Bioactivity and phytochemical analysis of Hydnora Africana on some selected bacterial pathogens
- Authors: Nethathe, Bono Bianca
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Helicobacter pylori , Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Microbial sensitivity tests , Herbs -- Therapeutic use -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Plants -- Analysis , Staphylococcus aureus , Aeromonas hydrophila , Drug resistance in microorganisms , Plant-pathogen relationships
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Microbiology)
- Identifier: vital:11247 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1001063 , Helicobacter pylori , Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Microbial sensitivity tests , Herbs -- Therapeutic use -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Plants -- Analysis , Staphylococcus aureus , Aeromonas hydrophila , Drug resistance in microorganisms , Plant-pathogen relationships
- Description: Abstract Medicinal plants have been for long remedies for human diseases because they contain components of therapeutic value. The growing problem of antibiotic resistance by organisms demands the search for novel compounds from plant based sources. The present study was aimed at evaluating the bioactivity and phytochemical analysis of Hydnora africana on clinical and standard strains of Helicobacter pylori (PE 252C and ATCC 43526), Aeromonas hydrophila ATCC 35654, and Staphylococcus aureus NCT 6571 in an effort to identify potential sources of cheap starting materials for the synthesis of new drugs against these strains. Ethyl acetate, acetone, ethanol, methanol, and water crude extracts of H. africana were screened for activity against the test organisms using the agar well diffusion assay. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC50) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) of the most potent extracts were determined by the microdilution method, followed by qualitative phytochemical analysis. Results were analyzed statistically by ANOVA one - way test. Different concentrations (200,100, 50mg/mL) of the methanol, acetone, ethanol and ethyl acetate extracts showed activity against S. aureus and A. hydrophila while for H. pylori, only methanol and ethyl acetate extracts were active; water showed no activity for all studied bacterial pathogens. Mean zone diameter of inhibition which ranged from 0-22mm were observed for all test bacterial pathogens and 14-17mm for ciprofloxacin. The activity of methanol and ethyl acetate extracts were statistically significant (P< 0.05) compared to all the other extracts. MIC50 and MBC ranged from 0.078 – 2.5mg/mL, 0.78-25mg/mL respectively for all tested bacterial pathogens. For ciprofloxacin, the MIC50 and MBC ranged from 0.00976 – 0.078mg/mL and 0.098– 0.78mg/mL respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between extracts (methanol, acetone, ethanol, ethyl acetate) and the control antibiotic (ciprofloxacin) (P> 0.05). Qualitative phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, steroids, tannins and flavonoids in the methanol, acetone,ethanol and ethyl acetate extracts. The results demonstrate that H. africana may contain compounds with therapeutic potentials which can be lead molecules for semi-synthesis of new drugs.
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- Date Issued: 2011
Biomechanical, physiological and perceptual responses of three different athlete groups to the cycle-run transition
- Authors: Cripwell, Devin Matthew
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Biomechanics -- Research , Human mechanics -- Research , Cycling -- Physiological aspects -- Research , Running -- Physiological aspects -- Research , Exercise -- Physiological aspects -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5106 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005184 , Biomechanics -- Research , Human mechanics -- Research , Cycling -- Physiological aspects -- Research , Running -- Physiological aspects -- Research , Exercise -- Physiological aspects -- Research
- Description: The transition from cycling to running has been identified as one of the key determinants of success in triathlon, as it has been suggested that the cycle may affect subsequent running efficiency such that running performance is significantly altered or reduced. It is also suggested that athletes more adapted to the transition itself, rather than purely running or cycling, may be more efficient during the post-cycle running bout. The current study sought to investigate the effects of prior cycling on subsequent selected biomechanical, physiological and perceptual responses of three different athlete groups. Subjects were selected on the basis of their sporting background, and were divided into three groups – triathletes, cyclists and runners. Experimentation required subjects to perform a seven minute treadmill running protocol at 15km.h⁻¹, during which biomechanical (EMG, Stride rate, Stride length, Vertical acceleration), physiological (HR, VO₂, EE) and perceptual (RPE) responses were recorded. After resting, subjects were required to perform a twenty minute stationary cycle at 70% of maximal aerobic power (previously determined), immediately followed by a second seven minute treadmill running protocol during which the same data were collected and compared to those collected during the first run. Biomechanical responses indicate that the cycle protocol had no effect on the muscle activity or vertical acceleration responses of any of the three subject groups, while the triathlete group significantly altered their gait responses in order to preserve running economy. The triathlete group was the least affected when considering the physiological responses, as running economy was preserved for this group. The runner and cyclist groups were significantly affected by the transition, as running economy decreased significantly for these groups. Perceptual responses indicate that athletes more experienced with the transition may find the transition from cycling to running to be easier than those inexperienced in this transition. It is apparent that a high intensity cycle protocol has limited statistical impact on selected biomechanical responses, while physiological and perceptual responses were altered, during a subsequent run, regardless of athlete type. That said, the ability of transition-trained athletes to transition comfortably between disciplines was highlighted, which may have important performance implications.
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- Date Issued: 2011
Bluetooth audio and video streaming on the J2ME platform
- Authors: Sahd, Curtis Lee
- Date: 2011 , 2010-09-09
- Subjects: Bluetooth technology , Mobile communication systems , Communication -- Technological innovations , Communication -- Network analysis , Wireless communication systems , L2TP (Computer network protocol) , Computer network protocols , Streaming audio , Streaming video
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4633 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006521 , Bluetooth technology , Mobile communication systems , Communication -- Technological innovations , Communication -- Network analysis , Wireless communication systems , L2TP (Computer network protocol) , Computer network protocols , Streaming audio , Streaming video
- Description: With the increase in bandwidth, more widespread distribution of media, and increased capability of mobile devices, multimedia streaming has not only become feasible, but more economical in terms of space occupied by the media file and the costs involved in attaining it. Although much attention has been paid to peer to peer media streaming over the Internet using HTTP and RTSP, little research has focussed on the use of the Bluetooth protocol for streaming audio and video between mobile devices. This project investigates the feasibility of Bluetooth as a protocol for audio and video streaming between mobile phones using the J2ME platform, through the analysis of Bluetooth protocols, media formats, optimum packet sizes, and the effects of distance on transfer speed. A comparison was made between RFCOMM and L2CAP to determine which protocol could support the fastest transfer speed between two mobile devices. The L2CAP protocol proved to be the most suitable, providing average transfer rates of 136.17 KBps. Using this protocol a second experiment was undertaken to determine the most suitable media format for streaming in terms of: file size, bandwidth usage, quality, and ease of implementation. Out of the eight media formats investigated, the MP3 format provided the smallest file size, smallest bandwidth usage, best quality and highest ease of implementation. Another experiment was conducted to determine the optimum packet size for transfer between devices. A tradeoff was found between packet size and the quality of the sound file, with highest transfer rates being recorded with the MTU size of 668 bytes (136.58 KBps). The class of Bluetooth transmitter typically used in mobile devices (class 2) is considered a weak signal and is adversely affected by distance. As such, the final investigation that was undertaken was aimed at determining the effects of distance on audio streaming and playback. As can be expected, when devices were situated close to each other, the transfer speeds obtained were higher than when devices were far apart. Readings were taken at varying distances (1-15 metres), with erratic transfer speeds observed from 7 metres onwards. This research showed that audio streaming on the J2ME platform is feasible, however using the currently available class of Bluetooth transmitter, video streaming is not feasible. Video files were only playable once the entire media file had been transferred.
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- Date Issued: 2011
Brand loyalty in the South African tyre industry
- Authors: Stewart, Russel
- Date: 2011
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8796 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015983
- Description: The tyre industry plays an important role in the concept of mobility. Mobility defines the human need for transportation, which has been growing at an accelerated pace since the dawn of the nineteenth century. More importantly, modern mobility cannot be achieved without the use of a pneumatic tyre, a commodity that has become increasingly complex and competitive with countless brands and products available on a global scale. In order to stand out in this competitive market landscape, big brands attempt to build an amount of brand awareness within the market place, while maintaining a balance in creating a demand for their product in pull marketing strategies. While the market place becomes increasingly competitive on a both a global and local level, tyre brands are all trying various tactics in an effort to secure wheel positions on consumer’s vehicles. Within the marketing mix there are various strategies and tactics that can be adopted by tyre brands to secure a share of voice within the mind of the consumer when the need arises for new tyres, however in South Africa, only the established brands have the spending power to employ traditional media space in an effort to communicate with the consumer. It has also become increasingly difficult for established brands to remain dominant within the decision journey of consumers, especially when the retailer has the final contact with the consumer and may be promoting the purchase of a tyre brands that results in higher margins that the brand originally requested by the consumer. The tyre industry plays an important role in the concept of mobility. Mobility defines the human need for transportation, which has been growing at an accelerated pace since the dawn of the nineteenth century. More importantly, modern mobility cannot be achieved without the use of a pneumatic tyre, a commodity that has become increasingly complex and competitive with countless brands and products available on a global scale. In order to stand out in this competitive market landscape, big brands attempt to build an amount of brand awareness within the market place, while maintaining a balance in creating a demand for their product in pull marketing strategies. While the market place becomes increasingly competitive on a both a global and local level, tyre brands are all trying various tactics in an effort to secure wheel positions on consumer’s vehicles. Within the marketing mix there are various strategies and tactics that can be adopted by tyre brands to secure a share of voice within the mind of the consumer when the need arises for new tyres, however in South Africa, only the established brands have the spending power to employ traditional media space in an effort to communicate with the consumer. It has also become increasingly difficult for established brands to remain dominant within the decision journey of consumers, especially when the retailer has the final contact with the consumer and may be promoting the purchase of a tyre brands that results in higher margins that the brand originally requested by the consumer. The questions that remain are; do retailers have a high degree of influence on consumer behaviour or are high levels of brand awareness enough for a brand owner to be assured of a consistent demand on their product? This research aims to validate the interdependence of brand awareness and retailer influence on the consumer decision journey within the South African tyre industry. The research starts by setting the scene within the global and local tyre industry through the use of the Continental Corporation for illustration purposes. Once the scene is set in terms of the industry in which the research is taking place, brand theory is exhaustively discussed providing relevance and context within the tyre industry. Within the discussion of brand equity, the consumer decision journey and touch points are introduced as process and influence before the final purchase is made. With the theory of the tyre industry and branding covered, qualitative fieldwork was undertaken by two researchers at a tyre retail group in Tswane, South Africa. The fieldwork consisted of questionnaires that needed to be completed by consumers who had just concluded their purchase decision and were waiting in the retailer for the work to be concluded on their vehicle. The results of the fieldwork are extensively analysed and discussed upon which conclusions and recommendations for future research are drawn. The sample attained is sufficient for qualitative analysis; however the conclusions need to be read within the context of the sample size and geographical location in which the research was conducted. Further context was provided from the retail store owner who provided expert comment and insight based on experience within the industry and retail environment. The comment was utilised along with the theory to either validate or disprove findings, which formed the basis for recommendations for future research.
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- Date Issued: 2011
Building employee value proposition for attracting and retaining talent in large organisations in South Africa
- Authors: Chen, Shih-hwa James
- Date: 2011
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9121 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1016056
- Description: Globalisation of businesses and the advancement of information technology have changed the way employees think, live and behave. As a result, some of the traditional theories and models on talent management have been tested, and to some extent, challenged. Companies large and small must be creative, responsive and ready to let go outdated management practices when challenged by new paradigms to improve competitiveness and alignment to market needs. In the current climate of widespread skill shortages and declining workforce numbers, large organisations continue to wrestle with appropriate management practices that could truly protect their most valuable asset – its people. This research was aimed at providing an insight into what makes a good attraction and retention strategy for large organisations in South Africa. It further examined the principles which underpin an effective employee value proposition that would capture comprehensively the expectations, personal needs and career goals of the new generation employees especially in a developing economy. Quantitative data focusing on students‘ expectations on their future employer of choice was collected via a national survey distributed at 23 tertiary institutions in South Africa during career fairs. Qualitative data was collected through focus group discussions with a sample of SARS graduate employees. Triangulation of results was possible and the analysis of data provided scientific evidence for meaningful conclusions and recommendations. The findings of this research enabled the development of a structured argument in terms of what organisations need to start, stop and continue doing to improve the talent management practices for attracting, developing and retaining highly talented people. The research further enabled the identification of key components that are essential for building an attractive and practical EVP for large organizations that focus on enhancing the value of their talent in the 21st century.
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- Date Issued: 2011
Business cycles and stock market performance in South Africa
- Authors: Muchaonyerwa, Forward
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Stock exchanges -- South Africa , Economic indicators -- South Africa , Business cycles -- South Africa , Economic forecasting -- South Africa , Stocks -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11460 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/312 , Stock exchanges -- South Africa , Economic indicators -- South Africa , Business cycles -- South Africa , Economic forecasting -- South Africa , Stocks -- South Africa
- Description: The study investigates the relationship between stock market performance and business cycles in South Africa for the period 2002-2009 using monthly data. This is done by constructing a Vector Error Correction Model (VECM). The study specifies a business cycle model with the business cycle coincident indicator (BC) regressed against, the All Share Price Index (ALSI), Real Effective Exchange Rate (REER), Money Supply (M1), Inflation (CPIX) and the Prime Overdraft Rate (POR). The ALSI represents stock market performance whilst the rest of the variables are to enhance model specification. The study found a positive relationship between stock market performance and business cycles in South Africa. The results also indicated that business cycles are positively related to the lagged variable of the coincident indicator and money supply. In addition, the findings also reveal that BC is negatively related to interest rates and the real effective exchange rate.
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- Date Issued: 2011
Cattle manure, scalping and soil wetness effects on some physical properties of a hardsetting soil and associated early maize growth
- Authors: Nciizah, Adornis Dakarai
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Soil formation , Crops and soils , Manures , Soil mechanics , Soil moisture , Soil stabilization , Soil penetration test
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Crop Science)
- Identifier: vital:11861 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/349 , Soil formation , Crops and soils , Manures , Soil mechanics , Soil moisture , Soil stabilization , Soil penetration test
- Description: Most soils in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa are shallow and are low in organic matter. Therefore these soils are structurally fragile and highly susceptible to inherent degradative processes like hardsetting. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of cattle manure, scalping and soil wetness on aggregate stability, penetration resistance and early maize growth in hardsetting soils. Glasshouse and field studies were conducted to determine the effect of cattle manure on aggregate stability and penetration resistance of freshly exposed topsoils by scalping at 0, 10 and 20 cm depths. In the glasshouse cattle manure was applied at 0 and 20 Mg/ha and matric suction was kept at ~ 30 and ~ 400 kPa; contrasting high and low soil wetness. Three soils were put in pots and arranged in a randomized complete block 3 2 2 factorial design. The field study was done at the University of Fort Hare research farm and the treatments were arranged in a split-plot complete randomized design with three replications. Scalping treatment was the main plot whilst the quantity of the cattle manure applied was the sub plot. Cattle manure increased mean weight diameter (MWD) by between 48% and 71% under glasshouse and between 18% and 33% under field conditions, depending on the soil wetting rate. Cattle manure reduced MWD when the soil under field condition was subjected to mechanical shaking. Soil penetration resistance decreased linearly, with increasing soil wetness but it rapidly increased with increase in matric suction up to ~200 kPa and thereafter the rate of increase reduced. In the glasshouse, all treatments had no significant effects on shoot dry weight but low matric suction increased root dry weight by 133%. Interaction of cattle manure and low matric suction reduced shoot length by 6%, shoot fresh weight by 25%, root surface area by 36%, root length by 5% and root fresh weight by 29% compared to the control. In contrast, application of cattle manure and high matric suction increased shoot length by 37%, shoot fresh weight by 136%, root surface area by 159%, root length by 94% and root fresh weight by 119%. In the field, cattle manure application increased root length density and shoot dry matter by 26% and 30% respectively. Cattle manure improved the stability of aggregates of the hardsetting soil under rapid or slow water intake conditions experienced during rainfall or irrigation. However, under field conditions cattle manure acted as a deflocculant and decreased the stability of aggregates when mechanical stress was applied. The effectiveness of cattle manure in improving maize growth in hardsetting soils was determined by matric suction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Causes of high failure rate among matriculants in the Qumbu District, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Ngewu, Caroline Pumza Bongeka
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Matric learners -- Failure rate -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:18445 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1007292
- Description: The study sought to establish the causes of high failure rate among matriculants in the Qumbu district in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. A qualitative research design was adopted. Interviews were used to collect data. The sample (N=21) was made up of 12 teachers, 3 learners from each of the selected 3 schools. Convenience sampling technique was used to select the participants. The data were thematically analyzed. The study concluded that parents were not involved in the teaching and learning of their children. There was a lack of learner-teacher support material and infrastructure in schools and this affected learner‟s performance. Disciplinary issues involving both teachers and learners negatively affected the performance of learners. The medium of instruction in schools also affected performance because in some schools learners were taught in Xhosa and that resulted in poor performance at school. The study recommended that parents need to be encouraged to be actively involved. Infrastructure needs to be improved in schools and more classrooms should be built. Learners need discipline and society at large should be involved in moulding learners and teachers‟ in this regard (Teachers should lead by example). In addition, teachers and learners need to be motivated to use English as a medium of instruction and teachers ought to use English when they communicate with learners.
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- Date Issued: 2011
Challenges and prospects of quality primary education in Zimbabwe rural schools: a case study of Kadoma rural schools
- Authors: Mazise, Amos
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Rural schools -- Zimbabwe Case studies , Education, Primary -- Zimbabwe Case studies , School management and organization -- Zimbabwe Case studies , Schools -- Zimbabwe -- Evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Dev)
- Identifier: vital:11428 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/569 , Rural schools -- Zimbabwe Case studies , Education, Primary -- Zimbabwe Case studies , School management and organization -- Zimbabwe Case studies , Schools -- Zimbabwe -- Evaluation
- Description: The study focused on investigating challenges and prospects of quality education in rural primary schools in developing countries particularly in Zimbabwe. Reviewed literature indicated that two theories; education as human capital and education as human right advanced increased access to education. Decline of quality of education in the expansion programme portrayed by the decrease of pass rates to below 50 percent, pupils’ low literacy and numeracy prompted investigation. A case study of Ngezi rural primary schools was explored using a sample of 50 respondents selected through stratified random technique. Data were gathered by a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods defined as triangulation. Self- administered questionnaires for heads and teachers, interview guide for grade 7 pupils and SDC and observation guide were the instruments employed for data collection. Analysis of the data was done using descriptive statistics. Findings were that quality of universal education was affected by inadequate supporting inputs and facilities, inappropriate teaching methods and unmotivated teachers. However 80 percent of the schools were staffed with qualified teachers depicting government’s commitment to quality education. 40 % of the schools without qualified leadership were indicative of the effect of poor school conditions to staff turn up. In studies carried out in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and India quality also declined as access was increased due to similar causes. Recommendations were to create a strong collaboration among stakeholders through communication to ensure the four conditions for quality are met simultaneously as they are interdependent and reforming the curriculum to suit means and needs of the people.
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- Date Issued: 2011
Challenges facing school management teams in the general education and training band schools untitles
- Authors: Mapisa, Bafundi Zealous
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: School management -- Education and training
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:18423 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1006923
- Description: During the apartheid era, that is, before 1994, principals tended to regard schools as their properties. Principals were expected to manage schools on their own without consulting the rest of the staff. From 1994 with the advent of a new political era, South Africa ended up having one National Education System. That system came up with many changes. In the new education system, the management of the school was taken from being the principal‟s duty only, to the responsibility of a management team which is referred to as the school management team (SMT). Because of the democratic nature of the SMT, it is required that educators work co-operatively as a team. The researcher has observed that this has been a challenge in some schools where principals resisted change. On the other hand, principals of schools are facing challenges due to a lack of cooperation amongst their subordinates. The establishment of SMTs does not nullify the authority of the school principal but the challenge that lies therein is that each member of the SMT must play his or her role properly. The purpose of this study was to explore the challenges facing SMT members in the GET band schools of Circuit 2 in Centane. A qualitative investigation was undertaken with the purpose in mind to develop a better understanding of the challenges facing SMTs in Circuit 2. This study was undertaken among 5 schools in Circuit 2 in Centane which falls under Butterworth District. The researcher used convenience sampling in selecting the SMTs of schools that would participate in this research study. Due to the fact that the researcher is a principal in one of the schools in Circuit 2 he could obtain easy access to SMTs of other schools in the Circuit. The following stakeholders were identified and participated in the selected schools: principal, deputy principal and Head of Department. Qualitative data were collected through semi- structured interviews. The study was framed within the interpretive approach, and sought to unpack the perceptions of SMT members with regard to team-management . An interpretive paradigm made it possible for the researcher to gain an in-depth understanding of SMT members‟ perceptions of team-management within their contexts. The outcomes pointed to several challenges ranging from the SMT terms of reference, cooperation, sources of support and stress as a result of the work overload involved. Based on the findings, SMTs have brought the phenomenon of cooperation to the fore, and cooperation may be perceived to have many advantages. However, in order for the SMTs to play a meaningful role in curriculum management and governance issues, there is a need for them to be conversant with issues and kept abreast of developments in education as a system. It is therefore recommended that members of the SMT be exposed to continuing professional training and development in the aforementioned governance areas.
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- Date Issued: 2011
Characterization of stratified L-topological spaces by convergence of stratified L-filters
- Authors: Orpen, David Lisle
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Topology , Generalized spaces , Filters (Mathematics) , Topological spaces
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5402 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005216 , Topology , Generalized spaces , Filters (Mathematics) , Topological spaces
- Description: For the case where L is an ecl-premonoid, we explore various characterizations of SL-topological spaces, in particular characterization in terms of a convergence function lim: FS L(X) ! LX. We find we have to introduce a new axiom , L on the lim function in order to completely describe SL-topological spaces, which is not required in the case where L is a frame. We generalize the classical Kowalski and Fischer axioms to the lattice context and examine their relationship to the convergence axioms. We define the category of stratified L-generalized convergence spaces, as a generalization of the classical convergence spaces and investigate conditions under which it contains the category of stratified L-topological spaces as a reflective subcategory. We investigate some subcategories of the category of stratified L-generalized convergence spaces obtained by generalizing various classical convergence axioms.
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- Date Issued: 2011
Characterization of village chicken health and management practices in the Amatola Basin of the Eastern Cape Province of South Afrrica
- Authors: Nyoni, Njongenhle Mhlanhlandlela Bernard
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Chickens -- Diseases , Chickens -- Health , Chickens -- Parasites , Chickens -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11804 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/561 , Chickens -- Diseases , Chickens -- Health , Chickens -- Parasites , Chickens -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Characterization of village chicken phealth and management practices in the Amatola Basin of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa By Njongenhle M. B. NYONI The majority of rural households in South Africa own village chickens which contribute significantly to their livelihoods. However, limited research has been conducted to characterize, understand and develop village chicken production in South Africa. This hinders the designing and implementation of village chicken-based developmental programmes that will benefit farmers in rural areas. Thus, it is imperative to initiate studies to describe village chicken production. This study was conducted to characterize village chicken production in Amatola Basin of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Baseline information was gathered using a questionnaire survey of 81 identified from 7 out of 13 villages using snowball sampling technique. Consequently, 20 households were selected to participate in a monitoring study (from July 2010 to June 2011) through purposive sampling. Most (60%) chicken flocks were owned by women and mainly raised to meet household food requirements. Some (28.4%) farmers occasionally sold cocks and hens to neighbours, at an average price of R50 (USD7.55) per bird, as a way of culling their flocks and generating income. However, village chickens were mainly kept for food security rather than for their terminal benefit of cash. Although, all chicken flocks were produced under the scavenging feeding system, most (96%) flocks were provided with supplementary feed and drinking water. A majority (93.8%) of households also provided some form of shelter for their chickens. The mean cock to hen to chick ratio was 1:5:15. On average, iii each household owned 17 (±2 S.E.M.) chickens, and hens had 3.3 clutches per annum. Chicks hatched and chickens received as gifts represented the flock entries, while exits included mortality, consumption, sales and gifts or donations, in that order. Generally, both exits and entries were more pronounced in the summer season than in other seasons. Most (81.5%) farmers experienced chicken losses due to predation and health related problems. Parasitism ranked high amongst the village chicken health challenges. During monitoring, the endoprasites identified included nematodes, cestodes and protozoa. Coccidia were the most prevalent endoparasites. The chickens were also infested with a variety of ectoparasites namely: mites, lice, fleas and ticks. The sticktight flea Echidnophaga gallinacean was the most prevalent species. Although ectoparasite infestations were most pronounced in summer, almost all chickens harbored one or more of these parasites throughout the study period. The prevalence and intensity of parasite infestations were significantly (P<0.05) higher in the summer season compared to the other seasons. This was followed by the autumn, spring and winter seasons, respectively. The majority (77.5%) of farmers resorted to alternative remedies, mostly medicinal plants, for treating diseases and controlling parasites. Medicinal plants were used because they were locally available, cheap and perceived to be effective. Therefore, village chicken production in the rural Eastern Cape Province is characterised by several challenges which counter the significant role chickens play in the livelihood of rural households.
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- Date Issued: 2011
Childhood development and career development in eight year-old South African girls
- Authors: Van der Westhuyzen, Nicole Tamsin
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Childhood development , Career development , Griffiths scales of mental development , Early childhood education -- Vocational guidance -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9942 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012969
- Description: Although it is generally acknowledged that critical career-related concepts and attitudes are first formed in childhood, research has focused little attention on this developmental stage. Statements about children‘s career development as an integral dimension of human development date to the early 1950s, yet limited research has investigated this interrelationship. It is imperative to gain a greater understanding of childhood career development in order to better prepare children for their future. The overall purpose of this study is to explore the interrelationship of childhood development and childhood career development. An exploratory-descriptive quantitative research method was used. Thirty participants (all eight year-old girls from a middle class, English speaking background) were selected through non-probability purposive sampling. Data were gathered from the Griffiths Mental Development Scales – Extended Revised (GMDS-ER) and the Childhood Career Development Scale (CCDS) and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results indicated a correlation, although not statistically significant, between childhood development and childhood career development, thus indicating a weak positive correlation between the two variables. Statistically significant relationships were established between certain subscales of the GMDS-ER and CCDS, namely Language and Exploration, Eye-Hand Co-ordination and Key Figures, and Practical Reasoning and Planning. The results from this study, although not conclusive, are groundbreaking in this neglected area of research as they indicate an interrelationship between childhood development and childhood career development. This research is an initial step in investigating this interrelationship and it is the hope of the researcher that it will stimulate further research in this area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Co-utilisation of microalgae for wastewater treatment and the production of animal feed supplements
- Authors: Johnson, Hailey E
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Microalgae -- Biotechnology , Algae culture , Algae products , Waste products as feed , Sewage -- Purification , Organic wastes -- Recycling , Food industry and trade -- Waste disposal , Agriculture -- Waste disposal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3940 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003999 , Microalgae -- Biotechnology , Algae culture , Algae products , Waste products as feed , Sewage -- Purification , Organic wastes -- Recycling , Food industry and trade -- Waste disposal , Agriculture -- Waste disposal
- Description: Microalgae have a variety of commercial applications, the oldest of which include utilisation as a food source and for use in wastewater treatment. These applications, however, are seldom combined due to toxicity concerns, for ethical reasons, and generally the requirement for cultivation of a single algae species for use as a feed supplement. These problems might be negated if a “safer” wastewater such as that from agricultural and/or commercial food production facilities were to be utilised and if a stable algae population can be maintained. In this investigation preliminary studies were carried out using an Integrated Algae Pond System (IAPS) for domestic wastewater treatment to determine the species composition in the associated High Rate Algae Ponds (HRAPs). The effect of different modes of operation, continuous versus batch, on nutrient removal, productivity and species composition was also investigated. Furthermore, indigenous species in the HRAP were isolated and molecularly identified as, Chlorella, Micractinium, Scenedesmus and Pediastrum. Additionally, the effect of the nor amino acid, 2-hydroxy-4-(methylthio)-butanoic acid (HMTBA) and its Cu-chelated derivative, on the growth and biochemical composition of Chlorella, Micractinium, Scenedesmus, Pediastrum and Spirulina was investigated. Species composition in the HRAP was stable under continuous operation with Micractinium dominating > 90% of the algae population. Under batch operation the population dynamic shifted; Chlorella outcompeted Micractinium possibly due to nutrient depletion and selective grazing pressures caused by proliferation of Daphnia. Higher species diversity was observed during batch mode as slower growing algae were able to establish in the HRAP. Nutrient removal efficiency and biomass productivity was higher in continuous mode, however lower nutrient levels were obtained in batch operation. HMTBA did not significantly affect growth rate, however treatment with 10 mg.L-1 resulted in slightly increased growth rate in Micractinium and increased final biomass concentrations in Chlorella, Micractinium and Spirulina (although this was not statistically significant for Micractinium and Spirulina), which are known mixotrophic species. Algae treated with Cu-HMTBA, showed reduced final biomass concentration with 10 mg.L-1, caused by Cu toxicity. Biochemical composition of the algae was species-specific and differed through the growth cycle, with high protein observed during early growth and high carbohydrate during late growth/early stationary phase. Additionally, 0.1 mg.L-1 HMTBA and Cu-HMTBA significantly reduced protein content in Chlorella, Micractinium, Scenedesmus and Pediastrum. In conclusion, operation of the HRAP in continuous culture provided suitable wastewater treatment with high productivity of an ideal species, Micractinium, for use in animal feed supplementation. This species had 40% protein content during growth (higher than the other species tested) and dominated the HRAP at > 90% of the algae population during continuous mode. Addition of HMTBA (> 1 mg.L-1) to algae cultivation systems and those treating wastewater, has the potential to improve productivity and the value of the biomass by enhancing protein content. Overall, the co-utilisation of microalgae for wastewater treatment and the generation of a biomass rich in protein, for incorporation into formulated animal feed supplements, represents a closed ecosystem which conserves nutrients and regenerates a most valuable resource, water.
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- Date Issued: 2011
Cointegration in equity markets: a comparison between South African and major developed and emerging markets
- Authors: Petrov, Pavel
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Cointegration Stock exchanges -- South Africa Stock exchanges -- Developing countries Stock exchanges -- Developed countries South Africa -- Economic conditions Portfolio management -- South Africa Econometrics Autoregression (Statistics)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:5575 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005539
- Description: Cointegration has important implications for portfolio diversification. One of these is that in order to spread risk it is advisable to invest in markets that are not cointegrated. Over the last several decades communication technology has made the world a smaller place and hence cointegration in equity markets has become more prevalent. The bulk of research into cointegration focuses on developed and Asian markets, with little research been done on African markets. This study compares the Engle-Granger and Johansen tests for cointegration and uses them to calculate the level of cointegration between South African and other global equity markets. Each market is compared pair-wise with South Africa and the results have been that in general South Africa is cointegrated with other emerging markets but not really with African nor developed markets. Short-run analysis with the error correction was carried out and showed that in general markets respond slowly to any disequilibrium. Innovation accounting methods showed that the country placed first in Cholesky ordering dominates the other one. Multivariate cointegration was carried out using three selections of 4, 6 and 8 market portfolios. One of the markets was SA and the others were all chosen based on the criteria that they are not pair-wise cointegrated with SA. The level of cointegration varied depending on the portfolios, as did the error correction rates, impulse responses and variance decomposition. The one constant was that the USA dominated any portfolio where it was introduced. Recommendations were finally made about which market portfolio an investor should consider as most favourable.
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- Date Issued: 2011
Cointegration, causality and international portfolio diversification : investigating potential benefits to a South African investor
- Authors: Msimanga, Nkululeko Lwazi
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Cointegration , Econometrics , International finance , Stock exchanges -- South Africa , Stock exchanges -- Developing countries , Stock exchanges -- Developed countries , Investments -- South Africa , Portfolio management -- South Africa , Investment analysis , Autoregression (Statistics)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:962 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002696 , Cointegration , Econometrics , International finance , Stock exchanges -- South Africa , Stock exchanges -- Developing countries , Stock exchanges -- Developed countries , Investments -- South Africa , Portfolio management -- South Africa , Investment analysis , Autoregression (Statistics)
- Description: Research studies on portfolio diversification have tended to focus on developed markets and paid less attention to emerging markets. Traditionally, correlation analysis has been used to determine potential benefits from diversification but current studies have shifted focus from correlation analysis to exploring cointegration analysis and other forms of tests such as the Vector Error Correction Methodology. The research seeks to find if it is beneficial for a South African investor to diversify their portfolio of emerging market equities over a long-term period. Daily weighted share indices for the period of January 1996 to November 2008 were collected and analysed through the application of the Johansen cointegration technique and Vector Error Correction Methodology. Granger Causality tests were also performed to established whether one variable can be useful in forecasting another variable. The study found that there was at least one statistically significant long-run relationship between the emerging markets. After testing for unit roots for all the share indices and their first difference using the Augmented Dickey-Fuller test (ADF), Philips-Perron and Kwiatkowski, Phillips, Schmidt, and Shin (KPSS) unit root tests, similar conclusions were m~de. All the unit root tests and their levels could not be rejected for all the series. However, unit root tests on the first differences were rejected, meaning that all series are of order 1(1) - evidence of cointegration. Simply put, emerging markets tend not to drift apart over time. This suggests that emerging markets offer limited benefits to investors who are looking to add some risk to their portfolios. In addition, the study also found evidence of both unidirectional and bidirectional causality (Granger-Cause tests) between markets. This implies that the conditions for a particular market are exogenous of the other market. The study concludes that emerging markets are gradually adopting the same profile as developed markets.
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- Date Issued: 2011
Community development workers' perceptions of wellness at an HIV / AIDS organisation in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Ndlela, Joshua Bongani
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , AIDS (Disease) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , HIV infections -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organisational behavior , Health promotion -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9837 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1657 , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , AIDS (Disease) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , HIV infections -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organisational behavior , Health promotion -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The general aim of the study was to explore and describe community development workers` perceptions of wellness at an HIV/AIDS organisation in Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa. The population of 36 community development workers at the Nelson Mandela Bay office of this organisation participated in this study. The sampling technique employed can be described as a census as it involved sampling an entire finite population that included all community development workers in the organisation. These workers are predominantly Xhosa-speaking adults between the ages of 21 and 60 years, and include both males and females. Qualitative data were gathered by means of audio-recorded focus groups, utilising semi-structured interviews. Tesch`s method was used to analyse the data, while Guba`s guidelines were used to enhance the trustworthiness of the research. Focus group interviews with community development workers revealed seven common themes in the experience of working in the HIV/AIDS organisation: (a) participants’ understanding of wellness; (b) organisational factors that impact on wellness; (c) personal factors that impact on wellness; (d) family and community factors that impact on wellness; (e) participants’ wellness; (f) personal coping strategies; and (g) suggestions regarding organisational strategies to enhance employee wellness. It is envisaged that the research findings of this study will be used in future to direct interventions that will be beneficial for the short and long term planning for the wellness of the community development workers of the HIV/AIDS organisation and those around them. It was recommended that the organisation was to develop a workplace wellness programme, increase management support towards the staff wellness and to increase the staff capacity.
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- Date Issued: 2011
Community participation and food security in rural Zimbabwe: the case of Marange area in Mutare district
- Authors: Swikepi, Chiedzwa
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Community development , Rural development projects -- Zimbabwe -- Citizen participation , Community development -- Zimbabwe -- Citizen participation , Rural development -- Zimbabwe , Food security -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Dev)
- Identifier: vital:11845 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007303 , Community development , Rural development projects -- Zimbabwe -- Citizen participation , Community development -- Zimbabwe -- Citizen participation , Rural development -- Zimbabwe , Food security -- Zimbabwe
- Description: The chief purpose of this study was to determine the role of the rural communities in the food security initiatives of the government in alleviating food shortages in the Marange communal area of Mutare district in Zimbabwe. The focus was on local community empowerment; ownership of food security initiatives by the communities; communities‟ independent analysis of needs and priorities; their involvement in designing food security programmes and the role of the government in linking with the communities. The data was gathered using a case study research design with the qualitative method being the main research approach. The primary data was obtained from focus group discussions held in three wards of Marange area and some in-depth interviews conducted with selected key informants. The findings indicate that the government designs food security strategies without considering the input of communities. The communities are introduced and expected to adopt these pre-conceived food security plans at the implementation stage. The results also show that poor community participation in the food security initiatives of the government, specifically during the initial stages, is a significant contributing factor to the continual shortages of food in the communal lands of Marange. It is the view of this study that unless community input in decision making at the planning and designing phases is given preference in the food security interventions of the government in rural Zimbabwe, food security will seldom be achieved. While the government has a significant role to play in food security measures, such interventions can make an important contribution if the use and development of community participation is made central to food shortage alleviation strategies. The principal conclusion of this study is that if food security is an intended ultimate goal in rural Zimbabwe, the communities must participate fully in the conceptualisation, planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the government-initiated food security programmes.
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- Date Issued: 2011
Community participation in the implementation of the integrated development plan with reference to Inanda Township in the province of Kwa-Zulu Natal
- Authors: Ntuli, Leanett Fanyana
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Local government--South Africa--Kwa-Zulu Natal--Inanda Townshi--Citizen participation , Citicen's advisory committees--South Africa--Kwa-Zulu Natal , Policy sciences , Rural development projects--South Africa--Kwa-Zulu Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8157 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1664 , Local government--South Africa--Kwa-Zulu Natal--Inanda Townshi--Citizen participation , Citicen's advisory committees--South Africa--Kwa-Zulu Natal , Policy sciences , Rural development projects--South Africa--Kwa-Zulu Natal
- Description: This study focuses on community participation in the implementation of the integrated development plan in Inanda Township in the Province of KwaZulu-Natal. The empirical part of the study was conducted on the Inanada, Ntuzuma, and KwaMashu area of the eThekwini Municipality. Ward committees are forums for community participation in municipalities. They enhance participatory democracy at the local sphere of government. The main function of ward committee members include advising the ward councilors on policy matters that affect their respective wards, identifying the needs and challenges that face the wards, and communicating information to communities residing in those wards. This study acknowledges the fact that, in terms of the policy framework, ward councillors are the chairpersons of their respective ward committees. They are there to assist the community to express its views and participate in the processes of policy-making. Ward committee members need to liaise with the community, bring issues to the ward committee meetings and take the concerns of the community to the relevant unit of the municipality. The role of ward committees is to facilitate service delivery in their communities. It also found that the efficacy of ward committees during the implementation phase of the IDP could be improved. Hence it recommends that the eThekwini Municipality must encourage local community members, ward committees and councillors to play their role during the implementation of the IDP.
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- Date Issued: 2011
Community radio and museum outreach: a case study of community radio practices to inform the environment and sustainability programmes of Livingstone Museum
- Authors: Muloongo, Arthanitius Henry
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Community radio -- Zambia Livingstone Museum Museum outreach programs -- Zambia Environmental education -- Zambia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1454 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003335
- Description: This is a qualitative study whose purpose was to investigate the community radio education practices and the museum outreach education activities with a view to understanding how a museum-radio partnership may be used to engage the Livingstone community in environment and sustainability learning. Environment and sustainability issues require a community approach in order to bring about sustained responses to environmental challenges. As such, the study worked with social learning ideas of engaging the community in environment and sustainability learning. The data was generated mainly from face-to-face semi-structured interviews involving three community radio stations, Radio Listener Clubs and museum experts. The data generated was then presented to a strategy workshop involving the Livingstone Museum and Radio Musi-otunya staff. Arising from this workshop, recommendations were made about the possibility of the museum working in partnership with the radio to engage the community in environmental education. The study has shown that much of the museum environmental education activities have been confined to exhibitions and lectures within the museum building, which has affected the number of people being serviced by the museum. These education activities are arranged such that museum expert-led knowledge is presented to the audience with minimal community engagement on the environmental learning content. The study has also shown that community radio programming provides opportunities for community-led social learning which the Livingstone Museum could make use of to engage the community in environmental learning. Community radio programming allows community participation through Radio Listener Clubs, in identification and presentation of local environmental issues. This makes it a suitable tool to address locally relevant environmental issues, by the local community. Environmental issues are different from one place to another. Therefore environmental education approaches that bring issues into the museum may fail to address the different environmental education issues in different community context. The study concludes by recommending that Livingstone Museum should explore the use of community radio so that their expert knowledge and that of the radio producers could be used to shape environmental education programmes to go beyond awareness-raising.
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- Date Issued: 2011