The implementation of National Core Standards with specific reference to clinical leadership: A case of Frere Hospital
- Authors: Rasi, Wandisa
- Date: 2021-06
- Subjects: Health facilities -- Standards , Health services administration -- Standards
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21914 , vital:51842
- Description: BACKGROUND: Generally, many people in South Africa have difficulty accessing quality health services due to poor public service. Over 42 million citizens do not have health insurance and are growing sicker as they age. Health facilities, such as public health centers, are their only recourse. Health authorities in South Africa fail to monitor patient care effectively, as evidenced by their uninspiring record on patient experience. Anecdotes of poor patient experiences are extensive with the health ombudsman. The Office of Health Standards Compliance (OHSC) reports horrifying stories of patients sleeping on hospital floors due to the shortage of beds, patients unable to receive critical surgical treatment due to shortage of doctors, medical supplies and equipment failure or lack thereof. A few union protests have highlighted the poor quality of public healthcare. But it is not uncommon for South Africans to voice their displeasure over poor public healthcare. Health services are individualised and there is no specific interest group or community that is affected by this overall unpleasant experience. Indications of the growing public campaign against the deteriorating healthcare system may be as simple as the increasing number of medical legal claims. This study focuses on the implementation of national core standards with specific reference to clinical leadership. This study focuses on the implementation of national core standards with specific reference to clinical leadership. RESEARCH AIM: This research seeks to explore the effectiveness of the implementation of NCSs with specific reference to Clinical Leadership in Frere Hospital. It also wants to assess if the Frere hospital upholds the national core standards METHOD: qualitative research design was used in this study. Semi-structured, individual interviews were conducted. CONCLUSION: The researcher concluded that it is quite evident that the public health sector is complex and that environmental influence affect the ECDOH Functions within the health system. There is a relationship between clinical leadership and service delivery; now, to improve service delivery within the Frere hospital, strong leadership is needed to drive the change towards implementing the NCS. Ultimately, Frere hospital does not uphold the NCSs, and the staff needs to be educated on what is and how it can improve the hospital’s service delivery. RECOMMENDATIONS: Effective public leadership development, high performing and accountable leadership behavioural measurement at the most senior level at the Frere hospital is very empirical in driving effective delivery of services to patients. Effective Performance management, visible leadership role at all management levels. Performance appraisal system needs to be engineered to focus on performance and results. Recognition and Implementation of clinical leadership. Establish a culture and implementation of good governance principles in health institutions. Establish an institution based OHSC office that is visible and implement NCS through Batho Pele Principles. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, Public Health, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Rasi, Wandisa
- Date: 2021-06
- Subjects: Health facilities -- Standards , Health services administration -- Standards
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21914 , vital:51842
- Description: BACKGROUND: Generally, many people in South Africa have difficulty accessing quality health services due to poor public service. Over 42 million citizens do not have health insurance and are growing sicker as they age. Health facilities, such as public health centers, are their only recourse. Health authorities in South Africa fail to monitor patient care effectively, as evidenced by their uninspiring record on patient experience. Anecdotes of poor patient experiences are extensive with the health ombudsman. The Office of Health Standards Compliance (OHSC) reports horrifying stories of patients sleeping on hospital floors due to the shortage of beds, patients unable to receive critical surgical treatment due to shortage of doctors, medical supplies and equipment failure or lack thereof. A few union protests have highlighted the poor quality of public healthcare. But it is not uncommon for South Africans to voice their displeasure over poor public healthcare. Health services are individualised and there is no specific interest group or community that is affected by this overall unpleasant experience. Indications of the growing public campaign against the deteriorating healthcare system may be as simple as the increasing number of medical legal claims. This study focuses on the implementation of national core standards with specific reference to clinical leadership. This study focuses on the implementation of national core standards with specific reference to clinical leadership. RESEARCH AIM: This research seeks to explore the effectiveness of the implementation of NCSs with specific reference to Clinical Leadership in Frere Hospital. It also wants to assess if the Frere hospital upholds the national core standards METHOD: qualitative research design was used in this study. Semi-structured, individual interviews were conducted. CONCLUSION: The researcher concluded that it is quite evident that the public health sector is complex and that environmental influence affect the ECDOH Functions within the health system. There is a relationship between clinical leadership and service delivery; now, to improve service delivery within the Frere hospital, strong leadership is needed to drive the change towards implementing the NCS. Ultimately, Frere hospital does not uphold the NCSs, and the staff needs to be educated on what is and how it can improve the hospital’s service delivery. RECOMMENDATIONS: Effective public leadership development, high performing and accountable leadership behavioural measurement at the most senior level at the Frere hospital is very empirical in driving effective delivery of services to patients. Effective Performance management, visible leadership role at all management levels. Performance appraisal system needs to be engineered to focus on performance and results. Recognition and Implementation of clinical leadership. Establish a culture and implementation of good governance principles in health institutions. Establish an institution based OHSC office that is visible and implement NCS through Batho Pele Principles. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, Public Health, 2021
- Full Text:
The influence of socially constructed masculinities on gender-based violence: A content analysis of published academic literature
- Authors: Cajee, Mumtaaz
- Date: 2021-06
- Subjects: Family violence , Sex (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23688 , vital:58304
- Description: Gender-based violence is a global epidemic. Masculinities-focused interventions have a positive influence on behaviour and contribute toward positive attitudes and gender equality (Das et al., 2012). These interventions have a positive influence on factors associated with gender-based violence. However, some studies found that this influence is behavioural and does not influence patriarchal beliefs (Jewkes et al., 2010; Roy & Das, 2014). Highlighting that intervention on gender-based violence requires redress. This research sought to establish what has been published in academic literature on the influence of masculinities on gender-based violence. The research was addressed through the social constructionist paradigm; it used a mixed methods approach to research. A content-analysis was applied to 100 published academic articles that were sampled from the University of Fort Hare’s online library database using purposive sampling. The research method and design is appropriately suited to the theoretical framework – social constructionism. Qualitative Data Analysis (QDA) software was used to code the quantitative and qualitative data through deductive and inductive means. The quantitative results were interpreted using descriptive statistics. The qualitative findings were analysed using thematic analysis (Braun and Clarke, 2006). The research in this sample is mostly qualitative, majority of the research within the sample was published between 2007 and 2018, and male participants are primarily focused on within research on this topic. Majority of the research within the sample was conducted using North American Participants. The findings support previous literature. They indicated that masculine norms, compensatory masculinity, and victimization of gender non-conforming individuals are the most prominent themes within the sample. The results indicated various gaps within the research. There is an indication that different dimensions of masculinity are associated with different forms of gender-based violence. It is recommended that future research focus on the different dimensions of masculinity and their association with various forms of genderbased violence in order to appropriately inform preventative strategies and intervention. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Cajee, Mumtaaz
- Date: 2021-06
- Subjects: Family violence , Sex (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23688 , vital:58304
- Description: Gender-based violence is a global epidemic. Masculinities-focused interventions have a positive influence on behaviour and contribute toward positive attitudes and gender equality (Das et al., 2012). These interventions have a positive influence on factors associated with gender-based violence. However, some studies found that this influence is behavioural and does not influence patriarchal beliefs (Jewkes et al., 2010; Roy & Das, 2014). Highlighting that intervention on gender-based violence requires redress. This research sought to establish what has been published in academic literature on the influence of masculinities on gender-based violence. The research was addressed through the social constructionist paradigm; it used a mixed methods approach to research. A content-analysis was applied to 100 published academic articles that were sampled from the University of Fort Hare’s online library database using purposive sampling. The research method and design is appropriately suited to the theoretical framework – social constructionism. Qualitative Data Analysis (QDA) software was used to code the quantitative and qualitative data through deductive and inductive means. The quantitative results were interpreted using descriptive statistics. The qualitative findings were analysed using thematic analysis (Braun and Clarke, 2006). The research in this sample is mostly qualitative, majority of the research within the sample was published between 2007 and 2018, and male participants are primarily focused on within research on this topic. Majority of the research within the sample was conducted using North American Participants. The findings support previous literature. They indicated that masculine norms, compensatory masculinity, and victimization of gender non-conforming individuals are the most prominent themes within the sample. The results indicated various gaps within the research. There is an indication that different dimensions of masculinity are associated with different forms of gender-based violence. It is recommended that future research focus on the different dimensions of masculinity and their association with various forms of genderbased violence in order to appropriately inform preventative strategies and intervention. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
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Use of Information Communication Technology for personal information management by University of Fort Hare students in the Faculty of Social Science and Humanities
- Mafu, Phumelela https://orcid.org/ 0000-0003-3150-0828
- Authors: Mafu, Phumelela https://orcid.org/ 0000-0003-3150-0828
- Date: 2021-06
- Subjects: Information technology , Personal information management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20992 , vital:46884
- Description: This study investigated information communication technology for personal information management by the University of Fort Hare (UFH) students in the Faculty of Social Science and Humanities (FSSH). The objectives were to: find out which information communication technology applications and tools the students often use to acquire personal information; determine at what stage the students often experience a high influx of personal information and how to cope with the technology, and establish the challenges the students encounter when using information communication technology to manage personal information. The aim was to assess information communication technology for personal information management by UFH students in the FSSH. A sample of sixty respondents was randomly selected to represent a large population hoping that the results could be generalized to all FSSH students and make predictions. A quantitative research approach was chosen, utilizing the survey design and the Theory of Planned Behavior because of attitudes, behavioral control, and subjective norm. The findings reveal that 55percent of the students prefer to use portable devices, laptops to be specific to access and store information. Even though there are many search engines, 93percent of the students often use Google to search and access academic purposes on the internet. Their primary reason is that it is easy to access, download, and store information from Google. It was also established that 26percent of the students face challenges such as slow internet or damaged computers, unavailability of Wi-Fi, and crowded computer labs. This hindered their learning process. As a result, out of desperation, racing against time to submit assignments, students end up committing plagiarism. Moreover, the study's findings showed that 50percent of the students encounter information overload before they write their exams because, at this point, they are working towards collecting as much information as possible to be prepared for the exams. Furthermore, the study affirmed that 57percent of the students agree that possessing computer skills helps students in their academic journey and confirmed that students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds lack of computer skills negatively affect their academic performance. They need a quantum leap to acquire computer skills imperative for their information access, engagement, consumption, and knowledge production. , Thesis (MLIS) -- Faculty of Humanities, Social Science and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mafu, Phumelela https://orcid.org/ 0000-0003-3150-0828
- Date: 2021-06
- Subjects: Information technology , Personal information management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20992 , vital:46884
- Description: This study investigated information communication technology for personal information management by the University of Fort Hare (UFH) students in the Faculty of Social Science and Humanities (FSSH). The objectives were to: find out which information communication technology applications and tools the students often use to acquire personal information; determine at what stage the students often experience a high influx of personal information and how to cope with the technology, and establish the challenges the students encounter when using information communication technology to manage personal information. The aim was to assess information communication technology for personal information management by UFH students in the FSSH. A sample of sixty respondents was randomly selected to represent a large population hoping that the results could be generalized to all FSSH students and make predictions. A quantitative research approach was chosen, utilizing the survey design and the Theory of Planned Behavior because of attitudes, behavioral control, and subjective norm. The findings reveal that 55percent of the students prefer to use portable devices, laptops to be specific to access and store information. Even though there are many search engines, 93percent of the students often use Google to search and access academic purposes on the internet. Their primary reason is that it is easy to access, download, and store information from Google. It was also established that 26percent of the students face challenges such as slow internet or damaged computers, unavailability of Wi-Fi, and crowded computer labs. This hindered their learning process. As a result, out of desperation, racing against time to submit assignments, students end up committing plagiarism. Moreover, the study's findings showed that 50percent of the students encounter information overload before they write their exams because, at this point, they are working towards collecting as much information as possible to be prepared for the exams. Furthermore, the study affirmed that 57percent of the students agree that possessing computer skills helps students in their academic journey and confirmed that students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds lack of computer skills negatively affect their academic performance. They need a quantum leap to acquire computer skills imperative for their information access, engagement, consumption, and knowledge production. , Thesis (MLIS) -- Faculty of Humanities, Social Science and Humanities, 2021
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A content analysis of fan perceptions of the South African soap opera 7de Laan
- Authors: Tsewu, Xola
- Date: 2021-05
- Subjects: Television soap operas , Television program genres
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23226 , vital:56477
- Description: Soap operas are no longer only televised but the producers or content creators are branching out to other media, to make their content available to all kinds of audience. Increasingly, soap opera episodes can be shared not only on TV but also on the internet and this means its audience reach is extended. The focus of the study was on online audience of the South African soap opera 7de Laan, this exploratory study was conducted to assess the participation and activities of an online fan community. The study focused on a convenience sample of 10 asynchronous commentary forums attached to the 7de Laan YouTube channel. The sample included 1011 participants collectively providing 2312 comments. User names are not used in this study. The study intended to achieve the following objectives: 1. To conduct a qualitative content analysis of references to characters during the course of the ten episodes; 2. To find out what the users say about those characters and the plots in which they occur; and 3. To measure the coding in order to gain an impression of the interests and concerns of participants making up the online audience with respect to the soap opera narrative. The data set was coded and explored by means of the Qualitative data analysis programme NVivo 10. The raw material was collated into individual files for each participant, and imported into analysis programme. The analysis proceeded as three stages. The first stage revealed those characters that interested participants, ranging from those who attracted the most interest, to those who attracted the least. The second stage aimed to find out what themes coincided with these characters. The third stage aimed to find out what participants through about the soap opera 7de Laan itself. These stages correspond to three sets of appendices. The findings show a close correspondence between the relative airing of the five sub-plots that constitute the soap opera narrative, and the interest that online audience participants show through their comments. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Communication) --Faculty of Social Science and Humanities , 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Tsewu, Xola
- Date: 2021-05
- Subjects: Television soap operas , Television program genres
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23226 , vital:56477
- Description: Soap operas are no longer only televised but the producers or content creators are branching out to other media, to make their content available to all kinds of audience. Increasingly, soap opera episodes can be shared not only on TV but also on the internet and this means its audience reach is extended. The focus of the study was on online audience of the South African soap opera 7de Laan, this exploratory study was conducted to assess the participation and activities of an online fan community. The study focused on a convenience sample of 10 asynchronous commentary forums attached to the 7de Laan YouTube channel. The sample included 1011 participants collectively providing 2312 comments. User names are not used in this study. The study intended to achieve the following objectives: 1. To conduct a qualitative content analysis of references to characters during the course of the ten episodes; 2. To find out what the users say about those characters and the plots in which they occur; and 3. To measure the coding in order to gain an impression of the interests and concerns of participants making up the online audience with respect to the soap opera narrative. The data set was coded and explored by means of the Qualitative data analysis programme NVivo 10. The raw material was collated into individual files for each participant, and imported into analysis programme. The analysis proceeded as three stages. The first stage revealed those characters that interested participants, ranging from those who attracted the most interest, to those who attracted the least. The second stage aimed to find out what themes coincided with these characters. The third stage aimed to find out what participants through about the soap opera 7de Laan itself. These stages correspond to three sets of appendices. The findings show a close correspondence between the relative airing of the five sub-plots that constitute the soap opera narrative, and the interest that online audience participants show through their comments. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Communication) --Faculty of Social Science and Humanities , 2021
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An evaluation of agricultural extension as a measure to improve broad-based Black economic empowerment in -the Eastern Cape Province: the case of orTambo District Municipality.
- Authors: Mambila, Lawrence Nzimeni
- Date: 2021-05
- Subjects: Food security , Agricultural extension work , Land tenure
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21333 , vital:48486
- Description: This research evaluates the extent to which broad-based black economic empowerment has been achieved as a result of the implementation of different agricultural · extension programmes in Mthatha. The overall analysis and interpretation of the findings imply that to a significant extent, broad-based black economic empowerment has been_ achieved as a result of the implementation of different agricultural extension programmes in Mthatha. This is attributable to the fact that as much as some of the respondents disagreed, most of the - 97 sampled farmers were also ·found to agree that the implementation of different agricultural extension programmes in Mthatha has influenced increased farm ownership by black farmers increase in land ownership by black farmers, the development of farming skills of black farmers and increased embracement of agriculture, as a business. Some of the sampled 97 farmers also acknowledged that such agricultural extension programmes have influenced improvement in productivity and production to boost the socio-economic development of the communities in Mthatha, expansion of numerous employment opportunities .to catalyse increase in sources of income for communities in Mthatha and improvement in food security to leverage the economic independence of communities in Mthatha. However, despite some significant progress, findings imply that there are challenges that are marring the achievement of broad-based black economic empowerment. It emerged from the findings that challenges of implementation of agricultural extension programmes, as mechanisms for achieving broad-based black economic empowerment in Mthatha, arise from lack of financial capital, poor support from government, low motivation among the population and emergence of natural calamities such as stronger sunshine that causes draught. To address the above challenges, the survey explored the opinions of the participants on intervention measures that can be undertaken. The survey results indicated that measures used for ensuring that the implementation of agricultural extension programmes impact on the improvement of broad-based black economic empowerment encompass constant training and visit by agricultural specialists from Mthatha Department of Agriculture, the use of ordinary farmers as trainers, encouragement of farmers to form groups, as a basis for training community members and frequent intervention from the district, if needed. , Thesis (MCom) (Development Studies) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mambila, Lawrence Nzimeni
- Date: 2021-05
- Subjects: Food security , Agricultural extension work , Land tenure
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21333 , vital:48486
- Description: This research evaluates the extent to which broad-based black economic empowerment has been achieved as a result of the implementation of different agricultural · extension programmes in Mthatha. The overall analysis and interpretation of the findings imply that to a significant extent, broad-based black economic empowerment has been_ achieved as a result of the implementation of different agricultural extension programmes in Mthatha. This is attributable to the fact that as much as some of the respondents disagreed, most of the - 97 sampled farmers were also ·found to agree that the implementation of different agricultural extension programmes in Mthatha has influenced increased farm ownership by black farmers increase in land ownership by black farmers, the development of farming skills of black farmers and increased embracement of agriculture, as a business. Some of the sampled 97 farmers also acknowledged that such agricultural extension programmes have influenced improvement in productivity and production to boost the socio-economic development of the communities in Mthatha, expansion of numerous employment opportunities .to catalyse increase in sources of income for communities in Mthatha and improvement in food security to leverage the economic independence of communities in Mthatha. However, despite some significant progress, findings imply that there are challenges that are marring the achievement of broad-based black economic empowerment. It emerged from the findings that challenges of implementation of agricultural extension programmes, as mechanisms for achieving broad-based black economic empowerment in Mthatha, arise from lack of financial capital, poor support from government, low motivation among the population and emergence of natural calamities such as stronger sunshine that causes draught. To address the above challenges, the survey explored the opinions of the participants on intervention measures that can be undertaken. The survey results indicated that measures used for ensuring that the implementation of agricultural extension programmes impact on the improvement of broad-based black economic empowerment encompass constant training and visit by agricultural specialists from Mthatha Department of Agriculture, the use of ordinary farmers as trainers, encouragement of farmers to form groups, as a basis for training community members and frequent intervention from the district, if needed. , Thesis (MCom) (Development Studies) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
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Application of geophysical methods to investigate the subsurface geology of Kuruman and Kono areas in Griqualand West Basin, South Africa
- Authors: Mthintweni, Sylvia Lwandisa
- Date: 2021-05
- Subjects: Geology , Soil surveys--Geophysical methods
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22555 , vital:52456
- Description: Kono and Kuruman areas belong to the geology of the Campbell Rand and Asbestos Hills Subgroups, Ghaap Group in the Griqualand West Basin. Campbell Rand Subgroup comprises interbedded chert, limestone and dolomite rocks of dominantly the Kogelbeen Formation covered with a thick regolith of red sand and weathered material. The Asbestos Hills Subgroup consists of a banded iron formation (BIF) of the Kuruman Formation overlain by the Kalahari sands. Petrographic and mineralogical analyses and various geophysical methods were utilised to investigate the surface and subsurface conditions of the study areas. This study was done to characterize and understand the geology of Kuruman and Kono and identify the structural lineaments. Rock samples of varying lithology were collected in the field for laboratory analyses that include preparation of thin sections and petrographic analyses and density and porosity determinations. Both the petrographic results and XRF analyses revealed that iron oxide (Fe2O3) and silica (SiO2) are the most abundant minerals in BIF. Iron oxide and silica percentages range between 21.17-39.97 wt % and 59.03-78.01 wt %, respectively. BIF has an average density of 3.0 g/cm3 and porosity of 2.51% and dolomite has an average density of 2.8 g/cm3 and porosity of 0.17%. The Bouguer anomaly values range between - 119.00 mGal and -1 17.29 mGals. High gravity anomalies are attributed to shallow fresh bedrock and this was confirmed by the seismic line that cuts across the map. The gravity high observed in the Kuruman profile coincides with the thick BIF body observed in the field. The gravity analytic signal indicates a width of about 1125 m for the BIF and inferred two normal faults at about 675 m and 1500 m. The high magnetic anomalies in the ground magnetic map correspond to chert rich dolomite ridges in the field and the intermediate to lows correspond to dolomitic terrains. A geological map was superimposed on an aeromagnetic map to correlate the two. The linear magnetic high trending from NW – SE coincide with BIF. Older dykes trending east-west were intruded by younger dykes trending north-south. The total counts channel map for Kono area shows the measured total gamma radiation count in the study area and the concentrations of radioelements range between 51.84 and 94.64 counts/sec. The concentrations of potassium, thorium and uranium range from 0.12 – 0.51%, 0.83 – 5.23 ppm and 0.06 – 2.27 ppm, respectively. A high concentration of radiometric elements cutting through the central part of the map stretching from northwest to southeast was observed in a ternary map and this could be associated with chert rich dolomite outcrops. Seismic refraction tomography (SRT) cross-section for study area 1 in Kono revealed 3 different layers. The topmost layer comprises sand and loose material and has a velocity ranging from 614 – 1194 m/s. It is underlain by highly to slightly weathered dolomite with a velocity that ranges from 1774 – 2354 m/s. Layer 3 is the fresh bedrock dolomite and has a velocity of 2934 m/s. Three layers were observed in study area 2 for Kuruman. Layer 1 had a velocity of 300 – 750 m/s, the second layer had a velocity of 1200 – 2100 m/s and the bottom layer’s velocity was 2500 – 2999 m/s. An inferred fault is indicated on the western side of the seismic section at about 650 m. The dipole-dipole resistivity model for the main survey line in Kono revealed that the area is underlain by fractured bedrock with high resistivity in places. A thick conductive stratum was observed at the beginning of the line. The resistivity models for the sinkhole in Kono were characterized into three resistivity zones. High resistivity values (1000 – 134202 Ωm) are due to slightly weathered to fresh bedrock, intermediate values (24 – 5770 Ωm) are interpreted to be due to highly weathered dolomite and compacted dolomitic soils and very low resistivity zones (4 – 397 Ωm) are inferred to be karstic cavities. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mthintweni, Sylvia Lwandisa
- Date: 2021-05
- Subjects: Geology , Soil surveys--Geophysical methods
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22555 , vital:52456
- Description: Kono and Kuruman areas belong to the geology of the Campbell Rand and Asbestos Hills Subgroups, Ghaap Group in the Griqualand West Basin. Campbell Rand Subgroup comprises interbedded chert, limestone and dolomite rocks of dominantly the Kogelbeen Formation covered with a thick regolith of red sand and weathered material. The Asbestos Hills Subgroup consists of a banded iron formation (BIF) of the Kuruman Formation overlain by the Kalahari sands. Petrographic and mineralogical analyses and various geophysical methods were utilised to investigate the surface and subsurface conditions of the study areas. This study was done to characterize and understand the geology of Kuruman and Kono and identify the structural lineaments. Rock samples of varying lithology were collected in the field for laboratory analyses that include preparation of thin sections and petrographic analyses and density and porosity determinations. Both the petrographic results and XRF analyses revealed that iron oxide (Fe2O3) and silica (SiO2) are the most abundant minerals in BIF. Iron oxide and silica percentages range between 21.17-39.97 wt % and 59.03-78.01 wt %, respectively. BIF has an average density of 3.0 g/cm3 and porosity of 2.51% and dolomite has an average density of 2.8 g/cm3 and porosity of 0.17%. The Bouguer anomaly values range between - 119.00 mGal and -1 17.29 mGals. High gravity anomalies are attributed to shallow fresh bedrock and this was confirmed by the seismic line that cuts across the map. The gravity high observed in the Kuruman profile coincides with the thick BIF body observed in the field. The gravity analytic signal indicates a width of about 1125 m for the BIF and inferred two normal faults at about 675 m and 1500 m. The high magnetic anomalies in the ground magnetic map correspond to chert rich dolomite ridges in the field and the intermediate to lows correspond to dolomitic terrains. A geological map was superimposed on an aeromagnetic map to correlate the two. The linear magnetic high trending from NW – SE coincide with BIF. Older dykes trending east-west were intruded by younger dykes trending north-south. The total counts channel map for Kono area shows the measured total gamma radiation count in the study area and the concentrations of radioelements range between 51.84 and 94.64 counts/sec. The concentrations of potassium, thorium and uranium range from 0.12 – 0.51%, 0.83 – 5.23 ppm and 0.06 – 2.27 ppm, respectively. A high concentration of radiometric elements cutting through the central part of the map stretching from northwest to southeast was observed in a ternary map and this could be associated with chert rich dolomite outcrops. Seismic refraction tomography (SRT) cross-section for study area 1 in Kono revealed 3 different layers. The topmost layer comprises sand and loose material and has a velocity ranging from 614 – 1194 m/s. It is underlain by highly to slightly weathered dolomite with a velocity that ranges from 1774 – 2354 m/s. Layer 3 is the fresh bedrock dolomite and has a velocity of 2934 m/s. Three layers were observed in study area 2 for Kuruman. Layer 1 had a velocity of 300 – 750 m/s, the second layer had a velocity of 1200 – 2100 m/s and the bottom layer’s velocity was 2500 – 2999 m/s. An inferred fault is indicated on the western side of the seismic section at about 650 m. The dipole-dipole resistivity model for the main survey line in Kono revealed that the area is underlain by fractured bedrock with high resistivity in places. A thick conductive stratum was observed at the beginning of the line. The resistivity models for the sinkhole in Kono were characterized into three resistivity zones. High resistivity values (1000 – 134202 Ωm) are due to slightly weathered to fresh bedrock, intermediate values (24 – 5770 Ωm) are interpreted to be due to highly weathered dolomite and compacted dolomitic soils and very low resistivity zones (4 – 397 Ωm) are inferred to be karstic cavities. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
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Assessing Drought Conditions using NDVI, Land Surface Temperature and Precipitation in Amathole District Municipality, Eastern Cape, Province, South Africa
- Authors: Dyosi, Masonwabe
- Date: 2021-05
- Subjects: Remote sensing , Earth sciences--Remote sensing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20793 , vital:46570
- Description: The world is faced with unprecedented environmental changes, which can be linked to population growth, and economic development. Several studies have indicated that these changes are likely to accelerate in the future and cause adverse impact on the environment. To this end, the Eastern Cape Province and in particular the Amathole District Municipality (ADM) has recorded high number of climate change related disasters such as prolonged drought conditions witnessed during the winter season of 2008, 2009, 2014 and 2015 among others. To this end, this study aimed to use remote sensing imagery to assess and document drought occurrences in the ADM from 2007 to 2017. To accomplish the aim, the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, Land Surface Temperature and Precipitation were explored to assess drought spatiotemporal occurrences. To assess the relationship between abovementioned variables, the Pearson’s correlation was used. For the analysis a total of 396 satellite imagery (MODIS NDVI and Land Surface Temperature as well as TRMM precipitation) were used. The study results revealed that different correlations exist between the three variables. The strength of correlations differed by season. Furthermore, it was revealed that the drought conditions in the district differed in the spatial distribution. The study accurately identified the drought episodes which occurred in the ADM in the years 2008, 2009, 2014, 2015 and 2016. The chosen methodology and variables proved to be suitable for analysing drought conditions offering space and temporal variation dimension, which is vital in monitoring disasters such as drought. , Thesis (MSc) (Geography) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Dyosi, Masonwabe
- Date: 2021-05
- Subjects: Remote sensing , Earth sciences--Remote sensing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20793 , vital:46570
- Description: The world is faced with unprecedented environmental changes, which can be linked to population growth, and economic development. Several studies have indicated that these changes are likely to accelerate in the future and cause adverse impact on the environment. To this end, the Eastern Cape Province and in particular the Amathole District Municipality (ADM) has recorded high number of climate change related disasters such as prolonged drought conditions witnessed during the winter season of 2008, 2009, 2014 and 2015 among others. To this end, this study aimed to use remote sensing imagery to assess and document drought occurrences in the ADM from 2007 to 2017. To accomplish the aim, the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, Land Surface Temperature and Precipitation were explored to assess drought spatiotemporal occurrences. To assess the relationship between abovementioned variables, the Pearson’s correlation was used. For the analysis a total of 396 satellite imagery (MODIS NDVI and Land Surface Temperature as well as TRMM precipitation) were used. The study results revealed that different correlations exist between the three variables. The strength of correlations differed by season. Furthermore, it was revealed that the drought conditions in the district differed in the spatial distribution. The study accurately identified the drought episodes which occurred in the ADM in the years 2008, 2009, 2014, 2015 and 2016. The chosen methodology and variables proved to be suitable for analysing drought conditions offering space and temporal variation dimension, which is vital in monitoring disasters such as drought. , Thesis (MSc) (Geography) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
Development of a Mobile-Based Livestock Breeding Management System for Communal Farmers in Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Aduradola, Oluwatobi John
- Date: 2021-05
- Subjects: Mobile communication systems , Mobile computing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20600 , vital:46364
- Description: More than a decade ago, South Africa realized the significance of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and its use in delivering several services; there are still several challenges that block implementing an ICT-based system to deliver services and information better. Since communal development is still one of the country's biggest concerns, ICT is among several advances and views recognized for speeding up communal development and providing for the country's economic growth. This research aimed to investigate and implement ICT tools for communal farmers in the context of information needs and information dissemination. The research concentrated on the technical tools and skills needed to implement an ICT tool for communal farmers and other stakeholders. A prototyping methodology was used in this research in the development of the required prototype. A study was then conducted to understand the present state and the information needs of communal farmers where the questionnaire was administered. The research results demonstrated the critical need for communal farmers to get information timely at their convenience. A mobile database system was then designed and developed that suits communal farmers' nature. This system was an offline android application that assists with their information need and its dissemination, and it allows the sharing of the communal farmer's data to other stakeholders. , Thesis (MSc) (Computer Science)-- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Aduradola, Oluwatobi John
- Date: 2021-05
- Subjects: Mobile communication systems , Mobile computing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20600 , vital:46364
- Description: More than a decade ago, South Africa realized the significance of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and its use in delivering several services; there are still several challenges that block implementing an ICT-based system to deliver services and information better. Since communal development is still one of the country's biggest concerns, ICT is among several advances and views recognized for speeding up communal development and providing for the country's economic growth. This research aimed to investigate and implement ICT tools for communal farmers in the context of information needs and information dissemination. The research concentrated on the technical tools and skills needed to implement an ICT tool for communal farmers and other stakeholders. A prototyping methodology was used in this research in the development of the required prototype. A study was then conducted to understand the present state and the information needs of communal farmers where the questionnaire was administered. The research results demonstrated the critical need for communal farmers to get information timely at their convenience. A mobile database system was then designed and developed that suits communal farmers' nature. This system was an offline android application that assists with their information need and its dissemination, and it allows the sharing of the communal farmer's data to other stakeholders. , Thesis (MSc) (Computer Science)-- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
Modelling internet network intrusion detection in smart city ecosystems
- Authors: Mfenguza, Wandisa
- Date: 2021-05
- Subjects: Ecosystem management , Smart cities
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22501 , vital:52382
- Description: Smart city systems are intended to enhance the lives of citizens through the design of systems that promote resource efficiency and the real-time provisioning of resources in cities. The benefits offered by smart cities include the use of internet of things (IoT) sensors to gather useful data such as power demand to inhibit blackouts and the average speed of vehicles to alleviate traffic congestion. Nonetheless, earlier studies have indicated a substantial increase in cyber-security issues due to the increase in the deployment of smart city ecosystems. Consequently, IoT cyber-security is recognised as an area that requires crucial scrutiny. This study begins by investigating the current state of intrusion detection in smart city ecosystems. Current intrusion detection frameworks lack the capability to operate under extremely limiting settings such as conditions of low processing power and fast response times. Moreover, the study also identifies that, despite intrusion detection being a highly researched thematic area, a plethora of previous studies tend to propose intrusion detection frameworks that are more suitable for traditional computer networks rather than wireless sensor networks (WSNs) which consist of heterogeneous settings with diverse devices and communication protocols. Subsequently, this study developed two candidate deep learning models, namely a convolutional neural network (CNN) and a long short-term memory (LSTM) network and presents evidence on their robustness and predictive power. Results have indicated that, unlike the CNN model, the LSTM model can quickly converge and offer high predictive power without the vigorous application of regularisation techniques. The proposed LSTM classification model obtained a remarkable 100% in detection rates and further reported 0% in false alarm and false negative rates. This study gives a broad overview of the current state of intrusion detection mechanisms for smart city ecosystems to guide future studies. The study also demonstrates that existing intrusion detection systems (IDSs) can be enhanced through the development of more robust and lightweight models that offer high detection rates and minimal false alarm rates to prevent security risks in smart city ecosystems to ensure sustainable and safe smart cities. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mfenguza, Wandisa
- Date: 2021-05
- Subjects: Ecosystem management , Smart cities
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22501 , vital:52382
- Description: Smart city systems are intended to enhance the lives of citizens through the design of systems that promote resource efficiency and the real-time provisioning of resources in cities. The benefits offered by smart cities include the use of internet of things (IoT) sensors to gather useful data such as power demand to inhibit blackouts and the average speed of vehicles to alleviate traffic congestion. Nonetheless, earlier studies have indicated a substantial increase in cyber-security issues due to the increase in the deployment of smart city ecosystems. Consequently, IoT cyber-security is recognised as an area that requires crucial scrutiny. This study begins by investigating the current state of intrusion detection in smart city ecosystems. Current intrusion detection frameworks lack the capability to operate under extremely limiting settings such as conditions of low processing power and fast response times. Moreover, the study also identifies that, despite intrusion detection being a highly researched thematic area, a plethora of previous studies tend to propose intrusion detection frameworks that are more suitable for traditional computer networks rather than wireless sensor networks (WSNs) which consist of heterogeneous settings with diverse devices and communication protocols. Subsequently, this study developed two candidate deep learning models, namely a convolutional neural network (CNN) and a long short-term memory (LSTM) network and presents evidence on their robustness and predictive power. Results have indicated that, unlike the CNN model, the LSTM model can quickly converge and offer high predictive power without the vigorous application of regularisation techniques. The proposed LSTM classification model obtained a remarkable 100% in detection rates and further reported 0% in false alarm and false negative rates. This study gives a broad overview of the current state of intrusion detection mechanisms for smart city ecosystems to guide future studies. The study also demonstrates that existing intrusion detection systems (IDSs) can be enhanced through the development of more robust and lightweight models that offer high detection rates and minimal false alarm rates to prevent security risks in smart city ecosystems to ensure sustainable and safe smart cities. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
Raising a child with an intellectual disability in a township: The lived experiences of black South African parents
- Authors: Sothoane, Relebogile Happy
- Date: 2021-05
- Subjects: Intelligence levels , Intellectual disability , Developmental disabilities
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23238 , vital:56483
- Description: This study was conducted to explore and understand how black South African parents residing in a township, experience raising a child with an intellectual disability. It was important to investigate this under-researched phenomenon to have a holistic understanding of the personal experiences and meanings that black South African parents have over the years attached to, and experienced in their journeys of raising a child with intellectual impairments in low economic areas. An Interpretive qualitative approach was adopted to explore and understand the experiences of raising a child with an intellectual disability in a township by black South African parents. Non-probability snowball and purposive sampling methods were used to develop the sample for this study. Four parents residing in two townships (Mdantsane and Ducan Village) around the Buffalo City Municipality which is situated in the Eastern Cape province participated in this study. Data was collected through personal, face to face and individual interviews which were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Braun and Clarke’s six steps of thematic analysis was employed to analyse the data that was collected. The results of this study showed that raising children with intellectual disabilities in a township is challenging. Parents tend to feel that they are alone on this journey because of the lack of support, acceptance and understanding they receive from family members, the community and even teachers. Furthermore, the study found that being financially disadvantaged is a challenge when it comes to raising a child with an intellectual disability. Participants in this study indicated that the unconditional love they have for their children motivates them daily to raise their children and that they have hopes and dreams for their children despite the children’s impairments. This study recommends that the department of education hold more psychoeducation workshops on intellectual disability, especially for teachers in mainstream and inclusive schools who educate children with intellectual disabilities. Furthermore, more awareness campaigns in townships to educate the community on intellectual disability are recommended. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Counselling Psychology) --Faculty of Social Science and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Sothoane, Relebogile Happy
- Date: 2021-05
- Subjects: Intelligence levels , Intellectual disability , Developmental disabilities
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23238 , vital:56483
- Description: This study was conducted to explore and understand how black South African parents residing in a township, experience raising a child with an intellectual disability. It was important to investigate this under-researched phenomenon to have a holistic understanding of the personal experiences and meanings that black South African parents have over the years attached to, and experienced in their journeys of raising a child with intellectual impairments in low economic areas. An Interpretive qualitative approach was adopted to explore and understand the experiences of raising a child with an intellectual disability in a township by black South African parents. Non-probability snowball and purposive sampling methods were used to develop the sample for this study. Four parents residing in two townships (Mdantsane and Ducan Village) around the Buffalo City Municipality which is situated in the Eastern Cape province participated in this study. Data was collected through personal, face to face and individual interviews which were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Braun and Clarke’s six steps of thematic analysis was employed to analyse the data that was collected. The results of this study showed that raising children with intellectual disabilities in a township is challenging. Parents tend to feel that they are alone on this journey because of the lack of support, acceptance and understanding they receive from family members, the community and even teachers. Furthermore, the study found that being financially disadvantaged is a challenge when it comes to raising a child with an intellectual disability. Participants in this study indicated that the unconditional love they have for their children motivates them daily to raise their children and that they have hopes and dreams for their children despite the children’s impairments. This study recommends that the department of education hold more psychoeducation workshops on intellectual disability, especially for teachers in mainstream and inclusive schools who educate children with intellectual disabilities. Furthermore, more awareness campaigns in townships to educate the community on intellectual disability are recommended. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Counselling Psychology) --Faculty of Social Science and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
Transition experiences from student to nascent Entreprenuership: a narrative analysis.
- Authors: Soda, Ruth
- Date: 2021-05
- Subjects: Business education. , Entrepreneurship. , Career development.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22323 , vital:52023
- Description: Orientation: South Africa is facing an increase in the unemployment rate. This has affected many youths, particularly the graduates of South Africa. In a quest to better their lives, many of them are engaging in nascent entrepreneurship. Although they are facing challenges in the journey, they are managing to devise solutions that work for their success. Research purpose: The main purpose of this research was to explore the transition experiences from student to nascent entrepreneur. The secondary aims included: i) investigating the journey (experiences and transitions in becoming a nascent entrepreneur), ii) exploring the challenges as part of the experiences and transitions faced by nascent entrepreneurs, and iii) exploring how nascent entrepreneurs, as part of the challenges faced during experiences and transition, navigate past these. Motivation for the study: Many studies in literature have focused on nascent entrepreneurship. Further studies should concentrate on narrowing this aspect to the South African context and also more qualitative studies should be conducted to gain a deep understanding of nascent entrepreneurship. Research approach/design and method: A qualitative research approach was used as a way of generating new information. Narrative inquiry was employed and this allowed the participants to express their views freely. A sample of 22 participants was utilised for this study. Data was analysed using the three levels of meaning-making. Main findings: The findings of this study were grouped into three narratives. The first narrative was nascent entrepreneurship expressed as a solution to social challenges. The second narrative elaborated the challenges that these participants faced in their nascent entrepreneurship journey. The last narrative focused on the solutions that were implied by the participants in response to the challenges they encountered in the transition process. Practical implications: Based on the research findings, this research has recommendations that can assist universities and students, those who are already in the entrepreneurial space, as well as the government. Contribution/value-add: All the universities in South Africa should integrate the need for thorough entrepreneurship education in their institutions to prepare students for the world of work and policies set for entrepreneurship should be amended. , Thesis (MCom) (Business Management) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Soda, Ruth
- Date: 2021-05
- Subjects: Business education. , Entrepreneurship. , Career development.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22323 , vital:52023
- Description: Orientation: South Africa is facing an increase in the unemployment rate. This has affected many youths, particularly the graduates of South Africa. In a quest to better their lives, many of them are engaging in nascent entrepreneurship. Although they are facing challenges in the journey, they are managing to devise solutions that work for their success. Research purpose: The main purpose of this research was to explore the transition experiences from student to nascent entrepreneur. The secondary aims included: i) investigating the journey (experiences and transitions in becoming a nascent entrepreneur), ii) exploring the challenges as part of the experiences and transitions faced by nascent entrepreneurs, and iii) exploring how nascent entrepreneurs, as part of the challenges faced during experiences and transition, navigate past these. Motivation for the study: Many studies in literature have focused on nascent entrepreneurship. Further studies should concentrate on narrowing this aspect to the South African context and also more qualitative studies should be conducted to gain a deep understanding of nascent entrepreneurship. Research approach/design and method: A qualitative research approach was used as a way of generating new information. Narrative inquiry was employed and this allowed the participants to express their views freely. A sample of 22 participants was utilised for this study. Data was analysed using the three levels of meaning-making. Main findings: The findings of this study were grouped into three narratives. The first narrative was nascent entrepreneurship expressed as a solution to social challenges. The second narrative elaborated the challenges that these participants faced in their nascent entrepreneurship journey. The last narrative focused on the solutions that were implied by the participants in response to the challenges they encountered in the transition process. Practical implications: Based on the research findings, this research has recommendations that can assist universities and students, those who are already in the entrepreneurial space, as well as the government. Contribution/value-add: All the universities in South Africa should integrate the need for thorough entrepreneurship education in their institutions to prepare students for the world of work and policies set for entrepreneurship should be amended. , Thesis (MCom) (Business Management) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
Access to digitised archival collections in National Heritage and Cultural study Centre and International Library of African Music
- Authors: Barbra, Kakumba
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Archives -- Access control , Archival materials -- Access control
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22356 , vital:52030
- Description: The study investigated access to digitised archival collections in two selected institutions in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. This study is significant because it sought to generate insights on adaptability of technology in archives and library operations, and accessibility thereof. This is important for monitoring the accessibility of digitised archival collections at institutions to improve their operations and maximize the global visibility. This study adopted qualitative research methodology. The researcher followed a rigorous methodological path that began with a thorough literature review and the careful and thoughtful posing of research questions and objectives. A purposive sample was chosen from National Heritage and Cultural Studies Centre (NAHECS) and International library of African Music (ILAM) (staff members) and interviewed through face-to-face interviews. The collected data was analysed thematically. The study established that, the type of materials digitised at NAHECS and ILAM are bound books, fragile papers, photographic prints, slides, audio-visual materials,artefacts and documents such as personal letters of early travellers,missionary’s records,traders writing personal file and political parties documents. Secondly, the study established that end users of digitised materials are researchers, students, archivist, librarians, international and local community, composers, musicians, and historians. It also emerged that awareness programmes used to increase public knowledge about access to digitised content in the two study sites include conferences, social media, and television advertisements. However, there are challenges faced in providing access to digitised materials at NAHECS and ILAM. Some of these challenges include lack of funding, unavailability of resources, lack of awareness, and information insecurity. These challenges have made access to digitised archival materials difficult. Based on these findings, it is recommended that archives facilities should be well resourced and archivists be continually trained on access to digitised archival materials. , Thesis (M Bibl) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Barbra, Kakumba
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Archives -- Access control , Archival materials -- Access control
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22356 , vital:52030
- Description: The study investigated access to digitised archival collections in two selected institutions in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. This study is significant because it sought to generate insights on adaptability of technology in archives and library operations, and accessibility thereof. This is important for monitoring the accessibility of digitised archival collections at institutions to improve their operations and maximize the global visibility. This study adopted qualitative research methodology. The researcher followed a rigorous methodological path that began with a thorough literature review and the careful and thoughtful posing of research questions and objectives. A purposive sample was chosen from National Heritage and Cultural Studies Centre (NAHECS) and International library of African Music (ILAM) (staff members) and interviewed through face-to-face interviews. The collected data was analysed thematically. The study established that, the type of materials digitised at NAHECS and ILAM are bound books, fragile papers, photographic prints, slides, audio-visual materials,artefacts and documents such as personal letters of early travellers,missionary’s records,traders writing personal file and political parties documents. Secondly, the study established that end users of digitised materials are researchers, students, archivist, librarians, international and local community, composers, musicians, and historians. It also emerged that awareness programmes used to increase public knowledge about access to digitised content in the two study sites include conferences, social media, and television advertisements. However, there are challenges faced in providing access to digitised materials at NAHECS and ILAM. Some of these challenges include lack of funding, unavailability of resources, lack of awareness, and information insecurity. These challenges have made access to digitised archival materials difficult. Based on these findings, it is recommended that archives facilities should be well resourced and archivists be continually trained on access to digitised archival materials. , Thesis (M Bibl) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
Agro-morphological characterization and investigations into the response of yellow Quality Protein Maize (QPM) genotypes to low soil pH
- Authors: Bobotyana, Simthandile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Corn as food , Plants--Drought tolerance
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20528 , vital:46087
- Description: Maize (Zea mays L) is an essential food grain crop in South Africa and is mainly grown under rainfed conditions by small-scale farmers. Quality Protein Maize (QPM) contains a higher level of two essential amino acids, tryptophan, and lysine when equated to normal maize. Therefore, the QPM in communities is a vital cereal where maize is a staple crop. Among the significant abiotic stresses that adversely affect maize productivity, such as soil fertility. Low soil pH or soil acidity results in nutrient deficiencies, as well as the toxicity of minerals such as manganese (Mn), aluminium (Al), and iron (Fe). The objectives of the study were to: (1) Characterize yellow QPM inbred lines and testcross hybrids for agro-morphological variability under optimum conditions, (2) Determine the response of QPM inbred lines and testcross hybrids to Al toxicity, and (3) Estimate the combining ability of QPM genotypes for the tolerance to Al toxicity. The laboratory assessment for tolerance to Al toxicity revealed a negative relationship between relative root growth RRG and hematoxylin staining; among the inbred lines, the genotype 8Y, 17Y, and 7Y had the highest RRG and net root growth (NRG) values and exhibited the highest tolerance to Al tolerance with the least hematoxylin staining. Inbred lines 12Y, 16Y, 19Y, 2Y, 20Y, 24Y, 30Y, 27Y, 34Y, 4Y, and 11Y were moderately tolerant. On the other hand, inbred lines 13Y, 18Y, and QSY5 had the least RRG were susceptible. Forty-four testcross hybrids were generated by crossing 22 QPM inbred lines with two open-pollinated variety (OPV) testers. These hybrids were evaluated together with five checks for different agronomic traits. The hybrids were planted in the summer season of 2017/18 and 2018/19 under rain-fed conditions 7 x 7 alpha lattice design was used. The significant variations among the genotypes for grain yield and most other agronomic traits under optimum, acidic conditions and across environments on combined analysis of variance. The hybrid was 14Y x NC (3.22 t/ha), followed by QSY5 x NC (3.02 t/ha) showed the highest yielding. The mean plant height was 226.23 cm, with ranges 197.60 to 254.85cm. The number of kernels per ear was 35, with a range from 29.45 to 40.25. Conversely, the mean ear length was 19.30 cm with a range of 17.65 to 20.95 cm, and the mean ear diameter ranged from 13,50 to 16,05 cm. The highest yielding hybrid, according to ranking, was 14Y x NC (2,93t/ha), which was ranked number 3, followed by 3Y x NC (2,83 t/ha), which was ranked number 4. Twenty-two yellow QPM inbred lines were evaluated for agro-morphological characteristics. A randomized complete block design with three replicates was used under acidic and normal soil conditions at two locations. The mean performance of inbred lines for grain yield ranged from 1.6 t/ha to 3.1 t/ha under optimum conditions, whereas it ranged from 1.1.t/ha to 1.7 t/ha under an acidic environment. The highest grain yielding genotypes under the optimum environment were 14Y, 7Y, and QSY5, while, in the acidic environment, the highest yielders were 3Y, QSY5, and 17Y. The lowest grain yielder under the optimum environment was 16Y at 1.5 t/ha, whereas 6Y, 7Y, 8Y, and 29Y were the most moderate yielders under the acidic environment. Grain yield displayed positive and significant (p<0,05) correlation with ear height (0.59), plant height (0.55), leaf length (0.18), number of leaves (0.37), number of ears per plot (0,54), number of kernels per row, number of rows per ear and thousand kernel weight. Combined ANOVA revealed that the environment effect was significant for all traits except the number of rows per ear and the number of ears in both environments. A total of 71 genotypes (22 inbred lines, forty-four single crosses, and five checks) were evaluated using a 7 x 7 alpha lattice design with two replications in combining ability. Across environments, the analysis showed a mean grain yield record of hybrids that ranged from 1.78 t/ha to 3.42 t/ha. Combined analysis showed only about 4 percent of the 44 hybrids had better grain yield than hybrid checks, whereas about 11 percent of the 44 hybrids had higher grain yield than two of the five hybrid checks. The highest yielding hybrid was 14Y x NC followed by QSY5 x NC. The Mid-parent heterosis (MPH) for grain yield ranged from -32.70 for 11YxObat to 16.50 percent for 14YxNC among the top-yielding genotypes. The highest positive mid-parent heterosis (MPH) for grain yield was observed in hybrid 14YxNC followed by QSY9xNC, QSY5xOBAT, 3YxNC, 13YxNC and 4YxOBAT, while the remaining hybrids exhibited negative estimates. Inbred lines' proportional contributions to the total variances were much higher than the testers for all traits. Whereas the inbred lines' proportional contribution was lower than the interaction of line x tester except on the number of ears which displayed the highest estimates of variances due to SCA effects, significant variation was observed. The GCA effects on grain yield in both environments generally showed no significant difference among inbred lines except for inbred lines such as QSY5 and 34Y but were positive. The selected crosses showed significant SCA effects in a few agronomic yield-related traits in the combined analysis. Among the hybrids, the only crosses that showed significant and positive SCA effects for grain yield were 25YxNC under optimum and 34YxObat under acidic environment. The inbred lines were assessed for tolerance to Al toxicity under laboratory conditions. Overall, the study identified soil acidity tolerant QPM inbred lines with an excellent combining ability for high-yielding QPM test hybrids, grain yield, and related traits. , Thesis (MSc) (Agriculture, Crop Science) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Bobotyana, Simthandile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Corn as food , Plants--Drought tolerance
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20528 , vital:46087
- Description: Maize (Zea mays L) is an essential food grain crop in South Africa and is mainly grown under rainfed conditions by small-scale farmers. Quality Protein Maize (QPM) contains a higher level of two essential amino acids, tryptophan, and lysine when equated to normal maize. Therefore, the QPM in communities is a vital cereal where maize is a staple crop. Among the significant abiotic stresses that adversely affect maize productivity, such as soil fertility. Low soil pH or soil acidity results in nutrient deficiencies, as well as the toxicity of minerals such as manganese (Mn), aluminium (Al), and iron (Fe). The objectives of the study were to: (1) Characterize yellow QPM inbred lines and testcross hybrids for agro-morphological variability under optimum conditions, (2) Determine the response of QPM inbred lines and testcross hybrids to Al toxicity, and (3) Estimate the combining ability of QPM genotypes for the tolerance to Al toxicity. The laboratory assessment for tolerance to Al toxicity revealed a negative relationship between relative root growth RRG and hematoxylin staining; among the inbred lines, the genotype 8Y, 17Y, and 7Y had the highest RRG and net root growth (NRG) values and exhibited the highest tolerance to Al tolerance with the least hematoxylin staining. Inbred lines 12Y, 16Y, 19Y, 2Y, 20Y, 24Y, 30Y, 27Y, 34Y, 4Y, and 11Y were moderately tolerant. On the other hand, inbred lines 13Y, 18Y, and QSY5 had the least RRG were susceptible. Forty-four testcross hybrids were generated by crossing 22 QPM inbred lines with two open-pollinated variety (OPV) testers. These hybrids were evaluated together with five checks for different agronomic traits. The hybrids were planted in the summer season of 2017/18 and 2018/19 under rain-fed conditions 7 x 7 alpha lattice design was used. The significant variations among the genotypes for grain yield and most other agronomic traits under optimum, acidic conditions and across environments on combined analysis of variance. The hybrid was 14Y x NC (3.22 t/ha), followed by QSY5 x NC (3.02 t/ha) showed the highest yielding. The mean plant height was 226.23 cm, with ranges 197.60 to 254.85cm. The number of kernels per ear was 35, with a range from 29.45 to 40.25. Conversely, the mean ear length was 19.30 cm with a range of 17.65 to 20.95 cm, and the mean ear diameter ranged from 13,50 to 16,05 cm. The highest yielding hybrid, according to ranking, was 14Y x NC (2,93t/ha), which was ranked number 3, followed by 3Y x NC (2,83 t/ha), which was ranked number 4. Twenty-two yellow QPM inbred lines were evaluated for agro-morphological characteristics. A randomized complete block design with three replicates was used under acidic and normal soil conditions at two locations. The mean performance of inbred lines for grain yield ranged from 1.6 t/ha to 3.1 t/ha under optimum conditions, whereas it ranged from 1.1.t/ha to 1.7 t/ha under an acidic environment. The highest grain yielding genotypes under the optimum environment were 14Y, 7Y, and QSY5, while, in the acidic environment, the highest yielders were 3Y, QSY5, and 17Y. The lowest grain yielder under the optimum environment was 16Y at 1.5 t/ha, whereas 6Y, 7Y, 8Y, and 29Y were the most moderate yielders under the acidic environment. Grain yield displayed positive and significant (p<0,05) correlation with ear height (0.59), plant height (0.55), leaf length (0.18), number of leaves (0.37), number of ears per plot (0,54), number of kernels per row, number of rows per ear and thousand kernel weight. Combined ANOVA revealed that the environment effect was significant for all traits except the number of rows per ear and the number of ears in both environments. A total of 71 genotypes (22 inbred lines, forty-four single crosses, and five checks) were evaluated using a 7 x 7 alpha lattice design with two replications in combining ability. Across environments, the analysis showed a mean grain yield record of hybrids that ranged from 1.78 t/ha to 3.42 t/ha. Combined analysis showed only about 4 percent of the 44 hybrids had better grain yield than hybrid checks, whereas about 11 percent of the 44 hybrids had higher grain yield than two of the five hybrid checks. The highest yielding hybrid was 14Y x NC followed by QSY5 x NC. The Mid-parent heterosis (MPH) for grain yield ranged from -32.70 for 11YxObat to 16.50 percent for 14YxNC among the top-yielding genotypes. The highest positive mid-parent heterosis (MPH) for grain yield was observed in hybrid 14YxNC followed by QSY9xNC, QSY5xOBAT, 3YxNC, 13YxNC and 4YxOBAT, while the remaining hybrids exhibited negative estimates. Inbred lines' proportional contributions to the total variances were much higher than the testers for all traits. Whereas the inbred lines' proportional contribution was lower than the interaction of line x tester except on the number of ears which displayed the highest estimates of variances due to SCA effects, significant variation was observed. The GCA effects on grain yield in both environments generally showed no significant difference among inbred lines except for inbred lines such as QSY5 and 34Y but were positive. The selected crosses showed significant SCA effects in a few agronomic yield-related traits in the combined analysis. Among the hybrids, the only crosses that showed significant and positive SCA effects for grain yield were 25YxNC under optimum and 34YxObat under acidic environment. The inbred lines were assessed for tolerance to Al toxicity under laboratory conditions. Overall, the study identified soil acidity tolerant QPM inbred lines with an excellent combining ability for high-yielding QPM test hybrids, grain yield, and related traits. , Thesis (MSc) (Agriculture, Crop Science) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
An evaluation of a bank’s clients’ preference for particular communication channels
- Authors: Chapwanya, Marvelous
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Communication , Mass media
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26615 , vital:65663
- Description: This study aims to establish clients’ preference for particular communication channels of a particular bank in Alice. The study, focusing on marketing communication, was guided by the tenets of media richness theory. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative research methods. This particular bank is one of the biggest banks in South Africa and it has many branches across the country and abroad. However, this study only focused on clients in the small town of Alice in the Eastern Cape. Alice has three major groups of clients: those who are highly educated, those who are illiterate and those who fall in between. This diversity in the demographics of the clients affects the way people react to the communication channels used by this bank including modern communication channels and traditional channels. It was discovered that education level, age (as related to literacy level), language, geographical location and access to computers and the internet have an impact on the way the clients evaluate the preference for particular communication channels of this bank. The results of the study show that the majority of the clients prefer communication channels that are interactive like face-to-face communication and cell phone calls. The other channels at the clients’ disposal are television, radio, newspapers, printed mail, internet and emails. However, some of these channels are not regarded as very effective by the clients in Alice for several reasons such as the rural nature of Alice, lack of access and resources, being illiterate, and a lack of education. The clients suggested that the bank make use of other communication channels that suit a rural and less developed area in order to effectively communicate with the clients. The study also brought to light that the use of the new ICTs in Alice is still lagging, resulting in many customers experiencing problems when they want to use some of the communication channels offered by the bank. , Thesis (MSoc ) -- Faculty of Social Sciences & Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Chapwanya, Marvelous
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Communication , Mass media
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26615 , vital:65663
- Description: This study aims to establish clients’ preference for particular communication channels of a particular bank in Alice. The study, focusing on marketing communication, was guided by the tenets of media richness theory. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative research methods. This particular bank is one of the biggest banks in South Africa and it has many branches across the country and abroad. However, this study only focused on clients in the small town of Alice in the Eastern Cape. Alice has three major groups of clients: those who are highly educated, those who are illiterate and those who fall in between. This diversity in the demographics of the clients affects the way people react to the communication channels used by this bank including modern communication channels and traditional channels. It was discovered that education level, age (as related to literacy level), language, geographical location and access to computers and the internet have an impact on the way the clients evaluate the preference for particular communication channels of this bank. The results of the study show that the majority of the clients prefer communication channels that are interactive like face-to-face communication and cell phone calls. The other channels at the clients’ disposal are television, radio, newspapers, printed mail, internet and emails. However, some of these channels are not regarded as very effective by the clients in Alice for several reasons such as the rural nature of Alice, lack of access and resources, being illiterate, and a lack of education. The clients suggested that the bank make use of other communication channels that suit a rural and less developed area in order to effectively communicate with the clients. The study also brought to light that the use of the new ICTs in Alice is still lagging, resulting in many customers experiencing problems when they want to use some of the communication channels offered by the bank. , Thesis (MSoc ) -- Faculty of Social Sciences & Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
Antibiotics combination therapy option for the control of antimicrobial-resistant non-cholera causing Vibrio species recovered from environmental niches of Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Ayodele, Oluwakemi Victoria
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Drug resistance in microorganisms , Vibrio cholerae
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20396 , vital:45661
- Description: Increased rate of antibiotic resistance (AR) poses a serious threat with a resultant notion of a possible end of the antibiotics era, making it a problem of concern to public health and a great implication on the world economy and human society. Despite many approaches developed to curb this menace, antibiotics resistance is still a challenge worldwide. This has made the use of combined therapy as one of the options in many cases. This study was conducted to assess antibiotics combination therapy as an option for the control of antimicrobial-resistant non-cholera causing Vibrio species that were recovered from the environment in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Two hundred and twenty-eight Vibrio species were recovered from the environment in the Province, and these were deposited in the archive of AEMREG. PCR was used to identify target Vibrio species. Disc diffusion method was used to evaluate the antibiotic susceptibility profile of the confirmed isolates against 11 antibiotics commonly used against infections. MIC and MBC were determined using antibiotics (imipenem, tetracycline, and nalidixic acid) that high resistance was discovered. Checkerboard assay was used to carry out antibiotics combination assay, and the FICI was calculated. Rate of kill was also determined using ½ × MIC, 1 × MIC, and 2 × MIC concentrations of the combined antibiotics at 2 hr intervals. One hundred of the isolates were confirmed to be Vibrio parahaemolyticus, 82 were Vibrio vulnificus and 46 were Vibrio fluvialis. Twenty-two (22) percent of the Vibrio parahaemolyticus isolates showed resistance against tetracycline and their resistance against other antimicrobials is as follows; nalidixic acid (16 percent), ampicillin (14 percent), cefotaxime (14 percent), chloramphenicol (12 percent) and amikacin (11 percent). For Vibrio vulnificus, prevalence of resistance was as follows: imipenem (40 percent), tetracycline (22 percent), ampicillin (18 percent), meropenem (15 percent), and chloramphenicol (11 percent). Vibrio fluvialis showed the following resistance profile: nalidixic acid (28 percent), tetracycline (28percent), ampicillin (20 percent), chloramphenicol (15 percent), amikacin (11 percent) and cefotaxime (11 percent). About 38 multiple antibiotic resistance phenotypes (MARP) were recorded in all species that were evaluated. About 23 percent were resistant to over 3 antibiotics used. The multiple antibiotic resistant indices (MARI) ranged between 0.3 and 0.8. MIC and MBC were carried against isolates that were resistant to the two most common antibiotics tested. MIC and MBC were determined in the following order: tetracycline and nalidixic acid at concentrations ranging from 16 μg/ml to 1024 μg/ml for Vibrio parahaemolyticus and 32 μg/ml to 2048 μg/ml for Vibrio fluvialis. Also, the MIC and MBC of imipenem and tetracycline at concentrations ranging from 8 μg/ml to 256 μg/ml for Vibrio vulnificus were determined. Antibiotics combination therapy was carried out and synergistic activity was observed in 3 of the 16 resistant V. parahaemolyticus isolates, 3 of the16 resistant V. vulnificus isolates and 2 of the 13 resistant V. fluvialis isolates. Antagonism was not observed across all the drug combinations. Rate of kill was also determined and at 6 hr exposure time, the highest concentration (2 × MIC) exhibited bactericidal effect across all three Vibrio species. The result derived in this research, therefore, propose that combination therapy is a promising solution to antimicrobial resistance in Vibrio species. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ayodele, Oluwakemi Victoria
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Drug resistance in microorganisms , Vibrio cholerae
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20396 , vital:45661
- Description: Increased rate of antibiotic resistance (AR) poses a serious threat with a resultant notion of a possible end of the antibiotics era, making it a problem of concern to public health and a great implication on the world economy and human society. Despite many approaches developed to curb this menace, antibiotics resistance is still a challenge worldwide. This has made the use of combined therapy as one of the options in many cases. This study was conducted to assess antibiotics combination therapy as an option for the control of antimicrobial-resistant non-cholera causing Vibrio species that were recovered from the environment in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Two hundred and twenty-eight Vibrio species were recovered from the environment in the Province, and these were deposited in the archive of AEMREG. PCR was used to identify target Vibrio species. Disc diffusion method was used to evaluate the antibiotic susceptibility profile of the confirmed isolates against 11 antibiotics commonly used against infections. MIC and MBC were determined using antibiotics (imipenem, tetracycline, and nalidixic acid) that high resistance was discovered. Checkerboard assay was used to carry out antibiotics combination assay, and the FICI was calculated. Rate of kill was also determined using ½ × MIC, 1 × MIC, and 2 × MIC concentrations of the combined antibiotics at 2 hr intervals. One hundred of the isolates were confirmed to be Vibrio parahaemolyticus, 82 were Vibrio vulnificus and 46 were Vibrio fluvialis. Twenty-two (22) percent of the Vibrio parahaemolyticus isolates showed resistance against tetracycline and their resistance against other antimicrobials is as follows; nalidixic acid (16 percent), ampicillin (14 percent), cefotaxime (14 percent), chloramphenicol (12 percent) and amikacin (11 percent). For Vibrio vulnificus, prevalence of resistance was as follows: imipenem (40 percent), tetracycline (22 percent), ampicillin (18 percent), meropenem (15 percent), and chloramphenicol (11 percent). Vibrio fluvialis showed the following resistance profile: nalidixic acid (28 percent), tetracycline (28percent), ampicillin (20 percent), chloramphenicol (15 percent), amikacin (11 percent) and cefotaxime (11 percent). About 38 multiple antibiotic resistance phenotypes (MARP) were recorded in all species that were evaluated. About 23 percent were resistant to over 3 antibiotics used. The multiple antibiotic resistant indices (MARI) ranged between 0.3 and 0.8. MIC and MBC were carried against isolates that were resistant to the two most common antibiotics tested. MIC and MBC were determined in the following order: tetracycline and nalidixic acid at concentrations ranging from 16 μg/ml to 1024 μg/ml for Vibrio parahaemolyticus and 32 μg/ml to 2048 μg/ml for Vibrio fluvialis. Also, the MIC and MBC of imipenem and tetracycline at concentrations ranging from 8 μg/ml to 256 μg/ml for Vibrio vulnificus were determined. Antibiotics combination therapy was carried out and synergistic activity was observed in 3 of the 16 resistant V. parahaemolyticus isolates, 3 of the16 resistant V. vulnificus isolates and 2 of the 13 resistant V. fluvialis isolates. Antagonism was not observed across all the drug combinations. Rate of kill was also determined and at 6 hr exposure time, the highest concentration (2 × MIC) exhibited bactericidal effect across all three Vibrio species. The result derived in this research, therefore, propose that combination therapy is a promising solution to antimicrobial resistance in Vibrio species. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
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Barriers and reasons for exercise of rural and urban overweight and obese populations in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mrwebi, Thembani
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Obesity--Prevention , Public health--Exercise
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22522 , vital:52388
- Description: It is documented that obesity is highly prevalent across rural and urban groups in industrialised and underdeveloped countries. This problem is an alarming issue as community members remain unsure about avoiding risking their health. Various health surveys reveal that obesity has increased among communities in the Buffalo City Metro Municipality in the Eastern Cape, and it has consequently made communities vulnerable to non-communicable diseases. The researcher explored factors and barriers of exercise for rural and urban obese populations in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape. This study was descriptive and explorative, utilising a questionnaire for gathering information. A purposive sample of 80 members from the two selected communities completed the questionnaire. A factor analysis was performed to identify factors that motivate physical activity and barriers to physical activity. It was discovered that all evaluated members were fully aware of the harmful repercussions of being overweight or obese. Nevertheless, only a tiny percentage of those who took part in the study decided to live a healthier lifestyle because of their obesity. Constructive motivating factors included increasing their self-image, enhancing their wellbeing, and getting highly involved in active and regular exercise. Negative motivators included finding it challenging to fit into old clothes and the worry of developing obesity-related diseases. Respondents noted the following impediments in regular exercises and physical activities; African cultural values, limited operational hours of physical activity facilities, insufficient time, and a lack of enthusiasm. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mrwebi, Thembani
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Obesity--Prevention , Public health--Exercise
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22522 , vital:52388
- Description: It is documented that obesity is highly prevalent across rural and urban groups in industrialised and underdeveloped countries. This problem is an alarming issue as community members remain unsure about avoiding risking their health. Various health surveys reveal that obesity has increased among communities in the Buffalo City Metro Municipality in the Eastern Cape, and it has consequently made communities vulnerable to non-communicable diseases. The researcher explored factors and barriers of exercise for rural and urban obese populations in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape. This study was descriptive and explorative, utilising a questionnaire for gathering information. A purposive sample of 80 members from the two selected communities completed the questionnaire. A factor analysis was performed to identify factors that motivate physical activity and barriers to physical activity. It was discovered that all evaluated members were fully aware of the harmful repercussions of being overweight or obese. Nevertheless, only a tiny percentage of those who took part in the study decided to live a healthier lifestyle because of their obesity. Constructive motivating factors included increasing their self-image, enhancing their wellbeing, and getting highly involved in active and regular exercise. Negative motivators included finding it challenging to fit into old clothes and the worry of developing obesity-related diseases. Respondents noted the following impediments in regular exercises and physical activities; African cultural values, limited operational hours of physical activity facilities, insufficient time, and a lack of enthusiasm. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
Effect of fire frequency on the recovery of soil invertebrate communities in semi-arid savanna biome of the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Madikana, Ayabulela https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9119-4650
- Authors: Madikana, Ayabulela https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9119-4650
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Soil invertebrates , Fire ecology , Arid regions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22831 , vital:52946
- Description: Fires are common in South African savanna habitats, which can disrupt the dynamics of entire invertebrate populations, endangering biodiversity and the environment. The aim of this study was to look at how fire frequency affected invertebrate population dynamics and biodiversity in a 41-year-old fire experiment at the University of Fort Hare research farm in Alice. The experiment had six different levels of burning frequency: no-burn (K), annual burn (B1), biannual burn (B2), triennial burn (B3), quadrennial burn (B4), and sexennial burn (B6). The experimental plots were replicated two times in a randomized complete block design and have been continuously retained since 1980. A ground yellow mustard solution was used to collect earthworms, which were then identified by an earthworm taxonomist. Pitfall traps were used to collect ants and other insects, which were then identified under a microscope. In total, three soil samples were collected from each plot to assess selected soil nutrients, moisture, and pH. The Shannon diversity index, richness, and population of earthworms, ants, and other insects were calculated, and a one-way ANOVA analysis was done to check if the treatments differed significantly. A correlations study was used to look for any influence connected to soil parameters, including the Shannon diversity index, species richness, and density of soil invertebrates. According to our findings, the measured parameters did not show any significant differences in the measured parameters between the different frequency levels. All the plots had two species of earthworm , Proandricus timmianus and Proandricus beddardi except the biennial burn plot, which had all three, the afore mentioned species and one other unidentified species, Proandricus sp. The triennial burn treatment slightly enhanced the insect diversity, richness, and evenness of ant species difference while the diversity, evenness, and richness were lowest in the sexennial burn plot. However, there was no signif difference in population. After B4, the no burn plot had the second largest diversity and species richness, and the third highest species evenness and had a 100 percent species similarity index. The ants were evenly distributed in the no burn plot compared to the other plots, with K having a lower density than the other plots except for B4, K being slightly more diverse than B6, and B1 with a slightly lower diversity than the other plots, and it being the third species rich plot after B2 and B3, followed by the rest of the plots. This study implied that fire frequency has an insignificant impact on invertebrates’ communities in Savanna biomes words.icant , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Madikana, Ayabulela https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9119-4650
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Soil invertebrates , Fire ecology , Arid regions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22831 , vital:52946
- Description: Fires are common in South African savanna habitats, which can disrupt the dynamics of entire invertebrate populations, endangering biodiversity and the environment. The aim of this study was to look at how fire frequency affected invertebrate population dynamics and biodiversity in a 41-year-old fire experiment at the University of Fort Hare research farm in Alice. The experiment had six different levels of burning frequency: no-burn (K), annual burn (B1), biannual burn (B2), triennial burn (B3), quadrennial burn (B4), and sexennial burn (B6). The experimental plots were replicated two times in a randomized complete block design and have been continuously retained since 1980. A ground yellow mustard solution was used to collect earthworms, which were then identified by an earthworm taxonomist. Pitfall traps were used to collect ants and other insects, which were then identified under a microscope. In total, three soil samples were collected from each plot to assess selected soil nutrients, moisture, and pH. The Shannon diversity index, richness, and population of earthworms, ants, and other insects were calculated, and a one-way ANOVA analysis was done to check if the treatments differed significantly. A correlations study was used to look for any influence connected to soil parameters, including the Shannon diversity index, species richness, and density of soil invertebrates. According to our findings, the measured parameters did not show any significant differences in the measured parameters between the different frequency levels. All the plots had two species of earthworm , Proandricus timmianus and Proandricus beddardi except the biennial burn plot, which had all three, the afore mentioned species and one other unidentified species, Proandricus sp. The triennial burn treatment slightly enhanced the insect diversity, richness, and evenness of ant species difference while the diversity, evenness, and richness were lowest in the sexennial burn plot. However, there was no signif difference in population. After B4, the no burn plot had the second largest diversity and species richness, and the third highest species evenness and had a 100 percent species similarity index. The ants were evenly distributed in the no burn plot compared to the other plots, with K having a lower density than the other plots except for B4, K being slightly more diverse than B6, and B1 with a slightly lower diversity than the other plots, and it being the third species rich plot after B2 and B3, followed by the rest of the plots. This study implied that fire frequency has an insignificant impact on invertebrates’ communities in Savanna biomes words.icant , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
Evaluation of anti-diabetic activity of selected red marine macro-algae found along South African coastal areas
- Bambo, Karabo https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3721-2424
- Authors: Bambo, Karabo https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3721-2424
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Marine algae , Phytochemicals
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22533 , vital:52405
- Description: Marine macro-algae are a good source of potential primary and secondary metabolites. Phytochemicals of the samples were extracted using methanol and water. This study evaluated the phytochemical constituents, antioxidant activity and antidiabetic activity of selected red marine macro-algae sampled from Gqeberha, South Africa. The species collected were identified as Gelidium pristoides, Scinaia furcellata and Portieria tripinita using DNA barcoding. Results showed the presence of several phytochemicals such as saponins, phenols, flavonols, tannins, proanthocyanidins and flavonoids. Methanol was a more effective polyphenol extraction solvent than water. Gelidium pristoides (H2O) was observed to contain the highest phenol and proanthocyanidin content, which correlated to Gelidium pristoides (H2O) having the greatest FRAP and DPPH radical scavenging activity IC50 at 0.227. Portieria tripinita (MeOH) extract had the greatest flavonoid content. Flavonol content was high for Scinaia furcellata while the highest tannin content was observed in both H2O and MeOH extracts of Gelidium pristoides. All the selected marine macro-algae species showed concentration-dependent reducing power. The extract with the highest ABTS scavenging activity was Gelidium pristoides (MeOH) IC50 at 0.227. Portieria tripinita was the only species that showed Nitric oxide scavenging activity, with (H2O) extract showing the highest activity IC50 at 3.052. Only MeOH extracts of Gelidium pristoides and Scinaia furcellata showed very slight α-amylase inhibition, however, all extracts successfully inhibited the activity of α-glucosidase with the exception of the H2O extracts of Scinaia furcellata. All crude extracts of Gelidium pristoides, Scinaia furcellata and Portieria tripinita showed no significant/weak effect on glucose uptake and utilization by C3A cells following 24 hours of treatment, with the exception of the aqueous extracts of Scinaia furcellata at the highest concentration of 100 μg/ml. The in-vitro MTT cytotoxicity assay revealed that only MeOH extracts of Gelidium pristoides and Scinaia furcellata had a 15 significant toxic effect on C3A hepatocytes at concentrations of 100 μg/ml and 25μg/ml, respectively. Portieria tripinita aqueous extract showed cytotoxicity when evaluated using Hoechst 33342/Propidium iodide (PI) dual staining. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Bambo, Karabo https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3721-2424
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Marine algae , Phytochemicals
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22533 , vital:52405
- Description: Marine macro-algae are a good source of potential primary and secondary metabolites. Phytochemicals of the samples were extracted using methanol and water. This study evaluated the phytochemical constituents, antioxidant activity and antidiabetic activity of selected red marine macro-algae sampled from Gqeberha, South Africa. The species collected were identified as Gelidium pristoides, Scinaia furcellata and Portieria tripinita using DNA barcoding. Results showed the presence of several phytochemicals such as saponins, phenols, flavonols, tannins, proanthocyanidins and flavonoids. Methanol was a more effective polyphenol extraction solvent than water. Gelidium pristoides (H2O) was observed to contain the highest phenol and proanthocyanidin content, which correlated to Gelidium pristoides (H2O) having the greatest FRAP and DPPH radical scavenging activity IC50 at 0.227. Portieria tripinita (MeOH) extract had the greatest flavonoid content. Flavonol content was high for Scinaia furcellata while the highest tannin content was observed in both H2O and MeOH extracts of Gelidium pristoides. All the selected marine macro-algae species showed concentration-dependent reducing power. The extract with the highest ABTS scavenging activity was Gelidium pristoides (MeOH) IC50 at 0.227. Portieria tripinita was the only species that showed Nitric oxide scavenging activity, with (H2O) extract showing the highest activity IC50 at 3.052. Only MeOH extracts of Gelidium pristoides and Scinaia furcellata showed very slight α-amylase inhibition, however, all extracts successfully inhibited the activity of α-glucosidase with the exception of the H2O extracts of Scinaia furcellata. All crude extracts of Gelidium pristoides, Scinaia furcellata and Portieria tripinita showed no significant/weak effect on glucose uptake and utilization by C3A cells following 24 hours of treatment, with the exception of the aqueous extracts of Scinaia furcellata at the highest concentration of 100 μg/ml. The in-vitro MTT cytotoxicity assay revealed that only MeOH extracts of Gelidium pristoides and Scinaia furcellata had a 15 significant toxic effect on C3A hepatocytes at concentrations of 100 μg/ml and 25μg/ml, respectively. Portieria tripinita aqueous extract showed cytotoxicity when evaluated using Hoechst 33342/Propidium iodide (PI) dual staining. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
Grade 3 teachers’ strategies for developing learners’ reading comprehension skills in bilingual classrooms in Idutywa Education District
- Authors: Mzendana, Tembela Rosemary
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Reading (Primary) , Reading comprehension
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20119 , vital:45281
- Description: Learners’ low literacy achievements with regard to reading and writing in early schooling in South Africa remain a concern, particularly in the Foundation Phase. With regard to reading, amongst other things, Foundation Phase learners have been found to be “barking” at the text. That is an indication that they are struggling with achieving and grasping the main goal and purpose of reading, which is comprehension. In this dissertation, I explore the reading strategies teachers utilise in their grade 3 classrooms when teaching IsiXhosa and English. Participants for this study were grade 3 teachers from 2 different public schools in Idutywa District and grade 3 learners from 2 different public schools in Idutywa district. This qualitative study thus sought to investigate Grade 3 teachers’ strategies for developing learners’ reading comprehension skills in bilingual classrooms in two schools in the Idutywa Education District. Data was generated through semi-structured interviews. Amongst other issues, findings of the study revealed the following: participants reported valuing reading as an important skill that learners need to acquire academic success. Teachers demonstrated some understanding of how reading lessons are sequenced and paced. This study, thus, recommends that if learners are to acquire bilingual reading comprehension skills, both target languages should be valued and teachers be equipped on how to use these languages as resources in the classroom. , Thesis (MEd.) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mzendana, Tembela Rosemary
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Reading (Primary) , Reading comprehension
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20119 , vital:45281
- Description: Learners’ low literacy achievements with regard to reading and writing in early schooling in South Africa remain a concern, particularly in the Foundation Phase. With regard to reading, amongst other things, Foundation Phase learners have been found to be “barking” at the text. That is an indication that they are struggling with achieving and grasping the main goal and purpose of reading, which is comprehension. In this dissertation, I explore the reading strategies teachers utilise in their grade 3 classrooms when teaching IsiXhosa and English. Participants for this study were grade 3 teachers from 2 different public schools in Idutywa District and grade 3 learners from 2 different public schools in Idutywa district. This qualitative study thus sought to investigate Grade 3 teachers’ strategies for developing learners’ reading comprehension skills in bilingual classrooms in two schools in the Idutywa Education District. Data was generated through semi-structured interviews. Amongst other issues, findings of the study revealed the following: participants reported valuing reading as an important skill that learners need to acquire academic success. Teachers demonstrated some understanding of how reading lessons are sequenced and paced. This study, thus, recommends that if learners are to acquire bilingual reading comprehension skills, both target languages should be valued and teachers be equipped on how to use these languages as resources in the classroom. , Thesis (MEd.) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
Participation of stakeholders in the rationalisation of schools: a case of closure and merger of schools in the Amatole West Education District of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa.
- Authors: Mahanjana, Litha Lennox
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Public school closings
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20108 , vital:45274
- Description: The Department of Basic Education (DBE) in South Africa has shut down many public schools in the last few years and several other township and rural schools face imminent closure. The major reason adduced for this disturbing development is the increasing reduction of pupils because of poor performance. However, it is not clear whether all stakeholders are involved in the school rationalisation programme. Schools are custodians of children’s education and thus stakeholders such as parents, teachers, learners, community members and traditional leaders are important stakeholders in the education system and therefore, should participate fully in policy development and implementation processes. This study investigated how stakeholders in the school system such as teachers, learners, parents, and traditional leaders participated in the implementation of the school rationalisation policy. Using a qualitative approach within the interpretive research paradigm, the study investigated the case of two secondary schools that were closed and merged in the Amatole West Education District of the Eastern Cape Province. The researcher adopted this research approach because of its exploratory, descriptive, and contextual nature. A non-probability purposive sample was selected from the categories of teachers, learners and parents including traditional leaders of the communities of the two schools that were investigated. Data was collected using semi-structured face-to-face interviews and focus group discussions, while the content analysis technique was used to analyse the data. The data collected and analysed was also tested for its trustworthiness and ethical imperatives were also considered. The study revealed a lack of proper consultation of stakeholders prior to and during the implementation of school rationalisation policy. The DoE, to give an impression that stakeholders participated, in order to comply with the legislation, adopted a pseudo-participation strategy. This lack of consultation and pseudo-participation of stakeholders declared their participation as undemocratic. As a result, many challenges emerged and there were also unintended consequences that manifested themselves in the process. These findings were then translated into conclusions. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended that the authorities should consult with the relevant stakeholders and create platforms that will allow them to express their views about any proposed school rationalisation policy before it can be implemented. The DoE should also consider all relevant legislative imperatives before embarking to the implementation of its decision to close or merge schools. In compelling situations where school closures are necessary, the anticipated social and economic impacts and unintended impacts on learners must be planned and mitigated before the school closure policy can be implemented. Lastly, the relevant authorities should develop an alternative policy framework to address the gaps and challenges that manifested themselves during the implementation of the current school rationalisation policy framework. Recommendations for further research like widening the scope of the investigation to in include primary schools, urban schools and participants from the district office were also proposed. , Thesis (MEd.) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mahanjana, Litha Lennox
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Public school closings
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20108 , vital:45274
- Description: The Department of Basic Education (DBE) in South Africa has shut down many public schools in the last few years and several other township and rural schools face imminent closure. The major reason adduced for this disturbing development is the increasing reduction of pupils because of poor performance. However, it is not clear whether all stakeholders are involved in the school rationalisation programme. Schools are custodians of children’s education and thus stakeholders such as parents, teachers, learners, community members and traditional leaders are important stakeholders in the education system and therefore, should participate fully in policy development and implementation processes. This study investigated how stakeholders in the school system such as teachers, learners, parents, and traditional leaders participated in the implementation of the school rationalisation policy. Using a qualitative approach within the interpretive research paradigm, the study investigated the case of two secondary schools that were closed and merged in the Amatole West Education District of the Eastern Cape Province. The researcher adopted this research approach because of its exploratory, descriptive, and contextual nature. A non-probability purposive sample was selected from the categories of teachers, learners and parents including traditional leaders of the communities of the two schools that were investigated. Data was collected using semi-structured face-to-face interviews and focus group discussions, while the content analysis technique was used to analyse the data. The data collected and analysed was also tested for its trustworthiness and ethical imperatives were also considered. The study revealed a lack of proper consultation of stakeholders prior to and during the implementation of school rationalisation policy. The DoE, to give an impression that stakeholders participated, in order to comply with the legislation, adopted a pseudo-participation strategy. This lack of consultation and pseudo-participation of stakeholders declared their participation as undemocratic. As a result, many challenges emerged and there were also unintended consequences that manifested themselves in the process. These findings were then translated into conclusions. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended that the authorities should consult with the relevant stakeholders and create platforms that will allow them to express their views about any proposed school rationalisation policy before it can be implemented. The DoE should also consider all relevant legislative imperatives before embarking to the implementation of its decision to close or merge schools. In compelling situations where school closures are necessary, the anticipated social and economic impacts and unintended impacts on learners must be planned and mitigated before the school closure policy can be implemented. Lastly, the relevant authorities should develop an alternative policy framework to address the gaps and challenges that manifested themselves during the implementation of the current school rationalisation policy framework. Recommendations for further research like widening the scope of the investigation to in include primary schools, urban schools and participants from the district office were also proposed. , Thesis (MEd.) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
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