costs of health service adopting a 100% staffing model has created the use of agency nursing to help meet fluctuating and unpredictable health care demands in Australia and overseas; agency staff are used to meet the shortfalls in staff-patient ratios (Peerson et al., 2002:505). Hurst & Smith (2011:287) agree that agency nurse staffing form a large part of the health service in the UK and state that this was unlikely to change because of recruitment and retention problems, high absenteeism, and staff wanting to work casually. In their study, they identified three types of agency nurses: A bank nurse – the hospital’s own employees or those supplied by NHS Professionals, who work when required, usually at short notice; agency nurses provided by commercial organisations, who are equally flexible but less familiar with the ward patients and procedures; and permanent ward staff working paid overtime. In South Africa, this also remains a problem in public and private institutions. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that the minimum ratio for nurses to population is 200:100 000 or 500 people per nurse. According to South African Nursing Council statistics of nursing manpower as at the end of 2008, South Africa has 437 nurses for every 100 000 people. This assumed that all nurses registered with SANC are working in South Africa at the time. Therefore, if the assumed number of staff not working in South Africa is subtracted, the ratio can increase to between 600 and 678 people per nurse (WHO, 2006). Joubert (2009:2) shows that a shortage of nurses contributes to deaths in hospitals in South Africa that would otherwise have been avoidable. The use of agency staff is becoming an appropriate means of providing cost-effectiveness and flexibility to staffing needs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Muller, Jennifer
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11911 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016054
- Description: The general Australian workforce is becoming increasingly reliant on agency staff due to the diminishing of full-time jobs and the rise in part-time jobs since the recession of 1991-1992. This pattern is also seen in Western countries such as America and the United Kingdom (Peerson et al., 2002:505). The excessive costs of health service adopting a 100% staffing model has created the use of agency nursing to help meet fluctuating and unpredictable health care demands in Australia and overseas; agency staff are used to meet the shortfalls in staff-patient ratios (Peerson et al., 2002:505). Hurst & Smith (2011:287) agree that agency nurse staffing form a large part of the health service in the UK and state that this was unlikely to change because of recruitment and retention problems, high absenteeism, and staff wanting to work casually. In their study, they identified three types of agency nurses: A bank nurse – the hospital’s own employees or those supplied by NHS Professionals, who work when required, usually at short notice; agency nurses provided by commercial organisations, who are equally flexible but less familiar with the ward patients and procedures; and permanent ward staff working paid overtime. In South Africa, this also remains a problem in public and private institutions. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that the minimum ratio for nurses to population is 200:100 000 or 500 people per nurse. According to South African Nursing Council statistics of nursing manpower as at the end of 2008, South Africa has 437 nurses for every 100 000 people. This assumed that all nurses registered with SANC are working in South Africa at the time. Therefore, if the assumed number of staff not working in South Africa is subtracted, the ratio can increase to between 600 and 678 people per nurse (WHO, 2006). Joubert (2009:2) shows that a shortage of nurses contributes to deaths in hospitals in South Africa that would otherwise have been avoidable. The use of agency staff is becoming an appropriate means of providing cost-effectiveness and flexibility to staffing needs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A feasibility study of wireless network technologies for rural broadband connectivity
- Authors: Twele, Nombulelo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Wireless communication systems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Local area networks (Computer networks) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Broadband communication systems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Computer Science)
- Identifier: vital:11396 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016167 , Wireless communication systems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Local area networks (Computer networks) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Broadband communication systems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The adoption of wireless broadband technologies to provide network and Internet connectivity in rural communities has conveyed the possibility to overcome the challenges caused by marginalization and many other characteristics possessed by these rural communities. With their different capabilities, these technologies enable communication for rural communities internally within the community and externally on a global scale. Deployment of these technologies in rural areas requires consideration of different factors - these are in contrast, to those considered when deploying these technologies in non-rural, urban areas. Numerous research show consideration of facts for deployment of broadband technologies in urban/ non-rural environments and a little has been done in considering facts for deployment in rural environments. Hence this research aims to define guidelines for selection of broadband technologies and make recommendations on which technologies are suitable for deployment in rural communities, thereby considering facts that are true only within these rural communities. To achieve this, the research determines the metrics that are relevant and important to consider when deploying wireless broadband technology in rural communities of South Africa. It further undertakes a survey of wireless broadband technologies that are suitable for deployment in such areas. The study first profiles a list of wireless communication technologies, determines and documents characteristics of rural communities in Africa, determines metrics used to declare technologies feasible in rural areas. The metrics and rural characteristics are then used to identify technologies that are better suited than others. Informed by this initial profiling, one technology: mobile WiMAX is then selected for deployment and further evaluation. A technical review of mobile WiMAX is then carried out by deploying it at our research site in the rural, marginalized community of Dwesa (Eastern Cape, South Africa). The final section of this research provides recommendations that mobile WiMAX, LTE and Wi-Fi are the best suitable technologies for deployment in rural marginalized environments. This has been supported by extensive research and real life deployment of both Wi-Fi and mobile WiMAX. This research also recommends consideration of the following facts when seeking deployment of these technologies in rural communities: the geographical setting of the target terrain, the distances between sources and target customers and distances between target communities, weather conditions of the area, applications to be deployed over the network, social well-being of the community and their financial freedom as well.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Twele, Nombulelo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Wireless communication systems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Local area networks (Computer networks) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Broadband communication systems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Computer Science)
- Identifier: vital:11396 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016167 , Wireless communication systems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Local area networks (Computer networks) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Broadband communication systems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The adoption of wireless broadband technologies to provide network and Internet connectivity in rural communities has conveyed the possibility to overcome the challenges caused by marginalization and many other characteristics possessed by these rural communities. With their different capabilities, these technologies enable communication for rural communities internally within the community and externally on a global scale. Deployment of these technologies in rural areas requires consideration of different factors - these are in contrast, to those considered when deploying these technologies in non-rural, urban areas. Numerous research show consideration of facts for deployment of broadband technologies in urban/ non-rural environments and a little has been done in considering facts for deployment in rural environments. Hence this research aims to define guidelines for selection of broadband technologies and make recommendations on which technologies are suitable for deployment in rural communities, thereby considering facts that are true only within these rural communities. To achieve this, the research determines the metrics that are relevant and important to consider when deploying wireless broadband technology in rural communities of South Africa. It further undertakes a survey of wireless broadband technologies that are suitable for deployment in such areas. The study first profiles a list of wireless communication technologies, determines and documents characteristics of rural communities in Africa, determines metrics used to declare technologies feasible in rural areas. The metrics and rural characteristics are then used to identify technologies that are better suited than others. Informed by this initial profiling, one technology: mobile WiMAX is then selected for deployment and further evaluation. A technical review of mobile WiMAX is then carried out by deploying it at our research site in the rural, marginalized community of Dwesa (Eastern Cape, South Africa). The final section of this research provides recommendations that mobile WiMAX, LTE and Wi-Fi are the best suitable technologies for deployment in rural marginalized environments. This has been supported by extensive research and real life deployment of both Wi-Fi and mobile WiMAX. This research also recommends consideration of the following facts when seeking deployment of these technologies in rural communities: the geographical setting of the target terrain, the distances between sources and target customers and distances between target communities, weather conditions of the area, applications to be deployed over the network, social well-being of the community and their financial freedom as well.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Effect of dietary inclusion of Moringa oleifera Lam leaf meal on feed conversion efficiency, meat quality, fatty acid composition, shelf life and consumer health-related perceptions of pork
- Authors: Mukumbo, Felicitas Esnart
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Moringa oleifera , Meat -- Quality , Feed utilization efficiency
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11827 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016071 , Moringa oleifera , Meat -- Quality , Feed utilization efficiency
- Description: The objective of the study was to determine the feed conversion efficiency (FCE), carcass characteristics, physico-chemical quality, fatty acid (FA) composition and shelf life of pork from pigs fed diets containing either 0% (T1), 2.5% (T2), 5% (T3) or 7.5% (T4) Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM). Consumer health-related perceptions on pork and fatty acids were also investigated. Twenty four crossbred Large White x Landrace pigs of both sexes at 18 weeks of age and initially weighing 71.6 kg on average were housed individually and had ad libitum access to one of the four dietary treatments for a period of six weeks. Average daily feed intake (ADFI) and average daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion ratios (FCR) were calculated as an indication of FCE and pigs were slaughtered at an average live weight of 99.6 kg. Carcass traits such as back fat thickness (BFT), carcass temperatures and pH readings taken 45 minutes and 24 hours (pH45 and pHu) post mortem were recorded. M. longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) samples were taken from each carcass for the determination of lightness (L*), redness (a*), yellowness (b*), thawing loss percentage (TL%), cooking loss percentage (CL%), Warner Bratzler Shear Force (WBSF), shelf life and FA composition. Furthermore a survey was conducted amongst 80 University of Fort Hare Students to determine their health-related perceptions on pork and fatty acids as well as their pork consumption frequency using questionnaires. The FCE of pigs fed on 0-5% MOLM (T1, T2 and T3) diets did not differ significantly, but the FCE of pigs fed 7.5% MOLM (T4) was significantly (p<0.05) reduced. No significant relationship was reported between inclusion of MOLM carcass characteristics and physico-chemical pork quality. There was however a significant improvement (p<0.05) in the shelf life of the pork from MOLM fed pigs in terms of colour and odour during 10 days of refrigerated storage (at 3±1°C). There was a significant (p<0.05) reduction in the total intramuscular fat (IMF) content and the saturated fatty acid (SFA) C18:0 (stearic acid) content and an overall non-significant (p>0.05) increase in the poly unsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content of pork from MOLM fed pigs. The possible reason for this is that the feeding of MOLM was commenced when the pigs were at an advanced age and weight. The survey revealed that the majority of interviewed students consume fresh (39.7%) and processed (32.4%) pork two to three times a week, perceive pork to be generally healthy (70%) and the second most healthy meat type (39.5%). While the majority (55.4%) were aware of the health implications of FAs they did not know which FA classes pose more of a health risk (51.3%). In conclusion2.5% and 5% of MOLM in finisher pig feed did not negatively affect FCE, carcass characteristics or physico-chemical meat quality; significantly improved pork shelf life and reduced total IMF and SFA content of pork but 7.5% MOLM negatively affected FCE; and the majority of students perceive pork to be the second most healthy type of meat and are generally aware of the health implications of FAs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mukumbo, Felicitas Esnart
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Moringa oleifera , Meat -- Quality , Feed utilization efficiency
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11827 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016071 , Moringa oleifera , Meat -- Quality , Feed utilization efficiency
- Description: The objective of the study was to determine the feed conversion efficiency (FCE), carcass characteristics, physico-chemical quality, fatty acid (FA) composition and shelf life of pork from pigs fed diets containing either 0% (T1), 2.5% (T2), 5% (T3) or 7.5% (T4) Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM). Consumer health-related perceptions on pork and fatty acids were also investigated. Twenty four crossbred Large White x Landrace pigs of both sexes at 18 weeks of age and initially weighing 71.6 kg on average were housed individually and had ad libitum access to one of the four dietary treatments for a period of six weeks. Average daily feed intake (ADFI) and average daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion ratios (FCR) were calculated as an indication of FCE and pigs were slaughtered at an average live weight of 99.6 kg. Carcass traits such as back fat thickness (BFT), carcass temperatures and pH readings taken 45 minutes and 24 hours (pH45 and pHu) post mortem were recorded. M. longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) samples were taken from each carcass for the determination of lightness (L*), redness (a*), yellowness (b*), thawing loss percentage (TL%), cooking loss percentage (CL%), Warner Bratzler Shear Force (WBSF), shelf life and FA composition. Furthermore a survey was conducted amongst 80 University of Fort Hare Students to determine their health-related perceptions on pork and fatty acids as well as their pork consumption frequency using questionnaires. The FCE of pigs fed on 0-5% MOLM (T1, T2 and T3) diets did not differ significantly, but the FCE of pigs fed 7.5% MOLM (T4) was significantly (p<0.05) reduced. No significant relationship was reported between inclusion of MOLM carcass characteristics and physico-chemical pork quality. There was however a significant improvement (p<0.05) in the shelf life of the pork from MOLM fed pigs in terms of colour and odour during 10 days of refrigerated storage (at 3±1°C). There was a significant (p<0.05) reduction in the total intramuscular fat (IMF) content and the saturated fatty acid (SFA) C18:0 (stearic acid) content and an overall non-significant (p>0.05) increase in the poly unsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content of pork from MOLM fed pigs. The possible reason for this is that the feeding of MOLM was commenced when the pigs were at an advanced age and weight. The survey revealed that the majority of interviewed students consume fresh (39.7%) and processed (32.4%) pork two to three times a week, perceive pork to be generally healthy (70%) and the second most healthy meat type (39.5%). While the majority (55.4%) were aware of the health implications of FAs they did not know which FA classes pose more of a health risk (51.3%). In conclusion2.5% and 5% of MOLM in finisher pig feed did not negatively affect FCE, carcass characteristics or physico-chemical meat quality; significantly improved pork shelf life and reduced total IMF and SFA content of pork but 7.5% MOLM negatively affected FCE; and the majority of students perceive pork to be the second most healthy type of meat and are generally aware of the health implications of FAs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The characterization and electrochemistry of dye-sensitized solar cells
- Authors: Caga, Noloyiso
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Dye-sensitized solar cells , Acetonitrile , Electrochemistry , Spectrum analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Chemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11341 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016069 , Dye-sensitized solar cells , Acetonitrile , Electrochemistry , Spectrum analysis
- Description: In this study a presentation of the technology behind dye-sensitized solar cells, their design as well as the role of the different parts of the cell. The characterization of the cell is divided into four sections namely: the characterization of the paste required to make the TiO2 film and its optical properties using SEM-EDX and XRD analytical techniques; Analysis of the various absorptions of three Ru-based dyes using UV-Vis spectroscopy, Photoluminescence and Fourier Transform Infra-Red spectroscopy; the characterization and the analyses of the entire cell using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy. The nine cells were prepared by examining RuL2(CN)2 , RuL2(NCS)2 or N3 dye and RuL2(NCS)2 TBA+ or N719 dye. [L = 2,2'-bipyridyl-4,4'-dicarboxylic acid ;TBA = tetra-butyl ammonium] were combined with three electrolytes namely: Z–150 , AN–50 and PN–50. The Iodolyte PN–50 is an iodide based low viscosity electrolyte with 50 mM of tri-iodide dissolved in a solvent called propionitrile (PN). The Iodolyte AN–50 is an iodide based low viscosity electrolyte with 50 mM of tri-iodide dissolved in a solvent called acetonitrile (AN). The Iodolyte Z–150 is an iodide based low viscosity electrolyte with 150 mM of tri-iodide dissolved in a solvent called 3-methoxypropionitrile (MPN) and with additives such an ionic liquid, malkylbenziimidazole and guanidine thiocyanate. A solar simulator was utilized with which the standard solar irradiation can be created in laboratory conditions. The fill factors as well as overall performance efficiencies of the these cells are quite low < 1.0%,.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Caga, Noloyiso
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Dye-sensitized solar cells , Acetonitrile , Electrochemistry , Spectrum analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Chemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11341 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016069 , Dye-sensitized solar cells , Acetonitrile , Electrochemistry , Spectrum analysis
- Description: In this study a presentation of the technology behind dye-sensitized solar cells, their design as well as the role of the different parts of the cell. The characterization of the cell is divided into four sections namely: the characterization of the paste required to make the TiO2 film and its optical properties using SEM-EDX and XRD analytical techniques; Analysis of the various absorptions of three Ru-based dyes using UV-Vis spectroscopy, Photoluminescence and Fourier Transform Infra-Red spectroscopy; the characterization and the analyses of the entire cell using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy. The nine cells were prepared by examining RuL2(CN)2 , RuL2(NCS)2 or N3 dye and RuL2(NCS)2 TBA+ or N719 dye. [L = 2,2'-bipyridyl-4,4'-dicarboxylic acid ;TBA = tetra-butyl ammonium] were combined with three electrolytes namely: Z–150 , AN–50 and PN–50. The Iodolyte PN–50 is an iodide based low viscosity electrolyte with 50 mM of tri-iodide dissolved in a solvent called propionitrile (PN). The Iodolyte AN–50 is an iodide based low viscosity electrolyte with 50 mM of tri-iodide dissolved in a solvent called acetonitrile (AN). The Iodolyte Z–150 is an iodide based low viscosity electrolyte with 150 mM of tri-iodide dissolved in a solvent called 3-methoxypropionitrile (MPN) and with additives such an ionic liquid, malkylbenziimidazole and guanidine thiocyanate. A solar simulator was utilized with which the standard solar irradiation can be created in laboratory conditions. The fill factors as well as overall performance efficiencies of the these cells are quite low < 1.0%,.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
An investigation of strategies used by school principals in promoting professional development among teaching staff in the Keiskammahoek area
- Authors: Kebeni, Mputumi
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16217 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1018603
- Description: The fusion of the different Departments of Education after 1994 resulted in many changes in the education system of South Africa, which created confusion and uncertainty among educators. Among the changes was the introduction of the National Curriculum Statement and Outcomes-Based Education that was intended to transform teaching and learning in schools. To prepare educators for the myriad of changes, short courses were conducted via the cascade model, but these proved largely ineffective and educators have been crying out for proper Professional Development programmes to better prepare them for their crucial roles in the new South Africa. Amongst the many challenges in rural areas, multi-grade and multi-phase teaching is prevalent. Most educators were not adequately prepared for these during teacher training. The poor quality of training and lack of professional development have resulted in feelings of frustration and inadequacy among educators. To ameliorate the situation, the Department of Education instituted the Integrated Quality Management System (IQMS), aimed at improving the quality of learning and teaching by empowering, motivating and training educators. However, professional development has remained elusive as the IQMS is not properly used since it has been characterised by political interference, and seems almost exclusively focused on salary progression. At the end of the day, it is often the overworked and over-burdened school principal who is attempting to provide professional development for staff, with little or no help from outside sources. Very little research that has been undertaken into what it is that rural school principals actually do to develop staff. The researcher has attempted to understand how principals undertake the professional development of educators, given that many are in remote and resource-poor areas, which makes development very difficult. Added to this is the heavy workload and burden of classroom teaching which many of the principals face, especially those in remote areas, where smaller schools are the norm. The researcher explored different strategies which school principals can use for the professional development of their staff before going to the field to see what it is that principals are actually doing. School principals are strategically situated to play a significant role in improving the quality of teaching and learning, as the success and failure of their schools rest on their shoulders. Every study is located within a paradigm. The paradigm used in this study is the interpretivist one, as it allowed the researcher to investigate the meanings and the interpretation of the social actors in a particular situation. Hermeneutic theory within a qualitative research approach was used, as its main concern is an understanding of the way in which individuals construct, modify and interpret the world in which they find themselves. The research design used was semi-structured interviews, chosen to elicit information from the participants about professional development in their schools. Interview questions were prepared that emanated from the main research question. Through fieldwork, the researcher developed an understanding of the challenges that face the principals, and of the strategies they use to promote professional growth and development. It was discovered that principals in smaller rural schools in Keiskammahoek make extensive use of delegation as a developmental tool, but that while there are other attempts to develop staff, there seems to be very little comprehensive planning or execution of professional development. Recommendations made are that school principals should use workshops regularly, encourage educators to plan together and monitor such planning, delegate duties, encourage group and team work among the teachers, implement the IQMS and encourage mentoring and coaching for development purposes. School principals should jointly form forums and clusters that are aimed at professional growth and development. Principals should also take initiative in professional development, even if they are faced with difficult situations and conditions. The Department of Education should invest in education by ensuring that all educators, no matter where they teach, should enjoy continuous professional development to improve the quality of learning and teaching in schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Kebeni, Mputumi
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16217 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1018603
- Description: The fusion of the different Departments of Education after 1994 resulted in many changes in the education system of South Africa, which created confusion and uncertainty among educators. Among the changes was the introduction of the National Curriculum Statement and Outcomes-Based Education that was intended to transform teaching and learning in schools. To prepare educators for the myriad of changes, short courses were conducted via the cascade model, but these proved largely ineffective and educators have been crying out for proper Professional Development programmes to better prepare them for their crucial roles in the new South Africa. Amongst the many challenges in rural areas, multi-grade and multi-phase teaching is prevalent. Most educators were not adequately prepared for these during teacher training. The poor quality of training and lack of professional development have resulted in feelings of frustration and inadequacy among educators. To ameliorate the situation, the Department of Education instituted the Integrated Quality Management System (IQMS), aimed at improving the quality of learning and teaching by empowering, motivating and training educators. However, professional development has remained elusive as the IQMS is not properly used since it has been characterised by political interference, and seems almost exclusively focused on salary progression. At the end of the day, it is often the overworked and over-burdened school principal who is attempting to provide professional development for staff, with little or no help from outside sources. Very little research that has been undertaken into what it is that rural school principals actually do to develop staff. The researcher has attempted to understand how principals undertake the professional development of educators, given that many are in remote and resource-poor areas, which makes development very difficult. Added to this is the heavy workload and burden of classroom teaching which many of the principals face, especially those in remote areas, where smaller schools are the norm. The researcher explored different strategies which school principals can use for the professional development of their staff before going to the field to see what it is that principals are actually doing. School principals are strategically situated to play a significant role in improving the quality of teaching and learning, as the success and failure of their schools rest on their shoulders. Every study is located within a paradigm. The paradigm used in this study is the interpretivist one, as it allowed the researcher to investigate the meanings and the interpretation of the social actors in a particular situation. Hermeneutic theory within a qualitative research approach was used, as its main concern is an understanding of the way in which individuals construct, modify and interpret the world in which they find themselves. The research design used was semi-structured interviews, chosen to elicit information from the participants about professional development in their schools. Interview questions were prepared that emanated from the main research question. Through fieldwork, the researcher developed an understanding of the challenges that face the principals, and of the strategies they use to promote professional growth and development. It was discovered that principals in smaller rural schools in Keiskammahoek make extensive use of delegation as a developmental tool, but that while there are other attempts to develop staff, there seems to be very little comprehensive planning or execution of professional development. Recommendations made are that school principals should use workshops regularly, encourage educators to plan together and monitor such planning, delegate duties, encourage group and team work among the teachers, implement the IQMS and encourage mentoring and coaching for development purposes. School principals should jointly form forums and clusters that are aimed at professional growth and development. Principals should also take initiative in professional development, even if they are faced with difficult situations and conditions. The Department of Education should invest in education by ensuring that all educators, no matter where they teach, should enjoy continuous professional development to improve the quality of learning and teaching in schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
An analysis of business skills and training needs in the plastic manufacturing industry in the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Macheke, Richard
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Plastics industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employees -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Success in business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Vocational guidance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Skilled labor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Unskilled labor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11322 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007118 , Plastics industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employees -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Success in business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Vocational guidance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Skilled labor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Unskilled labor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Skills development is one of the major challenges faced by South Africans, with more than 60 percent of the labour force being unskilled. This affects many industries around the country as are they forced to employ unskilled employees a development which has a negative bearing on the quality of products having a negative bearing on the quality of products. The Plastic Manufacturing Industry in the Eastern Cape Province is a prime example of firms that are affected by the short supply of skilled personnel on the labour market. Required skills range from business skills that are essential for the operating of a business, to technical skills that are essential for the employees who are involved in the production of goods and services. Training in skills has been proven to be a key to success. The primary objective of this study was to undertake an analysis concerning the significance of business skills and training needs for business success. Secondary objectives were to determine whether training in business skills as well as technical skills for the employees, could bring on success to the business. The study further went on to investigate the importance of training programmes for businesses. Research methodology included literature review and an empirical study, making use of the survey method through self-administered questionnaires. The statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, frequencies, Chi-square tests and linear regression and ANOVA. The Cronbach’s alpha was used to measure reliability of the research results. The research findings established that training in business skills and related types of skills was essential for the success of a business. The findings further showed that, due to training, there was improvement in sales, annual turnover, and product quality and employee skills. Recommendations included advice to invest in human capital through training which then should improve the quality of products. Further studies in other regions other than the Eastern Cape Province were recommended.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Macheke, Richard
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Plastics industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employees -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Success in business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Vocational guidance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Skilled labor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Unskilled labor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11322 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007118 , Plastics industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employees -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Success in business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Vocational guidance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Skilled labor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Unskilled labor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Skills development is one of the major challenges faced by South Africans, with more than 60 percent of the labour force being unskilled. This affects many industries around the country as are they forced to employ unskilled employees a development which has a negative bearing on the quality of products having a negative bearing on the quality of products. The Plastic Manufacturing Industry in the Eastern Cape Province is a prime example of firms that are affected by the short supply of skilled personnel on the labour market. Required skills range from business skills that are essential for the operating of a business, to technical skills that are essential for the employees who are involved in the production of goods and services. Training in skills has been proven to be a key to success. The primary objective of this study was to undertake an analysis concerning the significance of business skills and training needs for business success. Secondary objectives were to determine whether training in business skills as well as technical skills for the employees, could bring on success to the business. The study further went on to investigate the importance of training programmes for businesses. Research methodology included literature review and an empirical study, making use of the survey method through self-administered questionnaires. The statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, frequencies, Chi-square tests and linear regression and ANOVA. The Cronbach’s alpha was used to measure reliability of the research results. The research findings established that training in business skills and related types of skills was essential for the success of a business. The findings further showed that, due to training, there was improvement in sales, annual turnover, and product quality and employee skills. Recommendations included advice to invest in human capital through training which then should improve the quality of products. Further studies in other regions other than the Eastern Cape Province were recommended.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Challenges and prospects of quality primary education in Zimbabwe rural schools: a case study of Kadoma rural schools
- Authors: Mazise, Amos
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Rural schools -- Zimbabwe Case studies , Education, Primary -- Zimbabwe Case studies , School management and organization -- Zimbabwe Case studies , Schools -- Zimbabwe -- Evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Dev)
- Identifier: vital:11428 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/569 , Rural schools -- Zimbabwe Case studies , Education, Primary -- Zimbabwe Case studies , School management and organization -- Zimbabwe Case studies , Schools -- Zimbabwe -- Evaluation
- Description: The study focused on investigating challenges and prospects of quality education in rural primary schools in developing countries particularly in Zimbabwe. Reviewed literature indicated that two theories; education as human capital and education as human right advanced increased access to education. Decline of quality of education in the expansion programme portrayed by the decrease of pass rates to below 50 percent, pupils’ low literacy and numeracy prompted investigation. A case study of Ngezi rural primary schools was explored using a sample of 50 respondents selected through stratified random technique. Data were gathered by a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods defined as triangulation. Self- administered questionnaires for heads and teachers, interview guide for grade 7 pupils and SDC and observation guide were the instruments employed for data collection. Analysis of the data was done using descriptive statistics. Findings were that quality of universal education was affected by inadequate supporting inputs and facilities, inappropriate teaching methods and unmotivated teachers. However 80 percent of the schools were staffed with qualified teachers depicting government’s commitment to quality education. 40 % of the schools without qualified leadership were indicative of the effect of poor school conditions to staff turn up. In studies carried out in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and India quality also declined as access was increased due to similar causes. Recommendations were to create a strong collaboration among stakeholders through communication to ensure the four conditions for quality are met simultaneously as they are interdependent and reforming the curriculum to suit means and needs of the people.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Mazise, Amos
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Rural schools -- Zimbabwe Case studies , Education, Primary -- Zimbabwe Case studies , School management and organization -- Zimbabwe Case studies , Schools -- Zimbabwe -- Evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Dev)
- Identifier: vital:11428 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/569 , Rural schools -- Zimbabwe Case studies , Education, Primary -- Zimbabwe Case studies , School management and organization -- Zimbabwe Case studies , Schools -- Zimbabwe -- Evaluation
- Description: The study focused on investigating challenges and prospects of quality education in rural primary schools in developing countries particularly in Zimbabwe. Reviewed literature indicated that two theories; education as human capital and education as human right advanced increased access to education. Decline of quality of education in the expansion programme portrayed by the decrease of pass rates to below 50 percent, pupils’ low literacy and numeracy prompted investigation. A case study of Ngezi rural primary schools was explored using a sample of 50 respondents selected through stratified random technique. Data were gathered by a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods defined as triangulation. Self- administered questionnaires for heads and teachers, interview guide for grade 7 pupils and SDC and observation guide were the instruments employed for data collection. Analysis of the data was done using descriptive statistics. Findings were that quality of universal education was affected by inadequate supporting inputs and facilities, inappropriate teaching methods and unmotivated teachers. However 80 percent of the schools were staffed with qualified teachers depicting government’s commitment to quality education. 40 % of the schools without qualified leadership were indicative of the effect of poor school conditions to staff turn up. In studies carried out in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and India quality also declined as access was increased due to similar causes. Recommendations were to create a strong collaboration among stakeholders through communication to ensure the four conditions for quality are met simultaneously as they are interdependent and reforming the curriculum to suit means and needs of the people.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
An analysis of groundwater in Mjinchi District of Central Malawi
- Authors: Mleta, Prince W C
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Groundwater -- Malawi , Water-supply -- Malawi
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Geography)
- Identifier: vital:11510 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/366 , Groundwater -- Malawi , Water-supply -- Malawi
- Description: Groundwater resources is the major source of potable water in Mchinji District of Central Malawi and globally. Although the total amount of water on and under the earth‟s surface is generally assumed to have remained constant, the rapid population boom coupled with extension of agricultural farmland and industrial development are putting pressure and stress on the quality and quantity of water resources. In principal therefore, „use and discard‟ philosophy in water resources cannot be subscribed (Lloyd, 1999). The situation ultimately calls for rational management of water resources to ensure its sustainability. Water intended for human consumption must be free from organisms that are the causative agents of diseases and must not contain chemical substances at concentrations that may be hazardous to human health. In addition drinking water should be aesthetically acceptable, free from unpleasant taste, color, odor and turbidity. Drinking water should also be free from bacteria and viruses whose presence would indicate fecal contamination. Some are known to be toxic and their concentrations must be below acceptable value, taking into account that drinking water is but one of the several pathways by which substances enters the body. ix Due to perceived concerns of over extraction and rapid water resources depletion, optimal management of groundwater resources are now receiving much attention. Their associated literatures have taken quite different approaches both philosophically and operationally to the analysis of how groundwater should be managed, allocated and cared for spatially and temporally. This study investigated the spatial and temporal fluctuations of concentrations of chemical and biological substances in groundwater such as pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, iron, fluoride, manganese, chloride, sulfates, sodium and fecal coliform in Mchinji District of Central Malawi. Through examination and analysis of static water levels as an indicator of water table fluctuations, groundwater availability was also measured. It was found that anthropogenic activities on the landscape can impact the quality and quantity of the water resources in this area and this impact on the various sectors of the inhabitant‟s livelihoods. Groundwater in Mchinji is composed of a number of chemical and biological elements whose origin is either from the material in which it percolates through, or stored before exploitation. Anthropogenic activities in this area plays a role in the quality and quantity of groundwater through land use and land cover change as evidenced by comparisons of Landsat Thematic x Mapper™ satellite images over different time scales. In Mchinji no regular groundwater monitoring is being done indicating a deficiency in sustainability interventions of the resource. This study calls for integrated and sustainable water resources management and coordinated efforts amongst water users, local councils, regulatory authorities and environmental policy makers. Of far greater importance in groundwater sustainability analysis is the issue of groundwater monitoring. It is imperative therefore to preserve the resource while preservation is still possible. Groundwater is now turning into „blue gold‟ and becoming a highly sought-after commodity. It should, however, be utilized sustainably to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Mleta, Prince W C
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Groundwater -- Malawi , Water-supply -- Malawi
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Geography)
- Identifier: vital:11510 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/366 , Groundwater -- Malawi , Water-supply -- Malawi
- Description: Groundwater resources is the major source of potable water in Mchinji District of Central Malawi and globally. Although the total amount of water on and under the earth‟s surface is generally assumed to have remained constant, the rapid population boom coupled with extension of agricultural farmland and industrial development are putting pressure and stress on the quality and quantity of water resources. In principal therefore, „use and discard‟ philosophy in water resources cannot be subscribed (Lloyd, 1999). The situation ultimately calls for rational management of water resources to ensure its sustainability. Water intended for human consumption must be free from organisms that are the causative agents of diseases and must not contain chemical substances at concentrations that may be hazardous to human health. In addition drinking water should be aesthetically acceptable, free from unpleasant taste, color, odor and turbidity. Drinking water should also be free from bacteria and viruses whose presence would indicate fecal contamination. Some are known to be toxic and their concentrations must be below acceptable value, taking into account that drinking water is but one of the several pathways by which substances enters the body. ix Due to perceived concerns of over extraction and rapid water resources depletion, optimal management of groundwater resources are now receiving much attention. Their associated literatures have taken quite different approaches both philosophically and operationally to the analysis of how groundwater should be managed, allocated and cared for spatially and temporally. This study investigated the spatial and temporal fluctuations of concentrations of chemical and biological substances in groundwater such as pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, iron, fluoride, manganese, chloride, sulfates, sodium and fecal coliform in Mchinji District of Central Malawi. Through examination and analysis of static water levels as an indicator of water table fluctuations, groundwater availability was also measured. It was found that anthropogenic activities on the landscape can impact the quality and quantity of the water resources in this area and this impact on the various sectors of the inhabitant‟s livelihoods. Groundwater in Mchinji is composed of a number of chemical and biological elements whose origin is either from the material in which it percolates through, or stored before exploitation. Anthropogenic activities in this area plays a role in the quality and quantity of groundwater through land use and land cover change as evidenced by comparisons of Landsat Thematic x Mapper™ satellite images over different time scales. In Mchinji no regular groundwater monitoring is being done indicating a deficiency in sustainability interventions of the resource. This study calls for integrated and sustainable water resources management and coordinated efforts amongst water users, local councils, regulatory authorities and environmental policy makers. Of far greater importance in groundwater sustainability analysis is the issue of groundwater monitoring. It is imperative therefore to preserve the resource while preservation is still possible. Groundwater is now turning into „blue gold‟ and becoming a highly sought-after commodity. It should, however, be utilized sustainably to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Lithostratigraphy sedimentology and provenance of the Balfour Formation Beaufort Group in the Fort Beaufort Alice area Eastern Cape Province South Africa
- Authors: Katemaunzanga, David
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Sedimentary structures -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Formations (Geology) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Geology)
- Identifier: vital:11521 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/274 , Sedimentary structures -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Formations (Geology) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: A traverse through the Balfour Formation was chosen in the area around the towns of Fort Beaufort and Alice in the Eastern Cape Province. The main objectives of the study were to map the lithological variations within the Balfour Formation and to distinguish it from the underlying Middleton Formation and the overlying Katberg Formation. A combined desktop, field and laboratory approach was used in this study. Aerial photographs, satellite images and digital topographical maps formed the basis of the desktop work. After desktop mapping, a number of field traverses were measured through the study area. Sedimentary structures were observed, photomosaics were done, stratigraphic sections were measured and samples were collected for thin sectioning, heavy mineral separation and major, trace and REE analysis. Sedimentological development of the Balfour Formation has been outlined in relation to its provenance during the Late Permian. Lithological variation of the Balfour Formation is characterised by alternating sandstone-dominated and mudstone-dominated members. Arenaceous Oudeberg and Barberskrans Members are contain facies ranging from intraformational conglomerates (Gmm), massive sandstones (Sm & Ss), horizontally laminated sandstones (Sh), planar and trough cross-bedded sandstones (Sp, Sl & St), trough cross-laminated sandstones (Sr) and fine-grained sediments (Fm & Fl), whereas the mudstone dominated members are characterised by the facies Fm and Fl. Lithofacies together with bedforms observed in the Balfour Formation were used in architecturalelement analysis. Sandstone–rich members are dominated by channel fill elements such as LS, DA, SB, LA and CH, whereas the fine-grained component consists of mainly, FF iii element. The mudstone-dominated members contain FF, CS and LV elements, with LA, SB and CH in the subordinate sandstones. Petrography, geochemistry and palaeocurrent analysis indicated that the source of the Balfour Formation was to the south-east and the rocks had a transitional/dissected magmatic arc signature. This led to the postulation of the Karoo Basin to have developed in a retro-arc foreland basin where there was supralithospheric loading in the Cape Fold Belt due to a compressional regime initiated by the subduction of Palaeo-Pacific plate underneath the Gondwana plate. The tectonic loading was episodic with eight major paroxysms affecting the Karoo Supergroup. The Balfour Formation coincides with the fourth paroxysm, this paroxysm in turn consists of two third-order paroxysm that initiated the deposition of the Oudeberg and Barberskrans Members in low sinuosity streams. Each paroxysm was followed by a period of quiescence and these resulted in the deposition of the Daggaboersnek, Elandsberg and Palingkloof Members in meandering streams. Depositional environments were determined mainly from the sedimentary structures and 3D architecture of the rock types. Sandstone rich members were formed by seasonal and ephemeral high energy low sinuous streams whereas the fine-grained rich members were formed by ephemeral meandering streams. Palaeoclimates have been equated to the present temperate climates; they were semi-arid becoming arid towards the top of the Balfour Formation. This has been determined geochemistry (CIA), sedimentary structures and other rock properties like colour.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Katemaunzanga, David
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Sedimentary structures -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Formations (Geology) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Geology)
- Identifier: vital:11521 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/274 , Sedimentary structures -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Formations (Geology) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: A traverse through the Balfour Formation was chosen in the area around the towns of Fort Beaufort and Alice in the Eastern Cape Province. The main objectives of the study were to map the lithological variations within the Balfour Formation and to distinguish it from the underlying Middleton Formation and the overlying Katberg Formation. A combined desktop, field and laboratory approach was used in this study. Aerial photographs, satellite images and digital topographical maps formed the basis of the desktop work. After desktop mapping, a number of field traverses were measured through the study area. Sedimentary structures were observed, photomosaics were done, stratigraphic sections were measured and samples were collected for thin sectioning, heavy mineral separation and major, trace and REE analysis. Sedimentological development of the Balfour Formation has been outlined in relation to its provenance during the Late Permian. Lithological variation of the Balfour Formation is characterised by alternating sandstone-dominated and mudstone-dominated members. Arenaceous Oudeberg and Barberskrans Members are contain facies ranging from intraformational conglomerates (Gmm), massive sandstones (Sm & Ss), horizontally laminated sandstones (Sh), planar and trough cross-bedded sandstones (Sp, Sl & St), trough cross-laminated sandstones (Sr) and fine-grained sediments (Fm & Fl), whereas the mudstone dominated members are characterised by the facies Fm and Fl. Lithofacies together with bedforms observed in the Balfour Formation were used in architecturalelement analysis. Sandstone–rich members are dominated by channel fill elements such as LS, DA, SB, LA and CH, whereas the fine-grained component consists of mainly, FF iii element. The mudstone-dominated members contain FF, CS and LV elements, with LA, SB and CH in the subordinate sandstones. Petrography, geochemistry and palaeocurrent analysis indicated that the source of the Balfour Formation was to the south-east and the rocks had a transitional/dissected magmatic arc signature. This led to the postulation of the Karoo Basin to have developed in a retro-arc foreland basin where there was supralithospheric loading in the Cape Fold Belt due to a compressional regime initiated by the subduction of Palaeo-Pacific plate underneath the Gondwana plate. The tectonic loading was episodic with eight major paroxysms affecting the Karoo Supergroup. The Balfour Formation coincides with the fourth paroxysm, this paroxysm in turn consists of two third-order paroxysm that initiated the deposition of the Oudeberg and Barberskrans Members in low sinuosity streams. Each paroxysm was followed by a period of quiescence and these resulted in the deposition of the Daggaboersnek, Elandsberg and Palingkloof Members in meandering streams. Depositional environments were determined mainly from the sedimentary structures and 3D architecture of the rock types. Sandstone rich members were formed by seasonal and ephemeral high energy low sinuous streams whereas the fine-grained rich members were formed by ephemeral meandering streams. Palaeoclimates have been equated to the present temperate climates; they were semi-arid becoming arid towards the top of the Balfour Formation. This has been determined geochemistry (CIA), sedimentary structures and other rock properties like colour.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
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