Exclusive breastfeeding up to six months in very and extremly low birth weight infants and determinants of breastfeeding practices at the Frere Hospital in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Haughton, Anna-Marie
- Date: 2024-03
- Subjects: Brestfeeding Practices
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/11065 , vital:75881
- Description: INTRODUCTION: Breastmilk provides adequate nutrition for the optimal growth and development of infants globally. Breastfeeding is an incomparable practice that cannot sufficiently be replaced by any other substance. Breastmilk and breastfeeding offer numerous medical and non-medical advantages that influence the welfare not only of infants, but also of women, their families and society. The last few decades have shown a worldwide increase in the birth and survival rate of preterm, very low birth weight (VLBW) and extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants. These infants have an increased risk of adverse outcomes, thus necessitating optimal management including best feeding practices of this vulnerable population. AIM: This study assessed the exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) rate in VLBW and ELBW infants at their corrected six months of age and aimed to identify reasons for premature cessation of EBF as well as appraising the association between maternal socio-demographic variables and breastfeeding practices. This study also investigated the type, volume and preparation of replacement feeds given to infants that were not EBF. iii METHOD: This retrospective, cross sectional descriptive study was conducted between December 2017 to November 2018 at Frere Hospital in the Eastern Cape. A comprehensive database was compiled with all the infants’ demographics and relevant maternal socio-demographic variables at birth. Information on the changeover of primary caregiver, feeding practices, reasons stated for premature discontinuation of EBF, and the infant’s anthropometry were documented at each follow up visit and included in the database. RESULTS: The prevalence of EBF at the corrected six month follow up was 22%. Insufficient breastmilk supply (23%, 43% and 13% at one, three and six months respectively) and maternal commitments to school or work (35%, 33% and 50% at one, three and six months respectively) were the predominant reasons stated by mothers for discontinuation of EBF. The number of other children a mother had was significantly related to EBF practices at months one and six (p = .029 and .025, respectively), and EBF was also significantly related to the level of maternal education at month three (p = .006). The percentage of mothers who breastfed exclusively was proportional to the number of other children they had, and inversely proportional to the level of their education. The volume of replacement feeds was known to be incorrect in over a third of cases at months one and three (35% and 34%, respectively), and in almost half of cases at month six (48%). Replacement feeds were being prepared most incorrectly at the three month follow up with almost half (46%) of these feeds being prepared iv inaccurately. These replacement feeds comprised of exclusive formula feeds (EFF) for 95% of cases that were not EBF at month one, 88% at month three, and 97% at month six. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of EBF in VLBW and ELBW infants at six months in this study remains sub-optimal compared with other low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and is much lower than the target set by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Factors that affected EBF practices in this study include mother’s perception of insufficient breastmilk supply, maternal commitments to work/school, the number of other children in the household as well as the level of maternal education. A combination of various interventions is urgently needed to effectively increase EBF rates in this population. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-03
- Authors: Haughton, Anna-Marie
- Date: 2024-03
- Subjects: Brestfeeding Practices
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/11065 , vital:75881
- Description: INTRODUCTION: Breastmilk provides adequate nutrition for the optimal growth and development of infants globally. Breastfeeding is an incomparable practice that cannot sufficiently be replaced by any other substance. Breastmilk and breastfeeding offer numerous medical and non-medical advantages that influence the welfare not only of infants, but also of women, their families and society. The last few decades have shown a worldwide increase in the birth and survival rate of preterm, very low birth weight (VLBW) and extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants. These infants have an increased risk of adverse outcomes, thus necessitating optimal management including best feeding practices of this vulnerable population. AIM: This study assessed the exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) rate in VLBW and ELBW infants at their corrected six months of age and aimed to identify reasons for premature cessation of EBF as well as appraising the association between maternal socio-demographic variables and breastfeeding practices. This study also investigated the type, volume and preparation of replacement feeds given to infants that were not EBF. iii METHOD: This retrospective, cross sectional descriptive study was conducted between December 2017 to November 2018 at Frere Hospital in the Eastern Cape. A comprehensive database was compiled with all the infants’ demographics and relevant maternal socio-demographic variables at birth. Information on the changeover of primary caregiver, feeding practices, reasons stated for premature discontinuation of EBF, and the infant’s anthropometry were documented at each follow up visit and included in the database. RESULTS: The prevalence of EBF at the corrected six month follow up was 22%. Insufficient breastmilk supply (23%, 43% and 13% at one, three and six months respectively) and maternal commitments to school or work (35%, 33% and 50% at one, three and six months respectively) were the predominant reasons stated by mothers for discontinuation of EBF. The number of other children a mother had was significantly related to EBF practices at months one and six (p = .029 and .025, respectively), and EBF was also significantly related to the level of maternal education at month three (p = .006). The percentage of mothers who breastfed exclusively was proportional to the number of other children they had, and inversely proportional to the level of their education. The volume of replacement feeds was known to be incorrect in over a third of cases at months one and three (35% and 34%, respectively), and in almost half of cases at month six (48%). Replacement feeds were being prepared most incorrectly at the three month follow up with almost half (46%) of these feeds being prepared iv inaccurately. These replacement feeds comprised of exclusive formula feeds (EFF) for 95% of cases that were not EBF at month one, 88% at month three, and 97% at month six. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of EBF in VLBW and ELBW infants at six months in this study remains sub-optimal compared with other low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and is much lower than the target set by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Factors that affected EBF practices in this study include mother’s perception of insufficient breastmilk supply, maternal commitments to work/school, the number of other children in the household as well as the level of maternal education. A combination of various interventions is urgently needed to effectively increase EBF rates in this population. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-03
Factors influencing digital marketing adoption for female interpreneurs in small and medium enterprices of OR Thambo Municipality
- Authors: Maduna, Siyasanga
- Date: 2024-00
- Subjects: Digital Marketing
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/10065 , vital:74935
- Description: The rise of the Internet has transformed the business landscape, leading to the rapid growth of major online retailers and service providers like Amazon, Facebook, and Google, all of which play significant roles in the digital economy (Kannan, 2017). Global internet usage continues to grow, with South Africa not an exception. The research seeks to explore the factors influencing digital marketing adoption for female entrepreneurs on small and medium enterprise in OR Tambo municipality. This dissertation employs a quantitative research design. The study employs structural equation modelling (SEM) techniques to analyse a comprehensive dataset gathered from 313 female entrepreneurs. The findings reveal a nuanced relationship between adoption of digital marketing and business performance. The SEM results indicate that H4, have a positive influence on adoption of digital marketing, and H5, have a positive influence on business performance. The hypotheses H1; H2 and H3 had negative relationship on adoption on adoption of digital marketing hence they were rejection. The implications of these findings are discussed in the context of factors that influence the adoption of digital marketing on enhancing business performance for SME’s. The dissertation contributes to inclusive economic development, policy implications; educational interventions; strategic business imperative and social impact. Beyond the economic aspects, the study contributes to social impact by challenging and potentially reshaping societal norms and expectations regarding women's roles in business. This research not only advances the theoretical understanding of the link between adoption of digital marketing and business performance but also provides valuable insights for designing effective marketing strategies to improve business performance on female entrepreneurs. The dissertation concludes with suggestions for future research directions to further refine an understanding of the intricate dynamics involved in the relationship between adoption of digital marketing and business performance. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Economics and Financial Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-00
- Authors: Maduna, Siyasanga
- Date: 2024-00
- Subjects: Digital Marketing
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/10065 , vital:74935
- Description: The rise of the Internet has transformed the business landscape, leading to the rapid growth of major online retailers and service providers like Amazon, Facebook, and Google, all of which play significant roles in the digital economy (Kannan, 2017). Global internet usage continues to grow, with South Africa not an exception. The research seeks to explore the factors influencing digital marketing adoption for female entrepreneurs on small and medium enterprise in OR Tambo municipality. This dissertation employs a quantitative research design. The study employs structural equation modelling (SEM) techniques to analyse a comprehensive dataset gathered from 313 female entrepreneurs. The findings reveal a nuanced relationship between adoption of digital marketing and business performance. The SEM results indicate that H4, have a positive influence on adoption of digital marketing, and H5, have a positive influence on business performance. The hypotheses H1; H2 and H3 had negative relationship on adoption on adoption of digital marketing hence they were rejection. The implications of these findings are discussed in the context of factors that influence the adoption of digital marketing on enhancing business performance for SME’s. The dissertation contributes to inclusive economic development, policy implications; educational interventions; strategic business imperative and social impact. Beyond the economic aspects, the study contributes to social impact by challenging and potentially reshaping societal norms and expectations regarding women's roles in business. This research not only advances the theoretical understanding of the link between adoption of digital marketing and business performance but also provides valuable insights for designing effective marketing strategies to improve business performance on female entrepreneurs. The dissertation concludes with suggestions for future research directions to further refine an understanding of the intricate dynamics involved in the relationship between adoption of digital marketing and business performance. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Economics and Financial Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-00
Government expenditure on health services and economic development in South Africa
- Authors: Magida, Ngesisa
- Date: 2024-00
- Subjects: Government expenditure on health services
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/10146 , vital:74943
- Description: Economic development relates to economic growth and improvements in the living standards of people. South Africa is ranked among the slow developing countries in the world, based on the high percentage of people living under poor conditions. This study examines the relationship between government health expenditure and economic development in South Africa between 1994 and 2022. Human development index (HDI), government health expenditure (GHE), inflation, population growth, and unemployment are the variables used to investigate this relationship. Auto regressive distributed lag (ARDL) and Granger causality were employed to examine this relationship. Government expenditure on health services and inflation were found to have a positive short-run and long-run relationship with human development index, whereas unemployment and population growth showed a negative relationship with HDI in the long-run. Granger causality results highlighted a unidirectional causality between HDI and GHE in South Africa, among other explanatory variables. HDI Granger causes GHE and vice versa. Continuous increment and monitoring of GHE distribution, to ensure that the growing population receives proper healthcare to boost the life expectancy of the citizens and to fund the preventative measures against health epidemics in South Africa is the policy recommendation to improve HDI in South Africa. Keywords: , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Economics and Financial Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-00
- Authors: Magida, Ngesisa
- Date: 2024-00
- Subjects: Government expenditure on health services
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/10146 , vital:74943
- Description: Economic development relates to economic growth and improvements in the living standards of people. South Africa is ranked among the slow developing countries in the world, based on the high percentage of people living under poor conditions. This study examines the relationship between government health expenditure and economic development in South Africa between 1994 and 2022. Human development index (HDI), government health expenditure (GHE), inflation, population growth, and unemployment are the variables used to investigate this relationship. Auto regressive distributed lag (ARDL) and Granger causality were employed to examine this relationship. Government expenditure on health services and inflation were found to have a positive short-run and long-run relationship with human development index, whereas unemployment and population growth showed a negative relationship with HDI in the long-run. Granger causality results highlighted a unidirectional causality between HDI and GHE in South Africa, among other explanatory variables. HDI Granger causes GHE and vice versa. Continuous increment and monitoring of GHE distribution, to ensure that the growing population receives proper healthcare to boost the life expectancy of the citizens and to fund the preventative measures against health epidemics in South Africa is the policy recommendation to improve HDI in South Africa. Keywords: , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Economics and Financial Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-00
Household food security status and its determinantsin Mthata Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Nodo, Asive
- Date: 2024-00
- Subjects: Food Security
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/10156 , vital:74945
- Description: Food security remains a critical issue worldwide, and South Africa is no exception. This national challenge is especially acute in the Eastern Cape Province, known as one of the poorest regions in the country. The highest rates of poverty are observed in the Eastern Cape Province, with the population largely dependent on social grants to secure their food needs. The primary objective of the study was to examine the household food security status and its determinants in Mthatha, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study was conducted in Tabase and Ncise in Mthatha. The purposive sampling technique was employed in the study and 336 data points were achieved. The study used the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS), developed by the USAID-funded Food and Nutrition Technical Assistance II (FANTA), and leveraged Tobit regression analysis, particularly advantageous for handling censored dependent variables, to examine the determinants of food household food security. The results revealed that gender, age, crops and social grants have no statistical significant relationship with food insecurity. Education, employment status, income, livestock and dietary diversity have a statistical significant relationship with food insecurity. Results further revealed that 40.36% of households were food insecure while 4.22% were food secure, 7.83% were mildly food insecure and 40.36% were severely food insecure. The study recommends the formation of agricultural cooperatives with government support, prioritising education incentives, and strengthening existing food support initiatives. It emphasizes promoting savings clubs and subsidising nutrient-rich foods to enhance accessibility. These multifaceted recommendations aim to address household food security in Mthatha, providing a comprehensive framework for intervention and policy considerations. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Economics and Finacial Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-00
- Authors: Nodo, Asive
- Date: 2024-00
- Subjects: Food Security
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/10156 , vital:74945
- Description: Food security remains a critical issue worldwide, and South Africa is no exception. This national challenge is especially acute in the Eastern Cape Province, known as one of the poorest regions in the country. The highest rates of poverty are observed in the Eastern Cape Province, with the population largely dependent on social grants to secure their food needs. The primary objective of the study was to examine the household food security status and its determinants in Mthatha, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study was conducted in Tabase and Ncise in Mthatha. The purposive sampling technique was employed in the study and 336 data points were achieved. The study used the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS), developed by the USAID-funded Food and Nutrition Technical Assistance II (FANTA), and leveraged Tobit regression analysis, particularly advantageous for handling censored dependent variables, to examine the determinants of food household food security. The results revealed that gender, age, crops and social grants have no statistical significant relationship with food insecurity. Education, employment status, income, livestock and dietary diversity have a statistical significant relationship with food insecurity. Results further revealed that 40.36% of households were food insecure while 4.22% were food secure, 7.83% were mildly food insecure and 40.36% were severely food insecure. The study recommends the formation of agricultural cooperatives with government support, prioritising education incentives, and strengthening existing food support initiatives. It emphasizes promoting savings clubs and subsidising nutrient-rich foods to enhance accessibility. These multifaceted recommendations aim to address household food security in Mthatha, providing a comprehensive framework for intervention and policy considerations. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Economics and Finacial Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-00
Vertical price transmission of wheat in South Africa
- Authors: Swapi, Asemahle
- Date: 2024-00
- Subjects: Commerce
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/11040 , vital:75880
- Description: The ability of markets to communicate food price signals at different levels of marketing chains is critical to understanding the nature of the competition in the chain, and development of strategies to address challengers of information symmetry and food insecurity. This study examined vertical transmission of wheat price among the main value chain, looking at the pricing behaviour of certain role players in the wheat production/supply and distribution of bread which is a major staple food consumed in South Africa. A nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag model (NARDL) model was used to analyse the yearly time series data for the period of 2000 to 2022. The results of the stationarity test showed that all variables were of order one, I(1). The study used two pairs, namely farmgate price and retail price and farmgate price and wholesale price, to examine the existence of asymmetry between these prices, with rainfall and temperature as control variables. The results indicate the existence of positive long-run asymmetry of 35,9% between farmgate price of wheat and retail price of bread, and 3,49% asymmetry between farmgate price and wholesale price of wheat. In order to develop informed policies on food security, this study suggests that the government should enhance regular access to data and sustain its monitoring and communication of food price information across the whole country. The other thing that is recommended by the study is the provision of subsidies for wheat farmers to help the wheat industry, reduce the cost of bread production, and make bread more affordable and accessible for consumers. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Economic and Financial Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-00
- Authors: Swapi, Asemahle
- Date: 2024-00
- Subjects: Commerce
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/11040 , vital:75880
- Description: The ability of markets to communicate food price signals at different levels of marketing chains is critical to understanding the nature of the competition in the chain, and development of strategies to address challengers of information symmetry and food insecurity. This study examined vertical transmission of wheat price among the main value chain, looking at the pricing behaviour of certain role players in the wheat production/supply and distribution of bread which is a major staple food consumed in South Africa. A nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag model (NARDL) model was used to analyse the yearly time series data for the period of 2000 to 2022. The results of the stationarity test showed that all variables were of order one, I(1). The study used two pairs, namely farmgate price and retail price and farmgate price and wholesale price, to examine the existence of asymmetry between these prices, with rainfall and temperature as control variables. The results indicate the existence of positive long-run asymmetry of 35,9% between farmgate price of wheat and retail price of bread, and 3,49% asymmetry between farmgate price and wholesale price of wheat. In order to develop informed policies on food security, this study suggests that the government should enhance regular access to data and sustain its monitoring and communication of food price information across the whole country. The other thing that is recommended by the study is the provision of subsidies for wheat farmers to help the wheat industry, reduce the cost of bread production, and make bread more affordable and accessible for consumers. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Economic and Financial Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-00
Morphometric variation, heavy metal analysis and temperature effects on body weight and stoichiometric ratios (C:N:P) of cerithidea decollata along the Wild Coast, South Africa
- Authors: Fiki, Sinoxolo
- Date: 2023-07
- Subjects: Zoology
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/9388 , vital:73512
- Description: The truncated snail, C e rit hid e a d e c olla t a , is one of the major invertebrates in mangrove ecosystems. It’s the rapid ecophysiological response to environmental stress conditions makes C. decollata an ideal species to test the effects of climate change in mangrove ecosystems. Increased temperatures, due to climate change, is one of the major threats faced by aquatic invertebrates as thermal stress may easily lead to death. This study, thus, compared the effects of 1) environmental conditions on the morphology; 2) temperature on body weight and stoichiometry as well as 3) the heavy metal content of C. decollata across three mangrove ecosystems. Morphometry results revealed that sites significantly influenced most of the shell morphological variables (i.e., shell length, shell width, spire height and aperture width). However, sites did not significantly influence the shell depth and aperture length of C. decollata . Temperature effects on body weight revealed that C. decollata individuals gained weight at low temperatures (10 to 20 °C) in all sites. As a result, the mean % weight gain of 6.75 ± 0.11 in Mngazana, 15.82 ± 0.13 in Mbhashe and 11.2 ± 0.13 in Nqabara. Contrary, C. decollata lost weight at temperatures between 25 and 40 °C across all sites leading to a mean % weight loss of 9.51 ± 0.05 in Mngazana; 14.52 ± 0.16 in Mbhashe and 25.74 ± 0.12 in Nqabara. Stoichiometric analysis revealed that soft tissues had higher nitrogen, carbon and phosphorous than the shells. The NP ratio was higher in soft tissues than in shells while CN and CP ratios were higher in shells than in soft tissues. The N, C, P, CN, CP and NP were lowest in Mngazana and highest in Nqabara. Temperature increases resulted in increased nitrogen, phosphorous, carbon and their stoichiometric CN, CP and NP ratios. Heavy metal results showed that Zn, Cu and Cd were highest in the soft tissue than in the shells and sediment. Contrarily, Fe and Pb were higher in the sediment than in shells and soft tissues. The Cu+Zn was highest in the shells than in the soft tissues and sediment. However, arsenic concentrations were below detection levels across all sites. Overall, no significant site differences were detected for heavy metals. It was, therefore, concluded that sites influenced some of C. decollata morphological features while temperature affected the body weight and stoichiometry of C. decollata . , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Natural Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-07
- Authors: Fiki, Sinoxolo
- Date: 2023-07
- Subjects: Zoology
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/9388 , vital:73512
- Description: The truncated snail, C e rit hid e a d e c olla t a , is one of the major invertebrates in mangrove ecosystems. It’s the rapid ecophysiological response to environmental stress conditions makes C. decollata an ideal species to test the effects of climate change in mangrove ecosystems. Increased temperatures, due to climate change, is one of the major threats faced by aquatic invertebrates as thermal stress may easily lead to death. This study, thus, compared the effects of 1) environmental conditions on the morphology; 2) temperature on body weight and stoichiometry as well as 3) the heavy metal content of C. decollata across three mangrove ecosystems. Morphometry results revealed that sites significantly influenced most of the shell morphological variables (i.e., shell length, shell width, spire height and aperture width). However, sites did not significantly influence the shell depth and aperture length of C. decollata . Temperature effects on body weight revealed that C. decollata individuals gained weight at low temperatures (10 to 20 °C) in all sites. As a result, the mean % weight gain of 6.75 ± 0.11 in Mngazana, 15.82 ± 0.13 in Mbhashe and 11.2 ± 0.13 in Nqabara. Contrary, C. decollata lost weight at temperatures between 25 and 40 °C across all sites leading to a mean % weight loss of 9.51 ± 0.05 in Mngazana; 14.52 ± 0.16 in Mbhashe and 25.74 ± 0.12 in Nqabara. Stoichiometric analysis revealed that soft tissues had higher nitrogen, carbon and phosphorous than the shells. The NP ratio was higher in soft tissues than in shells while CN and CP ratios were higher in shells than in soft tissues. The N, C, P, CN, CP and NP were lowest in Mngazana and highest in Nqabara. Temperature increases resulted in increased nitrogen, phosphorous, carbon and their stoichiometric CN, CP and NP ratios. Heavy metal results showed that Zn, Cu and Cd were highest in the soft tissue than in the shells and sediment. Contrarily, Fe and Pb were higher in the sediment than in shells and soft tissues. The Cu+Zn was highest in the shells than in the soft tissues and sediment. However, arsenic concentrations were below detection levels across all sites. Overall, no significant site differences were detected for heavy metals. It was, therefore, concluded that sites influenced some of C. decollata morphological features while temperature affected the body weight and stoichiometry of C. decollata . , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Natural Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-07
A single centre study evaluating adherence to methotrexate monitoringguidelinesin patients with rheumatoid arthritis
- Authors: Genevieve, Olivier
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Medicine
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/9690 , vital:74612
- Description: Introduction: Methotrexate (MTX) is considered a first-line agent for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and regular blood test monitoring is advised in treatment guidelines to identify potential toxicity. Failure to adhere to monitoring guidelines for methotrexate use may compromise patient care. Identifying and correcting variability in care may optimise the safe use of this medication and improve patient outcomes. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate adherence to guidelines on methotrexate safety monitoring in rheumatoid arthritis patients at an Eastern Cape hospital and to establish whether a dedicated rheumatology outpatient department (OPD) performs this task more effectively than a general medical outpatient department (MOPD). Method: This retrospective cross-sectional single-centre study was conducted at Frere Hospital in the Eastern Cape over one year from 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2019. Adult patients over the age of 18 years who received methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis during the study period and attended either the rheumatology OPD or the MOPD at Frere Hospital were included in the study population. Permission to undertake this study was obtained through the Faculty of Health Sciences Research Ethics and Bio-safety Committee at Walter Sisulu University and the Cecilia Makiwane and Frere Hospitals Research and Ethics Committee. The random sample generator tool on Microsoft Excel was used to select patients from the Frere Hospital Pharmacy Database who was prescribed methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis. Laboratory test results were accessed through the Labtrak system of the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS). The number and type of blood test done as recommended in a South African Methotrexate use guideline by Hodkinson et al, was documented on a data collecting sheet. Two or more blood tests done within a three-to six month period was considered adherent to the guideline. The hospital management system version two (HMS2) was used to see which clinic the patient attended. iii Results: There was 53% adherence (95% Confidence Interval 42-65%) overall to guideline. In the study sample, 64% of patients were from Rheumatology OPD and the remainder were from MOPD. There was 78% (95% CI 62-89%) adherence in the Rheumatology OPD compared to 22% (95% CI 11-38%) in MOPD. No significant association was found between the number of FBC tests and the site of testing (p-value = 0.346) or for Creatinine tests (p-value = 0.078). However, a significant association was found with ALT tests and the site of testing (MOPD or rheumatology OPD) with p-value = 0.010, although this is likely a chance finding. Conclusion: Adherence to a South African guideline for methotrexate safety monitoring was found to be suboptimal at the study centre. Adherence was better in the dedicated Rheumatology OPD compared to a general medical OPD. Education regarding the correct use of guidelines in different health settings by medical professionals is advised. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
- Authors: Genevieve, Olivier
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Medicine
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/9690 , vital:74612
- Description: Introduction: Methotrexate (MTX) is considered a first-line agent for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and regular blood test monitoring is advised in treatment guidelines to identify potential toxicity. Failure to adhere to monitoring guidelines for methotrexate use may compromise patient care. Identifying and correcting variability in care may optimise the safe use of this medication and improve patient outcomes. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate adherence to guidelines on methotrexate safety monitoring in rheumatoid arthritis patients at an Eastern Cape hospital and to establish whether a dedicated rheumatology outpatient department (OPD) performs this task more effectively than a general medical outpatient department (MOPD). Method: This retrospective cross-sectional single-centre study was conducted at Frere Hospital in the Eastern Cape over one year from 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2019. Adult patients over the age of 18 years who received methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis during the study period and attended either the rheumatology OPD or the MOPD at Frere Hospital were included in the study population. Permission to undertake this study was obtained through the Faculty of Health Sciences Research Ethics and Bio-safety Committee at Walter Sisulu University and the Cecilia Makiwane and Frere Hospitals Research and Ethics Committee. The random sample generator tool on Microsoft Excel was used to select patients from the Frere Hospital Pharmacy Database who was prescribed methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis. Laboratory test results were accessed through the Labtrak system of the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS). The number and type of blood test done as recommended in a South African Methotrexate use guideline by Hodkinson et al, was documented on a data collecting sheet. Two or more blood tests done within a three-to six month period was considered adherent to the guideline. The hospital management system version two (HMS2) was used to see which clinic the patient attended. iii Results: There was 53% adherence (95% Confidence Interval 42-65%) overall to guideline. In the study sample, 64% of patients were from Rheumatology OPD and the remainder were from MOPD. There was 78% (95% CI 62-89%) adherence in the Rheumatology OPD compared to 22% (95% CI 11-38%) in MOPD. No significant association was found between the number of FBC tests and the site of testing (p-value = 0.346) or for Creatinine tests (p-value = 0.078). However, a significant association was found with ALT tests and the site of testing (MOPD or rheumatology OPD) with p-value = 0.010, although this is likely a chance finding. Conclusion: Adherence to a South African guideline for methotrexate safety monitoring was found to be suboptimal at the study centre. Adherence was better in the dedicated Rheumatology OPD compared to a general medical OPD. Education regarding the correct use of guidelines in different health settings by medical professionals is advised. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
An audit of patients with new onset stroke and associated barriers to thrombolysis of hyperacute strokesat a tertiary level hospital in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Pasio, Roswyn Claire
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Medicine
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/9891 , vital:74639
- Description: Globally and in South Africa stroke is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. In 2006, the Joint World Congress of Stroke declared stroke a ‘catastrophic illness’ in South Africa. This declaration aims to focus the attention of policymakers on the impact of stroke and engage with them to intervene. Local stroke data is needed to make informed and relevant policy changes. Data is also required to start multi-level initiatives regarding stroke prevention and care. This study aims to analyse the demographic profile of stroke and assess the quality of stroke care using time-based performance measures at Livingstone Tertiary Hospital in the Eastern Cape. Methodology The study is a descriptive, retrospective chart review of patients presenting with an acute stroke to Livingstone Tertiary Hospital Emergency Department over a 12 month period. Demographic data, stroke risk factors, patient comorbidities and mode of transport were collated and analysed. Time parameters were used to ascertain delays within the stroke care pathway of patients and factors precluding patients from thrombolysis were identified. Results The study included 403 eligible patients, 54% of the patients of whom were female. The majority of those were of Mixed-race ethnicity (49%) and aged between 50 and 79 years. Hypertension (71%) was the most common comorbidity followed by smoking (31%) and diabetes mellitus (24%). The median time from onset of symptoms to presentation to hospital was 12 hours 23 minutes (I.Q 20hrs 34min). The average time from arrival to being III seen by a doctor was 1 hour 57 minutes (I.Q 1hr 59min) and the time from arrival to radiological imaging was 17 hours 6 minutes (I.Q. 8hrs 28min). 375 patients had radiological imaging, 58% (n=217) had evidence of an ischaemic stroke compared to 21% (n=80) who had signs of an intracranial haemorrhage. Of the study cohort, 99 (25%) of all stroke patients presented within the 4.5hr thrombolytic window, 68 (32%) of which were ischaemic strokes. However, in-hospital time delays precluded 35% of these patients from thrombolysis. A further 33% of patients had other contraindications to thrombolysis and 32% were not offered thrombolysis based on the clinical discretion of the doctor. Conclusion This study highlights the burden of stroke within Port Elizabeth, located in the Western Region of the Eastern Cape. Risk factor modification and disease control is imperative in reducing the prevalence and impact of stroke. The major precluding factor in stroke patients not being offered thrombolysis is a delay in arrival to hospital. Public education and awareness initiatives need to focus on addressing this issue. The clinical discretion of the treating physician significantly influences the decision to thrombolyse patients with an acute stroke. In-service training can address physicians’ perceptions regarding the benefits of thrombolysis as a treatment option. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences in brach of emergency medicine, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
- Authors: Pasio, Roswyn Claire
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Medicine
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/9891 , vital:74639
- Description: Globally and in South Africa stroke is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. In 2006, the Joint World Congress of Stroke declared stroke a ‘catastrophic illness’ in South Africa. This declaration aims to focus the attention of policymakers on the impact of stroke and engage with them to intervene. Local stroke data is needed to make informed and relevant policy changes. Data is also required to start multi-level initiatives regarding stroke prevention and care. This study aims to analyse the demographic profile of stroke and assess the quality of stroke care using time-based performance measures at Livingstone Tertiary Hospital in the Eastern Cape. Methodology The study is a descriptive, retrospective chart review of patients presenting with an acute stroke to Livingstone Tertiary Hospital Emergency Department over a 12 month period. Demographic data, stroke risk factors, patient comorbidities and mode of transport were collated and analysed. Time parameters were used to ascertain delays within the stroke care pathway of patients and factors precluding patients from thrombolysis were identified. Results The study included 403 eligible patients, 54% of the patients of whom were female. The majority of those were of Mixed-race ethnicity (49%) and aged between 50 and 79 years. Hypertension (71%) was the most common comorbidity followed by smoking (31%) and diabetes mellitus (24%). The median time from onset of symptoms to presentation to hospital was 12 hours 23 minutes (I.Q 20hrs 34min). The average time from arrival to being III seen by a doctor was 1 hour 57 minutes (I.Q 1hr 59min) and the time from arrival to radiological imaging was 17 hours 6 minutes (I.Q. 8hrs 28min). 375 patients had radiological imaging, 58% (n=217) had evidence of an ischaemic stroke compared to 21% (n=80) who had signs of an intracranial haemorrhage. Of the study cohort, 99 (25%) of all stroke patients presented within the 4.5hr thrombolytic window, 68 (32%) of which were ischaemic strokes. However, in-hospital time delays precluded 35% of these patients from thrombolysis. A further 33% of patients had other contraindications to thrombolysis and 32% were not offered thrombolysis based on the clinical discretion of the doctor. Conclusion This study highlights the burden of stroke within Port Elizabeth, located in the Western Region of the Eastern Cape. Risk factor modification and disease control is imperative in reducing the prevalence and impact of stroke. The major precluding factor in stroke patients not being offered thrombolysis is a delay in arrival to hospital. Public education and awareness initiatives need to focus on addressing this issue. The clinical discretion of the treating physician significantly influences the decision to thrombolyse patients with an acute stroke. In-service training can address physicians’ perceptions regarding the benefits of thrombolysis as a treatment option. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences in brach of emergency medicine, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
Appraising the sustainability of groud water quantity and quality
- Authors: Mkosana, Kululwa
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Geography
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/9398 , vital:73516
- Description: South Africa is a semi-arid region that suffers from water scarcity. With a changing climate, incidents such as droughts and human migration will exacerbate the water scarcity already experienced. Thus, the assessment of groundwater quality and quantity is a major step toward ensuring a viable sustainable water argumentation for general use and to serve as one of the most basic needs of human beings. Hence, this study appraises the sustainability of groundwater resource availability and assesses its water quality at the King Sabatha Dalindyebo Local Municipality within the Mthatha River Catchment (MRC). The objectives were to: i) examine the extent of groundwater potential in the area ii) investigate the determinant factors that characterized the groundwater and surface water interaction and assess the impacts of climatic variables on yield iii) compare the physico-chemical and microbial concentration samples collected at different boreholes in the MRC with respect to South African and World Health Organization (WHO) standards and iv) develop the temporal variation trend in modeling the groundwater quality parameters. Using a systematic sampling method, a preliminary survey was carried out to identify the location and selection of the appropriate boreholes’ representation. Thereafter, reconnaissance map and characterisation of the 10 selected borehole's location was made to spatially represent the sites. The water samples were made thrice per site (totally 30 samples). The collected samples were transported to Talbot and Talbot Laboratory, where they were analysed for their physico-chemical and bacteriological parameters using established procedures. Other parameters such as depth of hole, water level, borehole yield, abstraction rate, the screen length, drawdown, morphometry, geological, land-use variables, were generated after rigorous geographical information system (GIS) analysis in QGIS environment and Excel in achieving the study aims. The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model was used for the estimation of the groundwater flow or baseflow drawing strength from the hydraulic conductivity of the aquifer flow (Ksat) (mm/day), sub-basin divide for the groundwater system to the main channel Lgw (m), and the water table height (m). Thereafter, the principal iv component analysis, multiple linear regression analysis, and correlation analysis were used to assess the controlling factors for the spatial variation of recharge in the watershed characteristics and assess the impacts of climatic variables on groundwater yield. The simulated results revealed a mean monthly water yield range of 2.7-14.8 m3/s for groundwater over the study years (2000-2019). The development of temporal variation trend modeling of the physico-chemical composition of the groundwater varied from one borehole to another despite their proximity, thus, making it difficult to generalise the water quality parameters fluctuation. The water quality results showed that the majority of the variables are not within acceptable standards. Ammonia and total coliform levels depict a range between 1.5 mg/l minimum to 10 mg/l maximum with to 1000 counts/mL for total coliform. Also, there was no clear relationship between the location of the boreholes and the borehole yield among the selected samples. However, there was a significant difference between the borehole yield and the risk description matrix for the various water quality parameters. Most of the borehole water quality depicts a non-health aesthetic, acute health, and disinfectant status for the area. Keywords: Water scarcity, groundwater, seasonal variability, aquifer scale , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Natural Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
- Authors: Mkosana, Kululwa
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Geography
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/9398 , vital:73516
- Description: South Africa is a semi-arid region that suffers from water scarcity. With a changing climate, incidents such as droughts and human migration will exacerbate the water scarcity already experienced. Thus, the assessment of groundwater quality and quantity is a major step toward ensuring a viable sustainable water argumentation for general use and to serve as one of the most basic needs of human beings. Hence, this study appraises the sustainability of groundwater resource availability and assesses its water quality at the King Sabatha Dalindyebo Local Municipality within the Mthatha River Catchment (MRC). The objectives were to: i) examine the extent of groundwater potential in the area ii) investigate the determinant factors that characterized the groundwater and surface water interaction and assess the impacts of climatic variables on yield iii) compare the physico-chemical and microbial concentration samples collected at different boreholes in the MRC with respect to South African and World Health Organization (WHO) standards and iv) develop the temporal variation trend in modeling the groundwater quality parameters. Using a systematic sampling method, a preliminary survey was carried out to identify the location and selection of the appropriate boreholes’ representation. Thereafter, reconnaissance map and characterisation of the 10 selected borehole's location was made to spatially represent the sites. The water samples were made thrice per site (totally 30 samples). The collected samples were transported to Talbot and Talbot Laboratory, where they were analysed for their physico-chemical and bacteriological parameters using established procedures. Other parameters such as depth of hole, water level, borehole yield, abstraction rate, the screen length, drawdown, morphometry, geological, land-use variables, were generated after rigorous geographical information system (GIS) analysis in QGIS environment and Excel in achieving the study aims. The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model was used for the estimation of the groundwater flow or baseflow drawing strength from the hydraulic conductivity of the aquifer flow (Ksat) (mm/day), sub-basin divide for the groundwater system to the main channel Lgw (m), and the water table height (m). Thereafter, the principal iv component analysis, multiple linear regression analysis, and correlation analysis were used to assess the controlling factors for the spatial variation of recharge in the watershed characteristics and assess the impacts of climatic variables on groundwater yield. The simulated results revealed a mean monthly water yield range of 2.7-14.8 m3/s for groundwater over the study years (2000-2019). The development of temporal variation trend modeling of the physico-chemical composition of the groundwater varied from one borehole to another despite their proximity, thus, making it difficult to generalise the water quality parameters fluctuation. The water quality results showed that the majority of the variables are not within acceptable standards. Ammonia and total coliform levels depict a range between 1.5 mg/l minimum to 10 mg/l maximum with to 1000 counts/mL for total coliform. Also, there was no clear relationship between the location of the boreholes and the borehole yield among the selected samples. However, there was a significant difference between the borehole yield and the risk description matrix for the various water quality parameters. Most of the borehole water quality depicts a non-health aesthetic, acute health, and disinfectant status for the area. Keywords: Water scarcity, groundwater, seasonal variability, aquifer scale , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Natural Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
Arterial stiffness in pregnant women with preeclampsia and HIV infection at Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital
- Authors: Flatela, Mlungisi
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Medicine
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/9832 , vital:74631
- Description: Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
- Authors: Flatela, Mlungisi
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Medicine
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/9832 , vital:74631
- Description: Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
Attitudes and barriers towards HIV testing services among males aged between 15-49 years at Mzamomhle Township: Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Mantashe, Zintle
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Public Health
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/9753 , vital:74617
- Description: This study delves into the attitudes and obstacles surrounding HIV Testing Services (HTS) among males aged 15 to 49 in Mzamomhle Township, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, South Africa. HIV/AIDS prevalence remains a significant concern, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Employing a mixed-methods approach with questionnaires and interviews, data was gathered from 106 participants. The findings highlight a range of challenges that impede the accessibility of HTS. These challenges include stigma, concerns about privacy, fears related to testing, limited knowledge, and negative attitudes of staff towards HTS. Despite these challenges, the study reveals that participants generally hold positive attitudes towards HTS. However, there are doubts regarding the efficacy of testing in preventing the transmission of HIV. Privacy concerns emerge prominently, with participants fearing that their status might be disclosed. Stigma also acts as a barrier, as individuals fear potential embarrassment if their status becomes known. To address these issues, several recommendations are proposed. These include the establishment of robust support systems, educational campaigns to empower individuals with knowledge about HTS benefits, and community initiatives to combat negative attitudes towards testing. Furthermore, enhancing healthcare worker training and raising political awareness can contribute to creating a more favourable environment for HTS utilisation. By implementing these recommendations, South Africa can work towards dismantling the barriers that hinder HIV testing and promoting a proactive culture of health-seeking behaviour among men. This effort is essential for reducing HIV transmission rates and achieving global health targets. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
- Authors: Mantashe, Zintle
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Public Health
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/9753 , vital:74617
- Description: This study delves into the attitudes and obstacles surrounding HIV Testing Services (HTS) among males aged 15 to 49 in Mzamomhle Township, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, South Africa. HIV/AIDS prevalence remains a significant concern, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Employing a mixed-methods approach with questionnaires and interviews, data was gathered from 106 participants. The findings highlight a range of challenges that impede the accessibility of HTS. These challenges include stigma, concerns about privacy, fears related to testing, limited knowledge, and negative attitudes of staff towards HTS. Despite these challenges, the study reveals that participants generally hold positive attitudes towards HTS. However, there are doubts regarding the efficacy of testing in preventing the transmission of HIV. Privacy concerns emerge prominently, with participants fearing that their status might be disclosed. Stigma also acts as a barrier, as individuals fear potential embarrassment if their status becomes known. To address these issues, several recommendations are proposed. These include the establishment of robust support systems, educational campaigns to empower individuals with knowledge about HTS benefits, and community initiatives to combat negative attitudes towards testing. Furthermore, enhancing healthcare worker training and raising political awareness can contribute to creating a more favourable environment for HTS utilisation. By implementing these recommendations, South Africa can work towards dismantling the barriers that hinder HIV testing and promoting a proactive culture of health-seeking behaviour among men. This effort is essential for reducing HIV transmission rates and achieving global health targets. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
Critical analysis of the role played by izidlalo zabafazi in amaXhosa women’s psycho-socio health
- Authors: Wayise, Siphenkosi
- Date: 2023-00
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/10913 , vital:75665
- Description: African tribes have found that traditional songs are one of the most crucial factors in fostering cohesion, solidarity and communication between physical and non-physical entities as well as knowledge of culture and cultural activities. Traditional women's songs, or izidlalo zabafazi, are amongst the most potent tools utilized by the AmaXhosa tribe. Women mostly use these songs to communicate their emotions about various situations. Before Westernization had an impact, women used izidlalo zabafazi to talk about and deal with terrible times and challenging circumstances, such as verbal, emotional, physical and all other forms of abuse experienced by them. This indicates that these songs were especially important in providing a platform for women to express themselves by singing, acting and reacting to their many struggles. Since women today also experience many difficulties, particularly those that have an emotional impact on them, this prompted the researcher to investigate whether the significance of these songs can be exposed as a traditional platform where women can express themselves about their marital matters and be viewed as traditional therapeutic systems to be used by AmaXhosa women even in our day and age. The study employs two theoretical frameworks to accomplish this investigation: the psychoanalytic theory, which examines the psychological effects of izidlalo zabafazi on amaXhosa women; and the African feminism theory, which emphasizes the equalization of power and authority between the sexes and asserts that women should not be subservient to men and that they have a voice, even in patriarchal societies. Using a textual analysis approach, a selection of songs from various available sources, including books, papers, YouTube, tik-tok and Facebook, have been examined. Their therapeutic effect has unraveled the influence on the psychological well-being of women. The study indicates that it is highly effective in promoting mental recuperation, especially for adherents of izidlalo zabafazi. This has led to the notion that izidlalo zabafazi have an impact on the psychological well-being of amaXhosa women. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Law, Humanities and Social Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
- Authors: Wayise, Siphenkosi
- Date: 2023-00
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/10913 , vital:75665
- Description: African tribes have found that traditional songs are one of the most crucial factors in fostering cohesion, solidarity and communication between physical and non-physical entities as well as knowledge of culture and cultural activities. Traditional women's songs, or izidlalo zabafazi, are amongst the most potent tools utilized by the AmaXhosa tribe. Women mostly use these songs to communicate their emotions about various situations. Before Westernization had an impact, women used izidlalo zabafazi to talk about and deal with terrible times and challenging circumstances, such as verbal, emotional, physical and all other forms of abuse experienced by them. This indicates that these songs were especially important in providing a platform for women to express themselves by singing, acting and reacting to their many struggles. Since women today also experience many difficulties, particularly those that have an emotional impact on them, this prompted the researcher to investigate whether the significance of these songs can be exposed as a traditional platform where women can express themselves about their marital matters and be viewed as traditional therapeutic systems to be used by AmaXhosa women even in our day and age. The study employs two theoretical frameworks to accomplish this investigation: the psychoanalytic theory, which examines the psychological effects of izidlalo zabafazi on amaXhosa women; and the African feminism theory, which emphasizes the equalization of power and authority between the sexes and asserts that women should not be subservient to men and that they have a voice, even in patriarchal societies. Using a textual analysis approach, a selection of songs from various available sources, including books, papers, YouTube, tik-tok and Facebook, have been examined. Their therapeutic effect has unraveled the influence on the psychological well-being of women. The study indicates that it is highly effective in promoting mental recuperation, especially for adherents of izidlalo zabafazi. This has led to the notion that izidlalo zabafazi have an impact on the psychological well-being of amaXhosa women. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Law, Humanities and Social Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
Effects of the timing of initiation of maternal anti-retroviral therapy, cd4 count and viral load on birth out comes in South Africa
- Authors: Siqithi, Sisanda
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Medicine
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/9849 , vital:74633
- Description: Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
- Authors: Siqithi, Sisanda
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Medicine
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/9849 , vital:74633
- Description: Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
Exploring teachers’ classroom management strategies to enhance teaching and learning in Gauteng Province
- Authors: Mamaila, Dineo
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Education
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/10556 , vital:75187
- Description: Classroom management strategies in teaching and learning are still a challenge in most high schools. The study investigates how classroom management strategies can be enhanced towards effective teaching and learning in Gauteng Province, South Africa. The research is lenses within an interpretive paradigm and was conducted using a qualitative approach, and a case study research design was employed. The study employed purposive sampling to select relevant participants from high schools. The participants consisted of twelve teachers from three chosen schools in Gauteng Province in the Ekurhuleni North District. Each school had four teachers as participants, making a total of twelve participants. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to elicit information from the participants. Content analysis was applied to analyze and evaluate the data from the conducted semi-structured interviews. The findings were as follows: teachers' ineffectiveness affects classroom management, especially when there is a lack of planning, poor time management, and poor relationship between the learners and teachers. It is suggested that teachers need to take charge of knowing what roles to play, such as being the controller, assessor, and organizer in the classroom setting. Recommendations were made to address the implementation of classroom management strategies in the classroom, whereby active teaching and learning need to take place in the schools. Therefore, it is possible for teachers to successfully implement classroom management by always being flexible, such as being able to read the classroom environment, implementing necessary discipline measures without attracting attention to themselves or interrupting the class session, and prioritizing professionalism always. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Education, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
- Authors: Mamaila, Dineo
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Education
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/10556 , vital:75187
- Description: Classroom management strategies in teaching and learning are still a challenge in most high schools. The study investigates how classroom management strategies can be enhanced towards effective teaching and learning in Gauteng Province, South Africa. The research is lenses within an interpretive paradigm and was conducted using a qualitative approach, and a case study research design was employed. The study employed purposive sampling to select relevant participants from high schools. The participants consisted of twelve teachers from three chosen schools in Gauteng Province in the Ekurhuleni North District. Each school had four teachers as participants, making a total of twelve participants. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to elicit information from the participants. Content analysis was applied to analyze and evaluate the data from the conducted semi-structured interviews. The findings were as follows: teachers' ineffectiveness affects classroom management, especially when there is a lack of planning, poor time management, and poor relationship between the learners and teachers. It is suggested that teachers need to take charge of knowing what roles to play, such as being the controller, assessor, and organizer in the classroom setting. Recommendations were made to address the implementation of classroom management strategies in the classroom, whereby active teaching and learning need to take place in the schools. Therefore, it is possible for teachers to successfully implement classroom management by always being flexible, such as being able to read the classroom environment, implementing necessary discipline measures without attracting attention to themselves or interrupting the class session, and prioritizing professionalism always. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Education, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
Health capital and labour productivity in selected Southern African Development Community (SADC) Countries
- Authors: Mafunda, Lihle Andiswa
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Masters of commerce
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/10116 , vital:74937
- Description: Health plays a critical role in economic development, as it directly affects productivity and ultimately leads to higher per capita income. Within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries, health capital has immense significance for labour productivity, serving as a catalyst for growth. This study investigated the relationship between health capital and labour productivity in selected SADC countries from 2000 to 2020, with the chosen period primarily based on data availability and coverage for the selected countries during this timeframe. To accomplish this, the study employed the panel autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) models and techniques, which leverage the advantages of panel data and ARDL models, enabling the analysis of both short-run and long-run relationships, providing a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics between variables over time. The data for the study period was obtained from a single reliable source, The Global Economy, ensuring credibility. The primary finding from the pooled mean group (PMG) estimator indicates a positive and significant relationship between health capital and labour productivity in the short run, suggesting that investments in healthcare can boost productivity. However, contrary to the expected theory and prior assumptions, the long-run findings reveal a negative and significant relationship. This discrepancy highlights the complexity of the health-productivity relationship and necessitates further investigation to comprehend the underlying mechanisms and design effective policy interventions. Policymakers must carefully consider these mixed findings and tailor their strategies accordingly to promote both health and productivity in the long term. It is crucial to strike a balance between immediate gains and sustainable long-term outcomes. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Economics and Financial Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
- Authors: Mafunda, Lihle Andiswa
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Masters of commerce
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/10116 , vital:74937
- Description: Health plays a critical role in economic development, as it directly affects productivity and ultimately leads to higher per capita income. Within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries, health capital has immense significance for labour productivity, serving as a catalyst for growth. This study investigated the relationship between health capital and labour productivity in selected SADC countries from 2000 to 2020, with the chosen period primarily based on data availability and coverage for the selected countries during this timeframe. To accomplish this, the study employed the panel autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) models and techniques, which leverage the advantages of panel data and ARDL models, enabling the analysis of both short-run and long-run relationships, providing a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics between variables over time. The data for the study period was obtained from a single reliable source, The Global Economy, ensuring credibility. The primary finding from the pooled mean group (PMG) estimator indicates a positive and significant relationship between health capital and labour productivity in the short run, suggesting that investments in healthcare can boost productivity. However, contrary to the expected theory and prior assumptions, the long-run findings reveal a negative and significant relationship. This discrepancy highlights the complexity of the health-productivity relationship and necessitates further investigation to comprehend the underlying mechanisms and design effective policy interventions. Policymakers must carefully consider these mixed findings and tailor their strategies accordingly to promote both health and productivity in the long term. It is crucial to strike a balance between immediate gains and sustainable long-term outcomes. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Economics and Financial Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
Infuence of green marketing mix on sustainable consumption and customer loyalty in Polokwane, South Africa
- Authors: Chiwenga, Lillian
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Retail Green Marketing
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/9948 , vital:74929
- Description: Marketers throughout all industries are investing enormously towards developing and promoting green products and the retail sector is not exempted from this growing trend. The study aimed to investigate the influence of green marketing mix elements (green product, green price, green promotion and green distribution or place) on sustainable consumption and customer loyalty. To achieve the objective, the research study employed a positivist research paradigm anchored by a quantitative approach using descriptive research design. A structured self-administered survey questionnaire was randomly distributed to retail customers of a sample size of 265 respondents. The data was analysed using SPSS for descriptive statistics and Smart PLS for Structural equation modelling. The key findings reveal that all five hypothesised relationships are positive, however, only four are significant. The strongest relationship was found between sustainable consumption and customer loyalty (β=0.432) while the weakest (yet positive) relationship was between green place and sustainable consumption (β=0.078). The study equips the retailers about the key predictors of consumers’ green sustainable consumption behaviour enabling them to tailor their product offerings and formulate marketing strategies to encourage green buying behaviour. The current study can further assists policymakers to ground their discussions when developing regulations that govern how retail industries should promote, price and distribute their green products. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Economics and financial Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
- Authors: Chiwenga, Lillian
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Retail Green Marketing
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/9948 , vital:74929
- Description: Marketers throughout all industries are investing enormously towards developing and promoting green products and the retail sector is not exempted from this growing trend. The study aimed to investigate the influence of green marketing mix elements (green product, green price, green promotion and green distribution or place) on sustainable consumption and customer loyalty. To achieve the objective, the research study employed a positivist research paradigm anchored by a quantitative approach using descriptive research design. A structured self-administered survey questionnaire was randomly distributed to retail customers of a sample size of 265 respondents. The data was analysed using SPSS for descriptive statistics and Smart PLS for Structural equation modelling. The key findings reveal that all five hypothesised relationships are positive, however, only four are significant. The strongest relationship was found between sustainable consumption and customer loyalty (β=0.432) while the weakest (yet positive) relationship was between green place and sustainable consumption (β=0.078). The study equips the retailers about the key predictors of consumers’ green sustainable consumption behaviour enabling them to tailor their product offerings and formulate marketing strategies to encourage green buying behaviour. The current study can further assists policymakers to ground their discussions when developing regulations that govern how retail industries should promote, price and distribute their green products. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Economics and financial Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
Investigating the determinants of economics growth in South Africa
- Authors: Dudumashe, Nomsindisi
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Economic growth determinants in South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/9986 , vital:74931
- Description: Economic growth is regarded as one of the prime macroeconomic objectives of any economy. The study aimed to investigate the determinants of economic growth in South Africa for the period 1994 to 2021 using yearly data obtained from World Bank and IMF. The analysis of all the variables has been provided to show the relationship that the variables have with economic growth in the South African economy. The independent variables used were capital stock, financial development, employment and inflation. In achieving this aim, an Autoregressive Distributive Lag (ARDL) was used since it examines both the short-term and the long-term dynamics of the determinants of economic growth. In addition, Granger causality was used to determine whether the explored variables were causally related to one another. In the long run, the results point out that financial development was significant at 5%, while capital stock and employment were significant at 10%. In the short run, all variables were significant at 1%. The study recommends employment stimulation, investment in capital stock and financial development in order to boost economic growth. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Economics and Financial Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
- Authors: Dudumashe, Nomsindisi
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Economic growth determinants in South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/9986 , vital:74931
- Description: Economic growth is regarded as one of the prime macroeconomic objectives of any economy. The study aimed to investigate the determinants of economic growth in South Africa for the period 1994 to 2021 using yearly data obtained from World Bank and IMF. The analysis of all the variables has been provided to show the relationship that the variables have with economic growth in the South African economy. The independent variables used were capital stock, financial development, employment and inflation. In achieving this aim, an Autoregressive Distributive Lag (ARDL) was used since it examines both the short-term and the long-term dynamics of the determinants of economic growth. In addition, Granger causality was used to determine whether the explored variables were causally related to one another. In the long run, the results point out that financial development was significant at 5%, while capital stock and employment were significant at 10%. In the short run, all variables were significant at 1%. The study recommends employment stimulation, investment in capital stock and financial development in order to boost economic growth. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Economics and Financial Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
Load shedding and performance of small-scale resturants in Mthatha, South Africa
- Authors: Matangayi, Lelethu
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Economics and commerce
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/10346 , vital:74969
- Description: Small businesses in South Africa are recognized for creating jobs and increasing economic growth. Ever since South Africa experienced load shedding in 2008, small businesses, especially those in the restaurant sector, have been hugely affected by load shedding as they heavily rely on electricity for most of their business operations. Load shedding results in a loss of sales and a decrease in productivity, which reduces their profitability and eventually, sustainability. The purpose of the study was to establish the extent to which load shedding affects the performance of small-scale restaurants in Mthatha, South Africa. A positivist research paradigm was adopted for the study, which was anchored on a quantitative approach using an explanatory research design. A fully structured self-administered questionnaire was sent to 53 small-scale restaurant owners or managers and 51 responded. Data analyzed using SmartPLS4 revealed that load shedding has a negative but insignificant impact on both the profitability and productivity of small-scale restaurants. Based on the results load shedding does not impact the performance of small-scale restaurants in Mthatha as both performance proxies showed a statistically insignificant impact. Looking at the current situation of electricity in South Africa, things are getting worse as it is common for Mthatha people to go the entire day without electricity. This study helps in identifying the extent of the effects load shedding has on small-scale restaurants. This study adds to the findings of prior research on the effects of load shedding on the performance of small-scale restaurants and the study contributed to the body of iii knowledge on the effects of load shedding on the performance of small-scale restaurants and mitigates on existing literature gap where the populace is not aware of the extent to which load shedding has affected the performance of small-scale restaurants. , Faculty of Economics and Financial Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
- Authors: Matangayi, Lelethu
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Economics and commerce
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/10346 , vital:74969
- Description: Small businesses in South Africa are recognized for creating jobs and increasing economic growth. Ever since South Africa experienced load shedding in 2008, small businesses, especially those in the restaurant sector, have been hugely affected by load shedding as they heavily rely on electricity for most of their business operations. Load shedding results in a loss of sales and a decrease in productivity, which reduces their profitability and eventually, sustainability. The purpose of the study was to establish the extent to which load shedding affects the performance of small-scale restaurants in Mthatha, South Africa. A positivist research paradigm was adopted for the study, which was anchored on a quantitative approach using an explanatory research design. A fully structured self-administered questionnaire was sent to 53 small-scale restaurant owners or managers and 51 responded. Data analyzed using SmartPLS4 revealed that load shedding has a negative but insignificant impact on both the profitability and productivity of small-scale restaurants. Based on the results load shedding does not impact the performance of small-scale restaurants in Mthatha as both performance proxies showed a statistically insignificant impact. Looking at the current situation of electricity in South Africa, things are getting worse as it is common for Mthatha people to go the entire day without electricity. This study helps in identifying the extent of the effects load shedding has on small-scale restaurants. This study adds to the findings of prior research on the effects of load shedding on the performance of small-scale restaurants and the study contributed to the body of iii knowledge on the effects of load shedding on the performance of small-scale restaurants and mitigates on existing literature gap where the populace is not aware of the extent to which load shedding has affected the performance of small-scale restaurants. , Faculty of Economics and Financial Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
Monitoring strategies used for teaching and learning in selected scondary schoolsof OR Thambo Inland Education District, Eastern Cape Provice, South Africa
- Tswane, Patience Nomampondomise
- Authors: Tswane, Patience Nomampondomise
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Monitoring strategies
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/10769 , vital:75218
- Description: This study was meant to investigate monitoring strategies used for teaching and learning in selected secondary schools of OR Tambo Inland Education District in Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study mainly concentrated on collecting the analysed data from principals, deputy principals and heads of departments of secondary schools of Qumbu magisterial district on the basis of my proximity to their schools. A case study research design was adopted as only principals, deputy principals and HODs officially employed by the Department of Education to teach in geographically located secondary schools in Qumbu magisterial district were used as subjects to collect data. The qualitative research approach was employed in this study. A sample of 15 participants who were chosen using purposive sampling were interviewed face-to-face adopting semi-structured interviews to gather data for this study. The findings supported SMTs' use of monitoring curriculum implementation methodologies, but their actual implementation was characterised by a lack of rigour and decisiveness. Evidently, a number of contextual circumstances influenced to what extent the methods that had been decided upon were carried out. It emerged that in some SMTs’ strategies to manage and monitor the quality of teaching and learning in their secondary schools, teacher unions disrupts such systems. This implies that the teacher unions play a detrimental role in limiting effective intervention strategies by management. As long as teacher unions plays a powerful role in tying the hands of management in quality control oversight, management will find it very difficult to make inroads into improving commitment by teachers and progress of learners. The Department of Basic Education and government need to review and revise the powers of teacher unions. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Education, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
- Authors: Tswane, Patience Nomampondomise
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Monitoring strategies
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/10769 , vital:75218
- Description: This study was meant to investigate monitoring strategies used for teaching and learning in selected secondary schools of OR Tambo Inland Education District in Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study mainly concentrated on collecting the analysed data from principals, deputy principals and heads of departments of secondary schools of Qumbu magisterial district on the basis of my proximity to their schools. A case study research design was adopted as only principals, deputy principals and HODs officially employed by the Department of Education to teach in geographically located secondary schools in Qumbu magisterial district were used as subjects to collect data. The qualitative research approach was employed in this study. A sample of 15 participants who were chosen using purposive sampling were interviewed face-to-face adopting semi-structured interviews to gather data for this study. The findings supported SMTs' use of monitoring curriculum implementation methodologies, but their actual implementation was characterised by a lack of rigour and decisiveness. Evidently, a number of contextual circumstances influenced to what extent the methods that had been decided upon were carried out. It emerged that in some SMTs’ strategies to manage and monitor the quality of teaching and learning in their secondary schools, teacher unions disrupts such systems. This implies that the teacher unions play a detrimental role in limiting effective intervention strategies by management. As long as teacher unions plays a powerful role in tying the hands of management in quality control oversight, management will find it very difficult to make inroads into improving commitment by teachers and progress of learners. The Department of Basic Education and government need to review and revise the powers of teacher unions. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Education, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
Natural resource rents and public debt in selected resource in rich Sub-Saharan AfricanCountries
- Authors: Chizengeya, Elisha
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Rents and Public debt
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/9970 , vital:74930
- Description: Many Sub-Saharan African countries are endowed with natural resources and yet their public debts are keeping on ballooning. The skyrocketing of these debts can cause a public debt crisis which can further bite on the poor who are already living miserable lives in resource-rich countries. This study examines the impact of natural resource rents on public debt in Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries from 2000 to 2020, utilising the panel ARDL technique. The main objective of this research work was to investigate the relationship between natural resource rents and public debt in selected resource-rich Sub-Saharan African countries. The panel ARDL technique employed in this study strengthens the analysis by considering both short-run and long-run dynamics. In the short run, a significant and negative relationship is observed between natural resource rents and public debt, aligning with the theoretical expectations of resource-rich economies benefiting from increased revenues. However, in the long run, a contrasting pattern emerges, indicating that natural resource rents contribute to an increase in public debt, highlighting the challenges associated with the resource curse phenomenon. The empirical analysis reveals noteworthy findings with implications for theory, practice, and policy. The findings underscore the need for careful fiscal management and prudent policies in resource-rich countries to avoid excessive debt accumulation over the long term. This highlights the importance of implementing effective governance mechanisms, transparency, and accountability frameworks to manage natural resource revenues responsibly. In conclusion, this study contributes to the understanding of the relationship between natural resource rents and public debt in SSA countries. It emphasizes the importance of balancing short-term fiscal benefits with long-term sustainability and provides valuable insights for policymakers to design and implement effective resource management strategies. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Economics and Financial Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00
- Authors: Chizengeya, Elisha
- Date: 2023-00
- Subjects: Rents and Public debt
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/9970 , vital:74930
- Description: Many Sub-Saharan African countries are endowed with natural resources and yet their public debts are keeping on ballooning. The skyrocketing of these debts can cause a public debt crisis which can further bite on the poor who are already living miserable lives in resource-rich countries. This study examines the impact of natural resource rents on public debt in Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries from 2000 to 2020, utilising the panel ARDL technique. The main objective of this research work was to investigate the relationship between natural resource rents and public debt in selected resource-rich Sub-Saharan African countries. The panel ARDL technique employed in this study strengthens the analysis by considering both short-run and long-run dynamics. In the short run, a significant and negative relationship is observed between natural resource rents and public debt, aligning with the theoretical expectations of resource-rich economies benefiting from increased revenues. However, in the long run, a contrasting pattern emerges, indicating that natural resource rents contribute to an increase in public debt, highlighting the challenges associated with the resource curse phenomenon. The empirical analysis reveals noteworthy findings with implications for theory, practice, and policy. The findings underscore the need for careful fiscal management and prudent policies in resource-rich countries to avoid excessive debt accumulation over the long term. This highlights the importance of implementing effective governance mechanisms, transparency, and accountability frameworks to manage natural resource revenues responsibly. In conclusion, this study contributes to the understanding of the relationship between natural resource rents and public debt in SSA countries. It emphasizes the importance of balancing short-term fiscal benefits with long-term sustainability and provides valuable insights for policymakers to design and implement effective resource management strategies. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Economics and Financial Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-00