Evaluation of functionalized silver and silica nanoparticles for the removal of deoxyribonucleic acid conveying antibiotics resistance genes from water
- Authors: Ezeuko, Adaora Stella
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: DNA , Silica , Water
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27765 , vital:69414
- Description: Antibiotic resistance genes ARGs are recognized as a serious public health emergency linked to extensive use of antibiotics by humans and animals as a prophylactic agent that treats and prevents infections. The occurrence of high concentrations being identified in wastewater treatment plants, rivers, etc is due to untreated effluents being discharged from households, hospitals, agriculture, and pharmaceutical industries. The application of adequate treatment techniques and material for the removal of bacteria DNA conveying ARGs from the effluents before their release to the environment cannot be overemphasized. Adsorption techniques seem to be effective due to their easy design, operation, and ability to regenerate adsorbents for use without producing toxic by-products. This concept was employed for the removal of bacteria DNA conveying ARGs from simulated aqueous solution, effluents from hospital, river and WWTPs using silver and silica metallic nanoparticles. This thesis investigated the effectiveness of metallic nanoparticles containing silver AgNPs and mesoporous silica nanoparticles MSNPs as well as magnetite Fe3O4 functionalized with 4 4hydroxyphenyl 2 262-terpyridine onto their surface, for the removal of bacteria DNA conveying antibiotic resistance genes from water samples from hospitals, river, and wastewater treatment plants WWTPs. Silver nanoparticles AgNPs of different molar concentrations 0.1M, 0.5M and 1.0 M and mesoporous silica nanoparticles MSNPs adsorbents were successfully synthesized in their original states and surface functionalization achieved by incorporating magnetite Fe3O4 and 4 4 hydroxyphenyl 2 2 6 2 terpyridine on the silver AgNPs Fe3O4 and silica MSNPs TPPY surfaces respectively. Their effectiveness as adsorbent for the removal of bacteria DNA conveying ARGs from aqueous solutions and real water/wastewater samples were investigated. The DNA uptake by the as-synthesized AgNPs and MSNPs were compared to the functionalized AgNPs Fe3O4 and MSNPsTPPY by determining the adsorbents with the highest removal efficiencies. All as synthesized and functionalized adsorbents were characterized by SEM, EDX, FTIR, XRD, UV spectroscopy and PZC before the removal process. The extraction of genomic DNA from antibiotic-resistant Enterococcus faecium and Vibrio parahaemolyticus was successfully achieved via the boiling method. Antibiotic susceptibility test was conducted using the disk diffusion method before the commencement of genomic DNA extraction. Molecular characterization via gel electrophoresis confirmed the presence of resistance genes at different base pairs. Adsorption batch experiment were investigated, and the best optimum parameters were evaluated through the influence of pH, contact time, initial DNA concentration, adsorbent dose, and competitive ions for each sorption process. The rate determining step were determined by fitting kinetic models such as Natarajan and Khalaf first order, pseudo first order, pseudo second order, Elovich model to experimental data. Also, the adsorption mechanisms determining adsorption equilibrium were investigated by fitting Freundlich, Langmuir and Sips model into the experimental data. The application of AgNPsFe3O4 nanocomposite and MSNPsTPPY for the removal of bacteria DNA demonstrated much enhancement for DNA uptake than the as-synthesized AgNPs and MSNPs materials. The incorporation of magnetite and 4 4hydroxyphenyl 2 2 6 2-terpyridine onto AgNPs and MSNPs significantly enhanced the binding affinity towards the removal the bacteria DNA via strong electrostatic attraction between the active sites on the adsorbent and the negative DNA molecules. Finally, high adsorption capacities were recorded with AgNPsFe3O4 nanocomposite and MSNPsTPPY compared to AgNPs and MSNPs with chaotropic salts. The kinetic adsorption models were mostly best fitted by the pseudo-second order and Elovich models while the adsorption equilibrium was best described by Langmuir and Sips isotherm models. MSNPs with different chaotropic salts, AgNPsFe3O4 nanocomposite and MSNPsTPPY also proved its effectiveness in DNA removal not only in the simulated aqueous solution but in three different real life water samples obtained from Cofimvaba hospital, Ndevana river and Uitenhage WWTPs. High adsorption efficiencies above 90 percent were achieved during the removal of DNA in all the three real water samples. Therefore, application of these adsorbents for the removal of bacteria DNA conveying ARGs may be a promising option that would tackle the consequences of consuming ARGs infected water globally. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ezeuko, Adaora Stella
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: DNA , Silica , Water
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27765 , vital:69414
- Description: Antibiotic resistance genes ARGs are recognized as a serious public health emergency linked to extensive use of antibiotics by humans and animals as a prophylactic agent that treats and prevents infections. The occurrence of high concentrations being identified in wastewater treatment plants, rivers, etc is due to untreated effluents being discharged from households, hospitals, agriculture, and pharmaceutical industries. The application of adequate treatment techniques and material for the removal of bacteria DNA conveying ARGs from the effluents before their release to the environment cannot be overemphasized. Adsorption techniques seem to be effective due to their easy design, operation, and ability to regenerate adsorbents for use without producing toxic by-products. This concept was employed for the removal of bacteria DNA conveying ARGs from simulated aqueous solution, effluents from hospital, river and WWTPs using silver and silica metallic nanoparticles. This thesis investigated the effectiveness of metallic nanoparticles containing silver AgNPs and mesoporous silica nanoparticles MSNPs as well as magnetite Fe3O4 functionalized with 4 4hydroxyphenyl 2 262-terpyridine onto their surface, for the removal of bacteria DNA conveying antibiotic resistance genes from water samples from hospitals, river, and wastewater treatment plants WWTPs. Silver nanoparticles AgNPs of different molar concentrations 0.1M, 0.5M and 1.0 M and mesoporous silica nanoparticles MSNPs adsorbents were successfully synthesized in their original states and surface functionalization achieved by incorporating magnetite Fe3O4 and 4 4 hydroxyphenyl 2 2 6 2 terpyridine on the silver AgNPs Fe3O4 and silica MSNPs TPPY surfaces respectively. Their effectiveness as adsorbent for the removal of bacteria DNA conveying ARGs from aqueous solutions and real water/wastewater samples were investigated. The DNA uptake by the as-synthesized AgNPs and MSNPs were compared to the functionalized AgNPs Fe3O4 and MSNPsTPPY by determining the adsorbents with the highest removal efficiencies. All as synthesized and functionalized adsorbents were characterized by SEM, EDX, FTIR, XRD, UV spectroscopy and PZC before the removal process. The extraction of genomic DNA from antibiotic-resistant Enterococcus faecium and Vibrio parahaemolyticus was successfully achieved via the boiling method. Antibiotic susceptibility test was conducted using the disk diffusion method before the commencement of genomic DNA extraction. Molecular characterization via gel electrophoresis confirmed the presence of resistance genes at different base pairs. Adsorption batch experiment were investigated, and the best optimum parameters were evaluated through the influence of pH, contact time, initial DNA concentration, adsorbent dose, and competitive ions for each sorption process. The rate determining step were determined by fitting kinetic models such as Natarajan and Khalaf first order, pseudo first order, pseudo second order, Elovich model to experimental data. Also, the adsorption mechanisms determining adsorption equilibrium were investigated by fitting Freundlich, Langmuir and Sips model into the experimental data. The application of AgNPsFe3O4 nanocomposite and MSNPsTPPY for the removal of bacteria DNA demonstrated much enhancement for DNA uptake than the as-synthesized AgNPs and MSNPs materials. The incorporation of magnetite and 4 4hydroxyphenyl 2 2 6 2-terpyridine onto AgNPs and MSNPs significantly enhanced the binding affinity towards the removal the bacteria DNA via strong electrostatic attraction between the active sites on the adsorbent and the negative DNA molecules. Finally, high adsorption capacities were recorded with AgNPsFe3O4 nanocomposite and MSNPsTPPY compared to AgNPs and MSNPs with chaotropic salts. The kinetic adsorption models were mostly best fitted by the pseudo-second order and Elovich models while the adsorption equilibrium was best described by Langmuir and Sips isotherm models. MSNPs with different chaotropic salts, AgNPsFe3O4 nanocomposite and MSNPsTPPY also proved its effectiveness in DNA removal not only in the simulated aqueous solution but in three different real life water samples obtained from Cofimvaba hospital, Ndevana river and Uitenhage WWTPs. High adsorption efficiencies above 90 percent were achieved during the removal of DNA in all the three real water samples. Therefore, application of these adsorbents for the removal of bacteria DNA conveying ARGs may be a promising option that would tackle the consequences of consuming ARGs infected water globally. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
- Full Text:
Evaluation of the extent of the public programming by Eastern Cape Provincial Archives and Records Services
- Tshebi, Siyathemba Mboneleli https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2833-9842
- Authors: Tshebi, Siyathemba Mboneleli https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2833-9842
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: Grahamstown (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27663 , vital:69381
- Description: Public programming initiatives are an integral part of archival operations worldwide as they support the greater use of archival records by attracting prospective users and sponsors. Public programming comprises a sequence of strategies for publicizing and marketing archives to the public, which are crucial in archival operations as they promote better use of archives and records. South African National Archives and Records. Services depends on provisions of the National Archives of South Africa Act of 1996 in its strive to promote access and use of archives as sources of information. . unknown and therefore not used to their maximal utility value, likely due to low-key and ineffective archival public programming initiatives. Consequently, the primary purpose of this research study was to evaluate the extent of public programming strategies used by the Eastern Cape Provincial Archives and Records Services (EAPARS). The study used a mixed-method, embracing qualitative and quantitative research approaches. As an integrated record-keeping framework, Record Continuum was used as a theoretical framework to guide the study. Sixteen copies of questionnaire were distributed among staff and users ECPARS. The research uncovered that ECPARS does not have specific regulations and policies on public programming, but relies on the more general provisions of the Provincial Archives and Records Services Act of 1996 as a guiding instrument in executing its public programming operations. The study further revealed various factors, such as the limited budget and inadequate staff, as key hindering factors in the smooth execution of archival public programming plans by ECPARS. The study recommends a review and update by ECPARS of how it can specifically effectively implement the provisions of the 1996 Act to the modern ways of taking public archives to the people. The research also recommends that ECPARS engage additional staff or outsourced services to strengthen its the public programming of its archival resources and services workforce for Eastern Cape Provincial Archives and Records. The study concludes that improved financial resources, use of ICTs, and coherent policy framework, and public awareness creation and education can facilitate better to acquire, widen access to use of its archives. Keyword , Thesis (MLIS) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Authors: Tshebi, Siyathemba Mboneleli https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2833-9842
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: Grahamstown (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27663 , vital:69381
- Description: Public programming initiatives are an integral part of archival operations worldwide as they support the greater use of archival records by attracting prospective users and sponsors. Public programming comprises a sequence of strategies for publicizing and marketing archives to the public, which are crucial in archival operations as they promote better use of archives and records. South African National Archives and Records. Services depends on provisions of the National Archives of South Africa Act of 1996 in its strive to promote access and use of archives as sources of information. . unknown and therefore not used to their maximal utility value, likely due to low-key and ineffective archival public programming initiatives. Consequently, the primary purpose of this research study was to evaluate the extent of public programming strategies used by the Eastern Cape Provincial Archives and Records Services (EAPARS). The study used a mixed-method, embracing qualitative and quantitative research approaches. As an integrated record-keeping framework, Record Continuum was used as a theoretical framework to guide the study. Sixteen copies of questionnaire were distributed among staff and users ECPARS. The research uncovered that ECPARS does not have specific regulations and policies on public programming, but relies on the more general provisions of the Provincial Archives and Records Services Act of 1996 as a guiding instrument in executing its public programming operations. The study further revealed various factors, such as the limited budget and inadequate staff, as key hindering factors in the smooth execution of archival public programming plans by ECPARS. The study recommends a review and update by ECPARS of how it can specifically effectively implement the provisions of the 1996 Act to the modern ways of taking public archives to the people. The research also recommends that ECPARS engage additional staff or outsourced services to strengthen its the public programming of its archival resources and services workforce for Eastern Cape Provincial Archives and Records. The study concludes that improved financial resources, use of ICTs, and coherent policy framework, and public awareness creation and education can facilitate better to acquire, widen access to use of its archives. Keyword , Thesis (MLIS) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
In Silico analysis of Spermidine, Spermine and Putrescine interaction with selected heat shock proteins from Plasmodium falciparum 3D7 towards malaria drug development
- Authors: Godlo, Sesethu
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: Heat shock proteins , Malaria vaccine , Plasmodium falciparum
- Language: English
- Type: Master'stheses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27709 , vital:69395
- Description: Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease that affects around half of the world's population. It is one of the most common parasite infections that endangers human life. One of the most serious issues in malaria therapy is the emergence and spread of antimalarial drug-resistant Plasmodium parasites. This is due to the Plasmodium parasite's constant evolution and development of new methods of surviving medication toxicity. Studies of antimalarial drug development have been focused on polyamine biosynthesis by targeting precursors such as ornithine decarboxylase, adenosylmethionine decarboxylase, and spermidine synthase and protein-protein interactions between Plasmodium falciparum chaperones spotting out Hsp90, Hsp70, and Hsp40 as potential targets with little attention being paid to the interaction between polyamines and molecular chaperones. Therefore, this study seeks to identify interactions between polyamines and molecular chaperones present in the malarial parasite Plasmodium falciparum 3D7. The identification of these interactions might lead to the design of effective drugs to treat and eliminate malaria. Using computational analysis, this study aims to find interactions between polyamines and molecular chaperones found in the malarial parasite Plasmodium falciparum 3D7. The sequences of the selected heat proteins retrieved, and the 3D structures predicted and validated. These structures were docked with polyamines retrieved from PubChem and MD simulations on the docked interactions were performed. Docking revealed common amino acid residues with hydrogen bonds and salt bridges between all receptors and ligands, with glutamine and aspartic acid standing out. MD simulations revealed that when HSP20 and HSP40 transport the ligands, they pop up or are released too quickly. However, HSP60, HSP70, and HSP90 provide optimism since the ligands remain attached to the proteins for a specific amount of time. To further understand and confirm these interactions wet laboratory studies may be carried out in future. , Thesis (MSci) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
- Full Text:
- Authors: Godlo, Sesethu
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: Heat shock proteins , Malaria vaccine , Plasmodium falciparum
- Language: English
- Type: Master'stheses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27709 , vital:69395
- Description: Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease that affects around half of the world's population. It is one of the most common parasite infections that endangers human life. One of the most serious issues in malaria therapy is the emergence and spread of antimalarial drug-resistant Plasmodium parasites. This is due to the Plasmodium parasite's constant evolution and development of new methods of surviving medication toxicity. Studies of antimalarial drug development have been focused on polyamine biosynthesis by targeting precursors such as ornithine decarboxylase, adenosylmethionine decarboxylase, and spermidine synthase and protein-protein interactions between Plasmodium falciparum chaperones spotting out Hsp90, Hsp70, and Hsp40 as potential targets with little attention being paid to the interaction between polyamines and molecular chaperones. Therefore, this study seeks to identify interactions between polyamines and molecular chaperones present in the malarial parasite Plasmodium falciparum 3D7. The identification of these interactions might lead to the design of effective drugs to treat and eliminate malaria. Using computational analysis, this study aims to find interactions between polyamines and molecular chaperones found in the malarial parasite Plasmodium falciparum 3D7. The sequences of the selected heat proteins retrieved, and the 3D structures predicted and validated. These structures were docked with polyamines retrieved from PubChem and MD simulations on the docked interactions were performed. Docking revealed common amino acid residues with hydrogen bonds and salt bridges between all receptors and ligands, with glutamine and aspartic acid standing out. MD simulations revealed that when HSP20 and HSP40 transport the ligands, they pop up or are released too quickly. However, HSP60, HSP70, and HSP90 provide optimism since the ligands remain attached to the proteins for a specific amount of time. To further understand and confirm these interactions wet laboratory studies may be carried out in future. , Thesis (MSci) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
- Full Text:
Indifference and Epistemic Injustice: Phenomenological Reflections
- Roos,R
- Authors: Roos,R
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: Epistemic logic , Virtue epistemology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27150 , vital:66324
- Description: The proposed research seeks to address salient questions concerning the relation of indifference and epistemic injustice. This involves questions dealing with the necessary and sufficient conditions for indifference; how it arises through our conditions of lived experience and how it extends to the production, maintenance and engagement with knowledge. In short, to what extent does indifference play a role in epistemic injustice? Conversely, to what extent does epistemic injustice relate to indifference? The proposed research will explore major concepts of the relation between indifference and epistemic injustice. The research will settle on a phenomenological approach. Its claim is that major contemporary concepts of indifference and injustice can be critically informed by a phenomenological analysis of these concepts. Thus, it will attempt to analyse the relation of indifference and injustice from within the context of our lived conditions of experience. Ultimately, this research will try to locate the similarities between the experience of indifference and the act of epistemic injustice. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Authors: Roos,R
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: Epistemic logic , Virtue epistemology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27150 , vital:66324
- Description: The proposed research seeks to address salient questions concerning the relation of indifference and epistemic injustice. This involves questions dealing with the necessary and sufficient conditions for indifference; how it arises through our conditions of lived experience and how it extends to the production, maintenance and engagement with knowledge. In short, to what extent does indifference play a role in epistemic injustice? Conversely, to what extent does epistemic injustice relate to indifference? The proposed research will explore major concepts of the relation between indifference and epistemic injustice. The research will settle on a phenomenological approach. Its claim is that major contemporary concepts of indifference and injustice can be critically informed by a phenomenological analysis of these concepts. Thus, it will attempt to analyse the relation of indifference and injustice from within the context of our lived conditions of experience. Ultimately, this research will try to locate the similarities between the experience of indifference and the act of epistemic injustice. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
Preparation, characterization, and in vitro evaluation of polymer-based wound dressings for the management of chronic wounds
- Authors: Alven, Sibusiso
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: Toxicity testing -- In vitro , Wound healing , Chronic diseases
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27992 , vital:71414
- Description: Microbial infections are responsible for the retarded recovery process of chronic wounds. Polymer-based scaffolds possess features suitable for the treatment of chronic injuries. However, these scaffolds are commonly encapsulated with therapeutic agents to enhance their biological activities, including antibacterial efficacy. In this research, two types of polymer-based scaffolds were formulated and evaluated as effective formulations for the treatment of chronic wounds: sponges and topical gels. Sponges were formulated from cross-linking of gelatin and PEG. Ag nanoparticles and metronidazole were incorporated into the sponges to improve their antibacterial activity. Topical gels were loaded with essential oils and Ag nanoparticles and prepared from CMC and poloxamer. The prepared sponges and topical gels were evaluated using various analysis and characterization techniques. SEM/EDX, FTIR, and TGA were employed to characterize gelatin/PEG hybrid sponges followed by porosity, in vitro biodegradability, cytotoxicity, and antibacterial studies. FTIR, SEM/EDX, and TGA confirmed their physicochemical properties and successful fabrication of sponges loaded with metronidazole and Ag nanoparticles. The sponges were biodegradable, indicating their capability to induce skin regeneration. The drug release studies showed a rapid release of metronidazole 28.32-71.97 percent from the sponges over the first hour, followed by a sustained drug release. The Ag nanoparticles were released in a sustained manner, suggesting that these sponges can rapidly destroy bacteria and inhibit persisting bacterial infections as well as protect the lesion bed from further bacteria infections. The in vitro antibacterial studies of sponges displayed superior antibacterial activity against most of the Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria strains commonly found in chronic wound infections with a MIC value of 15.625 μg/mL. In vitro cytotoxicity experiments revealed excellent biocompatibility with a percent cell viability of more than 70 percent. The in vitro wound scratch healing assay exhibited that the sponges encapsulated with only metronidazole promoted high cell migration than the dual drug-loaded sponges and untreated cells, suggesting its potential to quicken the wound healing process. CMC/Poloxamer topical gels were also characterized by FTIR, followed by pH, viscosity, spreadability, cytotoxicity, and antibacterial studies. FTIR showed successful preparation of CMC/Poloxamer topical gels loaded with essential oils and Ag nanoparticles. The topical gels exhibited pH in the range of 5.20-6.68, spreadability between 5.4 and 5.9 cm, and viscosity ranged from 216 to 1200 cP at 50 rpm and 210–858 cP at 100 rpm. The in vitro drug release studies demonstrated that Ag nanoparticles were released from the topical gels in a sustained manner. Most formulated topical gels demonstrated superior antimicrobial efficacy against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria strains than the blank gel and controls. The cytotoxicity analysis displayed more than 90.83 percent cell viability for the topical gels, revealing excellent biocompatibility. The outcomes revealed that the topical gels enriched with essential oils lavender and tea tree and Ag nanoparticles and sponges incorporated with metronidazole and Ag nanoparticles are potential wound dressing scaffolds that can be employed for the treatment of chronic infected injuries. The in vitro wound healing experiments showed that the HaCaT cells cultured with gels co-enriched with lavender oil and Ag nanoparticles possessed a higher rate of closure in comparison to the untreated cells for 96 hours. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
- Full Text:
- Authors: Alven, Sibusiso
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: Toxicity testing -- In vitro , Wound healing , Chronic diseases
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27992 , vital:71414
- Description: Microbial infections are responsible for the retarded recovery process of chronic wounds. Polymer-based scaffolds possess features suitable for the treatment of chronic injuries. However, these scaffolds are commonly encapsulated with therapeutic agents to enhance their biological activities, including antibacterial efficacy. In this research, two types of polymer-based scaffolds were formulated and evaluated as effective formulations for the treatment of chronic wounds: sponges and topical gels. Sponges were formulated from cross-linking of gelatin and PEG. Ag nanoparticles and metronidazole were incorporated into the sponges to improve their antibacterial activity. Topical gels were loaded with essential oils and Ag nanoparticles and prepared from CMC and poloxamer. The prepared sponges and topical gels were evaluated using various analysis and characterization techniques. SEM/EDX, FTIR, and TGA were employed to characterize gelatin/PEG hybrid sponges followed by porosity, in vitro biodegradability, cytotoxicity, and antibacterial studies. FTIR, SEM/EDX, and TGA confirmed their physicochemical properties and successful fabrication of sponges loaded with metronidazole and Ag nanoparticles. The sponges were biodegradable, indicating their capability to induce skin regeneration. The drug release studies showed a rapid release of metronidazole 28.32-71.97 percent from the sponges over the first hour, followed by a sustained drug release. The Ag nanoparticles were released in a sustained manner, suggesting that these sponges can rapidly destroy bacteria and inhibit persisting bacterial infections as well as protect the lesion bed from further bacteria infections. The in vitro antibacterial studies of sponges displayed superior antibacterial activity against most of the Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria strains commonly found in chronic wound infections with a MIC value of 15.625 μg/mL. In vitro cytotoxicity experiments revealed excellent biocompatibility with a percent cell viability of more than 70 percent. The in vitro wound scratch healing assay exhibited that the sponges encapsulated with only metronidazole promoted high cell migration than the dual drug-loaded sponges and untreated cells, suggesting its potential to quicken the wound healing process. CMC/Poloxamer topical gels were also characterized by FTIR, followed by pH, viscosity, spreadability, cytotoxicity, and antibacterial studies. FTIR showed successful preparation of CMC/Poloxamer topical gels loaded with essential oils and Ag nanoparticles. The topical gels exhibited pH in the range of 5.20-6.68, spreadability between 5.4 and 5.9 cm, and viscosity ranged from 216 to 1200 cP at 50 rpm and 210–858 cP at 100 rpm. The in vitro drug release studies demonstrated that Ag nanoparticles were released from the topical gels in a sustained manner. Most formulated topical gels demonstrated superior antimicrobial efficacy against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria strains than the blank gel and controls. The cytotoxicity analysis displayed more than 90.83 percent cell viability for the topical gels, revealing excellent biocompatibility. The outcomes revealed that the topical gels enriched with essential oils lavender and tea tree and Ag nanoparticles and sponges incorporated with metronidazole and Ag nanoparticles are potential wound dressing scaffolds that can be employed for the treatment of chronic infected injuries. The in vitro wound healing experiments showed that the HaCaT cells cultured with gels co-enriched with lavender oil and Ag nanoparticles possessed a higher rate of closure in comparison to the untreated cells for 96 hours. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
- Full Text:
Synthesis and in vitro biological studies of ursolic acid-based hybrid compounds
- Authors: Khwaza, Vuyolwethu
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: Herbal medicine , Herbs -- Therapeutic use , Antineoplastic antibiotics
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27797 , vital:69689
- Description: Ursolic acid UA, a pentacyclic triterpenoid that is commonly found in many medicinal herbs and fruits, has been identified as a potential source of therapeutic agents because of its potent biological effects, which include its potential anticancer and antimicrobial activities. However, its limited solubility, rapid metabolism and poor bioavailability inhibit its clinical applications. Numerous UA derivatives have been prepared over the past years in an effort to mitigate the drawbacks associated with UA, as new chemical entities for the treatment of various infections. There is very little progress in the discovery of efficient UA derivatives. In this study, a class of ester and amide-linked ursolic acid-based hybrid compounds fused with selected pharmaceutical scaffolds were successfully synthesized using amidation and esterification reactions and tested for antibacterial and cytotoxicity activities. Hybridizing UA with other known pharmaceutical scaffolds has the potential of overcoming its drawbacks. FT-IR, Mass Spectroscopy, and 1H13C-NMR spectroscopy were used to confirm the structures of the synthesized hybrid compounds. Among the tested ester-linked hybrid compounds in Chapter three, compounds 3.14-3.19,3.21, 3.34, 3.31, and 3.30 demonstrated significant antibacterial activities against some tested bacteria, with MIC values of 15.625 μgml. Furthermore, the in vitro cytotoxicity of these hybrids was determined using the MTT assay against three human tumor cell lines MCF7, MDA-MB-231, and HeLa cells. Compounds 3.19 and 3.34 were found to have better cytotoxic activity when compared to ursolic acid, with IC50 values of 46.99 and 48.18 μg ml respectively. Both compounds revealed more promising docking results, presenting favourable binding interactions as well as better docking energy against the MCF 7 protein target compared to the parent compound ursolic acid. In Chapter Four, among the tested amide-linked hybrid compounds, Compounds 4.17 and 4.24 demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against the majority of bacterial strains with MIC values of 15.625 gml. Compound 4.24 exhibited a MIC value of 15.625gmL against BS, SA, PV, KO, PM, and EC. Compound 4.23 was more cytotoxic to HeLa cells than ursolic acid. Furthermore, molecular docking calculations revealed that compound 4.16 strongly binds to the protein epidermal growth factor receptor while e compounds 4.17 and 4.24 showed a strong binding affinity for the methionyl-tRNA synthetase. In both cases, the hybrid compounds showed better conformational fittings in the active site of the targeted proteins as compared to the parent ursolic acid. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
- Full Text:
- Authors: Khwaza, Vuyolwethu
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: Herbal medicine , Herbs -- Therapeutic use , Antineoplastic antibiotics
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27797 , vital:69689
- Description: Ursolic acid UA, a pentacyclic triterpenoid that is commonly found in many medicinal herbs and fruits, has been identified as a potential source of therapeutic agents because of its potent biological effects, which include its potential anticancer and antimicrobial activities. However, its limited solubility, rapid metabolism and poor bioavailability inhibit its clinical applications. Numerous UA derivatives have been prepared over the past years in an effort to mitigate the drawbacks associated with UA, as new chemical entities for the treatment of various infections. There is very little progress in the discovery of efficient UA derivatives. In this study, a class of ester and amide-linked ursolic acid-based hybrid compounds fused with selected pharmaceutical scaffolds were successfully synthesized using amidation and esterification reactions and tested for antibacterial and cytotoxicity activities. Hybridizing UA with other known pharmaceutical scaffolds has the potential of overcoming its drawbacks. FT-IR, Mass Spectroscopy, and 1H13C-NMR spectroscopy were used to confirm the structures of the synthesized hybrid compounds. Among the tested ester-linked hybrid compounds in Chapter three, compounds 3.14-3.19,3.21, 3.34, 3.31, and 3.30 demonstrated significant antibacterial activities against some tested bacteria, with MIC values of 15.625 μgml. Furthermore, the in vitro cytotoxicity of these hybrids was determined using the MTT assay against three human tumor cell lines MCF7, MDA-MB-231, and HeLa cells. Compounds 3.19 and 3.34 were found to have better cytotoxic activity when compared to ursolic acid, with IC50 values of 46.99 and 48.18 μg ml respectively. Both compounds revealed more promising docking results, presenting favourable binding interactions as well as better docking energy against the MCF 7 protein target compared to the parent compound ursolic acid. In Chapter Four, among the tested amide-linked hybrid compounds, Compounds 4.17 and 4.24 demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against the majority of bacterial strains with MIC values of 15.625 gml. Compound 4.24 exhibited a MIC value of 15.625gmL against BS, SA, PV, KO, PM, and EC. Compound 4.23 was more cytotoxic to HeLa cells than ursolic acid. Furthermore, molecular docking calculations revealed that compound 4.16 strongly binds to the protein epidermal growth factor receptor while e compounds 4.17 and 4.24 showed a strong binding affinity for the methionyl-tRNA synthetase. In both cases, the hybrid compounds showed better conformational fittings in the active site of the targeted proteins as compared to the parent ursolic acid. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
- Full Text:
The nexus between petroleum energy security and South Africa’s foreign policy
- Authors: Seshibedi S S
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: Petroleum industry and trade -- Government policy , Energy industries , Petroleum law and legislation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27165 , vital:66325
- Description: This study sets out to explore the nexus between South Africa’s petroleum energy security and its foreign policy. The specific objectives of the research include: to find out the state of South Africa’s oil energy security, the extent to which oil is a consideration in the development of the country’s foreign policy and the extent to which its foreign policy is framed to favour oil exporting states. Qualitative research methodology is applied in this study with the Realism as the theoretical framework. The study found out that the state of South Africa’s oil energy security, which compels the country to rely on foreign oil, provides grounds for foreign policy intervention, with discernible espousal of relations with oil exporting states that is different to those that do not produce oil. The study also found that oil is a consideration in the development of South Africa’s foreign policy, as the country’s policy strategy towards oil exporting states is to build relations of bilateral nature, through diplomatic instruments, among others. South Africa’s regional politics makes discernible the fact that South Africa prefers a policy of multilateralism to manage its relations with SADC and SACU members who are not oil exporting, while evidence showed that bilateral relations are preferred towards oil exporting states. The study recommends amongst others, that South Africa’s over-reliance on foreign oil can be mitigated by taking the lead in transitioning to renewable energy. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Authors: Seshibedi S S
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: Petroleum industry and trade -- Government policy , Energy industries , Petroleum law and legislation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27165 , vital:66325
- Description: This study sets out to explore the nexus between South Africa’s petroleum energy security and its foreign policy. The specific objectives of the research include: to find out the state of South Africa’s oil energy security, the extent to which oil is a consideration in the development of the country’s foreign policy and the extent to which its foreign policy is framed to favour oil exporting states. Qualitative research methodology is applied in this study with the Realism as the theoretical framework. The study found out that the state of South Africa’s oil energy security, which compels the country to rely on foreign oil, provides grounds for foreign policy intervention, with discernible espousal of relations with oil exporting states that is different to those that do not produce oil. The study also found that oil is a consideration in the development of South Africa’s foreign policy, as the country’s policy strategy towards oil exporting states is to build relations of bilateral nature, through diplomatic instruments, among others. South Africa’s regional politics makes discernible the fact that South Africa prefers a policy of multilateralism to manage its relations with SADC and SACU members who are not oil exporting, while evidence showed that bilateral relations are preferred towards oil exporting states. The study recommends amongst others, that South Africa’s over-reliance on foreign oil can be mitigated by taking the lead in transitioning to renewable energy. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
An analysis of the design of evaluation standards in the South African National Evaluation System
- Authors: Segopolo, Morakane Jocobeth
- Date: 2022-01
- Subjects: Quality control , Educational evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23448 , vital:57735
- Description: Globally, the development of evaluation standards and related quality assurance measures for managing and assessing evaluation quality has been the focus of much debate in the evaluation community. Especially in the current context of COVID 19, validating the quality of evaluation and research evidence to respond to the global pandemic and to socio-economic development has become more relevant. The question of evaluation quality has also become important in South Africa. This has resulted in a need for a National Evaluation System to manage the quality of the evaluation process and outputs; so that critical stakeholders can trust and use the evaluation evidence to measure performance and accountability of government. The South African National Evaluation System through the National Evaluation Policy Framework (NEPF) was adopted by Cabinet to guide the development and management of systemic and institutional evaluation policy and practice. This research responds to the conceptual gap in the design of the evaluation standards. The purpose of the research study is to analyse the design of evaluation standards in the South African National Evaluation System (NES). The research objectives of the study were: To analyse the design of evaluation standard in the South African National Evaluation System against international evaluation normative frameworks, To assess the theory underpinning the evaluation standards in the South African National Evaluation System. A qualitative research approach using a semi-structured interview was used to collect data from the eight respondents. The participants included in the sample were those who played a meaningful role in the design and application of the evaluation standards and the Evaluation Quality Assessment Tool (EQAT) of the NES. Content and thematic analysis were used to process and analyse the empirical data. The research study produced the following key findings. The design of the national evaluation standards as a component of the South African National Evaluation System was technically and conceptually clear about its context, rationale, purpose and its claims to manage the evaluation process to promote evaluation quality. Although most national evaluation standards of the NES were consistent with international frameworks, both national and international standards did not adequately address the development and transformative issues such as equity, diversity and inclusion. Finally, the discourse of paradigms was absent in the design of the standards. The national evaluation standards did not explicitly show the influence of the paradigm on methodological approaches, evaluation designs and methods. This theoretical gap is also evident in most of the international frameworks that the national standards were benchmarked against. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2022
- Full Text:
- Authors: Segopolo, Morakane Jocobeth
- Date: 2022-01
- Subjects: Quality control , Educational evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23448 , vital:57735
- Description: Globally, the development of evaluation standards and related quality assurance measures for managing and assessing evaluation quality has been the focus of much debate in the evaluation community. Especially in the current context of COVID 19, validating the quality of evaluation and research evidence to respond to the global pandemic and to socio-economic development has become more relevant. The question of evaluation quality has also become important in South Africa. This has resulted in a need for a National Evaluation System to manage the quality of the evaluation process and outputs; so that critical stakeholders can trust and use the evaluation evidence to measure performance and accountability of government. The South African National Evaluation System through the National Evaluation Policy Framework (NEPF) was adopted by Cabinet to guide the development and management of systemic and institutional evaluation policy and practice. This research responds to the conceptual gap in the design of the evaluation standards. The purpose of the research study is to analyse the design of evaluation standards in the South African National Evaluation System (NES). The research objectives of the study were: To analyse the design of evaluation standard in the South African National Evaluation System against international evaluation normative frameworks, To assess the theory underpinning the evaluation standards in the South African National Evaluation System. A qualitative research approach using a semi-structured interview was used to collect data from the eight respondents. The participants included in the sample were those who played a meaningful role in the design and application of the evaluation standards and the Evaluation Quality Assessment Tool (EQAT) of the NES. Content and thematic analysis were used to process and analyse the empirical data. The research study produced the following key findings. The design of the national evaluation standards as a component of the South African National Evaluation System was technically and conceptually clear about its context, rationale, purpose and its claims to manage the evaluation process to promote evaluation quality. Although most national evaluation standards of the NES were consistent with international frameworks, both national and international standards did not adequately address the development and transformative issues such as equity, diversity and inclusion. Finally, the discourse of paradigms was absent in the design of the standards. The national evaluation standards did not explicitly show the influence of the paradigm on methodological approaches, evaluation designs and methods. This theoretical gap is also evident in most of the international frameworks that the national standards were benchmarked against. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2022
- Full Text:
From the lens of isiXhosa female writers: female protagonists and the use of non-conformity in challenging gender roles in the post liberation isixhosa literature
- Authors: Zeleni, Olwethu
- Date: 2022-01
- Subjects: Women in literature , Feminism and literature , Xhosa literature
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23840 , vital:60915
- Description: This dissertation explored the way women are presented in five isiXhosa literary works by female writers in post independence South Africa, with particular focus on how non-conformity is used to challenge gender roles. The study analysed two novels entitled Iqhina lomtshato (1995) by Nomlamli Mayosi and Uzenzile akakhalelwa (2016) by Yolisa Madolo, as well as four drama books titled Nyana nank’unyoko (1997) by Yoliswa Taleni, Akwaba (2004) by Thenjiswa Ntwana, Hamba nam ndipheleke and Imida (2015) by Nompumezo Buzani. Structural, Afrocentrism and African feminism were used to guide the study. The structural theory gave the researcher to review language contructs in relation to gender, African feminism and Afrocentrism gave the researcher the lenses to view gender issues within the African context, in line with the peculiar challenges that women continue to face in the content. Another important factor which is the focus of the study is the depiction of women by female writers, in order to challenge the roles that are given to women. The question that one ask then is: How do female writers lend their voices to female characters to address gender issues in society, with particular focus on gender roles? This thesis argues that the five isiXhosa female writers, who are contemporary African women writers, have noticed gender related assumptions and in their works, they are making an attempt to debunk these assumptions. It is hoped that this study will contribute to the existing debates on gender and division of labour. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Authors: Zeleni, Olwethu
- Date: 2022-01
- Subjects: Women in literature , Feminism and literature , Xhosa literature
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23840 , vital:60915
- Description: This dissertation explored the way women are presented in five isiXhosa literary works by female writers in post independence South Africa, with particular focus on how non-conformity is used to challenge gender roles. The study analysed two novels entitled Iqhina lomtshato (1995) by Nomlamli Mayosi and Uzenzile akakhalelwa (2016) by Yolisa Madolo, as well as four drama books titled Nyana nank’unyoko (1997) by Yoliswa Taleni, Akwaba (2004) by Thenjiswa Ntwana, Hamba nam ndipheleke and Imida (2015) by Nompumezo Buzani. Structural, Afrocentrism and African feminism were used to guide the study. The structural theory gave the researcher to review language contructs in relation to gender, African feminism and Afrocentrism gave the researcher the lenses to view gender issues within the African context, in line with the peculiar challenges that women continue to face in the content. Another important factor which is the focus of the study is the depiction of women by female writers, in order to challenge the roles that are given to women. The question that one ask then is: How do female writers lend their voices to female characters to address gender issues in society, with particular focus on gender roles? This thesis argues that the five isiXhosa female writers, who are contemporary African women writers, have noticed gender related assumptions and in their works, they are making an attempt to debunk these assumptions. It is hoped that this study will contribute to the existing debates on gender and division of labour. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
Images of black women during the period of slavery: perspectives from selected African American female authored texts
- Authors: Makwela, Nombeko B
- Date: 2022-01
- Subjects: Slavery , Enslaved women , Enslaved persons' writings
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27117 , vital:66304
- Description: The study sought to interrogate the narratives of Black African-American women during the period of slavery. It analysed three literary works written by women, namely The Color Purple by Alice Walker (1992), Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl by Harriet Jacobs (1988) and Beloved by Toni Morrison (1987). The plot is on all the horrors, inhumanity, degradation, the sexual abuse, struggles and social injustices that the African-American women were subjected to under slavery. The study employed a case study design, as it analysed the three selected literary works. Critical analysis and close reading were employed to arrive at themes. The study not only illuminated the harsh reality of the experiences of African-American women, but it has also revealed the harrowing conditions that they encountered. These women suffered immensely under the yoke of dual oppression. Their horrors varied in gravity in the form of beatings and lynching, sexual abuse, having their children taken from them to be auctioned off, loss of identity and loss of human dignity among the countless social injustices they experienced. The study used the psychoanalytic feminist theory as a theoretical lens. Through the depiction of women in slavery in the literary works of Toni Morrison, Harriet Jacobs and Alice Walker, the case study approach revealed that women are resilient. Contrary to portrayals of women under the stereotyped labelling of women as wanton or promiscuous, with no virtues or principles, the female characters in the three novels are victims of slavery and patriarchy. In Alice Walker’s The Color Purple, the women characters, namely Celie, Squeak and Shug Avery, are not in the least immoral, nor do they lack virtues or principles; they are, as the analysis shows, self-loving women that have been victims of dual oppression. In Toni Morrison’s Beloved, the love of a mother for her children drives Sethe to commit infanticide, believing this to be the better option than allowing her children to suffer and endure the horrors of slavery. In Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl, Jacobs chooses to use her feminine sexuality to align herself to one man, Mr Sands, and her intelligence to stay in this relationship is her escape and deterrent strategy against the lecherous sexual exploitations by other white masters. She ends up bearing two children for this same man, reflecting her stability as a self-loving woman who was not wayward. Findings established that even through all the plights of slavery, African-American women made difficult yet relevant choices under the twin yokes of slavery and patriarchy. They may have been subjected or compelled to make morally unsavoury choices or to compromise on their principles for survival or succumb under situations that reduced them to being victims or sacrificial lambs for the satisfaction of the slave owners, but they never lacked principles and they were not promiscuous. The will to survive drove the women in the narratives to design and adopt survival strategies to sustain their livelihoods. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Authors: Makwela, Nombeko B
- Date: 2022-01
- Subjects: Slavery , Enslaved women , Enslaved persons' writings
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27117 , vital:66304
- Description: The study sought to interrogate the narratives of Black African-American women during the period of slavery. It analysed three literary works written by women, namely The Color Purple by Alice Walker (1992), Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl by Harriet Jacobs (1988) and Beloved by Toni Morrison (1987). The plot is on all the horrors, inhumanity, degradation, the sexual abuse, struggles and social injustices that the African-American women were subjected to under slavery. The study employed a case study design, as it analysed the three selected literary works. Critical analysis and close reading were employed to arrive at themes. The study not only illuminated the harsh reality of the experiences of African-American women, but it has also revealed the harrowing conditions that they encountered. These women suffered immensely under the yoke of dual oppression. Their horrors varied in gravity in the form of beatings and lynching, sexual abuse, having their children taken from them to be auctioned off, loss of identity and loss of human dignity among the countless social injustices they experienced. The study used the psychoanalytic feminist theory as a theoretical lens. Through the depiction of women in slavery in the literary works of Toni Morrison, Harriet Jacobs and Alice Walker, the case study approach revealed that women are resilient. Contrary to portrayals of women under the stereotyped labelling of women as wanton or promiscuous, with no virtues or principles, the female characters in the three novels are victims of slavery and patriarchy. In Alice Walker’s The Color Purple, the women characters, namely Celie, Squeak and Shug Avery, are not in the least immoral, nor do they lack virtues or principles; they are, as the analysis shows, self-loving women that have been victims of dual oppression. In Toni Morrison’s Beloved, the love of a mother for her children drives Sethe to commit infanticide, believing this to be the better option than allowing her children to suffer and endure the horrors of slavery. In Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl, Jacobs chooses to use her feminine sexuality to align herself to one man, Mr Sands, and her intelligence to stay in this relationship is her escape and deterrent strategy against the lecherous sexual exploitations by other white masters. She ends up bearing two children for this same man, reflecting her stability as a self-loving woman who was not wayward. Findings established that even through all the plights of slavery, African-American women made difficult yet relevant choices under the twin yokes of slavery and patriarchy. They may have been subjected or compelled to make morally unsavoury choices or to compromise on their principles for survival or succumb under situations that reduced them to being victims or sacrificial lambs for the satisfaction of the slave owners, but they never lacked principles and they were not promiscuous. The will to survive drove the women in the narratives to design and adopt survival strategies to sustain their livelihoods. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
Soil erodibility indices affecting the development of gully erosion in highly erodible soils of the Tsitsa Catchment in T35D and T35E, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Kanuka, Gcobisa https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4736-7136
- Authors: Kanuka, Gcobisa https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4736-7136
- Date: 2022-01
- Subjects: Soil erosion , River sediments
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22677 , vital:52642
- Description: This study evaluated soil inherent properties for the development of gullies and their erodibility potential using the holistic field and laboratory sample investigation approach. The potential of negative impact of sedimentation on dam and water infrastructure performance has raised the need to evaluate the factors promoting soil erosion leading to land degradation. The study aimed to assess the relationship among the selected properties of soil and variability among various soil groups. A case study design approach was adopted at the T35D and T35E areas of Tsitsa hydrologic Basin, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The task was accomplished through detailed random soil sampling in the field, soil chemical analysis and comparative analysis of soil variables. Based on the scope of the study soil laboratory analysis included the following: particle size distribution, soil textural analysis, physicochemical parameters analysis, macro-and-micronutrient analysis, and micro-porosity analysis. Further spatial and scenario analysis of soil erodibility was done using selected erodibility indices such as Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR), Exchangeable Sodium Percentage (ESP), Dispersivity Ratio (DR), Clay Dispersion Ratio (CDR), Clay Flocculation Index (CFI), Water-Stable Aggregate analysis (WSA), and Soil Erodibility factor analysis (KEF). The findings of the study showed that the catchment hosts sixteen distinct soil forms categorized into seven unique soil groups. The results further indicated that the Katspruit soil form of the gleyic soil group has the highest clay-size particles and a considerably high clay dispersion attribute among others soil forms. It was further deduced that gleyic soil type exhibited the highest soil pH (6.36), a considerably low Ca:Mg ratio (1.43), a substantially high sodium ion (0.50 mg/kg), the highest SAR (0.5), lowest WSA (0.018percent) and a substantially high KEF (0.018ab). Similarly, saprolite soils exhibited the nature of the lixisol with a virtually equal amount of clay (43.63percent) and fine sands (41.68percent), the lowest amount of Ca:Mg ratio (1.35), the highest acid saturation (50.59), the highest ESP (8.39), and a considerably high WSA (38.75). Other remarkable problematic soils identified in the study include the lithic soil and the duplex soil. For instance, the Lithic soil is characterized by the highest fine sand-size texture (61.38percent), considerably low organic carbon (2.63percent), low cation exchange capacity (3.55 cmol(+)/kg), much high DR (0.75), very low WSA (0.027percent), and the highest KEF (0.027a). Whereas, the duplex soil is characterized by the highest DR (0.81), critically high CDR (38.19percent), very low WSA (0.019percent), and a considerably high KEF (0.019a). The relatively stable soils within the catchment are the oxidic, and melanic, where the WSA is highest in oxidic (38.19percent) and relatively high for melanic (36.6percent), CFI is highest in melanic (85.02percent), and oxidic (74.32percent), and KEF is relatively low (0.016b) for both. Correlation of the selected soil erodibility indices shows that CFI shares a perfect inverse relationship with CDR while maintaining a strong significant relationship with DR (R = -0.504). Findings also show that the SAR expectedly produced a robust significant relationship with ESP (R = 0.644), while KEF exhibited a solid inverse relationship with WSA (R = 0.913). The correlation across the physical and chemical properties suggests that DR and CDR can be firmly and positively influenced by dispersive clay. At the same time, the two factors maintain a significantly negative relationship with dispersive sand. Also, clay-sized particles depicted a significant relationship with WSA. Physicochemical and chemical parameters influence only the ESP and SAR. A remarkable finding is the influence of iron and its presence on SAR. On the other hand, ESP was distinguished from SAR due to the inverse influence of potassium. The lithic soils identify as members of the collapsible soil of South Africa, while the gleyic soils identify with duplex and saprolite soils in the class of dispersive soils. The vertic soils characterize as expansive soil, while the Duplex soil also exhibits a soft soil attribute. In general, the study suggests that T35D and T35E areas of Tsitsa catchment vary spatially in soil erodibility potential. T35D area is characterized by dominant oxidic soil cover of relatively stable aggregate whose iron oxide enrichment could be attributed to inculcation of dolerite debris. Overall, the soil erodibility indices showed that the development of gully erosion in Tsitsa catchment is driven by high clay dispersivity ratio of the soil (mean = 0.70; 24percent CV), and poor soil structure relative to the low WSA range (18.1 – 34.0). Erodibility due to high sodicity are associated with saprolite (ESP = 8.02) and gleyic soils (ESP = 7.43) while the high soil dispersion was due to the vertic (46percent), duplex (38percent), cumulic (30percent), and lithic (27percent) soil components. The poor soil aggregates (WSA) were mainly controlled by the lithic (10percent), vertic (27percent), duplex (28percent), cumulic (31percent), and gleyic (34percent) soil components. Meanwhile, the T35E area is dominated by the dispersive and collapsible soils dominated by saprolites and lithic soils. Therefore, the environmental stakeholders are advised to adopt the best management practices within the dam area considering the vulnerability of the catchment to the development of gullies and the potential impact of sedimentation on the adequate performance of Tsitsa dam and its water infrastructures. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
- Full Text:
- Authors: Kanuka, Gcobisa https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4736-7136
- Date: 2022-01
- Subjects: Soil erosion , River sediments
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22677 , vital:52642
- Description: This study evaluated soil inherent properties for the development of gullies and their erodibility potential using the holistic field and laboratory sample investigation approach. The potential of negative impact of sedimentation on dam and water infrastructure performance has raised the need to evaluate the factors promoting soil erosion leading to land degradation. The study aimed to assess the relationship among the selected properties of soil and variability among various soil groups. A case study design approach was adopted at the T35D and T35E areas of Tsitsa hydrologic Basin, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The task was accomplished through detailed random soil sampling in the field, soil chemical analysis and comparative analysis of soil variables. Based on the scope of the study soil laboratory analysis included the following: particle size distribution, soil textural analysis, physicochemical parameters analysis, macro-and-micronutrient analysis, and micro-porosity analysis. Further spatial and scenario analysis of soil erodibility was done using selected erodibility indices such as Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR), Exchangeable Sodium Percentage (ESP), Dispersivity Ratio (DR), Clay Dispersion Ratio (CDR), Clay Flocculation Index (CFI), Water-Stable Aggregate analysis (WSA), and Soil Erodibility factor analysis (KEF). The findings of the study showed that the catchment hosts sixteen distinct soil forms categorized into seven unique soil groups. The results further indicated that the Katspruit soil form of the gleyic soil group has the highest clay-size particles and a considerably high clay dispersion attribute among others soil forms. It was further deduced that gleyic soil type exhibited the highest soil pH (6.36), a considerably low Ca:Mg ratio (1.43), a substantially high sodium ion (0.50 mg/kg), the highest SAR (0.5), lowest WSA (0.018percent) and a substantially high KEF (0.018ab). Similarly, saprolite soils exhibited the nature of the lixisol with a virtually equal amount of clay (43.63percent) and fine sands (41.68percent), the lowest amount of Ca:Mg ratio (1.35), the highest acid saturation (50.59), the highest ESP (8.39), and a considerably high WSA (38.75). Other remarkable problematic soils identified in the study include the lithic soil and the duplex soil. For instance, the Lithic soil is characterized by the highest fine sand-size texture (61.38percent), considerably low organic carbon (2.63percent), low cation exchange capacity (3.55 cmol(+)/kg), much high DR (0.75), very low WSA (0.027percent), and the highest KEF (0.027a). Whereas, the duplex soil is characterized by the highest DR (0.81), critically high CDR (38.19percent), very low WSA (0.019percent), and a considerably high KEF (0.019a). The relatively stable soils within the catchment are the oxidic, and melanic, where the WSA is highest in oxidic (38.19percent) and relatively high for melanic (36.6percent), CFI is highest in melanic (85.02percent), and oxidic (74.32percent), and KEF is relatively low (0.016b) for both. Correlation of the selected soil erodibility indices shows that CFI shares a perfect inverse relationship with CDR while maintaining a strong significant relationship with DR (R = -0.504). Findings also show that the SAR expectedly produced a robust significant relationship with ESP (R = 0.644), while KEF exhibited a solid inverse relationship with WSA (R = 0.913). The correlation across the physical and chemical properties suggests that DR and CDR can be firmly and positively influenced by dispersive clay. At the same time, the two factors maintain a significantly negative relationship with dispersive sand. Also, clay-sized particles depicted a significant relationship with WSA. Physicochemical and chemical parameters influence only the ESP and SAR. A remarkable finding is the influence of iron and its presence on SAR. On the other hand, ESP was distinguished from SAR due to the inverse influence of potassium. The lithic soils identify as members of the collapsible soil of South Africa, while the gleyic soils identify with duplex and saprolite soils in the class of dispersive soils. The vertic soils characterize as expansive soil, while the Duplex soil also exhibits a soft soil attribute. In general, the study suggests that T35D and T35E areas of Tsitsa catchment vary spatially in soil erodibility potential. T35D area is characterized by dominant oxidic soil cover of relatively stable aggregate whose iron oxide enrichment could be attributed to inculcation of dolerite debris. Overall, the soil erodibility indices showed that the development of gully erosion in Tsitsa catchment is driven by high clay dispersivity ratio of the soil (mean = 0.70; 24percent CV), and poor soil structure relative to the low WSA range (18.1 – 34.0). Erodibility due to high sodicity are associated with saprolite (ESP = 8.02) and gleyic soils (ESP = 7.43) while the high soil dispersion was due to the vertic (46percent), duplex (38percent), cumulic (30percent), and lithic (27percent) soil components. The poor soil aggregates (WSA) were mainly controlled by the lithic (10percent), vertic (27percent), duplex (28percent), cumulic (31percent), and gleyic (34percent) soil components. Meanwhile, the T35E area is dominated by the dispersive and collapsible soils dominated by saprolites and lithic soils. Therefore, the environmental stakeholders are advised to adopt the best management practices within the dam area considering the vulnerability of the catchment to the development of gullies and the potential impact of sedimentation on the adequate performance of Tsitsa dam and its water infrastructures. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
- Full Text:
Standards for the admission of forensic scientific evidence in criminal trials through an expert: Lessons and guidelines for South Africa
- Chetty, Nasholan https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7053-5831
- Authors: Chetty, Nasholan https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7053-5831
- Date: 2022-01
- Subjects: Evidence, Expert , Forensic sciences , Crime scene searches
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22467 , vital:52324
- Description: Forensic evidence has always captured the imagination of the public and legal fraternity since science entered the courtroom. The first case of forensic science was heard in the matter of John Boodle in 1832, and criminal courts have now come accustomed to hearing a variety of matters that have some form of forensic science evidence in them. Television shows like Crime Scene Investigation and Making a Murderer has heightened the expectation that is placed on the sciences and the ease of which a conviction can be secured or a suspect apprehended. The spate of wrongful convictions that have been overturned, particularly in the United States of America has raised serious questions regarding the use of forensic evidence in courts. Moreover, the people “in-charge” or the so-called experts for providing this analysis’s have come under intense scrutiny. Many reports have been compiled after investigations were conducted into the state of expert evidence in those various jurisdictions. The use of an expert to provide critical details regarding aspects of a crime that goes beyond the ordinary education of presiding officers and legal practitioners has posed to the court, many questions as to how they are being used and whether their evidence should be used. The use of an expert is not new to the South African legal system, and the same can be said for many foreign jurisdictions, but the problem now experienced by courts is whether these experts are in-fact “experts” and whether the information conveyed to the court can be relied upon especially if the evidence is of a scientific nature. An investigation into how expert evidence is presented and evaluated in South African criminal courts will reveal many appealing aspects regarding the development of how an expert is used and how they should be used as well as how their evidence should be evaluated. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Law, 2022
- Full Text:
- Authors: Chetty, Nasholan https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7053-5831
- Date: 2022-01
- Subjects: Evidence, Expert , Forensic sciences , Crime scene searches
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22467 , vital:52324
- Description: Forensic evidence has always captured the imagination of the public and legal fraternity since science entered the courtroom. The first case of forensic science was heard in the matter of John Boodle in 1832, and criminal courts have now come accustomed to hearing a variety of matters that have some form of forensic science evidence in them. Television shows like Crime Scene Investigation and Making a Murderer has heightened the expectation that is placed on the sciences and the ease of which a conviction can be secured or a suspect apprehended. The spate of wrongful convictions that have been overturned, particularly in the United States of America has raised serious questions regarding the use of forensic evidence in courts. Moreover, the people “in-charge” or the so-called experts for providing this analysis’s have come under intense scrutiny. Many reports have been compiled after investigations were conducted into the state of expert evidence in those various jurisdictions. The use of an expert to provide critical details regarding aspects of a crime that goes beyond the ordinary education of presiding officers and legal practitioners has posed to the court, many questions as to how they are being used and whether their evidence should be used. The use of an expert is not new to the South African legal system, and the same can be said for many foreign jurisdictions, but the problem now experienced by courts is whether these experts are in-fact “experts” and whether the information conveyed to the court can be relied upon especially if the evidence is of a scientific nature. An investigation into how expert evidence is presented and evaluated in South African criminal courts will reveal many appealing aspects regarding the development of how an expert is used and how they should be used as well as how their evidence should be evaluated. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Law, 2022
- Full Text:
The South African media portrayal of Sindisiwe Manqele’s intimate partner homicide Case of Nkululeko ‘Flabba’ Habedi: A feminist narrative analysis
- Authors: Ntweni, Nosiphiwo
- Date: 2022-01
- Subjects: Homicide -- Psychological aspects , Content analysis (Communication)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23787 , vital:60542
- Description: The story construction of intimate partner homicide in the media reflects the inherent influence the media has on the society and the shaping of its attitudes. This study uses an exploratory qualitative research design with the aim that is to investigate how the South African news media constructs and narrates the Intimate Partner Homicide of Nkululeko ‘Flabba’ Habedi by Sindisiwe Manqele. This objective was achieved through feminist narrative analysis of 30 South African media articles, with an underpinning theory of feminist constructionism. Feminist constructionism is a theoretical framework that ties together feminist psychology and social constructionist methods. The main ideas followed by the S.A. media reporters were sub-divided into three main deductive themes; ‘sad/victim’, ‘mad’ and ‘bad’. Overall, Manqele as a character, was demonised and portrayed as a villain, which followed the bad narrative. The ‘sad/victim’ narrative followed, and then the ‘mad’ narrative. The ‘sad/victim’ narrative frames Manqele as a victim of intimate partner violence (IPV). The ‘mad’ narrative showed up in the smallest number of the sample represented her as unstable and irrational. The ‘bad’ Manqele was primarily depicted as wicked and evil manipulator, the jealous, cold-blooded killer, and a promiscuous, sexual deviant. The possibility of history of IPV in the relationship its context was largely ignored. The narrative about rappers made allowances for the use of drugs, living a life of sexual experimentation and living with culture of aggression. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ntweni, Nosiphiwo
- Date: 2022-01
- Subjects: Homicide -- Psychological aspects , Content analysis (Communication)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23787 , vital:60542
- Description: The story construction of intimate partner homicide in the media reflects the inherent influence the media has on the society and the shaping of its attitudes. This study uses an exploratory qualitative research design with the aim that is to investigate how the South African news media constructs and narrates the Intimate Partner Homicide of Nkululeko ‘Flabba’ Habedi by Sindisiwe Manqele. This objective was achieved through feminist narrative analysis of 30 South African media articles, with an underpinning theory of feminist constructionism. Feminist constructionism is a theoretical framework that ties together feminist psychology and social constructionist methods. The main ideas followed by the S.A. media reporters were sub-divided into three main deductive themes; ‘sad/victim’, ‘mad’ and ‘bad’. Overall, Manqele as a character, was demonised and portrayed as a villain, which followed the bad narrative. The ‘sad/victim’ narrative followed, and then the ‘mad’ narrative. The ‘sad/victim’ narrative frames Manqele as a victim of intimate partner violence (IPV). The ‘mad’ narrative showed up in the smallest number of the sample represented her as unstable and irrational. The ‘bad’ Manqele was primarily depicted as wicked and evil manipulator, the jealous, cold-blooded killer, and a promiscuous, sexual deviant. The possibility of history of IPV in the relationship its context was largely ignored. The narrative about rappers made allowances for the use of drugs, living a life of sexual experimentation and living with culture of aggression. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
The use of earth observation multi-sensor systems to monitor and model Pastures: a case of Savannah Grasslands in Hluvukani Village, Bushbuckridge Local Municipality, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa
- Nduku, Lwandile https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9168-4548
- Authors: Nduku, Lwandile https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9168-4548
- Date: 2022-01
- Subjects: Climatic changes , Grassland conservation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22578 , vital:52470
- Description: Grassland degradation associated with climate change and inappropriate grassland management has been characterized as a global environmental concern driving decreased grassland ecosystem's ecological functioning. More than 60% of South African grassland is degraded or permanently transformed to other land uses and nearly 2% properly conserved. Yet, grasslands are a major source of food for livestock grazing and provide material and non-material benefits to many livelihoods. Therefore, grassland above-ground biomass (AGB) estimation is crucial in planning and managing pastoral agriculture and the benefits derived from it. However, current grassland monitoring techniques used in rural smallholder livestock farms rely on conventional methods, which are destructive, labour-intensive, costly, and restricted to small areas. This study investigated the monitoring and modelling of protected grasslands biomass using current Earth observation systems (EOS), an approach, which is non-destructive, cost-effective, cover larger areas and is a time-saving alternative to conventional methods. Hence, the research objectives were: (i) to map the trends and advances in data and models used in the monitoring of grassland (pastures) with Earth observation systems, and (ii) to assess above-ground biomass estimation in semi-arid savannah grassland integrating Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 data with Machine-Learning. This goal was to assess if this approach could provide the requisite information, which could contribute to the long-term goal of developing a semi-automated system for data processing, and mapping grassland biomass to benefit local communities. For this investigation, it was crucial to understanding what research had achieved so far in this area of pasture management. An assessment of the Scopus database showed the recent developments in European Union (EU) programs and Sentinel missions, including statistical models and machine learning for monitoring grassland changes at multiple scales. However, Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 data, machine learning models, and variable importance techniques were applied for grassland AGB estimation. These techniques have been used in similar studies to determine optimum machine learning models, influential variables, and the capability of integrated Sentinel datasets for mapping grassland AGB, spatial distribution, and abundance. Results showed improved performance with the Random forest regression (RFR) model (R² of 34.7%, RMSE of 9.47 Mg and MAE of 7.68 Mg ). The study also observed optimum sensitivity of Difference Vegetation Index (DVI) and Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) in all three machine learning models for modelling grassland AGB estimation in the study area. A further, statistical comparison of all three machine learning models showed an insignificant difference in the predictive capacity for AGB in the study area with Gradient Boosting regression (GBR) model (R² of 27.7, RMSE of 9.97 Mg and MAE of 8.03 Mg ) and Extreme Gradient Boost Regression (XGBR) model (R² of 17.3%, RMSE of 10.66 Mg and MAE of 8.83 Mg ). The study revealed that an integration of Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 has improved capabilities for monitoring grassland AGB estimation. This research sheds light on the timely and cost-effective techniques for grassland management strategies to enhance or restore the ecological functioning of grassland ecosystems and promote community sustainability. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
- Full Text:
- Authors: Nduku, Lwandile https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9168-4548
- Date: 2022-01
- Subjects: Climatic changes , Grassland conservation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22578 , vital:52470
- Description: Grassland degradation associated with climate change and inappropriate grassland management has been characterized as a global environmental concern driving decreased grassland ecosystem's ecological functioning. More than 60% of South African grassland is degraded or permanently transformed to other land uses and nearly 2% properly conserved. Yet, grasslands are a major source of food for livestock grazing and provide material and non-material benefits to many livelihoods. Therefore, grassland above-ground biomass (AGB) estimation is crucial in planning and managing pastoral agriculture and the benefits derived from it. However, current grassland monitoring techniques used in rural smallholder livestock farms rely on conventional methods, which are destructive, labour-intensive, costly, and restricted to small areas. This study investigated the monitoring and modelling of protected grasslands biomass using current Earth observation systems (EOS), an approach, which is non-destructive, cost-effective, cover larger areas and is a time-saving alternative to conventional methods. Hence, the research objectives were: (i) to map the trends and advances in data and models used in the monitoring of grassland (pastures) with Earth observation systems, and (ii) to assess above-ground biomass estimation in semi-arid savannah grassland integrating Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 data with Machine-Learning. This goal was to assess if this approach could provide the requisite information, which could contribute to the long-term goal of developing a semi-automated system for data processing, and mapping grassland biomass to benefit local communities. For this investigation, it was crucial to understanding what research had achieved so far in this area of pasture management. An assessment of the Scopus database showed the recent developments in European Union (EU) programs and Sentinel missions, including statistical models and machine learning for monitoring grassland changes at multiple scales. However, Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 data, machine learning models, and variable importance techniques were applied for grassland AGB estimation. These techniques have been used in similar studies to determine optimum machine learning models, influential variables, and the capability of integrated Sentinel datasets for mapping grassland AGB, spatial distribution, and abundance. Results showed improved performance with the Random forest regression (RFR) model (R² of 34.7%, RMSE of 9.47 Mg and MAE of 7.68 Mg ). The study also observed optimum sensitivity of Difference Vegetation Index (DVI) and Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) in all three machine learning models for modelling grassland AGB estimation in the study area. A further, statistical comparison of all three machine learning models showed an insignificant difference in the predictive capacity for AGB in the study area with Gradient Boosting regression (GBR) model (R² of 27.7, RMSE of 9.97 Mg and MAE of 8.03 Mg ) and Extreme Gradient Boost Regression (XGBR) model (R² of 17.3%, RMSE of 10.66 Mg and MAE of 8.83 Mg ). The study revealed that an integration of Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 has improved capabilities for monitoring grassland AGB estimation. This research sheds light on the timely and cost-effective techniques for grassland management strategies to enhance or restore the ecological functioning of grassland ecosystems and promote community sustainability. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
- Full Text:
Trade openness, economic growth, income inequality and poverty nexus in SADC countries: 1980-2019
- Gonese, Dorcas https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0774-024X
- Authors: Gonese, Dorcas https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0774-024X
- Date: 2022-01
- Subjects: Economic development , Income distribution
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23370 , vital:57618
- Description: Trade openness (TO) has been identified as a critical component for sustainable economic growth, income inequality reduction, and poverty reduction in the 2030 Agenda as per the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) regional indicative strategic development plan (RISDP). Despite the opening up to the global world, developing countries such as the SADC continue to face exclusive and unstable economic growth, massive income disparity, and poverty. Considering the previous empirical work, many controversies are related to methodologies and measurement issues. The study attempted to examine the impact of trade openness on economic growth of the SADC countries as well as its effect on income inequality and poverty reduction from 1980 to 2019. The study builds on existing studies in the region that have mainly analysed this kind of relationship, assuming that it is only TO and economic growth (EGR) that matters. The study sought to address three analytical objectives. The first objective focused on examining the effects of trade openness on economic growth in the SADC countries. In addressing this objective, the Pooled Mean Group (PMG) was utilised, given the nature of the relationship between the variables of interest. The empirical results revealed that all measures of trade openness (real trade openness, economic globalisation, exports and imports of goods and services) used in the study have a positive effect on economic growth in SADC countries. This implies that the foreign factors account for a share of SADC's economic growth. The PMG indicates that the mediating variables of all measures of trade openness with human capital development have a positive effect on economic growth. This implies that the beneficial impact of the said measures of trade openness, are more effective when investment in human capital increases. The second objective focused on analysing trade openness's direct and indirect impact on income inequality using the PMG model again. The empirical results indicate that trade openness via exports has a negative effect on income inequality. In contrast, real trade openness and imports positively affect income inequality. This implies that the exports of goods and services in SADC are drivers of income inequality reduction while real trade openness and imports worsen it. Therefore, the SADC countries must be wary of real trade openness and import policies addressing income inequality. As for the interaction effects, the empirical results indicate that greater openness via real trade openness, economic globalisation, exports and imports reduce income inequality when economic growth increases and when the financial sector is more developed. The final analytical objective focused on analysing the effects of TO on poverty in the SADC region. The PMG model was utilised for trade openness-non-income poverty (NPOV) relationship. However, because there is a scarcity of income-poverty (IPOV) data, the time dimensions for the income poverty-trade openness model are smaller than the cross sections. Therefore, the current study employed the system generalised method of moments (SGMM) estimation technique which is a more effective and efficient estimation technique for controlling for endogeneity when the time dimension is smaller than the cross sections. The findings indicate that real trade openness has a positive effect on NPOV, whereas economic globalisation, exports, and imports negatively affect NPOV. This implies that real trade openness increases poverty reduction while economic globalisation, exports and imports exacerbate non-income poverty in SADC countries. On testing whether trade openness- NPOV relationship changes with economic growth, income inequality, human capital development, financial development and institutional quality, the complementary variable with EGR is positive and significant for real trade openness and exports, implying that real trade openness and exports reduce NPOV when economic growth increases. The SGMM indicates that only economic globalisation and imports have negative impact on income poverty in SADC countries. This implies that economic globalisation and imports are determinants of income poverty reduction in the SADC countries. The SADC governments and policymakers should be mindful about what ways they should globalise, what goods they export or imports to minimise income poverty. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2022
- Full Text:
- Authors: Gonese, Dorcas https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0774-024X
- Date: 2022-01
- Subjects: Economic development , Income distribution
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23370 , vital:57618
- Description: Trade openness (TO) has been identified as a critical component for sustainable economic growth, income inequality reduction, and poverty reduction in the 2030 Agenda as per the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) regional indicative strategic development plan (RISDP). Despite the opening up to the global world, developing countries such as the SADC continue to face exclusive and unstable economic growth, massive income disparity, and poverty. Considering the previous empirical work, many controversies are related to methodologies and measurement issues. The study attempted to examine the impact of trade openness on economic growth of the SADC countries as well as its effect on income inequality and poverty reduction from 1980 to 2019. The study builds on existing studies in the region that have mainly analysed this kind of relationship, assuming that it is only TO and economic growth (EGR) that matters. The study sought to address three analytical objectives. The first objective focused on examining the effects of trade openness on economic growth in the SADC countries. In addressing this objective, the Pooled Mean Group (PMG) was utilised, given the nature of the relationship between the variables of interest. The empirical results revealed that all measures of trade openness (real trade openness, economic globalisation, exports and imports of goods and services) used in the study have a positive effect on economic growth in SADC countries. This implies that the foreign factors account for a share of SADC's economic growth. The PMG indicates that the mediating variables of all measures of trade openness with human capital development have a positive effect on economic growth. This implies that the beneficial impact of the said measures of trade openness, are more effective when investment in human capital increases. The second objective focused on analysing trade openness's direct and indirect impact on income inequality using the PMG model again. The empirical results indicate that trade openness via exports has a negative effect on income inequality. In contrast, real trade openness and imports positively affect income inequality. This implies that the exports of goods and services in SADC are drivers of income inequality reduction while real trade openness and imports worsen it. Therefore, the SADC countries must be wary of real trade openness and import policies addressing income inequality. As for the interaction effects, the empirical results indicate that greater openness via real trade openness, economic globalisation, exports and imports reduce income inequality when economic growth increases and when the financial sector is more developed. The final analytical objective focused on analysing the effects of TO on poverty in the SADC region. The PMG model was utilised for trade openness-non-income poverty (NPOV) relationship. However, because there is a scarcity of income-poverty (IPOV) data, the time dimensions for the income poverty-trade openness model are smaller than the cross sections. Therefore, the current study employed the system generalised method of moments (SGMM) estimation technique which is a more effective and efficient estimation technique for controlling for endogeneity when the time dimension is smaller than the cross sections. The findings indicate that real trade openness has a positive effect on NPOV, whereas economic globalisation, exports, and imports negatively affect NPOV. This implies that real trade openness increases poverty reduction while economic globalisation, exports and imports exacerbate non-income poverty in SADC countries. On testing whether trade openness- NPOV relationship changes with economic growth, income inequality, human capital development, financial development and institutional quality, the complementary variable with EGR is positive and significant for real trade openness and exports, implying that real trade openness and exports reduce NPOV when economic growth increases. The SGMM indicates that only economic globalisation and imports have negative impact on income poverty in SADC countries. This implies that economic globalisation and imports are determinants of income poverty reduction in the SADC countries. The SADC governments and policymakers should be mindful about what ways they should globalise, what goods they export or imports to minimise income poverty. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2022
- Full Text:
Assessing the implementation of environmental education school policy in Buffalo City Metro Education District South Africa
- Authors: Damoah, Benjamin
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Environmental education , Environmental policy -- South Africa , Education and state -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21602 , vital:51703
- Description: Environmental Education (EE) is essential for addressing environmental challenges.The advantages of EE are undeniable; it might be used to address specific environmental concerns and their implications, as well as to modify behaviours that lead to environmental catastrophes.EE strengthens people's resilience to climaterelated hazards. Global environmental issues have heightened interest in educational policy outcomes and their implications for economic growth and social citizenship. It is worth noting that an effective EE policy has a significant influence on the development of learners' environmental literacy. This study assessed the implementation of environmental education school policy in the Buffalo City Metro Education District, South Africa. This study adopted the pragmatism paradigm of Mixed Method Research(MMR). Concurrent triangulation, which is a design that employs a single data collection technique in which quantitative and qualitative data gathering and analysis are carried out independently yet concurrently, was used for this study. The target population of this study involved 60,412 teachers, 1,770,289 learners in 5205 public schools, and 1 Pro-EE civil society organisation in the Eastern Cape province. This was narrowed down to over 268 public and independent schools, teachers, and principals within the enclave of the Buffalo Metropolitan education district. The study adopted stratified purposeful and simple random probability sampling. In this technique, the sampling frame of the study was divided into strata or groups (principals, teachers, learners, and CSOs) and a sample was purposefully selected from each stratum (Migiro & Magangi, 2011). The stratified purposeful random sampling techniques draw data from 10 principals, 175 teachers, 1500 learners, and 1 CSO. Structured questionnaire; Implementation of EE Policy Questionnaire (IEEPQ) whose reliability co-efficient value using Cronbach Alpha was 0.74, semi-structured interview and documents were the instruments used to collect data for this study. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics of percentage, mean, and standard deviation for the quantitative data while the thematic approach of sorting, coding, transcribing, and categorization was used for the qualitative data. The study revealed the following. When asked whether teachers had studied environmental education in tertiary institutions as part of their professional training, the majority of the teachers'respondents, 108, representing 61.7percent, disagreed with this view. On the flip side, a handful of teachers 67, (38.3percent) agreed with the view of having had some sort of EE knowledge during their professional training as teachers. With regards to the view that learners learn environmental issues through other subjects, most of the learner respondents, 1316 representing 87.7percent, agreed with this view. On the contrary, a minority of the respondents 184 (12,3percent) had a dissenting opinion. This indicates that most learners in school learn about environmental concerns through other traditional subjects. The study established that EE content is manifest in teachers' and learners' textbooks, teaching methods, and co-curricular activities. However, the study identified lapses in how teachers and learners integrate EE into their day-to-day practices. Therefore, the implementation of the EE policy seems to be an exercise in futility. The absence of a policy guideline document has made teachers and school administrators incapacitated in the implementation of EE school policy. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, 2022
- Full Text:
- Authors: Damoah, Benjamin
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Environmental education , Environmental policy -- South Africa , Education and state -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21602 , vital:51703
- Description: Environmental Education (EE) is essential for addressing environmental challenges.The advantages of EE are undeniable; it might be used to address specific environmental concerns and their implications, as well as to modify behaviours that lead to environmental catastrophes.EE strengthens people's resilience to climaterelated hazards. Global environmental issues have heightened interest in educational policy outcomes and their implications for economic growth and social citizenship. It is worth noting that an effective EE policy has a significant influence on the development of learners' environmental literacy. This study assessed the implementation of environmental education school policy in the Buffalo City Metro Education District, South Africa. This study adopted the pragmatism paradigm of Mixed Method Research(MMR). Concurrent triangulation, which is a design that employs a single data collection technique in which quantitative and qualitative data gathering and analysis are carried out independently yet concurrently, was used for this study. The target population of this study involved 60,412 teachers, 1,770,289 learners in 5205 public schools, and 1 Pro-EE civil society organisation in the Eastern Cape province. This was narrowed down to over 268 public and independent schools, teachers, and principals within the enclave of the Buffalo Metropolitan education district. The study adopted stratified purposeful and simple random probability sampling. In this technique, the sampling frame of the study was divided into strata or groups (principals, teachers, learners, and CSOs) and a sample was purposefully selected from each stratum (Migiro & Magangi, 2011). The stratified purposeful random sampling techniques draw data from 10 principals, 175 teachers, 1500 learners, and 1 CSO. Structured questionnaire; Implementation of EE Policy Questionnaire (IEEPQ) whose reliability co-efficient value using Cronbach Alpha was 0.74, semi-structured interview and documents were the instruments used to collect data for this study. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics of percentage, mean, and standard deviation for the quantitative data while the thematic approach of sorting, coding, transcribing, and categorization was used for the qualitative data. The study revealed the following. When asked whether teachers had studied environmental education in tertiary institutions as part of their professional training, the majority of the teachers'respondents, 108, representing 61.7percent, disagreed with this view. On the flip side, a handful of teachers 67, (38.3percent) agreed with the view of having had some sort of EE knowledge during their professional training as teachers. With regards to the view that learners learn environmental issues through other subjects, most of the learner respondents, 1316 representing 87.7percent, agreed with this view. On the contrary, a minority of the respondents 184 (12,3percent) had a dissenting opinion. This indicates that most learners in school learn about environmental concerns through other traditional subjects. The study established that EE content is manifest in teachers' and learners' textbooks, teaching methods, and co-curricular activities. However, the study identified lapses in how teachers and learners integrate EE into their day-to-day practices. Therefore, the implementation of the EE policy seems to be an exercise in futility. The absence of a policy guideline document has made teachers and school administrators incapacitated in the implementation of EE school policy. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, 2022
- Full Text:
Bayesian spatio-temporal zero-inflated mixed models for overdispersion on chronic disease mapping
- Osuji, Georgeleen O https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8408-3928
- Authors: Osuji, Georgeleen O https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8408-3928
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Medical mapping , Bayesian statistical decision theory
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23644 , vital:58230
- Description: Background: Life expectancy in most developing countries has remarkably increased and decreased in mortality, but under 5 years old mortality has increased due to HIV and Tuberculosis incidence. Many factors have been established to influence the mortality rate among HIV patients and understanding the factors contribution to the risk of under 5-year-old mortality is important for designing appropriate health interventions. Excess zeros usually occur in such HIV mortality count data. Mixed models consisting of count part and zero part are often used to describe the observed excess zero in the data. Poisson models are popular modeling inference, but Negative-Binomial models are more flexible in analyzing count data and dealing with overdispersion. Method: This research proposed to develop two-part hurdle models in analyzing areal zero count data. A spatial Bayesian lognormal-logit hurdle model (BLLHM) with random effects characterizes and cross-spatial dependencies were introduced. The parameter inferences and predictions were evaluated using the Markov Chain Monte Carlo algorithm. The model proposed was applied to HIV-positive under 5-year-old mortality collected from the Eastern Cape Department of Health. Results: Bayesian lognormal-logit hurdle model is selected as the best model fit. It is observed that the total number of HIV patients not on ART-HIVnotTB (0.000612, p <0.000) was positively and statistically significantly associated with the HIV-positive mortality of under 5 years patients. Both CD4 counts were done on newly diagnosed HIV rate (CD4count) and HIV-positive new patients screened for TB rate (HIVTBrate) were negatively and statistically significantly associated with the HIV-positive mortality of under 5 years patients (-0.6294, p = 0.000 and -0.00056, p = 0.0052). However, the covariate HIV positive Tuberculosis Preventive therapy (TPT) uptake rate (HIVandTB) was not statistically significantly associated with the HIV-positive mortality of under 5 years patients (-0.00155, p = 0.5392). Conclusion: The model is flexible to deal with zero-inflated and over-dispersed count data. There is a need to consider the risk of cause-specific under-5-year-old mortality in terms of spatial effects. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Osuji, Georgeleen O https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8408-3928
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Medical mapping , Bayesian statistical decision theory
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23644 , vital:58230
- Description: Background: Life expectancy in most developing countries has remarkably increased and decreased in mortality, but under 5 years old mortality has increased due to HIV and Tuberculosis incidence. Many factors have been established to influence the mortality rate among HIV patients and understanding the factors contribution to the risk of under 5-year-old mortality is important for designing appropriate health interventions. Excess zeros usually occur in such HIV mortality count data. Mixed models consisting of count part and zero part are often used to describe the observed excess zero in the data. Poisson models are popular modeling inference, but Negative-Binomial models are more flexible in analyzing count data and dealing with overdispersion. Method: This research proposed to develop two-part hurdle models in analyzing areal zero count data. A spatial Bayesian lognormal-logit hurdle model (BLLHM) with random effects characterizes and cross-spatial dependencies were introduced. The parameter inferences and predictions were evaluated using the Markov Chain Monte Carlo algorithm. The model proposed was applied to HIV-positive under 5-year-old mortality collected from the Eastern Cape Department of Health. Results: Bayesian lognormal-logit hurdle model is selected as the best model fit. It is observed that the total number of HIV patients not on ART-HIVnotTB (0.000612, p <0.000) was positively and statistically significantly associated with the HIV-positive mortality of under 5 years patients. Both CD4 counts were done on newly diagnosed HIV rate (CD4count) and HIV-positive new patients screened for TB rate (HIVTBrate) were negatively and statistically significantly associated with the HIV-positive mortality of under 5 years patients (-0.6294, p = 0.000 and -0.00056, p = 0.0052). However, the covariate HIV positive Tuberculosis Preventive therapy (TPT) uptake rate (HIVandTB) was not statistically significantly associated with the HIV-positive mortality of under 5 years patients (-0.00155, p = 0.5392). Conclusion: The model is flexible to deal with zero-inflated and over-dispersed count data. There is a need to consider the risk of cause-specific under-5-year-old mortality in terms of spatial effects. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
Dualistic role of the Employee Relations Office and its influence on labour relations at the University of Fort Hare
- Authors: Mnqayi, Leon M
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Industrial relations--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23416 , vital:57729
- Description: Employee relations are important for the success of any organisation. Maintaining healthy cordial employee relations usually involves creating understanding and harmony between the employees and the employer. However, due to several dynamics within the work environment, employee relations become complex. The employee relations unit in the human resources management department is tasked with handling this complex situation by dealing with different grievances in organisations. In this regard, in organisations like the University of Fort Hare, the employee relations office represents both the employees and employer. The dualistic role assumed by the employee relations office is associated with several challenges, such as employees not trusting the employee relations office. The employee relations office is deemed to be safeguarding the interests of the management, which complicates employee relations at the university. Therefore, this study sought to explore perceptions on the dualistic role of the employee relations office and its influence on labour relations at the University of Fort Hare. The study utilised a qualitative research methodology to find out perceptions of participants on the dualistic role of the employee relations office and its influence on labour relations at the University of Fort Hare. The research used semi-structured interviews to collect data. The participants were purposively selected from the University of Fort Hare. The Human Relations Theory was used as the main theory, and it provided underpinning arguments regarding employee relations at the University of Fort Hare. The data gathered were thematically analysed. The main findings revealed that there are fragmented employee relations at the university, mainly due to lack of clarity about the standard working conditions that should be expected and that are acceptable by the university. Furthermore, the study also established that the employee relations office is largely seen as biased against employees and seems to favour employers most of the times, leading to disputes being taken to an external party. Based on these findings, the study recommends that to improve objectivity, the employee relations office can create an oversight team that independently provides insights on specific issues faced by employees and management. Improving objectivity should include making decisions based on facts or data, focusing on the vision and mission of the institution, increasing the ratio of positive against negative feedback, improving on transparency during decision-making and the creation of an anonymous human resources engagement system. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mnqayi, Leon M
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Industrial relations--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23416 , vital:57729
- Description: Employee relations are important for the success of any organisation. Maintaining healthy cordial employee relations usually involves creating understanding and harmony between the employees and the employer. However, due to several dynamics within the work environment, employee relations become complex. The employee relations unit in the human resources management department is tasked with handling this complex situation by dealing with different grievances in organisations. In this regard, in organisations like the University of Fort Hare, the employee relations office represents both the employees and employer. The dualistic role assumed by the employee relations office is associated with several challenges, such as employees not trusting the employee relations office. The employee relations office is deemed to be safeguarding the interests of the management, which complicates employee relations at the university. Therefore, this study sought to explore perceptions on the dualistic role of the employee relations office and its influence on labour relations at the University of Fort Hare. The study utilised a qualitative research methodology to find out perceptions of participants on the dualistic role of the employee relations office and its influence on labour relations at the University of Fort Hare. The research used semi-structured interviews to collect data. The participants were purposively selected from the University of Fort Hare. The Human Relations Theory was used as the main theory, and it provided underpinning arguments regarding employee relations at the University of Fort Hare. The data gathered were thematically analysed. The main findings revealed that there are fragmented employee relations at the university, mainly due to lack of clarity about the standard working conditions that should be expected and that are acceptable by the university. Furthermore, the study also established that the employee relations office is largely seen as biased against employees and seems to favour employers most of the times, leading to disputes being taken to an external party. Based on these findings, the study recommends that to improve objectivity, the employee relations office can create an oversight team that independently provides insights on specific issues faced by employees and management. Improving objectivity should include making decisions based on facts or data, focusing on the vision and mission of the institution, increasing the ratio of positive against negative feedback, improving on transparency during decision-making and the creation of an anonymous human resources engagement system. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2021
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Factors influencing the performance of staff members in a tertiary hospital
- Combrink, Cornelius Johannes
- Authors: Combrink, Cornelius Johannes
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Community health services
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21642 , vital:51737
- Description: Healthcare services within a hospital setting are the basic aspects for the success of service delivery and staff performance in this regard. The paramount component of human resources makes a positive contribution to a healthcare system. Recently, it has been recognised that the performance of healthcare personnel ought to be a key factor for a sustainable performance system. Nevertheless, it is generally known that healthcare workers fail to accomplish the anticipated outcomes of health interventions. This concept leads to the research question: Why is the public sector known for poor service delivery and poor performance? This study aims to determine the factors that impact on the health worker’s performance in a tertiary hospital in South-Africa. A framework will be carefully constructed and cautiously implemented to improve and develop the performance of healthcare workers in this hospital. The vast scope and population involved in this study make a quantitative research approach most suitable, along with a non-probability purposive sampling method. A survey method using an electronic questionnaire that was circulated via a web survey, and a paper-based questionnaire that was distributed within the hospital were used to obtain a diverse perception of the healthcare workers. Data analysis included determining factors, group differences and correlations using the SPSS-27 program. The target population included all healthcare workers in the tertiary hospital – from junior employees to senior management level staff. Statistical data analysis collected for this study revealed four major factors (politics-related resources, resource, training and socioeconomic) that play a major role in the trends of performance culture at the selected tertiary hospital. These results lead to the understanding that the hospital is currently experiencing inadequate human resources management components such as recognition of employees who perform above expectations; execution of a performance appraisal system; lack in implementing the annual salary increase; unfavourable working conditions (lack of resources); troublesome management skills, and insufficient feedback on performance outcomes. These features are directly associated with the quality and degree of the performance of healthcare personnel. Based on the results, a management framework was proposed. The framework consists of activities that will improve the healthcare profession; strengthen expertise and knowledge; develop management skills; enhance knowledge through research and, ultimately, upgrade the performance of healthcare personnel. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, Public Health, 2021
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- Authors: Combrink, Cornelius Johannes
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Community health services
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21642 , vital:51737
- Description: Healthcare services within a hospital setting are the basic aspects for the success of service delivery and staff performance in this regard. The paramount component of human resources makes a positive contribution to a healthcare system. Recently, it has been recognised that the performance of healthcare personnel ought to be a key factor for a sustainable performance system. Nevertheless, it is generally known that healthcare workers fail to accomplish the anticipated outcomes of health interventions. This concept leads to the research question: Why is the public sector known for poor service delivery and poor performance? This study aims to determine the factors that impact on the health worker’s performance in a tertiary hospital in South-Africa. A framework will be carefully constructed and cautiously implemented to improve and develop the performance of healthcare workers in this hospital. The vast scope and population involved in this study make a quantitative research approach most suitable, along with a non-probability purposive sampling method. A survey method using an electronic questionnaire that was circulated via a web survey, and a paper-based questionnaire that was distributed within the hospital were used to obtain a diverse perception of the healthcare workers. Data analysis included determining factors, group differences and correlations using the SPSS-27 program. The target population included all healthcare workers in the tertiary hospital – from junior employees to senior management level staff. Statistical data analysis collected for this study revealed four major factors (politics-related resources, resource, training and socioeconomic) that play a major role in the trends of performance culture at the selected tertiary hospital. These results lead to the understanding that the hospital is currently experiencing inadequate human resources management components such as recognition of employees who perform above expectations; execution of a performance appraisal system; lack in implementing the annual salary increase; unfavourable working conditions (lack of resources); troublesome management skills, and insufficient feedback on performance outcomes. These features are directly associated with the quality and degree of the performance of healthcare personnel. Based on the results, a management framework was proposed. The framework consists of activities that will improve the healthcare profession; strengthen expertise and knowledge; develop management skills; enhance knowledge through research and, ultimately, upgrade the performance of healthcare personnel. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, Public Health, 2021
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The impact of COVID-19 on depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress levels in doctors and nurses at a South African health facility
- Authors: Finger-Motsepe, Kelebogile
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: COVID-19 (Disease) , Mental health
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27920 , vital:70880
- Description: Introduction: The emergence of the coronavirus disease of 2019 (Covid-19) has wrought profound and enduring transformations in global health, economic dynamics, and social interactions. However, the comprehensive quantification of the psychological repercussions of the Covid-19 pandemic remains elusive and is poised to compound the preexisting burden of mental health disorders within the general populace. Elevated transmission rates, rapid disease progression within vulnerable demographics, and the absence of definitive curative or preventive measures have collectively contributed to a heightened worldwide state of stress and anxiety. Extensive research has demonstrated that the apprehension and stress associated with Covid-19 are markedly pronounced among healthcare professionals, commonly referred to as front-line workers, in comparison to the general population. The Covid-19-related psychological distress is anticipated to act as a catalyst, exacerbating mental health conditions within high-risk groups. Aims and Objectives: This study endeavours to ascertain the prevalence and severity of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among medical doctors and nurses employed at a regional hospital in South Africa. Methodology: A cross-sectional investigation was conducted to evaluate the presence of anxiety, depression, and stress symptoms among medical doctors and nurses working at a Regional Hospital situated in the Free State Province of South Africa. A purposive sample of 200 participants, comprising all willing doctors and nurses employed at the study site, was enrolled in the study. Findings: The participants exhibited an average age of 42 years and an average tenure of approximately 72 months at the hospital. The majority of participants were of African descent, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:2.3. Female healthcare workers reported significantly higher instances of PTSD than their male counterparts. In the aggregate, 71.4percent of doctors reported symptoms indicative of depression, 73.2percent reported anxiety-related symptoms, and 19.6percent reported PTSD-related symptoms. Among nurses, 72percent displayed clinically significant symptoms of depression, 81percent exhibited anxiety-related symptoms, and 27.7percent manifested symptoms suggestive of PTSD. A moderately robust positive correlation was discerned between PTSD and Anxiety (p = .000; r = .466) as well as PTSD and Depression (p = .000; r = .315). Additionally, a strong positive correlation was identified between Anxiety and Depression (p = .000; r = .631). A statistically significant disparity (p = .030) in anxiety levels was observed among workers in different risk-prone areas. Nurses reported substantially higher levels of anxiety (p = .039; M = 10.63, sd = 4.03) compared to doctors (M = 9.01, sd = 3.80) and administrators (M = 10.50, sd = 4.32). Moreover, both nurses (M = 27.06, sd = 13.61) and administrators (M = 33.33, sd = 14.44) exhibited significantly higher instances of PTSD (p = .003) than doctors (M = 19.96, sd = 15.03). Conclusions: The healthcare workers under scrutiny reported elevated levels of anxiety and depression attributable to the Covid-19 pandemic, although the prevalence of posttraumatic stress symptoms was comparatively lower within the hospital setting. Furthermore, this study illuminates that depressive, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress symptoms were more prevalent among nurses than doctors. Additionally, healthcare professionals operating in high-risk Covid-19 environments, such as the Covid-19 ward, demonstrated heightened levels of anxiety when juxtaposed with their counterparts stationed in low-risk Covid-19 areas within the healthcare facility. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
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- Authors: Finger-Motsepe, Kelebogile
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: COVID-19 (Disease) , Mental health
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27920 , vital:70880
- Description: Introduction: The emergence of the coronavirus disease of 2019 (Covid-19) has wrought profound and enduring transformations in global health, economic dynamics, and social interactions. However, the comprehensive quantification of the psychological repercussions of the Covid-19 pandemic remains elusive and is poised to compound the preexisting burden of mental health disorders within the general populace. Elevated transmission rates, rapid disease progression within vulnerable demographics, and the absence of definitive curative or preventive measures have collectively contributed to a heightened worldwide state of stress and anxiety. Extensive research has demonstrated that the apprehension and stress associated with Covid-19 are markedly pronounced among healthcare professionals, commonly referred to as front-line workers, in comparison to the general population. The Covid-19-related psychological distress is anticipated to act as a catalyst, exacerbating mental health conditions within high-risk groups. Aims and Objectives: This study endeavours to ascertain the prevalence and severity of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among medical doctors and nurses employed at a regional hospital in South Africa. Methodology: A cross-sectional investigation was conducted to evaluate the presence of anxiety, depression, and stress symptoms among medical doctors and nurses working at a Regional Hospital situated in the Free State Province of South Africa. A purposive sample of 200 participants, comprising all willing doctors and nurses employed at the study site, was enrolled in the study. Findings: The participants exhibited an average age of 42 years and an average tenure of approximately 72 months at the hospital. The majority of participants were of African descent, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:2.3. Female healthcare workers reported significantly higher instances of PTSD than their male counterparts. In the aggregate, 71.4percent of doctors reported symptoms indicative of depression, 73.2percent reported anxiety-related symptoms, and 19.6percent reported PTSD-related symptoms. Among nurses, 72percent displayed clinically significant symptoms of depression, 81percent exhibited anxiety-related symptoms, and 27.7percent manifested symptoms suggestive of PTSD. A moderately robust positive correlation was discerned between PTSD and Anxiety (p = .000; r = .466) as well as PTSD and Depression (p = .000; r = .315). Additionally, a strong positive correlation was identified between Anxiety and Depression (p = .000; r = .631). A statistically significant disparity (p = .030) in anxiety levels was observed among workers in different risk-prone areas. Nurses reported substantially higher levels of anxiety (p = .039; M = 10.63, sd = 4.03) compared to doctors (M = 9.01, sd = 3.80) and administrators (M = 10.50, sd = 4.32). Moreover, both nurses (M = 27.06, sd = 13.61) and administrators (M = 33.33, sd = 14.44) exhibited significantly higher instances of PTSD (p = .003) than doctors (M = 19.96, sd = 15.03). Conclusions: The healthcare workers under scrutiny reported elevated levels of anxiety and depression attributable to the Covid-19 pandemic, although the prevalence of posttraumatic stress symptoms was comparatively lower within the hospital setting. Furthermore, this study illuminates that depressive, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress symptoms were more prevalent among nurses than doctors. Additionally, healthcare professionals operating in high-risk Covid-19 environments, such as the Covid-19 ward, demonstrated heightened levels of anxiety when juxtaposed with their counterparts stationed in low-risk Covid-19 areas within the healthcare facility. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
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