Anthropometric, physiological and biochemical parameters in relation to perceived stress and lifestyle diseases among correctional services staff in the Amathole Region, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Matshikiza, Ondela Innocent https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9326-6697
- Authors: Matshikiza, Ondela Innocent https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9326-6697
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Correctional personnel , Lifestyles -- Diseases
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22082 , vital:51981
- Description: Background: The prevalence of overweight and obesity has risen significantly in the past three decades, with marked variations across countries in the levels and trends in overweight and obesity with distinct regional patterns. Physical inactivity has increased in South Africa as the country develops, with increasing urbanization and modernization, technology, and low physical activities at workplaces. Correctional Services staff tend to suffer from chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes mellitus, orthopaedic conditions, high cholesterol, overweight, and obesity due to insufficient physical activity engagement. Aims and objectives: The study aimed to assess the anthropometric, physiological, biochemical parameters in relation to stress and lifestyle diseases of correctional services staff in the Amathole region, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 81 Correctional Services Staff in the Amathole Region, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The employees' health status, anthropometric, physiological, biochemical parameters, and perceived stress were assessed. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Data were expressed as mean +/- SD for quantitative variables or numbers and percentages for categorical variables. An independent sample T-test was used to assess statistical differences between males and female correctional service staff. Pearson correlation was used to determine the relationship strength and linearity of the anthropometric, physiological, and biochemical parameters. A direct logistic regression was employed to predict the indicator variable. Results: The results showed that just over two-thirds (67%) of the participants reported not being ready for exercise. Nearly 94% of the study population were categorized as either overweight, obese, severely obese, or morbidly obese. Approximately three-quarters (74%) of the respondents reported moderate to high- perceived stress levels. Approximately 40% of the population were at risk determined by the Waist to Hip Ratio. Furthermore, waist circumference, 43% and 77% of the study population were categorized as obese, male and female participants, respectively. Over three-quarters, (79%) of the study population were diagnosed with elevated high pressure, stage 1 and 2 hypertension, or a hypertensive crisis. A minimum of 18% and 17.3% of the study population were diagnosed with Pre-diabetic and Type 2 diabetes mellitus, respectively. An analysis of gender group differences showed overweight, obesity, and Body Fat Percentages were prevalent among females. The results further showed a positive increase in abdominal fat accumulation with age; thus, the Weight Circumference of the participants was significantly high. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was common among male and female correctional services staff, with a significantly lower Body Fat Percentage for males compared to females. However, upon further investigation, males' Waist to Hip Ratio was significantly higher than for female correctional services staff. Perceived stress scores for male participants were significantly lower compared to female participants. An analysis of staff member group differences showed that support staff's body fat percentage was significantly lower than top management and middle management groups. There was also a statistical difference in the Waist to Hip Ratio for the three managerial groups. More than three-quarters of the correctional services staff were classified with moderate (65.4%) to highstress levels (8.6%). Direct logistic regression was performed to assess the influence of several independent variables on the likelihood that participants would be classified as Obese. The results indicated that 80.2% of the participants were correctly classified before the model was conducted. Another direct logistic regression analysis was employed to predict stress among Correctional Services Staff found that age made a statistically significant contribution to the model, while the most robust predictor to report high stress was not getting enough exercise. Conclusion: Overweight and obesity are prevalent among Correctional Services Staff, putting them at risk for developing lifestyle-related diseases. Workplace health promotion is significant in preventing non-communicable diseases among Correctional Services Staff to reduce medical costs, increase disability incidents, reduce morbidity, mortality and improve work productivity. The role of physical exercise in the development of stress and decreasing obesity is central to addressing these issues in the workplace. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, Human Movement Science, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
- Authors: Matshikiza, Ondela Innocent https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9326-6697
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Correctional personnel , Lifestyles -- Diseases
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22082 , vital:51981
- Description: Background: The prevalence of overweight and obesity has risen significantly in the past three decades, with marked variations across countries in the levels and trends in overweight and obesity with distinct regional patterns. Physical inactivity has increased in South Africa as the country develops, with increasing urbanization and modernization, technology, and low physical activities at workplaces. Correctional Services staff tend to suffer from chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes mellitus, orthopaedic conditions, high cholesterol, overweight, and obesity due to insufficient physical activity engagement. Aims and objectives: The study aimed to assess the anthropometric, physiological, biochemical parameters in relation to stress and lifestyle diseases of correctional services staff in the Amathole region, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 81 Correctional Services Staff in the Amathole Region, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The employees' health status, anthropometric, physiological, biochemical parameters, and perceived stress were assessed. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Data were expressed as mean +/- SD for quantitative variables or numbers and percentages for categorical variables. An independent sample T-test was used to assess statistical differences between males and female correctional service staff. Pearson correlation was used to determine the relationship strength and linearity of the anthropometric, physiological, and biochemical parameters. A direct logistic regression was employed to predict the indicator variable. Results: The results showed that just over two-thirds (67%) of the participants reported not being ready for exercise. Nearly 94% of the study population were categorized as either overweight, obese, severely obese, or morbidly obese. Approximately three-quarters (74%) of the respondents reported moderate to high- perceived stress levels. Approximately 40% of the population were at risk determined by the Waist to Hip Ratio. Furthermore, waist circumference, 43% and 77% of the study population were categorized as obese, male and female participants, respectively. Over three-quarters, (79%) of the study population were diagnosed with elevated high pressure, stage 1 and 2 hypertension, or a hypertensive crisis. A minimum of 18% and 17.3% of the study population were diagnosed with Pre-diabetic and Type 2 diabetes mellitus, respectively. An analysis of gender group differences showed overweight, obesity, and Body Fat Percentages were prevalent among females. The results further showed a positive increase in abdominal fat accumulation with age; thus, the Weight Circumference of the participants was significantly high. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was common among male and female correctional services staff, with a significantly lower Body Fat Percentage for males compared to females. However, upon further investigation, males' Waist to Hip Ratio was significantly higher than for female correctional services staff. Perceived stress scores for male participants were significantly lower compared to female participants. An analysis of staff member group differences showed that support staff's body fat percentage was significantly lower than top management and middle management groups. There was also a statistical difference in the Waist to Hip Ratio for the three managerial groups. More than three-quarters of the correctional services staff were classified with moderate (65.4%) to highstress levels (8.6%). Direct logistic regression was performed to assess the influence of several independent variables on the likelihood that participants would be classified as Obese. The results indicated that 80.2% of the participants were correctly classified before the model was conducted. Another direct logistic regression analysis was employed to predict stress among Correctional Services Staff found that age made a statistically significant contribution to the model, while the most robust predictor to report high stress was not getting enough exercise. Conclusion: Overweight and obesity are prevalent among Correctional Services Staff, putting them at risk for developing lifestyle-related diseases. Workplace health promotion is significant in preventing non-communicable diseases among Correctional Services Staff to reduce medical costs, increase disability incidents, reduce morbidity, mortality and improve work productivity. The role of physical exercise in the development of stress and decreasing obesity is central to addressing these issues in the workplace. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, Human Movement Science, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
Chemical evaluation, in vitro ruminal dry matter (DM) degradability and ruminal biological activity of common browse tree fruits of Alice
- Authors: Sondzaba, Bavuyise
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Ruminants
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20882 , vital:46695
- Description: The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of species variations on chemical composition and in vitro ruminal degradability of Vachellia karroo, Grewia Occidentalis, Diospyros Lycioides and Ziziphus Mucronata fruits harvested from communally grazed lands in Alice, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The browse fruits were collected between February and May and analysed for crude protein (CP), dry matter (DM), ash, neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF), organic matter (OM) and acid detergent lignin (ADL), condensed tannins (CT), macro minerals (Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Potassium (K), Sodium (Na) and Phosphorus(P)) and micro minerals (Ion (Fe), Zinc (Zn), Manganese (Mn) and Copper (Cu)). There was significant variation (P<0.05) in chemical composition between browse fruits. The CP content differed significantly amongst the browse fruits, but all contained enough to meet the maintenance requirements of ruminants. Fruits from V. Karroo had higher (P<0.05) CP (182.26 g/kg DM), DM (896.50 g/kg DM) and ash (55.60 g/kg DM) contents compared to other browse species, while D. Lycioides fruits had higher (P<0.05) OM (951.60 g/kg DM) content than other browse fruits. Fruits harvested from G. Occidentalis had higher (P<0.05) ADF (513.27 g/kg DM), NDF (577.22 g/kg DM) and ADL (223.20 g/kg DM) content compared to other browse fruits. Fruits from V. Karroo had higher (P<0.05) CT (269.33 g/kg DM) content followed by Z. Mucronata (187.46 g/kg DM), while D. Lycioide (54.22 g/kg DM) and G. Occidentali (66.65 g/kg DM) had the same CT contents (P>0.05). There was a significant variation between browse species in macro and micro mineral contents. Fruits from G. Occindelis (43.93 g/kg DM) and V. Karroo (43.44 g/kg DM) had higher (P<0.05) Ca content compared to Z. Mucronata (24.06 g/kg DM) and D. Lycioides (20.06 g/kg DM). Ziziphus Muronata had higher (P<0.05) P (1.96 g/kg DM) content than other browse fruits. Fruits form V.karroo had higher Mg (4.75 g/kg DM), K (11.50 g/kg DM) and Na 3888 g/kg DM) content compared to other browse species. Fruits from V. Karroo showed significantly higher micro mineral content compared to other species. In terms of dry matter degradability (DMD), incubation time had an apparent effect on degradability of browse fruits except at 4 hours. The DM degradability increased with the increase of time and after 48 hours DMD was found to be satisfactory since it was above the prescribed 40 to 50 percent. However, the presence of condensed tannins had an effect on ruminal degradability of browse fruits. It was concluded that browse fruits have the potential to be used as protein supplements during the dry season since they contain moderate levels of crude protein. However, caution should be taken when feeding these browse fruits since they contain condensed tannins that affect rumen degradability. , Thesis (MSc) (Chemistry) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
- Authors: Sondzaba, Bavuyise
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Ruminants
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20882 , vital:46695
- Description: The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of species variations on chemical composition and in vitro ruminal degradability of Vachellia karroo, Grewia Occidentalis, Diospyros Lycioides and Ziziphus Mucronata fruits harvested from communally grazed lands in Alice, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The browse fruits were collected between February and May and analysed for crude protein (CP), dry matter (DM), ash, neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF), organic matter (OM) and acid detergent lignin (ADL), condensed tannins (CT), macro minerals (Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Potassium (K), Sodium (Na) and Phosphorus(P)) and micro minerals (Ion (Fe), Zinc (Zn), Manganese (Mn) and Copper (Cu)). There was significant variation (P<0.05) in chemical composition between browse fruits. The CP content differed significantly amongst the browse fruits, but all contained enough to meet the maintenance requirements of ruminants. Fruits from V. Karroo had higher (P<0.05) CP (182.26 g/kg DM), DM (896.50 g/kg DM) and ash (55.60 g/kg DM) contents compared to other browse species, while D. Lycioides fruits had higher (P<0.05) OM (951.60 g/kg DM) content than other browse fruits. Fruits harvested from G. Occidentalis had higher (P<0.05) ADF (513.27 g/kg DM), NDF (577.22 g/kg DM) and ADL (223.20 g/kg DM) content compared to other browse fruits. Fruits from V. Karroo had higher (P<0.05) CT (269.33 g/kg DM) content followed by Z. Mucronata (187.46 g/kg DM), while D. Lycioide (54.22 g/kg DM) and G. Occidentali (66.65 g/kg DM) had the same CT contents (P>0.05). There was a significant variation between browse species in macro and micro mineral contents. Fruits from G. Occindelis (43.93 g/kg DM) and V. Karroo (43.44 g/kg DM) had higher (P<0.05) Ca content compared to Z. Mucronata (24.06 g/kg DM) and D. Lycioides (20.06 g/kg DM). Ziziphus Muronata had higher (P<0.05) P (1.96 g/kg DM) content than other browse fruits. Fruits form V.karroo had higher Mg (4.75 g/kg DM), K (11.50 g/kg DM) and Na 3888 g/kg DM) content compared to other browse species. Fruits from V. Karroo showed significantly higher micro mineral content compared to other species. In terms of dry matter degradability (DMD), incubation time had an apparent effect on degradability of browse fruits except at 4 hours. The DM degradability increased with the increase of time and after 48 hours DMD was found to be satisfactory since it was above the prescribed 40 to 50 percent. However, the presence of condensed tannins had an effect on ruminal degradability of browse fruits. It was concluded that browse fruits have the potential to be used as protein supplements during the dry season since they contain moderate levels of crude protein. However, caution should be taken when feeding these browse fruits since they contain condensed tannins that affect rumen degradability. , Thesis (MSc) (Chemistry) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
Cost cutting measures for the maintenance of hospital medical equipment in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Mabentsela, Bonga https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9259-849X
- Authors: Mabentsela, Bonga https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9259-849X
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Finance, Public , Health services administration , Maps
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20094 , vital:45152
- Description: The Eastern Cape Department of Health is located in Bisho, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa and about 88 percent of the EC population is serviced by the public health sector. Most of the facilities are situated in remote areas and for the maintenance of medical equipment they rely on the service of the few private equipment vendors that are situated in two cities, East London and Port Elizabeth and in some instances these vendors are located in Gauteng province. The location of vendors makes it difficult and impossible for these medical equipment vendors to render the acceptable service to the Department. This study was undertaken to systematically study the cost cutting measures of medical equipment department of health, Eastern Cape. A quantitative method approach was used using exploratory and descriptive research design during the 2019-20 financial year (April 2019 to March 2020). The sample for this study was limited to managers who have the ability to provide the information about the acquisition, maintenance and management of medical equipment. The total sample size was 100. The major finding was that outsourcing is not feasible. The respondents preferred insourcing, standardisation of medical equipment and procuring equipment with comprehensive maintenance contracts. The findings from the study were that the Department will cut costs associated with medical equipment if maintenance of medical equipment is in-sourced, equipment is standardized and equipment is procured with maintenance contracts. The study recommended that the Department should revisit some of its medical equipment maintenance strategies and draw up comprehensive interventions to reduce costs associated with maintenance of medical equipment and improve service delivery in the Department. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
- Authors: Mabentsela, Bonga https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9259-849X
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Finance, Public , Health services administration , Maps
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20094 , vital:45152
- Description: The Eastern Cape Department of Health is located in Bisho, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa and about 88 percent of the EC population is serviced by the public health sector. Most of the facilities are situated in remote areas and for the maintenance of medical equipment they rely on the service of the few private equipment vendors that are situated in two cities, East London and Port Elizabeth and in some instances these vendors are located in Gauteng province. The location of vendors makes it difficult and impossible for these medical equipment vendors to render the acceptable service to the Department. This study was undertaken to systematically study the cost cutting measures of medical equipment department of health, Eastern Cape. A quantitative method approach was used using exploratory and descriptive research design during the 2019-20 financial year (April 2019 to March 2020). The sample for this study was limited to managers who have the ability to provide the information about the acquisition, maintenance and management of medical equipment. The total sample size was 100. The major finding was that outsourcing is not feasible. The respondents preferred insourcing, standardisation of medical equipment and procuring equipment with comprehensive maintenance contracts. The findings from the study were that the Department will cut costs associated with medical equipment if maintenance of medical equipment is in-sourced, equipment is standardized and equipment is procured with maintenance contracts. The study recommended that the Department should revisit some of its medical equipment maintenance strategies and draw up comprehensive interventions to reduce costs associated with maintenance of medical equipment and improve service delivery in the Department. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
Effects of the use of manipulative materials on grade nine learners’ performance in fractions in public high schools in Chris Hani West Education District, South Africa
- Authors: Adom, George
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching -- Activity programs , Acalculia in children
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19371 , vital:43058
- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of the use of manipulative concrete materials on grade 9 learners’ performance in fractions in public high schools in Chris Hani west education district, in the Eastern Cape Province of the Republic of South Africa. Two hundred and fifty (250) grade nine (9) learners, whose ages ranged between 13-16 years, and ten (10) educators teaching grade nine mathematics, were selected from 40 public high schools with the use of stratified, systematic random sampling, convenience and purposive sampling methods. One hundred and twenty-five (125) learners were put into the experimental group, and another one hundred and twenty-five (125) learners were put into a control group through systematic random sampling method. Pre-test, Post-test, and Control group quasi-experimental design were used as research designs to collect data. Two research instruments were developed. These included: A Fractions Achievement Test (FAT), and Students Questionnaire on Manipulative Concrete Materials (SQMCM). The experimental group were taught with the Manipulative Concrete Materials (Cuisenaire rods, Fraction bar/Fraction title, Paper folding and Computer assisted manipulative), whilst the control group was taught through the lecture method. Four (4) null hypotheses were generated and tested at 0.05 level of significance. The data collected were analysed using Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) to find the Mean, Standard Deviation and t-test. The mean and standard deviation were used to compare the pre-test and post-test results between the Experimental group and the Control group. The analysed results of the means, standard deviations and t-tests were used to reject the null hypotheses. The analysed results were illustrated as followed: Cuisenaire rods pre-test (mean = 8.372, SD=1.770), post-test (mean = 12,428, SD=4.732), t=13,024 p< 0.05. Hypothesis (H01) was rejected : Fraction tiles/fraction bars pre-test (mean = 8.372, SD=1.770), post-test (mean = 11,42, SD=3.67), t=12,10 p< 0.05. Hypothesis (H02) was rejected : Paper folding pre-test (mean = 8.372, SD=1.770), post-test (mean = 11,792, SD=4.256), t=12,024 p< 0.05. Hypothesis (H03) was rejected : Computer assisted manipulative pre-test (mean = 8.372, SD=1.770), post-test (mean = 12,212, SD=4.569), t=12,801 p< 0.05. Hypothesis (H04) was also rejected. The comparison of the mean scores and iv standard deviation between the Experimental groups and Control groups indicated that there was no significant difference in the Pre-test in all cases. On the other hand, the mean scores and standard deviations between the Experimental group and Control group in the Post-test showed a vast difference in all cases. There were improvement in the mean scores, and slightly difference in the standard deviations in the Experimental groups, whilst there were drops in the mean scores and standard deviations of the Control groups in all cases. From the studies, there was an indication that manipulative concrete materials have significant effects on grade nine learner’s performance in fractions. It was therefore suggested that manipulative concrete materials should be incorporated into the instructions of fractions in mathematics. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
- Authors: Adom, George
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching -- Activity programs , Acalculia in children
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19371 , vital:43058
- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of the use of manipulative concrete materials on grade 9 learners’ performance in fractions in public high schools in Chris Hani west education district, in the Eastern Cape Province of the Republic of South Africa. Two hundred and fifty (250) grade nine (9) learners, whose ages ranged between 13-16 years, and ten (10) educators teaching grade nine mathematics, were selected from 40 public high schools with the use of stratified, systematic random sampling, convenience and purposive sampling methods. One hundred and twenty-five (125) learners were put into the experimental group, and another one hundred and twenty-five (125) learners were put into a control group through systematic random sampling method. Pre-test, Post-test, and Control group quasi-experimental design were used as research designs to collect data. Two research instruments were developed. These included: A Fractions Achievement Test (FAT), and Students Questionnaire on Manipulative Concrete Materials (SQMCM). The experimental group were taught with the Manipulative Concrete Materials (Cuisenaire rods, Fraction bar/Fraction title, Paper folding and Computer assisted manipulative), whilst the control group was taught through the lecture method. Four (4) null hypotheses were generated and tested at 0.05 level of significance. The data collected were analysed using Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) to find the Mean, Standard Deviation and t-test. The mean and standard deviation were used to compare the pre-test and post-test results between the Experimental group and the Control group. The analysed results of the means, standard deviations and t-tests were used to reject the null hypotheses. The analysed results were illustrated as followed: Cuisenaire rods pre-test (mean = 8.372, SD=1.770), post-test (mean = 12,428, SD=4.732), t=13,024 p< 0.05. Hypothesis (H01) was rejected : Fraction tiles/fraction bars pre-test (mean = 8.372, SD=1.770), post-test (mean = 11,42, SD=3.67), t=12,10 p< 0.05. Hypothesis (H02) was rejected : Paper folding pre-test (mean = 8.372, SD=1.770), post-test (mean = 11,792, SD=4.256), t=12,024 p< 0.05. Hypothesis (H03) was rejected : Computer assisted manipulative pre-test (mean = 8.372, SD=1.770), post-test (mean = 12,212, SD=4.569), t=12,801 p< 0.05. Hypothesis (H04) was also rejected. The comparison of the mean scores and iv standard deviation between the Experimental groups and Control groups indicated that there was no significant difference in the Pre-test in all cases. On the other hand, the mean scores and standard deviations between the Experimental group and Control group in the Post-test showed a vast difference in all cases. There were improvement in the mean scores, and slightly difference in the standard deviations in the Experimental groups, whilst there were drops in the mean scores and standard deviations of the Control groups in all cases. From the studies, there was an indication that manipulative concrete materials have significant effects on grade nine learner’s performance in fractions. It was therefore suggested that manipulative concrete materials should be incorporated into the instructions of fractions in mathematics. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
Enablements and constraints of articulation arrangements and agreements between technical and vocational education and training colleges and one Comprehensive University in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Mantashe, Lunga Xolisa https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1711-8358
- Authors: Mantashe, Lunga Xolisa https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1711-8358
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Articulation (Education) , Technical education , Vocational education
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21624 , vital:51736
- Description: This study explored enablements and constraints of Articulation Arrangements and Agreements (AAAs) between Technical and Vocational Education and Training Colleges (TVETs) and one Comprehensive University (CU) in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The constructs of structure, culture, and agency as propounded by Margaret Archer were employed as the theoretical lens of the study. Each of Archer’s constructs is independent and their dynamic interplay has causal influence on whether AAAs are facilitated or hindered. A qualitative single embedded case study design was applied, owing to the interpretivist paradigm the research chose. To this end, seven participants were purposively chosen and interviewed, and two university documents were analyzed, namely the draft University Articulation Guidelines (UAGs) and the university general prospectus. It was found that there were no formal, written, or even verbal TVET-CU agreements. Articulation happened on an ad hoc basis. The change of role-players in the institutional role array played a role in the non-existence and collapse of AAAs. On admissions, challenges included disparate requirements between National Senior Certificate and National Certificate Vocational. Nevertheless, articulation-enabling practices manifested themselves in the credit transfer decisions of participants. However, the Work Integrated Learning (WIL) component of a TVET national diploma programme enjoyed no parity with non-TVET and university cosrordinated experiential learning in some departments. In addition, there were nuanced views over the (inherent) value of WIL which affected its ultimate treatment. Finally, the study found that though TVET-university national diploma programmes were somewhat similar and enabled AAAs, they were still misaligned at the level of design and interface, resulting in duplication of content, waste of time, and state resources. The university also did not have TVET programmes in mind in the design and review of programmes. The researcher deduced a conceptual framework for understanding and explaining how and why TVET-university AAAs succeed or fail. The framework touts the importance of having knowledgeable, articulation- cultured and acculturated leadership and officials (responsible for admissions, credit transfer, and RPL) as crucial for exploiting structural enablements and creatively circumventing inherent structural constraints, including challenging subtle ideas which may wittingly or unwittingly harbor views of TVET programmes as inferior. To this end, it is suggested that there be an establishment of an articulation office to coordinate AAAs that take a form of a hybrid model whereby there would be a combination of multilateral, direct in-house, and franchise TVET-CCU AAAs. The framework should also resolve programme design alignment issues by incorporating CAT and RPL principles, including other articulation instruments during curriculum analysis. RPL should equally be applied in the treatment of TVET WIL. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
- Authors: Mantashe, Lunga Xolisa https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1711-8358
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Articulation (Education) , Technical education , Vocational education
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21624 , vital:51736
- Description: This study explored enablements and constraints of Articulation Arrangements and Agreements (AAAs) between Technical and Vocational Education and Training Colleges (TVETs) and one Comprehensive University (CU) in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The constructs of structure, culture, and agency as propounded by Margaret Archer were employed as the theoretical lens of the study. Each of Archer’s constructs is independent and their dynamic interplay has causal influence on whether AAAs are facilitated or hindered. A qualitative single embedded case study design was applied, owing to the interpretivist paradigm the research chose. To this end, seven participants were purposively chosen and interviewed, and two university documents were analyzed, namely the draft University Articulation Guidelines (UAGs) and the university general prospectus. It was found that there were no formal, written, or even verbal TVET-CU agreements. Articulation happened on an ad hoc basis. The change of role-players in the institutional role array played a role in the non-existence and collapse of AAAs. On admissions, challenges included disparate requirements between National Senior Certificate and National Certificate Vocational. Nevertheless, articulation-enabling practices manifested themselves in the credit transfer decisions of participants. However, the Work Integrated Learning (WIL) component of a TVET national diploma programme enjoyed no parity with non-TVET and university cosrordinated experiential learning in some departments. In addition, there were nuanced views over the (inherent) value of WIL which affected its ultimate treatment. Finally, the study found that though TVET-university national diploma programmes were somewhat similar and enabled AAAs, they were still misaligned at the level of design and interface, resulting in duplication of content, waste of time, and state resources. The university also did not have TVET programmes in mind in the design and review of programmes. The researcher deduced a conceptual framework for understanding and explaining how and why TVET-university AAAs succeed or fail. The framework touts the importance of having knowledgeable, articulation- cultured and acculturated leadership and officials (responsible for admissions, credit transfer, and RPL) as crucial for exploiting structural enablements and creatively circumventing inherent structural constraints, including challenging subtle ideas which may wittingly or unwittingly harbor views of TVET programmes as inferior. To this end, it is suggested that there be an establishment of an articulation office to coordinate AAAs that take a form of a hybrid model whereby there would be a combination of multilateral, direct in-house, and franchise TVET-CCU AAAs. The framework should also resolve programme design alignment issues by incorporating CAT and RPL principles, including other articulation instruments during curriculum analysis. RPL should equally be applied in the treatment of TVET WIL. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
Graduate attributes: A comparison between public and private higher education commerce students in South Africa
- Bissig, Abigail https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8316-629X
- Authors: Bissig, Abigail https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8316-629X
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Education, Higher -- South Africa , Private universities and colleges
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19683 , vital:43166
- Description: In order to handle the capacity shortfall of state-funded universities in developing economies, governments with limited public resources often establish systems and regulations that enable private organisations to provide equivalent qualifications. As such, South Africa (SA) has seen a large growth in the number of registered private higher education institutions (HEIs) offering alternatives to students who are seeking higher education qualifications but do not meet public universities admission criteria. The emergence of private HEIs has resulted in a different type of learning environment. These institutions provide smaller classes than their public counterparts and a faculty which often consists of both part-time and full-time retired public HEIs lecturers and industry experts, in an environment that is more practical, and less research focused. Due to the substantial differences between the public and private higher education sector mandate, the educational quality produced by private HEIs is often a contentious subject among academics. Employer perspectives are that most graduates do not have the necessary work-ready skills to successfully integrate into the workforce. While various studies have attempted to define and measure graduate employability, limited research differentiates between public and private HEI graduates, and even fewer studies compare the level of graduate employability between these two sectors. In an attempt to determine whether any statistically significant differences exist between the graduate attributes of public and private higher education commerce students in SA, this study makes use of the Graduate Skills and Attributes Scale (GSAS). The GSAS clusters eight graduate skills and behaviours into the three holistic, overarching attitudinal domains of personal and intellectual development. These eight graduate attributes include interactive skills, problem-solving and decision-making skills, continuous learning orientation, enterprising skills, presenting and applying information skills, goal-directed behaviour, ethical and responsible behaviour, and analytical thinking skills. Using a quantitative approach, questionnaires were distributed to a total of 416 respondents, consisting of 351 public and 65 private higher education commerce students within SA. The sample consisted of students enrolled in their final year of study, through either a public university or registered private HEI situated within SA, completing a Higher Education Qualifications Sub-Framework (HEQSF) accredited NQF 7 Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) degree through contact mode of study. After the data collection, independent samples t-tests were used to compare the graduate attributes of the two sectors. The study concludes that higher levels of interactive skills and continuous learning orientation were present among students attending private HEIs, while the remaining six graduate attributes indicated no significant differences between the two sectors. The results of this study provide valuable information to HEIs, students, industry and government, as it measures and compares the level of graduate quality produced by public and private HEIs within SA. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
- Authors: Bissig, Abigail https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8316-629X
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Education, Higher -- South Africa , Private universities and colleges
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19683 , vital:43166
- Description: In order to handle the capacity shortfall of state-funded universities in developing economies, governments with limited public resources often establish systems and regulations that enable private organisations to provide equivalent qualifications. As such, South Africa (SA) has seen a large growth in the number of registered private higher education institutions (HEIs) offering alternatives to students who are seeking higher education qualifications but do not meet public universities admission criteria. The emergence of private HEIs has resulted in a different type of learning environment. These institutions provide smaller classes than their public counterparts and a faculty which often consists of both part-time and full-time retired public HEIs lecturers and industry experts, in an environment that is more practical, and less research focused. Due to the substantial differences between the public and private higher education sector mandate, the educational quality produced by private HEIs is often a contentious subject among academics. Employer perspectives are that most graduates do not have the necessary work-ready skills to successfully integrate into the workforce. While various studies have attempted to define and measure graduate employability, limited research differentiates between public and private HEI graduates, and even fewer studies compare the level of graduate employability between these two sectors. In an attempt to determine whether any statistically significant differences exist between the graduate attributes of public and private higher education commerce students in SA, this study makes use of the Graduate Skills and Attributes Scale (GSAS). The GSAS clusters eight graduate skills and behaviours into the three holistic, overarching attitudinal domains of personal and intellectual development. These eight graduate attributes include interactive skills, problem-solving and decision-making skills, continuous learning orientation, enterprising skills, presenting and applying information skills, goal-directed behaviour, ethical and responsible behaviour, and analytical thinking skills. Using a quantitative approach, questionnaires were distributed to a total of 416 respondents, consisting of 351 public and 65 private higher education commerce students within SA. The sample consisted of students enrolled in their final year of study, through either a public university or registered private HEI situated within SA, completing a Higher Education Qualifications Sub-Framework (HEQSF) accredited NQF 7 Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) degree through contact mode of study. After the data collection, independent samples t-tests were used to compare the graduate attributes of the two sectors. The study concludes that higher levels of interactive skills and continuous learning orientation were present among students attending private HEIs, while the remaining six graduate attributes indicated no significant differences between the two sectors. The results of this study provide valuable information to HEIs, students, industry and government, as it measures and compares the level of graduate quality produced by public and private HEIs within SA. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
Implication of family therapy in the South African context: a case of New Brighton, Port Elizabeth.
- Authors: Mncono, Noxolo Alicia
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Family psychotherapy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21081 , vital:46969
- Description: The objectivity of this investigation layered on the establishment of the implication of family therapy in the South African context in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth. The aims of the study were (i) To determine the traditional ways of dealing with physical, emotional and psychosocial problems in IsiXhosa speaking communities in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth and, (ii) To explore the influence of traditional beliefs in the process of family therapy amongst IsiXhosa speaking communities in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth. The interest of this study originates from the side lining of the domination of Western European- oriented healing models which tends to question the infiltration of African therapeutic interventions focusing on the Xhosa cultural practices in facing human adversities specifically in New Brighton. A qualitative research design was utilized to collect data through semi-structured interviews, focus group and observation with an aim to justify the above mentioned objectives. The sample size consisted of 16 participants i.e. 11 family elders and 5 traditional healers as a result, data obtained was analysed through thematic analysis. This study investigated the influence of culture on health behaviours of isiXhosa speaking communities through the guidance of the PEN-3 cultural framework by Collins Airhihenbuwa. Furthermore, amaXhosa consult God (through prayer and attending church), ancestors (through rituals and cultural practises), family elders (for advice and guidance) and resort to traditional healers (for physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual problems). Moreover, amaXhosa routinely conduct family meetings consisting of extended families and apply their wisdom and experience in the provision of a solution to family related problems. Based on the overall analysis and identified gaps within this field of study it is recommended that an extensive research should emphasise on ways of the collaboration of African and Western perspectives on psychological counselling. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Psychology) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
- Authors: Mncono, Noxolo Alicia
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Family psychotherapy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21081 , vital:46969
- Description: The objectivity of this investigation layered on the establishment of the implication of family therapy in the South African context in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth. The aims of the study were (i) To determine the traditional ways of dealing with physical, emotional and psychosocial problems in IsiXhosa speaking communities in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth and, (ii) To explore the influence of traditional beliefs in the process of family therapy amongst IsiXhosa speaking communities in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth. The interest of this study originates from the side lining of the domination of Western European- oriented healing models which tends to question the infiltration of African therapeutic interventions focusing on the Xhosa cultural practices in facing human adversities specifically in New Brighton. A qualitative research design was utilized to collect data through semi-structured interviews, focus group and observation with an aim to justify the above mentioned objectives. The sample size consisted of 16 participants i.e. 11 family elders and 5 traditional healers as a result, data obtained was analysed through thematic analysis. This study investigated the influence of culture on health behaviours of isiXhosa speaking communities through the guidance of the PEN-3 cultural framework by Collins Airhihenbuwa. Furthermore, amaXhosa consult God (through prayer and attending church), ancestors (through rituals and cultural practises), family elders (for advice and guidance) and resort to traditional healers (for physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual problems). Moreover, amaXhosa routinely conduct family meetings consisting of extended families and apply their wisdom and experience in the provision of a solution to family related problems. Based on the overall analysis and identified gaps within this field of study it is recommended that an extensive research should emphasise on ways of the collaboration of African and Western perspectives on psychological counselling. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Psychology) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
Integration of nanostructured metal sulfides into titanium (iv) oxide for high performance dye sensitized solar cell
- Authors: Agoro, Adedoyin Mojeed
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Nanostructured materials , Sulfur compounds
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21523 , vital:48857
- Description: The work in this thesis describes synthesis, characterization and integration of nanostructured metal sulfides into titanium (IV) oxide for high performance dye sensitized solar cell. The synthesised single source precursors were evaluated using TGA, FTIR, , UV-Vis, PL,1H and 13CNMR, SEM, EDS, HRTEM, XRD, AFM, Raman, I-V, CV, Bode plot and EIS. TGA revealed the thermal degradation and quantified the mass percentage of metal sulphides as 33percent, 45percent and 27percent for CuS, PbS and SnS nanoparticles, respectively. FTIR analysis showed bands at 1580-1450 cm-1, and 1060-940 cm-1 tentatively assigned to C-N and C-S stretching frequencies correspondingly. The (M-S) stretching was observed at 577-406 cm-1 for the complexes using bis(N-di-isopropyl-N-octyldithiocarbamato) as primary ligands. IR spectra of bis(N-1,4-phenyl-N-(4-morpholinedithiocarbamato) as secondary ligands suggested the presence of (C-N) vibrations at 1508-1513 cm-1 for the complexes and 1507-1584 cm-1 for the ligands. The bands in the region of 973-1030 cm-1 were assigned to the complexes and 974- 983 cm-1 were attributed to the ligands, whereas vibration frequencies at 416-625 cm-1 were Nelson's Choice were included in these preliminary variety trials (PVTs) as checks. Twenty-five hybrids expressing high values for the Smith – Hazel selection index were identified across sites over years. Among those hybrids were two checks, namely Q16 (PAN5Q649R) and Q33 (Phb31MO7BR). The top five high – yielding hybrids selected based on the selection index were considered to be the most productive, stable and adaptable based on the GGE biplot and AMMI stability values. None of these single cross hybrids over yielded the best hybrid check (Q16) in the current study. A high potential environment, Centane, was the ideal environments for evaluating genotypes in the present study. The studies showed inbred lines L22, L23, L26, L28, L25, L29 and L31 to be low N stress tolerant at 0 kg N ha-1 based on the low N stress tolerance indices under glasshouse and the field conditions; they were also among the top ten grain-yielders under field conditions at 0 kg N ha-1. Also, in the NUE study, they were found to be among the top ten most N-efficient inbred lines under low N soils, under 30 kg N ha-1, and were among the top twenty-four inbred lines with high NUE values across the N levels in the study. Inbred lines L29 and L22 also produced testcross hybrids that were among the top twenty based on GY under 0 kg N ha-1. The testcross hybrids produced from these inbred lines were also among the top twenty-five with outstanding SCA effects for GY. These inbred lines were also parental lines of some of the top twenty- five best hybrids selected based on the Smith – Hazel selection index in the PVT study. Inbred lines L22, L23, L26, L28, L25, L29 and L31 can therefore further be evaluated and used as sources of N-tolerance genes in QPM breeding programs. tentatively assigned to M-S bond in the complexes. UV-Vis spectroscopy analysis for the complexes and from primary and secondary ligands are between within the range of 338 – 340 nm. PL studies of the primary ligands with metal complexes indicated emissions at 464 nm, 462 nm, 462 nm for Pb(II) and Sn(II), and Cu(II). The presence of secondary ligands was revealed by the absorption peaks at 455, 456 and 457 nm, exhibiting both the signals and chemical constituents of the respective ligands and their corresponding complexes. The electrochemistry in chapters 3 and 4 reveals that phase angle in the Bode plots changes with frequencies for Sn(II) complexes at 58, 57 and 8 respectively. Bode plots showed remarkable electronics of Cu(II) and Pb(II) complex interfaces. The CV curves exhibit two kinds of redox peaks indicating reduction at the negative potentials and oxidation at the positive potentials. The EIS, electrodes produced Rct for Pb(II), Cu(II) and Sn(II) electrodes in chapter 3. Moreover The EIS revealed that Sn(II) sensitizer displaced a stronger chemical capacitance and improved efficiency which could lead to better electron lifetime yield. The obtained CV exhibited anodic and cathodic peaks for Pb(II), connoting a reduction in Pb2+ and oxidation in Pb2-. Bode plot phase angle displayed Sn(II) and Pb(II) with maxima phase, indicating the presence of time constants of the electrode processes in Bis(N-1,4-Phenyl-N-Morhpo-dithiocarbamato bis(Mo/1,4-PHDTC) complexes. From the results in chapter 4, the XRD patterns exhibited good crystalline nature of CuS as a result of sharp and strong diffraction peaks obtained. There are eight peaks of 2θ angle between 26° and 79° relating to orthorhombic structure of SnS. While PbS has a cubic structure with polycrystalline nature, PbS/HDA and PbS both correspond to their crystalline planes of (200), (111), (220), (311), (222), (400), (331), (420) and (422) affirming to PbS QDs structure. SnS/HDA and SnS photosensitizers displayed eleven peaks between the values of 27.02° to 66.05° for SnS/HDA and 26.03° to 66.04° for SnS, in confirming the orthorhombic structure. SEM analysis revealed hexagonal structure for CuS, while PbS and SnS exhibited mesoporous nanostructures with spherical nanoparticles. HRTEM images indicated spherical nano-particles with particle sizes in the range of 3.14 - 44.39 nm. The outcome of HRTEM analysis revealed crystallite sizes varying as 10.90 – 11.57 nm, 3.14 – 5.95 nm and 14.96 – 44.39 nm for the CuS, PbS and SnS, originated from the primary ligands. HRTEM images originating from the Bis(N-1,4-Phenyl-N-Morhpo-dithiocarbamato bis(Mo/1,4-PHDTC) complexes indicated spherical nano-particles with particle sizes of 3.14 - 44.39 nm. Raman images in chapter 5 revealed the presence of Raman active modes of E2g 66 cm-1 and 304, cm-1 and E1g 627 cm-1 and 706 cm-1 for CuS, the active modes of TO 65 cm-1 and 2LO 626 cm-1 for PbS, active modes of B1g 69 cm-1 for SnS and 266 cm-1 for Ag. From the AFM results in chapter 5, CuS photosensitizer displayed a smooth surface and particle estimated to be 0.50 μm and height profile of 12percent. The PbS photosensitizer exhibited particle size of 1.82 μm and 0.654 μm for PbS/HDA, depicting a regular crystal growth rate. The size distribution of SnS nanoparticle at 357 nm connotes smooth surface and good compactness on the substrate. However, SnS/HDA at 122 nm displayed shape and size of non-symmetrical particles. AFM analysis in chapter 8 revealed good size roughness for CuS film. PbS exhibited particle size of 365 nm and size height of 18percent as the smoothest film, while PbS/HDA revealed 1.22 um size with 9percent size height. The evaluated particle sizes varied as 0.11- 1.18 um for SnS/HDA and 0.054 – 0.54 um for SnS films grown at 360 ℃ with size height of 16.8 and 8.4percent. The I-V efficiency obtained indicated that the CuS exhibited a much better efficiency in the QDSCs with higher Voc and the highest η being 2.85percent compared to CuS/HDA and Cu(II). High JSC of 11 mA/cm has been observed in the PbS/HDA QDSSCs, compared to the PbS and Pb(II) cells. The SnS/HDA exhibited a better performance compared to SnS and Sn(II) sensitizers due to the presence of HDA capping agent. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
- Authors: Agoro, Adedoyin Mojeed
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Nanostructured materials , Sulfur compounds
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21523 , vital:48857
- Description: The work in this thesis describes synthesis, characterization and integration of nanostructured metal sulfides into titanium (IV) oxide for high performance dye sensitized solar cell. The synthesised single source precursors were evaluated using TGA, FTIR, , UV-Vis, PL,1H and 13CNMR, SEM, EDS, HRTEM, XRD, AFM, Raman, I-V, CV, Bode plot and EIS. TGA revealed the thermal degradation and quantified the mass percentage of metal sulphides as 33percent, 45percent and 27percent for CuS, PbS and SnS nanoparticles, respectively. FTIR analysis showed bands at 1580-1450 cm-1, and 1060-940 cm-1 tentatively assigned to C-N and C-S stretching frequencies correspondingly. The (M-S) stretching was observed at 577-406 cm-1 for the complexes using bis(N-di-isopropyl-N-octyldithiocarbamato) as primary ligands. IR spectra of bis(N-1,4-phenyl-N-(4-morpholinedithiocarbamato) as secondary ligands suggested the presence of (C-N) vibrations at 1508-1513 cm-1 for the complexes and 1507-1584 cm-1 for the ligands. The bands in the region of 973-1030 cm-1 were assigned to the complexes and 974- 983 cm-1 were attributed to the ligands, whereas vibration frequencies at 416-625 cm-1 were Nelson's Choice were included in these preliminary variety trials (PVTs) as checks. Twenty-five hybrids expressing high values for the Smith – Hazel selection index were identified across sites over years. Among those hybrids were two checks, namely Q16 (PAN5Q649R) and Q33 (Phb31MO7BR). The top five high – yielding hybrids selected based on the selection index were considered to be the most productive, stable and adaptable based on the GGE biplot and AMMI stability values. None of these single cross hybrids over yielded the best hybrid check (Q16) in the current study. A high potential environment, Centane, was the ideal environments for evaluating genotypes in the present study. The studies showed inbred lines L22, L23, L26, L28, L25, L29 and L31 to be low N stress tolerant at 0 kg N ha-1 based on the low N stress tolerance indices under glasshouse and the field conditions; they were also among the top ten grain-yielders under field conditions at 0 kg N ha-1. Also, in the NUE study, they were found to be among the top ten most N-efficient inbred lines under low N soils, under 30 kg N ha-1, and were among the top twenty-four inbred lines with high NUE values across the N levels in the study. Inbred lines L29 and L22 also produced testcross hybrids that were among the top twenty based on GY under 0 kg N ha-1. The testcross hybrids produced from these inbred lines were also among the top twenty-five with outstanding SCA effects for GY. These inbred lines were also parental lines of some of the top twenty- five best hybrids selected based on the Smith – Hazel selection index in the PVT study. Inbred lines L22, L23, L26, L28, L25, L29 and L31 can therefore further be evaluated and used as sources of N-tolerance genes in QPM breeding programs. tentatively assigned to M-S bond in the complexes. UV-Vis spectroscopy analysis for the complexes and from primary and secondary ligands are between within the range of 338 – 340 nm. PL studies of the primary ligands with metal complexes indicated emissions at 464 nm, 462 nm, 462 nm for Pb(II) and Sn(II), and Cu(II). The presence of secondary ligands was revealed by the absorption peaks at 455, 456 and 457 nm, exhibiting both the signals and chemical constituents of the respective ligands and their corresponding complexes. The electrochemistry in chapters 3 and 4 reveals that phase angle in the Bode plots changes with frequencies for Sn(II) complexes at 58, 57 and 8 respectively. Bode plots showed remarkable electronics of Cu(II) and Pb(II) complex interfaces. The CV curves exhibit two kinds of redox peaks indicating reduction at the negative potentials and oxidation at the positive potentials. The EIS, electrodes produced Rct for Pb(II), Cu(II) and Sn(II) electrodes in chapter 3. Moreover The EIS revealed that Sn(II) sensitizer displaced a stronger chemical capacitance and improved efficiency which could lead to better electron lifetime yield. The obtained CV exhibited anodic and cathodic peaks for Pb(II), connoting a reduction in Pb2+ and oxidation in Pb2-. Bode plot phase angle displayed Sn(II) and Pb(II) with maxima phase, indicating the presence of time constants of the electrode processes in Bis(N-1,4-Phenyl-N-Morhpo-dithiocarbamato bis(Mo/1,4-PHDTC) complexes. From the results in chapter 4, the XRD patterns exhibited good crystalline nature of CuS as a result of sharp and strong diffraction peaks obtained. There are eight peaks of 2θ angle between 26° and 79° relating to orthorhombic structure of SnS. While PbS has a cubic structure with polycrystalline nature, PbS/HDA and PbS both correspond to their crystalline planes of (200), (111), (220), (311), (222), (400), (331), (420) and (422) affirming to PbS QDs structure. SnS/HDA and SnS photosensitizers displayed eleven peaks between the values of 27.02° to 66.05° for SnS/HDA and 26.03° to 66.04° for SnS, in confirming the orthorhombic structure. SEM analysis revealed hexagonal structure for CuS, while PbS and SnS exhibited mesoporous nanostructures with spherical nanoparticles. HRTEM images indicated spherical nano-particles with particle sizes in the range of 3.14 - 44.39 nm. The outcome of HRTEM analysis revealed crystallite sizes varying as 10.90 – 11.57 nm, 3.14 – 5.95 nm and 14.96 – 44.39 nm for the CuS, PbS and SnS, originated from the primary ligands. HRTEM images originating from the Bis(N-1,4-Phenyl-N-Morhpo-dithiocarbamato bis(Mo/1,4-PHDTC) complexes indicated spherical nano-particles with particle sizes of 3.14 - 44.39 nm. Raman images in chapter 5 revealed the presence of Raman active modes of E2g 66 cm-1 and 304, cm-1 and E1g 627 cm-1 and 706 cm-1 for CuS, the active modes of TO 65 cm-1 and 2LO 626 cm-1 for PbS, active modes of B1g 69 cm-1 for SnS and 266 cm-1 for Ag. From the AFM results in chapter 5, CuS photosensitizer displayed a smooth surface and particle estimated to be 0.50 μm and height profile of 12percent. The PbS photosensitizer exhibited particle size of 1.82 μm and 0.654 μm for PbS/HDA, depicting a regular crystal growth rate. The size distribution of SnS nanoparticle at 357 nm connotes smooth surface and good compactness on the substrate. However, SnS/HDA at 122 nm displayed shape and size of non-symmetrical particles. AFM analysis in chapter 8 revealed good size roughness for CuS film. PbS exhibited particle size of 365 nm and size height of 18percent as the smoothest film, while PbS/HDA revealed 1.22 um size with 9percent size height. The evaluated particle sizes varied as 0.11- 1.18 um for SnS/HDA and 0.054 – 0.54 um for SnS films grown at 360 ℃ with size height of 16.8 and 8.4percent. The I-V efficiency obtained indicated that the CuS exhibited a much better efficiency in the QDSCs with higher Voc and the highest η being 2.85percent compared to CuS/HDA and Cu(II). High JSC of 11 mA/cm has been observed in the PbS/HDA QDSSCs, compared to the PbS and Pb(II) cells. The SnS/HDA exhibited a better performance compared to SnS and Sn(II) sensitizers due to the presence of HDA capping agent. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
Investigating communal farmer’s perceptions on production practices and evaluating pre-slaughter responsiveness of extensively reared Boran and Nguni steers
- Guzi, Anelisa https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5568-3396
- Authors: Guzi, Anelisa https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5568-3396
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Boran cattle , Nguni cattle , Cattle breeds
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22721 , vital:52672
- Description: This study's overall objective was to investigate communal farmers' perceptions on production practices and evaluate pre-slaughter responsiveness of extensively reared Boran and Nguni steers. On objective one farmers’ knowledge and perceptions on cattle breeds, management, and marketing channels in selected villages of Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa were evaluated. Interviews were conducted using a structured questionnaire divided into demographic information and relevant cattle production practices, following a snowball technique to select 101 cattle-keeping households from Gaga, Ntselamanzi, and Ncerha villages. Most of the interviewed cattle farmers were males (65percent), in the age range of 40-60 years, with a primary-matric educational level. Among others, they highlighted financial security (47percent) and traditional ceremonies (26percent) as the reasons for keeping cattle. Most dominant in their herds were the Boran (49percent) and crossbreds (23percent) reared extensively with some supplementation (nutritional and medicinal). Their breed selection was based on disease and tick tolerance, temperament, and product (milk and meat) quality. It was noted that most of the interviewed cattle owners have the basic knowledge of good management practices, breed differences, and marketing chains. They related to low productivity to diseases, lack of knowledge, and poor resources. On the second objective pre-slaughter blood-based stress indicators and their subsequent effects were evaluated on beef quality of extensively reared Nguni and Boran steers . Twenty steers (10 Nguni and 10 Boran) aged 18 months were divided into two groups (with 5 of each breed per group) and transported from the University of Fort Hare Honeydale farm to the East London abattoir in the morning and afternoon trips. Upon arrival at the abattoir, the steers were held in lairage units for 24 hours (group 1) and 16 hours (group 2) until slaughter. Blood samples were drawn using a needle and vacutainer tubes from each steer's jugular vein at the farm before transportation, upon arrival at the abattoir, and during slaughter to perform cortisol, glucose, and routine haematological analysis. M. longissimus dorsi samples were harvested on the left side of each carcass to measure the meat quality attributes. Interactions between the observed production-stage activities, breeds, and physiological changes of these steers were recognized; with cortisol and glucose increasing (P ≤ 0.05) during transportation (4.15±0.46 ng/mL and 5.35±0.46nmol/L respectively) and also with farm group 1 showing higher cortisol (42.62±14.47 ng/mL) than the second group. Furthermore, all steers that were in slaughter group 1 showed less cortisol (101.49±14.47 ng/mL) and glucose (6.50±14.47 nmol/L) levels than those in group 2. In addition, Boran steers had higher packed cell volume, erythrocyte count, and haemoglobin values (33.27±0.54 percent, 7.66±0.19 106 μL, and 11.15±0.16 g/dl respectively) compared to Nguni steers in all production-stages. Later in the experiment, the effect of breed type, production stage activities (farm handling, transportation, and lairage duration), and stress responsiveness on some meat quality parameters (pH, lightness (L*), redness (a*), yellowness (b*), hue, Chroma, thawing and cooking loss, and tenderness) collected from the steers were measured. It was observed that the group lairaged for 16 hours produced the highest L* value (36.25±0.88) compared to those lairaged for 24 hours. As for the b* and hue of the meat, there were positive interactions between the breed type and the production stages (p<0.05). Lastly, cooking loss and tenderness were significantly affected by the breed type in all groups, with Nguni having the most tender meat (24.06±1.39 percent) and less cooking loss (16.92±1.33 percent) than Boran breeds. Therefore, the production stage conditions and breed type influenced some physiological stress-indicators and meat quality of Boran and Nguni steers raised on natural pastures. However, there were not many differences observed between the groups and breeds. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
- Authors: Guzi, Anelisa https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5568-3396
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Boran cattle , Nguni cattle , Cattle breeds
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22721 , vital:52672
- Description: This study's overall objective was to investigate communal farmers' perceptions on production practices and evaluate pre-slaughter responsiveness of extensively reared Boran and Nguni steers. On objective one farmers’ knowledge and perceptions on cattle breeds, management, and marketing channels in selected villages of Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa were evaluated. Interviews were conducted using a structured questionnaire divided into demographic information and relevant cattle production practices, following a snowball technique to select 101 cattle-keeping households from Gaga, Ntselamanzi, and Ncerha villages. Most of the interviewed cattle farmers were males (65percent), in the age range of 40-60 years, with a primary-matric educational level. Among others, they highlighted financial security (47percent) and traditional ceremonies (26percent) as the reasons for keeping cattle. Most dominant in their herds were the Boran (49percent) and crossbreds (23percent) reared extensively with some supplementation (nutritional and medicinal). Their breed selection was based on disease and tick tolerance, temperament, and product (milk and meat) quality. It was noted that most of the interviewed cattle owners have the basic knowledge of good management practices, breed differences, and marketing chains. They related to low productivity to diseases, lack of knowledge, and poor resources. On the second objective pre-slaughter blood-based stress indicators and their subsequent effects were evaluated on beef quality of extensively reared Nguni and Boran steers . Twenty steers (10 Nguni and 10 Boran) aged 18 months were divided into two groups (with 5 of each breed per group) and transported from the University of Fort Hare Honeydale farm to the East London abattoir in the morning and afternoon trips. Upon arrival at the abattoir, the steers were held in lairage units for 24 hours (group 1) and 16 hours (group 2) until slaughter. Blood samples were drawn using a needle and vacutainer tubes from each steer's jugular vein at the farm before transportation, upon arrival at the abattoir, and during slaughter to perform cortisol, glucose, and routine haematological analysis. M. longissimus dorsi samples were harvested on the left side of each carcass to measure the meat quality attributes. Interactions between the observed production-stage activities, breeds, and physiological changes of these steers were recognized; with cortisol and glucose increasing (P ≤ 0.05) during transportation (4.15±0.46 ng/mL and 5.35±0.46nmol/L respectively) and also with farm group 1 showing higher cortisol (42.62±14.47 ng/mL) than the second group. Furthermore, all steers that were in slaughter group 1 showed less cortisol (101.49±14.47 ng/mL) and glucose (6.50±14.47 nmol/L) levels than those in group 2. In addition, Boran steers had higher packed cell volume, erythrocyte count, and haemoglobin values (33.27±0.54 percent, 7.66±0.19 106 μL, and 11.15±0.16 g/dl respectively) compared to Nguni steers in all production-stages. Later in the experiment, the effect of breed type, production stage activities (farm handling, transportation, and lairage duration), and stress responsiveness on some meat quality parameters (pH, lightness (L*), redness (a*), yellowness (b*), hue, Chroma, thawing and cooking loss, and tenderness) collected from the steers were measured. It was observed that the group lairaged for 16 hours produced the highest L* value (36.25±0.88) compared to those lairaged for 24 hours. As for the b* and hue of the meat, there were positive interactions between the breed type and the production stages (p<0.05). Lastly, cooking loss and tenderness were significantly affected by the breed type in all groups, with Nguni having the most tender meat (24.06±1.39 percent) and less cooking loss (16.92±1.33 percent) than Boran breeds. Therefore, the production stage conditions and breed type influenced some physiological stress-indicators and meat quality of Boran and Nguni steers raised on natural pastures. However, there were not many differences observed between the groups and breeds. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2020
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- Date Issued: 2020-01
The effect of marketing capabilities on the competitive advantage of Small Medium and Micro Enterprises in OR Tambo District Municipality, Eastern Cape
- Mpongwana, Konaye https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4105-1536
- Authors: Mpongwana, Konaye https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4105-1536
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Market segmentation , Marketing -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20197 , vital:45407
- Description: It is usually understood that the development of technological marketing capabilities by firms provides them with immense opportunities to transform their business practices and strategies, to strategically position themselves in the market and enhance firm performance. The main objective of this study was to determine the effect of marketing capabilities (Intellectual capital, marketing strategy and market orientation) on the competitive advantage of SMMEs. Prior research has that early development of marketing capabilities enables firms to achieve competitive advantage. The issue to be attended to will be to identify the connection between the incorrect marketing capabilities and failure of SMMEs, if there is any. Furthermore, a thorough investigation looking at how the reduction of failure of SMMEs can be realised by investigating the marketing capabilities of SMMEs. Quantitative research approach was used in the study, with a population of 200 SMMEs, the Raosoft calculator is also used to calculate the sample size of 100 SMMEs which were used to collect the primary data of the study. Convenience sampling method was used by the researcher. The findings also revealed that SMMEs adopt new and advanced technologies when marketing their products and services. The study recommends that SMME Owners/ Managers should consider spending a higher proportion of their time and money engaging in activities related to marketing throughout the life of their business. Therefore, it has concluded that effective deployment of marketing capabilities can lead to competitive advantage and greater performance. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
- Authors: Mpongwana, Konaye https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4105-1536
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Market segmentation , Marketing -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20197 , vital:45407
- Description: It is usually understood that the development of technological marketing capabilities by firms provides them with immense opportunities to transform their business practices and strategies, to strategically position themselves in the market and enhance firm performance. The main objective of this study was to determine the effect of marketing capabilities (Intellectual capital, marketing strategy and market orientation) on the competitive advantage of SMMEs. Prior research has that early development of marketing capabilities enables firms to achieve competitive advantage. The issue to be attended to will be to identify the connection between the incorrect marketing capabilities and failure of SMMEs, if there is any. Furthermore, a thorough investigation looking at how the reduction of failure of SMMEs can be realised by investigating the marketing capabilities of SMMEs. Quantitative research approach was used in the study, with a population of 200 SMMEs, the Raosoft calculator is also used to calculate the sample size of 100 SMMEs which were used to collect the primary data of the study. Convenience sampling method was used by the researcher. The findings also revealed that SMMEs adopt new and advanced technologies when marketing their products and services. The study recommends that SMME Owners/ Managers should consider spending a higher proportion of their time and money engaging in activities related to marketing throughout the life of their business. Therefore, it has concluded that effective deployment of marketing capabilities can lead to competitive advantage and greater performance. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
The effects of exchange rate volatility on manufacturing exports in South Africa
- Authors: Munyu, Yibanati
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Foreign exchange rates
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20208 , vital:45411
- Description: The study examined the effect of exchange rate volatility on manufacturing exports in South Africa utilizing quarterly time series data from 1990 to 2018. Manufacturing exports (MX), foreign income (GDPf), input costs (C01), the real effective exchange rate (REER) and exchange rate volatility (V) were the key parameters. The study employed two alternative measures of exchange rate volatility. The first measure is the moving average standard deviation of the logarithm of the real effective exchange rate (MASDlnREER) based on the raw monthly data of the real effective exchange rate. The second measure is a dummy variable intended to capture the unexpected variation of the exchange rate. The study utilized the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) and the Error Correction Method (ECM) to examine the both the long run and short-run relationships. The empirical results revealed that in the long run, the real effective exchange rate volatility measure (MASDlnREER) has a negative and significant effect on manufacturing exports in South Africa. This result suggests that policy makers need to make an effort to moderate, the volatility of the Rand in an attempt to contain the adverse effects on manufacturing exports. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
- Authors: Munyu, Yibanati
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Foreign exchange rates
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20208 , vital:45411
- Description: The study examined the effect of exchange rate volatility on manufacturing exports in South Africa utilizing quarterly time series data from 1990 to 2018. Manufacturing exports (MX), foreign income (GDPf), input costs (C01), the real effective exchange rate (REER) and exchange rate volatility (V) were the key parameters. The study employed two alternative measures of exchange rate volatility. The first measure is the moving average standard deviation of the logarithm of the real effective exchange rate (MASDlnREER) based on the raw monthly data of the real effective exchange rate. The second measure is a dummy variable intended to capture the unexpected variation of the exchange rate. The study utilized the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) and the Error Correction Method (ECM) to examine the both the long run and short-run relationships. The empirical results revealed that in the long run, the real effective exchange rate volatility measure (MASDlnREER) has a negative and significant effect on manufacturing exports in South Africa. This result suggests that policy makers need to make an effort to moderate, the volatility of the Rand in an attempt to contain the adverse effects on manufacturing exports. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
The re-settlement of a ruined earth: Investigating the notion of “dwelling” through The design of a settlement in a post apocalyptic landscape
- Authors: Holdstock, Miranda
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Landscape architecture , Restoration ecology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59051 , vital:60259
- Description: It is 2100 and anthropogenic climate change is well underway. Human civilisation has collapsed and those who survived the apocalypse are condemned to a life of wandering along a ruined earth; placeless; hopeless; searching for sanctuary. Our most elemental instincts will find this place, and build on it, as we always have. There, we will construct an order in the chaos of the apocalypse, by building dwelling. In an apocalyptic landscape our dependence on dwelling is only amplified. This dwelling, an evolved shelter, the beginnings of settlement, is the manifestation of its dweller’s psyche: the totality of the human mind; the conscious and unconscious; the seen and unseen. It is a chronicle of their dreamworld, memories and experiences. And, when the dweller is also the builder, the dwelling is crafted as an intricate memory-scape - which, in the climate apocalypse, is easily desecrated by the horrors of the end of the known world. Because, at our most vulnerable, when our mortality is confronted, a crisis of being occurs. Those who cannot withstand the physical and psychological suffering that the apocalypse inspires, will become non-beings: those who unconsciously long for death. To portray this, a climate refugee becomes the project’s protagonist. Through her psychological evolution, a dwelling will be built at a site to which she wandered, that represents a ruined earth, where the remains of human civilisation are left behind. Her architecture will embody principles that might facilitate survival in a hyper-harsh environment and safeguard her fragile psychology through bio-inspired and phenomenological design. The final product of this thesis will be a symbolic representation of human wandering, settling and dwelling - the origin of civilisation within chaos. Which, despite the denial of climate change, might be sooner than we think. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
- Authors: Holdstock, Miranda
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Landscape architecture , Restoration ecology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59051 , vital:60259
- Description: It is 2100 and anthropogenic climate change is well underway. Human civilisation has collapsed and those who survived the apocalypse are condemned to a life of wandering along a ruined earth; placeless; hopeless; searching for sanctuary. Our most elemental instincts will find this place, and build on it, as we always have. There, we will construct an order in the chaos of the apocalypse, by building dwelling. In an apocalyptic landscape our dependence on dwelling is only amplified. This dwelling, an evolved shelter, the beginnings of settlement, is the manifestation of its dweller’s psyche: the totality of the human mind; the conscious and unconscious; the seen and unseen. It is a chronicle of their dreamworld, memories and experiences. And, when the dweller is also the builder, the dwelling is crafted as an intricate memory-scape - which, in the climate apocalypse, is easily desecrated by the horrors of the end of the known world. Because, at our most vulnerable, when our mortality is confronted, a crisis of being occurs. Those who cannot withstand the physical and psychological suffering that the apocalypse inspires, will become non-beings: those who unconsciously long for death. To portray this, a climate refugee becomes the project’s protagonist. Through her psychological evolution, a dwelling will be built at a site to which she wandered, that represents a ruined earth, where the remains of human civilisation are left behind. Her architecture will embody principles that might facilitate survival in a hyper-harsh environment and safeguard her fragile psychology through bio-inspired and phenomenological design. The final product of this thesis will be a symbolic representation of human wandering, settling and dwelling - the origin of civilisation within chaos. Which, despite the denial of climate change, might be sooner than we think. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
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