An analysis of employee morale and leadership styles at Benteler automotive Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: De Vos, Desmond
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Employee morale , Employee motivation , Leadership -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69553 , vital:77712
- Description: Benteler Automotive in the Eastern Cape has experienced challenges over the past five years due to a high rate of staff turnover at the leadership and management levels. As a result, the morale of the employees in the organisation was affected, resulting in decreased levels of job satisfaction, and productivity, high rates of absenteeism, and staff turnover. Hence, this study was conducted to assess employee morale and leadership styles and examine the impact of motivation, leadership styles, and human resource strategies on staff morale, with the intention of proposing managerial interventions to enhance employee morale within the organisation. The study was conducted within a positivist paradigm, and a quantitative research approach was used to investigate the phenomenon. Data were collected from a sample of 300 employees using a closed-ended questionnaire survey, and a response rate of 93% was achieved. The Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) Version 21 was used for analysing and reporting on data in line with the research objectives of the study. The analysed data were reported under descriptive and inferential statistical headings, where frequency of the Likert scale responses, measures of central tendencies, Pearson’s correlations, regression analysis, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were reported. The results of the study indicates that motivation, leadership styles and human resource strategies have a significantly positive influence on employee morale. On the other hand, the results also indicate, in general, that respondents were indifferent to most of the statements pertaining to leadership styles and human resource strategies. The study recommends that management consider implementing fundamental theoretical human resource strategies to enhance employee morale. These strategies include fostering human relations, providing continuous training opportunities to enhance employee knowledge, promoting new skills development, boosting self-confidence, and addressing concerns about job stability. The results of the study have provided practical and conceptual managerial and academic benefits within the field of management and leadership. A future study on the evaluation of the impact of leadership styles and cultural elements on employee morale is an essential element to consider, as it was not covered in this study. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: De Vos, Desmond
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Employee morale , Employee motivation , Leadership -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69553 , vital:77712
- Description: Benteler Automotive in the Eastern Cape has experienced challenges over the past five years due to a high rate of staff turnover at the leadership and management levels. As a result, the morale of the employees in the organisation was affected, resulting in decreased levels of job satisfaction, and productivity, high rates of absenteeism, and staff turnover. Hence, this study was conducted to assess employee morale and leadership styles and examine the impact of motivation, leadership styles, and human resource strategies on staff morale, with the intention of proposing managerial interventions to enhance employee morale within the organisation. The study was conducted within a positivist paradigm, and a quantitative research approach was used to investigate the phenomenon. Data were collected from a sample of 300 employees using a closed-ended questionnaire survey, and a response rate of 93% was achieved. The Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) Version 21 was used for analysing and reporting on data in line with the research objectives of the study. The analysed data were reported under descriptive and inferential statistical headings, where frequency of the Likert scale responses, measures of central tendencies, Pearson’s correlations, regression analysis, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were reported. The results of the study indicates that motivation, leadership styles and human resource strategies have a significantly positive influence on employee morale. On the other hand, the results also indicate, in general, that respondents were indifferent to most of the statements pertaining to leadership styles and human resource strategies. The study recommends that management consider implementing fundamental theoretical human resource strategies to enhance employee morale. These strategies include fostering human relations, providing continuous training opportunities to enhance employee knowledge, promoting new skills development, boosting self-confidence, and addressing concerns about job stability. The results of the study have provided practical and conceptual managerial and academic benefits within the field of management and leadership. A future study on the evaluation of the impact of leadership styles and cultural elements on employee morale is an essential element to consider, as it was not covered in this study. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Assessing perceptions regarding sustainable growth of taverns in the Gqeberha liquor industry
- Authors: Coutsourides, Peter Dimitri
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Taverns (Inns) -- Port Elizabeth- Eastern Cape -- South Africa , Liquor industry -- Port Elizabeth -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- Port Elizabeth -- Eastern Cape -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69542 , vital:77710
- Description: This study investigates the sustainable growth of taverns within the informal liquor industry in Gqeberha, South Africa. The informal sector is critical for economic development, employing 60% of the world's population and nearly 30% of South Africa's workforce. This study focuses on taverns, a prevalent form of small, medium, and micro-enterprises in South African townships. Despite their economic significance, these taverns face numerous challenges, including limited access to finance, inadequate infrastructure, regulatory hurdles, and competition from larger formal enterprises. The research explores the historical context of the liquor industry in South Africa, highlighting the legacy of racial inequality and the evolution of regulatory frameworks aimed at balancing industry growth and social equity. In addition, the literature covered topics relating to SMMEs and sustainable growth. The study employs a case study strategy and a qualitative methodology where 12 tavern owners in Gqeberha were interviewed using an interview schedule. The thematic data analysis revealed five main challenges that hinder taverns' sustainable growth, namely finance, government interventions and facilities, competition, the COVID-19 Pandemic and crime. In addition, three measures or themes of sustainable growth were identified for these enterprises, such as economic, social and environmental measures for sustainable growth. Finally, based on the findings, a major contribution of this study is the framework of sustainable growth enablers that were presented to SMMEs, including taverns. This study contributes to the understanding of SMMEs in the informal sector and offers practical recommendations for enhancing the sustainable growth of taverns. By addressing the identified challenges and leveraging the proposed enablers, policymakers and stakeholders can create a more supportive environment for these enterprises, ultimately contributing to broader economic development and poverty reduction in South Africa. The insights gained from this study are intended to inform future policies and support mechanisms that can help these enterprises thrive despite their myriad challenges. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Coutsourides, Peter Dimitri
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Taverns (Inns) -- Port Elizabeth- Eastern Cape -- South Africa , Liquor industry -- Port Elizabeth -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- Port Elizabeth -- Eastern Cape -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69542 , vital:77710
- Description: This study investigates the sustainable growth of taverns within the informal liquor industry in Gqeberha, South Africa. The informal sector is critical for economic development, employing 60% of the world's population and nearly 30% of South Africa's workforce. This study focuses on taverns, a prevalent form of small, medium, and micro-enterprises in South African townships. Despite their economic significance, these taverns face numerous challenges, including limited access to finance, inadequate infrastructure, regulatory hurdles, and competition from larger formal enterprises. The research explores the historical context of the liquor industry in South Africa, highlighting the legacy of racial inequality and the evolution of regulatory frameworks aimed at balancing industry growth and social equity. In addition, the literature covered topics relating to SMMEs and sustainable growth. The study employs a case study strategy and a qualitative methodology where 12 tavern owners in Gqeberha were interviewed using an interview schedule. The thematic data analysis revealed five main challenges that hinder taverns' sustainable growth, namely finance, government interventions and facilities, competition, the COVID-19 Pandemic and crime. In addition, three measures or themes of sustainable growth were identified for these enterprises, such as economic, social and environmental measures for sustainable growth. Finally, based on the findings, a major contribution of this study is the framework of sustainable growth enablers that were presented to SMMEs, including taverns. This study contributes to the understanding of SMMEs in the informal sector and offers practical recommendations for enhancing the sustainable growth of taverns. By addressing the identified challenges and leveraging the proposed enablers, policymakers and stakeholders can create a more supportive environment for these enterprises, ultimately contributing to broader economic development and poverty reduction in South Africa. The insights gained from this study are intended to inform future policies and support mechanisms that can help these enterprises thrive despite their myriad challenges. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Associations between patterns of wild ungulate patch use, soil carbon and albedo in montane grasslands
- Authors: Mc Gregor, Steven
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Grassland ecology , Global environmental change , Climatic changes
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69382 , vital:77250
- Description: Grassy ecosystems are essential for human survival, providing key services including food production, water provisioning and moderating climate. Yet, grassy ecosystems remain undervalued due to misconceptions that they are remnants of degraded states of forest – a view that continues to influence climate change policies. This thesis explores the links between wild, free-roaming ungulate grazers and climate drivers, including carbon storage and surface albedo (i.e., reflectance of solar radiation), through their impacts on vegetation and soils. Using black wildebeest (Connochaetes gnou) as a model wild species, I compared their grazing patterns in an Afromontane grassland in the eastern Karoo, South Africa, to those of short-duration cattle grazing systems in similar nearby grasslands (Chapter 2). While short-duration grazing aims to mimic spatiotemporal wild ungulate grazing patterns to supposedly enhance ecosystem functioning and soil carbon stocks, I found that wildebeest had ~50% shorter grazing durations and much shorter rest intervals (1-5 days versus 60-365 days), revealing key differences in grazing patterns that may affect vegetation and climate feedbacks. Next, I examined spatial variations in soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks between grass growth forms that differ in grazing tolerance (Chapter 3). Red grass (Themeda triandra) tussock patches, sensitive to frequent grazing, had higher SOC to a soil depth of 20 cm (61.45 ± 1.59 Mg C·ha-1)than intensively grazed, prostrate-growing Cynodon dactylon grazing lawns (55.43 ± 3.40Mg C·ha-1), likely due to greater shading and soil moisture beneath tussocks which drives microbial decomposition. Seasonal albedo variations were then assessed across distinct grassland patch types among seasons to determine whether albedo varies seasonally at fine patch-scales between grass patches, between shrub and grass patches, and with grazing (Chapter 4). Albedo was lower during the growing season compared to dormancy, and was consistently lower in dwarf shrub (Pentzia incana) encroached patches compared to grass patches. No albedo differences between grazed and less-grazed tussock grass patches of the same species were found, although intensively grazed grazing lawns had consistently higher albedo than most patch types. Finally, I evaluated trade-offs between plant carbon, albedo, and their impacts on radiative forcing (i.e., atmospheric warming/cooling) resulting from patch type changes commonly found in grassy ecosystems (Chapter 5). The loss of perennial grass cover resulted in the highest net positive (warming) effect, mostly due to reduced root biomass. Additionally, shrub encroachment into all patches lowered albedo, but led to negative (cooling) effects from shrub encroachment into bare ground patches due to biomass gains. This thesis challenges current views of grassy landscapes and short-duration grazing systems, emphasizing the need to rethink climate change mitigation strategies to prioritize maintaining heterogeneity, while enhancing carbon sequestration and albedo in grassy ecosystems. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Mc Gregor, Steven
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Grassland ecology , Global environmental change , Climatic changes
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69382 , vital:77250
- Description: Grassy ecosystems are essential for human survival, providing key services including food production, water provisioning and moderating climate. Yet, grassy ecosystems remain undervalued due to misconceptions that they are remnants of degraded states of forest – a view that continues to influence climate change policies. This thesis explores the links between wild, free-roaming ungulate grazers and climate drivers, including carbon storage and surface albedo (i.e., reflectance of solar radiation), through their impacts on vegetation and soils. Using black wildebeest (Connochaetes gnou) as a model wild species, I compared their grazing patterns in an Afromontane grassland in the eastern Karoo, South Africa, to those of short-duration cattle grazing systems in similar nearby grasslands (Chapter 2). While short-duration grazing aims to mimic spatiotemporal wild ungulate grazing patterns to supposedly enhance ecosystem functioning and soil carbon stocks, I found that wildebeest had ~50% shorter grazing durations and much shorter rest intervals (1-5 days versus 60-365 days), revealing key differences in grazing patterns that may affect vegetation and climate feedbacks. Next, I examined spatial variations in soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks between grass growth forms that differ in grazing tolerance (Chapter 3). Red grass (Themeda triandra) tussock patches, sensitive to frequent grazing, had higher SOC to a soil depth of 20 cm (61.45 ± 1.59 Mg C·ha-1)than intensively grazed, prostrate-growing Cynodon dactylon grazing lawns (55.43 ± 3.40Mg C·ha-1), likely due to greater shading and soil moisture beneath tussocks which drives microbial decomposition. Seasonal albedo variations were then assessed across distinct grassland patch types among seasons to determine whether albedo varies seasonally at fine patch-scales between grass patches, between shrub and grass patches, and with grazing (Chapter 4). Albedo was lower during the growing season compared to dormancy, and was consistently lower in dwarf shrub (Pentzia incana) encroached patches compared to grass patches. No albedo differences between grazed and less-grazed tussock grass patches of the same species were found, although intensively grazed grazing lawns had consistently higher albedo than most patch types. Finally, I evaluated trade-offs between plant carbon, albedo, and their impacts on radiative forcing (i.e., atmospheric warming/cooling) resulting from patch type changes commonly found in grassy ecosystems (Chapter 5). The loss of perennial grass cover resulted in the highest net positive (warming) effect, mostly due to reduced root biomass. Additionally, shrub encroachment into all patches lowered albedo, but led to negative (cooling) effects from shrub encroachment into bare ground patches due to biomass gains. This thesis challenges current views of grassy landscapes and short-duration grazing systems, emphasizing the need to rethink climate change mitigation strategies to prioritize maintaining heterogeneity, while enhancing carbon sequestration and albedo in grassy ecosystems. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Causative factors for poor contractor performance in schools infrastructure projects
- Authors: Baba, Vuyiseka
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Project management , Project management -- Evaluation , School facilities -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68703 , vital:77083
- Description: The public sector infrastructure departments in South Africa rely on construction companies as the major stakeholders in the implementation and maintenance of infrastructure facilities including schools. The Limpopo Province is faced with a serious challenge of underperforming contractors. This in turn affects the Provincial Government’s effective delivery of the much-needed quality infrastructure and facilities. A significant number of schools in the province are faced with infrastructure challenges including sanitation facilities, deteriorating school buildings, storm damage, inadequate infrastructure for special schools, water provision, and general maintenance. This study sought to understand the challenges faced by contractors and further explored whether the effective application of project management methodologies can have a positive impact on improving the current underperformance. Due to the nature of the study, a qualitative research method was employed to collect data. An interpretivist paradigm was adopted as the research philosophy, as it allowed for a flexible and in-depth investigation approach. The study utilized an exploratory research design. The targeted population for the study was carefully selected to obtain relevant and reliable data, and a purposive sampling technique was chosen. Semi-structured interviews were conducted as the primary data collection method, enabling the collection of first-hand information. To ensure accuracy and prevent loss of information, the research process involved recording and transcribing the interviews, using an inductive analysis approach. Eighteen out of the twenty targeted participants were successfully interviewed, resulting in a response rate of 90%. The findings of the study revealed that poor planning, inadequate financial management, inexperienced staff, interference from stakeholders, and a misunderstanding of project scope were among the many factors contributing to poor contractor performance. Furthermore, contractors, particularly Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), faced serious challenges during project implementation, including a lack of proper training, budget constraints, and delayed payments from clients. Based on the study's findings, it is recommended that contractors invest in planning and cost management software, including project management methodologies such as Agile, Waterfall, and MS Project. Further, contractors are encouraged to employ adequately skilled and qualified site personnel. Clients should also consider supporting underperforming contractors by pairing them with proven-performing ones to encourage mentorship and other forms of capacity building. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Building and Human Settlements Management, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Baba, Vuyiseka
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Project management , Project management -- Evaluation , School facilities -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68703 , vital:77083
- Description: The public sector infrastructure departments in South Africa rely on construction companies as the major stakeholders in the implementation and maintenance of infrastructure facilities including schools. The Limpopo Province is faced with a serious challenge of underperforming contractors. This in turn affects the Provincial Government’s effective delivery of the much-needed quality infrastructure and facilities. A significant number of schools in the province are faced with infrastructure challenges including sanitation facilities, deteriorating school buildings, storm damage, inadequate infrastructure for special schools, water provision, and general maintenance. This study sought to understand the challenges faced by contractors and further explored whether the effective application of project management methodologies can have a positive impact on improving the current underperformance. Due to the nature of the study, a qualitative research method was employed to collect data. An interpretivist paradigm was adopted as the research philosophy, as it allowed for a flexible and in-depth investigation approach. The study utilized an exploratory research design. The targeted population for the study was carefully selected to obtain relevant and reliable data, and a purposive sampling technique was chosen. Semi-structured interviews were conducted as the primary data collection method, enabling the collection of first-hand information. To ensure accuracy and prevent loss of information, the research process involved recording and transcribing the interviews, using an inductive analysis approach. Eighteen out of the twenty targeted participants were successfully interviewed, resulting in a response rate of 90%. The findings of the study revealed that poor planning, inadequate financial management, inexperienced staff, interference from stakeholders, and a misunderstanding of project scope were among the many factors contributing to poor contractor performance. Furthermore, contractors, particularly Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), faced serious challenges during project implementation, including a lack of proper training, budget constraints, and delayed payments from clients. Based on the study's findings, it is recommended that contractors invest in planning and cost management software, including project management methodologies such as Agile, Waterfall, and MS Project. Further, contractors are encouraged to employ adequately skilled and qualified site personnel. Clients should also consider supporting underperforming contractors by pairing them with proven-performing ones to encourage mentorship and other forms of capacity building. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Building and Human Settlements Management, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Characterization of the molecular mechanism(s) of cannabinoid-induced paraptosis in breast cancer cells
- Authors: de la Harpe, Amy
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Cannabinoids , Cannabinoids -- Therapeutic use , Cancer cells
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68818 , vital:77120
- Description: Natural products have been extensively studied for their anticancer potential, and several widely used anticancer drugs have natural origins. Many studies have demonstrated that natural compounds can induce paraptosis in various tumour cell lines. Paraptosis is a caspase-independent cell death mechanism characterised by cytoplasmic vacuolation arising from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the mitochondria. The molecular mechanism of paraptosis is unclear; however, the literature indicates that dysregulation of calcium signalling plays an important role in paraptosis induction, particularly calcium-mediated signalling between the ER and mitochondria. This study aimed to identify and characterise the mechanism of cell death induced by a phytocannabinoid ratio which induced significant cytoplasmic vacuolation in the MCF7 breast cancer cell line. Several techniques were employed to address the aim of the study. The crystal violet assay was used to detect changes in viability. Several pathway inhibitors, as well as fluorescent staining and analysis using high-content screening (HCS), were used to measure the induction of various cell death mechanisms. Morphological changes were investigated using light and transmission electron microscopy. The phytocannabinoid ratio induced significant cell death and cytoplasmic vacuolation in MCF7 cells; however, the same trend was not observed in the MCF10A non-tumourigenic breast cell line. No cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, necrosis, autophagy, or ferroptosis induction was detected in MCF7 cells, suggesting that an alternative mechanism of cell death was induced. Vacuolation and cell death induced by the phytocannabinoid ratio were inhibited by cycloheximide, suggesting a dependence on protein synthesis, which is characteristic of paraptosis induction. The mechanism of paraptosis induction by the phytocannabinoid ratio was investigated, and it was found that treatment 1) induced ER dilation and mitochondrial swelling; 2) induced significant ER stress, mitochondrial calcium overload, and mitochondrial dysfunction which appeared to be mediated by the voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC); and 3) significantly impaired all mitochondrial metabolic pathways. Overall, the data demonstrated that paraptosis induced by the cannabinoid ratio is mediated by calcium flux from the ER to the mitochondria. This highlighted a novel mechanism of phytocannabinoid-induced cell death and emphasised the anti-cancer potential of the use of phytocannabinoid ratios as opposed to individual phytocannabinoids, expanding their potential for use as anticancer agents. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: de la Harpe, Amy
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Cannabinoids , Cannabinoids -- Therapeutic use , Cancer cells
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68818 , vital:77120
- Description: Natural products have been extensively studied for their anticancer potential, and several widely used anticancer drugs have natural origins. Many studies have demonstrated that natural compounds can induce paraptosis in various tumour cell lines. Paraptosis is a caspase-independent cell death mechanism characterised by cytoplasmic vacuolation arising from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the mitochondria. The molecular mechanism of paraptosis is unclear; however, the literature indicates that dysregulation of calcium signalling plays an important role in paraptosis induction, particularly calcium-mediated signalling between the ER and mitochondria. This study aimed to identify and characterise the mechanism of cell death induced by a phytocannabinoid ratio which induced significant cytoplasmic vacuolation in the MCF7 breast cancer cell line. Several techniques were employed to address the aim of the study. The crystal violet assay was used to detect changes in viability. Several pathway inhibitors, as well as fluorescent staining and analysis using high-content screening (HCS), were used to measure the induction of various cell death mechanisms. Morphological changes were investigated using light and transmission electron microscopy. The phytocannabinoid ratio induced significant cell death and cytoplasmic vacuolation in MCF7 cells; however, the same trend was not observed in the MCF10A non-tumourigenic breast cell line. No cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, necrosis, autophagy, or ferroptosis induction was detected in MCF7 cells, suggesting that an alternative mechanism of cell death was induced. Vacuolation and cell death induced by the phytocannabinoid ratio were inhibited by cycloheximide, suggesting a dependence on protein synthesis, which is characteristic of paraptosis induction. The mechanism of paraptosis induction by the phytocannabinoid ratio was investigated, and it was found that treatment 1) induced ER dilation and mitochondrial swelling; 2) induced significant ER stress, mitochondrial calcium overload, and mitochondrial dysfunction which appeared to be mediated by the voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC); and 3) significantly impaired all mitochondrial metabolic pathways. Overall, the data demonstrated that paraptosis induced by the cannabinoid ratio is mediated by calcium flux from the ER to the mitochondria. This highlighted a novel mechanism of phytocannabinoid-induced cell death and emphasised the anti-cancer potential of the use of phytocannabinoid ratios as opposed to individual phytocannabinoids, expanding their potential for use as anticancer agents. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Co-generated learnings from hopes-an NRF grant funded university engagement project
- Authors: Quvile, Xola Bulumko
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: National Research Foundation (South Africa) , Research grants -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68366 , vital:76990
- Description: The study had sought to understand the systemic and individual factors that facilitated or inhibited the NRF grant-funded HOPES Project. HOPES collaborated with the Centre for the Community School in the Faculty of Education, and various communities of practice (COPs) in existing school communities in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The project applied a critical participatory action research work to develop a framework for school improvement and in the process contribute to making schools beacons of hope. This research provides insights into how an NRF community engagement grant project team (HOPES) navigated external and internal factors such as COVID-19, rules regulating the grant, and multiple realities of the stakeholders at play. The study was qualitative and used the critical participatory action research design. The study purposively and conveniently sampled seven HOPES Project team members to collect data via focus groups and individual interviews and collected secondary data from NRF HOPES annual project reports. The study findings improved the participants' understanding of their journey, and the co-generated knowledge shed light on how NFR and community engagement grant funders could promote enabling conditions towards achieving individual scholars and collective project outcomes. The study findings provide learnings for the Faculty of Education and the Nelson Mandela University on how extrinsic and intrinsic enablers and barriers can be addressed to optimise a project of this nature. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, School of Postgraduate Education, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Quvile, Xola Bulumko
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: National Research Foundation (South Africa) , Research grants -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68366 , vital:76990
- Description: The study had sought to understand the systemic and individual factors that facilitated or inhibited the NRF grant-funded HOPES Project. HOPES collaborated with the Centre for the Community School in the Faculty of Education, and various communities of practice (COPs) in existing school communities in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The project applied a critical participatory action research work to develop a framework for school improvement and in the process contribute to making schools beacons of hope. This research provides insights into how an NRF community engagement grant project team (HOPES) navigated external and internal factors such as COVID-19, rules regulating the grant, and multiple realities of the stakeholders at play. The study was qualitative and used the critical participatory action research design. The study purposively and conveniently sampled seven HOPES Project team members to collect data via focus groups and individual interviews and collected secondary data from NRF HOPES annual project reports. The study findings improved the participants' understanding of their journey, and the co-generated knowledge shed light on how NFR and community engagement grant funders could promote enabling conditions towards achieving individual scholars and collective project outcomes. The study findings provide learnings for the Faculty of Education and the Nelson Mandela University on how extrinsic and intrinsic enablers and barriers can be addressed to optimise a project of this nature. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, School of Postgraduate Education, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Collaborative conservation governance in multifunctional landscapes: a contextual analysis of two South African biosphere reserves in the Boland
- Authors: Klaver, Michael
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Unesco -- Programme on Man and the Biosphere , Nature conservation -- South Africa , Biosphere
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68924 , vital:77164
- Description: The Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB) has been earmarked as one of the most promising ways of tackling the grand challenges of our time and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Furthermore, it may have the potential to make positive contributions to one of the most troubling conservation challenges of our time – winning spaces for large carnivores in human-dominated landscapes. This study aims to assess the interpretation and implementation of MAB in two South African Biosphere Reserves (BRs) and explore how BRs as landscape level collaborative initiatives can support Cape leopard conservation in the Boland region of the Western Cape, South Africa. This study is informed by two objectives. First, to understand how the chosen governance strategy and structure of two South African BRs have helped to achieve a context appropriate interpretation and actioning of MAB in the landscape. Second, to understand how landscape-level collaborative conservation initiatives support leopard conservation across a multifunctional landscape. This study takes on a mixed methods approach in which qualitative data takes priority and quantitative data is used for support in an embedded multiple-case study design. The sampling techniques used include purposive sampling of strategically targeted participants, i.e. those governing BRs and those leading the collaborative initiative and snowballing thereon. Data collection included a combination of semi-structure interviews (n=20) (the principal collection method), a review of archival, policy and other documents (n=15), and supported by a mixed methods survey questionnaire (n=5). Data were analysed through thematic and content analysis. Findings suggest that organisations working at a landscape-level utilise forms of adaptive co-management and/or governance as a means to being both adaptive and collaborative. Important themes which emerge include cross-sectoral approaches, networks, leadership and trust for building partnerships, shared visions and ‘filling gaps’ left by, or collaborating with the state to fulfil mutually beneficial objectives. This research provides empirical studies on MAB, important for sharing knowledge across the World Network of BRs, meeting the need for further research on collaborative initiatives in social-ecological systems and conservation programmes for large free-roaming carnivores in multifunctional landscapes. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Science & Management, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Klaver, Michael
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Unesco -- Programme on Man and the Biosphere , Nature conservation -- South Africa , Biosphere
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68924 , vital:77164
- Description: The Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB) has been earmarked as one of the most promising ways of tackling the grand challenges of our time and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Furthermore, it may have the potential to make positive contributions to one of the most troubling conservation challenges of our time – winning spaces for large carnivores in human-dominated landscapes. This study aims to assess the interpretation and implementation of MAB in two South African Biosphere Reserves (BRs) and explore how BRs as landscape level collaborative initiatives can support Cape leopard conservation in the Boland region of the Western Cape, South Africa. This study is informed by two objectives. First, to understand how the chosen governance strategy and structure of two South African BRs have helped to achieve a context appropriate interpretation and actioning of MAB in the landscape. Second, to understand how landscape-level collaborative conservation initiatives support leopard conservation across a multifunctional landscape. This study takes on a mixed methods approach in which qualitative data takes priority and quantitative data is used for support in an embedded multiple-case study design. The sampling techniques used include purposive sampling of strategically targeted participants, i.e. those governing BRs and those leading the collaborative initiative and snowballing thereon. Data collection included a combination of semi-structure interviews (n=20) (the principal collection method), a review of archival, policy and other documents (n=15), and supported by a mixed methods survey questionnaire (n=5). Data were analysed through thematic and content analysis. Findings suggest that organisations working at a landscape-level utilise forms of adaptive co-management and/or governance as a means to being both adaptive and collaborative. Important themes which emerge include cross-sectoral approaches, networks, leadership and trust for building partnerships, shared visions and ‘filling gaps’ left by, or collaborating with the state to fulfil mutually beneficial objectives. This research provides empirical studies on MAB, important for sharing knowledge across the World Network of BRs, meeting the need for further research on collaborative initiatives in social-ecological systems and conservation programmes for large free-roaming carnivores in multifunctional landscapes. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Science & Management, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Collaborative conservation governance in multifunctional landscapes: a contextual analysis of two South African Biosphere Reserves in the Boland
- Authors: Klaver, Michael
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Unesco. -- Programme on Man and the Biosphere , Nature conservation -- South Africa , Social ecology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68918 , vital:77165
- Description: The Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB) has been earmarked as one of the most promising ways of tackling the grand challenges of our time and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Furthermore, it may have the potential to make positive contributions to one of the most troubling conservation challenges of our time – winning spaces for large carnivores in human-dominated landscapes. This study aims to assess the interpretation and implementation of MAB in two South African Biosphere Reserves (BRs) and explore how BRs as landscape level collaborative initiatives can support Cape leopard conservation in the Boland region of the Western Cape, South Africa. This study is informed by two objectives. First, to understand how the chosen governance strategy and structure of two South African BRs have helped to achieve a context appropriate interpretation and actioning of MAB in the landscape. Second, to understand how landscape-level collaborative conservation initiatives support leopard conservation across a multifunctional landscape. This study takes on a mixed methods approach in which qualitative data takes priority and quantitative data is used for support in an embedded multiple-case study design. The sampling techniques used include purposive sampling of strategically targeted participants, i.e. those governing BRs and those leading the collaborative initiative and snowballing thereon. Data collection included a combination of semi-structure interviews (n=20) (the principal collection method), a review of archival, policy and other documents (n=15), and supported by a mixed methods survey questionnaire (n=5). Data were analysed through thematic and content analysis. Findings suggest that organisations working at a landscape-level utilise forms of adaptive co-management and/or governance as a means to being both adaptive and collaborative. Important themes which emerge include cross-sectoral approaches, networks, leadership and trust for building partnerships, shared visions and ‘filling gaps’ left by, or collaborating with the state to fulfil mutually beneficial objectives. This research provides empirical studies on MAB, important for sharing knowledge across the World Network of BRs, meeting the need for further research on collaborative initiatives in social-ecological systems and conservation programmes for large free-roaming carnivores in multifunctional landscapes. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Klaver, Michael
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Unesco. -- Programme on Man and the Biosphere , Nature conservation -- South Africa , Social ecology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68918 , vital:77165
- Description: The Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB) has been earmarked as one of the most promising ways of tackling the grand challenges of our time and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Furthermore, it may have the potential to make positive contributions to one of the most troubling conservation challenges of our time – winning spaces for large carnivores in human-dominated landscapes. This study aims to assess the interpretation and implementation of MAB in two South African Biosphere Reserves (BRs) and explore how BRs as landscape level collaborative initiatives can support Cape leopard conservation in the Boland region of the Western Cape, South Africa. This study is informed by two objectives. First, to understand how the chosen governance strategy and structure of two South African BRs have helped to achieve a context appropriate interpretation and actioning of MAB in the landscape. Second, to understand how landscape-level collaborative conservation initiatives support leopard conservation across a multifunctional landscape. This study takes on a mixed methods approach in which qualitative data takes priority and quantitative data is used for support in an embedded multiple-case study design. The sampling techniques used include purposive sampling of strategically targeted participants, i.e. those governing BRs and those leading the collaborative initiative and snowballing thereon. Data collection included a combination of semi-structure interviews (n=20) (the principal collection method), a review of archival, policy and other documents (n=15), and supported by a mixed methods survey questionnaire (n=5). Data were analysed through thematic and content analysis. Findings suggest that organisations working at a landscape-level utilise forms of adaptive co-management and/or governance as a means to being both adaptive and collaborative. Important themes which emerge include cross-sectoral approaches, networks, leadership and trust for building partnerships, shared visions and ‘filling gaps’ left by, or collaborating with the state to fulfil mutually beneficial objectives. This research provides empirical studies on MAB, important for sharing knowledge across the World Network of BRs, meeting the need for further research on collaborative initiatives in social-ecological systems and conservation programmes for large free-roaming carnivores in multifunctional landscapes. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Comparative study of the effect of iloprost on neuroinflammatory changes in c8-b4 microglial cells and murine model of trypanosomiasis
- Authors: Jacobs, Ashleigh
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Neuroimmunology , DNA -- Methylation , Nervous system -- Degeneration
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68895 , vital:77160
- Description: Neurodegenerative conditions significantly impact well-being and quality of life in individuals with major symptoms including mood disorders, cognitive decline, and psychiatric disturbances, often resulting from neuroinflammation triggered by immune responses to bacterial or parasitic infections such as gram-negative bacteria or Human African Trypanosomiasis. Microglia play a crucial role in both neurotoxicity and cellular processes involved in restoring the neural health. Exploring the therapeutic potential of prostacyclin and its analogues in regulating microglia responses to inflammatory insult and treating Trypanosoma brucei (T.b) infection remains an unexplored area. The aim of this study was to assess the potential neuroprotective effects of Iloprost through comparative analysis of neuroinflammatory responses in both microglial cells exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and mouse brains infected with T.b brucei. In phase I of this study both resting and LPS treated C8-B4 microglial cells were exposed to varying concentrations of Iloprost. The effects of Iloprost on LPS-induced inflammation were analysed using immunofluorescence to detect microglial activation and differentiate between pro and anti-inflammatory phenotypes. Furthermore, pro and anti-inflammatory cytokine secretion was determined using an ELISA, in addition gene expression analysis was carried out using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Also, DNA methylation status of C8-B4 cells exposed to LPS challenge alone or in combination with various concentrations of Iloprost were determined using bisulfite sequencing technique followed by qPCR. In phase II of the study, a total of twenty-four Albino Swiss male mice (8-10 weeks old) were divided into four treatment groups with 6 mice in each group. All treatment groups except the non-infected control were inoculated with the T.b brucei parasite. One group received a single intraperitoneal injection of Diminazene aceturate (4 mg kg-1)while the remaining group received repeated intraperitoneal injections of Iloprost (200 μg kg-1). On day ten of the study, mouse brains were removed on ice using forceps. The hippocampal tissues were dissected out and processed for quantification of gene expression changes in pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Overall, the findings of this study indicate that LPS-induced pro-inflammatory cytokine, TNF-α and IL-1β, secretion and gene expression is down-regulated in C8-B4 microglial cells treated with Iloprost. Furthermore, there was a significant up-regulation in the expression of anti-inflammatory genes, particularly ARG-1, CD206, BDNF and CREB in response to Iloprost treatment following LPS-induced inflammation. This study is also the first to confirm M2 microglial polarization with Iloprost treatment in both resting and LPS treated cells. However, hypermethylation at CREB and BDNF promoter regions was observed 24 hours after Iloprost treatment. Additionally, Iloprost reversed hypomethylation at the BDNF promoter region that had been induced by LPS treatment. The rodent model also indicated a downregulation in the pro-inflammatory cytokine, IL-1β, expression and upregulation of BDNF transcription in T.b brucei infected mice treated with repeated doses of Iloprost. In conclusion, determining the immunomodulatory roles of Iloprost in both in vitro and in vivo models of neuroinflammation could assist in the development of alternative therapy for neurodegenerative disease. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Jacobs, Ashleigh
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Neuroimmunology , DNA -- Methylation , Nervous system -- Degeneration
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68895 , vital:77160
- Description: Neurodegenerative conditions significantly impact well-being and quality of life in individuals with major symptoms including mood disorders, cognitive decline, and psychiatric disturbances, often resulting from neuroinflammation triggered by immune responses to bacterial or parasitic infections such as gram-negative bacteria or Human African Trypanosomiasis. Microglia play a crucial role in both neurotoxicity and cellular processes involved in restoring the neural health. Exploring the therapeutic potential of prostacyclin and its analogues in regulating microglia responses to inflammatory insult and treating Trypanosoma brucei (T.b) infection remains an unexplored area. The aim of this study was to assess the potential neuroprotective effects of Iloprost through comparative analysis of neuroinflammatory responses in both microglial cells exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and mouse brains infected with T.b brucei. In phase I of this study both resting and LPS treated C8-B4 microglial cells were exposed to varying concentrations of Iloprost. The effects of Iloprost on LPS-induced inflammation were analysed using immunofluorescence to detect microglial activation and differentiate between pro and anti-inflammatory phenotypes. Furthermore, pro and anti-inflammatory cytokine secretion was determined using an ELISA, in addition gene expression analysis was carried out using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Also, DNA methylation status of C8-B4 cells exposed to LPS challenge alone or in combination with various concentrations of Iloprost were determined using bisulfite sequencing technique followed by qPCR. In phase II of the study, a total of twenty-four Albino Swiss male mice (8-10 weeks old) were divided into four treatment groups with 6 mice in each group. All treatment groups except the non-infected control were inoculated with the T.b brucei parasite. One group received a single intraperitoneal injection of Diminazene aceturate (4 mg kg-1)while the remaining group received repeated intraperitoneal injections of Iloprost (200 μg kg-1). On day ten of the study, mouse brains were removed on ice using forceps. The hippocampal tissues were dissected out and processed for quantification of gene expression changes in pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Overall, the findings of this study indicate that LPS-induced pro-inflammatory cytokine, TNF-α and IL-1β, secretion and gene expression is down-regulated in C8-B4 microglial cells treated with Iloprost. Furthermore, there was a significant up-regulation in the expression of anti-inflammatory genes, particularly ARG-1, CD206, BDNF and CREB in response to Iloprost treatment following LPS-induced inflammation. This study is also the first to confirm M2 microglial polarization with Iloprost treatment in both resting and LPS treated cells. However, hypermethylation at CREB and BDNF promoter regions was observed 24 hours after Iloprost treatment. Additionally, Iloprost reversed hypomethylation at the BDNF promoter region that had been induced by LPS treatment. The rodent model also indicated a downregulation in the pro-inflammatory cytokine, IL-1β, expression and upregulation of BDNF transcription in T.b brucei infected mice treated with repeated doses of Iloprost. In conclusion, determining the immunomodulatory roles of Iloprost in both in vitro and in vivo models of neuroinflammation could assist in the development of alternative therapy for neurodegenerative disease. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Construction material waste control success model for the construction industry
- Authors: Musah, Abdul Razak
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Materials management , Construction industry -- Management , Construction industry -- Environmental aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68796 , vital:77114
- Description: Economic sustainability and reconstruction in many economies rely heavily on the construction sector and remain strategic tools for governments and industries worldwide. Excessive construction costs and materials waste among some construction companies are rampant in the construction sector. Most of this waste is poorly managed, thus triggering significant project failure problems, leading to the project stakeholders losing the value of their investment. This concern advocate for effective control of construction material to avoid wastage. The primary objective of this study was to develop a Construction Waste Material Control (CWMC) model to be used by construction project professionals throughout the Project Management (PM) phases: initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, control and closure. Significant literature on construction materials waste, Project Management (PM) processes, and project performance regarding poor waste management and project failure was reviewed. This literature review was conducted to identify factors affecting Construction Waste Material Control (CWMC). These factors were identified and defined together with their respective contributions to the model. A quantitative survey instrument (questionnaire) was used to obtain information from construction sector professionals. A total of 213 questionnaire were received and administered for the study. Structural Equation Model (SEM) SEM was used to analyse the questionnaire data, and thereby assisting the research to clearly define latent constructs statistically significant to the (CWMC) model. The finding was that, the factors identified to have impact on CWMC are Project Initiation Phase Tools (PIPTs), Project Planning Phase Tools (PPPTs), project failure/success factors (PFFs), Project Execution Phase Tools (PEPTs), Project Monitoring and Control Phase Tools (PMCPTs), Construction waste material Control (CWMC) policy and Project Management (PM) competence. The supported hypotheses also authenticated these factors. Introducing the model into the construction sector provides another dimension to CWMC. By establishing the aforementioned factors, the model gives construction professionals precise CWMC predictive accuracy. As the model reliability test of 0.734 to 0.972 satisfied the theoretical threshold and goodness of fit of 0.912 of Normed fit index respectively. The model is the first of its kind and contributes significantly to the construction sector’s existing body of knowledge. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Built Environment and Civil Engineering, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Musah, Abdul Razak
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Materials management , Construction industry -- Management , Construction industry -- Environmental aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68796 , vital:77114
- Description: Economic sustainability and reconstruction in many economies rely heavily on the construction sector and remain strategic tools for governments and industries worldwide. Excessive construction costs and materials waste among some construction companies are rampant in the construction sector. Most of this waste is poorly managed, thus triggering significant project failure problems, leading to the project stakeholders losing the value of their investment. This concern advocate for effective control of construction material to avoid wastage. The primary objective of this study was to develop a Construction Waste Material Control (CWMC) model to be used by construction project professionals throughout the Project Management (PM) phases: initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, control and closure. Significant literature on construction materials waste, Project Management (PM) processes, and project performance regarding poor waste management and project failure was reviewed. This literature review was conducted to identify factors affecting Construction Waste Material Control (CWMC). These factors were identified and defined together with their respective contributions to the model. A quantitative survey instrument (questionnaire) was used to obtain information from construction sector professionals. A total of 213 questionnaire were received and administered for the study. Structural Equation Model (SEM) SEM was used to analyse the questionnaire data, and thereby assisting the research to clearly define latent constructs statistically significant to the (CWMC) model. The finding was that, the factors identified to have impact on CWMC are Project Initiation Phase Tools (PIPTs), Project Planning Phase Tools (PPPTs), project failure/success factors (PFFs), Project Execution Phase Tools (PEPTs), Project Monitoring and Control Phase Tools (PMCPTs), Construction waste material Control (CWMC) policy and Project Management (PM) competence. The supported hypotheses also authenticated these factors. Introducing the model into the construction sector provides another dimension to CWMC. By establishing the aforementioned factors, the model gives construction professionals precise CWMC predictive accuracy. As the model reliability test of 0.734 to 0.972 satisfied the theoretical threshold and goodness of fit of 0.912 of Normed fit index respectively. The model is the first of its kind and contributes significantly to the construction sector’s existing body of knowledge. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Built Environment and Civil Engineering, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Criteria for effective short-term rental business venture property selection in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Theunissen, Melanie
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Real estate investment -- Rental property -- South Africa , Property investment -- Real estate business -- South Africa , Small business -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69890 , vital:78143
- Description: Short-term rental (STR) accommodations thrive in the online sharing economy and are influenced by market trends and regulations and vary in location. Success hinges on careful planning, continuous management and fulfilling guest expectations. There is limited research on the types of properties that succeed in the STR business. Additionally, STR’s are regulated, competitive and entail financial planning which can offer both lucrative income potential and high expenses. This treatise is an effort to evaluate the criteria for property selection for STR’s as a business in Nelson Mandela Bay. The research approach for this study is positivistic. A literature review has been conducted to determine the existing status of STR studies relating to the business industry. The literature review allowed the formation of criteria which was tested with quantitative methods consisting of data collection, a questionnaire and an analysis of the statistics. This assessment clearly supported STR as a viable business venture. Based on the research study, criteria were created to help STR owners select the right property for STR. The four main considerations in STR accommodation business in this criteria framework included location, type and size of the property, features and amenities and safety and security. The research confirmed that in the STR market, these variables are proposed as key focal point for business owners to focus on and to positively affect the types of property that are purchased to grow the STR business. As a result, create favourable bottom line returns. In agreement with the literature that is reviewed and the outcomes of this treatise, by effectively addressing the criteria, the business owners of STR’s will create a criteria model that is helpful to purchase the most suitable property for a STR business. Certain key findings from the research found it to be true that you can improve property selection decision making through the identification of relevant criteria that can assist STR business investors and managers. It is proposed that the criteria is examined to provide further advancement to the STR industry. The recommendations include further improving the criteria by providing additional information about the STR business behaviours connected to each variable and increasing the scope of the study to more than just one sample from mainly the Eastern Cape in South Africa. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Theunissen, Melanie
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Real estate investment -- Rental property -- South Africa , Property investment -- Real estate business -- South Africa , Small business -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69890 , vital:78143
- Description: Short-term rental (STR) accommodations thrive in the online sharing economy and are influenced by market trends and regulations and vary in location. Success hinges on careful planning, continuous management and fulfilling guest expectations. There is limited research on the types of properties that succeed in the STR business. Additionally, STR’s are regulated, competitive and entail financial planning which can offer both lucrative income potential and high expenses. This treatise is an effort to evaluate the criteria for property selection for STR’s as a business in Nelson Mandela Bay. The research approach for this study is positivistic. A literature review has been conducted to determine the existing status of STR studies relating to the business industry. The literature review allowed the formation of criteria which was tested with quantitative methods consisting of data collection, a questionnaire and an analysis of the statistics. This assessment clearly supported STR as a viable business venture. Based on the research study, criteria were created to help STR owners select the right property for STR. The four main considerations in STR accommodation business in this criteria framework included location, type and size of the property, features and amenities and safety and security. The research confirmed that in the STR market, these variables are proposed as key focal point for business owners to focus on and to positively affect the types of property that are purchased to grow the STR business. As a result, create favourable bottom line returns. In agreement with the literature that is reviewed and the outcomes of this treatise, by effectively addressing the criteria, the business owners of STR’s will create a criteria model that is helpful to purchase the most suitable property for a STR business. Certain key findings from the research found it to be true that you can improve property selection decision making through the identification of relevant criteria that can assist STR business investors and managers. It is proposed that the criteria is examined to provide further advancement to the STR industry. The recommendations include further improving the criteria by providing additional information about the STR business behaviours connected to each variable and increasing the scope of the study to more than just one sample from mainly the Eastern Cape in South Africa. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Development of density-dependent and density-independent competition models to understand single tree growth responses in eucalyptus stands
- Authors: Kepe, Lulama Patrick
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Forests and forestry -- Mathematical models , Trees -- Growth -- Mathematical models , Eucalyptus grandis
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68906 , vital:77161
- Description: In commercial forest production, predicted yields based on mensuration recommendations are seldom realized, and minimal silvicultural standards based on results from trial blocks do not account for the relationship between initial planting density and final stocking. Growth models designed to investigate management options must employ competition indices to provide reliable predictions under extreme silviculture. The competition a tree experiences until the day of harvest is a strong driver for quality and volume of timber. Hence, this turns the regulation of competition into an integral part of silviculture. According to Little et al. (2003), it is known that, at some stage after canopy closure, individual trees in a stand will begin to compete for resources. To investigate competition amongst individual trees, a re-purposed Bayesian mixed effects model, similar in characteristics to a Sire model used for estimating breeding values, is proposed. In animal breeding models, the Sire Model allows for the inclusion of a numerator relationship matrix containing inbreeding coefficients. In a similar way, documented competition indices are included in the model in an attempt to estimate posterior probabilities of specifically selected individual trees being the strongest growers during different stages in the tree growth cycle. Estimated tree growth indices were determined and used to make probability statements in order to rank the individually selected trees based on the amount of growth observed. A tree growth index is a measurement of a tree’s average growth performance in relation to the average growth performance of all trees on the same plot. As different competition indices are introduced into the model, changes in the probabilities are observed and compared to what is visually observed on the plot, i.e. if the tree with the highest probability of being the strongest grower, is actually not necessarily the largest tree of the group of selected trees, but rather the tree that presented the largest amount of growth of the selected group of trees during that specific growth season. From a randomly selected plot, a group of neighboring trees were randomly selected. Four specifically selected target trees were then identified from this group of 25 selected trees, and analyzed. For this discussion, for example, from our randomly selected group of 25 neighboring trees, tree 54, tree 56, tree 86, and tree 88 were specifically selected for further analysis. For these specifically selected trees, marginal posterior densities for the variance components and random effects were then estimated using the Gibbs Sampler, where competition between the trees was assumed present, as well as for the case where it was assumed that no competition takes place between the individually selected trees. In the latter case, an identity matrix was utilized in the Gibbs sampling algorithm where it was assumed that there is no competition between the trees. Both a distance independent competition index (Lorimer,1983), and a distance dependent index (Hegyi, 1974), were used to generate the numerator relationship matrix A that was used by the Gibbs sampling algorithm in the case where competition was assumed between individual trees. Also a new distance dependent index was proposed and tested in this study as well. Results from the selected plot, with a 1500 stems per hectare (sph) density, indicated that there were no significant differences in the average growth between these selected trees. However, the marginal posterior densities of the fixed effects indicated that there was a significant difference in the average growth rates between the base level conditions and other levels determined for each of these fixed effect factors for the selected trees, since their 95% equal tails credibility intervals, did not contain zero. This therefore indicated that the specific treatment applied on the plot, had a significant effect on the individual tree growth. Results when competition was assumed present, revealed that the estimated marginal posterior densities for the error variance as well as tree variance, were severely positively skewed. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Science & Management, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Kepe, Lulama Patrick
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Forests and forestry -- Mathematical models , Trees -- Growth -- Mathematical models , Eucalyptus grandis
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68906 , vital:77161
- Description: In commercial forest production, predicted yields based on mensuration recommendations are seldom realized, and minimal silvicultural standards based on results from trial blocks do not account for the relationship between initial planting density and final stocking. Growth models designed to investigate management options must employ competition indices to provide reliable predictions under extreme silviculture. The competition a tree experiences until the day of harvest is a strong driver for quality and volume of timber. Hence, this turns the regulation of competition into an integral part of silviculture. According to Little et al. (2003), it is known that, at some stage after canopy closure, individual trees in a stand will begin to compete for resources. To investigate competition amongst individual trees, a re-purposed Bayesian mixed effects model, similar in characteristics to a Sire model used for estimating breeding values, is proposed. In animal breeding models, the Sire Model allows for the inclusion of a numerator relationship matrix containing inbreeding coefficients. In a similar way, documented competition indices are included in the model in an attempt to estimate posterior probabilities of specifically selected individual trees being the strongest growers during different stages in the tree growth cycle. Estimated tree growth indices were determined and used to make probability statements in order to rank the individually selected trees based on the amount of growth observed. A tree growth index is a measurement of a tree’s average growth performance in relation to the average growth performance of all trees on the same plot. As different competition indices are introduced into the model, changes in the probabilities are observed and compared to what is visually observed on the plot, i.e. if the tree with the highest probability of being the strongest grower, is actually not necessarily the largest tree of the group of selected trees, but rather the tree that presented the largest amount of growth of the selected group of trees during that specific growth season. From a randomly selected plot, a group of neighboring trees were randomly selected. Four specifically selected target trees were then identified from this group of 25 selected trees, and analyzed. For this discussion, for example, from our randomly selected group of 25 neighboring trees, tree 54, tree 56, tree 86, and tree 88 were specifically selected for further analysis. For these specifically selected trees, marginal posterior densities for the variance components and random effects were then estimated using the Gibbs Sampler, where competition between the trees was assumed present, as well as for the case where it was assumed that no competition takes place between the individually selected trees. In the latter case, an identity matrix was utilized in the Gibbs sampling algorithm where it was assumed that there is no competition between the trees. Both a distance independent competition index (Lorimer,1983), and a distance dependent index (Hegyi, 1974), were used to generate the numerator relationship matrix A that was used by the Gibbs sampling algorithm in the case where competition was assumed between individual trees. Also a new distance dependent index was proposed and tested in this study as well. Results from the selected plot, with a 1500 stems per hectare (sph) density, indicated that there were no significant differences in the average growth between these selected trees. However, the marginal posterior densities of the fixed effects indicated that there was a significant difference in the average growth rates between the base level conditions and other levels determined for each of these fixed effect factors for the selected trees, since their 95% equal tails credibility intervals, did not contain zero. This therefore indicated that the specific treatment applied on the plot, had a significant effect on the individual tree growth. Results when competition was assumed present, revealed that the estimated marginal posterior densities for the error variance as well as tree variance, were severely positively skewed. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Science & Management, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Experiences of accoucheurs caring for women during confinement in public maternity units in the O.R. Tambo District Municipality
- Authors: Wabane, Malibongwe
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Midwifery -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor (Obstetrics) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Hospital care -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69782 , vital:78034
- Description: Midwifery is a health science profession that deals with women in their confinement period, including the caring of new-borns. Historically, the midwifery profession has evolved from being a female-dominated profession to an occupation followed by both males and females. However, accoucheurs working in public maternity units face various challenges, such as a lack of support and discrimination from their female counterparts and women during confinement. These challenges are based mainly on tradition, religion, and the history of midwifery, a female-dominant profession. The potential effects of these challenges can be seen when women during confinement refuse maternal care from accoucheurs. As a result of this prejudice, accoucheurs may be unable to practice their midwifery skills and may choose other disciplines involving less intimate care. Such acts of refusal of care by women during confinement and these various challenges faced by accoucheurs in public maternity units are common in rural areas. The O.R. Tambo District Municipality (ORTDM) comprises predominantly of rural areas where culture and tradition play an essential role in the community’s life. This study employed a qualitative research design with an explorative, descriptive, and contextual approach to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of accoucheurs caring for women during confinement in public maternity units in the ORTDM. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of accoucheurs caring for women during confinement in public maternity units in the ORTDM to make recommendations to nursing managers regarding the provision of optimal support to accoucheurs working in the rural Eastern Cape. The target population of the study was all accoucheurs working in public maternity units in the ORTDM. Snowball sampling, a non-probability sampling method, was used to select participants who met the inclusion criteria and were voluntarily willing to participate in the study. The data collection method used was one-on-one semistructured interviews, which were also captured using a digital voice recorder. Field notes were used during data collection to enhance the researcher’s understanding of accoucheurs’ nonverbal experiences. The sample size, which was 12 accoucheurs, was determined by data saturation. Data was transcribed verbatim, and Braun and Clark’s (2006) steps of reflexive thematic analysis (RTA) were used as a framework for data analysis. Lincoln and Guba’s model of trustworthiness was used to maintain the quality of the study by employing credibility, transferability, confirmability, and dependability (Lincoln and Guba, 1985). The ethical principles that guided this study with human participants were the principles of respect for persons, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice as outlined in the Belmont Report and its application (2015:14) Three main themes emerged from the data analysis, namely: • Theme 1: Accoucheurs experienced specific factors that enabled them to care for women during confinement in public maternity units. • Theme 2: Accoucheurs identified barriers that disabled them in caring for women during confinement in public maternity units. • Theme 3: Recommendations for nurse managers by accoucheurs to optimize their ability to care for women during confinement in public maternity units. Direct quotations from the raw data and relevant literature supported the research study results and were discussed in-depth in Chapter Four. Various recommendations were discussed in Chapter Five of this study that present options for nurse managers to optimize the support for accoucheurs who were caring for women during confinement in public maternity units.Midwifery is a health science profession that deals with women in their confinement period, including the caring of new-borns. Historically, the midwifery profession has evolved from being a female-dominated profession to an occupation followed by both males and females. However, accoucheurs working in public maternity units face various challenges, such as a lack of support and discrimination from their female counterparts and women during confinement. These challenges are based mainly on tradition, religion, and the history of midwifery, a female-dominant profession. The potential effects of these challenges can be seen when women during confinement refuse maternal care from accoucheurs. As a result of this prejudice, accoucheurs may be unable to practice their midwifery skills and may choose other disciplines involving less intimate care. Such acts of refusal of care by women during confinement and these various challenges faced by accoucheurs in public maternity units are common in rural areas. The O.R. Tambo District Municipality (ORTDM) comprises predominantly of rural areas where culture and tradition play an essential role in the community’s life. This study employed a qualitative research design with an explorative, descriptive, and contextual approach to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of accoucheurs caring for women during confinement in public maternity units in the ORTDM. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of accoucheurs caring for women during confinement in public maternity units in the ORTDM to make recommendations to nursing managers regarding the provision of optimal support to accoucheurs working in the rural Eastern Cape. The target population of the study was all accoucheurs working in public maternity units in the ORTDM. Snowball sampling, a non-probability sampling method, was used to select participants who met the inclusion criteria and were voluntarily willing to participate in the study. The data collection method used was one-on-one semistructured interviews, which were also captured using a digital voice recorder. Field notes were used during data collection to enhance the researcher’s understanding of accoucheurs’ nonverbal experiences. The sample size, which was 12 accoucheurs, was determined by data saturation. Data was transcribed verbatim, and Braun and Clark’s (2006) steps of reflexive thematic analysis (RTA) were used as a framework for data analysis. Lincoln and Guba’s model of trustworthiness was used to maintain the quality of the study by employing credibility, transferability, confirmability, and dependability (Lincoln and Guba, 1985). The ethical principles that guided this study with human participants were the principles of respect for persons, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice as outlined in the Belmont Report and its application (2015:14) Three main themes emerged from the data analysis, namely: • Theme 1: Accoucheurs experienced specific factors that enabled them to care for women during confinement in public maternity units. • Theme 2: Accoucheurs identified barriers that disabled them in caring for women during confinement in public maternity units. • Theme 3: Recommendations for nurse managers by accoucheurs to optimize their ability to care for women during confinement in public maternity units. Direct quotations from the raw data and relevant literature supported the research study results and were discussed in-depth in Chapter Four. Various recommendations were discussed in Chapter Five of this study that present options for nurse managers to optimize the support for accoucheurs who were caring for women during confinement in public maternity units. , Thesis (MCur) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Wabane, Malibongwe
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Midwifery -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor (Obstetrics) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Hospital care -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69782 , vital:78034
- Description: Midwifery is a health science profession that deals with women in their confinement period, including the caring of new-borns. Historically, the midwifery profession has evolved from being a female-dominated profession to an occupation followed by both males and females. However, accoucheurs working in public maternity units face various challenges, such as a lack of support and discrimination from their female counterparts and women during confinement. These challenges are based mainly on tradition, religion, and the history of midwifery, a female-dominant profession. The potential effects of these challenges can be seen when women during confinement refuse maternal care from accoucheurs. As a result of this prejudice, accoucheurs may be unable to practice their midwifery skills and may choose other disciplines involving less intimate care. Such acts of refusal of care by women during confinement and these various challenges faced by accoucheurs in public maternity units are common in rural areas. The O.R. Tambo District Municipality (ORTDM) comprises predominantly of rural areas where culture and tradition play an essential role in the community’s life. This study employed a qualitative research design with an explorative, descriptive, and contextual approach to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of accoucheurs caring for women during confinement in public maternity units in the ORTDM. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of accoucheurs caring for women during confinement in public maternity units in the ORTDM to make recommendations to nursing managers regarding the provision of optimal support to accoucheurs working in the rural Eastern Cape. The target population of the study was all accoucheurs working in public maternity units in the ORTDM. Snowball sampling, a non-probability sampling method, was used to select participants who met the inclusion criteria and were voluntarily willing to participate in the study. The data collection method used was one-on-one semistructured interviews, which were also captured using a digital voice recorder. Field notes were used during data collection to enhance the researcher’s understanding of accoucheurs’ nonverbal experiences. The sample size, which was 12 accoucheurs, was determined by data saturation. Data was transcribed verbatim, and Braun and Clark’s (2006) steps of reflexive thematic analysis (RTA) were used as a framework for data analysis. Lincoln and Guba’s model of trustworthiness was used to maintain the quality of the study by employing credibility, transferability, confirmability, and dependability (Lincoln and Guba, 1985). The ethical principles that guided this study with human participants were the principles of respect for persons, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice as outlined in the Belmont Report and its application (2015:14) Three main themes emerged from the data analysis, namely: • Theme 1: Accoucheurs experienced specific factors that enabled them to care for women during confinement in public maternity units. • Theme 2: Accoucheurs identified barriers that disabled them in caring for women during confinement in public maternity units. • Theme 3: Recommendations for nurse managers by accoucheurs to optimize their ability to care for women during confinement in public maternity units. Direct quotations from the raw data and relevant literature supported the research study results and were discussed in-depth in Chapter Four. Various recommendations were discussed in Chapter Five of this study that present options for nurse managers to optimize the support for accoucheurs who were caring for women during confinement in public maternity units.Midwifery is a health science profession that deals with women in their confinement period, including the caring of new-borns. Historically, the midwifery profession has evolved from being a female-dominated profession to an occupation followed by both males and females. However, accoucheurs working in public maternity units face various challenges, such as a lack of support and discrimination from their female counterparts and women during confinement. These challenges are based mainly on tradition, religion, and the history of midwifery, a female-dominant profession. The potential effects of these challenges can be seen when women during confinement refuse maternal care from accoucheurs. As a result of this prejudice, accoucheurs may be unable to practice their midwifery skills and may choose other disciplines involving less intimate care. Such acts of refusal of care by women during confinement and these various challenges faced by accoucheurs in public maternity units are common in rural areas. The O.R. Tambo District Municipality (ORTDM) comprises predominantly of rural areas where culture and tradition play an essential role in the community’s life. This study employed a qualitative research design with an explorative, descriptive, and contextual approach to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of accoucheurs caring for women during confinement in public maternity units in the ORTDM. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of accoucheurs caring for women during confinement in public maternity units in the ORTDM to make recommendations to nursing managers regarding the provision of optimal support to accoucheurs working in the rural Eastern Cape. The target population of the study was all accoucheurs working in public maternity units in the ORTDM. Snowball sampling, a non-probability sampling method, was used to select participants who met the inclusion criteria and were voluntarily willing to participate in the study. The data collection method used was one-on-one semistructured interviews, which were also captured using a digital voice recorder. Field notes were used during data collection to enhance the researcher’s understanding of accoucheurs’ nonverbal experiences. The sample size, which was 12 accoucheurs, was determined by data saturation. Data was transcribed verbatim, and Braun and Clark’s (2006) steps of reflexive thematic analysis (RTA) were used as a framework for data analysis. Lincoln and Guba’s model of trustworthiness was used to maintain the quality of the study by employing credibility, transferability, confirmability, and dependability (Lincoln and Guba, 1985). The ethical principles that guided this study with human participants were the principles of respect for persons, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice as outlined in the Belmont Report and its application (2015:14) Three main themes emerged from the data analysis, namely: • Theme 1: Accoucheurs experienced specific factors that enabled them to care for women during confinement in public maternity units. • Theme 2: Accoucheurs identified barriers that disabled them in caring for women during confinement in public maternity units. • Theme 3: Recommendations for nurse managers by accoucheurs to optimize their ability to care for women during confinement in public maternity units. Direct quotations from the raw data and relevant literature supported the research study results and were discussed in-depth in Chapter Four. Various recommendations were discussed in Chapter Five of this study that present options for nurse managers to optimize the support for accoucheurs who were caring for women during confinement in public maternity units. , Thesis (MCur) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Exploiting continuous flow technology to develop synthetic processes for active pharmaceutical ingredients: prilocaine and betrixaban
- Authors: Sagandira, Mellisa Brenda
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Pharmaceutical technology , Drug development , Pharmaceutical biotechnology
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69464 , vital:77259
- Description: The dilemma of providing affordable health care has long haunted African countries due to the continuously growing disease burden as the population increases. Africa accounts for only 3 % of global drug production and imports over 90 % of its life saving medicines at a yearly cost of US$14 billion according to the African Development Bank (AfDB). Attaining Africa’s Agenda 2063, Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and Sustainable development Goal 3 (SDG3) aspirations of ensuring healthy and well-nourished citizens remain difficult given this situation. This over-dependence on imports has led to drug shortages, high pricing, poor quality medicines and unguaranteed supply chains, thus there still remains an unmet need. The advent of the COVID-19 pandemic worsened this situation as many countries curbed exports resulting in a crisis across the continent. Africa experienced high demand of medicines compared to prepandemic level, which threatened the health care of the continent. This situation can be addressed by establishment of local pharmaceutical manufacturing capability through adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies such as continuous flow chemistry. In this research, we therefore seek to exploit continuous flow chemistry, an enabling technology to develop safe and efficient synthetic processes for active pharmaceutical ingredients: prilocaine and betrixaban as case studies. To the best of our knowledge there is no reported work on synthetic processes towards prilocaine and betrixaban under continuous flow conditions, thus this research extensively unearthed interesting continuous flow processes towards these APIs. In a broader view, establishment of local APIs production will ease Africa’s over-dependence on imports, which will in turn address issues such as drug shortages, poor quality and high pricing. This work aims to demonstrate how continuous flow technology can be useful for the establishment of local APIs manufacturing, which will inherently revolutionize medicines availability, affordability and accessibility to the greater population. Chapter one begins with a brief overview on Africa’s disease burden and pharmaceutical supply chain. Continuous flow chemistry is introduced with its benefits and limitations discussed. Lastly a mini review of examples of APIs synthesised in continuous flow is presented. In chapter two, we demonstrate how continuous flow technology can be exploited to develop synthetic processes towards prilocaine as our first case study. This chapter clearly demonstrates how highly exothermic nitration reactions can be safely handled by using continuous flow systems. Additionally, the use of a micro structured mixer facilitated biphasic nitration of toluene to be carried out with enhanced mass transfer, which inherently led to improved selectivity of ortho-nitrotoluene (preferred isomer) to 79 % compared to 59 % achieved in batch mode. A two-step synthesis of ortho-toluidine via biphasic nitration of toluene and nitroreduction was demonstrated with the incorporation of a Zaiput liquid/liquid separator to facilitate in-line separation. Comprehensive optimisation studies were carried out in flow. Prilocaine was synthesised in 74 % overall yield in a 13.6 min residence time for all processes. In chapter three, we demonstrate how continuous flow technology can be exploited to develop synthetic processes towards betrixaban. Synthetic routes towards betrixaban feature two amide bond formation transformations. Pleasingly, we explored multistep chemistry to develop amide synthesis protocols in flow without interruption for work up and isolation. An overall yield of 92 % was achieved to get to key intermediate to betrixaban in 8 min total residence time. Chapter four demonstrates the robustness of developed amide synthesis protocols, a key transformation in synthetic routes towards prilocaine and betrixaban in continuous flow systems. A total of 22 amides were synthesised via flow multistep processes with isolated yields greater than 82 %. All the compounds were characterized using infrared spectroscopy (IR), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Quantification of the reaction mixtures were carried out using highperformance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography (GC). , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Sagandira, Mellisa Brenda
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Pharmaceutical technology , Drug development , Pharmaceutical biotechnology
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69464 , vital:77259
- Description: The dilemma of providing affordable health care has long haunted African countries due to the continuously growing disease burden as the population increases. Africa accounts for only 3 % of global drug production and imports over 90 % of its life saving medicines at a yearly cost of US$14 billion according to the African Development Bank (AfDB). Attaining Africa’s Agenda 2063, Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and Sustainable development Goal 3 (SDG3) aspirations of ensuring healthy and well-nourished citizens remain difficult given this situation. This over-dependence on imports has led to drug shortages, high pricing, poor quality medicines and unguaranteed supply chains, thus there still remains an unmet need. The advent of the COVID-19 pandemic worsened this situation as many countries curbed exports resulting in a crisis across the continent. Africa experienced high demand of medicines compared to prepandemic level, which threatened the health care of the continent. This situation can be addressed by establishment of local pharmaceutical manufacturing capability through adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies such as continuous flow chemistry. In this research, we therefore seek to exploit continuous flow chemistry, an enabling technology to develop safe and efficient synthetic processes for active pharmaceutical ingredients: prilocaine and betrixaban as case studies. To the best of our knowledge there is no reported work on synthetic processes towards prilocaine and betrixaban under continuous flow conditions, thus this research extensively unearthed interesting continuous flow processes towards these APIs. In a broader view, establishment of local APIs production will ease Africa’s over-dependence on imports, which will in turn address issues such as drug shortages, poor quality and high pricing. This work aims to demonstrate how continuous flow technology can be useful for the establishment of local APIs manufacturing, which will inherently revolutionize medicines availability, affordability and accessibility to the greater population. Chapter one begins with a brief overview on Africa’s disease burden and pharmaceutical supply chain. Continuous flow chemistry is introduced with its benefits and limitations discussed. Lastly a mini review of examples of APIs synthesised in continuous flow is presented. In chapter two, we demonstrate how continuous flow technology can be exploited to develop synthetic processes towards prilocaine as our first case study. This chapter clearly demonstrates how highly exothermic nitration reactions can be safely handled by using continuous flow systems. Additionally, the use of a micro structured mixer facilitated biphasic nitration of toluene to be carried out with enhanced mass transfer, which inherently led to improved selectivity of ortho-nitrotoluene (preferred isomer) to 79 % compared to 59 % achieved in batch mode. A two-step synthesis of ortho-toluidine via biphasic nitration of toluene and nitroreduction was demonstrated with the incorporation of a Zaiput liquid/liquid separator to facilitate in-line separation. Comprehensive optimisation studies were carried out in flow. Prilocaine was synthesised in 74 % overall yield in a 13.6 min residence time for all processes. In chapter three, we demonstrate how continuous flow technology can be exploited to develop synthetic processes towards betrixaban. Synthetic routes towards betrixaban feature two amide bond formation transformations. Pleasingly, we explored multistep chemistry to develop amide synthesis protocols in flow without interruption for work up and isolation. An overall yield of 92 % was achieved to get to key intermediate to betrixaban in 8 min total residence time. Chapter four demonstrates the robustness of developed amide synthesis protocols, a key transformation in synthetic routes towards prilocaine and betrixaban in continuous flow systems. A total of 22 amides were synthesised via flow multistep processes with isolated yields greater than 82 %. All the compounds were characterized using infrared spectroscopy (IR), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Quantification of the reaction mixtures were carried out using highperformance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography (GC). , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Exploring children’s understandings of gender using critical literacy in a reading club
- Jansen, Lincoln Lee, Surname, name
- Authors: Jansen, Lincoln Lee , Surname, name
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Book clubs (Discussion groups) -- South Africa , Literacy -- Study and teaching (Elementary) , Literacy -- Study and teaching (Middle school)
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68333 , vital:76976
- Description: School literacy practices have always favoured traditional, gender stereotypical portrayals of characters in books. These portrayals are not troublesome as it helps children build a sense of identity. However, these portrayals often fail to represent people in more diverse ways and thus does not reflect how societies have progressed. These narrow portrayals are also often limiting and do not take into consideration people’s personal interests which can lead to them being ostracised and marginalised. The People’s Republic of China is the context for this study where traditional, conservative views are upheld about ways of being and doing for males and females. This is a qualitative study within the interpretivist paradigm which recognised the individual perceptions of participants within their specific sociocultural context. By establishing a reading club as a Third Space for literacy engagement, this study sought to explore how grade 2 learners at a school in Beijing, China responded to traditional and diverse portrayals of characters in books. This study regarded the establishment of a reading club as an empowering practice as it allowed a safe space for the participants to freely share their deliberations about ways of being in the world. Coupled with critical literacy as a practice, participants took a critical stance in instances of gender bias and injustices and in doing so, allowed them to accentuate their morality. Findings of this study suggest that the Chinese participants had very flexible ideas about ways of being and doing in the world as long as these did not conflict with their understandings of the law. Participants also upheld that gender performances and gendered behaviour are open to all with impunity. The findings of this study also highlight the importance of providing diverse literature to children as this helps them to deal with, and examine, issues they might not ordinarily encounter in a safe way and in doing so, expand their worldviews and cultivate empathy. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, School of Primary Schooling, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Jansen, Lincoln Lee , Surname, name
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Book clubs (Discussion groups) -- South Africa , Literacy -- Study and teaching (Elementary) , Literacy -- Study and teaching (Middle school)
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68333 , vital:76976
- Description: School literacy practices have always favoured traditional, gender stereotypical portrayals of characters in books. These portrayals are not troublesome as it helps children build a sense of identity. However, these portrayals often fail to represent people in more diverse ways and thus does not reflect how societies have progressed. These narrow portrayals are also often limiting and do not take into consideration people’s personal interests which can lead to them being ostracised and marginalised. The People’s Republic of China is the context for this study where traditional, conservative views are upheld about ways of being and doing for males and females. This is a qualitative study within the interpretivist paradigm which recognised the individual perceptions of participants within their specific sociocultural context. By establishing a reading club as a Third Space for literacy engagement, this study sought to explore how grade 2 learners at a school in Beijing, China responded to traditional and diverse portrayals of characters in books. This study regarded the establishment of a reading club as an empowering practice as it allowed a safe space for the participants to freely share their deliberations about ways of being in the world. Coupled with critical literacy as a practice, participants took a critical stance in instances of gender bias and injustices and in doing so, allowed them to accentuate their morality. Findings of this study suggest that the Chinese participants had very flexible ideas about ways of being and doing in the world as long as these did not conflict with their understandings of the law. Participants also upheld that gender performances and gendered behaviour are open to all with impunity. The findings of this study also highlight the importance of providing diverse literature to children as this helps them to deal with, and examine, issues they might not ordinarily encounter in a safe way and in doing so, expand their worldviews and cultivate empathy. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, School of Primary Schooling, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Exploring cultural context and masculine ideals: implications for male mental health help-seeking in South Africa
- Authors: Bux, Shezadia
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Masculinity -- South Africa , Men -- Mental health , Help-seeking behavior -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69849 , vital:78040
- Description: The pervasive underdiagnosis and undertreatment of mental health issues among males, exacerbated by societal expectations of masculinity, represent a significant public health concern. This study addresses the critical gap in understanding how sociocultural constructs of masculinity influence mental health help-seeking behaviours among males in South Africa, a context marked by high rates of crime, violence, substance abuse, and male suicides. Adopting a qualitative research approach, this study conducted in-depth interviews with 12 participants, employing convenience and snowball sampling techniques to achieve data saturation. Thematic analysis was utilised to systematically identify and interpret patterns of meaning within the data, focusing on participants' understandings of mental health, the impact of sociocultural constructions of masculinity on their help-seeking behaviours, and the barriers they encounter. The findings illuminate the profound impact of sociocultural constructs of masculinity on male mental health help-seeking behaviours, revealing significant barriers rooted in societal stigma, traditional masculinity norms, and a lack of tailored mental health services. The study also introduces a conceptual model illustrating the influences on mental health acknowledgement and help-seeking behaviour among males in South Africa, underscored by a reflective analysis of exploring male emotional well-being. This study highlights the urgent need for culturally sensitive mental health care interventions that address the unique challenges faced by men in South African communities. By challenging societal norms and advocating for improved mental health awareness and services tailored to men, this research contributes to the broader discourse on gender, mental health, and social change, offering insights for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners aiming to enhance male mental health outcomes. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Bux, Shezadia
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Masculinity -- South Africa , Men -- Mental health , Help-seeking behavior -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69849 , vital:78040
- Description: The pervasive underdiagnosis and undertreatment of mental health issues among males, exacerbated by societal expectations of masculinity, represent a significant public health concern. This study addresses the critical gap in understanding how sociocultural constructs of masculinity influence mental health help-seeking behaviours among males in South Africa, a context marked by high rates of crime, violence, substance abuse, and male suicides. Adopting a qualitative research approach, this study conducted in-depth interviews with 12 participants, employing convenience and snowball sampling techniques to achieve data saturation. Thematic analysis was utilised to systematically identify and interpret patterns of meaning within the data, focusing on participants' understandings of mental health, the impact of sociocultural constructions of masculinity on their help-seeking behaviours, and the barriers they encounter. The findings illuminate the profound impact of sociocultural constructs of masculinity on male mental health help-seeking behaviours, revealing significant barriers rooted in societal stigma, traditional masculinity norms, and a lack of tailored mental health services. The study also introduces a conceptual model illustrating the influences on mental health acknowledgement and help-seeking behaviour among males in South Africa, underscored by a reflective analysis of exploring male emotional well-being. This study highlights the urgent need for culturally sensitive mental health care interventions that address the unique challenges faced by men in South African communities. By challenging societal norms and advocating for improved mental health awareness and services tailored to men, this research contributes to the broader discourse on gender, mental health, and social change, offering insights for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners aiming to enhance male mental health outcomes. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Exploring resilience in undergraduate nursing students at a nursing education institution in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Blatti, Jenny
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Nursing students -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Psychology , Nursing -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Nursing schools -- Faculty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69805 , vital:78036
- Description: Undergraduate nursing students worldwide experience stress and anxiety due to the demands of nursing education, which include challenges related to academic workloads and the clinical environment. This, in turn, may impede programme completion and continuation in nursing careers. Resilience is recognised as an effective attribute for nursing students in adapting to stressors and has been found to have a beneficial impact on learning experiences, academic performance, and professional practice. Despite numerous research studies conducted on resilience in the health professions, there remains little empirical work that has explored undergraduate nursing students' understanding and experience of their resilience. The purpose of this study was thus to explore undergraduate nursing students’ perceptions of their resilience at a nursing education institution in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, and to compile recommendations for a resilience training programme in undergraduate nursing education. A qualitative, explorative, descriptive, and contextual research design was implemented, with the study underpinned by the Resilience Ecological Stress Model. Third and fourth-year nursing students were recruited by purposive sampling, following which data was collected online by means of eleven individual semi-structured interviews conducted and recorded on the Microsoft (MS) Teams platform. Data was analysed using Braun and Clarke’s six steps of reflexive thematic analysis, generating codes and themes. The following themes were identified: participants’ perceptions of their challenges while studying nursing, participants’ understanding and experience of resilience, and participants’ views on the unique requirements of the degree in nursing. Findings indicated that nursing students perceive resilience as a beneficial attribute in mitigating the stress and anxiety evoked by their diverse challenges. Recommendations for nursing education were formulated based on the theoretical framework constructs and the findings of the study. , Thesis (MCur) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Blatti, Jenny
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Nursing students -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Psychology , Nursing -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Nursing schools -- Faculty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69805 , vital:78036
- Description: Undergraduate nursing students worldwide experience stress and anxiety due to the demands of nursing education, which include challenges related to academic workloads and the clinical environment. This, in turn, may impede programme completion and continuation in nursing careers. Resilience is recognised as an effective attribute for nursing students in adapting to stressors and has been found to have a beneficial impact on learning experiences, academic performance, and professional practice. Despite numerous research studies conducted on resilience in the health professions, there remains little empirical work that has explored undergraduate nursing students' understanding and experience of their resilience. The purpose of this study was thus to explore undergraduate nursing students’ perceptions of their resilience at a nursing education institution in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, and to compile recommendations for a resilience training programme in undergraduate nursing education. A qualitative, explorative, descriptive, and contextual research design was implemented, with the study underpinned by the Resilience Ecological Stress Model. Third and fourth-year nursing students were recruited by purposive sampling, following which data was collected online by means of eleven individual semi-structured interviews conducted and recorded on the Microsoft (MS) Teams platform. Data was analysed using Braun and Clarke’s six steps of reflexive thematic analysis, generating codes and themes. The following themes were identified: participants’ perceptions of their challenges while studying nursing, participants’ understanding and experience of resilience, and participants’ views on the unique requirements of the degree in nursing. Findings indicated that nursing students perceive resilience as a beneficial attribute in mitigating the stress and anxiety evoked by their diverse challenges. Recommendations for nursing education were formulated based on the theoretical framework constructs and the findings of the study. , Thesis (MCur) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Exploring the nature of the parent-child relationship and well- being of adolescents in families with a current history of maternal mental illness in a semi-urban area in East London, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Phakane, Siphokazi
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Parent and child , Adolescent psychology , Mental illness
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69838 , vital:78039
- Description: Parent mental illness can detrimentally impact family functioning, thereby leading to increased conflicts, reduced adaptability, limited cohesion, and disorganised everyday planning (Smith, 2018). However, the specific effects of maternal mental illness on the relationship between mothers and adolescents, as well as on adolescent social and psychological development, remain unclear (Jones & Brown, 2020). This study aimed to explore and describe the nature of the parent-child relationship and the well-being of adolescents in families with a current history of maternal mental illness. Drawing from Bowlby's Ethological Theory of Attachment (1969) and from Ainsworth’s Attachment Theory (1970), qualitative research methods were employed to delve into these dynamics. The participants encompassed mothers aged between 30 to 60 with a current history of mental illness and adolescents aged between 15 to 18 residing with a mother with a current history of mental illness, and who is in remission. The study was conducted in a semi-urban area in East London, which is characterised by high unemployment rates, low education levels, and social stressors impacting mental health and family dynamics (Clark et al., 2019). Data collection involved face-to-face interviews, as well as utilising non-probability purposive and snowball sampling techniques. Braun and Clarke's (2006) framework was utilised for data interpretation, thus ensuring the adherence to the research ethics and to the trustworthiness standards as outlined by Lincoln and Guba (1985). The findings revealed both challenges and strengths in these families. The adolescents expressed concerns about the lack of parental support, coerced autonomy, and communication barriers. However, they also reported positive experiences of companionship and nurturing from their mothers. Emotional regulation difficulties and socio-economic challenges were prevalent, thus highlighting the need for tailored targeted support interventions to address the complex issues that are faced by the adolescents in the families which are affected by maternal mental illness. Overall, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the nuanced , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Phakane, Siphokazi
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Parent and child , Adolescent psychology , Mental illness
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69838 , vital:78039
- Description: Parent mental illness can detrimentally impact family functioning, thereby leading to increased conflicts, reduced adaptability, limited cohesion, and disorganised everyday planning (Smith, 2018). However, the specific effects of maternal mental illness on the relationship between mothers and adolescents, as well as on adolescent social and psychological development, remain unclear (Jones & Brown, 2020). This study aimed to explore and describe the nature of the parent-child relationship and the well-being of adolescents in families with a current history of maternal mental illness. Drawing from Bowlby's Ethological Theory of Attachment (1969) and from Ainsworth’s Attachment Theory (1970), qualitative research methods were employed to delve into these dynamics. The participants encompassed mothers aged between 30 to 60 with a current history of mental illness and adolescents aged between 15 to 18 residing with a mother with a current history of mental illness, and who is in remission. The study was conducted in a semi-urban area in East London, which is characterised by high unemployment rates, low education levels, and social stressors impacting mental health and family dynamics (Clark et al., 2019). Data collection involved face-to-face interviews, as well as utilising non-probability purposive and snowball sampling techniques. Braun and Clarke's (2006) framework was utilised for data interpretation, thus ensuring the adherence to the research ethics and to the trustworthiness standards as outlined by Lincoln and Guba (1985). The findings revealed both challenges and strengths in these families. The adolescents expressed concerns about the lack of parental support, coerced autonomy, and communication barriers. However, they also reported positive experiences of companionship and nurturing from their mothers. Emotional regulation difficulties and socio-economic challenges were prevalent, thus highlighting the need for tailored targeted support interventions to address the complex issues that are faced by the adolescents in the families which are affected by maternal mental illness. Overall, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the nuanced , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2024
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- Date Issued: 2024-12
Extending psychological praxis within South Africa: exploring healers’ perceptions of treatment plurality
- Authors: Yew-Siong, Lauren
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Traditional medicine -- South Africa , Psychology -- Africa , Clinical health psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69771 , vital:78032
- Description: The prevailing psychological praxis in South Africa predominantly follows western paradigms for defining, classifying, and diagnosing health and illness; falling short in encompassing the diverse mental healthcare reality. Scarce resources, inadequate infrastructure, and the interplay of religio-cultural beliefs intersect, shaping how psychological disturbances are perceived and how treatment is sought- especially for patients who do not ascribe to one treatment modality, or one paradigm. Therefore, this study explored ideas and notions surrounding treatment plurality held by healers (that being psychologists, psychiatrists, and traditional healers), within the South African context. The research utilised a qualitative exploratory-descriptive research methodology with a phenomenological research design. The researcher then employed purposive and snowball sampling to recruit participants. Thereafter, the researcher conducted online semi-structured interviews, and applied Braun and Clarke's (2006) thematic analysis to analyse the data. The following themes were then unpacked: 1) Healers’ perceptions of treatment plurality; 2) The need for collaboration between various disciplines; 3) Education as a key factor in pluralism; 4) Healer ethics and malpractice; 5) The lack of governmental funding and resources. The results suggest the need for a pluralistic mental healthcare approach in South Africa, bridging western and traditional practices. Yet, challenges stemming from inadequate governmental funding, resources, policies, and ethical guidelines hinder its development and implementation. Therefore, it would take more than one set of guidelines to implement pluralistic treatment within South African mental healthcare. For this purpose, the researcher decided to create a blueprint for various developments that is needed to make a pluralistic approach a reality in South Africa. These findings encouraged the researcher to develop: 1) Guidelines for the Provision of Collaborative Care in Mental Healthcare Services; 2) Guidelines for South African governmental policy that foster pluralism and collaborative care in the mental healthcare system; 3) A pluralistic medical aid scheme; 4) A module blueprint that could potentially be included in a professional master’s programme, as well as the inclusion of a theory the researcher has developed, named the Pluralism-oriented Mental Healthcare Theory. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2023
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- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Yew-Siong, Lauren
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Traditional medicine -- South Africa , Psychology -- Africa , Clinical health psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69771 , vital:78032
- Description: The prevailing psychological praxis in South Africa predominantly follows western paradigms for defining, classifying, and diagnosing health and illness; falling short in encompassing the diverse mental healthcare reality. Scarce resources, inadequate infrastructure, and the interplay of religio-cultural beliefs intersect, shaping how psychological disturbances are perceived and how treatment is sought- especially for patients who do not ascribe to one treatment modality, or one paradigm. Therefore, this study explored ideas and notions surrounding treatment plurality held by healers (that being psychologists, psychiatrists, and traditional healers), within the South African context. The research utilised a qualitative exploratory-descriptive research methodology with a phenomenological research design. The researcher then employed purposive and snowball sampling to recruit participants. Thereafter, the researcher conducted online semi-structured interviews, and applied Braun and Clarke's (2006) thematic analysis to analyse the data. The following themes were then unpacked: 1) Healers’ perceptions of treatment plurality; 2) The need for collaboration between various disciplines; 3) Education as a key factor in pluralism; 4) Healer ethics and malpractice; 5) The lack of governmental funding and resources. The results suggest the need for a pluralistic mental healthcare approach in South Africa, bridging western and traditional practices. Yet, challenges stemming from inadequate governmental funding, resources, policies, and ethical guidelines hinder its development and implementation. Therefore, it would take more than one set of guidelines to implement pluralistic treatment within South African mental healthcare. For this purpose, the researcher decided to create a blueprint for various developments that is needed to make a pluralistic approach a reality in South Africa. These findings encouraged the researcher to develop: 1) Guidelines for the Provision of Collaborative Care in Mental Healthcare Services; 2) Guidelines for South African governmental policy that foster pluralism and collaborative care in the mental healthcare system; 3) A pluralistic medical aid scheme; 4) A module blueprint that could potentially be included in a professional master’s programme, as well as the inclusion of a theory the researcher has developed, named the Pluralism-oriented Mental Healthcare Theory. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Formulation of Fish Feed for Aquaculture using Olive Pomace Extract as an Antioxidant
- Authors: Koza, Nondumiso Norma
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Fishes -- Feeding and feeds , Fishes -- Ecology , Sustainable aquaculture
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69318 , vital:77205
- Description: Olive pomace is a significant by-product of the olive oil extraction process and is an environmental issue in olive-producing countries. This project aimed to add extracts from olive pomace as an antioxidant to a fish feed formulation without compromising growth performance and meat quality, thereby contributing to the aquaculture industry. To produce the olive pomace extracts, Coratina cultivar olives were collected from a farm near Oudtshoorn, and the fresh pomace was immediately frozen at -22oC for preservation. The extracts were obtained using a large-scale extraction method using a solvent blend of n-heptane, ethanol, and water. A pressure filtration and centrifuge method were then applied to separate any residue from the extracts. An HPLC method was developed to characterise the extracts' content, identifying various bioactive compounds such as squalene, α-tocopherol, and water-soluble polyphenols like oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol, and tyrosol. In a fish feeding trial it was concluded that the fish fed with the feed without olive pomace gained more weight than those fed the feed with the added pomace extract. Overall, the results indicate that fish sustained on the feed without the olive pomace extract ate more food, consuming more energy to support weight gain but that this did not necessarily translate to an improved feed conversion ratio. The morphometric variables suggest that fish used in the trial remained healthy, implying that there may be a taste or palatability difference between feeds that could explain why less of the feed with olive pomace extract was eaten. Overall, the observed feed conversion ratio values were somewhat lower than the expected values for tilapia (FCR: 1.5-2.0). The peroxide value of fish feed with an addition of 0.3% olive pomace extract was lower than that of the feed without olive pomace extract after 12 weeks of stability testing at room temperature. The results showed a value of 1.48 MeqO2/kg for the feed containing olive pomace extract compared to the peroxide value for the fish feed without olive pomace extract, which was 2.75 MeqO2/kg. This indicates that the nutritional content of the feed was preserved. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2024
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- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Koza, Nondumiso Norma
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Fishes -- Feeding and feeds , Fishes -- Ecology , Sustainable aquaculture
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69318 , vital:77205
- Description: Olive pomace is a significant by-product of the olive oil extraction process and is an environmental issue in olive-producing countries. This project aimed to add extracts from olive pomace as an antioxidant to a fish feed formulation without compromising growth performance and meat quality, thereby contributing to the aquaculture industry. To produce the olive pomace extracts, Coratina cultivar olives were collected from a farm near Oudtshoorn, and the fresh pomace was immediately frozen at -22oC for preservation. The extracts were obtained using a large-scale extraction method using a solvent blend of n-heptane, ethanol, and water. A pressure filtration and centrifuge method were then applied to separate any residue from the extracts. An HPLC method was developed to characterise the extracts' content, identifying various bioactive compounds such as squalene, α-tocopherol, and water-soluble polyphenols like oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol, and tyrosol. In a fish feeding trial it was concluded that the fish fed with the feed without olive pomace gained more weight than those fed the feed with the added pomace extract. Overall, the results indicate that fish sustained on the feed without the olive pomace extract ate more food, consuming more energy to support weight gain but that this did not necessarily translate to an improved feed conversion ratio. The morphometric variables suggest that fish used in the trial remained healthy, implying that there may be a taste or palatability difference between feeds that could explain why less of the feed with olive pomace extract was eaten. Overall, the observed feed conversion ratio values were somewhat lower than the expected values for tilapia (FCR: 1.5-2.0). The peroxide value of fish feed with an addition of 0.3% olive pomace extract was lower than that of the feed without olive pomace extract after 12 weeks of stability testing at room temperature. The results showed a value of 1.48 MeqO2/kg for the feed containing olive pomace extract compared to the peroxide value for the fish feed without olive pomace extract, which was 2.75 MeqO2/kg. This indicates that the nutritional content of the feed was preserved. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12