Microbiological analyses of beef slaughtering process and meat safety knowledge of handlers at selected high and low thoughput abattoirs
- Authors: Nyamakwere, Faith
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Slaughtering and slaughter-houses -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Meat industry and trade -- Quality control Beef -- Quality -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2238 , vital:27712
- Description: The objective of the study was to evaluate meat hygiene practices among meat handlers and microbiological analysis of beef carcasses, slaughtermen hands, equipment and water from low throughput (LTA) and high throughput (HTA) abattoirs in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. In stage one of the study, the level of knowledge, practices and attitudes towards meat safety and personal hygiene of slaughtermen were assessed. Forty workers directly involve in beef cattle slaughtering process were surveyed. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, it contained questions on some of the most important meat safety cues such as knowledge, attitudes, personal hygiene and handling practices. Cross tabulation and Chi-square Test of Association were performed to examine the relationships between the demographic information and the knowledge regarding meat safety using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22. Overall, a significant adherence to basic hygiene practices and a satisfactory level of knowledge were observed. Workers from a HTA yielded comparatively better statistically significant scores. Moreover, knowledge and practices of respondents were significantly associated (P<0.05) due to educational level and professional training. The second stage of the study involved evaluating the level to which cattle carcass, equipment, slaughtermen hands and water were contaminated with Enterobacteriaceae, Salmonella, Escherichia coli and aerobic colony counts (ACC) at different stages during the slaughter process (skinning, evisceration, carcass slitting, inspection, washing and packing). Cattle carcasses were sampled at four sites (rump, neck, flank and brisket) from a LTA (n= 240) and HTA (n= 384) abattoirs. Using conventional biochemical tests, HTA yielded significantly (P<0.05) higher ACC (5.2 log CFU/cm2), E. coli (2.6 log CFU/cm2) and Enterobacteriaceae (2.9 log CFU/cm2) carcass mean scores than LTA after skinning and evisceration. Specific abattoir hygiene differences were noted from washed and chilled carcasses. Salmonella was not detected across all sampled slaughter process stages. In addition, the equipment had bacterial load ranging from 10 to 4 CFU/cm2 for LTA, whereas in HTA this was found to be 7 to 3 CFU/cm2. The bacterial counts for slaughtermen hands were estimated to be 15 to 8 CFU/cm2 in HTA and 10 to 5 CFU/cm2 in LTA. Overall, slaughtermen hands and equipment in the dirty area (skinning and evisceration) yielded more bacterial counts compared to those in the clean area (slitting, inspection, washing and packing) from both abattoirs. For all the sampled carcasses, equipment and slaughtermen hands, HTA yielded comparatively higher (P<0.05) bacterial counts than the LTA. Although the results showed a significant adherence to basic hygiene practices, some aspects such as routine medical examination, health certificates and professional training of slaughtermen still need to be improved. Therefore, these findings show that slaughtermen, equipment and water can be sources of contamination during the slaughter process.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Multi linear regression-based modeling and performance monitoring of flat plate solar collector outlet temperature in Alice, South Africa
- Authors: Ndlovu, Nothando
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Solar collectors Solar water heaters
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12676 , vital:39298
- Description: In a period of rapidly increasing energy demand, the exploitation of abundantly available solar energy is imperative. Temperate climates like South Africa show good potential for utilizing solar-driven technologies such as solar water heaters. These systems offer an attractive alternative over conventional water geysers as a means to supply hot water for residential use. In South Africa, the solar water heater industry is growing rapidly as the government offers incentives manufactures and consumers. This necessitates the determination of performance of these systems through experimental analysis as well as performance prediction. This study evaluated the summer and winter performance of a flat plate, thermosyphon solar water heater under climatic conditions encountered in Alice, South Africa by considering the collector outlet temperature. The performance and weather data obtained were used to develop a multi linear regression (MLR) model for each season. MLR is a simple and easily applicable modelling approach which uses a set of input and output data to determine the model coefficients of a linear relation of two or more variables. The collector outlet temperature was correlated with solar radiation, ambient temperature, relative humidity, and collector inlet temperature since these variables have a direct impact on the collector temperature rise. Results from the performance showed that the collector performs well, attaining temperatures up to 87.2oC during the summer season and 70oC during winter season. The summer and winter percentage mean absolute error for the whole monitoring period were 4.07 percent and 6.2 percent respectively which indicate that MLR can be successfully applied to predict collector outlet temperatures in both seasons.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Ni(II) and Pb(II) dithiocarbamate complexes as precursors for the synthesis of HDA-capped NiS and PbS nanoparticles
- Authors: Chintso, Thobani
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Chemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11349 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1020201
- Description: Ni(II) and Pb(II) dithiocarbamate complexes were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, UV-Vis, FTIR and TGA and some of the Ni(II) complexes and one Pb(II) were further analyzed by 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR spectroscopy. Generally all the dithiocarbamate ligands are soluble in water while the complexes were soluble mostly in solvents such as chloroform, toluene, DMSO and DCM. Based on the elemental analysis, the dithiocarbamate complexes are formulated as four coordinate (tetrahedral or square planar) compounds. However, the FTIR showed that each of the dithiocarbamate ligands acted as bidentate ligand through two sulfur atoms. The TGA of the most complexes showed one major decomposition step to give respective metal sulfide above 200 oC. In this research project, dithiocarbamate complexes were used as single source precursor for the synthesis of metal sulfide nanoparticles. We studied the optical and structural properties of metal sulfide nanoparticles using UV-Vis, photoluminescence (PL), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The absorption spectra of the metal sulfide nanoparticles are blue shifted in respect to bulk material and they also showed broad emission. The XRD of the NiS nanoparticles were indexed to the cubic and rhombohedral phase, with crystallite sizes of 15 - 18 nm. The XRD of PbS nanoparticles were indexed to the face centered cubic and cubic rock salts, with the crystallite sizes 12 - 18 nm. The TEM images of the metal sulfide nanoparticles showed particles with spherical and rectangular shapes with crystallite sizes 4 - 35 nm.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Nutritional value and cultivation requirements of Cleome Gynandra: a wild vegetable growing in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Sowunmi, Linda Ifeanyichukwu
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Ethnobotany -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Vegetables -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Nutrition -- South Africa -- Evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2600 , vital:27907
- Description: South Africa has wide ranges of plants among which are leafy vegetables growing in the wild. These wild vegetables have been reported to have high nutritive and medicinal potentials. Yet, there is still high prevalence of malnutrition and micronutrients deficiencies among the low income bracket of the population. Effective utilization of wild vegetables has been proposed as part of the solutions to address the problem of dietary deficiencies among the populace. Their importance is mainly as relish to accompany and complement starch based diets. They are also known to serve as supplements for food which have the potential to improve the health status of its consumers in many rural communities. Cleome gynandra L. (Capparaceae) is one of the underutilized species mentioned during asurvey conducted in Nkonkobe municipality of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The plant is an erect annual herb with alternate, palmately compound leaves and its petals are white, pink or lilac. It grows as a weed in this part of the Province and is usually gathered from the wild for food and medicine. It is commonly found on wastes land, road sides and on grass lands. Therefore, this research work was designed to contribute to the possible domestication of this wild vegetable in order to explore the nutritive and therapeutic potentials which would broaden the food base in the Eastern Cape Province. The ultra-micromorphological features of plants have become an essential tool in proper identification and authentication of several plant species. In the light of this, the micromorphology of Cleome gynandra was examined to reveal the micro-morphological characters of the plantand to determine if micro and macro mineral elements are present using energy dispersive x-rays. The present study revealed the epidermal cells of the leaves to be asymmetric in shape with undulating cell walls having four subsidiary cells around the stomata. The leaves have anomocyctic stomata which are more distributed in the abaxial surface than the adaxial surface. The mean length and width of the guard cells in the abaxial surface are 0.09 ± 0.01 mm and 0.08 ± 0.01 mm respectively while that of adaxial surface are 0.1± 0.01 mm and 0.07 ± 0.01 mm respectively. The energy dispersive x-rays (EDXS) micro-analysis of the leaf revealed the presence of phosphorus, manganese, iron, calcium, sodium, magnesium, potassium and zinc as the major constituents of the crystal deposits present in the stomata pores and the mesophyll. C. gynandra was collected from the wild and analysed for its mineral and proximatecomposition using standard analytical methods. The plant showed high levels of sodium, iron, zinc, calcium and potassium while many other macro and micro minerals were moderately present. Amongst the proximate factors investigated, moisture content was found to be 82.1% while crude fibre and protein contents were 39.9 percent and 31.03 percent respectively. Vitamin C was also high (345.3 mg/100g). The anti-nutrients compositions revealed low concentrations of oxalate (7.4 ± 0.4) and phytate (0.6 ± 0.0) mg/100g. The study revealed high nutritive value of the species growing naturally from the wild. Interest in the phenolic compounds has greatly increased recently because these compounds have been implicated in suppressing the risk of degenerative diseases in humans. The pharmacological properties of plants may be related to their antioxidant capacities and hence there was need to investigate the antioxidant potential using aqueous, ethanolic and acetone extracts of different parts of C. gynandra. The quantities of phenols, flavonoids and flavonols were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in both aqueous and ethanol extracts of the leaf while the concentration of proanthocyanidins was higher in the aqueous stem extract compared to other plant parts. The aqueous extract of the different parts exhibited better ABTS, reducing power and NO radical scavenging abilities than ethanol extract.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Oversight for accountable governance in selected municipalities in the Eastern Cape province
- Authors: Gashi, Kayaletu
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Political participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Political corruption -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1973 , vital:27589
- Description: There is a surge in service delivery protests and a litany of negative reports on
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- Date Issued: 2015
Participation and economic empowerment of the youth in resettlement areas in Zimbabwe: the case of the agricultural sector in Mutare district
- Authors: Mushunje,Fungai
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Rural development -- Zimbabwe Community development -- Zimbabwe Agricultural development projects -- Zimbabwe Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sci
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1568 , vital:27471
- Description: This study sought to probe the exclusion of young people from the land distribution process and therefore, overlooking their economic empowerment and development. The focus was on economic empowerment of the youth to participate meaningfully or undertake agricultural initiatives in the resettlement areas of Mutare district in Zimbabwe; youths’ ownership and control of economic assets. The data was gathered using a case study research design with the qualitative method being the main research approach.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Perceptions of indigenous people regarding mental illness at Cacadu District in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
- Authors: Tilolo, Lwazi Romeo
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Indigenous peoples -- Mental health -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Cultural psychiatry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Healers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Ethnopsychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2677 , vital:27983
- Description: Indigenous people tend to consult traditional healers when a family member manifests change in behaviour, whilst conventional treatment disregards spirituality when preserving mental health. The aim of the study was to explore the perceptions of indigenous people and the role of traditional healers in the management of mentally ill persons within the Cacadu District in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study has adopted a qualitative approach which was exploratory and descriptive in nature. The sample consisted of nine relatives of mental health care users (MHCUs) and six traditional healers. Ethical principles were also taken into consideration by the researcher during the process of conducting the study. Data were collected from two strata, namely, relatives of the MHCUs and the traditional healers and an interview guide was used to conduct in-depth face-to-face interviews. Data were analysed using Tesch’s method of data analysis. Four themes emerged from the data categories and sub categories were identified. According to the themes participants indicated the negative impact of mental illness; as a result they portrayed great desperation regarding the means of accessing a cure for mental illness. Some participants showed insufficient knowledge regarding mental illness and had different perceptions and beliefs regarding the origin of mental illness. Available literature was used to emphasise and support the views that were expressed by both traditional healers and relatives of MHCUs. It has been highlighted from this study that indigenous people of Cacadu District view mental illness as spiritual in origin but they include Western medication for the benefit of the mentally ill. In addition, the relatives of the MHCUs highlighted the economic burden as the major problem that results from mental illness.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Phytochemical analysis and antibacterial properties of aqueous and ethanol extracts of Brachylaena elliptica (Thurb.) dc. and Brachylaena ilicifolia (Lam.) Phill & Schweick
- Authors: Sagbo, Idowu Jonas
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Medicinal plants , Traditional medicine , Herbs -- Therapeutic use
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Biochemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11297 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021289 , Medicinal plants , Traditional medicine , Herbs -- Therapeutic use
- Description: Resistance of human pathogenic bacterial strains results in selective pressure against known antibiotic. However, plant derived compounds that possess antibacterial potential are currently being investigated for treatment of wound infections in diabetic patients as they are inexpensive and non-toxic. Hence, this dissertation was designed to evaluate two medicinal plants (Brachylaena elliptica and Brachylaena ilicifolia) traditionally used in the treatment of various diseases such as diabetes, and its secondary complications in diabetic patients. The in vitro antioxidant activity of both plants were evaluated using DPPH (1, 1-diphenylhydrazl), ferric reducing power, ABTS (2, 2’-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid), NO (nitric oxide) and H2O2 (hydrogen peroxide) techniques. The antibacterial test and Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined by agar dilution method against 5 bacteria strains (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogene, Proteus vulgaris and Proteus mirabilis) infecting wounds in diabetic patients using amoxicillin and ciprofloxacin as positive control. The phytochemical analyses were assessed using standard published methods. Identification of bioactive components in essential oils of both plants were assessed using GCMS. The aqueous and ethanol extracts of both plants were also evaluated to identify bioactive components using LC-MS. The results of the phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of phenols, tannins, flavanoids, flavanols, proanthocyanidins, saponins and alkaloids in both plants. Both plants indicated strong antioxidant activities which might be due to the presence of bioactive compounds. The aqueous and ethanol leaf extracts of both plants demonstrated appreciable broad spectrum activities against these wound pathogens with MIC ranging between 5 and 0.3 mg/ml. The GC-MS analysis of the essential oils of both plants revealed the presence of monoterpenes, oxygenated sesquiterpenes, phenolics and esters. The LC-MS analysis of the aqueous and ethanol leaf extracts of both plants showed that both plants are rich in alkaloids, terpenes, terpenoids, monoterpernoids, and flavanoids. Conclusively, this study has partially justified the ethnomedicinal use of B. elliptica and B.licifolia leaves for the treatment of various diseases, including diabetes and wound infections caused by bacteria in diabetic patients. These may be attributed to the presence of antioxidant compound such as phenols, flavanoids, saponins, tannins, alkaloids and other phytochemical compounds.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Phytochemical, antibacterial and pharmacological investigations of Clausena Anisata (Wild). Hook : bone of the medicinal plants used for traditional treatment of "tuberculosis" in Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Lawal, Ibraheem O
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Traditional medicine--South Africa--Eastern Cape Tuberculosis--Treatment--South Africa--Eastern Cape Mycobacterial diseases--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Ethnobotany
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11828 , vital:39110
- Description: Clausena anisata (Willd) Hook, is the only species out of the 15 species of the genus found in the African continent and is regarded as a threatened species in this area of Southern region of Africa. Its distribution spread across Africa to south-east Asia. C. anisata has a wide range of ethno-pharmacological importance. Despite the numerous studies on the pharmacological profile of the plant, there is still dearth of scientific literature on the foliar micro-morphology of this valuable medicinal plant. The morphorlogical structure of the leaves of C. anisata was examined under Light Microscopy (LM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive x-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) following standard procedures. LM indicates the types of stomata of the leaves (amphistomatic). SEM revealed the presence of the whip like trichomes with its uniqueness to the plants. EDS showed the chemical composition of the foliar appendages which indicated the presence Ca, Mg, S, and Fe. The indication of the elements could probably be helpful in the herbal drug regulation based on the mineral composition and in return reduced herbal drug toxicity.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Prevalence and antibiogram of some swine associated Shiga toxin producing Escherichia coli Serogroups and Salmonella species in Nkonkobe Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Iwu, Chinwe Juliana
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Escherichia coli -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Salmonella infections -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water -- Pollution -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Escherichia coli infections -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water quality management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Microbiology)
- Identifier: vital:11294 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021273 , Escherichia coli -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Salmonella infections -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water -- Pollution -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Escherichia coli infections -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water quality management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Gastrointestinal illnesses have continually become a global public health issue. Exposure to zoonotic food borne pathogens such as Salmonella and diarrhoegenic E. coli either by direct or indirect contact through the consumption of food producing animals is likely an important mode of infection to humans. More so, the use of antibiotics in farm animals similar to those used in humans can select for resistance in bacteria frequently harboured by them. These resistant strains can be passed on to humans through contaminated meat products and water leading to resistant infections with consequences such as prolonged illnesses, treatment failures, and increased morbidity and mortality. In animals, these can lead to reduced productivity. Monitoring the level of resistance among bacteria from animal isolates will help in generating data that could be used to create awareness of their presence in the environment and aid in preventing a potential epidemic in the community. In this study, we investigated the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance profile of Escherichia coli serogroups and Salmonella species in faecal samples collected from pigs in Nkonkobe Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa between April – July, 2014. A total of 310 presumptive Shiga toxin producing Escherichia coli (STEC) were confirmed as E. coli spp using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique by amplification of the uidA gene, out of which 179 (58%) were confirmed positive. Approximately, serogrougs O157:H7, O145 and O26 made up 24% (n=43), 8% (n=14) and 20% (n=35) of the E. coli population respectively. Only E. coli O26 was positive for stx2 gene in 31% of the isolates harbouring the gene, while the other serogroups were non-pathogenic. Susceptibility of the isolates to 18 antibiotics was carried out in vitro by the standardized agar disc-diffusion method. All the isolates were susceptible to imipenem. Similarly, a relatively high susceptibility was observed in norfloxacin (83-100%), ciprofloxacin (63-100%), gentamycin (77-100%), and chloramphenicol (77-100%). However, all the isolates were resistant to tetracycline and its long acting counterpart oxytetracycline. Resistances observed against other antimicrobials are as follows: ampicillin (84-91%), streptomycin (14-100%), erythromycin (91-100%), ceftazidime (35%). Multiple antimicrobial resistance patterns and indices ranged from 3 to 12 and 0.2 to 0.7 to respectively. Genes encoding resistances to ampicillin (ampC), streptomycin (strA) and tetracycline (tetA) were frequently detected in 50-100%, 22-29% and 40-86% of the resistant isolates respectively. In the other arm of the dissertation, two hundred and fifty eight presumptive isolates of Salmonella were recovered from the faecal samples of pigs. Specific primers targeting serogroups A, B, C1, C2, and D were used to delineate the isolates into different serogroups using PCR. Only serogroup A (n=48) was detected. These isolates were examined for antimicrobial susceptibility by disc diffusion method using 18 antibiotics. The results showed that a large proportion of the isolates were resistant to tetracycline (100%), oxytetracycline (100%), ampicillin (75%), sulphamethoxazole/trimethoprim (75%) and streptomycin (75%). Majority of the isolates exhibited multidrug resistances with the predominant multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) phenotype being against eleven antibiotics. A high multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index in a range of 0.3- 0.6 was observed. The incidence of genes encoding resistance against tetracycline (tetA), streptomycin (stra), and ampicillin (ampC) were 54%, 44% and 61% respectively. These findings reveal that pigs within the Nkonkobe Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province could harbour Shiga toxins and multidrug resistant serogroups of E. coli as well as resistant Salmonella which could be transmitted to humans through the food chain. To ensure public health safety, continuous monitoring and sufficient sanitation in swine industries must be ensured.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Primiparous and multiparous cow behaviour of friesland, jersey and cross-bred cows around calving time and during milking
- Authors: Mpisana, Zuko
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Dairy products--Analysis Jersey cattle Milk yield
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Animal Science
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16113 , vital:40665
- Description: The objective of the study was to determine effect of behaviour of primiparous and multiparous Friesland, Jersey and Cross-bred cows around calving time and during milking of first lactating cows in a pasture-based dairy system. The trial was conducted at the Fort Hare dairy farm. All pregnant primiparous and multiparous were kept in a maternity paddock. Five observers monitored the cows from the onset of parturition until the calf was fully expelled using digital stop watches. The behavioural responses of the cows during parturition (frequency and duration of lying, standing and walking bouts; calf licking; suckling) and milking (avoidance distance scores (ADS), entrance score, (ES), exit speed (ES), feeding score (FS), and the occurrence of stepping (STP) and kicking (KCK)) were determined on eighty consecutive days. The behavioural attributes were analysed using generalised linear model of procedure of SAS (2003). One hundred and twenty pregnant cows were used in the study, comprising of forty cows per genotype in different parities (A-primiparous, B- 2 to 4, C-5 to 6 and D-7 to 8) and kept in a maternity paddock. Five observers monitored cows from the onset of parturition until the calf was fully expelled. There were differences (P < 0.05) observed on the behavioural patterns around the time of calving. Jersey multiparous cows spent (P < 0.05) significantly most of their time (20.50±3.10) in lying position as compared to the other genotypes. The Jersey genotype also spent most (P < 0.05) of their time (48.00±0.34) in a standing position during calving period. Friesland cows spent (P < 0.05) most of their time (12.00±1.19) exhibiting either stepping or walking attributes as compared to Jersey and Crossbred cows. The Jersey genotype spent significantly (P < 0.05) more time (123.00±10.43) expelling calves compared to the other genotypes. Crossbred cows had the highest avoidance distance (14percent) scores compared to other genotypes and the Friesland cows had the lowest distance scores. The occurrence of kicking was significantly (P < 0.05) higher for the Friesland cows (57.3percent) compared to Jersey (23.2percent) and Crossbred cows (19.6percent). The Friesland cows had the highest (P < 0.05) frequency (36.2percent) feeding score compared to Jersey and Crossbred cows. The Jersey cows had the highest (60.2percent) exit speed compared to other genotypes. The occurrence of stepping was higher for the Friesland cows (53.9percent). The Friesland cows had the highest (P < 0.05) daily milk yield compared to Jersey and Crossbred cows. The present study revealed that behavioural activities of dairy cattle during parturition differed according to genotype and parity and the behavioural response of first lactating cows differ according to genotype during milking.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Reading strategies employed by grade 10 english first additional language teachers to elicit reading culture in the King williams town education district
- Authors: Gcilishe, Tantaswa Brenda
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Reading-skill strategies Reading (Secondary) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape English language
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6059 , vital:29487
- Description: This study sought to explore strategies used to elicit a reading culture among secondary schools learners. The importance of reading cannot be over emphasised as it is used as an index to how well an education system is, in the delivering of its mandate of creating a reading nation. In view of this, the South African government has developed a range of legislation and policies that shape reading and literacy in the country. Theoretically, the study is built around the socio-cultural theory which is conceptualised by different reading models. Methodologically, it is premised within the interpretive paradigm based on a case study design. In view of this, the study made use of the Qualitative research method with the principal tools for data collection being; interviews, focus group discussion and, observation. The main findings of the study revealed that using English as the medium of instruction in South Africa is not such a good idea. In this regards, teachers need some form of training to cope with the use of English (a first additional language to both teachers and learners) is a problem in itself. The study recommends that the government needs a) to provide funding to ascertain that resources needed to facilitate reading are available, b) the government should also play the role of monitoring and evaluation to make sure that the policies are kept in place and, c) There is need for in-service training for teachers to make sure that they are living up to expectation. There would be tremendous growth in socio-economic terms with a love for reading being fostered among all members of the school and community.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Recycled water usage in peri-urban agriculture : an examination of its socio-economic and environmental benefits in Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Makinana, Anazo
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Water reuse -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Water reuse -- Economic aspects -- South Africa Water reuse -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5719 , vital:29367
- Description: This study examines whether recycled water (specifically grey water) is used in peri-urban agriculture in greater Port Elizabeth. It also investigates the socio-economic as well as environmental benefits of using recycled water in peri-urban agriculture. Community perceptions and narratives about the use of recycled water for farming purposes were also investigated. Study respondents were purposively selected from Motherwell and Uitenhage in Port Elizabeth. A qualitative research methodology and methods were used. This involved using purposive sampling to sample, select and interview 22 respondents and eight key informants. All the respondents were interviewed using in-depth semi-structured interviews. The study found that while many respondents have heard about water recycling, they are however not using recycled grey water for their peri-urban farming activities. Instead, peri-urban farmers continue to use water supplied by the municipality. Recycled water is mostly used for watering sport fields around Port Elizabeth. This continued usage of municipal water (instead of recycled water) is not only costly to the municipality but the individual farmers as well. The respondents were however aware of the benefits of using recycled water. These include economic (money saved from not paying irrigation water bills), environmental (nutrient contents found in recycled water) and socio-economic (conserving fresh available for use in other community purposes). The study recommends that the Nelson Mandela Metro Municipality should do more (through educational and environmental campaigns) to encourage peri-urban farmers to use recycled water in their farming activities.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Regional differentiation of three goatfishes (Parupeneus Spp.) within the Western Indian Ocean
- Authors: Springbok–Njokweni, Nosiphiwo
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Marine fishes -- South Africa , Mitochondrial DNA -- South Africa , Mullidae -- South Africa , Biogeography -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Zoology)
- Identifier: vital:11798 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1020262 , Marine fishes -- South Africa , Mitochondrial DNA -- South Africa , Mullidae -- South Africa , Biogeography -- South Africa
- Description: Goatfishes inhabit inshore reefs and corals and are commercially important across their distribution in the Western Indian Ocean (WIO). The biogeography of these species in the WIO has not been explored with regards to their levels of diversity and relationships among regions. The genetic connectivity and differentiation of three goatfishes of the genus Parupeneus (P. barberinus, P. macronemus and P. rubescens) was studied using two mitochondrial genes (ND2 and 16S rRNA) and one nuclear gene (RAG1) using specimens from East and southern Africa, islands around the Mascarene plateau, Oman, Maldives and the Red Sea. Haplotype diversities, networks and AMOVA were used to measure genetic variance among localities and defined regional groups. There were high haplotype (HD > 0.9) and low nucleotide diversities (< 0.006) among all species for all gene regions, suggesting high levels of genetic differentiation among different areas, except for the mtDNA 16S data for P. macronemus and P. rubescens. For all three species, the FST population pairwise values revealed significant differentiation in all datasets for most population pairwise comparisons with the Maldives and genetic connectivity with haplotypes being shared among other localities. The 16S and RAG1, AMOVA for P. barberinus revealed a significant (P < 0.05) strong genetic structure among groups, for example P = 0.00 was estimated in the 16S data for four groups (the Maldives, WIO islands, Kenya and eastern mainland). This study found evidence for regional differentiation within the WIO for these three species supporting the presence of genetic breaks among areas. This differentiation could be either due to the historical isolation among areas or due to geographic and oceanic barriers such as the Mascarene Plateau and the Agulhas Current eddies in the Mozambique Channel. The effects of oceanographic features and physical barriers in the species distribution range and the dispersal potential based on the life history features of the species can have an influence on the genetic structuring of a population. It is also important to note that the length of the pelagic larval phase is just one factor affecting dispersal in marine organisms that can also explain the difference in genetic population structure. Unfortunately there is no specific information on the larval dispersal of these three goatfish. Therefore, studies are needed to be conducted on the specific biology and life history strategies of each Parupeneus species. These results suggest the importance of other factors, such as currents, and larval retention that may cause strong differentiation. These factors should also be considered when observing larval dispersal and its effect on population genetic structure. This study support the hypotheses that physical factors, processes (geographic barriers and oceanographic characteristics) and life history parameters need to be studied to understand the genetic differentiation of these Parupeneus reef fishes.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Retaining learners in primary schools in the East London education district: policy implications
- Authors: Kumanda,Nomaroma
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Learning ability Dropouts -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6114 , vital:29492
- Description: The purpose of this study is to investigate different ways of retaining learners in teaching and learning practices in grade seven classrooms. The study was conducted in two East London Primary schools. The research took the form of a qualitative interpretive case study focusing on a study sample. The qualitative methods allowed the researcher to gather data in order to describe and interpret teachers‟ knowledge in retaining learners in grade seven classrooms. This critical analysis explored the literature relating to retention of learners if they fail to meet proficiency requirements. The research made use of a qualitative, mixedmethod, and meta-analysis techniques to collect and analyse the data. The study is systematically analysed and categorized according to three themes: retention and social promotion policy effectiveness, causes of dropping out and identification of curriculum and program options. The findings suggested that retaining learners may have some positive effects in the short-term, but that may diminish with time and age. Early detection of academic deficiencies by teachers can possibly prevent negative psychological effects and dropping out due to retention. Student retention in public schools is comparatively poor in traditional education and in some contexts, embarrassingly low. Literature on the subject of student retention in public schools indicates that even when interventions are designed and undertaken to improve student‟s retention, they tend to fall short. The main aim of this dissertation therefore is to better understand and measure learners‟ attitudes and perceptions towards the effectiveness of learning. In view of this, it is hoped that the study can determine how these strategies can be used optimally to improve student retention at lower grades in the East London District in Eastern Cape. The findings at its best indicate what possible method that could be used to improve retention of learners, by enhancing their teaching/ learning and improving the efficacy of Eastern Cape school‟s existing student support system.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Risk factors associated with developing asthma and tuberculosis: a case study of a hospital, Lagos Nigeria
- Authors: Adeniji, Tolulope Olubunmi
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Asthma -- Nigeria -- Epidemiology , Diseases -- Risk factors -- Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13216 , vital:39616
- Description: The purpose of the study is to assess risk factors associated with developing asthma and tuberculosis. Methodology: A quantitative study was conducted on 133 randomly selected tuberculosis respondents, 91 of whom were suffering from TB at the time of the study. 120 respondents were also selected randomly for asthma of which 82 were asthmatic. Data were collected by using a self-structured questionnaire. The statistical analysis was done with the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS, version 18) using the descriptive statistics and logistic regression model. Results: Findings from the study show that a large percentage of the participants for both diseases were male, and the carriers of the diseases were also mostly male. Amongst the factors assessed, smoking, a weak immune system and a history of contact with tuberculosis infected persons were factors independently associated with developing tuberculosis. In the case of asthma, family history, smoking and exposure to allergen irritants were the factors independently associated with developing the disease. Conclusion: The findings highlight the need for increasing awareness through information, education and communication to address the risk factors of tuberculosis and asthma in order to decrease the rate of outspread. Recommendations: Factors triggering asthma among humans should be avoided. Since tuberculosis can be contracted through person to person contact, proper sanitation and regular medical attention are advocated for safeguarding personal and public health.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Risk management : a prerequisite for the implementation of government projects by the Eastern Cape Department of Local Government
- Authors: Sojini, Sandile
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Risk management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Project management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2755 , vital:28073
- Description: This Research Report that this research was motivated by the fact that despite thetremendous achievements have been realized from the successful implementation ofgovernment programmes and projects related the construction and refurbishment of medical facilities, educational, bridges and road infrastructure facilities. Trends indicate that only iota of evidence implies that the concept of risk management is fully integrated and embraced as part of a culture for ensuring the successful project implementation by the Modern South African public sector organizations. Empirical research revealed that the common types of risks that have been affecting the successful implementation of government projects and programmes include: riots, fraud, corruption, changes in demographic figures, outsourcing risks, and floods and changes in weather. Most of the participants stated that risks associated with riots do not only arise from the riots within the government departments, but also in the external environment. In terms of the internal riots, they revealed that when the employees go on strike or riots on their own or in solidarity with the other trade unions, leading to the process for the implementation of government projects and programmes being affected. Yet, in certain cases, they noted that internal riots or strikes most occur as preceded by rumours that the riots by a particular union will take place and may significantly affect the ongoing process of implementation of government programmes. Besides risks associated with the internal riots by the employees and the communities, the interview findings also indicated that the other forms of risks arise from the strikes and riots by the private enterprises.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Risky sexual behaviour in child headed families: A case study of Qora village, Idutywa, Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Ntutumbo, Nyameka
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Teenagers -- Sexual behavior -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Orphans -- Sexual behavior -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Risk-taking (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5213 , vital:29113
- Description: The study considered the prevalence of risky sexual behaviour in child headed families that usually affects the adolescents in South Africa. This study aimed at exploring the prevalence of risky sexual behaviour in child headed families, determining the causal factors of sexual promiscuous behaviour and effects of promiscuity. The area of investigation was Qora Village which is in a small town called Idutywa, Eastern Cape. This is an area that is characterised by poverty, illiteracy and unemployment. The sample was comprised of 50 participants and the study was conducted in two phases using mixed methods approach. Social exchange theory underpinned the study. Findings highlighted that these child headed adolescents had a role of caregivers and due to poverty they practiced risky sexual behaviour to bridge the economic gap. Furthermore, teenagers living in child headed families were likely to engage in risky sexual behaviour with people who are older than them; others are forced and coerced; while others perceive such act as a better option to bridge the economic gap that existed within their family backgrounds.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Risky sexual behaviour in child headed families: a case study of Qora Village, Idutywa, Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Ntutumbo, Nyameka
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Teenagers -- Sexual behaviour -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Orphans -- Sexual behavior -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Risk-taking (Psychology) Child welfare
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sci
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2139 , vital:27614
- Description: The study considered the prevalence of risky sexual behaviour in child headed families that usually affects the adolescents in South Africa. This study aimed at exploring the prevalence of risky sexual behaviour in child headed families, determining the causal factors of sexual promiscuous behaviour and effects of promiscuity. The area of investigation was Qora Village which is in a small town called Idutywa, Eastern Cape. This is an area that is characterised by poverty, illiteracy and unemployment. The sample was comprised of 50 participants and the study was conducted in two phases using mixed methods approach. Social exchange theory underpinned the study. Findings highlighted that these child headed adolescents had a role of caregivers and due to poverty they practiced risky sexual behaviour to bridge the economic gap. Furthermore, teenagers living in child headed families were likely to engage in risky sexual behaviour with people who are older than them; others are forced and coerced; while others perceive such act as a better option to bridge the economic gap that existed within their family backgrounds
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- Date Issued: 2015
Socio-economic factors influencing apiculture in the Eastern Cape province, South Africa
- Authors: Peter, Luntulwandile
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Bee culture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Honey -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15321 , vital:40362
- Description: The aim of this study was to assess socio-economic factors influencing apiculture in the Eastern Cape Province. In addition, production costs and profitability of beekeeping were determined, and opportunities and challenges to beekeeping were identified. The data was generated from 58 individual interviews using pre-tested structured questionnaires and checklists. This was supplemented by secondary data collected from different published and unpublished sources. Gross margin analysis was employed to examine the income contribution of honey production to household income, and a Linear Regression Model was used to identify the determinants of honey production. Of the twelve variables included in the regression model, only six were found to be statistically significant. These were gender of the beekeeper, access to credit, availability of labour, price of honey, distance to the market, and number of bee colonies owned. On average, each beekeeper owned and operated 35 bee colonies, with an average production of 9 kg of honey per colony per annum; the latter is well beyond a potential production of 35 kg per colony per annum. Beekeeping contributed an average of R12 231.80 per beekeeping household per annum. Except for the honey, no other bee products were produced and marketed. The beekeepers could access the market (retailers and consumers) readily and efficiently; the latter having been determined through calculation and analysing marketing margins. The major constraints to production identified and prioritised by beekeepers in the study area were drought, pests and insects, the shortage of bee forage, and the lack of adequate beekeeping skills. Based on the study results, interventions required to raise the marketable supply of honey produce are recommended.
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- Date Issued: 2015