A comparison of open source object-oriented database products
- Authors: Khayundi, Peter
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Object-oriented databases , Relational databases , Database management , Database selection , Database searching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Computer Science)
- Identifier: vital:11384 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/254 , Object-oriented databases , Relational databases , Database management , Database selection , Database searching
- Description: Object oriented databases have been gaining popularity over the years. Their ease of use and the advantages that they offer over relational databases have made them a popular choice amongst database administrators. Their use in previous years was restricted to business and administrative applications, but improvements in technology and the emergence of new, data-intensive applications has led to the increase in the use of object databases. This study investigates four Open Source object-oriented databases on their ability to carry out the standard database operations of storing, querying, updating and deleting database objects. Each of these databases will be timed in order to measure which is capable of performing a particular function faster than the other.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Khayundi, Peter
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Object-oriented databases , Relational databases , Database management , Database selection , Database searching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Computer Science)
- Identifier: vital:11384 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/254 , Object-oriented databases , Relational databases , Database management , Database selection , Database searching
- Description: Object oriented databases have been gaining popularity over the years. Their ease of use and the advantages that they offer over relational databases have made them a popular choice amongst database administrators. Their use in previous years was restricted to business and administrative applications, but improvements in technology and the emergence of new, data-intensive applications has led to the increase in the use of object databases. This study investigates four Open Source object-oriented databases on their ability to carry out the standard database operations of storing, querying, updating and deleting database objects. Each of these databases will be timed in order to measure which is capable of performing a particular function faster than the other.
- Full Text:
A socio-economic impact assessment (SEIA) of the best management practices (BMP) project of the Zanyokwe irrigation scheme at farm level
- Authors: Tshuma, Mengezi Chancellor
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape--Zanyokwe , Irrigation projects -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Zanyokwe , Irrigation -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Zanyokwe , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Zanyokwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11190 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/139 , Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape--Zanyokwe , Irrigation projects -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Zanyokwe , Irrigation -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Zanyokwe , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Zanyokwe
- Description: The main aim of this study was to assess the impact of the Best Management Practices (BMP) project on social and economic wellbeing at Zanyokwe Irrigation Scheme (ZIS) in central Eastern Cape Province. The BMP project is a knowledge-based initiative aimed at introducing management practices (mainly soft skills) in order to improve production and livelihoods in the study area. The study employed a survey to collect socio-economic data amongst farming households. The 2005 situation analysis, which was conducted amongst the same respondents before the introduction of the new practices allowed for comparisons in order to track changes or impacts after the implementation of the project. Also, the social and economic impact assessment (SEIA) framework was used to assess the impacts. The results of the impact assessment showed the BMP project to have an impact on social and economic well being of households. The skills introduced were in the areas of water management, agronomic practices, marketing and institutional arrangements. More than 90% indicated that there was improvement in agronomic practices and water management and 68% in marketing. More than half of farmers worked in their farms on a daily basis, which is a big change as none of the farmers worked during weekends in 2005. The average time spent on the farms also increased from four (in 2005) to seven hours (this investigation) on average per day. The BMP project also had a positive impact on social relationships and networks between farmers and the BMP project team as well as well as farmers and non-farmers. Land use intensity improved due to increases in acreage of main crops as well as cultivating at both seasons. More than 40% of farmers cropped their land at both seasons (winter and summer). In 2005, most of the land was fallow in winter. While some of the new practices introduced had a negative impact on input expenditures, the returns were positive. These extra efforts and expenditures resulted in improvement in incomes. Agricultural contribution to household income increased from 71% in 2005 to 81% in 2007. The increase in household incomes had a positive effect on poverty and food security status of households. The proportion of households earning incomes that are below poverty line dropped from 61% in 2005 to 38% in 2007. Changes in the diet of the households were noticed. In addition to the consumption of staples such as samp, maize meal and rice, people added a variety of vegetables. Own production was the main source of these vegetables as was indicated by 66% of respondents compared to only 25% in 2005. Food remained the main expenditure category though, as was the case in 2005. Improvements in marketing such as performing extra marketing functions and adopting a marketing strategy (collective action) also led to improvements in economic wellbeing.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Tshuma, Mengezi Chancellor
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape--Zanyokwe , Irrigation projects -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Zanyokwe , Irrigation -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Zanyokwe , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Zanyokwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11190 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/139 , Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape--Zanyokwe , Irrigation projects -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Zanyokwe , Irrigation -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Zanyokwe , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Zanyokwe
- Description: The main aim of this study was to assess the impact of the Best Management Practices (BMP) project on social and economic wellbeing at Zanyokwe Irrigation Scheme (ZIS) in central Eastern Cape Province. The BMP project is a knowledge-based initiative aimed at introducing management practices (mainly soft skills) in order to improve production and livelihoods in the study area. The study employed a survey to collect socio-economic data amongst farming households. The 2005 situation analysis, which was conducted amongst the same respondents before the introduction of the new practices allowed for comparisons in order to track changes or impacts after the implementation of the project. Also, the social and economic impact assessment (SEIA) framework was used to assess the impacts. The results of the impact assessment showed the BMP project to have an impact on social and economic well being of households. The skills introduced were in the areas of water management, agronomic practices, marketing and institutional arrangements. More than 90% indicated that there was improvement in agronomic practices and water management and 68% in marketing. More than half of farmers worked in their farms on a daily basis, which is a big change as none of the farmers worked during weekends in 2005. The average time spent on the farms also increased from four (in 2005) to seven hours (this investigation) on average per day. The BMP project also had a positive impact on social relationships and networks between farmers and the BMP project team as well as well as farmers and non-farmers. Land use intensity improved due to increases in acreage of main crops as well as cultivating at both seasons. More than 40% of farmers cropped their land at both seasons (winter and summer). In 2005, most of the land was fallow in winter. While some of the new practices introduced had a negative impact on input expenditures, the returns were positive. These extra efforts and expenditures resulted in improvement in incomes. Agricultural contribution to household income increased from 71% in 2005 to 81% in 2007. The increase in household incomes had a positive effect on poverty and food security status of households. The proportion of households earning incomes that are below poverty line dropped from 61% in 2005 to 38% in 2007. Changes in the diet of the households were noticed. In addition to the consumption of staples such as samp, maize meal and rice, people added a variety of vegetables. Own production was the main source of these vegetables as was indicated by 66% of respondents compared to only 25% in 2005. Food remained the main expenditure category though, as was the case in 2005. Improvements in marketing such as performing extra marketing functions and adopting a marketing strategy (collective action) also led to improvements in economic wellbeing.
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A study on the effects of mental illness on relationships amongst families with the mentally ill members
- Authors: Magadla, Mfanisi Welcome
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Families -- Health and hygiene , Mentally ill -- Home care , Mentally ill -- Family relationships , Mental illness
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11901 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1001101 , Families -- Health and hygiene , Mentally ill -- Home care , Mentally ill -- Family relationships , Mental illness
- Description: The increased abscondment of Mental Health Care Users from institutions of care, treatment and rehabilitation has prompted the researcher to conduct the study because patients who are not visited do not stand a chance of getting a Leave Of Absence (LOA). Problem: The concern is the danger of assault, murder, rape and other high risk situations the mentally ill individuals and the community are exposed to, which is caused by frequent abscondment of mentally unstable individuals who roam around the community without proper treatment and care. This is caused by failure of the relatives in coming to request patients for leave of absence (LOA). Purpose: The study investigated the effects of mental illness on relationships amongst families with the mentally ill members. The number or frequency of visitations by relatives to the mental health institutions is used by the researcher, to measure the nature of relationships between families and the psychiatric patients related to them. Method: The population comprised families of the mentally ill persons admitted at Cecilia Makiwane mental health units. The sample was collected conveniently as relatives came to visit the mentally ill until the desired number was reached. The designed tool was a questionnaire which was self administered. Data were analysed manually. Tables and graphs are shown in the results. Conclusion and Recommendations: The study revealed that approximately 100% of respondents had a lack of knowledge about mental illness and the mentally ill, in terms of care, treatment and rehabilitation hence they all need assistance in dealing with the mentally ill in the community. Findings also revealed that mental illness causes breakdown in family relationships. Recommendations regarding the enhancement of relationships between families and their mentally ill members are formulated as coping skills in the dissertation. The burden of having to deal with mentally ill person whose illness is not understood can lead the family to a state of confusion and iv not knowing what to anticipate. Lack of resources compounds the problem as the family members are not able to visit the ill member due to lack of funds (Baumann, 2007:637). The families with a mentally ill member usually shoulder the greatest part of the burden of mental illness (Uys and Middleton, 2004:77); unfortunately, lack of resources pose a problem.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Magadla, Mfanisi Welcome
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Families -- Health and hygiene , Mentally ill -- Home care , Mentally ill -- Family relationships , Mental illness
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11901 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1001101 , Families -- Health and hygiene , Mentally ill -- Home care , Mentally ill -- Family relationships , Mental illness
- Description: The increased abscondment of Mental Health Care Users from institutions of care, treatment and rehabilitation has prompted the researcher to conduct the study because patients who are not visited do not stand a chance of getting a Leave Of Absence (LOA). Problem: The concern is the danger of assault, murder, rape and other high risk situations the mentally ill individuals and the community are exposed to, which is caused by frequent abscondment of mentally unstable individuals who roam around the community without proper treatment and care. This is caused by failure of the relatives in coming to request patients for leave of absence (LOA). Purpose: The study investigated the effects of mental illness on relationships amongst families with the mentally ill members. The number or frequency of visitations by relatives to the mental health institutions is used by the researcher, to measure the nature of relationships between families and the psychiatric patients related to them. Method: The population comprised families of the mentally ill persons admitted at Cecilia Makiwane mental health units. The sample was collected conveniently as relatives came to visit the mentally ill until the desired number was reached. The designed tool was a questionnaire which was self administered. Data were analysed manually. Tables and graphs are shown in the results. Conclusion and Recommendations: The study revealed that approximately 100% of respondents had a lack of knowledge about mental illness and the mentally ill, in terms of care, treatment and rehabilitation hence they all need assistance in dealing with the mentally ill in the community. Findings also revealed that mental illness causes breakdown in family relationships. Recommendations regarding the enhancement of relationships between families and their mentally ill members are formulated as coping skills in the dissertation. The burden of having to deal with mentally ill person whose illness is not understood can lead the family to a state of confusion and iv not knowing what to anticipate. Lack of resources compounds the problem as the family members are not able to visit the ill member due to lack of funds (Baumann, 2007:637). The families with a mentally ill member usually shoulder the greatest part of the burden of mental illness (Uys and Middleton, 2004:77); unfortunately, lack of resources pose a problem.
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A study on the knowledge and skills of police officers in handling mentally ill persons in Mdantsane in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
- Authors: Kolwapi, Xola Xolani
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Mentally ill -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Police -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , People with disabilities -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11902 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/406 , Mentally ill -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Police -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , People with disabilities -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The dissertation argues that police officers are not trained in handling mentally ill persons. Purpose The study explored police officers‟ knowledge of mental illness and skills necessary for handling mentally ill people. Research methods The descriptive quantitative investigation has been used as a research strategy to identify the knowledge and skills of police officers in handling mentally ill persons. Forty five police officers were randomly selected from a population of 136 police officers. A self administered questionnaire was used for collecting data. Data analysis was done manually and frequency distributions, cross-tabulations and correlations were carried out. Results The findings revealed that police officers do not have knowledge and skills to handle mentally ill people. Recommendations It is recommended that mental health care practitioners should engage the police in discussions on training in handling mentally ill people. iv Limitations Due to time and budgetary limitations, the study had to settle for a more modest investigation
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- Authors: Kolwapi, Xola Xolani
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Mentally ill -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Police -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , People with disabilities -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11902 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/406 , Mentally ill -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Police -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , People with disabilities -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The dissertation argues that police officers are not trained in handling mentally ill persons. Purpose The study explored police officers‟ knowledge of mental illness and skills necessary for handling mentally ill people. Research methods The descriptive quantitative investigation has been used as a research strategy to identify the knowledge and skills of police officers in handling mentally ill persons. Forty five police officers were randomly selected from a population of 136 police officers. A self administered questionnaire was used for collecting data. Data analysis was done manually and frequency distributions, cross-tabulations and correlations were carried out. Results The findings revealed that police officers do not have knowledge and skills to handle mentally ill people. Recommendations It is recommended that mental health care practitioners should engage the police in discussions on training in handling mentally ill people. iv Limitations Due to time and budgetary limitations, the study had to settle for a more modest investigation
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Access to credit and the effect of credit constraints on household welfare in the Eastern Cape province, South Africa
- Baiyegunhi, Lloyd-James Segun
- Authors: Baiyegunhi, Lloyd-James Segun
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Rural poor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Households -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Investments -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Finance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Credit -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11153 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1000977 , Rural poor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Households -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Investments -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Finance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Credit -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: In recent years, concern about food safety linked to health issues has seen a rise in private food safety standards in addition to the regulations set by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO). These have presented challenges to producers and exporters of agricultural food products especially the producers of fresh fruits and vegetables. In spite of the food safety-linked challenges from the demand side, the vast range of business-environment forces pose equally formidable challenges that negatively impact on the exporting industries’ ability to maintain or improve their market shares and their ability to compete in world markets. The objective of this study was therefore to establish the competitiveness of the South African citrus industry in the international markets within this prevailing scenario. Due to the diversity of the definitions of competitiveness as a concept, this study formulated the following working definition: “the ability to create, deliver and maintain value and constant market share through strategic management of the industrial environment or competitiveness drivers”. This was based on the understanding that the international market shares of an industry are a function of forces in the business environment which range from intra-industry, external and national as well as the international elements. The unit of analysis were the citrus producers engaged in export of their products and the study made use of 151 responses by producers. The study adopted a five-step approach to the analysis of the performance of the South African citrus industry in the global markets, starting with the analysis of the Constant Market Share (CMS) of the South African citrus industry in various world markets, establishing the impact of the business environmental factors upon competitiveness, establishing the costs of compliance with private food safety standards, determining the non-price benefits of compliance with the standards, as well as highlighting the strategies for enhancing long-term competitiveness of the industry in the international markets. South Africa is one of the top three countries dominating the citrus fruit export market. Since its entry into the citrus fruit exports market in the 1900s, the industry has sustained its activity in the international market. The Constant Market Share Analysis shows that, amidst the challenges on the international market side, and the changes in the business environment, over much of which the industry has limited control and influence, the industry has maintained its competitive advantage in several markets. The CMS shows that South Africa’s lemons are competitive in America. Despite a negative trend, the South African grapefruit has been competitive in France, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain. Oranges have been competitive in the Greece, Italy, Portugal, UK, Asian and Northern Europe markets. Competitiveness in these markets has been due to the inherent competitiveness of the industry. Competitiveness in such markets as the Middle East has been attributed to the relatively rapid growth of these markets. The South African citrus industry has similarly undergone many major processes of transformation. The business environmental factors influencing its performance have ranged reform to the challenges beyond the country’s borders. These factors directly and indirectly affect the performance of the industry in the export market. They have influenced the flow of fruits into different international destinations. Of major concern are the food safety and private standards. Challenges in traditional markets as well as opportunities presented by demand from newly emerging citrus consuming nations have seen a diversification in the marketing of the South African citrus. The intensity of competition in the global market is reflected by the fluctuations in the market shares in different markets as well as the increase and fluctuations of fruit rejection rates in some lucrative markets such as America. A combination of challenging national environmental forces and stringent demand conditions negatively impact on revenues especially from markets characterised by price competitiveness. This study identified cost of production, foreign market support systems, adaptability, worker skills, challenges of management in an international environment and government policies such as labour and trade policies as some of the most influential obstacles to competitiveness. Some of the most competiveness-enhancing factors were market availability, market size, market information, market growth and the availability of research institutions. However, compliance with private standards still poses a challenge to the exporters. The different performance levels of the industry in various markets prove the dissimilarity of the demand conditions in the global market. These are supported by the negative influence associated with the foreign market support regimes as well as the challenges associated with compliance with private food safety standards. While market availability, market growth, market information and size were identified as enhancing competitiveness, the fluctuations and inconsistencies in the competitiveness of the industry in different foreign markets require more than finding markets. Resource allocation by both the government and the industry may need to take into account the off-setting of the national challenges and support of farmers faced with distorted and unfair international playing fields. Otherwise, market availability is not a challenge for the industry save meeting the specifications therewith as well as price competitiveness which is unattainable for the South African citrus producers faced with high production costs. For the purposes of further study, it is recommended that account should be taken of all the products marketed by the industry (including processed products such as fruit juices) in order to have a whole picture of the competitiveness of the industry in the international market. This study also proffers a new theoretical framework for the analysis of the business environment for the citrus industry and other agro-businesses. This framework takes into account the indispensability of the food safety standards and measures as well as the diversity of the global consumer and the non-negotiability of food trade for the sustenance of the growing population.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Baiyegunhi, Lloyd-James Segun
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Rural poor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Households -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Investments -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Finance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Credit -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11153 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1000977 , Rural poor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Households -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Investments -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Finance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Credit -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: In recent years, concern about food safety linked to health issues has seen a rise in private food safety standards in addition to the regulations set by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO). These have presented challenges to producers and exporters of agricultural food products especially the producers of fresh fruits and vegetables. In spite of the food safety-linked challenges from the demand side, the vast range of business-environment forces pose equally formidable challenges that negatively impact on the exporting industries’ ability to maintain or improve their market shares and their ability to compete in world markets. The objective of this study was therefore to establish the competitiveness of the South African citrus industry in the international markets within this prevailing scenario. Due to the diversity of the definitions of competitiveness as a concept, this study formulated the following working definition: “the ability to create, deliver and maintain value and constant market share through strategic management of the industrial environment or competitiveness drivers”. This was based on the understanding that the international market shares of an industry are a function of forces in the business environment which range from intra-industry, external and national as well as the international elements. The unit of analysis were the citrus producers engaged in export of their products and the study made use of 151 responses by producers. The study adopted a five-step approach to the analysis of the performance of the South African citrus industry in the global markets, starting with the analysis of the Constant Market Share (CMS) of the South African citrus industry in various world markets, establishing the impact of the business environmental factors upon competitiveness, establishing the costs of compliance with private food safety standards, determining the non-price benefits of compliance with the standards, as well as highlighting the strategies for enhancing long-term competitiveness of the industry in the international markets. South Africa is one of the top three countries dominating the citrus fruit export market. Since its entry into the citrus fruit exports market in the 1900s, the industry has sustained its activity in the international market. The Constant Market Share Analysis shows that, amidst the challenges on the international market side, and the changes in the business environment, over much of which the industry has limited control and influence, the industry has maintained its competitive advantage in several markets. The CMS shows that South Africa’s lemons are competitive in America. Despite a negative trend, the South African grapefruit has been competitive in France, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain. Oranges have been competitive in the Greece, Italy, Portugal, UK, Asian and Northern Europe markets. Competitiveness in these markets has been due to the inherent competitiveness of the industry. Competitiveness in such markets as the Middle East has been attributed to the relatively rapid growth of these markets. The South African citrus industry has similarly undergone many major processes of transformation. The business environmental factors influencing its performance have ranged reform to the challenges beyond the country’s borders. These factors directly and indirectly affect the performance of the industry in the export market. They have influenced the flow of fruits into different international destinations. Of major concern are the food safety and private standards. Challenges in traditional markets as well as opportunities presented by demand from newly emerging citrus consuming nations have seen a diversification in the marketing of the South African citrus. The intensity of competition in the global market is reflected by the fluctuations in the market shares in different markets as well as the increase and fluctuations of fruit rejection rates in some lucrative markets such as America. A combination of challenging national environmental forces and stringent demand conditions negatively impact on revenues especially from markets characterised by price competitiveness. This study identified cost of production, foreign market support systems, adaptability, worker skills, challenges of management in an international environment and government policies such as labour and trade policies as some of the most influential obstacles to competitiveness. Some of the most competiveness-enhancing factors were market availability, market size, market information, market growth and the availability of research institutions. However, compliance with private standards still poses a challenge to the exporters. The different performance levels of the industry in various markets prove the dissimilarity of the demand conditions in the global market. These are supported by the negative influence associated with the foreign market support regimes as well as the challenges associated with compliance with private food safety standards. While market availability, market growth, market information and size were identified as enhancing competitiveness, the fluctuations and inconsistencies in the competitiveness of the industry in different foreign markets require more than finding markets. Resource allocation by both the government and the industry may need to take into account the off-setting of the national challenges and support of farmers faced with distorted and unfair international playing fields. Otherwise, market availability is not a challenge for the industry save meeting the specifications therewith as well as price competitiveness which is unattainable for the South African citrus producers faced with high production costs. For the purposes of further study, it is recommended that account should be taken of all the products marketed by the industry (including processed products such as fruit juices) in order to have a whole picture of the competitiveness of the industry in the international market. This study also proffers a new theoretical framework for the analysis of the business environment for the citrus industry and other agro-businesses. This framework takes into account the indispensability of the food safety standards and measures as well as the diversity of the global consumer and the non-negotiability of food trade for the sustenance of the growing population.
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Alternative practices used by resource-limited farmers to control fleas in free-range chickens in the Eastern Cape province, South Africa
- Authors: Moyo, Sipho
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Fleas -- Control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Insect baits and repellents -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Insecticides -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chickens -- Parasites -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Parasites -- Control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chickens -- Diseases -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11802 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/393 , Fleas -- Control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Insect baits and repellents -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Insecticides -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chickens -- Parasites -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Parasites -- Control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chickens -- Diseases -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Fleas are one of the major external parasites affecting free range chickens, causing irritation, tissue damage, blood loss and toxicosis which in turn affect quality and quantity of meat and egg production. There are many commercial insecticides available that are effective against fleas. These commercial insecticides have, however become expensive to most resourcelimited farmers and therefore unaffordable, causing farmers to seek low cost alternatives. This study was conducted to document, determine the existence of external parasites in freerange chickens and validate the alternative remedies used in controlling free-range chicken fleas by resource-limited farmers. A questionnaire survey was used to collect data on external parasites of free-range chickens and ethno-veterinary control remedies used by resourcelimited farmers to control these parasites at Amatola basin, in Eastern Cape, South Africa. Resource-limited farmers perceived that mites (79.6%), fleas (64.5%), lice (10.8%) and ticks (6.5%) were problematic parasites of chickens. To control these parasites, resource-limited farmers commonly use ash (28%) madubula (13% carbolic acid) (26.7%), Jeyes fluid (13% carbolic acid) (10%), paraffin (8.4%), used engine oil (2.8%), plants Tagetes minuta, Clutia pulchella, Calpurnia aurea (5.2%) and a few (4.2%) used commercial drugs Karbadust (Carbarly 5%) and mercaptothion 5%. About 7.5% of the respondents used neither of the remedies. To confirm the farmers’ perception on problematic external parasites of free-range chickens a diagnostic survey was conducted. Fifty free-range chickens were randomly selected and examined for external parasites. About 96% of the free-range chickens examined harboured at least one species of external parasites. Fleas (Echidnophaga gallinacea) (50.7%) were the most prevalent followed by lice, Menopon gallinae (12.4%); Menacanthus stramineus (5.3%) and Knemidocoptes mutans (0.57%). Given that Jeyes fluid, used engine oil, paraffin, C. aurea, C. pulchella and T. minuta were mainly used in controlling these parasites, it was important to determine the potential dermal irritant effects of these plants. A dermal irritant effect test was, therefore, conducted using a rat model. Forty eight rats, with parts of the backs shaven, were used to screen the materials for irritation. All the materials tested did not cause any visible skin irritation on rats (p>0.05). Regarding that ethnoveterinary materials were non irritant on rat skin in vitro repellency and contact bio-assay models were used to assess the insecticidal properties of Tagetes minuta, Calpurnia aurea, Clutia pulchella, used engine oil, paraffin and Jeyes fluid on fleas. For the in vitro bioassay T. minuta and Jeyes fluid at 100% concentration demonstrated a repellency level of 76 and 83%, respectively. Tagetes minuta was the most effective among plant materials (p<0.05). Clutia pulchella, C. aurea, used engine oil and paraffin showed insignificant repellency (p>0.05). For the contact bio-assay, C. pulchella, C. aurea and T. minuta at a concentration of 100% resulted in flea mortality of 83.5, 73.3 and 42.5%, respectively. The efficacy of Clutia pulchella compared well with that of Karbadust which had a mean mortality of 97.5%. Paraffin, used engine oil, and Jeyes fluid (19.2%) caused higher flea mortality of more than 82%. In the in vivo study 60 free-range chickens were artificially infested with fleas and test materials were topically applied on infested sites. Test materials exhibited varying flea load reduction efficacy. Used engine oil and Jeyes fluid at 76.8% concentration had a reduction efficacy of 100 and 96% after 3 days post application of test materials. These were not significantly different to that of the positive control Kabadust (carbaryl 5%). The plants C. pulchella and C aurea at 100% concentration had an efficacy of 92 and 77%, respectively. The commonly used remedies by resource-limited farmers to control fleas vary in efficacy. Some of the materials are as effective as the commercial insecticides hence they have a potential to be exploited as insecticides. Further investigations on plant compounds with insecticidal properties and their toxicity, need to be conducted before the plants are recommended for use.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Moyo, Sipho
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Fleas -- Control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Insect baits and repellents -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Insecticides -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chickens -- Parasites -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Parasites -- Control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chickens -- Diseases -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11802 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/393 , Fleas -- Control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Insect baits and repellents -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Insecticides -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chickens -- Parasites -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Parasites -- Control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chickens -- Diseases -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Fleas are one of the major external parasites affecting free range chickens, causing irritation, tissue damage, blood loss and toxicosis which in turn affect quality and quantity of meat and egg production. There are many commercial insecticides available that are effective against fleas. These commercial insecticides have, however become expensive to most resourcelimited farmers and therefore unaffordable, causing farmers to seek low cost alternatives. This study was conducted to document, determine the existence of external parasites in freerange chickens and validate the alternative remedies used in controlling free-range chicken fleas by resource-limited farmers. A questionnaire survey was used to collect data on external parasites of free-range chickens and ethno-veterinary control remedies used by resourcelimited farmers to control these parasites at Amatola basin, in Eastern Cape, South Africa. Resource-limited farmers perceived that mites (79.6%), fleas (64.5%), lice (10.8%) and ticks (6.5%) were problematic parasites of chickens. To control these parasites, resource-limited farmers commonly use ash (28%) madubula (13% carbolic acid) (26.7%), Jeyes fluid (13% carbolic acid) (10%), paraffin (8.4%), used engine oil (2.8%), plants Tagetes minuta, Clutia pulchella, Calpurnia aurea (5.2%) and a few (4.2%) used commercial drugs Karbadust (Carbarly 5%) and mercaptothion 5%. About 7.5% of the respondents used neither of the remedies. To confirm the farmers’ perception on problematic external parasites of free-range chickens a diagnostic survey was conducted. Fifty free-range chickens were randomly selected and examined for external parasites. About 96% of the free-range chickens examined harboured at least one species of external parasites. Fleas (Echidnophaga gallinacea) (50.7%) were the most prevalent followed by lice, Menopon gallinae (12.4%); Menacanthus stramineus (5.3%) and Knemidocoptes mutans (0.57%). Given that Jeyes fluid, used engine oil, paraffin, C. aurea, C. pulchella and T. minuta were mainly used in controlling these parasites, it was important to determine the potential dermal irritant effects of these plants. A dermal irritant effect test was, therefore, conducted using a rat model. Forty eight rats, with parts of the backs shaven, were used to screen the materials for irritation. All the materials tested did not cause any visible skin irritation on rats (p>0.05). Regarding that ethnoveterinary materials were non irritant on rat skin in vitro repellency and contact bio-assay models were used to assess the insecticidal properties of Tagetes minuta, Calpurnia aurea, Clutia pulchella, used engine oil, paraffin and Jeyes fluid on fleas. For the in vitro bioassay T. minuta and Jeyes fluid at 100% concentration demonstrated a repellency level of 76 and 83%, respectively. Tagetes minuta was the most effective among plant materials (p<0.05). Clutia pulchella, C. aurea, used engine oil and paraffin showed insignificant repellency (p>0.05). For the contact bio-assay, C. pulchella, C. aurea and T. minuta at a concentration of 100% resulted in flea mortality of 83.5, 73.3 and 42.5%, respectively. The efficacy of Clutia pulchella compared well with that of Karbadust which had a mean mortality of 97.5%. Paraffin, used engine oil, and Jeyes fluid (19.2%) caused higher flea mortality of more than 82%. In the in vivo study 60 free-range chickens were artificially infested with fleas and test materials were topically applied on infested sites. Test materials exhibited varying flea load reduction efficacy. Used engine oil and Jeyes fluid at 76.8% concentration had a reduction efficacy of 100 and 96% after 3 days post application of test materials. These were not significantly different to that of the positive control Kabadust (carbaryl 5%). The plants C. pulchella and C aurea at 100% concentration had an efficacy of 92 and 77%, respectively. The commonly used remedies by resource-limited farmers to control fleas vary in efficacy. Some of the materials are as effective as the commercial insecticides hence they have a potential to be exploited as insecticides. Further investigations on plant compounds with insecticidal properties and their toxicity, need to be conducted before the plants are recommended for use.
- Full Text:
Bioconditioning and nitrogen fertility effects of selected cyanobacteria strains on two degraded soils in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Maqubela, Mfundo Phakama
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Nostoc , Cyanobacteria , Soil fertility -- Testing , Soils -- Nitrogen content , Cyanobacteria -- Biotechnology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Soil Science)
- Identifier: vital:11959 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/558 , Nostoc , Cyanobacteria , Soil fertility -- Testing , Soils -- Nitrogen content , Cyanobacteria -- Biotechnology
- Description: Some cyanobacteria strains have biofertilization and bioconditioning effects in soils. The objective of this study was to identify cyanobacteria with potential to improve the N fertility and structural stability of degraded soils and evaluate their effectiveness in soils of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Isolation and characterization of the indigenous cyanobacteria strains with desirable properties was first to be undertaken because their effects are known to differ from strain to strain. Cyanobacteria strains 3g, 3v, and 7e were identified from 97 strains isolated from selected soils. Nostoc strains 3g and 3v had greater ability to produce exocellular polysaccharides (EPS) but low potential to fix atmospheric N2 (4.7 and 1.3 nmol C2H4 μg chl-1 h-1, respectively). On the other hand, strain 7e had the highest capability to fix atmospheric N2 (16.1 nmol C2H4 μg chl-1 h-1) but had the least ability to produce EPS. Evaluation of the strains was done in glasshouse studies starting with Nostoc strain 9v isolated from a Tanzanian soil, followed by the indigenous strains isolated from soils in Hertzog and Qunu, South Africa. Inoculation was done by uniformly applying cyanobacteria on the surface of potted soils at a rate of 6 g m-2. First harvest and soil sampling took place after six weeks, and the top 25 mm of the soil was mixed, replanted, and sampled again after a further six weeks (second harvest). Inoculation with Nostoc strain 9v increased soil N by 40 percent and 17 percent in Guquka and Hertzog soils, respectively, and consequently increased maize dry matter yields by 40 and 49 percent. Soil C increased by 27 percent and 8 percent in Guquka and Hertzog soils, respectively, and this increase was significantly associated with that of soil N (R2 = 0.838). Higher contents of soil C, soil N and mineral N, however, were found in non-cropped soils. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed coatings of EPS on soil particles and fragments of non-cropped inoculated soils, with iii other particles enmeshed in networks of filaments, in contrast to cropped and/or non-inoculated soils. The proportion of very stable aggregates was increased by inoculation but cropping with maize reduced the aggregate stability. Inoculating Hertzog soil with indigenous strains 3g and 7e increased the nitrate N in the first cropping by 49 percent and 69 percent respectively, in cropped soils. In the second cropping increases in mineral N were 41 percent and 43 percent in 3g and 7e inoculated soils, respectively. Maize dry matter yields were higher on inoculated soils both in the first and second harvest in response to the improved N status of the soil. Increases in aggregate MWD in cropped soil as determined by fast wetting, mechanical breakdown and slow wetting were 85 percent, 33 percent, 33 percent, respectively, for 3g inoculation, 64 percent, 41 percent, and 41 percent, respectively, for 7e inoculation and 60 percent, 24 percent, 50 percent for inoculation with 9v. In non-cropped soil, increases in MWD as determined by fast wetting, mechanical breakdown and slow wetting were 11 percent, 0 percent, 7 percent, respectively for 3g inoculation, 21 percent, 11 percent, and 7 percent, respectively for 7e inoculation, and 25 percent, 36 percent, and 19 percent for strain 9v inoculation. Scanning electron microscopy observations, which were confirmed by chemical results, revealed that inoculated soils had high EPS and filaments that encouraged soil aggregation and improved aggregate stability. Results of this study show that cyanobacteria strains isolated and selected for their ability to fix atmospheric N2 and produce EPS improved the fertility status and aggregate stability of degraded soils from South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Maqubela, Mfundo Phakama
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Nostoc , Cyanobacteria , Soil fertility -- Testing , Soils -- Nitrogen content , Cyanobacteria -- Biotechnology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Soil Science)
- Identifier: vital:11959 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/558 , Nostoc , Cyanobacteria , Soil fertility -- Testing , Soils -- Nitrogen content , Cyanobacteria -- Biotechnology
- Description: Some cyanobacteria strains have biofertilization and bioconditioning effects in soils. The objective of this study was to identify cyanobacteria with potential to improve the N fertility and structural stability of degraded soils and evaluate their effectiveness in soils of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Isolation and characterization of the indigenous cyanobacteria strains with desirable properties was first to be undertaken because their effects are known to differ from strain to strain. Cyanobacteria strains 3g, 3v, and 7e were identified from 97 strains isolated from selected soils. Nostoc strains 3g and 3v had greater ability to produce exocellular polysaccharides (EPS) but low potential to fix atmospheric N2 (4.7 and 1.3 nmol C2H4 μg chl-1 h-1, respectively). On the other hand, strain 7e had the highest capability to fix atmospheric N2 (16.1 nmol C2H4 μg chl-1 h-1) but had the least ability to produce EPS. Evaluation of the strains was done in glasshouse studies starting with Nostoc strain 9v isolated from a Tanzanian soil, followed by the indigenous strains isolated from soils in Hertzog and Qunu, South Africa. Inoculation was done by uniformly applying cyanobacteria on the surface of potted soils at a rate of 6 g m-2. First harvest and soil sampling took place after six weeks, and the top 25 mm of the soil was mixed, replanted, and sampled again after a further six weeks (second harvest). Inoculation with Nostoc strain 9v increased soil N by 40 percent and 17 percent in Guquka and Hertzog soils, respectively, and consequently increased maize dry matter yields by 40 and 49 percent. Soil C increased by 27 percent and 8 percent in Guquka and Hertzog soils, respectively, and this increase was significantly associated with that of soil N (R2 = 0.838). Higher contents of soil C, soil N and mineral N, however, were found in non-cropped soils. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed coatings of EPS on soil particles and fragments of non-cropped inoculated soils, with iii other particles enmeshed in networks of filaments, in contrast to cropped and/or non-inoculated soils. The proportion of very stable aggregates was increased by inoculation but cropping with maize reduced the aggregate stability. Inoculating Hertzog soil with indigenous strains 3g and 7e increased the nitrate N in the first cropping by 49 percent and 69 percent respectively, in cropped soils. In the second cropping increases in mineral N were 41 percent and 43 percent in 3g and 7e inoculated soils, respectively. Maize dry matter yields were higher on inoculated soils both in the first and second harvest in response to the improved N status of the soil. Increases in aggregate MWD in cropped soil as determined by fast wetting, mechanical breakdown and slow wetting were 85 percent, 33 percent, 33 percent, respectively, for 3g inoculation, 64 percent, 41 percent, and 41 percent, respectively, for 7e inoculation and 60 percent, 24 percent, 50 percent for inoculation with 9v. In non-cropped soil, increases in MWD as determined by fast wetting, mechanical breakdown and slow wetting were 11 percent, 0 percent, 7 percent, respectively for 3g inoculation, 21 percent, 11 percent, and 7 percent, respectively for 7e inoculation, and 25 percent, 36 percent, and 19 percent for strain 9v inoculation. Scanning electron microscopy observations, which were confirmed by chemical results, revealed that inoculated soils had high EPS and filaments that encouraged soil aggregation and improved aggregate stability. Results of this study show that cyanobacteria strains isolated and selected for their ability to fix atmospheric N2 and produce EPS improved the fertility status and aggregate stability of degraded soils from South Africa.
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Cattle production on communal rangelands of South Africa and the potential of acacia karroo in improving Nguni beef production
- Authors: Mapiye, Cletos
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Nguni cattle -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Beef cattle -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Beef cattle breeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Beef cattle -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Grazing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Range management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11161 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1000989 , Nguni cattle -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Beef cattle -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Beef cattle breeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Beef cattle -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Grazing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Range management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mapiye, Cletos
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Nguni cattle -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Beef cattle -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Beef cattle breeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Beef cattle -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Grazing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Range management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11161 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1000989 , Nguni cattle -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Beef cattle -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Beef cattle breeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Beef cattle -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Grazing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Range management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
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Community participation in solid waste management in high-density low-income areas: the case of C-Section in Duncan Village
- Authors: Mazinyo, Sonwabo Perez
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Refuse and refuse disposal -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sewage disposal -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Low-income housing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Conflict management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil (Environmental Studies)
- Identifier: vital:11875 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/261 , Refuse and refuse disposal -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sewage disposal -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Low-income housing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Conflict management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Solid waste management in high density low-income areas is a problem that manifests itself in ubiquitous illegal dumpsites and unhealthy living environmental conditions. Community participation in solid waste management in Duncan Village, C-Section has been found to be part of the solution to this problem. This study investigates community participation in SWM at household level, community waste project level and at informal salvaging/scavenging level. The integration of community participation into existing Buffalo City Municipality waste management plans and the nature of the relationship between the different interest groups are investigated. This study employs qualitative research methods where interviews and participatory observations are used to investigate key objectives. The nature of the relationships between councillors, C-Section residents and the Buffalo City Municipality Departments are tenuous and fraught with conflicts. These conflicts emerge due to the lack of communication as well as due to the non-integration of the community interest groups‟ views and activities into solid waste management in C-Section. The study suggests that this lack of communication should be addressed and that integrated participation of all stakeholders must be encouraged for effective solid waste management in a high density low-income community.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mazinyo, Sonwabo Perez
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Refuse and refuse disposal -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sewage disposal -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Low-income housing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Conflict management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil (Environmental Studies)
- Identifier: vital:11875 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/261 , Refuse and refuse disposal -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sewage disposal -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Low-income housing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Conflict management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Solid waste management in high density low-income areas is a problem that manifests itself in ubiquitous illegal dumpsites and unhealthy living environmental conditions. Community participation in solid waste management in Duncan Village, C-Section has been found to be part of the solution to this problem. This study investigates community participation in SWM at household level, community waste project level and at informal salvaging/scavenging level. The integration of community participation into existing Buffalo City Municipality waste management plans and the nature of the relationship between the different interest groups are investigated. This study employs qualitative research methods where interviews and participatory observations are used to investigate key objectives. The nature of the relationships between councillors, C-Section residents and the Buffalo City Municipality Departments are tenuous and fraught with conflicts. These conflicts emerge due to the lack of communication as well as due to the non-integration of the community interest groups‟ views and activities into solid waste management in C-Section. The study suggests that this lack of communication should be addressed and that integrated participation of all stakeholders must be encouraged for effective solid waste management in a high density low-income community.
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Cultural and linguistic localization of the virtual shop owner interfaces of e commerce platforms for rural development
- Authors: Dyakalashe, Siyabulela
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: User interfaces (Computer systems) , Electronic commerce -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Computer architecture -- Design and construction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Computer Science)
- Identifier: vital:11379 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/276 , User interfaces (Computer systems) , Electronic commerce -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Computer architecture -- Design and construction
- Description: The introduction of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) for rural development in rural marginalized societies is vastly growing. However, the success of developing and deploying ICT related services is still in question as influential factors such as adaptability, scalability, sustainability, and usability have great effect on the rate of growth of ICTs in rural environments. The problem is that these ICT services should be maintained and sustained by the targeted communities. The main cause for rural marginalization is the fact that some communities situated in rural settings are educationally challenged and computer illiterate or semiliterate in comparison with urban communities. An ICT for development (ICT4D) intervention in the form of an e-Commerce platform that targets the social and economic growth of rural marginalized communities has been developed and field tested at Dwesa, a rural community located on the Wild Coast of the former homeland of Transkei in the Eastern Cape Province. The e-Commerce platform is known as “buy at Dwesa” and can be visited at this URL, http://www.dwesa.com. The aim of the e-Commerce platform is to motivate small entrepreneurs in rural areas to market their products and themselves to the global market as they lack the skills and resources for marketing their art and crafts. Virtual stores are created for a small group of entrepreneurs who will maintain and sustain the stores on their own. These entrepreneurs are often elderly women with limited education and little to no computer literacy - meaning that sustaining the stores may prove difficult for them. In this research we discuss the re-design and re-development of the virtual shop-owner interfaces of the e-Commerce platform to make them more culturally and linguistically localized. The virtual shops allow shop-owners to upload their artifacts to advertise and sell on the customer’s end of the e-Commerce platform. For multilingual and multicultural communities, adoption of the software interfaces to the user’s cultural and linguistic needs and modes of expression is important as failure to do so may reduce the level of benefits of e-Commerce initiatives.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Dyakalashe, Siyabulela
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: User interfaces (Computer systems) , Electronic commerce -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Computer architecture -- Design and construction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Computer Science)
- Identifier: vital:11379 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/276 , User interfaces (Computer systems) , Electronic commerce -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Computer architecture -- Design and construction
- Description: The introduction of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) for rural development in rural marginalized societies is vastly growing. However, the success of developing and deploying ICT related services is still in question as influential factors such as adaptability, scalability, sustainability, and usability have great effect on the rate of growth of ICTs in rural environments. The problem is that these ICT services should be maintained and sustained by the targeted communities. The main cause for rural marginalization is the fact that some communities situated in rural settings are educationally challenged and computer illiterate or semiliterate in comparison with urban communities. An ICT for development (ICT4D) intervention in the form of an e-Commerce platform that targets the social and economic growth of rural marginalized communities has been developed and field tested at Dwesa, a rural community located on the Wild Coast of the former homeland of Transkei in the Eastern Cape Province. The e-Commerce platform is known as “buy at Dwesa” and can be visited at this URL, http://www.dwesa.com. The aim of the e-Commerce platform is to motivate small entrepreneurs in rural areas to market their products and themselves to the global market as they lack the skills and resources for marketing their art and crafts. Virtual stores are created for a small group of entrepreneurs who will maintain and sustain the stores on their own. These entrepreneurs are often elderly women with limited education and little to no computer literacy - meaning that sustaining the stores may prove difficult for them. In this research we discuss the re-design and re-development of the virtual shop-owner interfaces of the e-Commerce platform to make them more culturally and linguistically localized. The virtual shops allow shop-owners to upload their artifacts to advertise and sell on the customer’s end of the e-Commerce platform. For multilingual and multicultural communities, adoption of the software interfaces to the user’s cultural and linguistic needs and modes of expression is important as failure to do so may reduce the level of benefits of e-Commerce initiatives.
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Determination and validation of plants used by resource-limited farmers in the ethno veterinary control of gastro-intestinal parasites of goats in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Maphosa, Viola
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Parasites -- Control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Traditional medicine -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Goats -- Parasites -- Control , Traditional veterinary medicine -- South Africa , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11164 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1000997 , Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Parasites -- Control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Traditional medicine -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Goats -- Parasites -- Control , Traditional veterinary medicine -- South Africa , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Full Text:
- Authors: Maphosa, Viola
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Parasites -- Control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Traditional medicine -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Goats -- Parasites -- Control , Traditional veterinary medicine -- South Africa , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11164 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1000997 , Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Parasites -- Control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Traditional medicine -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Goats -- Parasites -- Control , Traditional veterinary medicine -- South Africa , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Full Text:
Economic evaluation of possible loss of Prosopis pods as a result of biological control in the Northern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Nqobizitha, Dube
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Trees -- South Africa , Mimosaceae , Forests and forestry -- South Africa , Forest conservation -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Mimosaceae -- Biological control -- South Africa , Mesquite -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11165 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/394 , Trees -- South Africa , Mimosaceae , Forests and forestry -- South Africa , Forest conservation -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Mimosaceae -- Biological control -- South Africa , Mesquite -- South Africa
- Description: Species of Prosopis (Mimosaceae), or mesquite, are native to the Americas and introduced in South Africa as agro forestry trees to provide wood, fodder and shade in the late 1800s. In the Northern Cape Province, these trees have been particularly used for their pods by local farmers and local industry. However due to Prosopis’ ability to spread rapidly there has been increasing pressure to step up control of the tree. Due to the costs associated with most control methods biological control has been singled out as the most viable control method worth pursuing. This thesis attempts to explain and shed light on the effects that increased biological control of Prosopis would have on the farming community and Prosopis based businesses in the area. Two hypothetical scenarios were used, the first being a possible 50% reduction in available pods and the other a possible 100% reduction. In an effort to explain these effects data was collected from a series of collection activities in the form of a pilot study and two unique questionnaire surveys. Twenty-seven farmers and one Prosopis based business were interviewed at random with the data analysed and documented. Results showed that the business community is the main user of pods incurring crippling losses in the event of a 50% or 100% decrease in available pods. Using control costs from working for water De Aar long term costs of the presence of Prosopis were estimated and compared to the estimated provincial cost of losing pods giving a cost comparison ratio of (α)270 million : Y(N(15.7million)). Only 48% of the respondents valued pods and 11% had traded in pods, the top concern resulting from the invasion was the loss of underground water. With a 50% decline in available pods, all respondents indicated unchanged effects. However empirical results showed that with a 100% decline in pods estimate losses of R 5 818 per farm are expected. The cost comparison ratio showing the losses farmers bore with Prosopis in the area and the losses they would suffer with a 100% decline in pods was R11 389 + (K): R5 818. In light of the empirical results, policy recommendations that support the introduction of more effective biological control agents have been made with areas for further research identified and discussed.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Nqobizitha, Dube
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Trees -- South Africa , Mimosaceae , Forests and forestry -- South Africa , Forest conservation -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Mimosaceae -- Biological control -- South Africa , Mesquite -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11165 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/394 , Trees -- South Africa , Mimosaceae , Forests and forestry -- South Africa , Forest conservation -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Mimosaceae -- Biological control -- South Africa , Mesquite -- South Africa
- Description: Species of Prosopis (Mimosaceae), or mesquite, are native to the Americas and introduced in South Africa as agro forestry trees to provide wood, fodder and shade in the late 1800s. In the Northern Cape Province, these trees have been particularly used for their pods by local farmers and local industry. However due to Prosopis’ ability to spread rapidly there has been increasing pressure to step up control of the tree. Due to the costs associated with most control methods biological control has been singled out as the most viable control method worth pursuing. This thesis attempts to explain and shed light on the effects that increased biological control of Prosopis would have on the farming community and Prosopis based businesses in the area. Two hypothetical scenarios were used, the first being a possible 50% reduction in available pods and the other a possible 100% reduction. In an effort to explain these effects data was collected from a series of collection activities in the form of a pilot study and two unique questionnaire surveys. Twenty-seven farmers and one Prosopis based business were interviewed at random with the data analysed and documented. Results showed that the business community is the main user of pods incurring crippling losses in the event of a 50% or 100% decrease in available pods. Using control costs from working for water De Aar long term costs of the presence of Prosopis were estimated and compared to the estimated provincial cost of losing pods giving a cost comparison ratio of (α)270 million : Y(N(15.7million)). Only 48% of the respondents valued pods and 11% had traded in pods, the top concern resulting from the invasion was the loss of underground water. With a 50% decline in available pods, all respondents indicated unchanged effects. However empirical results showed that with a 100% decline in pods estimate losses of R 5 818 per farm are expected. The cost comparison ratio showing the losses farmers bore with Prosopis in the area and the losses they would suffer with a 100% decline in pods was R11 389 + (K): R5 818. In light of the empirical results, policy recommendations that support the introduction of more effective biological control agents have been made with areas for further research identified and discussed.
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Economics of wetland cultivation in Zimbabwe: case study of Mashonaland East Province
- Authors: Taruvinga, Amon
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Wetland management -- Zimbabwe Case studies , Wetland ecology -- Zimbabwe , Sustainable agriculture -- Zimbabwe , Rural development -- Zimbabwe , Wetland restoration -- Zimbabwe , Nature conservation -- Government policy -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11169 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1001002 , Wetland management -- Zimbabwe Case studies , Wetland ecology -- Zimbabwe , Sustainable agriculture -- Zimbabwe , Rural development -- Zimbabwe , Wetland restoration -- Zimbabwe , Nature conservation -- Government policy -- Zimbabwe
- Description: Wetlands are stocks of natural resources limited in supply, in the middle of unlimited human wants with multiple uses to society, presenting an economic problem in as far as their rational and sustainable use is concerned. To that end, conflicting recommendations have been forwarded regarding wetland cultivation as a possible land use across the globe and from within the same regions. On one extreme, wetland cultivation has been linked to degradation of wetlands with pure wetland conservation as the prescribed viable and sustainable land use option to society. Closer to reality, partial wetland conversion to crop land has been found compatible with wetland bio-diversity; implying that partial wetland cultivation is the prescribed wetland use option viable and sustainable to societies, a dictum mainly claimed by rural communities. With that conflicting background and based on the “Safe Minimum Standard” approach, a ban on wetland cultivation was maintained in several early environmental policies in Zimbabwe as a basis for legislative protection of wetlands, a position that is still legally binding in current statutes. Contrary to that, rural communities have responded by invading wetlands as a coping strategy in pursuit of the claimed values of wetland cultivation, further conflicting with standing policies. This scenario has managed to “lock” and is currently locking the claimed 1,28 million hectares of wetlands in Zimbabwe in a “legal-operational impasse”, at a cost to the entire nation since no meaningful investment is possible in wetlands when there is a legal conflict.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Taruvinga, Amon
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Wetland management -- Zimbabwe Case studies , Wetland ecology -- Zimbabwe , Sustainable agriculture -- Zimbabwe , Rural development -- Zimbabwe , Wetland restoration -- Zimbabwe , Nature conservation -- Government policy -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11169 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1001002 , Wetland management -- Zimbabwe Case studies , Wetland ecology -- Zimbabwe , Sustainable agriculture -- Zimbabwe , Rural development -- Zimbabwe , Wetland restoration -- Zimbabwe , Nature conservation -- Government policy -- Zimbabwe
- Description: Wetlands are stocks of natural resources limited in supply, in the middle of unlimited human wants with multiple uses to society, presenting an economic problem in as far as their rational and sustainable use is concerned. To that end, conflicting recommendations have been forwarded regarding wetland cultivation as a possible land use across the globe and from within the same regions. On one extreme, wetland cultivation has been linked to degradation of wetlands with pure wetland conservation as the prescribed viable and sustainable land use option to society. Closer to reality, partial wetland conversion to crop land has been found compatible with wetland bio-diversity; implying that partial wetland cultivation is the prescribed wetland use option viable and sustainable to societies, a dictum mainly claimed by rural communities. With that conflicting background and based on the “Safe Minimum Standard” approach, a ban on wetland cultivation was maintained in several early environmental policies in Zimbabwe as a basis for legislative protection of wetlands, a position that is still legally binding in current statutes. Contrary to that, rural communities have responded by invading wetlands as a coping strategy in pursuit of the claimed values of wetland cultivation, further conflicting with standing policies. This scenario has managed to “lock” and is currently locking the claimed 1,28 million hectares of wetlands in Zimbabwe in a “legal-operational impasse”, at a cost to the entire nation since no meaningful investment is possible in wetlands when there is a legal conflict.
- Full Text:
Effect of processing on the efficacy and safety of Solanum Aculeastrum Dunal berries
- Authors: Aboyade, Oluwaseyi Mayode
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Plant extracts , Drugs -- Effectiveness , Berries , Solanum , Solanum Aculeastrum -- Effectiveness
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Botany)
- Identifier: vital:11302 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1001051 , Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Plant extracts , Drugs -- Effectiveness , Berries , Solanum , Solanum Aculeastrum -- Effectiveness
- Description: General Abstract There has been a steady increase in the use of medicinal plants in the last two decades in both developed and developing countries for prevention, management and treatment of diseases. This increase has been due to reasons such as ease of access, better cultural acceptability and compatibility, cost effectiveness and also the bid to “go natural”. Unfortunately, the notion that herbal medicines are relatively safe because they are natural has led to serious and potentially fatal consequences in phytotherapy. The lack of rigorous research to prove the effectiveness and safety of many medicinal plants is of great concern to the health care system. This thesis therefore addresses not just the efficacy, but also the safety of the extracts of the berry of Solanum aculeastrum - a medicinal plant used, among other things, for the treatment of breast cancer in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Particular attention was paid to the possible effect of different processing methods of the berry extracts on inflammation, cytotoxicity, and toxicity. In studying the comparative effects of various processing methods, four different preparations of the extracts were investigated. These include fresh, dried, boiled fresh, and boiled dried berries. While the effect of processing on the anti-inflammatory properties of the extracts was not dose dependent, the percentage reduction in inflammation was highly significant and more prominent in both concentrations of the boiled fresh berries than the reference drug, indomethacin. Furthermore, the four extracts varied in their ability to act either centrally or peripherally in their effect on pain. Assessment of the analgesic response using the formalin test showed that, at both concentrations tested, none of the extracts inhibited the first phase of the formalin test. Furthermore, it was observed that boiling had differing results on the activity of the iii fresh and dried extracts. While boiling of the dried berries reduced pain in the rats, the opposite trend was observed with the boiled fresh berries. Results of the influence of processing of the berries on cytotoxicity indicated that the extracts are potent inhibitors of human breast, cervical and colonic carcinoma cells and the non-cancerous cells (both the actively dividing and confluent Chang liver cells). Although, in terms of relative potency, the fresh berries appeared to be the most active of the extracts, processing of the berries caused an increase in apoptotic cells and a subsequent decrease in the necrotic cells. The effect of processing on the safety of the berry of S. aculeastrum on the rats fed for 28 days was also investigated. The various doses (1, 10 and 25 mg/kg body weight) of all the four extracts did not alter the activity and the weight of the animals throughout the period of treatment. A reduction in organ to body weight ratio of the heart, kidney, liver and spleen was observed in all the extracts. Regarding the haematological parameters, different patterns of effect were observed between the extracts and within the treated doses. The observed alterations in the biochemical parameters by the various extract of Solanum aculeastrum berries at all the doses may have consequential effects on the normal functioning of these organs. In conclusion, this study has shown that there is some justification for the traditional use of the berries of Solanum aculeastrum in the treatment of inflammation related ailments and cancer. However, the medicinal use of the plant also poses considerable health risks. Investigation conducted into the plant’s safety revealed that the berry extracts were nephrotoxic, hepatotoxic, haematotoxic and at higher doses, fatal. Another concern with regard to the plant’s safety is the non-selectivity of its extracts in the inhibition of carcinoma, actively dividing and un-dividing cells. Assessment of the effect of the processing on the berry’s efficacy and safety as herbal iv remedy produced mixed results. On the one hand, processing seemed to improve the extract’s anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity, while reducing its cytotoxic potential. On the other hand, a reduction in the toxicity was observed on the processed extracts compared to the fresh ones. This may be an indication that processing has an overall beneficial effect on the medicinal properties of the plant and should thus be considered as a method of making the berries of Solanum aculeastrum safer for use as a herbal remedy.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Aboyade, Oluwaseyi Mayode
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Plant extracts , Drugs -- Effectiveness , Berries , Solanum , Solanum Aculeastrum -- Effectiveness
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Botany)
- Identifier: vital:11302 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1001051 , Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Plant extracts , Drugs -- Effectiveness , Berries , Solanum , Solanum Aculeastrum -- Effectiveness
- Description: General Abstract There has been a steady increase in the use of medicinal plants in the last two decades in both developed and developing countries for prevention, management and treatment of diseases. This increase has been due to reasons such as ease of access, better cultural acceptability and compatibility, cost effectiveness and also the bid to “go natural”. Unfortunately, the notion that herbal medicines are relatively safe because they are natural has led to serious and potentially fatal consequences in phytotherapy. The lack of rigorous research to prove the effectiveness and safety of many medicinal plants is of great concern to the health care system. This thesis therefore addresses not just the efficacy, but also the safety of the extracts of the berry of Solanum aculeastrum - a medicinal plant used, among other things, for the treatment of breast cancer in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Particular attention was paid to the possible effect of different processing methods of the berry extracts on inflammation, cytotoxicity, and toxicity. In studying the comparative effects of various processing methods, four different preparations of the extracts were investigated. These include fresh, dried, boiled fresh, and boiled dried berries. While the effect of processing on the anti-inflammatory properties of the extracts was not dose dependent, the percentage reduction in inflammation was highly significant and more prominent in both concentrations of the boiled fresh berries than the reference drug, indomethacin. Furthermore, the four extracts varied in their ability to act either centrally or peripherally in their effect on pain. Assessment of the analgesic response using the formalin test showed that, at both concentrations tested, none of the extracts inhibited the first phase of the formalin test. Furthermore, it was observed that boiling had differing results on the activity of the iii fresh and dried extracts. While boiling of the dried berries reduced pain in the rats, the opposite trend was observed with the boiled fresh berries. Results of the influence of processing of the berries on cytotoxicity indicated that the extracts are potent inhibitors of human breast, cervical and colonic carcinoma cells and the non-cancerous cells (both the actively dividing and confluent Chang liver cells). Although, in terms of relative potency, the fresh berries appeared to be the most active of the extracts, processing of the berries caused an increase in apoptotic cells and a subsequent decrease in the necrotic cells. The effect of processing on the safety of the berry of S. aculeastrum on the rats fed for 28 days was also investigated. The various doses (1, 10 and 25 mg/kg body weight) of all the four extracts did not alter the activity and the weight of the animals throughout the period of treatment. A reduction in organ to body weight ratio of the heart, kidney, liver and spleen was observed in all the extracts. Regarding the haematological parameters, different patterns of effect were observed between the extracts and within the treated doses. The observed alterations in the biochemical parameters by the various extract of Solanum aculeastrum berries at all the doses may have consequential effects on the normal functioning of these organs. In conclusion, this study has shown that there is some justification for the traditional use of the berries of Solanum aculeastrum in the treatment of inflammation related ailments and cancer. However, the medicinal use of the plant also poses considerable health risks. Investigation conducted into the plant’s safety revealed that the berry extracts were nephrotoxic, hepatotoxic, haematotoxic and at higher doses, fatal. Another concern with regard to the plant’s safety is the non-selectivity of its extracts in the inhibition of carcinoma, actively dividing and un-dividing cells. Assessment of the effect of the processing on the berry’s efficacy and safety as herbal iv remedy produced mixed results. On the one hand, processing seemed to improve the extract’s anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity, while reducing its cytotoxic potential. On the other hand, a reduction in the toxicity was observed on the processed extracts compared to the fresh ones. This may be an indication that processing has an overall beneficial effect on the medicinal properties of the plant and should thus be considered as a method of making the berries of Solanum aculeastrum safer for use as a herbal remedy.
- Full Text:
Evaluation of the effect of Pelargonium reniforme Curtis extract on alcohol induced liver damage in Nkonkobe Municipality Eastern Cape Province South Africa
- Authors: Adewusi, Emmanuel Adekanmi
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Plants -- Therapeutic use , Alcoholism -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Hepatolenticular degeneration , Pelargoniums , Plant extracts , Plant bioassay , Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Ethnobotany)
- Identifier: vital:11883 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/263 , Plants -- Therapeutic use , Alcoholism -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Hepatolenticular degeneration , Pelargoniums , Plant extracts , Plant bioassay , Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Alcohol abuse is a very common practice (just like in many other parts of the world) in Nkonkobe Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. This is associated with liver disease. An ethnobotanical survey of plants used for the treatment of alcohol-induced liver damage in Nkonkobe Municipality was conducted. During the survey and also from information gathered in the literature, Pelargonium reniforme Curtis, was prominently mentioned, among other plants, as the species used generally for the treatment of alcohol-induced liver damage. This project was designed to evaluate the effects of the plant on alcohol-induced liver damage, including its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. It also involves safety evaluation studies to determine if the plant is safe for consumption. Studies using rats of the Wistar strain were carried out to determine the protective and curative effects of P. reniforme on alcohol-induced liver damage. Results obtained showed that the plant extract can protect the liver cells as well as enhance recovery from tissue damage. The plant also showed good antimicrobial and antioxidant activity and this further validates its use in the treatment of liver diseases. Safety evaluation studies of the extract were carried out by investigating the effects of the oral administration on some haematological and biochemical parameters in male Wistar rats. The results obtained from the study suggest that the plant extract is not toxic at the doses used and is therefore safe for medicinal uses. The results of the various bioassays carried out in this project have justified the traditional uses of P. reniforme for the treatment of alcohol-induced liver damage.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Adewusi, Emmanuel Adekanmi
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Plants -- Therapeutic use , Alcoholism -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Hepatolenticular degeneration , Pelargoniums , Plant extracts , Plant bioassay , Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Ethnobotany)
- Identifier: vital:11883 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/263 , Plants -- Therapeutic use , Alcoholism -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Hepatolenticular degeneration , Pelargoniums , Plant extracts , Plant bioassay , Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Alcohol abuse is a very common practice (just like in many other parts of the world) in Nkonkobe Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. This is associated with liver disease. An ethnobotanical survey of plants used for the treatment of alcohol-induced liver damage in Nkonkobe Municipality was conducted. During the survey and also from information gathered in the literature, Pelargonium reniforme Curtis, was prominently mentioned, among other plants, as the species used generally for the treatment of alcohol-induced liver damage. This project was designed to evaluate the effects of the plant on alcohol-induced liver damage, including its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. It also involves safety evaluation studies to determine if the plant is safe for consumption. Studies using rats of the Wistar strain were carried out to determine the protective and curative effects of P. reniforme on alcohol-induced liver damage. Results obtained showed that the plant extract can protect the liver cells as well as enhance recovery from tissue damage. The plant also showed good antimicrobial and antioxidant activity and this further validates its use in the treatment of liver diseases. Safety evaluation studies of the extract were carried out by investigating the effects of the oral administration on some haematological and biochemical parameters in male Wistar rats. The results obtained from the study suggest that the plant extract is not toxic at the doses used and is therefore safe for medicinal uses. The results of the various bioassays carried out in this project have justified the traditional uses of P. reniforme for the treatment of alcohol-induced liver damage.
- Full Text:
Evolutionary development and functional role of plant natriuretic peptide (PNP)-B
- Authors: Hove, Runyararo Memory
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Plant hormones , Peptides , Plant gene expression , Peptide hormones , Peptides -- Separation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Biochemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11251 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/155 , Plant hormones , Peptides , Plant gene expression , Peptide hormones , Peptides -- Separation
- Description: Plant natriuretic peptides (PNP) are novel peptides which, like in vertebrates, have been shown to have a function associated with water and salt homeostasis. Two PNP-encoding genes have been identified and isolated from Arabidopsis thaliana, namely; AtPNP-A and AtPNP-B. In this study, the focus was on PNP-B, which has not been extensively studied. Bioinformatic analysis was done on the AtPNP-B gene. This included the bioinformatic study of its primary structure, secondary structure, tertiary structure, transcription factor binding sites (TFBS) and its relation to other known proteins. The AtPNP-B gene was shown to be a 510 bp long, including a predicted 138 bp intron. AtPNP-B was also shown to have some sequence similarity with AtPNP-A and CjBAp12. The TFBS for AtPNP-B and OsJPNP-B were compared and they comprised of TFBS that are related to water homeostasis and pathogenesis. This suggested two possible functions; water stress and homeostasis and a pathogenesis related function for PNP-B. Following bioinformatic analysis, the heterologous expression of the AtPNP-B was attempted to investigate whether the AtPNP-B gene encoded a functional protein and to determine the functional role of PNP-B. However, expression was unsuccessful. An evolutionary study was then carried out which revealed that there were some plants without the intron such as, rice, leafy spurge, oilseed rape, onion, poplar, sugar cane, sunflower and tobacco. These plants would therefore be used for expression and functional studies in the future. The evolutionary studies also revealed that PNP-B had a relationship with expansins and the endoglucanase family 45. Other PNP-B related molecules were also obtained from other plant genomes and therefore used in the construction of a phylogenetic tree. The phylogenetic tree revealed that AtPNP-B clustered in the same group as CjBAp12 while AtPNP-A had its own cluster group. There were also other PNP-B like molecules that clustered in the same group as expansins (α- and β-). Thus, we postulate that, like PNP-A, PNP-B also has a possible function in water and salt homeostasis. However, due to the clustering iii of AtPNP-B into the same group as CjBAp12, a possible role of PNP-B in pathogenesis-related response is also postulated.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Hove, Runyararo Memory
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Plant hormones , Peptides , Plant gene expression , Peptide hormones , Peptides -- Separation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Biochemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11251 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/155 , Plant hormones , Peptides , Plant gene expression , Peptide hormones , Peptides -- Separation
- Description: Plant natriuretic peptides (PNP) are novel peptides which, like in vertebrates, have been shown to have a function associated with water and salt homeostasis. Two PNP-encoding genes have been identified and isolated from Arabidopsis thaliana, namely; AtPNP-A and AtPNP-B. In this study, the focus was on PNP-B, which has not been extensively studied. Bioinformatic analysis was done on the AtPNP-B gene. This included the bioinformatic study of its primary structure, secondary structure, tertiary structure, transcription factor binding sites (TFBS) and its relation to other known proteins. The AtPNP-B gene was shown to be a 510 bp long, including a predicted 138 bp intron. AtPNP-B was also shown to have some sequence similarity with AtPNP-A and CjBAp12. The TFBS for AtPNP-B and OsJPNP-B were compared and they comprised of TFBS that are related to water homeostasis and pathogenesis. This suggested two possible functions; water stress and homeostasis and a pathogenesis related function for PNP-B. Following bioinformatic analysis, the heterologous expression of the AtPNP-B was attempted to investigate whether the AtPNP-B gene encoded a functional protein and to determine the functional role of PNP-B. However, expression was unsuccessful. An evolutionary study was then carried out which revealed that there were some plants without the intron such as, rice, leafy spurge, oilseed rape, onion, poplar, sugar cane, sunflower and tobacco. These plants would therefore be used for expression and functional studies in the future. The evolutionary studies also revealed that PNP-B had a relationship with expansins and the endoglucanase family 45. Other PNP-B related molecules were also obtained from other plant genomes and therefore used in the construction of a phylogenetic tree. The phylogenetic tree revealed that AtPNP-B clustered in the same group as CjBAp12 while AtPNP-A had its own cluster group. There were also other PNP-B like molecules that clustered in the same group as expansins (α- and β-). Thus, we postulate that, like PNP-A, PNP-B also has a possible function in water and salt homeostasis. However, due to the clustering iii of AtPNP-B into the same group as CjBAp12, a possible role of PNP-B in pathogenesis-related response is also postulated.
- Full Text:
Feeding behaviour of Xhosa lop-eared, Nguni and Nguni x Boer goat genotypes kept on rangelands of the false thornveld
- Authors: Bakare, Archibold Garikayi
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Goats -- Feeding and feeds , Goats -- South Africa , Rangelands -- South Africa , Grazing -- South Africa , Veld
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11811 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/396 , Goats -- Feeding and feeds , Goats -- South Africa , Rangelands -- South Africa , Grazing -- South Africa , Veld
- Description: Feeding behaviour of Xhosa lop-eared, Nguni and Nguni × Boer goat genotypes kept on rangelands of the False Thornveld By Archibold Garikayi Bakare The study was conducted at the University of Fort Hare farm to assess the feeding behaviour of three goat genotypes: Xhosa lop-eared (XLE), Nguni (NGN) and Nguni × Boer crossbred (NBC) genotypes. The time spent on different activities (grazing, browsing and other activities) on rangelands was recorded using stop watches. The micro-histological faecal analysis technique was used to identify and quantify the plant species that were consumed by the goats across the four seasons. Time spent browsing was high in post-rainy season for XLE (55.94 %) compared to NGN (52.97 %) and crossbred NBC (45.95 %) goats. The high browsing activity was also noted for XLE in hot-wet and cool-dry season (P < 0.05). The NBC goats on the other hand; devoted most of their time grazing compared to XLE and NGN goats across seasons (P < 0.05). Generally, time of day had no effect (P > 0.05) on foraging activities among the goat breeds. Grewia occidentalis, Panicum maximum and Diospyros lycioides were the most preferred plant species by all genotypes across seasons in the paddock. It was concluded that crossbreds spent more time grazing as compared to XLE, which are more of browsers. It could, therefore, be recommended that XLE complement with grazers (cattle and sheep) for efficient management of feed resources in rangelands.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Bakare, Archibold Garikayi
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Goats -- Feeding and feeds , Goats -- South Africa , Rangelands -- South Africa , Grazing -- South Africa , Veld
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11811 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/396 , Goats -- Feeding and feeds , Goats -- South Africa , Rangelands -- South Africa , Grazing -- South Africa , Veld
- Description: Feeding behaviour of Xhosa lop-eared, Nguni and Nguni × Boer goat genotypes kept on rangelands of the False Thornveld By Archibold Garikayi Bakare The study was conducted at the University of Fort Hare farm to assess the feeding behaviour of three goat genotypes: Xhosa lop-eared (XLE), Nguni (NGN) and Nguni × Boer crossbred (NBC) genotypes. The time spent on different activities (grazing, browsing and other activities) on rangelands was recorded using stop watches. The micro-histological faecal analysis technique was used to identify and quantify the plant species that were consumed by the goats across the four seasons. Time spent browsing was high in post-rainy season for XLE (55.94 %) compared to NGN (52.97 %) and crossbred NBC (45.95 %) goats. The high browsing activity was also noted for XLE in hot-wet and cool-dry season (P < 0.05). The NBC goats on the other hand; devoted most of their time grazing compared to XLE and NGN goats across seasons (P < 0.05). Generally, time of day had no effect (P > 0.05) on foraging activities among the goat breeds. Grewia occidentalis, Panicum maximum and Diospyros lycioides were the most preferred plant species by all genotypes across seasons in the paddock. It was concluded that crossbreds spent more time grazing as compared to XLE, which are more of browsers. It could, therefore, be recommended that XLE complement with grazers (cattle and sheep) for efficient management of feed resources in rangelands.
- Full Text:
Implementation of a 150kva biomass gasifier system for community economic empowerment in South Africa
- Mamphweli, Ntshengedzeni Sampson
- Authors: Mamphweli, Ntshengedzeni Sampson
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Rural development -- South Africa , Electric power distribution -- South Africa , Condensation , Rural electrification -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Physics)
- Identifier: vital:11591 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/262 , Rural development -- South Africa , Electric power distribution -- South Africa , Condensation , Rural electrification -- South Africa
- Description: There is growing interest in research and development activities on biomass gasification technologies as an alternative to fossil fuels technologies. However not much has been done in terms of technology transfer, particularly in under-developed and developing countries such as South Africa. This is mainly because of the lack of resources such as funding. Most parts of the under-developed and developing countries fall within rural areas and semi-urban centers, which are endowed with biomass resources. South Africa has a number of sawmill operators who generate tons of biomass waste during processing of timber; the large proportion of this is burned in furnaces as a means for waste management while a very small proportion is collected and used by people in rural areas for cooking their food. The majority of people in rural areas of South Africa are either unemployed or cannot afford the current energy services. The main aim of this research was to establish the viability of electricity generation for community economic development through biomass gasification, specifically using the locally designed System Johansson Biomass Gasifier™ (SJBG), and to establish the efficiency of the gasifier and associated components with a view of developing strategies to enhance it. The study established the technical and economic feasibility of using the SJBG to generate low-cost electricity for community empowerment. The study also developed strategies to improve the particle collection efficiency of the cyclone. In addition to this, a low-cost gas and temperature monitoring system capable of monitoring gas and temperature at various points of the gasifier was developed. The system was built from three Non- Dispersive Infrared gas sensors, one Palladium/Nickel gas sensor and four type K thermocouples. The study also investigated the impact of fuel compartment condensates on gasifier conversion efficiency. This is an area that has not yet been well researched since much has been done on energy recovery using combined heat and power applications that do not utilize the energy in condensates because these are produced in the gasifier and drained with chemical energy stored in them. The study established that the condensates do not have a significant impact on efficiency.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mamphweli, Ntshengedzeni Sampson
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Rural development -- South Africa , Electric power distribution -- South Africa , Condensation , Rural electrification -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Physics)
- Identifier: vital:11591 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/262 , Rural development -- South Africa , Electric power distribution -- South Africa , Condensation , Rural electrification -- South Africa
- Description: There is growing interest in research and development activities on biomass gasification technologies as an alternative to fossil fuels technologies. However not much has been done in terms of technology transfer, particularly in under-developed and developing countries such as South Africa. This is mainly because of the lack of resources such as funding. Most parts of the under-developed and developing countries fall within rural areas and semi-urban centers, which are endowed with biomass resources. South Africa has a number of sawmill operators who generate tons of biomass waste during processing of timber; the large proportion of this is burned in furnaces as a means for waste management while a very small proportion is collected and used by people in rural areas for cooking their food. The majority of people in rural areas of South Africa are either unemployed or cannot afford the current energy services. The main aim of this research was to establish the viability of electricity generation for community economic development through biomass gasification, specifically using the locally designed System Johansson Biomass Gasifier™ (SJBG), and to establish the efficiency of the gasifier and associated components with a view of developing strategies to enhance it. The study established the technical and economic feasibility of using the SJBG to generate low-cost electricity for community empowerment. The study also developed strategies to improve the particle collection efficiency of the cyclone. In addition to this, a low-cost gas and temperature monitoring system capable of monitoring gas and temperature at various points of the gasifier was developed. The system was built from three Non- Dispersive Infrared gas sensors, one Palladium/Nickel gas sensor and four type K thermocouples. The study also investigated the impact of fuel compartment condensates on gasifier conversion efficiency. This is an area that has not yet been well researched since much has been done on energy recovery using combined heat and power applications that do not utilize the energy in condensates because these are produced in the gasifier and drained with chemical energy stored in them. The study established that the condensates do not have a significant impact on efficiency.
- Full Text:
Implementation of a rewards based negotiation module for an e commerce platform
- Authors: Jere, Nobert Rangarirai
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Computer network architecture -- South Africa -- Design and construction , Internet in public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Electronic commerce -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Computer Science)
- Identifier: vital:11378 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/267 , Computer network architecture -- South Africa -- Design and construction , Internet in public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Electronic commerce -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) have been widely deployed in developmental programs and this has lead to the creation of a new field – ICT for Development (ICT4D). Within the context of ICT4D, various e-services are being developed, including e-Commerce, e-Government, e-Health and e-Judiciary. ICT4D projects allow Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in rural areas to increase sales and gain a market share in the global market. However, many of these ICT4D projects do not succeed, because they fail to bring enough financial value to SMMEs due to the form they currently have. An obvious example is e-Commerce, which should be a source of revenue for business organizations, but most often is not. This thesis presents the design and implementation of a rewarding and negotiation application for a shopping portal to improve the marketing of products for rural entrepreneurs. The shopping portal has been set up for the Dwesa community, a marginalized area in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The proposed system, called the Dwesa Rewarding Program (DRP) enables customers buying online to get points for some of the activities carried out on the shopping portal. It also allows customers to negotiate and make offers whilst purchasing and get rewarded for buying online. The novelty of the system is in its flexibility and adaptability. One achievement of this system is the establishment of negotiation rules which allows fairness in rewarding customers. This should in turn lead to increased sales on the e-Commerce platform in marginalized areas and subsequently increased effectiveness of ICT4D for socio-economic development
- Full Text:
- Authors: Jere, Nobert Rangarirai
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Computer network architecture -- South Africa -- Design and construction , Internet in public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Electronic commerce -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Computer Science)
- Identifier: vital:11378 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/267 , Computer network architecture -- South Africa -- Design and construction , Internet in public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Electronic commerce -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) have been widely deployed in developmental programs and this has lead to the creation of a new field – ICT for Development (ICT4D). Within the context of ICT4D, various e-services are being developed, including e-Commerce, e-Government, e-Health and e-Judiciary. ICT4D projects allow Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in rural areas to increase sales and gain a market share in the global market. However, many of these ICT4D projects do not succeed, because they fail to bring enough financial value to SMMEs due to the form they currently have. An obvious example is e-Commerce, which should be a source of revenue for business organizations, but most often is not. This thesis presents the design and implementation of a rewarding and negotiation application for a shopping portal to improve the marketing of products for rural entrepreneurs. The shopping portal has been set up for the Dwesa community, a marginalized area in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The proposed system, called the Dwesa Rewarding Program (DRP) enables customers buying online to get points for some of the activities carried out on the shopping portal. It also allows customers to negotiate and make offers whilst purchasing and get rewarded for buying online. The novelty of the system is in its flexibility and adaptability. One achievement of this system is the establishment of negotiation rules which allows fairness in rewarding customers. This should in turn lead to increased sales on the e-Commerce platform in marginalized areas and subsequently increased effectiveness of ICT4D for socio-economic development
- Full Text:
Implementing an integrated e-government functionality for a marginalized community in the Eastern Cape South Africa
- Authors: Jakachira, Bobby Tichaona
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Internet in public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Computer Science)
- Identifier: vital:11377 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/273 , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Internet in public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Traditional methods of providing public services to disadvantaged rural communities in South Africa have, over the years, proven to be inefficient and in most such communities, simply non-existent. Although the South African government has taken initiatives to make these public services cheaply and conveniently available online at national level, access at local municipal level is still lacking. The goal of this study is to develop a cost-effective e-government system that will contribute to improved provision of public services to the Dwesa area, a rural community in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa, by the government. A prototype construction approach was used, to develop a cost-effective four-modular web application. Interviews were conducted in the field, resulting in four e-government system modules, based on open-source software, developed and integrated to form a single, dynamic web component that will act as a one-stop shop for Dwesa community members. These are the Dwesa Online Application Centre (DOAC) to apply for important government documents and grants, the Dwesa Online Reporting Centre (DORC) to report various grievances to the responsible agencies, the Dwesa Forum Corner (DFC), a digital community, and the management back-end module. The Dwesa e-government portal was developed using Linux-Apache-MySQL-PHP (LAMP) technology, a Zoop framework to model the individual components and a JQUERY JavaScript library to increase the responsiveness of the user interfaces. The most significant contributions of this thesis have been the development of a cost-effective, integrated e-government functionality, applicable to disadvantaged communities, and the greater understanding this has given of the tools and methodologies that can be used to deliver public services efficiently to citizens. The final evaluation of this e-government system gives significant evidence that the e-government portal provides a solid foundation that will allow e-government implementation to raise the provision of public services to a higher level.
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- Authors: Jakachira, Bobby Tichaona
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Internet in public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Computer Science)
- Identifier: vital:11377 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/273 , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Internet in public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Traditional methods of providing public services to disadvantaged rural communities in South Africa have, over the years, proven to be inefficient and in most such communities, simply non-existent. Although the South African government has taken initiatives to make these public services cheaply and conveniently available online at national level, access at local municipal level is still lacking. The goal of this study is to develop a cost-effective e-government system that will contribute to improved provision of public services to the Dwesa area, a rural community in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa, by the government. A prototype construction approach was used, to develop a cost-effective four-modular web application. Interviews were conducted in the field, resulting in four e-government system modules, based on open-source software, developed and integrated to form a single, dynamic web component that will act as a one-stop shop for Dwesa community members. These are the Dwesa Online Application Centre (DOAC) to apply for important government documents and grants, the Dwesa Online Reporting Centre (DORC) to report various grievances to the responsible agencies, the Dwesa Forum Corner (DFC), a digital community, and the management back-end module. The Dwesa e-government portal was developed using Linux-Apache-MySQL-PHP (LAMP) technology, a Zoop framework to model the individual components and a JQUERY JavaScript library to increase the responsiveness of the user interfaces. The most significant contributions of this thesis have been the development of a cost-effective, integrated e-government functionality, applicable to disadvantaged communities, and the greater understanding this has given of the tools and methodologies that can be used to deliver public services efficiently to citizens. The final evaluation of this e-government system gives significant evidence that the e-government portal provides a solid foundation that will allow e-government implementation to raise the provision of public services to a higher level.
- Full Text: