Educational perspectives on social learning theory: antecedents and starting points for research
- Lotz-Sisitka, Heila, Mukute, Mutizwa, Belay, Million
- Authors: Lotz-Sisitka, Heila , Mukute, Mutizwa , Belay, Million
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , report
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/436612 , vital:73286 , ISBN 978-1-919991-81-8 , https://transformativelearning.education/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/reviews-on-social-learning-literature.pdf
- Description: This paper contributes to the social learning literature. It argues that there is a need to give attention to the antecedent literatures that inform understandings of the social in social learning; and the learning in social learning. These antecedent literatures (drawn mainly from sociocultural psychology, learning theory and realist social theory in this paper) are necessary in social learning research, if we are to avoid the problem of ontological collapse in social learning research. The concept of ontologi-cal collapse (after Sfard, 2006) refers to a tendency in modern sciences to objectify social processes. It is used in this paper to draw attention to the need to understand the complex social processes involved in social learn-ing (and the antecedent literatures that may enable us to do so). As such, it warns against reification in social learning research; and also warns against turning social learning into an object, devoid of complex learning processes and agentive reflexions, decision making and practices. To clar-ify this concept, the paper shares examples of instances of ontological collapse, showing that at times, the social learning literature itself can fall victim to the problem of ontological collapse. Drawing on the literature review work in two cases studies of social learning research that work carefully with the antecedent literatures, the paper demonstrates the im-portance of engaging carefully with these literatures to avoid ontological collapse in social learning research in the fields of environmental education and natural resources management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Lotz-Sisitka, Heila , Mukute, Mutizwa , Belay, Million
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , report
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/436612 , vital:73286 , ISBN 978-1-919991-81-8 , https://transformativelearning.education/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/reviews-on-social-learning-literature.pdf
- Description: This paper contributes to the social learning literature. It argues that there is a need to give attention to the antecedent literatures that inform understandings of the social in social learning; and the learning in social learning. These antecedent literatures (drawn mainly from sociocultural psychology, learning theory and realist social theory in this paper) are necessary in social learning research, if we are to avoid the problem of ontological collapse in social learning research. The concept of ontologi-cal collapse (after Sfard, 2006) refers to a tendency in modern sciences to objectify social processes. It is used in this paper to draw attention to the need to understand the complex social processes involved in social learn-ing (and the antecedent literatures that may enable us to do so). As such, it warns against reification in social learning research; and also warns against turning social learning into an object, devoid of complex learning processes and agentive reflexions, decision making and practices. To clar-ify this concept, the paper shares examples of instances of ontological collapse, showing that at times, the social learning literature itself can fall victim to the problem of ontological collapse. Drawing on the literature review work in two cases studies of social learning research that work carefully with the antecedent literatures, the paper demonstrates the im-portance of engaging carefully with these literatures to avoid ontological collapse in social learning research in the fields of environmental education and natural resources management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Educational transformation and curriculum reform: teachers' perceptions of their roles as change agents
- Authors: Ngqondi, Kholisile Phillip
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Educational change -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Teachers -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Curriculum change -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Education -- Political aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:9460 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020136
- Description: Since 1994, the educational landscape in South Africa has been subjected to on-going policy changes. The national Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) which has been promulgated recently, is the third version of a post-apartheid national school curriculum. Teachers, in particular, fulfil critical roles as change agents during a process of educational transformation, as they need to facilitate the change by implementing the new national school curriculum. This study aimed to ascertain teacher experiences of continuous curriculum change, by focusing in particular on the views of selected FET teachers. Focus group interviews were conducted with teachers employed at secondary schools in an urban township in the Eastern Cape. The data revealed that the teachers‟ responses could be categorised into four broad themes, namely CAPS itself, the learners in relation to CAPS, the teacher in relation to CAPS and the Department of Education in relation to CAPS. Despite several frustrations and uncertainties, it was clear that the teachers wanted to assume agency as they expressed a commitment towards change and a willingness to implement CAPS to the best of their ability. This study however concludes that the FET teachers who participated struggled to assume full agency, due to restrictive and disabling conditions which are mostly beyond their control.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Ngqondi, Kholisile Phillip
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Educational change -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Teachers -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Curriculum change -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Education -- Political aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:9460 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020136
- Description: Since 1994, the educational landscape in South Africa has been subjected to on-going policy changes. The national Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) which has been promulgated recently, is the third version of a post-apartheid national school curriculum. Teachers, in particular, fulfil critical roles as change agents during a process of educational transformation, as they need to facilitate the change by implementing the new national school curriculum. This study aimed to ascertain teacher experiences of continuous curriculum change, by focusing in particular on the views of selected FET teachers. Focus group interviews were conducted with teachers employed at secondary schools in an urban township in the Eastern Cape. The data revealed that the teachers‟ responses could be categorised into four broad themes, namely CAPS itself, the learners in relation to CAPS, the teacher in relation to CAPS and the Department of Education in relation to CAPS. Despite several frustrations and uncertainties, it was clear that the teachers wanted to assume agency as they expressed a commitment towards change and a willingness to implement CAPS to the best of their ability. This study however concludes that the FET teachers who participated struggled to assume full agency, due to restrictive and disabling conditions which are mostly beyond their control.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Educator perceptions of the impact of the departmental matric intervention strategies on selected under-performing schools in the Queenstown district
- Authors: Mrali, Amos Mzoxolo
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: High school teachers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , High school students -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Teacher effectiveness -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , High schools -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Examinations , Academic achievement -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School improvement programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School crisis management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16180 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006232 , High school teachers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , High school students -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Teacher effectiveness -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , High schools -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Examinations , Academic achievement -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School improvement programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School crisis management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The problem of school under-performance as defined by the level of pass rates of learners in the matric examinations has been a point of educational debate in South Africa for a number of years, especially after the attainment of democracy. In the Eastern Cape, Matric Intervention Strategies (MIS) have been used to address the problem. The aim of this study was to investigate educator perceptions of the impact of the MIS on selected under-performing high schools in the Queenstown District.Two case study schools classified as consistent under-performers participated in the study. Data was collected through in-depth interviews of key educators in these schools. There were five main findings. First, educators felt that Departmental intervention strategies had not made any significant improvement in addressing underperformance in the two case study schools. Second, participants saw underperformance by schools as caused by a myriad of factors which include those related to leadership and management at school and district levels and educator and learner factors, as well as teacher union interference. They did not see MIS as being able to address the causes simultaneously. Third, the implementation of the (MIS) at school level was poorly monitored by the Departmental officials. It was reported that under-performing schools were hardly visited and supported by the subject advisors and (MIO)s. Fourth, educators perceived the role of subject advisors to be limited to CASS moderation as they did not provide any developmental support to educators experiencing content gaps. Finally, educators saw the MIS as a money making scheme for certain educators and district officials. They claimed this was linked to corrupt practices during the appointment of tutors. The teachers did not have confidence in the appointment procedures used by the district for tutors.It can be concluded that the Matric Intervention Strategies in the two schools arenot likely to achieve the intended results as long as educators do not think thatthe strategies are addressing the problems they face. Another conclusion is that the Matric Intervention Strategies are seen as ‘quick fix’ responses to what arereally deep-seated and systemic problems in education. Given the findings of this study, it is recommended that the impact of Matric Intervention Strategies be the focus of a survey research for which a probability sample must be drawn that can generate findings that are generalisable across the participating target population. For the delivery of the MIS it is recommended that the weaknesses identified by educators of the two schools be further investigated so that new implementation plans can be developed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Mrali, Amos Mzoxolo
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: High school teachers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , High school students -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Teacher effectiveness -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , High schools -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Examinations , Academic achievement -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School improvement programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School crisis management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16180 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006232 , High school teachers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , High school students -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Teacher effectiveness -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , High schools -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Examinations , Academic achievement -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School improvement programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School crisis management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The problem of school under-performance as defined by the level of pass rates of learners in the matric examinations has been a point of educational debate in South Africa for a number of years, especially after the attainment of democracy. In the Eastern Cape, Matric Intervention Strategies (MIS) have been used to address the problem. The aim of this study was to investigate educator perceptions of the impact of the MIS on selected under-performing high schools in the Queenstown District.Two case study schools classified as consistent under-performers participated in the study. Data was collected through in-depth interviews of key educators in these schools. There were five main findings. First, educators felt that Departmental intervention strategies had not made any significant improvement in addressing underperformance in the two case study schools. Second, participants saw underperformance by schools as caused by a myriad of factors which include those related to leadership and management at school and district levels and educator and learner factors, as well as teacher union interference. They did not see MIS as being able to address the causes simultaneously. Third, the implementation of the (MIS) at school level was poorly monitored by the Departmental officials. It was reported that under-performing schools were hardly visited and supported by the subject advisors and (MIO)s. Fourth, educators perceived the role of subject advisors to be limited to CASS moderation as they did not provide any developmental support to educators experiencing content gaps. Finally, educators saw the MIS as a money making scheme for certain educators and district officials. They claimed this was linked to corrupt practices during the appointment of tutors. The teachers did not have confidence in the appointment procedures used by the district for tutors.It can be concluded that the Matric Intervention Strategies in the two schools arenot likely to achieve the intended results as long as educators do not think thatthe strategies are addressing the problems they face. Another conclusion is that the Matric Intervention Strategies are seen as ‘quick fix’ responses to what arereally deep-seated and systemic problems in education. Given the findings of this study, it is recommended that the impact of Matric Intervention Strategies be the focus of a survey research for which a probability sample must be drawn that can generate findings that are generalisable across the participating target population. For the delivery of the MIS it is recommended that the weaknesses identified by educators of the two schools be further investigated so that new implementation plans can be developed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Educators perceptions of implementing guidelines on HIV/AIDS interventions in the Department of Educations Port Elizabeth District
- Authors: Heynes, Arnelle
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Educators -- South Africa , Port Elizabeth (South Africa) -- Education , Communicable diseases
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9895 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1009319 , Educators -- South Africa , Port Elizabeth (South Africa) -- Education , Communicable diseases
- Description: The development and implementation of policy guidelines remains a contentious issue. Over the past few years, difficulty still exists in implementing the Department of Education (DoE) 1999, National Education Policy Act, 1996 (No. 27 of 1996): National Policy on HIV/AIDS for learners and educators in public schools, and students and educators in further education and training institutions [here after referred to as DoE HIV/AIDS policy (1999)], while at the same time trying to transform the entire education system. This research explored the perceptions of educators in the Port Elizabeth District regarding the implementation of DoE HIV/AIDS (1999) policy guidelines. A secondary objective was to provide a reflection of how the implementation of guidelines on HIV/AIDS interventions within the schools of the Port Elizabeth District either conformed to or deviated from the guidelines outlined in the DoE HIV/AIDS policy (1999). The study was executed within the paradigm of qualitative research and employed an exploratory, descriptive and contextual design. The researcher conducted a pilot study to enhance the trustworthiness of the study. Purposive sampling was employed to recruit research participants, consisting of 12 educators from 10 schools in the Port Elizabeth District where HIV/AIDS interventions were being implemented. Data was gathered through semi-structured interviewing and analysed using Tesch’s (1990) in De Vos, Strydom, Fouché & Delport (2005:340-341) framework for analysis of qualitative data. Guba’s model (in Krefting, 1991) was used to ensure the trustworthiness of the study. Three themes emerged from the results of the in-depth semi-structured interviews: (1) Educators’ views on the DoE HIV/AIDS policy (1999) guidelines and its implementation (2) Gaps or shortcomings in implementation of the DoE HIV/AIDS policy (1999) and (3) Educator suggestions’ to inform implementation of the DoE HIV/AIDS policy (1999) in schools. The results from the study indicate that there is inconsistency in the policy implementation approach employed by DoE district level representatives and there is a need for knowledge and capacity development at district and school level. The value of the study is outlined as well as recommendations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Heynes, Arnelle
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Educators -- South Africa , Port Elizabeth (South Africa) -- Education , Communicable diseases
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9895 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1009319 , Educators -- South Africa , Port Elizabeth (South Africa) -- Education , Communicable diseases
- Description: The development and implementation of policy guidelines remains a contentious issue. Over the past few years, difficulty still exists in implementing the Department of Education (DoE) 1999, National Education Policy Act, 1996 (No. 27 of 1996): National Policy on HIV/AIDS for learners and educators in public schools, and students and educators in further education and training institutions [here after referred to as DoE HIV/AIDS policy (1999)], while at the same time trying to transform the entire education system. This research explored the perceptions of educators in the Port Elizabeth District regarding the implementation of DoE HIV/AIDS (1999) policy guidelines. A secondary objective was to provide a reflection of how the implementation of guidelines on HIV/AIDS interventions within the schools of the Port Elizabeth District either conformed to or deviated from the guidelines outlined in the DoE HIV/AIDS policy (1999). The study was executed within the paradigm of qualitative research and employed an exploratory, descriptive and contextual design. The researcher conducted a pilot study to enhance the trustworthiness of the study. Purposive sampling was employed to recruit research participants, consisting of 12 educators from 10 schools in the Port Elizabeth District where HIV/AIDS interventions were being implemented. Data was gathered through semi-structured interviewing and analysed using Tesch’s (1990) in De Vos, Strydom, Fouché & Delport (2005:340-341) framework for analysis of qualitative data. Guba’s model (in Krefting, 1991) was used to ensure the trustworthiness of the study. Three themes emerged from the results of the in-depth semi-structured interviews: (1) Educators’ views on the DoE HIV/AIDS policy (1999) guidelines and its implementation (2) Gaps or shortcomings in implementation of the DoE HIV/AIDS policy (1999) and (3) Educator suggestions’ to inform implementation of the DoE HIV/AIDS policy (1999) in schools. The results from the study indicate that there is inconsistency in the policy implementation approach employed by DoE district level representatives and there is a need for knowledge and capacity development at district and school level. The value of the study is outlined as well as recommendations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Educators' experiences with the implementation of Grade 11 NCS English first additional language in selected schools in the Fort Beaufort Education District
- Authors: Besman, Shirley
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Education and state -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Language policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Curriculum planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , English language -- Study and teaching , Curriculum evaluation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fort Beaufort (South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16190 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006251 , Education and state -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Language policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Curriculum planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , English language -- Study and teaching , Curriculum evaluation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fort Beaufort (South Africa)
- Description: One of the essential sectors that needed a drastic change in the post apartheid era in South Africa, was the education system or policy of the country. The government had a responsibility of combining together the nineteen different Departments of Education into which the schools were fragmented. It is in the interest of the country that, out of the eleven official languages of the country, learners should at least be fluent in two languages namely, the learner‟s mother language and any official language which will be treated as an additional language, thus, promoting additive bilingualism. This is on line with the country‟s constitution which has granted equal status to the eleven languages. That resulted in the formulation of two very imperative policies pertaining to schools; 1) The South African Schools Act (SASA) of 1996 which repeal all discriminatory policies of apartheid. On the issue of language the SASA placed the responsibility of choosing the school subjects to the School Governing Bodies (SGB) and 2) The Language-in- Education Policy (LiEP) of 1997 which is based on the recognition that South Africa is multilingual, and promotes learning of more than one official language. In an attempt to accomplish the constitutional obligation, and establish uniformity or equality in education, Curriculum 2005 which was later revised and known as the Revised National Statement and later revised and known as the NATIONAL Curriculum Statement, with the Outcomes Based Education as its approach, was introduced. The study investigated the experiences of educators with the implementation of NCS EFAL in Grade 11 in the Fort Beaufort Education District. English First Additional Language is used by the majority of schools as the Language of Learning and Teaching (LoLT). The study is located in the interpretive paradigm which sought to explore people‟s experiences and their views. Qualitative research approach was adopted in the study with the intentions of finding as much detail as possible on the experiences of educators with the implementation of NCS EFAL in the Grade 11 classrooms. Six EFAL educators in the Fort Beaufort Education District in the Nkonkobe Municipality were purposely selected for the study. Semi structured interviews consisting of precisely defined questions that were pre-prepared, yet at the same time permitted the EFAL educators to answer beyond what the researcher enquired, were also employed in the study. The results pointed out that all EFAL educators interviewed were qualified teachers and had specialized in English teaching. In addition, the study revealed that in the Fort Beaufort Education District, there were two categories of EFAL educators who were trained for the implementation of NCS EFAL; those who only received one week departmental workshop and those who on top of the one week departmental workshop, received a two year training in Advanced Certificate In Education (ACE) English Language Teaching (ELT) from a Higher Education. The dissimilarity between the two groups manifested in their respective schools between the educators and their Heads of Departments (HOD) who happen to have little knowledge of the implementation of the curriculum. It became evident that the group of educators who were trained in ACE ELT were more familiar with the requirements of the NCS EFAL. The other group which was not conversant with the NCS EFAL policies decided to maintain their old teaching methods. Key recommendations of the study: Policy makers should clarify terminology to be understood by all educators, the Department of Education should take full responsibility of retraining educators to ensure uniformity in training through the in-service trainings yearly.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Besman, Shirley
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Education and state -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Language policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Curriculum planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , English language -- Study and teaching , Curriculum evaluation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fort Beaufort (South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16190 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006251 , Education and state -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Language policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Curriculum planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , English language -- Study and teaching , Curriculum evaluation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fort Beaufort (South Africa)
- Description: One of the essential sectors that needed a drastic change in the post apartheid era in South Africa, was the education system or policy of the country. The government had a responsibility of combining together the nineteen different Departments of Education into which the schools were fragmented. It is in the interest of the country that, out of the eleven official languages of the country, learners should at least be fluent in two languages namely, the learner‟s mother language and any official language which will be treated as an additional language, thus, promoting additive bilingualism. This is on line with the country‟s constitution which has granted equal status to the eleven languages. That resulted in the formulation of two very imperative policies pertaining to schools; 1) The South African Schools Act (SASA) of 1996 which repeal all discriminatory policies of apartheid. On the issue of language the SASA placed the responsibility of choosing the school subjects to the School Governing Bodies (SGB) and 2) The Language-in- Education Policy (LiEP) of 1997 which is based on the recognition that South Africa is multilingual, and promotes learning of more than one official language. In an attempt to accomplish the constitutional obligation, and establish uniformity or equality in education, Curriculum 2005 which was later revised and known as the Revised National Statement and later revised and known as the NATIONAL Curriculum Statement, with the Outcomes Based Education as its approach, was introduced. The study investigated the experiences of educators with the implementation of NCS EFAL in Grade 11 in the Fort Beaufort Education District. English First Additional Language is used by the majority of schools as the Language of Learning and Teaching (LoLT). The study is located in the interpretive paradigm which sought to explore people‟s experiences and their views. Qualitative research approach was adopted in the study with the intentions of finding as much detail as possible on the experiences of educators with the implementation of NCS EFAL in the Grade 11 classrooms. Six EFAL educators in the Fort Beaufort Education District in the Nkonkobe Municipality were purposely selected for the study. Semi structured interviews consisting of precisely defined questions that were pre-prepared, yet at the same time permitted the EFAL educators to answer beyond what the researcher enquired, were also employed in the study. The results pointed out that all EFAL educators interviewed were qualified teachers and had specialized in English teaching. In addition, the study revealed that in the Fort Beaufort Education District, there were two categories of EFAL educators who were trained for the implementation of NCS EFAL; those who only received one week departmental workshop and those who on top of the one week departmental workshop, received a two year training in Advanced Certificate In Education (ACE) English Language Teaching (ELT) from a Higher Education. The dissimilarity between the two groups manifested in their respective schools between the educators and their Heads of Departments (HOD) who happen to have little knowledge of the implementation of the curriculum. It became evident that the group of educators who were trained in ACE ELT were more familiar with the requirements of the NCS EFAL. The other group which was not conversant with the NCS EFAL policies decided to maintain their old teaching methods. Key recommendations of the study: Policy makers should clarify terminology to be understood by all educators, the Department of Education should take full responsibility of retraining educators to ensure uniformity in training through the in-service trainings yearly.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Educators' perceptions of conflict at three Northern area schools in Port Elizabeth: a case study
- Authors: Cain, Gerard Garth
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Conflict of interests -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Career development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Educators -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Conflict management -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:9563 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013756
- Description: The researcher, who is also an educator, a School Management Team member and a union official, observed that conflict among educators at schools was a cause of concern. This situation prompted the researcher to explore how school leaders and educators perceived conflict among educators at school in order to determine the perceived possible causes of conflict, the perceived possible consequences of conflict, how conflict was currently dealt with and the perceptions regarding appropriate measures to address the handling of conflict. The research was underpinned by the interpretive paradigm and followed a case study approach that involved three primary schools residing in close proximity to one another in the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth, South Africa. Data was collected from educators and school leaders ranging from Post Level One educators to principals and covering educators from the Foundation Phase, Intermediate Phase and Senior Phase. Data was gathered by making use of an open-ended questionnaire, semi-structured personal interviews and semi-structured focus group interviews. The findings revealed that the research participants mostly viewed conflict negatively and associated it (conflict) with disagreements, misunderstandings, verbal and non-verbal fighting, and diverse views or opinions. The possible causes as identified by the participants were categorised into data-based conflict, relationship conflict, structural conflict, interest-based conflict and needs-based conflict. Data-based conflict related to issues concerned with communication, a lack of transparency and consultation, and the spreading of gossip and untruths. Relationship conflict pertained to favouritism, not valuing the opinions of others, and a lack of respect or tolerance. Structural conflict, as highlighted by the participants, were linked to issues of management and leadership, workload allocations and time tabling, punctuality and time issues and the role and responsibilities of employees. Value-based conflict was ascribed to different beliefs and viewpoints of people and differences in valuing guidance from others. Interest-based conflict was closely connected to appointments and limited possibilities around promotion posts as well as to issues with resources. Needs-based conflict focused on individuals‟ self-esteem needs and people‟s need for power and (or) status. Conflict was also perceived as having both positive and negative consequences. Positive aspects related to improved relationships, better understanding, change and improved attitudes and the development of personal growth. Negative aspects of conflict were associated with the manifestation of defiant attitudes and intolerance, poor cooperation, the formation of groups and cliques, poor morale and work ethic, poor health and stress, absenteeism and negative effects on teaching and the learners. Regarding the handling of conflict, the findings highlighted the perception that conflict is mostly avoided and (or) inadequately handled and when it was dealt with, it was done unprofessionally and inappropriately. The findings also pertained to suggestions in dealing with conflict in an appropriate manner. Here, the following important practical ways or aspects of handling conflict were suggested, namely ensuring that aggrieved parties were provided with opportunities to raise their issues, listening with serious intent, applying confidentiality and professionalism, openness and transparency, provision of fair hearings and treatment, the utilisation of policies and procedures, the value of conflict management training and the inclusion of external intervention in resolving conflict. Various outcomes were suggested by the findings. These were linked to striving towards a win-win situation, respect and understanding for all, compromise and agreement and satisfying all parties with agreements reached. The promotion of third party intervention was emphasised, with participants highlighting the characteristics that these third parties had to reflect and the procedures which they had to follow when attempting to resolve conflicts. Recommendations are also provided. In terms of these recommendations drafted, this study concludes that the recommendations can be grouped related to professional development opportunities and policies and procedures. Finally, in exploring educators‟ perceptions of conflict in three Northern Areas primary schools in Port Elizabeth, the researcher gained valuable insights into conflict among educators at schools, which could benefit educators (teachers, SMT‟s and principals) and education in general.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Cain, Gerard Garth
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Conflict of interests -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Career development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Educators -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Conflict management -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:9563 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013756
- Description: The researcher, who is also an educator, a School Management Team member and a union official, observed that conflict among educators at schools was a cause of concern. This situation prompted the researcher to explore how school leaders and educators perceived conflict among educators at school in order to determine the perceived possible causes of conflict, the perceived possible consequences of conflict, how conflict was currently dealt with and the perceptions regarding appropriate measures to address the handling of conflict. The research was underpinned by the interpretive paradigm and followed a case study approach that involved three primary schools residing in close proximity to one another in the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth, South Africa. Data was collected from educators and school leaders ranging from Post Level One educators to principals and covering educators from the Foundation Phase, Intermediate Phase and Senior Phase. Data was gathered by making use of an open-ended questionnaire, semi-structured personal interviews and semi-structured focus group interviews. The findings revealed that the research participants mostly viewed conflict negatively and associated it (conflict) with disagreements, misunderstandings, verbal and non-verbal fighting, and diverse views or opinions. The possible causes as identified by the participants were categorised into data-based conflict, relationship conflict, structural conflict, interest-based conflict and needs-based conflict. Data-based conflict related to issues concerned with communication, a lack of transparency and consultation, and the spreading of gossip and untruths. Relationship conflict pertained to favouritism, not valuing the opinions of others, and a lack of respect or tolerance. Structural conflict, as highlighted by the participants, were linked to issues of management and leadership, workload allocations and time tabling, punctuality and time issues and the role and responsibilities of employees. Value-based conflict was ascribed to different beliefs and viewpoints of people and differences in valuing guidance from others. Interest-based conflict was closely connected to appointments and limited possibilities around promotion posts as well as to issues with resources. Needs-based conflict focused on individuals‟ self-esteem needs and people‟s need for power and (or) status. Conflict was also perceived as having both positive and negative consequences. Positive aspects related to improved relationships, better understanding, change and improved attitudes and the development of personal growth. Negative aspects of conflict were associated with the manifestation of defiant attitudes and intolerance, poor cooperation, the formation of groups and cliques, poor morale and work ethic, poor health and stress, absenteeism and negative effects on teaching and the learners. Regarding the handling of conflict, the findings highlighted the perception that conflict is mostly avoided and (or) inadequately handled and when it was dealt with, it was done unprofessionally and inappropriately. The findings also pertained to suggestions in dealing with conflict in an appropriate manner. Here, the following important practical ways or aspects of handling conflict were suggested, namely ensuring that aggrieved parties were provided with opportunities to raise their issues, listening with serious intent, applying confidentiality and professionalism, openness and transparency, provision of fair hearings and treatment, the utilisation of policies and procedures, the value of conflict management training and the inclusion of external intervention in resolving conflict. Various outcomes were suggested by the findings. These were linked to striving towards a win-win situation, respect and understanding for all, compromise and agreement and satisfying all parties with agreements reached. The promotion of third party intervention was emphasised, with participants highlighting the characteristics that these third parties had to reflect and the procedures which they had to follow when attempting to resolve conflicts. Recommendations are also provided. In terms of these recommendations drafted, this study concludes that the recommendations can be grouped related to professional development opportunities and policies and procedures. Finally, in exploring educators‟ perceptions of conflict in three Northern Areas primary schools in Port Elizabeth, the researcher gained valuable insights into conflict among educators at schools, which could benefit educators (teachers, SMT‟s and principals) and education in general.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Effect of cultivar on the quality of flax and hemp grown in South Africa
- Authors: Blouw, Langa Sunshine
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Hemp -- South Africa , Flaxseed -- South Africa , Plant varieties , Textile industry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:9387 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1010997 , Hemp -- South Africa , Flaxseed -- South Africa , Plant varieties , Textile industry
- Description: Bast fibrous renewable materials, as commercial crops for the manufacture of textile based and other products, have been used for thousands of years to satisfy certain human needs, such as for shelter, clothing, source of energy and tools, and to sustain the livelihood of many communities in countries, such as in Asia, Europe and Africa. Concern for the environment has led to a number of global initiatives that favour the use of natural fibres. It is forecast that the global fibre demand by 2050 will be 130 million tonnes, which the cotton and synthetic fibre production will not be able to meet. Other than the environmental concerns, the renewed global interest in natural fibres, such as flax and hemp, forms part of a strategy to satisfy the fibre demand. South Africa, notwithstanding the fact that the flax and hemp industries have long been established for thousands of years in Europe, Asia and Egypt (Africa), has no history of the breeding, growing, processing and production of these cash crops. The renewed global interest in these crops has also stimulated interest from South Africa with respect to the development of a flax and hemp fibre industry so as to address some of the socio-economic challenges confronting the country today in its attempts to bring about real development in the rural areas through the cultivation and complete beneficiation of these fibre crops. In this regard, the relevant stakeholders, namely government, research councils, tertiary education institutions, farmers and communities worked together to investigate whether South Africa has the agronomic and climatic conditions, technical expertise as well as the necessary processing and production infrastructure to support the development of a local flax and hemp agro-industry. The purpose of this study was firstly to evaluate the performance of EU flax and hemp cultivars grown under different agronomic conditions in South Africa, and their effect on straw biomass yield, fibre yield and total fibre yield per hectare as well as associated fibre properties, and secondly to undertake mechanical fibre modification trials aimed at producing flax and hemp fibres with fibre diameters close to those of cotton. The minimum fibre diameter targeted being 20μm. In accordance with the project objectives and work plan, selected dew retted flax and hemp straw samples from the various planting sites selected by the Agriculture Research Council – Institute for Industrial Crops, representing all the agronomic conditions under investigation, were taken to the CSIR for fibre extraction and testing. A relatively inexpensive and easy to operate Russian designed and manufactured machine, the CMT-200M breaker-cum-scutcher, was used for fibre extraction and the resultant extracted fibre bundles were further refined, using a steel comb, to obtain optimal fibre separation before their physical and chemical properties were evaluated. Results obtained in this research study proved that the climatic and agronomic conditions in South Africa were suitable for the cultivation of flax and hemp, notwithstanding the fact that the fibre yields achieved for hemp were lower than the minimum criteria of 23 percent, and that for flax only just exceeded the 25 percent minimum. The lack of local technical expertise on the growing and retting of flax and hemp, contributed to the low fibre yields. The planting parameters which were found to produce good results for the cultivation of hemp were the October planting date, using a row spacing of between 12.5 to 25 cm, with a seeding density of between 80 – 100kg, and the application of 50 – 100kg nitrogen fertiliser. The use of extra artificial lighting and herbicide treatment did not appear to beneficially improve the hemp fibre yields. Similar considerations for flax cultivation in the Southern Cape region, particularly Oudtshoorn and Outeniqua, indicated that May to July planting dates, using inter-row spacing of 25cm and sowing density of 63kg seed.haˉ¹, produced a fibre yield and total fibre yield per hectare above the minimum values of 25 percent and 0,8 tonnes per hectare, respectively, quoted in the literature.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Blouw, Langa Sunshine
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Hemp -- South Africa , Flaxseed -- South Africa , Plant varieties , Textile industry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:9387 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1010997 , Hemp -- South Africa , Flaxseed -- South Africa , Plant varieties , Textile industry
- Description: Bast fibrous renewable materials, as commercial crops for the manufacture of textile based and other products, have been used for thousands of years to satisfy certain human needs, such as for shelter, clothing, source of energy and tools, and to sustain the livelihood of many communities in countries, such as in Asia, Europe and Africa. Concern for the environment has led to a number of global initiatives that favour the use of natural fibres. It is forecast that the global fibre demand by 2050 will be 130 million tonnes, which the cotton and synthetic fibre production will not be able to meet. Other than the environmental concerns, the renewed global interest in natural fibres, such as flax and hemp, forms part of a strategy to satisfy the fibre demand. South Africa, notwithstanding the fact that the flax and hemp industries have long been established for thousands of years in Europe, Asia and Egypt (Africa), has no history of the breeding, growing, processing and production of these cash crops. The renewed global interest in these crops has also stimulated interest from South Africa with respect to the development of a flax and hemp fibre industry so as to address some of the socio-economic challenges confronting the country today in its attempts to bring about real development in the rural areas through the cultivation and complete beneficiation of these fibre crops. In this regard, the relevant stakeholders, namely government, research councils, tertiary education institutions, farmers and communities worked together to investigate whether South Africa has the agronomic and climatic conditions, technical expertise as well as the necessary processing and production infrastructure to support the development of a local flax and hemp agro-industry. The purpose of this study was firstly to evaluate the performance of EU flax and hemp cultivars grown under different agronomic conditions in South Africa, and their effect on straw biomass yield, fibre yield and total fibre yield per hectare as well as associated fibre properties, and secondly to undertake mechanical fibre modification trials aimed at producing flax and hemp fibres with fibre diameters close to those of cotton. The minimum fibre diameter targeted being 20μm. In accordance with the project objectives and work plan, selected dew retted flax and hemp straw samples from the various planting sites selected by the Agriculture Research Council – Institute for Industrial Crops, representing all the agronomic conditions under investigation, were taken to the CSIR for fibre extraction and testing. A relatively inexpensive and easy to operate Russian designed and manufactured machine, the CMT-200M breaker-cum-scutcher, was used for fibre extraction and the resultant extracted fibre bundles were further refined, using a steel comb, to obtain optimal fibre separation before their physical and chemical properties were evaluated. Results obtained in this research study proved that the climatic and agronomic conditions in South Africa were suitable for the cultivation of flax and hemp, notwithstanding the fact that the fibre yields achieved for hemp were lower than the minimum criteria of 23 percent, and that for flax only just exceeded the 25 percent minimum. The lack of local technical expertise on the growing and retting of flax and hemp, contributed to the low fibre yields. The planting parameters which were found to produce good results for the cultivation of hemp were the October planting date, using a row spacing of between 12.5 to 25 cm, with a seeding density of between 80 – 100kg, and the application of 50 – 100kg nitrogen fertiliser. The use of extra artificial lighting and herbicide treatment did not appear to beneficially improve the hemp fibre yields. Similar considerations for flax cultivation in the Southern Cape region, particularly Oudtshoorn and Outeniqua, indicated that May to July planting dates, using inter-row spacing of 25cm and sowing density of 63kg seed.haˉ¹, produced a fibre yield and total fibre yield per hectare above the minimum values of 25 percent and 0,8 tonnes per hectare, respectively, quoted in the literature.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Effect of fluoroquinolones antibiotics on vancomycin and oxacillin resistant staphylococcus species in Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Soyege, Oludotun
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Staphylococcus aureus , Quinolone antibacterial agents , Fluoroquinolones
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25349 , vital:64212
- Description: This study shows the susceptibility profile of some Staphylococcus species isolated from commensal Staphylococci in Nkonkobe municipality, South Africa. A total number of 120 Staphylococcal isolates were screened for their susceptibilities to various classes of antibiotics such as Aminoglycoside (Gentamycin), Aminoglycoside (Kanamycin), Macrolide (Erythromycin), Tetracycline (Minocycline), Anti-tuberculous (Rifampicin), Lincosamides (Clindamycin), Cephalosporin and Fluoroquinolones in general. During the study, 32 (26percent) the test organisms were susceptible to both methicillin and vancomycin, while 12 (10percent) had co-resistance to the antibiotics. Furthermore, Gentamycin (an Aminoglycoside) had a relatively high potency against the isolates with 107 (89.17percent) of the bacteria being susceptible to it, while 10 (8.33percent) were resistant. On the other hand, Erythromycin (a Macrolide) was active against 72 (60percent) of the isolates, while 5 (4.17percent) and 74 (61.67percent) of the isolates yielded intermediate and resistant responses respectively. In addition , 51 (42.5percent) of the isolates were susceptible to rifampicin, while 1 (0.83percent) and 17 (14.17percent) were intermediate and resistant respectively. Ten percent of the isolates screened for their antibiotic susceptibility pattern in this study were positive for mecA gene among the vancomycin-oxacillin resistant strains while van gene was not detected in any of the isolates. This shows how the synergy of both vancomycin and oxacillin contribute to some resistance nature of Staphylococci. In order to overcome this resistance attributes of Staphylococci, to the commonly used antibiotics as discussed under this context, various types of fluoroquinolones were tested. The result shows that less than 10percent of the isolates were generally resistant to the fluoroquinolones except against Nalidix acid to which all the isolates were resistant. Other antibiotics had relatively higher resistance patterns as observed for minocycline (39.51percent), clindamycin (12.75percent), gentamycin (12.31percent) and vancomycin (12.3percent). The new generation fluoroquinolones including Gatifloxacin, Levofloxacin, Moxifloxacin and Ciprofloxacin to which less than 5percent of the bacteria are resistant gives some clinical advantage over the Methicillin and Vancomycin resistant strains. About 31percent of the isolates had multiple antibiotic resistance index of ≥1 and suggests animals in the community as potential reservoirs of antibiotic resistance determinants in the environment. Data obtained in this study is of epidemiological importance and valuable for disease control. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2012
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Soyege, Oludotun
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Staphylococcus aureus , Quinolone antibacterial agents , Fluoroquinolones
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25349 , vital:64212
- Description: This study shows the susceptibility profile of some Staphylococcus species isolated from commensal Staphylococci in Nkonkobe municipality, South Africa. A total number of 120 Staphylococcal isolates were screened for their susceptibilities to various classes of antibiotics such as Aminoglycoside (Gentamycin), Aminoglycoside (Kanamycin), Macrolide (Erythromycin), Tetracycline (Minocycline), Anti-tuberculous (Rifampicin), Lincosamides (Clindamycin), Cephalosporin and Fluoroquinolones in general. During the study, 32 (26percent) the test organisms were susceptible to both methicillin and vancomycin, while 12 (10percent) had co-resistance to the antibiotics. Furthermore, Gentamycin (an Aminoglycoside) had a relatively high potency against the isolates with 107 (89.17percent) of the bacteria being susceptible to it, while 10 (8.33percent) were resistant. On the other hand, Erythromycin (a Macrolide) was active against 72 (60percent) of the isolates, while 5 (4.17percent) and 74 (61.67percent) of the isolates yielded intermediate and resistant responses respectively. In addition , 51 (42.5percent) of the isolates were susceptible to rifampicin, while 1 (0.83percent) and 17 (14.17percent) were intermediate and resistant respectively. Ten percent of the isolates screened for their antibiotic susceptibility pattern in this study were positive for mecA gene among the vancomycin-oxacillin resistant strains while van gene was not detected in any of the isolates. This shows how the synergy of both vancomycin and oxacillin contribute to some resistance nature of Staphylococci. In order to overcome this resistance attributes of Staphylococci, to the commonly used antibiotics as discussed under this context, various types of fluoroquinolones were tested. The result shows that less than 10percent of the isolates were generally resistant to the fluoroquinolones except against Nalidix acid to which all the isolates were resistant. Other antibiotics had relatively higher resistance patterns as observed for minocycline (39.51percent), clindamycin (12.75percent), gentamycin (12.31percent) and vancomycin (12.3percent). The new generation fluoroquinolones including Gatifloxacin, Levofloxacin, Moxifloxacin and Ciprofloxacin to which less than 5percent of the bacteria are resistant gives some clinical advantage over the Methicillin and Vancomycin resistant strains. About 31percent of the isolates had multiple antibiotic resistance index of ≥1 and suggests animals in the community as potential reservoirs of antibiotic resistance determinants in the environment. Data obtained in this study is of epidemiological importance and valuable for disease control. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2012
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Effect of full and semi-scavenging rearing systems on crop contents and the quality of meat from village chickens during spring season of Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Hanyani, Charles Tawanda
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Chickens -- Feeding and feeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chicken breeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Meat -- Quality -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Forage plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- Nutrition -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11807 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/440 , Chickens -- Feeding and feeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chicken breeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Meat -- Quality -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Forage plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- Nutrition -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The objective of this study was to compare the nutrient status of full scavenging and semi-scavenging village chicken production systems. The semi-scavenging chickens were given broiler finisher mash between 14-24 weeks of age, whilst the full scavenging relied on natural foraging. The study also sought to compare the quality of meat from chickens from the two systems. After slaughtering the chickens, the crop contents were physically separated and analysed for chemical composition. Meat pH and colour were measured on the breast muscle of individual carcasses and a consumer sensory evaluation was also done on the breast muscle. The mean crop content weights per day were significantly higher in full scavenging chickens (±16.7g/day biomass) than in semi-scavenging chickens (±9.14g/day). Dry matter, calcium, and phosphorus levels were higher in the crop contents of the full than in the semi-scavenging chickens but crude protein, crude fibre and metabolisable energy were higher in the latter system. Semi-scavenging (1.3 ± 0.05kg) carcasses were heavier (P<0.05) than full scavenging ones (1.0 ± 0.06kg). The ultimate pH (24h) (pHu) of meat from full scavenging chickens (6.0 ± 0.03) was higher (P<0.05) than that of meat from the semi-scavenging chickens (5.7 ± 0.04). Meat from the full scavenging chickens had higher L* values (60 ± 1.2) than meat from the semi-scavenging chickens (47 ± 0.8). The a* value of meat of full scavenging chickens was significantly (P<0.05) less (4 ± 0.4) than that of meat from semi-scavenging chickens (15 ± 1.3). There was a significant positive (0.60) correlation between pHu and L* of meat from village chickens across rearing systems. The semi-scavenging system meat had better sensory attributes than the meat from the full scavenging system. Female consumers scored the typical flavour of village chicken meat across rearing systems higher (P< 0.05) than male consumers. The Shona consumers scored the meat higher (P< 0.05) than the Xhosa, Zulu, Ndebele and other tribes for initial juiciness, first bite impression and muscle fibre and tenderness of the chicken across rearing systems. Consumers scored of the meat from the semi-scavenging system higher (P<0.05) on initial juiciness (4.3 ± 0.20), first bite impression (4.2 ± 0.197), muscle fibre tenderness (4.5 ± 0.217) than meat from the full scavenging chickens. There were positive correlations (0.46) between aroma intensity and overall flavour intensity across both rearing systems. The semi-scavenging system produced better carcass characteristics, lighter (L*) meat and more consumer acceptable meat than full scavenging chickens. Therefore the full scavenging rearing system had better nutrient composition in its scavenging feed resource base, although the semi-scavenging systems produced chickens with better carcass, meat pH, colour and sensory characteristics than the full scavenging chickens.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Hanyani, Charles Tawanda
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Chickens -- Feeding and feeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chicken breeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Meat -- Quality -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Forage plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- Nutrition -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11807 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/440 , Chickens -- Feeding and feeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chicken breeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Meat -- Quality -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Forage plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- Nutrition -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The objective of this study was to compare the nutrient status of full scavenging and semi-scavenging village chicken production systems. The semi-scavenging chickens were given broiler finisher mash between 14-24 weeks of age, whilst the full scavenging relied on natural foraging. The study also sought to compare the quality of meat from chickens from the two systems. After slaughtering the chickens, the crop contents were physically separated and analysed for chemical composition. Meat pH and colour were measured on the breast muscle of individual carcasses and a consumer sensory evaluation was also done on the breast muscle. The mean crop content weights per day were significantly higher in full scavenging chickens (±16.7g/day biomass) than in semi-scavenging chickens (±9.14g/day). Dry matter, calcium, and phosphorus levels were higher in the crop contents of the full than in the semi-scavenging chickens but crude protein, crude fibre and metabolisable energy were higher in the latter system. Semi-scavenging (1.3 ± 0.05kg) carcasses were heavier (P<0.05) than full scavenging ones (1.0 ± 0.06kg). The ultimate pH (24h) (pHu) of meat from full scavenging chickens (6.0 ± 0.03) was higher (P<0.05) than that of meat from the semi-scavenging chickens (5.7 ± 0.04). Meat from the full scavenging chickens had higher L* values (60 ± 1.2) than meat from the semi-scavenging chickens (47 ± 0.8). The a* value of meat of full scavenging chickens was significantly (P<0.05) less (4 ± 0.4) than that of meat from semi-scavenging chickens (15 ± 1.3). There was a significant positive (0.60) correlation between pHu and L* of meat from village chickens across rearing systems. The semi-scavenging system meat had better sensory attributes than the meat from the full scavenging system. Female consumers scored the typical flavour of village chicken meat across rearing systems higher (P< 0.05) than male consumers. The Shona consumers scored the meat higher (P< 0.05) than the Xhosa, Zulu, Ndebele and other tribes for initial juiciness, first bite impression and muscle fibre and tenderness of the chicken across rearing systems. Consumers scored of the meat from the semi-scavenging system higher (P<0.05) on initial juiciness (4.3 ± 0.20), first bite impression (4.2 ± 0.197), muscle fibre tenderness (4.5 ± 0.217) than meat from the full scavenging chickens. There were positive correlations (0.46) between aroma intensity and overall flavour intensity across both rearing systems. The semi-scavenging system produced better carcass characteristics, lighter (L*) meat and more consumer acceptable meat than full scavenging chickens. Therefore the full scavenging rearing system had better nutrient composition in its scavenging feed resource base, although the semi-scavenging systems produced chickens with better carcass, meat pH, colour and sensory characteristics than the full scavenging chickens.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Effect of stage of lactation on milk yield, somatic cell counts, mineral and fatty acid profiles in pasture-based Friesian, Jersey and Friesian × Jersey cows
- Nantapo, Carlos Wyson Tawanda
- Authors: Nantapo, Carlos Wyson Tawanda
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Trace elements in animal nutrition , Genotype-environment interaction , Milk yield -- Testing , Lactation , Holstein-Friesian cattle , Jersey cattle
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11819 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006810 , Trace elements in animal nutrition , Genotype-environment interaction , Milk yield -- Testing , Lactation , Holstein-Friesian cattle , Jersey cattle
- Description: The effect of stage of lactation on milk yield, somatic cell counts, mineral and fatty acid profiles in pasture-based Friesian, Jersey and Friesian × Jersey cows was investigated. Twenty Friesian, twenty Jersey and twenty Friesian × Jersey cows were randomly selected from a dairy herd. A total of 202 milk samples were collected and analysed in three stages of lactation. Genotypic differences were observed in milk yield and fat content. Friesian cows produced the highest yield and lowest fat content whereas the opposite was true for Jersey cows (P<0.01). No significant differences were observed in SCC in the different genotypes, but SCC levels were higher in mid and late lactation (P<0.001). There was no effect (P<0.005) of genotype and stage of lactation interaction on Ca, P, Mg, Na, Mn and Bo concentration. Jersey cows had the least concentration of Fe and Cu in all stages of lactation. Strong positive correlations were observed among Ca and P, Mg and Zn. Aluminium had a strong positive relationship with Bo, Fe, Mn and Zn (P<0.001). Generally, SCC had a weak positive relationship with macro elements but a significant negative relationship with microelements. Yield levels were negatively correlated with Mg, Na, Al, Mn and SCC. Pasture ALA, SFA, n-3, n-6/n-3 and PUFA/MUFA concentration did not differ across the study period. Linoleic acid was highest in the second phase which coincides with mid lactation in cows (P<0.001). Highest moisture content coincided with the least fat free dry matter content in early lactation (P<0.001). Significantly high fat content was observed in late lactation than in early lactation. Highest butyric, caproic, linoleic, n-6 and PUFA were observed for Friesian cows. All other fatty acids ratios were not significantly different among different genotypes. Highest CLA, ALA, LA, SFA, PUFA, n-6, and n-3 and atherogenicity index were observed in early lactation whereas desaturase activity indices were highest in late lactation. Strong positive correlations were observed among milk vaccenic, ALA, LA and CLA concentrations. Inverse relationships were observed between SFA and long chain fatty acids. It can be concluded, it may be of advantage to consume milk from early stage of lactation poses a lower risk to coronary diseases and are much safer to consume.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Nantapo, Carlos Wyson Tawanda
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Trace elements in animal nutrition , Genotype-environment interaction , Milk yield -- Testing , Lactation , Holstein-Friesian cattle , Jersey cattle
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11819 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006810 , Trace elements in animal nutrition , Genotype-environment interaction , Milk yield -- Testing , Lactation , Holstein-Friesian cattle , Jersey cattle
- Description: The effect of stage of lactation on milk yield, somatic cell counts, mineral and fatty acid profiles in pasture-based Friesian, Jersey and Friesian × Jersey cows was investigated. Twenty Friesian, twenty Jersey and twenty Friesian × Jersey cows were randomly selected from a dairy herd. A total of 202 milk samples were collected and analysed in three stages of lactation. Genotypic differences were observed in milk yield and fat content. Friesian cows produced the highest yield and lowest fat content whereas the opposite was true for Jersey cows (P<0.01). No significant differences were observed in SCC in the different genotypes, but SCC levels were higher in mid and late lactation (P<0.001). There was no effect (P<0.005) of genotype and stage of lactation interaction on Ca, P, Mg, Na, Mn and Bo concentration. Jersey cows had the least concentration of Fe and Cu in all stages of lactation. Strong positive correlations were observed among Ca and P, Mg and Zn. Aluminium had a strong positive relationship with Bo, Fe, Mn and Zn (P<0.001). Generally, SCC had a weak positive relationship with macro elements but a significant negative relationship with microelements. Yield levels were negatively correlated with Mg, Na, Al, Mn and SCC. Pasture ALA, SFA, n-3, n-6/n-3 and PUFA/MUFA concentration did not differ across the study period. Linoleic acid was highest in the second phase which coincides with mid lactation in cows (P<0.001). Highest moisture content coincided with the least fat free dry matter content in early lactation (P<0.001). Significantly high fat content was observed in late lactation than in early lactation. Highest butyric, caproic, linoleic, n-6 and PUFA were observed for Friesian cows. All other fatty acids ratios were not significantly different among different genotypes. Highest CLA, ALA, LA, SFA, PUFA, n-6, and n-3 and atherogenicity index were observed in early lactation whereas desaturase activity indices were highest in late lactation. Strong positive correlations were observed among milk vaccenic, ALA, LA and CLA concentrations. Inverse relationships were observed between SFA and long chain fatty acids. It can be concluded, it may be of advantage to consume milk from early stage of lactation poses a lower risk to coronary diseases and are much safer to consume.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Effective and efficient performance management in local government, with reference to the Cacadu District Municipality
- Authors: Asmah-Andoh, Kwame
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Performance standards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:8161 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1633 , Performance -- Management , Performance standards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa
- Description: This study examined the existing levels of effectiveness and efficiency in local government with the application of performance management systems in the provision of municipal services. The provision of district-wide water services in Cacadu District Municipality in the Province of the Eastern Cape, South Africa is used for particular reference. Local government reforms after 1994 led to the creation of the district municipality (which groups together a number of local municipalities) to drive district-wide services provision, the introduction of systematic services provision standards and performance management as part of management reforms in municipalities. The problem for the research deals with how the Cacadu District Council and the councils of the local municipalities within the district are collaborating in using performance management systems, what effects this could have on programmes and services provision and how communication of performance information would improve service provision. Conceptual and practical difficulties encountered in effective and efficient utilisation and some obstacles that contribute to impeding progress in the use of performance management systems in municipalities were analysed. The qualitative research included a review of documents from the public administration and management literature; discourse analysis of interviews with municipal councilors and appointed officials, community members and provincial managers. The document review included a review of municipal documents that incorporated performance management or described development and use of performance management systems. It also included the legal frameworks and statutory requirements for municipal government and administration. All the responding municipal councils within the Cacadu District Municipality reported using performance management over the past five years yet little empirical evidence explains usage for district-wide programmes and services provision. Research shows that a comprehensive performance management approach to programmes and services has a more effective and efficient impact on service improvement than utilisation of personnnel appraisal (Ammons and Rivenbark, 2005). Despite the expected benefits, personnel performance appraisal is often flawed and the need exists in the district municipal model to develop and utilise performance management systems that validly assess the work performance of personnel (Hindo, 2010). Performance management system utilisation in decision making management is more related to the long-term benefits of effectiveness and efficiency than personnel appraisal for performance rewards and reporting. To overcome and address a situation of managing performance without a performance management system the study proposes a programme performance measurement and management system which incorporates information on management inputs, programme-specific data and citizens' feedback for outcomes and impact of the service. The suggested design for district-wide and specific municipal services provision elicit and provide relevant and appropriate performance information for management, decision-making and accountability to community. The effectiveness of the proposed system is to provide information for decision-making, long-term planning, strategic management and accountability reporting. The proposal is built on the exisiting method and thus efficient in the utilisation of resources. This has implications both for the theory of Public Administration and Management and the practical application of performamce management in public institutions. The study explicity provides a Public Administration perspective on management in a multi-municipal district context with different authorities. The study contributes to the theory of administrative policy and management context of the municipality with special attention to functions for which different authorities are responsible and the role of a performance system for better insught into managing overlapping authority, gaps and duplications. A central purpose of public management research is to theorise and influence practice. The practical utilisation of the proposed method is intended to assist managers and politicians with better understanding of a sustainable performance management system.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Asmah-Andoh, Kwame
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Performance standards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:8161 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1633 , Performance -- Management , Performance standards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa
- Description: This study examined the existing levels of effectiveness and efficiency in local government with the application of performance management systems in the provision of municipal services. The provision of district-wide water services in Cacadu District Municipality in the Province of the Eastern Cape, South Africa is used for particular reference. Local government reforms after 1994 led to the creation of the district municipality (which groups together a number of local municipalities) to drive district-wide services provision, the introduction of systematic services provision standards and performance management as part of management reforms in municipalities. The problem for the research deals with how the Cacadu District Council and the councils of the local municipalities within the district are collaborating in using performance management systems, what effects this could have on programmes and services provision and how communication of performance information would improve service provision. Conceptual and practical difficulties encountered in effective and efficient utilisation and some obstacles that contribute to impeding progress in the use of performance management systems in municipalities were analysed. The qualitative research included a review of documents from the public administration and management literature; discourse analysis of interviews with municipal councilors and appointed officials, community members and provincial managers. The document review included a review of municipal documents that incorporated performance management or described development and use of performance management systems. It also included the legal frameworks and statutory requirements for municipal government and administration. All the responding municipal councils within the Cacadu District Municipality reported using performance management over the past five years yet little empirical evidence explains usage for district-wide programmes and services provision. Research shows that a comprehensive performance management approach to programmes and services has a more effective and efficient impact on service improvement than utilisation of personnnel appraisal (Ammons and Rivenbark, 2005). Despite the expected benefits, personnel performance appraisal is often flawed and the need exists in the district municipal model to develop and utilise performance management systems that validly assess the work performance of personnel (Hindo, 2010). Performance management system utilisation in decision making management is more related to the long-term benefits of effectiveness and efficiency than personnel appraisal for performance rewards and reporting. To overcome and address a situation of managing performance without a performance management system the study proposes a programme performance measurement and management system which incorporates information on management inputs, programme-specific data and citizens' feedback for outcomes and impact of the service. The suggested design for district-wide and specific municipal services provision elicit and provide relevant and appropriate performance information for management, decision-making and accountability to community. The effectiveness of the proposed system is to provide information for decision-making, long-term planning, strategic management and accountability reporting. The proposal is built on the exisiting method and thus efficient in the utilisation of resources. This has implications both for the theory of Public Administration and Management and the practical application of performamce management in public institutions. The study explicity provides a Public Administration perspective on management in a multi-municipal district context with different authorities. The study contributes to the theory of administrative policy and management context of the municipality with special attention to functions for which different authorities are responsible and the role of a performance system for better insught into managing overlapping authority, gaps and duplications. A central purpose of public management research is to theorise and influence practice. The practical utilisation of the proposed method is intended to assist managers and politicians with better understanding of a sustainable performance management system.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Effectiveness of housing delivery in the Reconstruction and Development Programme in Duncan Village
- Authors: Millie, Lindile Churchill
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Housing development -- South Africa , Public housing -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24199 , vital:62441
- Description: The primary objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of Housing delivery in the Reconstruction and Development Programme in Duncan Village. This thesis has tried to answer to why there are still places like Duncan Village, situated at the heart of Buffalo City Metropolitan Local Municipality, in the Eastern Cape Province with alarming rate at which the “shanty resident” has been growing and showing no signs of coming to an end? The researcher used both qualitative and quantitative approaches in this research. The researcher conducted the research using officials from the Department of Human Settlements, officials from Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Ward Councillor, and Duncan Village community. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2012
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Millie, Lindile Churchill
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Housing development -- South Africa , Public housing -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24199 , vital:62441
- Description: The primary objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of Housing delivery in the Reconstruction and Development Programme in Duncan Village. This thesis has tried to answer to why there are still places like Duncan Village, situated at the heart of Buffalo City Metropolitan Local Municipality, in the Eastern Cape Province with alarming rate at which the “shanty resident” has been growing and showing no signs of coming to an end? The researcher used both qualitative and quantitative approaches in this research. The researcher conducted the research using officials from the Department of Human Settlements, officials from Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Ward Councillor, and Duncan Village community. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2012
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Effects of a gymnasium-based resistance training programme on selected physical fitness components in sub-elite martial artists
- Von der Marwitz, Reiner Keith
- Authors: Von der Marwitz, Reiner Keith
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Martial arts , Training , Physical fitness
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10110 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020822
- Description: The aim of the study was to explore, describe and compare the impact of a 12-week intervention on selected physical fitness variables in sub-elite martial artists. The experimental group (expG) participated in a combination of alternating dojo and gymnasium-based resistance training, each bi-weekly, with the comparison group (comG) exclusively undergoing four conventional dojo training sessions weekly. The variables measured included; anthropometric measures (height, body mass and percentage body fat); functional core muscular endurance; hamstring flexibility; upper body muscular strength and endurance; lower body muscle strength; and static balance. A quasi-experimental research design was employed, with pre - and post - test assessments after a 12 week intervention period. Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were employed from existing dojo’s in Port Elizabeth, with a randomised allocation of participants into two groups. The gymnasium-based training programme was designed according to the national conditioning and strength association (NCSA) principles of resistance training. The identified variables were tested at a 95% level of probability (p < 0.05). Similar trends in performance improvement were evident for both the expG and compG in of the majority of the selected physical fitness variables. One-way, two-sample and independent t-tests analysis found no statistical significant intra- group or inter-group differences in any of the selected dependant variables for both groups. Thus, the supplemental resistance training programme was not superior to that of the conventional dojo training programme in improving aforementioned variables. Despite the lack of statistical significance, these results indicate that a structured and supervised resistance training programme in a gymnasium may serve as an alternative method of intervention for improving physical fitness in sub-elite mixed martial artists. The resistance training programme should be specifically adapted according to the individual practitioner’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as to the type of martial art being practised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Von der Marwitz, Reiner Keith
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Martial arts , Training , Physical fitness
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10110 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020822
- Description: The aim of the study was to explore, describe and compare the impact of a 12-week intervention on selected physical fitness variables in sub-elite martial artists. The experimental group (expG) participated in a combination of alternating dojo and gymnasium-based resistance training, each bi-weekly, with the comparison group (comG) exclusively undergoing four conventional dojo training sessions weekly. The variables measured included; anthropometric measures (height, body mass and percentage body fat); functional core muscular endurance; hamstring flexibility; upper body muscular strength and endurance; lower body muscle strength; and static balance. A quasi-experimental research design was employed, with pre - and post - test assessments after a 12 week intervention period. Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were employed from existing dojo’s in Port Elizabeth, with a randomised allocation of participants into two groups. The gymnasium-based training programme was designed according to the national conditioning and strength association (NCSA) principles of resistance training. The identified variables were tested at a 95% level of probability (p < 0.05). Similar trends in performance improvement were evident for both the expG and compG in of the majority of the selected physical fitness variables. One-way, two-sample and independent t-tests analysis found no statistical significant intra- group or inter-group differences in any of the selected dependant variables for both groups. Thus, the supplemental resistance training programme was not superior to that of the conventional dojo training programme in improving aforementioned variables. Despite the lack of statistical significance, these results indicate that a structured and supervised resistance training programme in a gymnasium may serve as an alternative method of intervention for improving physical fitness in sub-elite mixed martial artists. The resistance training programme should be specifically adapted according to the individual practitioner’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as to the type of martial art being practised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Effects of altered estuarine submerged macrophyte bed cover on the omnivorous Cape stumpnose Rhabdosargus holubi
- Sheppard, Jill N, Whitfield, Alan K, Cowley, Paul D, Hill, Jaclyn M
- Authors: Sheppard, Jill N , Whitfield, Alan K , Cowley, Paul D , Hill, Jaclyn M
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/444676 , vital:74259 , https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1095-8649.2011.03197.x
- Description: The ecological importance of submerged macrophyte beds to fishes within estuaries was investigated through the example of the ubiquitous Cape stumpnose Rhabdosargus holubi, an omnivorous, vegetation and estuary‐dependent species, using stable‐isotope techniques and long‐term abundance (catch‐per‐unit‐effort) data from the East Kleinemonde Estuary, South Africa. Outputs from a Bayesian mixing model using δ13C and δ15N signatures indicated that the submerged macrophytes Ruppia cirrhosa and Potamogeton pectinatus were not a primary source of nutrition for R. holubi, confirming previous work that revealed that macrophytes are consumed but not digested. Long‐term seine netting data showed reduced abundance of R. holubi during a prolonged period of macrophyte senescence, suggesting that submerged macrophyte habitats provide shelter that reduces mortality (predation risk) and a food‐rich foraging area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Sheppard, Jill N , Whitfield, Alan K , Cowley, Paul D , Hill, Jaclyn M
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/444676 , vital:74259 , https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1095-8649.2011.03197.x
- Description: The ecological importance of submerged macrophyte beds to fishes within estuaries was investigated through the example of the ubiquitous Cape stumpnose Rhabdosargus holubi, an omnivorous, vegetation and estuary‐dependent species, using stable‐isotope techniques and long‐term abundance (catch‐per‐unit‐effort) data from the East Kleinemonde Estuary, South Africa. Outputs from a Bayesian mixing model using δ13C and δ15N signatures indicated that the submerged macrophytes Ruppia cirrhosa and Potamogeton pectinatus were not a primary source of nutrition for R. holubi, confirming previous work that revealed that macrophytes are consumed but not digested. Long‐term seine netting data showed reduced abundance of R. holubi during a prolonged period of macrophyte senescence, suggesting that submerged macrophyte habitats provide shelter that reduces mortality (predation risk) and a food‐rich foraging area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Effects of feeding Moringa Oleifera leaf meal as an additive on growth performance of chicken, physico-chemical shelf-life indicators, fatty acid profiles and lipid oxidation of broiler meat
- Authors: Wapi, Cwayita
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Moringa , Broilers (Chickens) , Meat -- Quality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11822 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007546 , Moringa , Broilers (Chickens) , Meat -- Quality
- Description: Effects of feeding Moringa oleifera leaf meal as an additive on growth performance of chicken, physico- chemical shelf-life indicators, fatty acids profiles and lipid oxidation of broiler meat The main objective of the study was to determine the effect of M.oleifera leaf meal (MOLM) as an additive on growth performance, carcass characteristics, physico-chemical shelf-life indicators (colour, ultimate pH, driploss), fatty acids profiles and lipid oxidation of meat from broilers. A total of 432 1day old unsexed broiler chicks (Aviane 48) were randomly allocated to four dietary treatments (TRTS) in 72 cages. There were 18 cages per treatment and each cage allocated 6 chicks. Water and feed was provided at ad libitum. The feeding phases were, prestarter (0-7 Days), starter (8-18 Days), grower (19-28 Days), finisher (29-35 Days). The four TRTS contained graded levels of MOLM at 1000g/ton, 750g/ton, 500g/ton, and 0g/ton (control), respectively. The birds were slaughtered at 35 days of age. Breast muscles were sampled for meat, ultimate pH (pHu ), colour, drip loss over a 7 days shelf-life test. After each day’s test sub-samples were dipped in liquid nitrogen and kept at -180 C for thiobarbituric acid reactive substances determination. On Day1 and Day 7 extra sub-samples were also kept at -180 C for fatty acids analysis.The TRTS had no effect on average feed intake (AFI), feed conversion efficiency (FCE), and on average daily gain (ADG). Slaughter weight (SW), carcass weight (CW), dressing percentage and gizzard weight (GW) values were similar in all TRTS. Liver weight (LW), heart weight (HW), and gastro-intestinal fat (GIF) differed in all the TRTS, with treatment 2 having the highest value of HW (28.3±2.55), and LW (44.2±1.60) was the highest on treatment 4 . The pH values in all TRTS were constant from Day1 to Day5, reached peak on Day6, and then declined on Day7. Meat from broilers given treatment 1 with MOLM (1000g/ton) had the highest lightness (L*) values. The redness (a*) values were the highest in meat from treatment 2 (750g/ton MOLM). Treatments had no effect on yellowness (b*) values and on drip loss of the breasts. During storage L* values were high from Day1 to Day5 and decreased from Day6 to Day7. Drip loss increased with storage time as expected. Treatment 4 (control) had the highest proportions of poly-unsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) (30.3±1.87). Treatment 1 (1000g/ton) had the highest proportion of saturated fatty acids (SFA) (60.9±1.87). Treatment 1 (1000g/ton) had the highest proportion of SFA (60.9±4.30). Treatment 2 (750g/ton) had the highest n-6/n-3 ratio than other TRTS. Days had no effect (P>0.05) on PUFA, SFA, and n-6/n-3 ratio. Treatment 1 had a highest amount of malondialdehyde (MDA), treatment 4 had no effect (P>0.05) on MDA . Storage time had an effect (P<0.05) on MDA levels, except for on Day1 and Day7. Day2 had the highest amount of MDA (0.7±0.08). The use of MOLM as an additive in broiler diets reduced lipid oxidation in meat, and maintained the quality of the broiler meat during storage. It also did not have any adverse effects on the growth performance of broilers. Therefore, it has the potential to be used as an additive in broiler diets.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Wapi, Cwayita
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Moringa , Broilers (Chickens) , Meat -- Quality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11822 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007546 , Moringa , Broilers (Chickens) , Meat -- Quality
- Description: Effects of feeding Moringa oleifera leaf meal as an additive on growth performance of chicken, physico- chemical shelf-life indicators, fatty acids profiles and lipid oxidation of broiler meat The main objective of the study was to determine the effect of M.oleifera leaf meal (MOLM) as an additive on growth performance, carcass characteristics, physico-chemical shelf-life indicators (colour, ultimate pH, driploss), fatty acids profiles and lipid oxidation of meat from broilers. A total of 432 1day old unsexed broiler chicks (Aviane 48) were randomly allocated to four dietary treatments (TRTS) in 72 cages. There were 18 cages per treatment and each cage allocated 6 chicks. Water and feed was provided at ad libitum. The feeding phases were, prestarter (0-7 Days), starter (8-18 Days), grower (19-28 Days), finisher (29-35 Days). The four TRTS contained graded levels of MOLM at 1000g/ton, 750g/ton, 500g/ton, and 0g/ton (control), respectively. The birds were slaughtered at 35 days of age. Breast muscles were sampled for meat, ultimate pH (pHu ), colour, drip loss over a 7 days shelf-life test. After each day’s test sub-samples were dipped in liquid nitrogen and kept at -180 C for thiobarbituric acid reactive substances determination. On Day1 and Day 7 extra sub-samples were also kept at -180 C for fatty acids analysis.The TRTS had no effect on average feed intake (AFI), feed conversion efficiency (FCE), and on average daily gain (ADG). Slaughter weight (SW), carcass weight (CW), dressing percentage and gizzard weight (GW) values were similar in all TRTS. Liver weight (LW), heart weight (HW), and gastro-intestinal fat (GIF) differed in all the TRTS, with treatment 2 having the highest value of HW (28.3±2.55), and LW (44.2±1.60) was the highest on treatment 4 . The pH values in all TRTS were constant from Day1 to Day5, reached peak on Day6, and then declined on Day7. Meat from broilers given treatment 1 with MOLM (1000g/ton) had the highest lightness (L*) values. The redness (a*) values were the highest in meat from treatment 2 (750g/ton MOLM). Treatments had no effect on yellowness (b*) values and on drip loss of the breasts. During storage L* values were high from Day1 to Day5 and decreased from Day6 to Day7. Drip loss increased with storage time as expected. Treatment 4 (control) had the highest proportions of poly-unsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) (30.3±1.87). Treatment 1 (1000g/ton) had the highest proportion of saturated fatty acids (SFA) (60.9±1.87). Treatment 1 (1000g/ton) had the highest proportion of SFA (60.9±4.30). Treatment 2 (750g/ton) had the highest n-6/n-3 ratio than other TRTS. Days had no effect (P>0.05) on PUFA, SFA, and n-6/n-3 ratio. Treatment 1 had a highest amount of malondialdehyde (MDA), treatment 4 had no effect (P>0.05) on MDA . Storage time had an effect (P<0.05) on MDA levels, except for on Day1 and Day7. Day2 had the highest amount of MDA (0.7±0.08). The use of MOLM as an additive in broiler diets reduced lipid oxidation in meat, and maintained the quality of the broiler meat during storage. It also did not have any adverse effects on the growth performance of broilers. Therefore, it has the potential to be used as an additive in broiler diets.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Effects of patch-size on populations of intertidal limpets, Siphonaria spp., in a linear landscape
- Cole, Victoria J, Johnson, Linda G, McQuaid, Christopher D
- Authors: Cole, Victoria J , Johnson, Linda G , McQuaid, Christopher D
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6845 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011050
- Description: Organisms with different life-histories and abilities to disperse often utilise habitat patches in different ways. We investigated the influence of the size of patches of rock (separated by stretches of sand) on the density of pulmonate limpets (Siphonaria spp.) along 1500 km of the linear landscape of the South African coastline. We compared the influence of patch-size on two congeneric species with different modes of development, S. serrata a direct developer, and S. concinna a planktonic developer. We tested the spatial and temporal consistency of the effects of patch-size by sampling 7 independent regions spanning the distributional range of both species of limpets, and by sampling one region at monthly intervals for 1 year. Within each region or month, 4 small patches (<20 m in length) interspersed with the 4 large patches (>60 m in length) were sampled. Across the entire geographic range and throughout the year, there were more of both species of limpets in large patches than in small patches. In most regions, there was greater variability in large patches than small patches. Variability within patches in a single region was similar throughout the year, with greater variability of both species in large than in small patches. We found little influence of the mode of development on the response of limpets to patch-size. Our findings highlight the importance of understanding patterns of distribution of species with respect to habitat heterogeneity in linear landscapes, and contradict the idea that organism mobility at an early ontogenetic stage directly affects habitat use.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Cole, Victoria J , Johnson, Linda G , McQuaid, Christopher D
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6845 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011050
- Description: Organisms with different life-histories and abilities to disperse often utilise habitat patches in different ways. We investigated the influence of the size of patches of rock (separated by stretches of sand) on the density of pulmonate limpets (Siphonaria spp.) along 1500 km of the linear landscape of the South African coastline. We compared the influence of patch-size on two congeneric species with different modes of development, S. serrata a direct developer, and S. concinna a planktonic developer. We tested the spatial and temporal consistency of the effects of patch-size by sampling 7 independent regions spanning the distributional range of both species of limpets, and by sampling one region at monthly intervals for 1 year. Within each region or month, 4 small patches (<20 m in length) interspersed with the 4 large patches (>60 m in length) were sampled. Across the entire geographic range and throughout the year, there were more of both species of limpets in large patches than in small patches. In most regions, there was greater variability in large patches than small patches. Variability within patches in a single region was similar throughout the year, with greater variability of both species in large than in small patches. We found little influence of the mode of development on the response of limpets to patch-size. Our findings highlight the importance of understanding patterns of distribution of species with respect to habitat heterogeneity in linear landscapes, and contradict the idea that organism mobility at an early ontogenetic stage directly affects habitat use.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Effects of pre-slaughter sheep handling and animal-related factors on creatine kinase levels and physico-chemical attributes of mutton
- Authors: Chulayo, Amanda Yucca
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Sheep -- South Africa , Mutton , Slaughtering and slaughter-houses -- South Africa , Creatine -- Physiological effect
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11810 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/433 , Sheep -- South Africa , Mutton , Slaughtering and slaughter-houses -- South Africa , Creatine -- Physiological effect
- Description: Effects of pre-slaughter sheep handling and animal-related factors on Creatine Kinase levels and physico-chemical attributes of mutton By Chulayo Amanda Yucca The objective of the study was to determine the effects of pre-slaughter sheep handling and animal-related factors on Creatine kinase (CK) levels and physico-chemical characteristics of mutton from South African sheep breeds. One hundred and seventy-three castrated male sheep from four breeds (15 Dormer, 46 South African Mutton Merino, 77 Dorper and 35 Blackhead Persian) were used. The animals were grouped according to age categories. The grouping was as follows: Group 1 (6 ≤ 8 months), Group 2 (9 ≤ 12 months) and Group 3 (13 ≤ 16 months). Blood samples for CK determination were collected at exanguination using disposable vacutainer tubes. Representative samples of the Muscularis longissimuss thoracis et. lumborum (LTL) muscle were taken for the determination of ultimate pH (pHu), colour (L*-lightness, b*- redness and a*- yellowness), thawing and cooking losses and meat tenderness. Significant (P<0.01) breed effects were observed on CK levels with Dormer having the highest CK values. Significant linear relationships were observed between pre-slaughter condition and CK levels. There were positive correlations between colour coordinates L* and b* (r =+0.22) and between a* and b* (r =+0.63). Cooking loss and Warner Braztler Shear Force (WBSF) values were positively correlated (r =+0.29). The Principal Component Analysis (PCA) showed a significant variance for CK and between physico-chemical characteristics of mutton. There were no relationships between CK levels and physico-chemical characteristics of mutton. Significant breed and age effects on pHu, L, a*, b*, thaw %, CL and WBSF of mutton were observed. iv It was concluded that, pre-slaughter conditions affect CK levels and physico-chemical characteristics of mutton. However, there were no relationships between CK levels and physico-chemical characteristics of mutton.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Chulayo, Amanda Yucca
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Sheep -- South Africa , Mutton , Slaughtering and slaughter-houses -- South Africa , Creatine -- Physiological effect
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11810 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/433 , Sheep -- South Africa , Mutton , Slaughtering and slaughter-houses -- South Africa , Creatine -- Physiological effect
- Description: Effects of pre-slaughter sheep handling and animal-related factors on Creatine Kinase levels and physico-chemical attributes of mutton By Chulayo Amanda Yucca The objective of the study was to determine the effects of pre-slaughter sheep handling and animal-related factors on Creatine kinase (CK) levels and physico-chemical characteristics of mutton from South African sheep breeds. One hundred and seventy-three castrated male sheep from four breeds (15 Dormer, 46 South African Mutton Merino, 77 Dorper and 35 Blackhead Persian) were used. The animals were grouped according to age categories. The grouping was as follows: Group 1 (6 ≤ 8 months), Group 2 (9 ≤ 12 months) and Group 3 (13 ≤ 16 months). Blood samples for CK determination were collected at exanguination using disposable vacutainer tubes. Representative samples of the Muscularis longissimuss thoracis et. lumborum (LTL) muscle were taken for the determination of ultimate pH (pHu), colour (L*-lightness, b*- redness and a*- yellowness), thawing and cooking losses and meat tenderness. Significant (P<0.01) breed effects were observed on CK levels with Dormer having the highest CK values. Significant linear relationships were observed between pre-slaughter condition and CK levels. There were positive correlations between colour coordinates L* and b* (r =+0.22) and between a* and b* (r =+0.63). Cooking loss and Warner Braztler Shear Force (WBSF) values were positively correlated (r =+0.29). The Principal Component Analysis (PCA) showed a significant variance for CK and between physico-chemical characteristics of mutton. There were no relationships between CK levels and physico-chemical characteristics of mutton. Significant breed and age effects on pHu, L, a*, b*, thaw %, CL and WBSF of mutton were observed. iv It was concluded that, pre-slaughter conditions affect CK levels and physico-chemical characteristics of mutton. However, there were no relationships between CK levels and physico-chemical characteristics of mutton.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Efficacy of organic and synthetic insecticides on the control of cotton pests: The bollworm complex, Helicoverpa armigera, Diparopsis castanea, Earias insulana (Noctuidae) and the leafhopper, Jacobiell
- Malinga, Lawrence Nkosikhona
- Authors: Malinga, Lawrence Nkosikhona
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Zoology)
- Identifier: vital:11791 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006798
- Description: A research was conducted on cotton to test different plant extracts with potential insecticidal properties against bollworms (Noctuidae) and leafhoppers (Cicadellidae) for the use by small-scale, cotton farmers. The study was carried out during the 2006/07 and 2007/08 seasons at ARC Institute for Industrial Crops, Rustenburg (25°39.0 S, 27°14.4 E) in the North West Province of South Africa. Four organic insecticides, tobacco (Nicotiana tabacium), khaki weed (Tagetes minuta), thorn apple (Datura stramonium) and garlic (Allium sativum) were compared with two chemical treatments, Mospilan® (acetamiprid) and Decis® (deltamethrin), and an untreated control. The cultivar, DeltaOPAL, was planted and the trial conducted using standard practices. Overall, Decis® and tobacco treatments exhibited significantly less bollworm larvae than the other treatments. Tobacco was the most promising biological pesticide against American bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera) and spiny bollworm (Earias insulana) larvae. All the treatments were significantly effective against the red bollworm (Diparopsis castanea) larvae, but Decis® and Mospilan® provided the best control. Although khaki weed, garlic and thorn apple were promising biological pesticides against the bollworm complex, tobacco was the most effective organic treatment. Mospilan® seemed to be more effective on the control of leafhoppers (Jacobiella fascialis), followed by Decis® and tobacco. Among the plant extracts, tobacco and garlic gave higher seed cotton yields compared to the khaki weed and thorn apple during both study seasons. In 2006/07, none of the treatments reached the corresponding economic threshold levels (ETLs). In contrast, in 2007/08, only rarely were the treatments (mostly Decis® and Mospilan®) below the corresponding ETLs. These differences were attributed to the higher rainfall recorded during the 2007/08 season, which reduced the effectiveness of the treatments by partly washing away the pesticidal applications. In addition, a high weed infestation also created competition for nutrients in the soil, thus resulting in lower (0.50-1.25 ton/ha in 2007/08 vs 2.50-5.00 ton/ha in 2006/07), but acceptable cotton seed yields. In conclusion, it is suggested that some plant extracts (particularly from tobacco and garlic) can be used as a cheaper and more environment-friendly alternative to chemical insecticides for the control of bollworms and leafhoppers, although it has been demonstrated that their efficacy do not reach the one of chemical treatments. Further research in the near future is recommended.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Malinga, Lawrence Nkosikhona
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Zoology)
- Identifier: vital:11791 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006798
- Description: A research was conducted on cotton to test different plant extracts with potential insecticidal properties against bollworms (Noctuidae) and leafhoppers (Cicadellidae) for the use by small-scale, cotton farmers. The study was carried out during the 2006/07 and 2007/08 seasons at ARC Institute for Industrial Crops, Rustenburg (25°39.0 S, 27°14.4 E) in the North West Province of South Africa. Four organic insecticides, tobacco (Nicotiana tabacium), khaki weed (Tagetes minuta), thorn apple (Datura stramonium) and garlic (Allium sativum) were compared with two chemical treatments, Mospilan® (acetamiprid) and Decis® (deltamethrin), and an untreated control. The cultivar, DeltaOPAL, was planted and the trial conducted using standard practices. Overall, Decis® and tobacco treatments exhibited significantly less bollworm larvae than the other treatments. Tobacco was the most promising biological pesticide against American bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera) and spiny bollworm (Earias insulana) larvae. All the treatments were significantly effective against the red bollworm (Diparopsis castanea) larvae, but Decis® and Mospilan® provided the best control. Although khaki weed, garlic and thorn apple were promising biological pesticides against the bollworm complex, tobacco was the most effective organic treatment. Mospilan® seemed to be more effective on the control of leafhoppers (Jacobiella fascialis), followed by Decis® and tobacco. Among the plant extracts, tobacco and garlic gave higher seed cotton yields compared to the khaki weed and thorn apple during both study seasons. In 2006/07, none of the treatments reached the corresponding economic threshold levels (ETLs). In contrast, in 2007/08, only rarely were the treatments (mostly Decis® and Mospilan®) below the corresponding ETLs. These differences were attributed to the higher rainfall recorded during the 2007/08 season, which reduced the effectiveness of the treatments by partly washing away the pesticidal applications. In addition, a high weed infestation also created competition for nutrients in the soil, thus resulting in lower (0.50-1.25 ton/ha in 2007/08 vs 2.50-5.00 ton/ha in 2006/07), but acceptable cotton seed yields. In conclusion, it is suggested that some plant extracts (particularly from tobacco and garlic) can be used as a cheaper and more environment-friendly alternative to chemical insecticides for the control of bollworms and leafhoppers, although it has been demonstrated that their efficacy do not reach the one of chemical treatments. Further research in the near future is recommended.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Electrocatalytic behavior of cobalt phthalocyanine complexes immobilized on glassy carbon electrode towards the reduction of dicrotophos pesticide
- Vilakazi, Sibulelo, Nyokong, Tebello, Fukuda, Takamitsu, Kobayashi, Nagao
- Authors: Vilakazi, Sibulelo , Nyokong, Tebello , Fukuda, Takamitsu , Kobayashi, Nagao
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/245832 , vital:51409 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1142/S1088424612501040"
- Description: Electrocatalytic properties of cobalt phthalocyanine (CoPc), cobalt tetra-carboxy phthalocyanine (CoTCPc) and cobalt octa-carboxy (CoOCPc), towards the detection of dicrotophos have been studied. Catalytic behavior towards the reduction of dicrotophos was found to be dependent on the pH, as well as the substitution on the phthalocyanine ring. Strong electron withdrawing groups on the phthalocyanine ring yielded best catalysis as evidenced by the enhancement of the reduction peak current, (~5 fold) compared to the bare glassy carbon electrode. The analysis gave a good detection limit of 1.25 × 10-7 M, and good linearity for the studied concentration range. A high Tafel slope value was obtained, indicating a strong interaction between dicrotophos and the cobalt phthalocyanine complex.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Vilakazi, Sibulelo , Nyokong, Tebello , Fukuda, Takamitsu , Kobayashi, Nagao
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/245832 , vital:51409 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1142/S1088424612501040"
- Description: Electrocatalytic properties of cobalt phthalocyanine (CoPc), cobalt tetra-carboxy phthalocyanine (CoTCPc) and cobalt octa-carboxy (CoOCPc), towards the detection of dicrotophos have been studied. Catalytic behavior towards the reduction of dicrotophos was found to be dependent on the pH, as well as the substitution on the phthalocyanine ring. Strong electron withdrawing groups on the phthalocyanine ring yielded best catalysis as evidenced by the enhancement of the reduction peak current, (~5 fold) compared to the bare glassy carbon electrode. The analysis gave a good detection limit of 1.25 × 10-7 M, and good linearity for the studied concentration range. A high Tafel slope value was obtained, indicating a strong interaction between dicrotophos and the cobalt phthalocyanine complex.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Electrochemical sensing and immunosensing using metallophthalocyanines and biomolecular modified surfaces
- Authors: Mashazi, Philani Nkosinathi
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Electrochemistry , Electrodes, Enzyme , Measles -- Measurement
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5580 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1018248
- Description: The synthesis of cobalt and manganese phthalocyanine complexes bearing eight hexylthio and four amino substituents was carried out. The formation of thin films of these complexes using different modification methods was also studied. Hexylthio functionalized metallophthalocyanine complexes were immobilized onto gold electrode surfaces using the self-assembly techniques. Surface modifications using cobalt and manganese tetraamino phthalocyanine as polymers, monolayers (onto electrografted surfaces) and as carbon nanotube – metallophthalocyanine conjugates was also carried out. The new method of modifying gold electrodes with metal tetraamino phthalocyanine complexes was investigated. The modified electrode surfaces were studied for their electrocatalytic properties and as potential electrochemical sensors for the detection of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). The limits of detection for the H₂O₂ were of the orders of ~10⁻⁷ M for all the modified electrodes. The modified electrodes gave very good analytical parameters; such as good sensitivity, linearity at studied concentration range and well-defined analytical peaks with increased current densities. The modification methods were reproducible, highly conducting thin films were formed and the modified electrodes were very stable. The design of electrochemical immunosensors for the detection of measles-specific antibodies was also carried out. The modified surface with measles-antigen as sensing element was accomplished using covalent immobilization for an intimate connection of the measles-antigen as a sensing layer onto an electrode surface. Two methods of detecting measles-specific antibodies were investigated and these methods were based on electrochemical impedance, i.e. label-free detection, and voltammetric method using horse-radish peroxidase (HRP) labeled antibody as a reporter. The detection of measles-specific antibodies was accomplished using both these methods. The potential applications of the designed immunosensor were evaluated in real samples (human and newborn calf serum) and the electrodes could detect the antibodies in the complex sample matrix with ease.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Mashazi, Philani Nkosinathi
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Electrochemistry , Electrodes, Enzyme , Measles -- Measurement
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5580 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1018248
- Description: The synthesis of cobalt and manganese phthalocyanine complexes bearing eight hexylthio and four amino substituents was carried out. The formation of thin films of these complexes using different modification methods was also studied. Hexylthio functionalized metallophthalocyanine complexes were immobilized onto gold electrode surfaces using the self-assembly techniques. Surface modifications using cobalt and manganese tetraamino phthalocyanine as polymers, monolayers (onto electrografted surfaces) and as carbon nanotube – metallophthalocyanine conjugates was also carried out. The new method of modifying gold electrodes with metal tetraamino phthalocyanine complexes was investigated. The modified electrode surfaces were studied for their electrocatalytic properties and as potential electrochemical sensors for the detection of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). The limits of detection for the H₂O₂ were of the orders of ~10⁻⁷ M for all the modified electrodes. The modified electrodes gave very good analytical parameters; such as good sensitivity, linearity at studied concentration range and well-defined analytical peaks with increased current densities. The modification methods were reproducible, highly conducting thin films were formed and the modified electrodes were very stable. The design of electrochemical immunosensors for the detection of measles-specific antibodies was also carried out. The modified surface with measles-antigen as sensing element was accomplished using covalent immobilization for an intimate connection of the measles-antigen as a sensing layer onto an electrode surface. Two methods of detecting measles-specific antibodies were investigated and these methods were based on electrochemical impedance, i.e. label-free detection, and voltammetric method using horse-radish peroxidase (HRP) labeled antibody as a reporter. The detection of measles-specific antibodies was accomplished using both these methods. The potential applications of the designed immunosensor were evaluated in real samples (human and newborn calf serum) and the electrodes could detect the antibodies in the complex sample matrix with ease.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012