Effects of absorptive capacity and knowledge management on innovation capabilities in small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs)
- Authors: Gwena, Courage
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Absorptive capacity (Economics) , Knowledge management , Small business
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Business Management
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11839 , vital:39111
- Description: Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) are increasingly becoming an influential factor behind economic growth. On the other hand, knowledge management is credited with being critical to the success of modern business enterprises. Consequently, researchers have a growing interest in understanding knowledge management and its effects on various phenomena within an enterprise. Although SMMEs are tipped to be major providers of employment, innovations and economic growth, it is important that they be investigated in light of factors that influence their sustainability and growth. Notably there is evident lack of research exploring the relationship among absorptive capacity, knowledge management and innovation capabilities from a South African perspective as many of the related studies are concentrated in the developed world. The purpose of the study was to investigate the effects of knowledge management on innovation capabilities in SMMEs with focus on the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. South African SMMEs are experiencing worrying failure rates, whilst on the other hand; knowledge management is credited with organisational success. This trend has presented an opportunity to test how knowledge management affects South African SMMEs innovation capabilities. Above this, the increasing value being attached to SMMEs in solving problems, such as unemployment and trade imbalance have attracted interest as a subject of research. A quantitative research approach was followed in carrying out this study. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed to answer the research questions of the study. The respondents (n=280) were SMMEs representatives for SMMEs operating in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. Findings of the study revealed that absorptive capacity exerts positive a effect on the innovative capabilities of SMMEs the same way knowledge acquisition and knowledge sharing were found to have positive statistically significant on the innovation capabilities of SMMEs. The findings also show that knowledge sharing and knowledge acquisition exerts a positive effect on SMMEs innovative capabilities. Findings from the study could assist various practitioners directly or indirectly involved in business development to develop strategies that improve SMMEs growth and sustainability. These practitioners include strategic management researchers, policy makers, SMME owners, managers, and lecturers.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Gwena, Courage
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Absorptive capacity (Economics) , Knowledge management , Small business
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Business Management
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11839 , vital:39111
- Description: Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) are increasingly becoming an influential factor behind economic growth. On the other hand, knowledge management is credited with being critical to the success of modern business enterprises. Consequently, researchers have a growing interest in understanding knowledge management and its effects on various phenomena within an enterprise. Although SMMEs are tipped to be major providers of employment, innovations and economic growth, it is important that they be investigated in light of factors that influence their sustainability and growth. Notably there is evident lack of research exploring the relationship among absorptive capacity, knowledge management and innovation capabilities from a South African perspective as many of the related studies are concentrated in the developed world. The purpose of the study was to investigate the effects of knowledge management on innovation capabilities in SMMEs with focus on the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. South African SMMEs are experiencing worrying failure rates, whilst on the other hand; knowledge management is credited with organisational success. This trend has presented an opportunity to test how knowledge management affects South African SMMEs innovation capabilities. Above this, the increasing value being attached to SMMEs in solving problems, such as unemployment and trade imbalance have attracted interest as a subject of research. A quantitative research approach was followed in carrying out this study. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed to answer the research questions of the study. The respondents (n=280) were SMMEs representatives for SMMEs operating in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. Findings of the study revealed that absorptive capacity exerts positive a effect on the innovative capabilities of SMMEs the same way knowledge acquisition and knowledge sharing were found to have positive statistically significant on the innovation capabilities of SMMEs. The findings also show that knowledge sharing and knowledge acquisition exerts a positive effect on SMMEs innovative capabilities. Findings from the study could assist various practitioners directly or indirectly involved in business development to develop strategies that improve SMMEs growth and sustainability. These practitioners include strategic management researchers, policy makers, SMME owners, managers, and lecturers.
- Full Text:
Effects of community based organization programmes on poverty eradication : a case study of Dutywa in Mbhashe municipality, Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Maqubela, Zodwa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Community organization Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M. Soc. Sci.
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9610 , vital:34803
- Description: The study set out to establish the effects of CBO’s programmes on poverty eradication in Dutywa Mbhashe Local Municipality, Eastern Cape Province. Poverty is rife in rural areas of Dutywa and community. Community members suffer from both absolute to relative poverty. Community organizations, especially in developing countries, have strengthened the view that these bottom-up organizations are more effective in addressing local needs than larger charitable organizations. This study was done through the reviewing of the implementation of early childhood development programmes, family preservation programmes, victim Empowerment programmes, home community based care programmes (HIV/AIDS), as well as care and support to older person’s programmes by community based organizations with the aim of alleviating poverty. The selection of the district and CBOs was done purposively and data was gathered through focus group discussions, structured and unstructured interviews. Purposive sampling technique was also used in selecting participants who took part in the study. Data analysis was carried out through charts, frequency tables and percentages. Qualitative analysis was carried out through establishing the emerging themes and comparing responses in order to check the validity of the data collected. Quantitative analysis was done through the application of the Statistical Package for Social Science (S.P.S.S). Two objectives were quantitatively analysed and two objectives were qualitatively analysed. The findings revealed that the programmes rendered by the CBOs were effective in the fight against poverty in Mbhashe, Dutywa and it was recommended that there should be an effective monitoring and evaluation of community development programmes and identification of sources of support most especially local sources. It was also recommended that community programme should be aligned with the community cultures.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Maqubela, Zodwa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Community organization Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M. Soc. Sci.
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9610 , vital:34803
- Description: The study set out to establish the effects of CBO’s programmes on poverty eradication in Dutywa Mbhashe Local Municipality, Eastern Cape Province. Poverty is rife in rural areas of Dutywa and community. Community members suffer from both absolute to relative poverty. Community organizations, especially in developing countries, have strengthened the view that these bottom-up organizations are more effective in addressing local needs than larger charitable organizations. This study was done through the reviewing of the implementation of early childhood development programmes, family preservation programmes, victim Empowerment programmes, home community based care programmes (HIV/AIDS), as well as care and support to older person’s programmes by community based organizations with the aim of alleviating poverty. The selection of the district and CBOs was done purposively and data was gathered through focus group discussions, structured and unstructured interviews. Purposive sampling technique was also used in selecting participants who took part in the study. Data analysis was carried out through charts, frequency tables and percentages. Qualitative analysis was carried out through establishing the emerging themes and comparing responses in order to check the validity of the data collected. Quantitative analysis was done through the application of the Statistical Package for Social Science (S.P.S.S). Two objectives were quantitatively analysed and two objectives were qualitatively analysed. The findings revealed that the programmes rendered by the CBOs were effective in the fight against poverty in Mbhashe, Dutywa and it was recommended that there should be an effective monitoring and evaluation of community development programmes and identification of sources of support most especially local sources. It was also recommended that community programme should be aligned with the community cultures.
- Full Text:
Effects of production systems and canola meal supplementation on carcass and meat quality characteristics of spent laying hens
- Authors: Semwogerere, Farouk
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Broilers (Chickens) -- Feeding and feeds Chickens -- Feeding and feeds Chicken industry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9242 , vital:34309
- Description: This study evaluated the carcass and meat quality traits of spent laying hens as influenced by production systems (conventional cages and free range) and the inclusion/exclusion of canola meal in their diets. A total of 30 free range and 60 battery cage reared Lohmann Brown-Elite spent laying hens were obtained from a commercial egg producer. The 30 free range hens (53 weeks of age) and 30 of the caged hens (40 weeks of age) were fed a conventional diet, while the remaining 30 caged hens (48 weeks of age) were fed a diet supplemented with canola meal (20 percent). Carcass, portion and organ weights were determined. Physical attributes and proximate composition were analyzed for, with additional fatty acids and sensory profiles being determined for the effects of canola meal inclusion in the diet. Caged hens had heavier (P ≤ 0.05) warm and cold carcasses, thigh, wing and feet compared to free range hens. The percentages of the breast (26.1 ± 0.51 vs. 28.3 ± 0.28), drum, breast bones, breast thaw and cooking losses and thigh cooking loss were lower (P ≤ 0.05) for caged hens than for free range hens. Free range hens had heavier (P ≤ 0.05) gizzards (33.9 ± 1.04 vs. 30.5 ± 0.73) and bones and a lower (P ≤ 0.05) breast meat percentage (47.3 ± 0.94 vs. 51.7 ± 1.35). Meat redness (a*) (0.54 ± 0.222 vs. 1.40 ± 0.135) and hue angle value, skin redness (a*), breast and thigh, Warner-Bratzler shear force (WBSF) values (breast: 12.37 ± 0.411 vs. 17.10 ± 0.751, thigh: 29.68 ± 0.306 vs. 39.75 ± 0.826), breast moisture and thigh ash content were lower (P ≤ 0.05) for caged hens than free range hens. Caged hens had higher (P ≤ 0.05) thigh thaw loss and breast ash content than free range hens. Canola-fed hens had higher (P ≤ 0.05) drum percentages, breast bone weights and percentages, with lower (P ≤ 0.05) thigh and breast meat percentages. Canola-fed hens had lower (P ≤ 0.05) thaw losses, skin yellowness (b*) and Chroma values, breast fat content with higher cooking losses, skin redness (a*) and hue angle value, as well as breast WBSF (12.37 ± 0.411 vs. 15.43 ± 0.600). Palmitic acid, stearic acid, heneicosanoic acid acid, palmitoleic acid, saturated fatty acids (SFA) (34.0 ± 0.56 vs. 38.7 ± 0.71), n-6:n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) ratio (5.5 ± 0.13 vs. 7.2 ± 0.28), atherogenic index (IA), thrombogenic index (IT), delta-5 desaturase (D5D, elongase index and thiosterase index were lower (P ≤ 0.05) for canola-fed hen breast meat. Breast meat from conventionally fed hens had lower (P ≤ 0.05) myristic acid, lignoceric acid, nervonic acid, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), PUFA:SFA ratio (0.7 ± 0.05 vs. 0.9 ± 0.02), n-3 PUFA (3.4 ± 0.31 vs. 5.1 ± 0.17), hypocholesterolemic:Hypercholesterolaemic (h/H), stearoyl-CoA desaturase 16 (SCD16) and stearoyl-CoA desaturase 18 (SCD18). The breast meat from conventionally fed hens had lower (P ≤ 0.05) metallic flavor than that from canola-fed hens. Strong positive correlations were observed for overall aroma with chicken (r = 0.965, P < 0.001) and brothy aroma (r = 0.827, P < 0.001); overall aroma with overall flavor (r = 0.680, P < 0.001), chicken flavor (r = 0.668, P < 0.001) and brothy flavor (r = 0.548, P = 0.006); initial juiciness with sustained juiciness (r = 0.771, P < 0.001) and tenderness (r = 0.537, P = 0.007); sustained juiciness with tenderness (r = 0.790, P < 0.001) and chewiness with residue (r = 0.783, P < 0.001). Whilst strong negative correlations were observed for: sustained juiciness with chewiness (r = -0.655, P = 0.001) and residue (r = 0.783, P < 0.001) and for tenderness with chewiness (r = 0.845, P < 0.001) and residue (r = -0.855, P < 0.001). Results of this study highlight that a free range production system when compared to a conventional cage system increased undesirable carcass and physical meat traits of spent laying hens. On the other hand, canola meal inclusion incorporates beneficial health aspects without affecting the sensory profile of meat derived from spent laying hens, both groups of hens being reared in battery cage system. Spent laying hen breasts can be consumed as a functional food (especially canolafed) since the fat content and composition was observed to be close to that which is recommended for a healthy diet.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Semwogerere, Farouk
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Broilers (Chickens) -- Feeding and feeds Chickens -- Feeding and feeds Chicken industry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9242 , vital:34309
- Description: This study evaluated the carcass and meat quality traits of spent laying hens as influenced by production systems (conventional cages and free range) and the inclusion/exclusion of canola meal in their diets. A total of 30 free range and 60 battery cage reared Lohmann Brown-Elite spent laying hens were obtained from a commercial egg producer. The 30 free range hens (53 weeks of age) and 30 of the caged hens (40 weeks of age) were fed a conventional diet, while the remaining 30 caged hens (48 weeks of age) were fed a diet supplemented with canola meal (20 percent). Carcass, portion and organ weights were determined. Physical attributes and proximate composition were analyzed for, with additional fatty acids and sensory profiles being determined for the effects of canola meal inclusion in the diet. Caged hens had heavier (P ≤ 0.05) warm and cold carcasses, thigh, wing and feet compared to free range hens. The percentages of the breast (26.1 ± 0.51 vs. 28.3 ± 0.28), drum, breast bones, breast thaw and cooking losses and thigh cooking loss were lower (P ≤ 0.05) for caged hens than for free range hens. Free range hens had heavier (P ≤ 0.05) gizzards (33.9 ± 1.04 vs. 30.5 ± 0.73) and bones and a lower (P ≤ 0.05) breast meat percentage (47.3 ± 0.94 vs. 51.7 ± 1.35). Meat redness (a*) (0.54 ± 0.222 vs. 1.40 ± 0.135) and hue angle value, skin redness (a*), breast and thigh, Warner-Bratzler shear force (WBSF) values (breast: 12.37 ± 0.411 vs. 17.10 ± 0.751, thigh: 29.68 ± 0.306 vs. 39.75 ± 0.826), breast moisture and thigh ash content were lower (P ≤ 0.05) for caged hens than free range hens. Caged hens had higher (P ≤ 0.05) thigh thaw loss and breast ash content than free range hens. Canola-fed hens had higher (P ≤ 0.05) drum percentages, breast bone weights and percentages, with lower (P ≤ 0.05) thigh and breast meat percentages. Canola-fed hens had lower (P ≤ 0.05) thaw losses, skin yellowness (b*) and Chroma values, breast fat content with higher cooking losses, skin redness (a*) and hue angle value, as well as breast WBSF (12.37 ± 0.411 vs. 15.43 ± 0.600). Palmitic acid, stearic acid, heneicosanoic acid acid, palmitoleic acid, saturated fatty acids (SFA) (34.0 ± 0.56 vs. 38.7 ± 0.71), n-6:n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) ratio (5.5 ± 0.13 vs. 7.2 ± 0.28), atherogenic index (IA), thrombogenic index (IT), delta-5 desaturase (D5D, elongase index and thiosterase index were lower (P ≤ 0.05) for canola-fed hen breast meat. Breast meat from conventionally fed hens had lower (P ≤ 0.05) myristic acid, lignoceric acid, nervonic acid, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), PUFA:SFA ratio (0.7 ± 0.05 vs. 0.9 ± 0.02), n-3 PUFA (3.4 ± 0.31 vs. 5.1 ± 0.17), hypocholesterolemic:Hypercholesterolaemic (h/H), stearoyl-CoA desaturase 16 (SCD16) and stearoyl-CoA desaturase 18 (SCD18). The breast meat from conventionally fed hens had lower (P ≤ 0.05) metallic flavor than that from canola-fed hens. Strong positive correlations were observed for overall aroma with chicken (r = 0.965, P < 0.001) and brothy aroma (r = 0.827, P < 0.001); overall aroma with overall flavor (r = 0.680, P < 0.001), chicken flavor (r = 0.668, P < 0.001) and brothy flavor (r = 0.548, P = 0.006); initial juiciness with sustained juiciness (r = 0.771, P < 0.001) and tenderness (r = 0.537, P = 0.007); sustained juiciness with tenderness (r = 0.790, P < 0.001) and chewiness with residue (r = 0.783, P < 0.001). Whilst strong negative correlations were observed for: sustained juiciness with chewiness (r = -0.655, P = 0.001) and residue (r = 0.783, P < 0.001) and for tenderness with chewiness (r = 0.845, P < 0.001) and residue (r = -0.855, P < 0.001). Results of this study highlight that a free range production system when compared to a conventional cage system increased undesirable carcass and physical meat traits of spent laying hens. On the other hand, canola meal inclusion incorporates beneficial health aspects without affecting the sensory profile of meat derived from spent laying hens, both groups of hens being reared in battery cage system. Spent laying hen breasts can be consumed as a functional food (especially canolafed) since the fat content and composition was observed to be close to that which is recommended for a healthy diet.
- Full Text:
Evaluating farmers' perceptions on climate variability and the impact of management practices on rangeland condition at Tukulu Farm, South Africa
- Authors: Huza, Siphamandla
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Range management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Livestock -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Pasture Science
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10586 , vital:35611
- Description: Rangelands are ecological systems largely used for extensive livestock production, which continually play a vital role in developing the economy of rural communities worldwide. These ecosystems also have the potential to provide vital secondary resources like medicinal plants, firewood and wild foods. This study assessed the impacts of management practices on rangeland condition at Tukulu communal farm in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Communal farmers’ perceptions were also investigated on vegetation change and awareness to climate variability. A structured questionnaire with open-ended and closed questions was used to interview communal farmers about several components of their rangeland, their awareness to climate variability and their household demographics were recorded. A rangeland condition assessment with the use of a three-tier system was used to determine vegetation condition and assessment of vegetal change over the past ten to twenty years. Botanical species composition, biomass yield, basal cover, woody plant density, browsing units and soil chemical composition were measured. Tukulu communal rangeland was demarcated into three homogenous vegetation units (HVU) namely, open grassland, scattered bushland and dense bushland. Sample sites of (100×50 m)2 with four replicates were constructed in each HVU. Herbaceous vegetation and basal cover were determined along 100 m transects in each sample site using a step-point method. Aboveground biomass production was estimated using a quadrat system following a systematic sampling by cutting all material within 0.25 m2 quadrats located along 100 m transects. Woody plant density (plants/ha), tree equivalents (TE/ha) and browsing unit (BU/ha) were estimated from the number of woody plants, total woody heights and the number of acceptable and available (<1.5 m) woody species. Soil sample analysis was conducted to determine OC, P, K, N, Ca, Mg, Na, Zn, Cu, and Mn and soil pH in all three HVUs. The respondents consisted of 65 percent males and 35 percent females with an average of about five persons per household. The study revealed that communal farmers at Tukulu were fairly knowledgeable about the changes that have occurred in their rangeland. All respondents 100 percent perceived that their rangeland had changed from good to poor condition. This was characterized by the shift from grass dominance to woody plant encroachment. These changes were linked to the perceived changes in climate. Farmers at Tukulu communal area were generally aware of the changes in climate, 95 percent of the respondents’ perceived changes in weather patterns such as changes in rain seasons, hot weather conditions, unpredictable rainfalls, drought, heavy winds and increased temperatures. The results revealed that Tukulu communal rangeland comprised of high species diversity. Twenty-one herbaceous species and 24 woody species were recorded at Tukulu rangeland. The grass species composition was characterised by 71 percent Increaser II species, 24 percent Decreaser and 5 percent Increaser I species. A highly palatable Decreaser species Themeda triandra decreased in abundance from open grassland to scattered bushland. There were no significant differences (p>0.05) in biomass yield in all three HVUs. However, scattered bushland 761.5 kg/ha and dense bushland 735.8 kg/ha had higher biomass yield when compared to open grassland 688.5 kg/ha. Bush encroachment was observed in dense bushland as the woody plant density 4487.5 trees/ha and tree equivalents 3451.3 trees/ha were significantly (P<0.05) higher than the recommended threshold standards of 2400 trees/ha and 2500 TE/ha. Scattered bushland had tree density of 1900 trees/ha and tree-equivalents of 1534.3 TE/ha. Soil macro and micro nutrients differed significantly between the different HVUs. The levels of Na, Ca, Mg, Cu, Mn differed significantly (p<0.05) between HVUs, increasing from open grassland to dense bushland. Organic carbon concentrations were higher under tree canopies in dense bushland. However, the levels of phosphorus and potassium were higher in open grassland than in the wooded areas. Soil pH in scattered bushland (5.3) and dense bushland (5.18) were significantly higher (p<0.05) than in open grassland (4.89). This study shows complications in management policies governing the Tukulu communal area. There is a need to merge both scientific and indigenous ecological knowledge to ensure the desired outcomes, as this could indeed offer some great insights for communal areas. Therefore, a rangeland rehabilitation programme should be implemented at Tukulu communal rangeland, which will address the issue of bush encroachment and implement a rotational grazing system by fencing camps that will be based on acceptable stocking rates.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Huza, Siphamandla
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Range management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Livestock -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Pasture Science
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10586 , vital:35611
- Description: Rangelands are ecological systems largely used for extensive livestock production, which continually play a vital role in developing the economy of rural communities worldwide. These ecosystems also have the potential to provide vital secondary resources like medicinal plants, firewood and wild foods. This study assessed the impacts of management practices on rangeland condition at Tukulu communal farm in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Communal farmers’ perceptions were also investigated on vegetation change and awareness to climate variability. A structured questionnaire with open-ended and closed questions was used to interview communal farmers about several components of their rangeland, their awareness to climate variability and their household demographics were recorded. A rangeland condition assessment with the use of a three-tier system was used to determine vegetation condition and assessment of vegetal change over the past ten to twenty years. Botanical species composition, biomass yield, basal cover, woody plant density, browsing units and soil chemical composition were measured. Tukulu communal rangeland was demarcated into three homogenous vegetation units (HVU) namely, open grassland, scattered bushland and dense bushland. Sample sites of (100×50 m)2 with four replicates were constructed in each HVU. Herbaceous vegetation and basal cover were determined along 100 m transects in each sample site using a step-point method. Aboveground biomass production was estimated using a quadrat system following a systematic sampling by cutting all material within 0.25 m2 quadrats located along 100 m transects. Woody plant density (plants/ha), tree equivalents (TE/ha) and browsing unit (BU/ha) were estimated from the number of woody plants, total woody heights and the number of acceptable and available (<1.5 m) woody species. Soil sample analysis was conducted to determine OC, P, K, N, Ca, Mg, Na, Zn, Cu, and Mn and soil pH in all three HVUs. The respondents consisted of 65 percent males and 35 percent females with an average of about five persons per household. The study revealed that communal farmers at Tukulu were fairly knowledgeable about the changes that have occurred in their rangeland. All respondents 100 percent perceived that their rangeland had changed from good to poor condition. This was characterized by the shift from grass dominance to woody plant encroachment. These changes were linked to the perceived changes in climate. Farmers at Tukulu communal area were generally aware of the changes in climate, 95 percent of the respondents’ perceived changes in weather patterns such as changes in rain seasons, hot weather conditions, unpredictable rainfalls, drought, heavy winds and increased temperatures. The results revealed that Tukulu communal rangeland comprised of high species diversity. Twenty-one herbaceous species and 24 woody species were recorded at Tukulu rangeland. The grass species composition was characterised by 71 percent Increaser II species, 24 percent Decreaser and 5 percent Increaser I species. A highly palatable Decreaser species Themeda triandra decreased in abundance from open grassland to scattered bushland. There were no significant differences (p>0.05) in biomass yield in all three HVUs. However, scattered bushland 761.5 kg/ha and dense bushland 735.8 kg/ha had higher biomass yield when compared to open grassland 688.5 kg/ha. Bush encroachment was observed in dense bushland as the woody plant density 4487.5 trees/ha and tree equivalents 3451.3 trees/ha were significantly (P<0.05) higher than the recommended threshold standards of 2400 trees/ha and 2500 TE/ha. Scattered bushland had tree density of 1900 trees/ha and tree-equivalents of 1534.3 TE/ha. Soil macro and micro nutrients differed significantly between the different HVUs. The levels of Na, Ca, Mg, Cu, Mn differed significantly (p<0.05) between HVUs, increasing from open grassland to dense bushland. Organic carbon concentrations were higher under tree canopies in dense bushland. However, the levels of phosphorus and potassium were higher in open grassland than in the wooded areas. Soil pH in scattered bushland (5.3) and dense bushland (5.18) were significantly higher (p<0.05) than in open grassland (4.89). This study shows complications in management policies governing the Tukulu communal area. There is a need to merge both scientific and indigenous ecological knowledge to ensure the desired outcomes, as this could indeed offer some great insights for communal areas. Therefore, a rangeland rehabilitation programme should be implemented at Tukulu communal rangeland, which will address the issue of bush encroachment and implement a rotational grazing system by fencing camps that will be based on acceptable stocking rates.
- Full Text:
Evaluation of pharmacological properties and anti-neoplastic potentials of pelargonium iquinans and opuntia stricta extracts using acute leukemia cell lines
- Authors: Izuegbuna, Ogochukwu Osita
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Pelargoniums Medicinal plants
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Sc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10372 , vital:35442
- Description: Leukaemia like other cancers is a public health issue, and coupled with the issue of drug resistance, toxicity and refractory disease novel treatments both as definitive and supportive care become necessary. The dissertation was designed to evaluate two medicinal plants (Opuntia stricta and Pelargonium inquinans) and their antineoplastic potentials. The phytochemicals analyses were done using standard methods with three different solvents (acetone, aqueous and ethanol). Vitamins analyses was also done using standard methods. The result revealed that vitamin A,C and E were present in the plants. Cell based anti-inflammatory activity were carried out using RAW264.7 macrophages cell, and COX-2 and NO expression as inflammatory markers. Cell based cytotoxicity and antineoplastic activity was investigated using RAW 264.7 macrophages cell, U937 and Jurkat cells. The results of the phytochemical analyses using GC/MS showed that phenols, flavonoids, flavonol, tannin, proanthocyanidin, saponin, alkaloids and phytate were present in these plants. In vitro antioxidant activity was carried out using nitric oxide (NO), alpha, alpha-diphenyl- β-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), phosphomolybdenum activity, and iron reducing power (FRAP) techniques. The results of the antioxidant activity showed both plants had antioxidant properties that can be attributed to the phytochemical and vitamins contents. The results showed that both plants had anti-inflammatory properties which can also be attributed to their phytochemicals. The GC-MS analysis of the essential oils of both plants showed the presence of monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, fatty acids, and esters. The results showed that O. stricta extracts have mild cytotoxicity, while P. inquinans have strong cytotoxicity. The cell cycle analysis showed Pelargonium inquinans extracts induced G0/G1 phase arrest and cleaved caspase-3. This study has shown the antineoplastic potential of P. inquinans which may be attributed to some phytochemicals in it such as carophyllene, humulene, beta myrcene and beta pinene.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Izuegbuna, Ogochukwu Osita
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Pelargoniums Medicinal plants
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Sc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10372 , vital:35442
- Description: Leukaemia like other cancers is a public health issue, and coupled with the issue of drug resistance, toxicity and refractory disease novel treatments both as definitive and supportive care become necessary. The dissertation was designed to evaluate two medicinal plants (Opuntia stricta and Pelargonium inquinans) and their antineoplastic potentials. The phytochemicals analyses were done using standard methods with three different solvents (acetone, aqueous and ethanol). Vitamins analyses was also done using standard methods. The result revealed that vitamin A,C and E were present in the plants. Cell based anti-inflammatory activity were carried out using RAW264.7 macrophages cell, and COX-2 and NO expression as inflammatory markers. Cell based cytotoxicity and antineoplastic activity was investigated using RAW 264.7 macrophages cell, U937 and Jurkat cells. The results of the phytochemical analyses using GC/MS showed that phenols, flavonoids, flavonol, tannin, proanthocyanidin, saponin, alkaloids and phytate were present in these plants. In vitro antioxidant activity was carried out using nitric oxide (NO), alpha, alpha-diphenyl- β-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), phosphomolybdenum activity, and iron reducing power (FRAP) techniques. The results of the antioxidant activity showed both plants had antioxidant properties that can be attributed to the phytochemical and vitamins contents. The results showed that both plants had anti-inflammatory properties which can also be attributed to their phytochemicals. The GC-MS analysis of the essential oils of both plants showed the presence of monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, fatty acids, and esters. The results showed that O. stricta extracts have mild cytotoxicity, while P. inquinans have strong cytotoxicity. The cell cycle analysis showed Pelargonium inquinans extracts induced G0/G1 phase arrest and cleaved caspase-3. This study has shown the antineoplastic potential of P. inquinans which may be attributed to some phytochemicals in it such as carophyllene, humulene, beta myrcene and beta pinene.
- Full Text:
Evaluation of Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality communication strategies in reducing the risk of water-borne diseases outbreak
- Animawun, Oluwatosin Tolulope
- Authors: Animawun, Oluwatosin Tolulope
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Communication in public health Communicable diseases -- Prevention Waterborne infection -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10531 , vital:35595
- Description: Health Communication plays an important role in health sustenance. It is cardinal to disease prevention, health promotion and quality of life. Water-borne diseases are known to pose a significant threat to global health and has claimed many lives. This study seeks to evaluate Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality’s communication strategies employed in reducing the risk of water-borne diseases outbreak in the community. The research method used for this study is mixed method. In-depth interview and questionnaire was used to collect data. The two sampling procedures that were used in this study are purposive sampling for the qualitative aspect of this study and simple random sampling for the quantitative aspect of this study. The conclusion that was drawn from this study is that Raymond Mhlaba (formerly Nkonkobe) Local Municipality makes use of a communication strategy, which is awareness campaign, in educating its people about water-borne diseases and its prevention but the information is limited in its reach. This study recommends that the awareness campaign done by Raymond Mhlaba (formerly Nkonkobe) Local Municipality should be embarked on more frequently because the more the messages are reinforced for a long time, the more the people in the community are able to remember and the greater the likelihood that they will act upon the message. In addition, Raymond Mhlaba (formerly Nkonkobe) Local Municipality should carry out evaluations like this research at least quarterly in order to assess the impact of the awareness campaigns on the Community, which can also be used as a tool to educate the people of Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality about Water-borne diseases. Finally, social media is a new trend that most people are now into, most especially the youths; Raymond Mhlaba (formerly Nkonkobe) Local Municipality should key into this and educate the public on platforms on social media as it can be seen as a form of reinforcing health information.
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- Authors: Animawun, Oluwatosin Tolulope
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Communication in public health Communicable diseases -- Prevention Waterborne infection -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10531 , vital:35595
- Description: Health Communication plays an important role in health sustenance. It is cardinal to disease prevention, health promotion and quality of life. Water-borne diseases are known to pose a significant threat to global health and has claimed many lives. This study seeks to evaluate Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality’s communication strategies employed in reducing the risk of water-borne diseases outbreak in the community. The research method used for this study is mixed method. In-depth interview and questionnaire was used to collect data. The two sampling procedures that were used in this study are purposive sampling for the qualitative aspect of this study and simple random sampling for the quantitative aspect of this study. The conclusion that was drawn from this study is that Raymond Mhlaba (formerly Nkonkobe) Local Municipality makes use of a communication strategy, which is awareness campaign, in educating its people about water-borne diseases and its prevention but the information is limited in its reach. This study recommends that the awareness campaign done by Raymond Mhlaba (formerly Nkonkobe) Local Municipality should be embarked on more frequently because the more the messages are reinforced for a long time, the more the people in the community are able to remember and the greater the likelihood that they will act upon the message. In addition, Raymond Mhlaba (formerly Nkonkobe) Local Municipality should carry out evaluations like this research at least quarterly in order to assess the impact of the awareness campaigns on the Community, which can also be used as a tool to educate the people of Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality about Water-borne diseases. Finally, social media is a new trend that most people are now into, most especially the youths; Raymond Mhlaba (formerly Nkonkobe) Local Municipality should key into this and educate the public on platforms on social media as it can be seen as a form of reinforcing health information.
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Evaluation of the development and use of the institutional repository by staff and students at the University of Fort Hare in Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Kagoro, Kisemiire Christine
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Institutional repositories Information storage and retrieval systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MLIS
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6292 , vital:29556
- Description: This study sought to evaluate the development and use of Institutional Repository by staff and students at the University of Fort Hare (UFH) in Eastern Cape, South Africa. In this study, staff comprised of academic staff (lecturers) and library staff. The aim of this study was to investigate the development and use of Institutional Repository at UFH. To achieve the objectives, both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies were employed. Data was collected through questionnaires and face-to-face interviews. Purposive sampling technique was used to select the participants of the study. Qualitative data was analysed thematically while, quantitative data was analysed statically by help of SPSS software. The results showed that: library staff and management are aware and provide support for the development and use of the Institutional Repository at the UFH; awareness level of IR among lecturers and students is still low; the infrastructure available for the use of IR is not well developed; and lastly, library users which consist of students and academic staff face various barriers in the use and support of IR development. The study recommended for dynamic training, and marketing of IR through seminars and workshops should be started by expert affiliations and universities administration to advance the idea of IR among the University community. Low levels of awareness of the university repository, funding and shortage of library staff remains an issue and could be addressed by further investigating the effectiveness of different communication channels. It is pertinent that the findings of this study would be useful in various tertiary’s institutions of higher learning across the globe in order to embark on IR.
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- Authors: Kagoro, Kisemiire Christine
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Institutional repositories Information storage and retrieval systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MLIS
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6292 , vital:29556
- Description: This study sought to evaluate the development and use of Institutional Repository by staff and students at the University of Fort Hare (UFH) in Eastern Cape, South Africa. In this study, staff comprised of academic staff (lecturers) and library staff. The aim of this study was to investigate the development and use of Institutional Repository at UFH. To achieve the objectives, both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies were employed. Data was collected through questionnaires and face-to-face interviews. Purposive sampling technique was used to select the participants of the study. Qualitative data was analysed thematically while, quantitative data was analysed statically by help of SPSS software. The results showed that: library staff and management are aware and provide support for the development and use of the Institutional Repository at the UFH; awareness level of IR among lecturers and students is still low; the infrastructure available for the use of IR is not well developed; and lastly, library users which consist of students and academic staff face various barriers in the use and support of IR development. The study recommended for dynamic training, and marketing of IR through seminars and workshops should be started by expert affiliations and universities administration to advance the idea of IR among the University community. Low levels of awareness of the university repository, funding and shortage of library staff remains an issue and could be addressed by further investigating the effectiveness of different communication channels. It is pertinent that the findings of this study would be useful in various tertiary’s institutions of higher learning across the globe in order to embark on IR.
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Ex-offenders' perceptions towards their sexual victimisation during incarceration : a case study of Sinthumule area under Makhado Local Municipality: Limpopo Province
- Tshidada, Thifulufhelwi Cedric
- Authors: Tshidada, Thifulufhelwi Cedric
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Prisoners--Sexual behavior Criminals--Rehabilitation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Criminology
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17771 , vital:41199
- Description: The study aimed to investigate or to explore offenders’ perceptions on sexual assault within or during their incarceration in Makhado Correctional Centre. For the purpose of this study, the researcher is inclined to use qualitative research method because many it allows respondents to express their feelings. This is phenomenological in the sense that the researcher aimed to describe the experiences of the participants. In an attempt to resolve the research problem, the study embarked on qualitative method to guide the in depth structured interviews questions with the offenders about their experience on sexual assault during their incarceration. The researcher employed the method of field study in data collection in a natural settings or environments. The data collected were based on the research questions to establish the causes and consequences of sexual assaults and reasons why the victims are so lackadaisical in reporting sexual assaults to the authorities. Therefore, this study used the purposive sampling method to select participants. The data collection method for this research is an in-depth structured interview. In-depth interviews were repeated face-to-face between the researcher and participants in order to give the participants an opportunity to establish a better understanding. For the purpose of data analysis this study made use of content analysis which is a recommended method in qualitative study.
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- Authors: Tshidada, Thifulufhelwi Cedric
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Prisoners--Sexual behavior Criminals--Rehabilitation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Criminology
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17771 , vital:41199
- Description: The study aimed to investigate or to explore offenders’ perceptions on sexual assault within or during their incarceration in Makhado Correctional Centre. For the purpose of this study, the researcher is inclined to use qualitative research method because many it allows respondents to express their feelings. This is phenomenological in the sense that the researcher aimed to describe the experiences of the participants. In an attempt to resolve the research problem, the study embarked on qualitative method to guide the in depth structured interviews questions with the offenders about their experience on sexual assault during their incarceration. The researcher employed the method of field study in data collection in a natural settings or environments. The data collected were based on the research questions to establish the causes and consequences of sexual assaults and reasons why the victims are so lackadaisical in reporting sexual assaults to the authorities. Therefore, this study used the purposive sampling method to select participants. The data collection method for this research is an in-depth structured interview. In-depth interviews were repeated face-to-face between the researcher and participants in order to give the participants an opportunity to establish a better understanding. For the purpose of data analysis this study made use of content analysis which is a recommended method in qualitative study.
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Experience of abuse: why wives do not leave
- Authors: Makhananda, Phakama
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Abused wives -- South Africa , Family violence , Abused women -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Social Work
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10625 , vital:35645
- Description: The focus of this study is to investigate factors that cause women to remain in abusive relationships. It has also focused on investigating the experience of abuse, the consequences of abuse and the support that women desire during their time of abuse. Domestic violence against women in South Africa and globally has been increasing by the day. In 2017 there has been more than ten reports of women who have been battered by their partners in South Africa and they were reported dead, therefore the aim is to focus on investigating the reasons why women stay in abusive relationships. The research approach for the study was qualitative in nature. The study adopted snowball sampling as the sampling technique for the study and ten women who have left their partners for two years or longer were interviewed. Interviews were conducted at Living Waters Victim Empowerment Centre in East London and the data was analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. The key finding of the study is that financial dependency, culture and children play a major role for women to stay in abusive relationships. All ten participants who were interviewed were aware that they were being abused, however, they used unemployment, children, culture and love for their partners as their reasons for remaining in abusive relationships. The study found that women have been affected physically, emotionally and psychologically by the abuse which has negatively impacted their daily functioning. 4 This study also discovered that if women receive family support during their time of abuse, they will be able to make informed decisions and leave their abusive partners. One of the recommendations of the study is that women should be encouraged to expose the abuse they are enduring through campaigns and workshops. They should also be taught skills that will assist them to escape abusive partners. There is also a need for educational programs that will focus on men and the impact of domestic violence on women and children.
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- Authors: Makhananda, Phakama
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Abused wives -- South Africa , Family violence , Abused women -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Social Work
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10625 , vital:35645
- Description: The focus of this study is to investigate factors that cause women to remain in abusive relationships. It has also focused on investigating the experience of abuse, the consequences of abuse and the support that women desire during their time of abuse. Domestic violence against women in South Africa and globally has been increasing by the day. In 2017 there has been more than ten reports of women who have been battered by their partners in South Africa and they were reported dead, therefore the aim is to focus on investigating the reasons why women stay in abusive relationships. The research approach for the study was qualitative in nature. The study adopted snowball sampling as the sampling technique for the study and ten women who have left their partners for two years or longer were interviewed. Interviews were conducted at Living Waters Victim Empowerment Centre in East London and the data was analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. The key finding of the study is that financial dependency, culture and children play a major role for women to stay in abusive relationships. All ten participants who were interviewed were aware that they were being abused, however, they used unemployment, children, culture and love for their partners as their reasons for remaining in abusive relationships. The study found that women have been affected physically, emotionally and psychologically by the abuse which has negatively impacted their daily functioning. 4 This study also discovered that if women receive family support during their time of abuse, they will be able to make informed decisions and leave their abusive partners. One of the recommendations of the study is that women should be encouraged to expose the abuse they are enduring through campaigns and workshops. They should also be taught skills that will assist them to escape abusive partners. There is also a need for educational programs that will focus on men and the impact of domestic violence on women and children.
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Exploring experiences of student nurses regarding the implementation of community-based education at the nursing college in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Sefatsa, Thenjiwe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Community education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Nurses -- Education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Nursing Science
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10657 , vital:35653
- Description: The aim of the study was to explore the experiences of student nurses regarding the implementation of CBE and allow them to tell their story of how CBE impacted to their academic experience. Purposive non-probability sampling was the method of choice. The following research question guided this study: What are the experiences of nursing students at the nursing college on the implementation of CBE as a teaching-learning strategy? The participants in this study were the fourth year students registered in the four year diploma and have been exposed to CBE, according to regulation 425 of the Nursing Act, 2005(Act No.33 of 2005). Fifty (50) students voluntarily participated in the focus groups discussions. Data analysis was done concurrently with data collection. Data was analysed manually as it was categorised into themes, categories, and subcatagories. For this study, a category system/ template was developed to code the data according to the categories, therefore related concepts were grouped together to facilitate the coding process. The final analysis led to the development of a report presenting the interpretation and presentation of results. RESULTS The study results revealed that students had benefited from CBE as a teaching learning strategy. Furthermore, participants reported that CBE had an impact in their training in terms of acquisition of skills, personal and professional growth and correlation of theory to practice. Discussions of findings, along with recommendations for practice conclude the study. Suggestions might be made to improve ways in the implementation of CBE in the nursing college
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- Authors: Sefatsa, Thenjiwe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Community education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Nurses -- Education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Nursing Science
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10657 , vital:35653
- Description: The aim of the study was to explore the experiences of student nurses regarding the implementation of CBE and allow them to tell their story of how CBE impacted to their academic experience. Purposive non-probability sampling was the method of choice. The following research question guided this study: What are the experiences of nursing students at the nursing college on the implementation of CBE as a teaching-learning strategy? The participants in this study were the fourth year students registered in the four year diploma and have been exposed to CBE, according to regulation 425 of the Nursing Act, 2005(Act No.33 of 2005). Fifty (50) students voluntarily participated in the focus groups discussions. Data analysis was done concurrently with data collection. Data was analysed manually as it was categorised into themes, categories, and subcatagories. For this study, a category system/ template was developed to code the data according to the categories, therefore related concepts were grouped together to facilitate the coding process. The final analysis led to the development of a report presenting the interpretation and presentation of results. RESULTS The study results revealed that students had benefited from CBE as a teaching learning strategy. Furthermore, participants reported that CBE had an impact in their training in terms of acquisition of skills, personal and professional growth and correlation of theory to practice. Discussions of findings, along with recommendations for practice conclude the study. Suggestions might be made to improve ways in the implementation of CBE in the nursing college
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Exploring the effectiveness of the Ucoceko laundry project through the assessment of the positive development contributions in Molteno, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Qitsi, Asanda
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Youth development Laundry industry Rural development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15661 , vital:40499
- Description: The research explored the effectiveness of Ucoceko Laundry Project assessing the positive development contributions in the Molteno area in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The researcher cross examined the contribution of Ucoceko Laundry project on economic benefits, the challenges faced by the beneficiaries of the Ucoceko Laundry Project and the support services that social service practitioners and other stakeholders are offering in Ucoceko Laundry project. The study used a qualitative with in- depth interviews as a research instrument to collect data. The research instrument had closed ended and open-ended questions making it easy and better for the participants to express their views. The study utilized empowerment theory. Empowerment theory is the multi-dimensional social process that helps people gain control over their own lives. The researcher interviewed 15 Xhosa speaking participants to gather the required data from mixed gender categories of males and females respectively and the use of 5 focus group members which comprised of government officials and funders who have contributed to the development and success of the project. The researcher has utilized a non-probability sampling method which is a specifically purposive technique. Researcher analyzed data using a qualitative approach in a comprehensive thematic way.
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- Authors: Qitsi, Asanda
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Youth development Laundry industry Rural development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15661 , vital:40499
- Description: The research explored the effectiveness of Ucoceko Laundry Project assessing the positive development contributions in the Molteno area in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The researcher cross examined the contribution of Ucoceko Laundry project on economic benefits, the challenges faced by the beneficiaries of the Ucoceko Laundry Project and the support services that social service practitioners and other stakeholders are offering in Ucoceko Laundry project. The study used a qualitative with in- depth interviews as a research instrument to collect data. The research instrument had closed ended and open-ended questions making it easy and better for the participants to express their views. The study utilized empowerment theory. Empowerment theory is the multi-dimensional social process that helps people gain control over their own lives. The researcher interviewed 15 Xhosa speaking participants to gather the required data from mixed gender categories of males and females respectively and the use of 5 focus group members which comprised of government officials and funders who have contributed to the development and success of the project. The researcher has utilized a non-probability sampling method which is a specifically purposive technique. Researcher analyzed data using a qualitative approach in a comprehensive thematic way.
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Exploring the experience of family members living with individuals who abuse alcohol and/or substances: Study conducted in Khayelitsha, Western Cape
- Authors: Modise, Badise
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Alcoholism , Substance abuse , Family violence
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13116 , vital:39466
- Description: The constant, excessive and frequently uncontrollable abuse of alcoholic beverages and drug related substances continues to have many devastating effects on family members of the abusers. The impact can be explored in various ways, but the findings are likely to be hand in glove regardless of the causes associated with this phenomenon. This study aimed to explore the experiences of family members living with individuals who abuse alcohol and/or substances through case studies conducted in Khayelitsha, in the Western Province of South Africa. The study was conducted to gain greater insight into the experiences of the family members in order to provide the appropriate assistance to help them deal with these issues. From the data that was captured and analysed, it was clear that alcohol and substance abuse inflicted profound suffering on family members. It contributes to high levels of interpersonal conflict, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, financial problems as well as health issues for all parties involved - causing extreme emotional pain and suffering. Living with an alcohol or substance abuser inevitably results in financial burden, dysfunctional relationships and family life in addition to impacting on safety needs. Furthermore, the results have shown that family members of alcohol and substance dependents develop psychological and mental distress; anxiety, and insomnia. Likewise, the family members develop psychophysiological symptoms such as high-blood pressure and chronic headaches. With regards to rehabilitation, family members reported exclusion from rehabilitation programs and lost their belief in self-rehabilitation or detoxification.
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- Authors: Modise, Badise
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Alcoholism , Substance abuse , Family violence
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13116 , vital:39466
- Description: The constant, excessive and frequently uncontrollable abuse of alcoholic beverages and drug related substances continues to have many devastating effects on family members of the abusers. The impact can be explored in various ways, but the findings are likely to be hand in glove regardless of the causes associated with this phenomenon. This study aimed to explore the experiences of family members living with individuals who abuse alcohol and/or substances through case studies conducted in Khayelitsha, in the Western Province of South Africa. The study was conducted to gain greater insight into the experiences of the family members in order to provide the appropriate assistance to help them deal with these issues. From the data that was captured and analysed, it was clear that alcohol and substance abuse inflicted profound suffering on family members. It contributes to high levels of interpersonal conflict, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, financial problems as well as health issues for all parties involved - causing extreme emotional pain and suffering. Living with an alcohol or substance abuser inevitably results in financial burden, dysfunctional relationships and family life in addition to impacting on safety needs. Furthermore, the results have shown that family members of alcohol and substance dependents develop psychological and mental distress; anxiety, and insomnia. Likewise, the family members develop psychophysiological symptoms such as high-blood pressure and chronic headaches. With regards to rehabilitation, family members reported exclusion from rehabilitation programs and lost their belief in self-rehabilitation or detoxification.
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Exploring the identity construction of Johannesburg bodybuilders with Photovoice
- Authors: Rogers, Keegan
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Identity (Psychology) Bodybuilders Athletes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12631 , vital:39294
- Description: Identity is a complex concept involving not only who one is, but who one is becoming. Identity is often shaped by one’s experiences and by one’s environment. The identity of bodybuilders is constructed through their experiences, which are often hidden. Using Participant Action Research, specifically Photovoice, the participants were provided a platform to share their experience from their own perspective. This research aimed to explore the identity of bodybuilders and what shapes their identity. Four male bodybuilders between the ages of twenty-one and twenty-eight participated in the study. The sample of participants consisted of two black males and two Caucasian males. The four athletes either selected or took photographs of significant aspects in their life that they felt contributed to their identity. The researcher conducted semi-structured interviews with the athletes regarding the photographic images they took. The interview transcripts and photographs were analysed using Thematic Analysis. Five main themes were identified: Diet (including water intake and on/off season cycles), Presentation of physique, Psychological impact on self-confidence, Risks involved with bodybuilding and Impact on personal life. Significances of the themes were discussed with the aim of increasing awareness regarding the experience of bodybuilders and how their experience as bodybuilders has shaped their identity.
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- Authors: Rogers, Keegan
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Identity (Psychology) Bodybuilders Athletes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12631 , vital:39294
- Description: Identity is a complex concept involving not only who one is, but who one is becoming. Identity is often shaped by one’s experiences and by one’s environment. The identity of bodybuilders is constructed through their experiences, which are often hidden. Using Participant Action Research, specifically Photovoice, the participants were provided a platform to share their experience from their own perspective. This research aimed to explore the identity of bodybuilders and what shapes their identity. Four male bodybuilders between the ages of twenty-one and twenty-eight participated in the study. The sample of participants consisted of two black males and two Caucasian males. The four athletes either selected or took photographs of significant aspects in their life that they felt contributed to their identity. The researcher conducted semi-structured interviews with the athletes regarding the photographic images they took. The interview transcripts and photographs were analysed using Thematic Analysis. Five main themes were identified: Diet (including water intake and on/off season cycles), Presentation of physique, Psychological impact on self-confidence, Risks involved with bodybuilding and Impact on personal life. Significances of the themes were discussed with the aim of increasing awareness regarding the experience of bodybuilders and how their experience as bodybuilders has shaped their identity.
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Exploring the role of social work intervention in empowering victims of crime : a case study of Alice community in Alice
- Authors: Njongi, Ayanda Griffiths
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Victims of crimes--South Africa Victims of crimes--Services for
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Social Work
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15276 , vital:40333
- Description: The aim of the study is to explore the role of social work intervention in empowering victims of crime in the Alice community. The study used a qualitative research design to collect data from nineteen (19) participants. The findings revealed that people living in rural areas are vulnerable because they do not get the necessary support from the government, social workers and other professional bodies. Yet the role played by social workers to assist victims of crime is not enough because they are few and they do not have enough resources to execute their work. The study reveals that most of the victims of crime were females, others were employed and few of them were unemployed. The study recommends that policy makers need to evaluate the overall impact of different criminal activities by measuring the extent to which dependence changes as policies are changed. Debates should be centred on a discussion of how to design better programs in order to achieve the developmental objectives since it is evident that criminal activities grow day-by-day in South Africa. The study concludes that the researcher hopes that the objectives were adequately handled as they attempted as much as possible to address the possible implications associated with victimisation.
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- Authors: Njongi, Ayanda Griffiths
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Victims of crimes--South Africa Victims of crimes--Services for
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Social Work
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15276 , vital:40333
- Description: The aim of the study is to explore the role of social work intervention in empowering victims of crime in the Alice community. The study used a qualitative research design to collect data from nineteen (19) participants. The findings revealed that people living in rural areas are vulnerable because they do not get the necessary support from the government, social workers and other professional bodies. Yet the role played by social workers to assist victims of crime is not enough because they are few and they do not have enough resources to execute their work. The study reveals that most of the victims of crime were females, others were employed and few of them were unemployed. The study recommends that policy makers need to evaluate the overall impact of different criminal activities by measuring the extent to which dependence changes as policies are changed. Debates should be centred on a discussion of how to design better programs in order to achieve the developmental objectives since it is evident that criminal activities grow day-by-day in South Africa. The study concludes that the researcher hopes that the objectives were adequately handled as they attempted as much as possible to address the possible implications associated with victimisation.
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Exploring the standardization of musical and dancing styles in relation to worship styles in the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian, Blantyre Synod, Malawi
- Authors: University of Fort Hare
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Presbyterian Church -- Malawi Presbyterians -- Malawi Church music -- Malawi
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Music
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10442 , vital:35468
- Description: The study sought to explore the standardization of music and dance styles in relation to worship styles in the CCAP Blantyre Synod in Malawi. The study further sought to understand the factors that influence the selection of songs during worship, and strategies for standardizing the existing songs in the church. The research was guided by the qualitative research approach. The interpretive research paradigm guided the interpretation of data in this study. A case study research design was used to get an in- depth understanding of the issues related to music and dance in the CCAP. The participants were purposively selected and interviews were conducted. Focus group interviews and observation supplemented the data collected through one on one interviews. Data analysis was achieved through a detailed narration of the participants‟ responses and, thereafter, themes were identified for further discussion. The main findings of the study were: factors influencing selection of music during worship services; lack or availability of music selection guidelines; age of choir members; commercialization and instrumentation of music; the use of traditional and classical music in the church; mixed dancing styles being introduced in the church; and the suggestion to use the Bible as framework for resolving conflicts in the church; and the need to train church members on church music. The study recommends the use of detailed and appropriate music guidelines in selecting songs. In cases of conflicting tastes in music, the study has proposed a process of resolving such conflicts within the CCAP of Blantyre Synod. The study also examined music and dance styles but not on other aspects of worship such as prayer and offering. The findings of this study may be useful in advising and resolving challenges associated with the incorporation of music in the church.
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- Authors: University of Fort Hare
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Presbyterian Church -- Malawi Presbyterians -- Malawi Church music -- Malawi
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Music
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10442 , vital:35468
- Description: The study sought to explore the standardization of music and dance styles in relation to worship styles in the CCAP Blantyre Synod in Malawi. The study further sought to understand the factors that influence the selection of songs during worship, and strategies for standardizing the existing songs in the church. The research was guided by the qualitative research approach. The interpretive research paradigm guided the interpretation of data in this study. A case study research design was used to get an in- depth understanding of the issues related to music and dance in the CCAP. The participants were purposively selected and interviews were conducted. Focus group interviews and observation supplemented the data collected through one on one interviews. Data analysis was achieved through a detailed narration of the participants‟ responses and, thereafter, themes were identified for further discussion. The main findings of the study were: factors influencing selection of music during worship services; lack or availability of music selection guidelines; age of choir members; commercialization and instrumentation of music; the use of traditional and classical music in the church; mixed dancing styles being introduced in the church; and the suggestion to use the Bible as framework for resolving conflicts in the church; and the need to train church members on church music. The study recommends the use of detailed and appropriate music guidelines in selecting songs. In cases of conflicting tastes in music, the study has proposed a process of resolving such conflicts within the CCAP of Blantyre Synod. The study also examined music and dance styles but not on other aspects of worship such as prayer and offering. The findings of this study may be useful in advising and resolving challenges associated with the incorporation of music in the church.
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Exploring women's experience of fundal pressure during the second stage of labour
- Authors: Okafor, Uchenna Benedine
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Labor (Obstetrics) Childbirth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Magister of Curationis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15532 , vital:40424
- Description: Background and Aim: Despite the use of fundal pressure globally, there is a scarcity of information available on how women experience the application of uterine fundal pressure (UFP) during the second stage of labour. The aim of study was to explore the experiences of women concerning UFP application during the second stage of labour. Understanding women’s perception about UFP is important in informing the generation of new ideas to improve on the application of UFP for better outcomes. Methods: This was a qualitative, interpretive, and phenomenological analysis designed to explore the experiences of women regarding the application of UFP during the second stage of labour. Hermeneutics was applied to interpret the participants’ descriptions of their experiences as they tried to make sense of their exposure to UFP; bearing this in mind, the participants’ own interpretation was not distorted. The researcher immersed herself in each transcript, in order to make sense of each participant’s experiences and to gain a sense of what the participant had experienced during UFP application. Each interview was transcribed and analysed independently; and the convergences and divergences of themes were identified without losing the original meaning of each participant’s description before moving on to the subsequent interviews. The target population was women who had had UFP during second stage of labour. A purposive sampling method was used to select three women who were admitted to the DVDHMOU during the research period and who met the inclusion criteria. Information was collected through individual face-to-face interviews and semi-structured interview guide. The principal question was framed as: “Can you please share with me how you felt when the midwives pushed on your tummy to get the baby out”? An audio tape was used to record the interviews, and a notepad was used to make notes of gestures such smiles or other facial expressions. After each interview, the recorded interview was transferred onto a laptop and a file was opened for the interviewee, identified by a pseudonym. The interviews were transcribed verbatim as Word documents. Trustworthiness was maintained by applying the principles of credibility, transferability, dependability and conformability. Ethical approval was granted by the Ethical Committee of the University of Fort Hare. Permission to conduct the study was sought from the Eastern Cape Research Committee and Buffalo City Metropolitan Health District. Informed consent was obtained from the participants prior to data collection. Each interview was analysed separately after completion. Data was analysed using thematic content analysis applicable to interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) studies using six steps: reading and re-reading; initial noting; developing emergent themes; searching for connections across the emergent themes; moving to the next case; and lastly, looking for patterns across cases. Findings: The findings of this study indicated that the informants had feelings of fear, loneliness, worry and tearfulness; but also happiness associated with UFP during second stage of labour. They were also worried and expressed fear and anxiety concerning their infants; and their ability to give birth increased as they get tired in the process of pushing during UFP application. However, seeing their infants for the first time took most of the worries away, and all informants expressed relief when the birthing process was over. They also felt that their birthing experience was a very painful event; and were left alone, and they had not been given anything to drink or eat during labour. Midwives threatened them that their inability to pushing appropriately, could cause the death of their infants, leaving them with feelings of guilt and despair when their babies did not cry directly after birth. The findings demonstrated that midwives did not properly inform women what to expect during the second stage of their labour, whilst the midwives expected birthing mothers to know what was happening to them and how to react. Women in labour therefore depended almost entirely on information received from family members, and went into labour with preconceived ideas about labour pain. Although women do experience pain during the second stage of labour, the application UFP increased their pain. Four main themes emerged from the analysis, which are: perceived severity of UFP pain,emotional/physical reaction to UFP pain, perceptions of UFP and perception of midwives care and treatment. Conclusion: The uterine fundal pressure is not a pleasant experience for the women in the second stage of labour. Labouring women experienced pain, fear, and anxiety. However, they felt a sense of happiness after delivery. Before the application of UFP during the second stage of labour, midwives should explain to women the process of UFP application and what they can expect to happen; and where possible, and after explaining the procedure, midwives should get written permission before they apply the intervention during labour.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Okafor, Uchenna Benedine
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Labor (Obstetrics) Childbirth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Magister of Curationis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15532 , vital:40424
- Description: Background and Aim: Despite the use of fundal pressure globally, there is a scarcity of information available on how women experience the application of uterine fundal pressure (UFP) during the second stage of labour. The aim of study was to explore the experiences of women concerning UFP application during the second stage of labour. Understanding women’s perception about UFP is important in informing the generation of new ideas to improve on the application of UFP for better outcomes. Methods: This was a qualitative, interpretive, and phenomenological analysis designed to explore the experiences of women regarding the application of UFP during the second stage of labour. Hermeneutics was applied to interpret the participants’ descriptions of their experiences as they tried to make sense of their exposure to UFP; bearing this in mind, the participants’ own interpretation was not distorted. The researcher immersed herself in each transcript, in order to make sense of each participant’s experiences and to gain a sense of what the participant had experienced during UFP application. Each interview was transcribed and analysed independently; and the convergences and divergences of themes were identified without losing the original meaning of each participant’s description before moving on to the subsequent interviews. The target population was women who had had UFP during second stage of labour. A purposive sampling method was used to select three women who were admitted to the DVDHMOU during the research period and who met the inclusion criteria. Information was collected through individual face-to-face interviews and semi-structured interview guide. The principal question was framed as: “Can you please share with me how you felt when the midwives pushed on your tummy to get the baby out”? An audio tape was used to record the interviews, and a notepad was used to make notes of gestures such smiles or other facial expressions. After each interview, the recorded interview was transferred onto a laptop and a file was opened for the interviewee, identified by a pseudonym. The interviews were transcribed verbatim as Word documents. Trustworthiness was maintained by applying the principles of credibility, transferability, dependability and conformability. Ethical approval was granted by the Ethical Committee of the University of Fort Hare. Permission to conduct the study was sought from the Eastern Cape Research Committee and Buffalo City Metropolitan Health District. Informed consent was obtained from the participants prior to data collection. Each interview was analysed separately after completion. Data was analysed using thematic content analysis applicable to interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) studies using six steps: reading and re-reading; initial noting; developing emergent themes; searching for connections across the emergent themes; moving to the next case; and lastly, looking for patterns across cases. Findings: The findings of this study indicated that the informants had feelings of fear, loneliness, worry and tearfulness; but also happiness associated with UFP during second stage of labour. They were also worried and expressed fear and anxiety concerning their infants; and their ability to give birth increased as they get tired in the process of pushing during UFP application. However, seeing their infants for the first time took most of the worries away, and all informants expressed relief when the birthing process was over. They also felt that their birthing experience was a very painful event; and were left alone, and they had not been given anything to drink or eat during labour. Midwives threatened them that their inability to pushing appropriately, could cause the death of their infants, leaving them with feelings of guilt and despair when their babies did not cry directly after birth. The findings demonstrated that midwives did not properly inform women what to expect during the second stage of their labour, whilst the midwives expected birthing mothers to know what was happening to them and how to react. Women in labour therefore depended almost entirely on information received from family members, and went into labour with preconceived ideas about labour pain. Although women do experience pain during the second stage of labour, the application UFP increased their pain. Four main themes emerged from the analysis, which are: perceived severity of UFP pain,emotional/physical reaction to UFP pain, perceptions of UFP and perception of midwives care and treatment. Conclusion: The uterine fundal pressure is not a pleasant experience for the women in the second stage of labour. Labouring women experienced pain, fear, and anxiety. However, they felt a sense of happiness after delivery. Before the application of UFP during the second stage of labour, midwives should explain to women the process of UFP application and what they can expect to happen; and where possible, and after explaining the procedure, midwives should get written permission before they apply the intervention during labour.
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Extraction and characterization of antimicrobial compounds from selected marine invertebrates collected from Phillip's Reef, Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa
- Authors: Kibungu, Cuthbert Wasswa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Invertebrates Bioactive compounds Anti-infective agents
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Microbiology
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11751 , vital:39103
- Description: Introduction: The marine environment is rich in the biodiversity of medically significant invertebrate species such as sponges, ascidians, molluscs and bryozoans. Such a diverse environment is a potential source of a great variety of secondary metabolite production. Research in marine natural product discovery is gaining ground with the development of new therapeutic drugs of antimicrobial potential. Aim: This study seeks to evaluate, and identify bioactive compounds obtained from marine invertebrates collected from Phillip’s Reef in Algoa Bay. Methodology: Marine invertebrates were collected from the Phillip’s Reef in Algoa Bay, Port Elizabeth, at a depth of 12 m and the physichochemical parameters at the site of sample collection were recorded onsite. Sampling was done once over the four seasons in South Africa. Sections of each specimen were sent for identification, and extraction of compounds was done using organic solvents [methanol (95percent), hexane (95percent), petroleum ether (95percent), chloroform (95percent) and ethyl acetate (95percent)]. A ratio of 95percent the respective solvents was achieved by the following (1:19), organic solvent combinations [dichloromethane: methanol (1:1), hexane: chloroform: methanol (1:2:1)] and aqueous solution of water. Solvent optimization was done by measuring the absorbance of S. aureus (ATCC 49476) in Mueller Hinton Broth containing crude extracts at 600 nm. The appropriate solvent was then selected for further extraction of bioactive compounds from the specimens. Antimicrobial activity of the crude extracts was evaluated using the standard agar well diffusion method on test pathogens, namely, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 49476), clostridium difficile (ATCC 9689), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 10145), Candida albicans (ATCC 10231) and Aspergillus fumigatus (ATCC 204305). Different concentrations of the crude extracts were used [100percent, 80percent, 60percent, 40percent and 30percent (v:v)] and the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) were determined. Selected bioactive crude extracts were further evaluated for phytochemicals before being purified by subjecting them to Sephadex-G75 column chromatography, using 75percent ethyl acetate as the mobile phase. Bioactive crude extracts fractions obtained following column chromatography were subjected to Electron Spray Ionization Time of Flight (ESI-TOF) analysis using The Bruker Daltonics maXis compact ESI Quadrupole TOF instrument to detect and identify compounds present. Peak identification was done using the blast software contained in Open Chrom Community Edition (Alder), open source software for chromatography and mass spectrometry spectrum analysis. Results: Sixty-seven different marine invertebrate species were collected over the 4 seasons. A mean temperature of 17.35oC ± 2.06 was recorded over all four seasons with the Autumn exhibiting the highest temperature (20oC). Salinity readings obtained ranged between 35.12 psu and 35.27 psu. A stable mean pH range of 8.08–8.78 was also recorded across all four seasons. Salinity and pH readings conformed to the standards set by the South African Water Quality Guidelines. The Spring season exhibited the highest turbidity of 2.97 NTU compared to other seasons. Ethyl acetate and dichloromethane: methanol (1:1) extracts yielded the best inhibitory results. Approximately 60percent (4/67) of the marine invertebrate specimens showed bioactivity against some of the test pathogens. Both ethyl acetate and dichloromethane methanol crude extracts of S14 and S34 showed a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity against both bacteria and fungi. The C6 ethyl acetate crude extracts were highly active against MRSA, as inhibition zones of 45 mm were observed. MIC at 30percent concentrations was observed for very few crude extracts against the five pathogens. Sixty-three ethyl acetate crude extracts contained phytochemicals while only 35 dichloromethane: methanol crude extracts contained phytochemicals. Neither ethyl acetate and dichloromethane: methanol crude extracts of S34 (Psammopsinia sp. 1) that were biologically active had any phytochemicals. Canadine, Ginkolide A, Apigenin, Amygdalin, 10-hydroxy-Camptothecin, Catechin, Beta-Peltatin and 6 Ethoxy-3(4'-hydroxyphenyl)-4-methylcoumarin were identified in the crude extracts. Conclusion: Marine invertebrate species located at Phillip’s Reef produce compounds with antimicrobial potential. These compounds are biologically active against human pathogenic microorganisms. The best solvent to use for the extraction of these biologically significant metabolites is ethyl acetate, as this study achieved outstanding results from ethyl acetate crude extracts in the form of high zones of inhibition, for example the sponge Ectyonopsis flabellate, which exhibited mean inhibition zones of 45 mm against Aspergillus fumigatus. Similar bioactivity was also observed with Tedania (Tedania) Stylonychaeta against Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus. This is the first study done on some of the marine sponges and ascidians in the Phillip’s Reef, and therefore further evaluation of the purified compounds is necessary in order to obtain the identity of the pure compounds and possibly determine the mechanism of action, and synthesize structural analogues for further studies.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Kibungu, Cuthbert Wasswa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Invertebrates Bioactive compounds Anti-infective agents
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Microbiology
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11751 , vital:39103
- Description: Introduction: The marine environment is rich in the biodiversity of medically significant invertebrate species such as sponges, ascidians, molluscs and bryozoans. Such a diverse environment is a potential source of a great variety of secondary metabolite production. Research in marine natural product discovery is gaining ground with the development of new therapeutic drugs of antimicrobial potential. Aim: This study seeks to evaluate, and identify bioactive compounds obtained from marine invertebrates collected from Phillip’s Reef in Algoa Bay. Methodology: Marine invertebrates were collected from the Phillip’s Reef in Algoa Bay, Port Elizabeth, at a depth of 12 m and the physichochemical parameters at the site of sample collection were recorded onsite. Sampling was done once over the four seasons in South Africa. Sections of each specimen were sent for identification, and extraction of compounds was done using organic solvents [methanol (95percent), hexane (95percent), petroleum ether (95percent), chloroform (95percent) and ethyl acetate (95percent)]. A ratio of 95percent the respective solvents was achieved by the following (1:19), organic solvent combinations [dichloromethane: methanol (1:1), hexane: chloroform: methanol (1:2:1)] and aqueous solution of water. Solvent optimization was done by measuring the absorbance of S. aureus (ATCC 49476) in Mueller Hinton Broth containing crude extracts at 600 nm. The appropriate solvent was then selected for further extraction of bioactive compounds from the specimens. Antimicrobial activity of the crude extracts was evaluated using the standard agar well diffusion method on test pathogens, namely, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 49476), clostridium difficile (ATCC 9689), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 10145), Candida albicans (ATCC 10231) and Aspergillus fumigatus (ATCC 204305). Different concentrations of the crude extracts were used [100percent, 80percent, 60percent, 40percent and 30percent (v:v)] and the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) were determined. Selected bioactive crude extracts were further evaluated for phytochemicals before being purified by subjecting them to Sephadex-G75 column chromatography, using 75percent ethyl acetate as the mobile phase. Bioactive crude extracts fractions obtained following column chromatography were subjected to Electron Spray Ionization Time of Flight (ESI-TOF) analysis using The Bruker Daltonics maXis compact ESI Quadrupole TOF instrument to detect and identify compounds present. Peak identification was done using the blast software contained in Open Chrom Community Edition (Alder), open source software for chromatography and mass spectrometry spectrum analysis. Results: Sixty-seven different marine invertebrate species were collected over the 4 seasons. A mean temperature of 17.35oC ± 2.06 was recorded over all four seasons with the Autumn exhibiting the highest temperature (20oC). Salinity readings obtained ranged between 35.12 psu and 35.27 psu. A stable mean pH range of 8.08–8.78 was also recorded across all four seasons. Salinity and pH readings conformed to the standards set by the South African Water Quality Guidelines. The Spring season exhibited the highest turbidity of 2.97 NTU compared to other seasons. Ethyl acetate and dichloromethane: methanol (1:1) extracts yielded the best inhibitory results. Approximately 60percent (4/67) of the marine invertebrate specimens showed bioactivity against some of the test pathogens. Both ethyl acetate and dichloromethane methanol crude extracts of S14 and S34 showed a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity against both bacteria and fungi. The C6 ethyl acetate crude extracts were highly active against MRSA, as inhibition zones of 45 mm were observed. MIC at 30percent concentrations was observed for very few crude extracts against the five pathogens. Sixty-three ethyl acetate crude extracts contained phytochemicals while only 35 dichloromethane: methanol crude extracts contained phytochemicals. Neither ethyl acetate and dichloromethane: methanol crude extracts of S34 (Psammopsinia sp. 1) that were biologically active had any phytochemicals. Canadine, Ginkolide A, Apigenin, Amygdalin, 10-hydroxy-Camptothecin, Catechin, Beta-Peltatin and 6 Ethoxy-3(4'-hydroxyphenyl)-4-methylcoumarin were identified in the crude extracts. Conclusion: Marine invertebrate species located at Phillip’s Reef produce compounds with antimicrobial potential. These compounds are biologically active against human pathogenic microorganisms. The best solvent to use for the extraction of these biologically significant metabolites is ethyl acetate, as this study achieved outstanding results from ethyl acetate crude extracts in the form of high zones of inhibition, for example the sponge Ectyonopsis flabellate, which exhibited mean inhibition zones of 45 mm against Aspergillus fumigatus. Similar bioactivity was also observed with Tedania (Tedania) Stylonychaeta against Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus. This is the first study done on some of the marine sponges and ascidians in the Phillip’s Reef, and therefore further evaluation of the purified compounds is necessary in order to obtain the identity of the pure compounds and possibly determine the mechanism of action, and synthesize structural analogues for further studies.
- Full Text:
Factors affecting patient perceptions od service delivery in Postmasburg Hospital in the Z.F. McGawu District, Northern Cape Province, South Africa
- Rakumakoe, Jacob Mogapi Chocky
- Authors: Rakumakoe, Jacob Mogapi Chocky
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Public health -- South Africa -- Northern Cape Medical care -- South Africa -- Northern Cape Health services accessibility
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPH
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17805 , vital:41262
- Description: Background: There is a requirement to provide proper and safe quality service to patients, hence a view from patients was deemed important as it can help the hospital to improve services rendered to them. There were two Provincial assessments done on National Core Standards in Postmasburg Hospital (overall scores were 32percent in 2013 and 48percent in 2014) and on both occasions, the Hospital failed to comply with the assessments and the implication were a suspected negative impact on the Hospital service delivery. The repercussions could be that the hospital might not be certified or not funded through National Health Insurance following a national assessment if the status quo remains. Aim: The aim of the study was to describe the factors affecting patients’ perceptions of service delivery in order to inform health policy decisions to improve service delivery. Methodology: A quantitative descriptive design was used to collect data on 133 adult patients admitted for a minimum of three days in the different hospital wards. Participants were administered a structured pre-tested questionnaire to collect data relating to their employment status, the number of hospital admissions and the reason for hospital admission. Results: About 41.4percent of participants were neutral or not sure whether the nurses/doctors came often to the ward where they were admitted. The majority (51.9percent) were neutral or not sure whether the quality of food in the hospital was good; 53.4percent expressed uncertainty concerning the adequacy of benches/chairs in the hospital for patients to sit while waiting to be seen by the health worker; and 55.6percent participants were neural or not sure whether the ward/room had enough space for consulting. Asked whether the hospital was user-friendly to disabled persons, 53.4percent participants were not sure. About 43.6percent participants expressed uncertainty regarding the registration satisfactory nature of the procedures in the hospital; the water cleanliness for patients in the hospital (42.1percent); whether their privacy was respected by all the staff within the hospital (51.9percent); permission to be examined and treated (51.1percent); the nurse/doctor who treated them being polite (53.4percent); and the nurse/doctor who treated them being able to answer all their questions about their illness (56.8percent). On whether they will visit the hospital again, 49.6percent participants were uncertain. The majority (69.7percent) agreed that all prescribed medicine was available in the hospital; the staff explained to them on how to use the medicine/pills (67percent); and they were told on how to store their pills/medication (47percent). Gender, education and employment status of the participants affect exactly one dimension each. Females, those with secondary education and employed were more satisfied on the respective dimensions. Conclusion: Patient involvement is an essential feature in healthcare services. Patients influence outcome quality through compliance, defining the right symptoms and physically experiencing treatment. Patient perceptions and satisfaction with service delivery is a multi-dimensional concept that should be studied by operationalising it within its context. Consequently, a conceptual model to understand and measure patient perception and satisfaction of service delivery and care quality in hospital health care services is proposed.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Rakumakoe, Jacob Mogapi Chocky
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Public health -- South Africa -- Northern Cape Medical care -- South Africa -- Northern Cape Health services accessibility
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPH
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17805 , vital:41262
- Description: Background: There is a requirement to provide proper and safe quality service to patients, hence a view from patients was deemed important as it can help the hospital to improve services rendered to them. There were two Provincial assessments done on National Core Standards in Postmasburg Hospital (overall scores were 32percent in 2013 and 48percent in 2014) and on both occasions, the Hospital failed to comply with the assessments and the implication were a suspected negative impact on the Hospital service delivery. The repercussions could be that the hospital might not be certified or not funded through National Health Insurance following a national assessment if the status quo remains. Aim: The aim of the study was to describe the factors affecting patients’ perceptions of service delivery in order to inform health policy decisions to improve service delivery. Methodology: A quantitative descriptive design was used to collect data on 133 adult patients admitted for a minimum of three days in the different hospital wards. Participants were administered a structured pre-tested questionnaire to collect data relating to their employment status, the number of hospital admissions and the reason for hospital admission. Results: About 41.4percent of participants were neutral or not sure whether the nurses/doctors came often to the ward where they were admitted. The majority (51.9percent) were neutral or not sure whether the quality of food in the hospital was good; 53.4percent expressed uncertainty concerning the adequacy of benches/chairs in the hospital for patients to sit while waiting to be seen by the health worker; and 55.6percent participants were neural or not sure whether the ward/room had enough space for consulting. Asked whether the hospital was user-friendly to disabled persons, 53.4percent participants were not sure. About 43.6percent participants expressed uncertainty regarding the registration satisfactory nature of the procedures in the hospital; the water cleanliness for patients in the hospital (42.1percent); whether their privacy was respected by all the staff within the hospital (51.9percent); permission to be examined and treated (51.1percent); the nurse/doctor who treated them being polite (53.4percent); and the nurse/doctor who treated them being able to answer all their questions about their illness (56.8percent). On whether they will visit the hospital again, 49.6percent participants were uncertain. The majority (69.7percent) agreed that all prescribed medicine was available in the hospital; the staff explained to them on how to use the medicine/pills (67percent); and they were told on how to store their pills/medication (47percent). Gender, education and employment status of the participants affect exactly one dimension each. Females, those with secondary education and employed were more satisfied on the respective dimensions. Conclusion: Patient involvement is an essential feature in healthcare services. Patients influence outcome quality through compliance, defining the right symptoms and physically experiencing treatment. Patient perceptions and satisfaction with service delivery is a multi-dimensional concept that should be studied by operationalising it within its context. Consequently, a conceptual model to understand and measure patient perception and satisfaction of service delivery and care quality in hospital health care services is proposed.
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Factors affecting teachers' attitude towards the implementation of inclusive education
- Authors: Zukani, Ncediswa Millicent
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Inclusive education Mainstreaming in education -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , (MEd) Education
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10094 , vital:35336
- Description: This study is a quantitative study done in selected schools on teachers’ attitudes towards the implementation of inclusive education. Despite efforts to ensure quality education for all learners through inclusive education in South Africa, indications are that many learners, especially those who experience barriers to learning, are still excluded from full access to quality and equitable education opportunities in mainstream schools. Research has shown that the success of inclusive education depends upon teachers’ attitudes. It also shows that attitudes can hinder the progress of the implementation of inclusive education. The paper draws on White Paper 6 which speaks to inclusion of children with disabilities in schools. As the legislative and policy framework for the implementation of inclusive education, White Paper 6 states that “a public school must admit learners and serve their educational requirements without unfairly discriminating in any way”. The study is framed by Ajzen’s theory of planned behaviour, which suggests that an attitude towards behaviour is influenced by past experiences, previous knowledge and newly acquired knowledge. The study reflects findings from a questionnaire circulated to 75 teachers at three selected high schools, using descriptive statistics to analyse the data. Findings showed that there is no relationship between attitudes based on factors, including class size, years of experience, inadequate resource, and lack of adequate training but the main negative influence was found to be lack of support in implementing inclusive education. The conclusion is that there is no relationship between attitudes and the factors identified except lack of support. This research concludes with recommendations to address teachers’ attitudes in order to facilitate the inclusion of learners with special needs in the classroom.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Zukani, Ncediswa Millicent
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Inclusive education Mainstreaming in education -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , (MEd) Education
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10094 , vital:35336
- Description: This study is a quantitative study done in selected schools on teachers’ attitudes towards the implementation of inclusive education. Despite efforts to ensure quality education for all learners through inclusive education in South Africa, indications are that many learners, especially those who experience barriers to learning, are still excluded from full access to quality and equitable education opportunities in mainstream schools. Research has shown that the success of inclusive education depends upon teachers’ attitudes. It also shows that attitudes can hinder the progress of the implementation of inclusive education. The paper draws on White Paper 6 which speaks to inclusion of children with disabilities in schools. As the legislative and policy framework for the implementation of inclusive education, White Paper 6 states that “a public school must admit learners and serve their educational requirements without unfairly discriminating in any way”. The study is framed by Ajzen’s theory of planned behaviour, which suggests that an attitude towards behaviour is influenced by past experiences, previous knowledge and newly acquired knowledge. The study reflects findings from a questionnaire circulated to 75 teachers at three selected high schools, using descriptive statistics to analyse the data. Findings showed that there is no relationship between attitudes based on factors, including class size, years of experience, inadequate resource, and lack of adequate training but the main negative influence was found to be lack of support in implementing inclusive education. The conclusion is that there is no relationship between attitudes and the factors identified except lack of support. This research concludes with recommendations to address teachers’ attitudes in order to facilitate the inclusion of learners with special needs in the classroom.
- Full Text:
Factors contributing to non-adherence in HIV positive patients on antiretroviral treatment in primary health care facilities, East London, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Petse, Siphokazi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Antiretroviral therapy -- Eastern Cape -- South Africa , Patient compliance , HIV-positive persons -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9734 , vital:34905
- Description: Aim: South Africa is faced with the major challenge of ensuring and sustaining the quality of services, including preventing and managing side- effects, and improving drug adherence, which are all critical, for the success of a comprehensive HIV programme. The aim of this study was to examine the underlying contributing factors to antiretroviral treatment adherence among HIV positive patients attending primary health care facilities in East London. Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study involving 371 HIV positive patients on antiretroviral treatment in xx primary health care facilities in East London, South Africa. The study utilized a self- designed structured questionnaire with both open- ended and closed ended questions, divided into socio-demographic, socio- economic, level of understanding and knowledge on HIV, quality of care and waiting times. Results: About 64 percent of the participants had a good knowledge of HIV, 25 percent had an average knowledge with few participants having poor knowledge of HIV (11 percent). Majority (92.2 percent) were counselled before starting ARVs treatment. Majority of participants (70.7 percent) do have money for transport to come to the clinic, while 53.1 percent experienced side effects. The majority (70 percent) of the participants were non-adherents. Concerning viral load distribution, 52 percent were undetectable, 26 percent unsuppressed and 22 percent suppressed. Marital status (married) (p=0.005), having no formal education (p=0.035), being Christian (p=0.007), alcohol consumption (p= 0.021) and viral load suppression had significant association with non-adherence to ARV treatment among participants. After adjusting for confounders, only non-Christians and unsuppressed viral loads were the independent predictors of non-adherence. Conclusion: The main contributing factors to ART non-adherence among participants on ARVs were marital status, level of education, religion, and Christians were more adherent to the treatment than non-Christians. Alcohol consumption also contributed to non-adherence and viral load. Adherence counseling should be done on each and every visit to remind the participants on the importance of taking their treatment. These factors need to be addressed to improve adherence to the treatment, decrease the virus in the blood (viral load) and improve their health in general.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Petse, Siphokazi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Antiretroviral therapy -- Eastern Cape -- South Africa , Patient compliance , HIV-positive persons -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9734 , vital:34905
- Description: Aim: South Africa is faced with the major challenge of ensuring and sustaining the quality of services, including preventing and managing side- effects, and improving drug adherence, which are all critical, for the success of a comprehensive HIV programme. The aim of this study was to examine the underlying contributing factors to antiretroviral treatment adherence among HIV positive patients attending primary health care facilities in East London. Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study involving 371 HIV positive patients on antiretroviral treatment in xx primary health care facilities in East London, South Africa. The study utilized a self- designed structured questionnaire with both open- ended and closed ended questions, divided into socio-demographic, socio- economic, level of understanding and knowledge on HIV, quality of care and waiting times. Results: About 64 percent of the participants had a good knowledge of HIV, 25 percent had an average knowledge with few participants having poor knowledge of HIV (11 percent). Majority (92.2 percent) were counselled before starting ARVs treatment. Majority of participants (70.7 percent) do have money for transport to come to the clinic, while 53.1 percent experienced side effects. The majority (70 percent) of the participants were non-adherents. Concerning viral load distribution, 52 percent were undetectable, 26 percent unsuppressed and 22 percent suppressed. Marital status (married) (p=0.005), having no formal education (p=0.035), being Christian (p=0.007), alcohol consumption (p= 0.021) and viral load suppression had significant association with non-adherence to ARV treatment among participants. After adjusting for confounders, only non-Christians and unsuppressed viral loads were the independent predictors of non-adherence. Conclusion: The main contributing factors to ART non-adherence among participants on ARVs were marital status, level of education, religion, and Christians were more adherent to the treatment than non-Christians. Alcohol consumption also contributed to non-adherence and viral load. Adherence counseling should be done on each and every visit to remind the participants on the importance of taking their treatment. These factors need to be addressed to improve adherence to the treatment, decrease the virus in the blood (viral load) and improve their health in general.
- Full Text: