Experiences of agency nurses regarding their placement in private hospitals in East London, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Muller, Jennifer
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11911 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016054
- Description: The general Australian workforce is becoming increasingly reliant on agency staff due to the diminishing of full-time jobs and the rise in part-time jobs since the recession of 1991-1992. This pattern is also seen in Western countries such as America and the United Kingdom (Peerson et al., 2002:505). The excessive costs of health service adopting a 100% staffing model has created the use of agency nursing to help meet fluctuating and unpredictable health care demands in Australia and overseas; agency staff are used to meet the shortfalls in staff-patient ratios (Peerson et al., 2002:505). Hurst & Smith (2011:287) agree that agency nurse staffing form a large part of the health service in the UK and state that this was unlikely to change because of recruitment and retention problems, high absenteeism, and staff wanting to work casually. In their study, they identified three types of agency nurses: A bank nurse – the hospital’s own employees or those supplied by NHS Professionals, who work when required, usually at short notice; agency nurses provided by commercial organisations, who are equally flexible but less familiar with the ward patients and procedures; and permanent ward staff working paid overtime. In South Africa, this also remains a problem in public and private institutions. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that the minimum ratio for nurses to population is 200:100 000 or 500 people per nurse. According to South African Nursing Council statistics of nursing manpower as at the end of 2008, South Africa has 437 nurses for every 100 000 people. This assumed that all nurses registered with SANC are working in South Africa at the time. Therefore, if the assumed number of staff not working in South Africa is subtracted, the ratio can increase to between 600 and 678 people per nurse (WHO, 2006). Joubert (2009:2) shows that a shortage of nurses contributes to deaths in hospitals in South Africa that would otherwise have been avoidable. The use of agency staff is becoming an appropriate means of providing cost-effectiveness and flexibility to staffing needs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Muller, Jennifer
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11911 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016054
- Description: The general Australian workforce is becoming increasingly reliant on agency staff due to the diminishing of full-time jobs and the rise in part-time jobs since the recession of 1991-1992. This pattern is also seen in Western countries such as America and the United Kingdom (Peerson et al., 2002:505). The excessive costs of health service adopting a 100% staffing model has created the use of agency nursing to help meet fluctuating and unpredictable health care demands in Australia and overseas; agency staff are used to meet the shortfalls in staff-patient ratios (Peerson et al., 2002:505). Hurst & Smith (2011:287) agree that agency nurse staffing form a large part of the health service in the UK and state that this was unlikely to change because of recruitment and retention problems, high absenteeism, and staff wanting to work casually. In their study, they identified three types of agency nurses: A bank nurse – the hospital’s own employees or those supplied by NHS Professionals, who work when required, usually at short notice; agency nurses provided by commercial organisations, who are equally flexible but less familiar with the ward patients and procedures; and permanent ward staff working paid overtime. In South Africa, this also remains a problem in public and private institutions. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that the minimum ratio for nurses to population is 200:100 000 or 500 people per nurse. According to South African Nursing Council statistics of nursing manpower as at the end of 2008, South Africa has 437 nurses for every 100 000 people. This assumed that all nurses registered with SANC are working in South Africa at the time. Therefore, if the assumed number of staff not working in South Africa is subtracted, the ratio can increase to between 600 and 678 people per nurse (WHO, 2006). Joubert (2009:2) shows that a shortage of nurses contributes to deaths in hospitals in South Africa that would otherwise have been avoidable. The use of agency staff is becoming an appropriate means of providing cost-effectiveness and flexibility to staffing needs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Experiences of college students, regarding the mentoring role of registered nurses in the public services of the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Lundall, Kasthuri
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11918 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016159
- Description: Fifty percent of the learning of student nurses takes place within the clinical learning environment. It is in this environment that nursing students are expected to apply their knowledge, learn new skills, and achieve the required learning outcomes and proficiencies. Nursing program Me s differ significantly, so students ‟practice will vary depending on where they are studying and their practice will develop as the level of proficiency increases, and may also vary depending on the context of placement. Gopee (2008:7) elaborates on the fact that mentoring enables student nurses to gain clinical skills during placements and serves a formal role whereby teaching and practice facilitate professional learning within the healthcare system. The study was undertaken with the aim to describe experiences of college students regarding the mentoring role by registered nurses in the Public Services of the Eastern Cape. The objectives of the study were to explore and describe experiences of college students, regarding the mentoring role of registered nurses in Public Services of the Eastern Cape, to analyse the results and to make suggestions from findings that were obtained. A qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual design was used for this study to explore and describe the experiences of the college students regarding the mentoring role of registered nurses in the Public Services of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The researcher studied the population of student nurses in the public nursing college in the Eastern Cape at the East London Campus. Purposive sampling which is referred to as a judgmental approach was used. Data were collected by means of focus group interviews. An interview schedule with an unstructured questionnaire was used to investigate and explore information gained from the participants. This study consisted of a total of five focus groups that were recruited from fourth-year nursing students at the East London campus who volunteered to be part of the study. The total number of participants was 31. Data were analysed using v Tesch‟s method of analysis for qualitative research. Two major themes emerged, revealing positive experiences of students with regard to mentoring and negative experiences of students regarding mentoring. After exploring and describing the experiences of college students regarding the mentoring role played by registered nurses in the Public Services of the Eastern Cape, it was concluded that that there is a lack of mentoring, coupled with negativity, by registered nurses which results in many challenges. Recommendations included: Motivation for integration and collaboration; interactive working relationships; introducing a well-established orientation programme; a well-structured clinical teaching programme and procedure manuals; reinstatement of clinical preceptors, clinical objectives and time frames; identify in clinical staff who will mentor student nurses; instituting in-service training programmes and workshops; introduction of peer mentoring; and establishment of set times for routine clinical ward rounds.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Lundall, Kasthuri
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11918 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016159
- Description: Fifty percent of the learning of student nurses takes place within the clinical learning environment. It is in this environment that nursing students are expected to apply their knowledge, learn new skills, and achieve the required learning outcomes and proficiencies. Nursing program Me s differ significantly, so students ‟practice will vary depending on where they are studying and their practice will develop as the level of proficiency increases, and may also vary depending on the context of placement. Gopee (2008:7) elaborates on the fact that mentoring enables student nurses to gain clinical skills during placements and serves a formal role whereby teaching and practice facilitate professional learning within the healthcare system. The study was undertaken with the aim to describe experiences of college students regarding the mentoring role by registered nurses in the Public Services of the Eastern Cape. The objectives of the study were to explore and describe experiences of college students, regarding the mentoring role of registered nurses in Public Services of the Eastern Cape, to analyse the results and to make suggestions from findings that were obtained. A qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual design was used for this study to explore and describe the experiences of the college students regarding the mentoring role of registered nurses in the Public Services of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The researcher studied the population of student nurses in the public nursing college in the Eastern Cape at the East London Campus. Purposive sampling which is referred to as a judgmental approach was used. Data were collected by means of focus group interviews. An interview schedule with an unstructured questionnaire was used to investigate and explore information gained from the participants. This study consisted of a total of five focus groups that were recruited from fourth-year nursing students at the East London campus who volunteered to be part of the study. The total number of participants was 31. Data were analysed using v Tesch‟s method of analysis for qualitative research. Two major themes emerged, revealing positive experiences of students with regard to mentoring and negative experiences of students regarding mentoring. After exploring and describing the experiences of college students regarding the mentoring role played by registered nurses in the Public Services of the Eastern Cape, it was concluded that that there is a lack of mentoring, coupled with negativity, by registered nurses which results in many challenges. Recommendations included: Motivation for integration and collaboration; interactive working relationships; introducing a well-established orientation programme; a well-structured clinical teaching programme and procedure manuals; reinstatement of clinical preceptors, clinical objectives and time frames; identify in clinical staff who will mentor student nurses; instituting in-service training programmes and workshops; introduction of peer mentoring; and establishment of set times for routine clinical ward rounds.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Exploration of indigenous knowledge and practices of the relatives of mental health care users regarding management of mental disorders in Malawi
- Authors: Kavalo, Yasinta
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11933 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021333 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1020173
- Description: Exploration of indigenous knowledge and practices of the relatives of mental health care users regarding the management of mental disorders. This study was conducted to explore the management of mental disorders amongst the indigenous people of the Dedza District in Malawi. The government of Malawi declared public mental health services to be free of charge, as a strategy to reduce the burden of disease to the country. Yet despite the free health care services, the indigenous people of Malawi did not take advantage of these free mental health care services, as they regarded them to be culturally incongruent. Instead they used traditional healing systems for mental disorders and consulted the Western health systems only when the traditional systems had failed, the mental health condition had become worse and the mental health care user had become unmanageable. This study was then conducted to explore what the Malawians regarded as culturally sensitive public mental health services. Method: A qualitative phenomenological research approach was adopted to explore the views of the relatives of mental health care users about culturally sensitive public mental health care services. A purposeful sampling method was used to select information rich participants amongst the relatives of mental health care users of indigenous Malawian origin. An unstructured interview guide was used to gather data through face to face interviews. Saturation of data was reached after interviewing fifteen (15) relatives. The verbatim transcribed data from the participants were content analyzed to identify the themes, categories and subcategories. Themes that emerged were: community beliefs; perceived causes, delayed decision making and health system factors. viii Findings: The community beliefs about the management of mental disorders were on traditional and religious health systems. The traditional healers were consulted in cases where mental illness was believed to be caused by witchcraft and spiritual healers were consulted where mental illness was believed to be caused by ancestral wrath. Even such consultations were delayed as the decisions on the type of healer to be used to manage the mental health care user, had to come from the extended family members. These processes took place during the acute phase of the mental illness and thus explain the delays in consulting with the Western mental health care systems. Such delays had a potential to contribute to the chronicity and the related complications of the illness. The Western health care services were only consulted when the indigenous healing systems were unsuccessful. Yet even the western healing systems were not the best option due to the negative and disrespectful attitudes of health care professionals, the impersonal nature of services, the use of foreign language and delays in service delivery. The recommendations were that the results of this study should be used as guidelines to develop strategies for culturally congruent mental health care services to the indigenous Malawians as the development of the strategies was beyond the scope of this study. The focus of the guidelines to ensure the development of evidence-based nursing practices in rendering culturally congruent mental health services to the indigenous Malawians. Firstly, there should be an integration of both the Western and the traditional healing systems to ensure a holistic patient centered approach to the care of the indigenous people of Malawi; secondly to use the nursing process phases, starting with the assessment, the formulation of the nursing diagnosis, the expected outcomes, the development and implementation of the nursing interventions and the discharge ix plans to incorporate the belief systems of the indigenous Malawians as identified in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Kavalo, Yasinta
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11933 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021333 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1020173
- Description: Exploration of indigenous knowledge and practices of the relatives of mental health care users regarding the management of mental disorders. This study was conducted to explore the management of mental disorders amongst the indigenous people of the Dedza District in Malawi. The government of Malawi declared public mental health services to be free of charge, as a strategy to reduce the burden of disease to the country. Yet despite the free health care services, the indigenous people of Malawi did not take advantage of these free mental health care services, as they regarded them to be culturally incongruent. Instead they used traditional healing systems for mental disorders and consulted the Western health systems only when the traditional systems had failed, the mental health condition had become worse and the mental health care user had become unmanageable. This study was then conducted to explore what the Malawians regarded as culturally sensitive public mental health services. Method: A qualitative phenomenological research approach was adopted to explore the views of the relatives of mental health care users about culturally sensitive public mental health care services. A purposeful sampling method was used to select information rich participants amongst the relatives of mental health care users of indigenous Malawian origin. An unstructured interview guide was used to gather data through face to face interviews. Saturation of data was reached after interviewing fifteen (15) relatives. The verbatim transcribed data from the participants were content analyzed to identify the themes, categories and subcategories. Themes that emerged were: community beliefs; perceived causes, delayed decision making and health system factors. viii Findings: The community beliefs about the management of mental disorders were on traditional and religious health systems. The traditional healers were consulted in cases where mental illness was believed to be caused by witchcraft and spiritual healers were consulted where mental illness was believed to be caused by ancestral wrath. Even such consultations were delayed as the decisions on the type of healer to be used to manage the mental health care user, had to come from the extended family members. These processes took place during the acute phase of the mental illness and thus explain the delays in consulting with the Western mental health care systems. Such delays had a potential to contribute to the chronicity and the related complications of the illness. The Western health care services were only consulted when the indigenous healing systems were unsuccessful. Yet even the western healing systems were not the best option due to the negative and disrespectful attitudes of health care professionals, the impersonal nature of services, the use of foreign language and delays in service delivery. The recommendations were that the results of this study should be used as guidelines to develop strategies for culturally congruent mental health care services to the indigenous Malawians as the development of the strategies was beyond the scope of this study. The focus of the guidelines to ensure the development of evidence-based nursing practices in rendering culturally congruent mental health services to the indigenous Malawians. Firstly, there should be an integration of both the Western and the traditional healing systems to ensure a holistic patient centered approach to the care of the indigenous people of Malawi; secondly to use the nursing process phases, starting with the assessment, the formulation of the nursing diagnosis, the expected outcomes, the development and implementation of the nursing interventions and the discharge ix plans to incorporate the belief systems of the indigenous Malawians as identified in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Exploration of nursing students’ experiences of learning in a tertiary institution in East London in the Province of Eastern Cape
- Authors: Bulelwa, Cynthia James
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11909 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015526
- Description: The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of nursing students learning in a tertiary institution in East London in the Province of the Eastern Cape. Reviewed literature has revealed that the transition from high school to university is a major concern globally and that students start tertiary education with a number of pre-existing problems which influence their experience of learning and their academic performance. A qualitative, contextual approach and phenomenology design was seen as most appropriate to guide this research process in this study. Purposive, non-probability sampling was used to select the 12 participants. The participants included nursing students from the University of Fort Hare in East London in the Eastern Cape Province who are enrolled in the course leading to registration as a Nurse (General, Psychiatry and Community) and Midwifery. A pilot study was conducted at the University of Fort Hare involving respondents with similar characteristics to the study population.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Bulelwa, Cynthia James
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11909 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015526
- Description: The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of nursing students learning in a tertiary institution in East London in the Province of the Eastern Cape. Reviewed literature has revealed that the transition from high school to university is a major concern globally and that students start tertiary education with a number of pre-existing problems which influence their experience of learning and their academic performance. A qualitative, contextual approach and phenomenology design was seen as most appropriate to guide this research process in this study. Purposive, non-probability sampling was used to select the 12 participants. The participants included nursing students from the University of Fort Hare in East London in the Eastern Cape Province who are enrolled in the course leading to registration as a Nurse (General, Psychiatry and Community) and Midwifery. A pilot study was conducted at the University of Fort Hare involving respondents with similar characteristics to the study population.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Factors contributing to non adherence among pregnant women on antiretroviral treatment at Amathole District, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Dekeda, Kolelwa Felicia
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11921 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019773
- Description: During the beginning of the HIV epidemic in 1981 25 million people have died. The introduction of ART therefore has promising developments to reduce mortality rates and new infections. Nevertheless there is still a challenge with adherence to ART worldwide and in South Africa. The purpose of the study was to determine the factors contributing to non-adherence to ART among HIV positive pregnant women. The study involved a non- probability sample of 70 HIV pregnant women on ART attending antenatal care clinics at the tertiary hospital and two community health centres,in Buffalo City, Amathole District, Eastern Cape. A coded questionnaire was used as an instrument for data collection. Ethical procedure was followed and a consent form was signed by each participant. Data was collected for a period of two months The demographic data reveals that the majority of the participants were knowledgeable about ART and employed. That is evident in the adherence to ART in all age groups except age 40 and above. The majority of HIV positive pregnant women on ART who participated in the study were single 50% (n=35) which suggests that they may lack emotional support from partners and may have difficulty in disclosing their status. Level of adherence revealed that 27% (n=19) of participants missed ART because of forgetfulness, and 16% (n=12) and others were feeling healthy due to frequent follow ups and complying with the ART. Poor follow up, too sick, side effects pill burden, fear of stigma, lack of finances and taking alcohol hinders the proper management of HIV positive pregnant women and is risky to the unborn baby. HIV positive pregnant women on ART exhibited a good knowledge and use of ART. This is encouraging and should be sustained by continuous community awareness campaigns to empower the communities about HIV/AIDS, PMTCT programme and ART and extensive training of health care providers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Dekeda, Kolelwa Felicia
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11921 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019773
- Description: During the beginning of the HIV epidemic in 1981 25 million people have died. The introduction of ART therefore has promising developments to reduce mortality rates and new infections. Nevertheless there is still a challenge with adherence to ART worldwide and in South Africa. The purpose of the study was to determine the factors contributing to non-adherence to ART among HIV positive pregnant women. The study involved a non- probability sample of 70 HIV pregnant women on ART attending antenatal care clinics at the tertiary hospital and two community health centres,in Buffalo City, Amathole District, Eastern Cape. A coded questionnaire was used as an instrument for data collection. Ethical procedure was followed and a consent form was signed by each participant. Data was collected for a period of two months The demographic data reveals that the majority of the participants were knowledgeable about ART and employed. That is evident in the adherence to ART in all age groups except age 40 and above. The majority of HIV positive pregnant women on ART who participated in the study were single 50% (n=35) which suggests that they may lack emotional support from partners and may have difficulty in disclosing their status. Level of adherence revealed that 27% (n=19) of participants missed ART because of forgetfulness, and 16% (n=12) and others were feeling healthy due to frequent follow ups and complying with the ART. Poor follow up, too sick, side effects pill burden, fear of stigma, lack of finances and taking alcohol hinders the proper management of HIV positive pregnant women and is risky to the unborn baby. HIV positive pregnant women on ART exhibited a good knowledge and use of ART. This is encouraging and should be sustained by continuous community awareness campaigns to empower the communities about HIV/AIDS, PMTCT programme and ART and extensive training of health care providers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Farmers’ awareness of climate change and variability and it’s effects on agricultural productivity: (the case of King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipalty in Eastern Cape)
- Authors: Mdoda, Lelethu
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Agricultural productivity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops and climate -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops and water -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11234 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021294 , Agricultural productivity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops and climate -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops and water -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Climate is an important factor of agricultural productivity and many rural dwellers in developing countries depend on agriculture and are highly affected by climate change and variability. The world is currently experiencing climatic changes and variability conditions which results in high temperatures, low rainfall patterns, shortage of water and drought persistence. Climate change and variability is affecting weather patterns and shifting seasons which results in serious repercussions on smallholder farmers. Smallholder farmers are extremely vulnerable to climate change and variability because their farming and production systems are climate sensitive and are not rebound to climate stresses. These adverse effects in developing countries arise from different climate change and variability-related causes, notable extreme weather events, food security, increased health risks in agriculture from vector home diseases, and temperature-related morbidity in environments. The study was carried in King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. This study examines farmers’ awareness of climate change and variability and its effects on agricultural productivity in King Sabata Dalindyebo municipality using a Descriptive Statistics, Binary and Ricardian Model fitted to data from a cross-sectional survey of 200 farmers in King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality. Both primary and secondary data was used. This research study estimates the effects of climate change and variability on King Sabata Dalindyebo agricultural productivity using a continental dimension of Ricardian analysis. Results revealed that local farmers were aware of climate change and variability and perceived changes in average temperatures and rainfall. The changes in average temperatures and rainfall had adverse effects on crop and livestock production. However, farmers’ awareness of climate change is not to an extent that they presume adaptation to climate change as a necessity and crucial. The results show that climate change and variability affects farm income and there is a non-linear relationship existing between climatic variables (temperature and precipitation) and farm income which depicts U-shaped. The study results indicated that climate change and variability affect agricultural productivity and have an effect on agricultural productivity in King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality. In view of the research findings, several policy proposals are suggested. The study findings suggest that climate change and variability must be taken seriously and monitored. Policy makers and government officials must support farmers with information distribution,education, market access, well trained extension agents, credit and information about mitigation strategies to climate change and variability which includes institutional and technological methods, particularly smallholder farmers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Mdoda, Lelethu
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Agricultural productivity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops and climate -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops and water -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11234 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021294 , Agricultural productivity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops and climate -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops and water -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Climate is an important factor of agricultural productivity and many rural dwellers in developing countries depend on agriculture and are highly affected by climate change and variability. The world is currently experiencing climatic changes and variability conditions which results in high temperatures, low rainfall patterns, shortage of water and drought persistence. Climate change and variability is affecting weather patterns and shifting seasons which results in serious repercussions on smallholder farmers. Smallholder farmers are extremely vulnerable to climate change and variability because their farming and production systems are climate sensitive and are not rebound to climate stresses. These adverse effects in developing countries arise from different climate change and variability-related causes, notable extreme weather events, food security, increased health risks in agriculture from vector home diseases, and temperature-related morbidity in environments. The study was carried in King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. This study examines farmers’ awareness of climate change and variability and its effects on agricultural productivity in King Sabata Dalindyebo municipality using a Descriptive Statistics, Binary and Ricardian Model fitted to data from a cross-sectional survey of 200 farmers in King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality. Both primary and secondary data was used. This research study estimates the effects of climate change and variability on King Sabata Dalindyebo agricultural productivity using a continental dimension of Ricardian analysis. Results revealed that local farmers were aware of climate change and variability and perceived changes in average temperatures and rainfall. The changes in average temperatures and rainfall had adverse effects on crop and livestock production. However, farmers’ awareness of climate change is not to an extent that they presume adaptation to climate change as a necessity and crucial. The results show that climate change and variability affects farm income and there is a non-linear relationship existing between climatic variables (temperature and precipitation) and farm income which depicts U-shaped. The study results indicated that climate change and variability affect agricultural productivity and have an effect on agricultural productivity in King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality. In view of the research findings, several policy proposals are suggested. The study findings suggest that climate change and variability must be taken seriously and monitored. Policy makers and government officials must support farmers with information distribution,education, market access, well trained extension agents, credit and information about mitigation strategies to climate change and variability which includes institutional and technological methods, particularly smallholder farmers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Genetic and phenotypic characterisation of foodborne bacteria isolated from ready-to-eat foods in Alice, South Africa
- Authors: Nyenje, Mirriam E
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Foodborne diseases -- Microbiology , Pathogenic bacteria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Microbiology)
- Identifier: vital:11279 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016109 , Foodborne diseases -- Microbiology , Pathogenic bacteria
- Description: Foodborne illnesses following the ingestion of contaminated food are a major public health problem worldwide. They include a broad group of illnesses ranging from mild to chronic or life-threatening; caused by either toxins released from the disease-causing microbes, or by the microbes themselves. Antimicrobial susceptibility data shows an alarming increase in the frequency of antimicrobial resistance of foodborne pathogens, a situation which is worrisome as it decreases the effectiveness of drugs employed to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with serious and life-threatening infections and thus, compromising human health. This study was therefore designed to assess the occurrence and characterization of bacterial foodborne pathogens in various foods sold in Alice, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa in an effort to throw more light on the inherent risk associated with such foods. The study was conducted during the period of 2011 - 2013. Two university restaurants and eight ready-to-eat food vending sites in Alice Town were selected based on their prominence to the students, workers and rest of the community. Microbiological analysis was conducted on 252 samples which included vegetables, potatoes, rice, pies, beef and chicken stew. The isolates were identified using biochemical tests and confirmation of the two most prevalent organisms (Listeria ivanovii and Enterobacter cloacae) was done using PCR techniques. The antimicrobial susceptibility profile of Listeria ivanovii and Enterobacter cloacae strains were identified using the disc diffusion technique; minimum inhibitory concentration was determined by the broth dilution method and M.I.C. Evaluator test strips. The microtiter plate adherence assay was employed to ascertain the ability of these isolates to adhere to a surface whereas the role of cell surface properties in biofilm formation was assessed using the coaggregation and autoaggregation assays. The architecture of the formed biofilms was examined under the scanning electron microscope. The virulence and resistant genes were also detected and characterised by sequencing the PCR products. Bacterial growth was present in all the food types tested; organisms isolated included: Listeria spp. (22%), Enterobacter spp. (18%), Aeromonas hydrophila (12%), Klebsiella oxytoca (8%), Proteus mirabilis (6.3%), Staphylococcus aureus (3.2%) and Pseudomonas luteola (2.4%). PCR confirmed 30 (97%) isolates as E. cloacae complex while 44% (22/50) tested positive for L. ivanovii. All the strains of E. cloacae (100%) and 96% of L. ivanovii isolates (based on phenotypic identification) were resistant to at least four or more of the antibiotics. In this study, bla-TEM was also detected from 48 (96%) of L. ivanovii and 30 (100%) of E. cloacae strains; further analysis of the bla-TEM demonstrated the occurrence of bla-TEM-1. Of the 56 bla-TEM-1 positive isolates sequenced, 7% (4/56) had mutation of either insertion or substitution of a nucleotide. Two virulence genes (ucaA and hlyA) were detected in E. cloacae isolates and none in L. ivanovii using PCR. Sequence analysis of the hsp60 gene reported the presence of two sub-species for E. cloacae; E. cloacae cluster III (75%) and E. cloacae cluster IV (25%); while analysis of the iap60 gene demonstrated that 55.8% (19/34) were L. ivanovii, 44% (15/34) L. seeligeri and 14.7% (5/34) L. welshemeri. A total of 90% L. ivanovii and 88% E. cloacae strains demonstrated the ability to form biofilms; the coaggregation index ranged from 12 to 77% while the autoaggregation index varied from 11 to 55% for L. ivanovii and 27% to 98% for E. cloacae. The findings of this study indicate that most of the ready-to-eat food samples examined did not meet bacteriological quality standards, thus posing potential risks to consumers. This should draw the attention of the relevant authorities to certify that hygienic standards are improved to curtain foodborne infections. Furthermore, the presence of multi-resistant strains is of major concern as these foods could serve as important vehicles transmitting multi-resistant bacteria and genes to humans. In addition the ability of these pathogens to form biofilms may lead to adherence of these organisms to kitchen utensils and other environments leading to cross-contamination of food processed in these areas and increase resistance of organisms to antimicrobial agents.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Nyenje, Mirriam E
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Foodborne diseases -- Microbiology , Pathogenic bacteria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Microbiology)
- Identifier: vital:11279 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016109 , Foodborne diseases -- Microbiology , Pathogenic bacteria
- Description: Foodborne illnesses following the ingestion of contaminated food are a major public health problem worldwide. They include a broad group of illnesses ranging from mild to chronic or life-threatening; caused by either toxins released from the disease-causing microbes, or by the microbes themselves. Antimicrobial susceptibility data shows an alarming increase in the frequency of antimicrobial resistance of foodborne pathogens, a situation which is worrisome as it decreases the effectiveness of drugs employed to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with serious and life-threatening infections and thus, compromising human health. This study was therefore designed to assess the occurrence and characterization of bacterial foodborne pathogens in various foods sold in Alice, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa in an effort to throw more light on the inherent risk associated with such foods. The study was conducted during the period of 2011 - 2013. Two university restaurants and eight ready-to-eat food vending sites in Alice Town were selected based on their prominence to the students, workers and rest of the community. Microbiological analysis was conducted on 252 samples which included vegetables, potatoes, rice, pies, beef and chicken stew. The isolates were identified using biochemical tests and confirmation of the two most prevalent organisms (Listeria ivanovii and Enterobacter cloacae) was done using PCR techniques. The antimicrobial susceptibility profile of Listeria ivanovii and Enterobacter cloacae strains were identified using the disc diffusion technique; minimum inhibitory concentration was determined by the broth dilution method and M.I.C. Evaluator test strips. The microtiter plate adherence assay was employed to ascertain the ability of these isolates to adhere to a surface whereas the role of cell surface properties in biofilm formation was assessed using the coaggregation and autoaggregation assays. The architecture of the formed biofilms was examined under the scanning electron microscope. The virulence and resistant genes were also detected and characterised by sequencing the PCR products. Bacterial growth was present in all the food types tested; organisms isolated included: Listeria spp. (22%), Enterobacter spp. (18%), Aeromonas hydrophila (12%), Klebsiella oxytoca (8%), Proteus mirabilis (6.3%), Staphylococcus aureus (3.2%) and Pseudomonas luteola (2.4%). PCR confirmed 30 (97%) isolates as E. cloacae complex while 44% (22/50) tested positive for L. ivanovii. All the strains of E. cloacae (100%) and 96% of L. ivanovii isolates (based on phenotypic identification) were resistant to at least four or more of the antibiotics. In this study, bla-TEM was also detected from 48 (96%) of L. ivanovii and 30 (100%) of E. cloacae strains; further analysis of the bla-TEM demonstrated the occurrence of bla-TEM-1. Of the 56 bla-TEM-1 positive isolates sequenced, 7% (4/56) had mutation of either insertion or substitution of a nucleotide. Two virulence genes (ucaA and hlyA) were detected in E. cloacae isolates and none in L. ivanovii using PCR. Sequence analysis of the hsp60 gene reported the presence of two sub-species for E. cloacae; E. cloacae cluster III (75%) and E. cloacae cluster IV (25%); while analysis of the iap60 gene demonstrated that 55.8% (19/34) were L. ivanovii, 44% (15/34) L. seeligeri and 14.7% (5/34) L. welshemeri. A total of 90% L. ivanovii and 88% E. cloacae strains demonstrated the ability to form biofilms; the coaggregation index ranged from 12 to 77% while the autoaggregation index varied from 11 to 55% for L. ivanovii and 27% to 98% for E. cloacae. The findings of this study indicate that most of the ready-to-eat food samples examined did not meet bacteriological quality standards, thus posing potential risks to consumers. This should draw the attention of the relevant authorities to certify that hygienic standards are improved to curtain foodborne infections. Furthermore, the presence of multi-resistant strains is of major concern as these foods could serve as important vehicles transmitting multi-resistant bacteria and genes to humans. In addition the ability of these pathogens to form biofilms may lead to adherence of these organisms to kitchen utensils and other environments leading to cross-contamination of food processed in these areas and increase resistance of organisms to antimicrobial agents.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
GIS and remote sensing as a potential tool to support digital soil mapping in the Eastern Cape province in South Africa
- Authors: Mathe, Tumelo
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Geographic Information System)
- Identifier: vital:11533 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019858
- Description: This study is based on assessing the potential use of GIS and Remote Sensing in trying to fill the various soil maps of selected regions at different scales with spatial soil data. A variety of processes are available for use. These include band ratios, principal component analysis as well as use of a digital elevation model (DEM). With the advent of GIS and Remote Sensing, these principles in the new niche of study are investigated to check if they can be used to augment the current processes available in soil mapping techniques. Such processes as band ratioing, principal component analysis and use of Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) are investigated to check if they can be used in soil mapping techniques. From the results produced it is evident that these processes have the potential to be used in the Digital Soil Mapping process. Despite the limitation of remote sensing to a few centimetres of the topsoil these processes can be used together with the soil mapping techniques currently being used to come up with soil maps.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Mathe, Tumelo
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Geographic Information System)
- Identifier: vital:11533 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019858
- Description: This study is based on assessing the potential use of GIS and Remote Sensing in trying to fill the various soil maps of selected regions at different scales with spatial soil data. A variety of processes are available for use. These include band ratios, principal component analysis as well as use of a digital elevation model (DEM). With the advent of GIS and Remote Sensing, these principles in the new niche of study are investigated to check if they can be used to augment the current processes available in soil mapping techniques. Such processes as band ratioing, principal component analysis and use of Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) are investigated to check if they can be used in soil mapping techniques. From the results produced it is evident that these processes have the potential to be used in the Digital Soil Mapping process. Despite the limitation of remote sensing to a few centimetres of the topsoil these processes can be used together with the soil mapping techniques currently being used to come up with soil maps.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Identifying appropriate paths for establishing sustainable irrigated crop based farming business on smallholder irrigation schemes: a case of Ncora Irrigation Scheme
- Authors: Mbizana, Nandipha
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Crops -- Irrigation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- Water requirements -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11213 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016205 , Crops -- Irrigation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- Water requirements -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The study examined the impact of small scale irrigation technology in crop production under Ncora areas of Cofimvaba. To achieve the objective of the study, data were collected from 212 farmers engaged in various crop enterprises under the Ncora. The farmers were randomly selected. Descriptive Statistics, DEA model, linear regression model and gross margin analysis were used to analyse the results obtained from the survey. The descriptive results showed that Ncora farmers are small-scale farmers cultivating small hectare of land and using simple farm tools, mainly using furrow irrigation. Furthermore, they produce more than one crop enterprises. The gross margin Analysis shows that Ncora cultivation is profitable. The most profitable crop was found to be maize than potatoes. Farm production function revealed that land, labour and purchased inputs had a positive relationship with the output of the enterprises. SPSS was used to run data for linear regression model (OLS). It was suggested that extension services and private organizations assist farmers especially the emerging ones via provision of training, processing and storage facilities. Furthermore, continuous monitoring of soil and water quality as well as ground water table was recommended, in order to ensure sustainability of Ncora irrigation in the area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Mbizana, Nandipha
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Crops -- Irrigation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- Water requirements -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11213 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016205 , Crops -- Irrigation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- Water requirements -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The study examined the impact of small scale irrigation technology in crop production under Ncora areas of Cofimvaba. To achieve the objective of the study, data were collected from 212 farmers engaged in various crop enterprises under the Ncora. The farmers were randomly selected. Descriptive Statistics, DEA model, linear regression model and gross margin analysis were used to analyse the results obtained from the survey. The descriptive results showed that Ncora farmers are small-scale farmers cultivating small hectare of land and using simple farm tools, mainly using furrow irrigation. Furthermore, they produce more than one crop enterprises. The gross margin Analysis shows that Ncora cultivation is profitable. The most profitable crop was found to be maize than potatoes. Farm production function revealed that land, labour and purchased inputs had a positive relationship with the output of the enterprises. SPSS was used to run data for linear regression model (OLS). It was suggested that extension services and private organizations assist farmers especially the emerging ones via provision of training, processing and storage facilities. Furthermore, continuous monitoring of soil and water quality as well as ground water table was recommended, in order to ensure sustainability of Ncora irrigation in the area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Impact of Agricultural development projects on poverty alleviation In Amajuba district municipality (KZN)
- Authors: Mabaso, Siphesihle Merit
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Agricultural development projects , Poor -- Services for -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11217 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019770 , Poverty -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Agricultural development projects , Poor -- Services for -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Description: The study determined the impact of agricultural development projects on poverty alleviation at Amajuba district municipality. Data was drawn from 100 respondents, projects were purposively selected in line with the focus of projects members and non-projects members in Dannhauser under Amajuba District municipality to access and investigate the impact of agricultural development projects on poverty alleviation. The study presents the results of assessing those that are in groups and those that are working individually on agricultural production to alleviate poverty. The data was captured using a questionnaire which was administered through face-to-face interviews. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression model were used to analyse and compare the level of livelihood and variables between project and non-project members. The results show that project members are more productive than non-project members. Project members had more access to funding, training, markets and extension services compared to non-members. However, the results further showed that being a project member attracts some rewards which end up improving the living standards as well as alleviates the poverty levels of farmers, whereas working as an individual limits the farmer(s) from receiving reasonable government assistance such as funding and extension services delivery. The descriptive results indicated that members of most rural households were relatively old, married, literate but unemployed. Non-project members were dependent on remittances, social grants and pension funds because the farming strategy could not meet all their household needs. However, The major crops that were grown for income and food security to maintain their livelihoods include: maize, potatoes, onions, butternut, carrots, cabbage and dry beans. Factors that had significant influences on outcomes were extension services, grants, pension and remittances, land productivity, market accessibility, output difference and livelihood. The available opportunities for project members were access to land, funding, markets, infrastructure, inputs and support services from government institutions, as well as NGO’s.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Mabaso, Siphesihle Merit
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Agricultural development projects , Poor -- Services for -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11217 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019770 , Poverty -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Agricultural development projects , Poor -- Services for -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Description: The study determined the impact of agricultural development projects on poverty alleviation at Amajuba district municipality. Data was drawn from 100 respondents, projects were purposively selected in line with the focus of projects members and non-projects members in Dannhauser under Amajuba District municipality to access and investigate the impact of agricultural development projects on poverty alleviation. The study presents the results of assessing those that are in groups and those that are working individually on agricultural production to alleviate poverty. The data was captured using a questionnaire which was administered through face-to-face interviews. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression model were used to analyse and compare the level of livelihood and variables between project and non-project members. The results show that project members are more productive than non-project members. Project members had more access to funding, training, markets and extension services compared to non-members. However, the results further showed that being a project member attracts some rewards which end up improving the living standards as well as alleviates the poverty levels of farmers, whereas working as an individual limits the farmer(s) from receiving reasonable government assistance such as funding and extension services delivery. The descriptive results indicated that members of most rural households were relatively old, married, literate but unemployed. Non-project members were dependent on remittances, social grants and pension funds because the farming strategy could not meet all their household needs. However, The major crops that were grown for income and food security to maintain their livelihoods include: maize, potatoes, onions, butternut, carrots, cabbage and dry beans. Factors that had significant influences on outcomes were extension services, grants, pension and remittances, land productivity, market accessibility, output difference and livelihood. The available opportunities for project members were access to land, funding, markets, infrastructure, inputs and support services from government institutions, as well as NGO’s.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Impact of translucent water-based acrylic paint on the thermal performance of a low cost house
- Authors: Overen, Ochuko Kelvin
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Physics)
- Identifier: vital:11598 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019777
- Description: Insulation materials are selected based on their R-value, which is a measure of the thermal resistance of a material. Therefore, the higher the R-value of a material, the better its thermal insulation performance. There are two major groups of insulation materials: bulk and reflective insulation (or combine bulk and reflective). Bulk insulation is design to resist heat transfer due to conduction and convection. Reflective insulation resists radiant heat flow due to its high reflectivity and low emissivity. Insulation materials are not restricted to these materials only. Other low thermal conductive materials can be used as long as the primary aim of thermal insulation, which is increasing thermal resistance, is achieved. Hence, the aim of the project is to investigate the insulation ability of Translucent Water-based Acrylic Paint (TWAP) on the thermal performance of Low Cost Housing (LCH). To achieve the aim of the study, the inner surfaces of the external walls of LCH was coated with TWAP. Before the inner surfaces of the external walls were coated, the following techniques were used to characterised the paint; Scanning Electron Microscopy/ Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDX), Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR) and IR thermography. SEM/EDX was adapted to view the surface morphology and to detect the elemental composition responsible for the thermal resistance of the TWAP. FTIR spectroscopy was used to determine the functional group and organic molecular composition of the paint. The heat resistance of TWAP was analyzed using IR thermography technique. A low cost house located in the Golf Course settlement in Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa under the Nkonkobe Municipality Eastern Cape was used as a case study in this research. The house is facing geographical N16°E, It comprises a bedroom, toilet and an open plan living room and kitchen. The house has a floor dimension of 7.20 m x 5.70 m, giving an approximate area of 41 m2. The roof is made of galvanized corrugated iron sheets with no ceiling or any form of roof insulation. The walls of the buildings are made of the M6 (0.39 m 0.19 m x 0.14 m) hollow concrete blocks, with no plaster or insulation. The following meteorological parameters were measured: temperature, relative humidity, solar irradiance, wind speed and wind direction. Eleven type-K thermocouples were used to measure the indoor temperature, inner and outer surfaces temperature of the building walls. Two sets of HMP50 humidity sensors were used to measure the indoor and outdoor relative humidity as well as the ambient temperature. The indoor temperature and relative humidity were measured at a height of 1.80 m so as to have good indoor parameter variation patterns that are not influenced by the roof temperature. The outdoor relative humidity sensor together with a 03001 wind sentry anemometer/vane and Li-Cor pyranometer were installed at a height of 0.44 m above the roof of the building. Wind speed and direction were measured by the 03001 wind sentry anemometer/vane, while solar radiation was measured by the Li-Cor pyranometer. The entire set of sensors was connected to a CR1000 data logger from which data are stored and retrieved following a setup program.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Overen, Ochuko Kelvin
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Physics)
- Identifier: vital:11598 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019777
- Description: Insulation materials are selected based on their R-value, which is a measure of the thermal resistance of a material. Therefore, the higher the R-value of a material, the better its thermal insulation performance. There are two major groups of insulation materials: bulk and reflective insulation (or combine bulk and reflective). Bulk insulation is design to resist heat transfer due to conduction and convection. Reflective insulation resists radiant heat flow due to its high reflectivity and low emissivity. Insulation materials are not restricted to these materials only. Other low thermal conductive materials can be used as long as the primary aim of thermal insulation, which is increasing thermal resistance, is achieved. Hence, the aim of the project is to investigate the insulation ability of Translucent Water-based Acrylic Paint (TWAP) on the thermal performance of Low Cost Housing (LCH). To achieve the aim of the study, the inner surfaces of the external walls of LCH was coated with TWAP. Before the inner surfaces of the external walls were coated, the following techniques were used to characterised the paint; Scanning Electron Microscopy/ Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDX), Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR) and IR thermography. SEM/EDX was adapted to view the surface morphology and to detect the elemental composition responsible for the thermal resistance of the TWAP. FTIR spectroscopy was used to determine the functional group and organic molecular composition of the paint. The heat resistance of TWAP was analyzed using IR thermography technique. A low cost house located in the Golf Course settlement in Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa under the Nkonkobe Municipality Eastern Cape was used as a case study in this research. The house is facing geographical N16°E, It comprises a bedroom, toilet and an open plan living room and kitchen. The house has a floor dimension of 7.20 m x 5.70 m, giving an approximate area of 41 m2. The roof is made of galvanized corrugated iron sheets with no ceiling or any form of roof insulation. The walls of the buildings are made of the M6 (0.39 m 0.19 m x 0.14 m) hollow concrete blocks, with no plaster or insulation. The following meteorological parameters were measured: temperature, relative humidity, solar irradiance, wind speed and wind direction. Eleven type-K thermocouples were used to measure the indoor temperature, inner and outer surfaces temperature of the building walls. Two sets of HMP50 humidity sensors were used to measure the indoor and outdoor relative humidity as well as the ambient temperature. The indoor temperature and relative humidity were measured at a height of 1.80 m so as to have good indoor parameter variation patterns that are not influenced by the roof temperature. The outdoor relative humidity sensor together with a 03001 wind sentry anemometer/vane and Li-Cor pyranometer were installed at a height of 0.44 m above the roof of the building. Wind speed and direction were measured by the 03001 wind sentry anemometer/vane, while solar radiation was measured by the Li-Cor pyranometer. The entire set of sensors was connected to a CR1000 data logger from which data are stored and retrieved following a setup program.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Implementation of a facebook crawler for opinion monitoring and trend analysis purposes: a case study of government service delivery in Dwesa
- Mfenyana, Sinesihle Ignetious
- Authors: Mfenyana, Sinesihle Ignetious
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Online social networks -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social media -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Internet -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Web-based user interfaces -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , User interfaces (Computer systems) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Computer Science)
- Identifier: vital:11394 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016067 , Online social networks -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social media -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Internet -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Web-based user interfaces -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , User interfaces (Computer systems) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The Internet has shifted from the Web 1.0 era to the Web 2.0 era. In the contemporary era of web 2.0, the Internet is being used to build and reflect social relationships among people who share similar interests and activities. This is done through services such as Social Networking Sites (Facebook, Twitter etc.) and the web blogs. Currently, there is a very high usage of Social Networking Sites (SNSs) and blogs where people share their views, opinions, and thoughts. This leads to the production of a lot of data by people who post such content on SNSs. As a result, SNSs and blogs become the ideal platforms for opinion monitoring and the trend analysis. These SNSs and Blogs could be used by service providers for tracking what the public thinks or requires. The reason being, having such knowledge can help in decision making and future planning. If service providers can keep track of such views, opinions or thoughts with regard to the services they provide, they can better their understanding about the public or clients’ needs and improve the provision of relevant services. This research project presents a system prototype for performing opinion monitoring and trend analysis on Facebook. The proposed system crawl Facebook, indexes the data and provides user interface (UI) where end users can search and see the trending of a topics of their choice. The system prototype could also be used to check the trending topics without having to search. The main objective of this research project was to develop a framework that will contribute in improving the way government officials, companies or any service providers and normal citizens communicate regarding services they provide. This research project is premised on the conceptualization that if the government officials, companies or any service providers can keep track of the citizen’s opinions, views and thoughts with regards to services they provide it can help improve the delivery of such services. This research and the implementation of the trend analysis tool is undertaken in the context of the Siyakhula Living Lab (SLL), an Information and Communication Technologies for Development (ICTD) intervention for Dwesa marginalized community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Mfenyana, Sinesihle Ignetious
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Online social networks -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social media -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Internet -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Web-based user interfaces -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , User interfaces (Computer systems) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Computer Science)
- Identifier: vital:11394 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016067 , Online social networks -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social media -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Internet -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Web-based user interfaces -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , User interfaces (Computer systems) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The Internet has shifted from the Web 1.0 era to the Web 2.0 era. In the contemporary era of web 2.0, the Internet is being used to build and reflect social relationships among people who share similar interests and activities. This is done through services such as Social Networking Sites (Facebook, Twitter etc.) and the web blogs. Currently, there is a very high usage of Social Networking Sites (SNSs) and blogs where people share their views, opinions, and thoughts. This leads to the production of a lot of data by people who post such content on SNSs. As a result, SNSs and blogs become the ideal platforms for opinion monitoring and the trend analysis. These SNSs and Blogs could be used by service providers for tracking what the public thinks or requires. The reason being, having such knowledge can help in decision making and future planning. If service providers can keep track of such views, opinions or thoughts with regard to the services they provide, they can better their understanding about the public or clients’ needs and improve the provision of relevant services. This research project presents a system prototype for performing opinion monitoring and trend analysis on Facebook. The proposed system crawl Facebook, indexes the data and provides user interface (UI) where end users can search and see the trending of a topics of their choice. The system prototype could also be used to check the trending topics without having to search. The main objective of this research project was to develop a framework that will contribute in improving the way government officials, companies or any service providers and normal citizens communicate regarding services they provide. This research project is premised on the conceptualization that if the government officials, companies or any service providers can keep track of the citizen’s opinions, views and thoughts with regards to services they provide it can help improve the delivery of such services. This research and the implementation of the trend analysis tool is undertaken in the context of the Siyakhula Living Lab (SLL), an Information and Communication Technologies for Development (ICTD) intervention for Dwesa marginalized community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Investigating the provision of nutritional support to critically ill hospitalised patients by registered nurses in East London public and private hospitals in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mooi, Nomaxabiso Mildred
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Nutritional support , Critical illness , Critical Care units , Registered nurses
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11910 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015533 , Nutritional support , Critical illness , Critical Care units , Registered nurses
- Description: Critical illness is typically associated with a catabolic stress state in which patients commonly demonstrate a systemic inflammatory response that brings about changes in their body systems. Changes in the body systems make the critically ill dependent on mechanical ventilation and inotropic support for longer periods in order to survive. However, this inflammatory response can be attenuated by the timely introduction of nutritional support to provide energy and nutrients to diminish catabolism and promote anabolism. The result could be a decrease in the morbidity and mortality rates, as well as the financial burden on the patients, institutions and the state. Since registered nurses initiate and utilise feeding protocols to achieve target goals, there is a strong need for nurse-initiated feeding protocols. These protocols should be coupled with a comprehensive nurse-directed nutritional educational intervention that will focus on their safe and effective implementation. This focus on nursing nutrition education represents a major shift away from traditional education which has focused on dietitians and physicians. Evidence suggests that incorporating guideline recommendations into nurse-initiated protocols for starting and advancing enteral feedings is an effective strategy to improve the delivery of nutritional support. The study was aimed at exploring the provision of nutritional support to critically ill hospitalised patients by registered nurses to identify and describe possible gaps in the practice, through determining the potential relationship between the provision of nutritional support and characteristics of its providers. A quantitative, descriptive correlational study was undertaken. Seventy registered nurses working in neonatal/paediatric and adult critical care units in two public and three private hospitals in East London in the Eastern Cape participated in the study. The sample also included public critical care students. The results showed that registered nurses in private hospitals have more knowledge about the importance of nutritional support than their public hospital counterparts and students. The mean score was on the question was 80.3% with the highest score of 91% which was for the private hospital nurses, followed by 77.2% for public and 71.4% for students. Again, the mean score for knowledge on timing of initiating nutritional support was 48%, the highest score being 69.4% for students followed by private hospital nurses with 49.6%. Close to 63% (n = 44) of these nurses were either unsure about the availability of nutritional protocols or clearly attested to their non-availability. This is seen as an issue of concern because a protocol is meant to be a standard document with which all members of the ICU should be familiar. It is meant to guide and facilitate the manner of working in the unit. While facilitation of maintenance of nutritional support to patients is the responsibility of registered nurses, according to Regulation 2598(1984) section 45 (1) (q) of the South African Nursing Council, 68% (n = 48) of the respondents felt that this was in the practising scope of doctors and dietitians. The study concluded that the nurses are knowledgeable about the importance of nutritional support but knowledge gaps have been identified as far as the timing of initiating nutritional support is concerned. Some attested to unavailability of standard guidelines that are tailored into protocols guiding the provision of nutritional support by registered nurses in the critical care units. Nutrition should be prioritised as an important therapy for improving the outcomes of critically ill patients. Nurses need to analyse its provision, identify barriers to nutritional strategies and engage in nutritional education to empower themselves regarding the practice. Most importantly, there is a need for nurse-initiated nutritional protocols that are tailored from the broad nutritional guidelines and aligned with the local context and ways of practising. Nutritional support should be included as a key component of the curriculum in academic programmes that specialise in critical care nursing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Mooi, Nomaxabiso Mildred
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Nutritional support , Critical illness , Critical Care units , Registered nurses
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11910 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015533 , Nutritional support , Critical illness , Critical Care units , Registered nurses
- Description: Critical illness is typically associated with a catabolic stress state in which patients commonly demonstrate a systemic inflammatory response that brings about changes in their body systems. Changes in the body systems make the critically ill dependent on mechanical ventilation and inotropic support for longer periods in order to survive. However, this inflammatory response can be attenuated by the timely introduction of nutritional support to provide energy and nutrients to diminish catabolism and promote anabolism. The result could be a decrease in the morbidity and mortality rates, as well as the financial burden on the patients, institutions and the state. Since registered nurses initiate and utilise feeding protocols to achieve target goals, there is a strong need for nurse-initiated feeding protocols. These protocols should be coupled with a comprehensive nurse-directed nutritional educational intervention that will focus on their safe and effective implementation. This focus on nursing nutrition education represents a major shift away from traditional education which has focused on dietitians and physicians. Evidence suggests that incorporating guideline recommendations into nurse-initiated protocols for starting and advancing enteral feedings is an effective strategy to improve the delivery of nutritional support. The study was aimed at exploring the provision of nutritional support to critically ill hospitalised patients by registered nurses to identify and describe possible gaps in the practice, through determining the potential relationship between the provision of nutritional support and characteristics of its providers. A quantitative, descriptive correlational study was undertaken. Seventy registered nurses working in neonatal/paediatric and adult critical care units in two public and three private hospitals in East London in the Eastern Cape participated in the study. The sample also included public critical care students. The results showed that registered nurses in private hospitals have more knowledge about the importance of nutritional support than their public hospital counterparts and students. The mean score was on the question was 80.3% with the highest score of 91% which was for the private hospital nurses, followed by 77.2% for public and 71.4% for students. Again, the mean score for knowledge on timing of initiating nutritional support was 48%, the highest score being 69.4% for students followed by private hospital nurses with 49.6%. Close to 63% (n = 44) of these nurses were either unsure about the availability of nutritional protocols or clearly attested to their non-availability. This is seen as an issue of concern because a protocol is meant to be a standard document with which all members of the ICU should be familiar. It is meant to guide and facilitate the manner of working in the unit. While facilitation of maintenance of nutritional support to patients is the responsibility of registered nurses, according to Regulation 2598(1984) section 45 (1) (q) of the South African Nursing Council, 68% (n = 48) of the respondents felt that this was in the practising scope of doctors and dietitians. The study concluded that the nurses are knowledgeable about the importance of nutritional support but knowledge gaps have been identified as far as the timing of initiating nutritional support is concerned. Some attested to unavailability of standard guidelines that are tailored into protocols guiding the provision of nutritional support by registered nurses in the critical care units. Nutrition should be prioritised as an important therapy for improving the outcomes of critically ill patients. Nurses need to analyse its provision, identify barriers to nutritional strategies and engage in nutritional education to empower themselves regarding the practice. Most importantly, there is a need for nurse-initiated nutritional protocols that are tailored from the broad nutritional guidelines and aligned with the local context and ways of practising. Nutritional support should be included as a key component of the curriculum in academic programmes that specialise in critical care nursing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Investigation of the NFC technology for mobile payments and the development of a prototype payment application in the context of marginalized rural areas
- Authors: Gurajena, Caroline
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Computer Science)
- Identifier: vital:11401 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1020243
- Description: Both communication, and the methods and tools of commerce have evolved over time through the invention of new technologies. The latest of these technologies are mobile devices and electronic commerce respectively. The combination of these two technologies has resulted in the creation of electronic commerce which also enables mobile payments. Mobile payments (mpayments) are enabled by many technologies with Near Field Communication (NFC) being the most recent one. NFC is a wireless technology that enables mobile devices in close proximity to exchange data. The mobile device has already been enthusiastically accepted by the customers and they carry it with them wherever they go and this makes it a good device for providing a payment method alternative. This research looks at contactless mobile payment as a payment method. Customers in marginalized rural areas lack a payment alternative to cash hence in this research we are investigating and proposing the use of a NFC enabled mobile payment application for Marginalized Rural Areas. This research extensively evaluates and assesses the potential of using NFC enabled m-payments in Marginalized Rural Areas in South Africa by carrying out an investigation of the technology and its acceptance by customers. The investigation of the technology included implementation of a prototype application which was used to introduce the technology to the consumers. The customer acceptance of the NFC enabled mobile payments was evaluated using the Technology Acceptance model (TAM). The model was modified to suit the context of this study by adding more constructs. This research concluded that Near Field Communication enabled m-payments have great potential to be used and accepted by people in the marginalized rural areas.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Gurajena, Caroline
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Computer Science)
- Identifier: vital:11401 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1020243
- Description: Both communication, and the methods and tools of commerce have evolved over time through the invention of new technologies. The latest of these technologies are mobile devices and electronic commerce respectively. The combination of these two technologies has resulted in the creation of electronic commerce which also enables mobile payments. Mobile payments (mpayments) are enabled by many technologies with Near Field Communication (NFC) being the most recent one. NFC is a wireless technology that enables mobile devices in close proximity to exchange data. The mobile device has already been enthusiastically accepted by the customers and they carry it with them wherever they go and this makes it a good device for providing a payment method alternative. This research looks at contactless mobile payment as a payment method. Customers in marginalized rural areas lack a payment alternative to cash hence in this research we are investigating and proposing the use of a NFC enabled mobile payment application for Marginalized Rural Areas. This research extensively evaluates and assesses the potential of using NFC enabled m-payments in Marginalized Rural Areas in South Africa by carrying out an investigation of the technology and its acceptance by customers. The investigation of the technology included implementation of a prototype application which was used to introduce the technology to the consumers. The customer acceptance of the NFC enabled mobile payments was evaluated using the Technology Acceptance model (TAM). The model was modified to suit the context of this study by adding more constructs. This research concluded that Near Field Communication enabled m-payments have great potential to be used and accepted by people in the marginalized rural areas.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Isolation, Characterisation, and biological activity evaluation of essential Oils of Cymbopogon validus (Stapf) Stapf ex Burtt Davy and Hyparrhenia hirta (L.) Stapf
- Authors: Rungqu, Pamela
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Chemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11354 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021283
- Description: Cymbopogon validus and Hyparrhenia hirta belong to the Poaceae botanical family. Both plants are used as thatching material; H. hirta is also used for weaving mats and baskets. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of C. validus and H. hirta essential oils on fresh egg-albumin induced edema on Wistar rats. To fully understand the chemically induced anti-inflammatory properties of these plants, we first analyzed the chemical composition of the essential oils. The essential oils were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). In C. validus, 13 compounds accounted for 74.3% of fresh leaves oil, 14 compounds 71.8% of dried leaves oil and 12 compounds 73.3% of flower oil were identified from the GC-MS Chromatogram. The percentage yields were as follows fresh leaves oil 2.2%, dried leaves oil 2.0% and flower oil 2.4% v/w respectively. Linalool (3.2-29.6%) and northujane (4.4-16.9%) were the dominant compounds found in the 3 oils analyzed. While, α-terpineol 37.5% and verbenone 13.5% was only found in the fresh leaf oil, this was absent in the dried leaves oil and the flowers oil of C. validus. In H. hirta, 25 compounds accounted for 68.1% of fresh leaves oil, 40 compounds 71.9% of dried leaves oil, 23 compounds 77.6% of fresh flowers oil and 18 compounds 80.1% of dried flowers oil were identified from the GC-MS Chromatogram. The percentage yields obtained from the different parts were 3.4% for fresh leaves oil, 2.8% for dried leaves oil, 2.8% for fresh flowers oil and 0.7% for dried flowers oil v/w respectively. Northujane (8.5-30.0%), diisooctyl phthalate (4.4-26.5%), phytone (1.1-10.4%) were the dominant compounds found in the 4 oils analyzed. While, dibutyl phthalate 26.9% was only found in the fresh flowers and was absent in the dried flowers oil. Moreover, caryophyllene oxide (1.7-9.6%) was found in fresh leaves and dried flowers oil of H. hirta. In vivo analysis revealed that the two essential oils displayed significant edema inhibition effect overtime. They displayed strong anti-inflammatory properties when compared to control group. However, the H. hirta essential oil was more effective than that of C. validus. Linalool, α-terpineol, and northujane extracted from C. validus and H. hirta essential oils might have contributed to the anti-inflammatory effects observed in Wistar rats. This study, confirms the anti-inflammatory properties of C. validus and H. hirta suggesting that they may be used in diseases related to anti-inflammation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Rungqu, Pamela
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Chemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11354 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021283
- Description: Cymbopogon validus and Hyparrhenia hirta belong to the Poaceae botanical family. Both plants are used as thatching material; H. hirta is also used for weaving mats and baskets. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of C. validus and H. hirta essential oils on fresh egg-albumin induced edema on Wistar rats. To fully understand the chemically induced anti-inflammatory properties of these plants, we first analyzed the chemical composition of the essential oils. The essential oils were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). In C. validus, 13 compounds accounted for 74.3% of fresh leaves oil, 14 compounds 71.8% of dried leaves oil and 12 compounds 73.3% of flower oil were identified from the GC-MS Chromatogram. The percentage yields were as follows fresh leaves oil 2.2%, dried leaves oil 2.0% and flower oil 2.4% v/w respectively. Linalool (3.2-29.6%) and northujane (4.4-16.9%) were the dominant compounds found in the 3 oils analyzed. While, α-terpineol 37.5% and verbenone 13.5% was only found in the fresh leaf oil, this was absent in the dried leaves oil and the flowers oil of C. validus. In H. hirta, 25 compounds accounted for 68.1% of fresh leaves oil, 40 compounds 71.9% of dried leaves oil, 23 compounds 77.6% of fresh flowers oil and 18 compounds 80.1% of dried flowers oil were identified from the GC-MS Chromatogram. The percentage yields obtained from the different parts were 3.4% for fresh leaves oil, 2.8% for dried leaves oil, 2.8% for fresh flowers oil and 0.7% for dried flowers oil v/w respectively. Northujane (8.5-30.0%), diisooctyl phthalate (4.4-26.5%), phytone (1.1-10.4%) were the dominant compounds found in the 4 oils analyzed. While, dibutyl phthalate 26.9% was only found in the fresh flowers and was absent in the dried flowers oil. Moreover, caryophyllene oxide (1.7-9.6%) was found in fresh leaves and dried flowers oil of H. hirta. In vivo analysis revealed that the two essential oils displayed significant edema inhibition effect overtime. They displayed strong anti-inflammatory properties when compared to control group. However, the H. hirta essential oil was more effective than that of C. validus. Linalool, α-terpineol, and northujane extracted from C. validus and H. hirta essential oils might have contributed to the anti-inflammatory effects observed in Wistar rats. This study, confirms the anti-inflammatory properties of C. validus and H. hirta suggesting that they may be used in diseases related to anti-inflammation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Modelling payment systems for environmental services in the Mt Elgon ecosystem of Kenya
- Authors: Kisaka, Lily
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Ecological disturbances -- Kenya , Freshwater ecology -- Kenya , Water quality biological assessment -- Kenya , Land degradation -- Kenya , Ecosystem health -- Kenya
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11206 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1013123 , Ecological disturbances -- Kenya , Freshwater ecology -- Kenya , Water quality biological assessment -- Kenya , Land degradation -- Kenya , Ecosystem health -- Kenya
- Description: Unsustainable patterns of consumption by humankind have increased the rate of change in the natural ecosystems and consequently the levels of stress experienced within the environment. Access to sufficient good quality water is essential and a requirement to meet a number of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). However, poor land management and untenable agricultural practices have become the main drivers of the declining watershed services. Upstream farmers often have little or no incentives to take these impacts into account in their decision-making process. Therefore, without investment in ensuring proper land management, the trend in watersheds degradation will continue. Payment for Environmental Services (PES) has emerged as an incentive–based tool that is expected to motivate farmers to improve their agricultural practices. PES is set up to facilitate the process whereby the beneficiaries of environmental services pay compensation to providers of environmental services for conserving the ecosystem. This tool has received increasing attention as a means of creating incentive measures for managing the ecosystem, addressing livelihood issues for the rural poor, and providing sustainable financing for protected areas. The Government of Kenya, as part of its efforts to improve water resource management, is considering use of economic incentive. However, there is insufficient information to guide policy making in that direction. Little is known about the farmers’ preferences for management schemes that will affect land use patterns, their willingness to accept compensation and the willingness of potential buyers to pay for the services. This study evaluates the willingness to accept and the willingness to pay for environmental services with a view to assessing the viability of a PES scheme for the Kuywa Watershed in particular, as well as the Mt. Elgon Ecosystem and other areas with similar conditions. The objectives of the study are threefold (i) to examine respondents preferences for management options for the provision of environmental services in the watershed of River Kuywa of Mt. Elgon Ecosystem; (ii) to evaluate households’ willingness to pay (WTP) and willingness to accept (WTA) payment for improved environmental services from the River Kuywa watershed; and (iii) to propose viable PES approaches for the management of the natural resource of the Kuywa watershed and the Mt. Elgon ecosystem in general. Using six land management attributes relevant to the local situation, the study applied the conjoint method to evaluate farmers’ preferences for management options for the provision of environmental service and assess farmers’ willingness to pay and willingness to accept payment for environmental services. To enable assessment of viability, an analysis was done of the institutional and legal framework within which the PES scheme would operate. Data were collected using literature review and document analysis, questionnaires, focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Results indicate that poor water quality was the most acute problem, followed by deforestation. Results from the conjoint models show that the length of commitment period and land size that is 40% or more of the total land holding influence the farmers’ rating of the management scenarios. The study found that a management contract that requires use of 20% of land holding for a period of 5 years, combined with a cash incentive, harvesting partially permitted, administered by a local NGO and requiring contribution of free labour for two days had the highest likelihood of being selected. The conjoint valuation exercise also came up with a WTA by farmers upstream of KSh. 7,080/= per year. The corresponding value downstream was KSh. 43/= per month over and above their regular water bill. In terms of the institutional and regulatory framework, Kenya has a wide range of policies, laws and regulation on water and other natural resources which provide an enabling environment for PES. With the decentralized institutional setup implemented in both the water sector and the agricultural sector, the institutional setting also provides an enabling environment for PES. With a positive WTA and WTP coupled with an enabling legal and institutional environment, the study concludes that PES is a viable environmental management tool for the Kuywa water shed and similar watersheds.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Kisaka, Lily
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Ecological disturbances -- Kenya , Freshwater ecology -- Kenya , Water quality biological assessment -- Kenya , Land degradation -- Kenya , Ecosystem health -- Kenya
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11206 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1013123 , Ecological disturbances -- Kenya , Freshwater ecology -- Kenya , Water quality biological assessment -- Kenya , Land degradation -- Kenya , Ecosystem health -- Kenya
- Description: Unsustainable patterns of consumption by humankind have increased the rate of change in the natural ecosystems and consequently the levels of stress experienced within the environment. Access to sufficient good quality water is essential and a requirement to meet a number of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). However, poor land management and untenable agricultural practices have become the main drivers of the declining watershed services. Upstream farmers often have little or no incentives to take these impacts into account in their decision-making process. Therefore, without investment in ensuring proper land management, the trend in watersheds degradation will continue. Payment for Environmental Services (PES) has emerged as an incentive–based tool that is expected to motivate farmers to improve their agricultural practices. PES is set up to facilitate the process whereby the beneficiaries of environmental services pay compensation to providers of environmental services for conserving the ecosystem. This tool has received increasing attention as a means of creating incentive measures for managing the ecosystem, addressing livelihood issues for the rural poor, and providing sustainable financing for protected areas. The Government of Kenya, as part of its efforts to improve water resource management, is considering use of economic incentive. However, there is insufficient information to guide policy making in that direction. Little is known about the farmers’ preferences for management schemes that will affect land use patterns, their willingness to accept compensation and the willingness of potential buyers to pay for the services. This study evaluates the willingness to accept and the willingness to pay for environmental services with a view to assessing the viability of a PES scheme for the Kuywa Watershed in particular, as well as the Mt. Elgon Ecosystem and other areas with similar conditions. The objectives of the study are threefold (i) to examine respondents preferences for management options for the provision of environmental services in the watershed of River Kuywa of Mt. Elgon Ecosystem; (ii) to evaluate households’ willingness to pay (WTP) and willingness to accept (WTA) payment for improved environmental services from the River Kuywa watershed; and (iii) to propose viable PES approaches for the management of the natural resource of the Kuywa watershed and the Mt. Elgon ecosystem in general. Using six land management attributes relevant to the local situation, the study applied the conjoint method to evaluate farmers’ preferences for management options for the provision of environmental service and assess farmers’ willingness to pay and willingness to accept payment for environmental services. To enable assessment of viability, an analysis was done of the institutional and legal framework within which the PES scheme would operate. Data were collected using literature review and document analysis, questionnaires, focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Results indicate that poor water quality was the most acute problem, followed by deforestation. Results from the conjoint models show that the length of commitment period and land size that is 40% or more of the total land holding influence the farmers’ rating of the management scenarios. The study found that a management contract that requires use of 20% of land holding for a period of 5 years, combined with a cash incentive, harvesting partially permitted, administered by a local NGO and requiring contribution of free labour for two days had the highest likelihood of being selected. The conjoint valuation exercise also came up with a WTA by farmers upstream of KSh. 7,080/= per year. The corresponding value downstream was KSh. 43/= per month over and above their regular water bill. In terms of the institutional and regulatory framework, Kenya has a wide range of policies, laws and regulation on water and other natural resources which provide an enabling environment for PES. With the decentralized institutional setup implemented in both the water sector and the agricultural sector, the institutional setting also provides an enabling environment for PES. With a positive WTA and WTP coupled with an enabling legal and institutional environment, the study concludes that PES is a viable environmental management tool for the Kuywa water shed and similar watersheds.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Molecular study of mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) DNA from Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Londiwe, Bhembe Nolwazi
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Mycobacterium tuberculosis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Microbiology)
- Identifier: vital:11281 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016163 , Mycobacterium tuberculosis
- Description: Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) is a causative agent of tuberculosis (TB) in humans and animals. The burden of tuberculosis in South Africa is worsened by the concurrent epidemic of HIV. The dynamic of TB epidemics has been investigated and yet little data has been given about the Eastern Cape, particularly Port Elizabeth. The study aimed to investigate the prevalence of drug resistant MTBC and to determine the mutations causing resistance in Port Elizabeth. One hundred and ninety (190) DNA samples isolated from sputum specimen in humans suspected of having TB were amplified using the Seeplex® MTB Nested ACE detection assay. To differentiate Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) members for surveillance purposes a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method was done based on genomic regions of differences such as RD1, RD1mic, RD2seal, RD4, RD9 and RD12. Target genes known to confer resistance to first and second-line drugs were amplified and the amplicons sequenced using Big Dye Terminator DNA sequencing kit v3.1 (Applied Biosystems, UK). The patient’s demographic profiles were obtained from the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS). All hundred and ninety DNA samples tested positive for MTBC using the Seeplex® MTB Nested ACE assay. Results show a high prevalence of extensive drug resistant TB in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape Province. One hundred and eighty four (184) DNA isolates were used in the identification of different MTBC species. We ended up working with 184 DNA isolates because we ran out of DNA, and we could not go back to isolate DNA from the affected individuals due to the fact that some patients died, while some have been released to go to their homes. From the 184 DNA isolates 45 (24.5%) isolates were identified to be M. tuberculosis, 94 isolates (51.1%) to be M. bovis BCG and 3 isolates (1.6%) to be M. cannetti. Sequencing results show the position of mutation in each DNA isolate; however in the study we got resistance to MDR to be 100% and 42% pre-XDR while 58% was XDR. These results raise an alarm for the prevalence MDR in MTBC from Port Elizabeth. This is a serious health concern which calls for a need to strategise on the identification of extensive drug resistant TB patients from multi-drug resistant TB patients and ensure monitoring of their treatment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Londiwe, Bhembe Nolwazi
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Mycobacterium tuberculosis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Microbiology)
- Identifier: vital:11281 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016163 , Mycobacterium tuberculosis
- Description: Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) is a causative agent of tuberculosis (TB) in humans and animals. The burden of tuberculosis in South Africa is worsened by the concurrent epidemic of HIV. The dynamic of TB epidemics has been investigated and yet little data has been given about the Eastern Cape, particularly Port Elizabeth. The study aimed to investigate the prevalence of drug resistant MTBC and to determine the mutations causing resistance in Port Elizabeth. One hundred and ninety (190) DNA samples isolated from sputum specimen in humans suspected of having TB were amplified using the Seeplex® MTB Nested ACE detection assay. To differentiate Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) members for surveillance purposes a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method was done based on genomic regions of differences such as RD1, RD1mic, RD2seal, RD4, RD9 and RD12. Target genes known to confer resistance to first and second-line drugs were amplified and the amplicons sequenced using Big Dye Terminator DNA sequencing kit v3.1 (Applied Biosystems, UK). The patient’s demographic profiles were obtained from the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS). All hundred and ninety DNA samples tested positive for MTBC using the Seeplex® MTB Nested ACE assay. Results show a high prevalence of extensive drug resistant TB in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape Province. One hundred and eighty four (184) DNA isolates were used in the identification of different MTBC species. We ended up working with 184 DNA isolates because we ran out of DNA, and we could not go back to isolate DNA from the affected individuals due to the fact that some patients died, while some have been released to go to their homes. From the 184 DNA isolates 45 (24.5%) isolates were identified to be M. tuberculosis, 94 isolates (51.1%) to be M. bovis BCG and 3 isolates (1.6%) to be M. cannetti. Sequencing results show the position of mutation in each DNA isolate; however in the study we got resistance to MDR to be 100% and 42% pre-XDR while 58% was XDR. These results raise an alarm for the prevalence MDR in MTBC from Port Elizabeth. This is a serious health concern which calls for a need to strategise on the identification of extensive drug resistant TB patients from multi-drug resistant TB patients and ensure monitoring of their treatment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Nature of occurrence and economic potential of granitic pegmatites of Mzimba district in Northern Malawi
- Authors: Salima, Jalf William Joseph
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Geology)
- Identifier: vital:11527 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016192
- Description: A swarm of granitic pegmatites occurs in Mzimba district from northern Kasungu to Kafukure near the western international border with Zambia. The granitic pegmatites are hosted by a mobile belt, within the Mozambiquan orogenic belt (c. 900 - 1800 Ma). They have been dated as 485 Ma. They intruded metasediments of high to medium grade metamorphic rocks of a Precambrian Basement Complex. The dominant trend of the pegmatites is NW - SE, exhibiting a cross-cutting relationship with the country rocks and their contacts with the latter are usually sharp. The six pegmatites investigated in this study are inhomogeneous, composed of a massive quartz core, an intermediate zone composed of a blocky pink K-feldspar rich sub-zone and muscovite rich sub-zone and a wall zone composed of quartz - pink K-feldspar - muscovite mineral assemblage. The Mzimba pegmatites are classified as lithium-caesium-tantalum (LCT) family of rare element granitic pegmatites as described by Černý and Ercit (2005). They belong to the beryl-columbite subtype and beryl-columbite-phosphate subtype of the rare element pegmatites. It is suggested that the pegmatites are the product of magmatic differentiation and that they form roofs of granite plutons lying deep below the current level of erosion. The six pegmatites were sampled and minerals analysed using standard analytical methods such as petrographic microscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis. Mineralogy of the granitic pegmatites indicates that they are predominantly composed of perthitic K-feldspar (perthite), Na-plagioclase (albite), quartz and muscovite as main mineral phases and accessory minerals including beryl, tantalite-columbite (ferrotantalite), iron-titanium oxides (ilmeno-rutile and ilmenite), tourmaline (schorl), garnet (almandine-spessartine) and triplite. Triplite is a very rare mineral found in a few pegmatites around the world, and this is the first reported account of this mineral in the Mzimba pegmatites and probably in Malawi. These minerals are being exploited by artisanal and small scale miners. Trace elements in K-feldspar and muscovite are significant indicators for the evaluation of economic potential of pegmatites as well as for the differentiation degree and origin of the magma. The K/Rb ratio for K-feldspars ranges between 12.72 and 109.38, while for muscovites it is between 16.66 and 82.36 indicating that the pegmatites are moderately evolved. The Ta versus Cs and the Ta versus K/Cs discrimination diagram indicates that all the investigated pegmatites plot above the 20 ppm threshold suggesting that the pegmatites have potential for Ta and Nb mineralization.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Salima, Jalf William Joseph
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Geology)
- Identifier: vital:11527 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016192
- Description: A swarm of granitic pegmatites occurs in Mzimba district from northern Kasungu to Kafukure near the western international border with Zambia. The granitic pegmatites are hosted by a mobile belt, within the Mozambiquan orogenic belt (c. 900 - 1800 Ma). They have been dated as 485 Ma. They intruded metasediments of high to medium grade metamorphic rocks of a Precambrian Basement Complex. The dominant trend of the pegmatites is NW - SE, exhibiting a cross-cutting relationship with the country rocks and their contacts with the latter are usually sharp. The six pegmatites investigated in this study are inhomogeneous, composed of a massive quartz core, an intermediate zone composed of a blocky pink K-feldspar rich sub-zone and muscovite rich sub-zone and a wall zone composed of quartz - pink K-feldspar - muscovite mineral assemblage. The Mzimba pegmatites are classified as lithium-caesium-tantalum (LCT) family of rare element granitic pegmatites as described by Černý and Ercit (2005). They belong to the beryl-columbite subtype and beryl-columbite-phosphate subtype of the rare element pegmatites. It is suggested that the pegmatites are the product of magmatic differentiation and that they form roofs of granite plutons lying deep below the current level of erosion. The six pegmatites were sampled and minerals analysed using standard analytical methods such as petrographic microscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis. Mineralogy of the granitic pegmatites indicates that they are predominantly composed of perthitic K-feldspar (perthite), Na-plagioclase (albite), quartz and muscovite as main mineral phases and accessory minerals including beryl, tantalite-columbite (ferrotantalite), iron-titanium oxides (ilmeno-rutile and ilmenite), tourmaline (schorl), garnet (almandine-spessartine) and triplite. Triplite is a very rare mineral found in a few pegmatites around the world, and this is the first reported account of this mineral in the Mzimba pegmatites and probably in Malawi. These minerals are being exploited by artisanal and small scale miners. Trace elements in K-feldspar and muscovite are significant indicators for the evaluation of economic potential of pegmatites as well as for the differentiation degree and origin of the magma. The K/Rb ratio for K-feldspars ranges between 12.72 and 109.38, while for muscovites it is between 16.66 and 82.36 indicating that the pegmatites are moderately evolved. The Ta versus Cs and the Ta versus K/Cs discrimination diagram indicates that all the investigated pegmatites plot above the 20 ppm threshold suggesting that the pegmatites have potential for Ta and Nb mineralization.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Optimization of the vermidegradation of cow dung – waste paper mixtures
- Authors: Unuofin, Frank Oshioname
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Biodegradation , Vermicomposting , Waste paper , Earthworm culture , Phosphatic fertilizers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Soil Science)
- Identifier: vital:11966 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021276 , Biodegradation , Vermicomposting , Waste paper , Earthworm culture , Phosphatic fertilizers
- Description: Vermicomposting is an eco-friendly waste management strategy. Its successful performance necessitate that key functioning parameters like earthworm stocking density, nutrient enrichment be established for each target waste/waste mixture. One main target waste mixture in South Africa, and in the University of Fort Hare in particular is waste paper mixed with cow dung and rock phosphate (RP) for phosphorus (P) enrichment. This study was carried out to address the following specific objectives, to determine (i) the effect of Eisenia fetida stocking density on the bioconversion of cow dung waste paper mixtures enriched with rock phosphate, (ii) an optimum application rate of low grade South African Rock Phosphate and time required for efficient vermicomposting of cow dung-waste paper mixtures, and (iii) to determine if the phosphorus in RP is responsible for improved biodegradation during the vermicomposting of cow dung-waste paper mixtures. Results of this study revealed that bioconversion of cow dung waste paper mixtures enriched with RP was highly dependent on E. fetida stocking density and time. The stocking density of 12.5 g-worms kg-1 feedstock of the mixtures resulted in highest earthworm growth rate and humification of the waste mixture as reflected by a C: N ratio of < 12, polymerization index (PI) or humic acid/fulvic acid ratio of > 1.9, and a humification index of >13 for the cow dung waste paper mixtures. A germination test carried out also revealed that the resultant vermicompost had no inhibitory effect on the germination of tomato, carrot, and radish. Extractable P increased with stocking density up to 22.5 g-worm kg-1 feedstock, suggesting that for maximum P release from RP enriched wastes, a high stocking density should be considered. Informed by an earlier study which demonstrated that RP improved vermidegration, a follow up study was done to determine the optimum amount of rock phosphate necessary for efficient vermidegradation of cow dung waste paper mixtures while ensuring a phosphorus rich vermicompost. The results showed that addition of RP at rates ≤ 1% P as RP efficiently enhanced the bioconversion of cow dung waste paper mixtures as reflected by low C: N ratio, high polymerization index (PI), HI and HR used as maturity indicators for matured compost. Final vermicompost products obtained at minimum amounts of RP application rates resulted highly humified vermicompost with finer morphological structure, with no inhibitory effect on the germination of tomato, carrot, and radish similar to the ones obtained at higher RP rates. The findings suggest that 1%P as RP application rate is optimum for efficient vermidegradation of cow dung waste paper mixtures. Since P or Ca happen to be the most prevalent elements in most rock phosphate used for compost enrichment, a study was carried out to determine if P or Ca in RP is predominantly responsible for the improved biodegradation of cow-dung waste paper mixture observed during vermicomposting. Phosphorus sources in form of triple superphosphate (TSP), phosphoric acid (PHA) and Ca in form of calcium chloride (CaCl2) salt were compared with rock phosphate. The results from the study indicated that TSP, a water soluble P source, resulted in greater and faster degradation of the waste mixtures than RP while the Ca source had the least effect. With TSP incorporation the compost maturity C: N ratio of 12 was reached within 28 days while RP, PHA and CaCl2 needed 42, 56 and more than 56 days, respectively. The results indicated that P was largely responsible for the enhanced bioconversion of the waste mixtures. This appeared linked to the effect of P to stimulate microbial growth as reflected by higher microbial biomass carbon levels where water soluble P sources were applied. The C: N ratios of the final vermicomposts at day 56 were 10, 11.5, 13, 14, and 23 for TSP, RP,PHA, Control (No P added) and CaCl2 treatments, respectively. Although TSP gave superior superior performance, RP may still be the preferred additive in the vermicomposting of cow dung waste paper mixtures as it is cheaper and produces mature compost in a shorter period of 8 weeks. Generally, the results of this study have shown that the vemidegradation of cow dung waste paper mixtures can be optimized through adoption of an E. fetida stocking density of 12.5g- worm kg-1 and an RP incorporation rate of 1% P as RP. However, higher rates of RPincorporation may be adopted where final vermicomposts with higher P fertilizer value are desired. Phosphorus appears to be the RP constituent responsible for its ability to enhance the vermidegradation of cow dung waste paper mixtures. Future studies should explore the effectiveness of other P-bearing minerals for their effectiveness in enhancing vemidegradation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Unuofin, Frank Oshioname
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Biodegradation , Vermicomposting , Waste paper , Earthworm culture , Phosphatic fertilizers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Soil Science)
- Identifier: vital:11966 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021276 , Biodegradation , Vermicomposting , Waste paper , Earthworm culture , Phosphatic fertilizers
- Description: Vermicomposting is an eco-friendly waste management strategy. Its successful performance necessitate that key functioning parameters like earthworm stocking density, nutrient enrichment be established for each target waste/waste mixture. One main target waste mixture in South Africa, and in the University of Fort Hare in particular is waste paper mixed with cow dung and rock phosphate (RP) for phosphorus (P) enrichment. This study was carried out to address the following specific objectives, to determine (i) the effect of Eisenia fetida stocking density on the bioconversion of cow dung waste paper mixtures enriched with rock phosphate, (ii) an optimum application rate of low grade South African Rock Phosphate and time required for efficient vermicomposting of cow dung-waste paper mixtures, and (iii) to determine if the phosphorus in RP is responsible for improved biodegradation during the vermicomposting of cow dung-waste paper mixtures. Results of this study revealed that bioconversion of cow dung waste paper mixtures enriched with RP was highly dependent on E. fetida stocking density and time. The stocking density of 12.5 g-worms kg-1 feedstock of the mixtures resulted in highest earthworm growth rate and humification of the waste mixture as reflected by a C: N ratio of < 12, polymerization index (PI) or humic acid/fulvic acid ratio of > 1.9, and a humification index of >13 for the cow dung waste paper mixtures. A germination test carried out also revealed that the resultant vermicompost had no inhibitory effect on the germination of tomato, carrot, and radish. Extractable P increased with stocking density up to 22.5 g-worm kg-1 feedstock, suggesting that for maximum P release from RP enriched wastes, a high stocking density should be considered. Informed by an earlier study which demonstrated that RP improved vermidegration, a follow up study was done to determine the optimum amount of rock phosphate necessary for efficient vermidegradation of cow dung waste paper mixtures while ensuring a phosphorus rich vermicompost. The results showed that addition of RP at rates ≤ 1% P as RP efficiently enhanced the bioconversion of cow dung waste paper mixtures as reflected by low C: N ratio, high polymerization index (PI), HI and HR used as maturity indicators for matured compost. Final vermicompost products obtained at minimum amounts of RP application rates resulted highly humified vermicompost with finer morphological structure, with no inhibitory effect on the germination of tomato, carrot, and radish similar to the ones obtained at higher RP rates. The findings suggest that 1%P as RP application rate is optimum for efficient vermidegradation of cow dung waste paper mixtures. Since P or Ca happen to be the most prevalent elements in most rock phosphate used for compost enrichment, a study was carried out to determine if P or Ca in RP is predominantly responsible for the improved biodegradation of cow-dung waste paper mixture observed during vermicomposting. Phosphorus sources in form of triple superphosphate (TSP), phosphoric acid (PHA) and Ca in form of calcium chloride (CaCl2) salt were compared with rock phosphate. The results from the study indicated that TSP, a water soluble P source, resulted in greater and faster degradation of the waste mixtures than RP while the Ca source had the least effect. With TSP incorporation the compost maturity C: N ratio of 12 was reached within 28 days while RP, PHA and CaCl2 needed 42, 56 and more than 56 days, respectively. The results indicated that P was largely responsible for the enhanced bioconversion of the waste mixtures. This appeared linked to the effect of P to stimulate microbial growth as reflected by higher microbial biomass carbon levels where water soluble P sources were applied. The C: N ratios of the final vermicomposts at day 56 were 10, 11.5, 13, 14, and 23 for TSP, RP,PHA, Control (No P added) and CaCl2 treatments, respectively. Although TSP gave superior superior performance, RP may still be the preferred additive in the vermicomposting of cow dung waste paper mixtures as it is cheaper and produces mature compost in a shorter period of 8 weeks. Generally, the results of this study have shown that the vemidegradation of cow dung waste paper mixtures can be optimized through adoption of an E. fetida stocking density of 12.5g- worm kg-1 and an RP incorporation rate of 1% P as RP. However, higher rates of RPincorporation may be adopted where final vermicomposts with higher P fertilizer value are desired. Phosphorus appears to be the RP constituent responsible for its ability to enhance the vermidegradation of cow dung waste paper mixtures. Future studies should explore the effectiveness of other P-bearing minerals for their effectiveness in enhancing vemidegradation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Perceived academic support of student nurses at a public nursing college in the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Sineke, Nqatyiswa
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11917 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016158
- Description: Academic support is critical in promoting success among student nurses. Support for student learning is a key element in optimizing student learning experiences, in any learning environment, and its importance has been widely discussed. Student academic support is closely related to motivation for learning, and helping students achieve their learning goals and objectives. Student nurses continue to struggle during their training, to the point of failing a year or being excluded from the course, in spite of the academic support provided through classroom facilitation, and remedial teaching provided by academic staff. They frequently complain that the course is difficult, the workload is heavy, and they are unable to integrate theory with practice. As a result they are too stressed, throughout their training. The purpose of this study is to explore and describe the perceptions of student nurses about the academic support provided to them at a public nursing college in the Eastern Cape Province. This study was guided by the Caring Curriculum Model, based on Watson‟s Theory of Caring. The core of this theory is the implementation of ten carative factors to promote health and equilibrium. Caring was endorsed as a core value in nursing education and practice, by the National League of Nursing and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, while the centrality of a caring-healing relationship was recognized as a basis for all health professional education by the Pew Health Professions Commission. A quantitative approach, using a descriptive and explanatory design, was used to determine the perceptions of student nurses on the academic support they received from the public nursing college. Participants were selected by a simple random sampling method. A total of 189 student nurses, who registered for the 4-year diploma programme at the East London Campus of the Lilitha College of Nursing, participated in the study. Self-report data was collected by means of the Academic Support questionnaire, using a Likert scale which addressed both the performance and importance of academic support. Data were analysed using Statistical Analysis Systems version 9.3, using mean tables and graphical data analysis. The findings revealed high performance ratings for aspects relating to academic advising and teaching-learning process, indicating that there is satisfaction among students on these service attributes. Poor performance ratings were identified, relative to campus support services, indicating that student nurses were not happy with the availability and accessibility of library resources, and computer and internet services. Student nurses, at the college under study, were also not happy with aspects of service excellence relating to campus-based health care facilities, and personal student counselling services. The study identified a gap between the perceived performance and the importance of academic support at the nursing college, as the general performance was rated lower than the importance of academic support. The findings suggest the necessity for improved library facilities and resources, healthcare and counselling services and the establishment of student support programmes, to build the capacity of students and to enhance their chances of success.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Sineke, Nqatyiswa
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11917 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016158
- Description: Academic support is critical in promoting success among student nurses. Support for student learning is a key element in optimizing student learning experiences, in any learning environment, and its importance has been widely discussed. Student academic support is closely related to motivation for learning, and helping students achieve their learning goals and objectives. Student nurses continue to struggle during their training, to the point of failing a year or being excluded from the course, in spite of the academic support provided through classroom facilitation, and remedial teaching provided by academic staff. They frequently complain that the course is difficult, the workload is heavy, and they are unable to integrate theory with practice. As a result they are too stressed, throughout their training. The purpose of this study is to explore and describe the perceptions of student nurses about the academic support provided to them at a public nursing college in the Eastern Cape Province. This study was guided by the Caring Curriculum Model, based on Watson‟s Theory of Caring. The core of this theory is the implementation of ten carative factors to promote health and equilibrium. Caring was endorsed as a core value in nursing education and practice, by the National League of Nursing and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, while the centrality of a caring-healing relationship was recognized as a basis for all health professional education by the Pew Health Professions Commission. A quantitative approach, using a descriptive and explanatory design, was used to determine the perceptions of student nurses on the academic support they received from the public nursing college. Participants were selected by a simple random sampling method. A total of 189 student nurses, who registered for the 4-year diploma programme at the East London Campus of the Lilitha College of Nursing, participated in the study. Self-report data was collected by means of the Academic Support questionnaire, using a Likert scale which addressed both the performance and importance of academic support. Data were analysed using Statistical Analysis Systems version 9.3, using mean tables and graphical data analysis. The findings revealed high performance ratings for aspects relating to academic advising and teaching-learning process, indicating that there is satisfaction among students on these service attributes. Poor performance ratings were identified, relative to campus support services, indicating that student nurses were not happy with the availability and accessibility of library resources, and computer and internet services. Student nurses, at the college under study, were also not happy with aspects of service excellence relating to campus-based health care facilities, and personal student counselling services. The study identified a gap between the perceived performance and the importance of academic support at the nursing college, as the general performance was rated lower than the importance of academic support. The findings suggest the necessity for improved library facilities and resources, healthcare and counselling services and the establishment of student support programmes, to build the capacity of students and to enhance their chances of success.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014