An investigation into the effects of nano-carbons on the negative electrode morphology of lead acid batteries under high rate partial state of capacity cycling
- Authors: Bolo, Lukanyo
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53324 , vital:45132
- Description: New technological developments in the field of Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV’s), vehicle stop-start applications and electrical power utility devices have brought about new demands on the use of energy storage devices such as the Pb-acid battery. These applications require a new understanding and research into the material chemistry of the battery where it has to functionin a Partial State of Capacity Cycling (PSoCC) or High Rate Partial State of Capacity Cycling (HRPSoCC)duty. The Pb-acid battery is well known for its use in the automotive industry where it had worked for decades as a typical Starter, Lighting and Ignition (SLI) power source. However, the conventional Pb-acid battery is not suitable for the new types of vehicle demands and applications. When the Pb-lead acid battery is subjected to PSoCC conditions, very quickly excessive amount of non-conducting PbSO4crystals are formed on the negative plates of the battery that then drastically reduce its useful life in application. Over the years, researchers have shown that the small addition of certain carbon types to the negative plate active material (NAM) during battery manufacturing can reduce the sulfation effect thereby increasing its use the modern vehicle applications. This study investigated industrial manufactured cells that contained up to 0.5 % by weight two types of carbons in the NAM. These were compared to standard built cells in terms of their standard achievable capacities at various rates, their Cold Cranking Ability (CCA), their Dynamic Charge Acceptance (DCA) and a simplified PSoCC test. The carbons were classified as an activated carbon and a carbon nano-fiber and were included as a dry weight additive during the standard paste manufacturing process of the negative plate. Cells were built with a 9-plate configuration using standard expanded grid positive plates with a nominal rated capacity of 36 Ah. The cells were formed and subjected to a number of electrochemical tests, of which selected negative plates were then studied using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Electrochemical in-situ Atomic Force Microscopy (EC-AFM). The microscopic study was then used to try and relate the observed material characteristics of the NAM with the carbons to the electrochemical results observed when testing a built cell. , Thesis (MA) --Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Bolo, Lukanyo
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53324 , vital:45132
- Description: New technological developments in the field of Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV’s), vehicle stop-start applications and electrical power utility devices have brought about new demands on the use of energy storage devices such as the Pb-acid battery. These applications require a new understanding and research into the material chemistry of the battery where it has to functionin a Partial State of Capacity Cycling (PSoCC) or High Rate Partial State of Capacity Cycling (HRPSoCC)duty. The Pb-acid battery is well known for its use in the automotive industry where it had worked for decades as a typical Starter, Lighting and Ignition (SLI) power source. However, the conventional Pb-acid battery is not suitable for the new types of vehicle demands and applications. When the Pb-lead acid battery is subjected to PSoCC conditions, very quickly excessive amount of non-conducting PbSO4crystals are formed on the negative plates of the battery that then drastically reduce its useful life in application. Over the years, researchers have shown that the small addition of certain carbon types to the negative plate active material (NAM) during battery manufacturing can reduce the sulfation effect thereby increasing its use the modern vehicle applications. This study investigated industrial manufactured cells that contained up to 0.5 % by weight two types of carbons in the NAM. These were compared to standard built cells in terms of their standard achievable capacities at various rates, their Cold Cranking Ability (CCA), their Dynamic Charge Acceptance (DCA) and a simplified PSoCC test. The carbons were classified as an activated carbon and a carbon nano-fiber and were included as a dry weight additive during the standard paste manufacturing process of the negative plate. Cells were built with a 9-plate configuration using standard expanded grid positive plates with a nominal rated capacity of 36 Ah. The cells were formed and subjected to a number of electrochemical tests, of which selected negative plates were then studied using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Electrochemical in-situ Atomic Force Microscopy (EC-AFM). The microscopic study was then used to try and relate the observed material characteristics of the NAM with the carbons to the electrochemical results observed when testing a built cell. , Thesis (MA) --Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
An investigation into the role of lesson study in developing teachers’ mathematics content and pedagogical content knowledge
- Authors: Kgothego, Naomi Ntsae
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Elementary) -- South Africa -- Bojanala Platinum District Municipality , Pedagogical content knowledge , Lesson planning -- South Africa -- Bojanala Platinum District Municipality , Mathematics teachers -- Training of -- South Africa -- Bojanala Platinum District Municipality , South Africa. Department of Basic Education , Kokusai Kyōryoku Jigyōdan
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178019 , vital:42899
- Description: Results of international assessments conducted with South African learners, both in primary and secondary schools, suggest that South African learners underperform in mathematics (Spaull, 2013). While there are numerous explanations for this, one of the key explanations is that teachers are deemed to have inadequate knowledge of both mathematics content and pedagogy. Poor content and pedagogical knowledge are indications that teachers are not adequately trained to teach mathematics (Green, 2011). To improve teachers' content and pedagogical knowledge, well-planned and researched professional development programmes need to be put in place. Current professional development opportunities that centre on workshops are not working as they provide little opportunity for teachers to connect the workshop content to the contexts in which they teach. Through a collaboration between the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and Japan International Corporation Agency (JICA), the Lesson Study approach is being introduced to support teachers' professional development. This research seeks to research this approach within the context of Foundation Phase mathematics education. The research asks: How does Lesson Study contribute to the development of teachers' mathematics content and pedagogical content knowledge? Two sub-questions were developed to support the main question: • What mathematics content knowledge do teachers develop as the engage in LS? • What pedagogical content knowledge do teachers develop as they engage in LS? Using a qualitative interpretivist case study approach, I worked collaboratively with four Grade 1 teachers from two schools. Data was generated through observations, semi-structured interviews and document analysis as we engaged in the Lesson Study process. The Mathematics Knowledge for Teaching (Ball, Thames & Phelps, 2008) and the Knowledge Quartet (Rowland, Turner, Thwaites & Huckstep, 2009) frameworks were used as analytic and explanatory tools in this research. This study's findings showed that participation in the interactive cycles of Lesson Study developed the teachers’ confidence, their pedagogical content knowledge and skills and provided them with the opportunity to collaborate and reflect on their knowledge. The study's findings suggest that lesson study can be used as a strategy for improving teacher professional development. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, Education, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Kgothego, Naomi Ntsae
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Elementary) -- South Africa -- Bojanala Platinum District Municipality , Pedagogical content knowledge , Lesson planning -- South Africa -- Bojanala Platinum District Municipality , Mathematics teachers -- Training of -- South Africa -- Bojanala Platinum District Municipality , South Africa. Department of Basic Education , Kokusai Kyōryoku Jigyōdan
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178019 , vital:42899
- Description: Results of international assessments conducted with South African learners, both in primary and secondary schools, suggest that South African learners underperform in mathematics (Spaull, 2013). While there are numerous explanations for this, one of the key explanations is that teachers are deemed to have inadequate knowledge of both mathematics content and pedagogy. Poor content and pedagogical knowledge are indications that teachers are not adequately trained to teach mathematics (Green, 2011). To improve teachers' content and pedagogical knowledge, well-planned and researched professional development programmes need to be put in place. Current professional development opportunities that centre on workshops are not working as they provide little opportunity for teachers to connect the workshop content to the contexts in which they teach. Through a collaboration between the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and Japan International Corporation Agency (JICA), the Lesson Study approach is being introduced to support teachers' professional development. This research seeks to research this approach within the context of Foundation Phase mathematics education. The research asks: How does Lesson Study contribute to the development of teachers' mathematics content and pedagogical content knowledge? Two sub-questions were developed to support the main question: • What mathematics content knowledge do teachers develop as the engage in LS? • What pedagogical content knowledge do teachers develop as they engage in LS? Using a qualitative interpretivist case study approach, I worked collaboratively with four Grade 1 teachers from two schools. Data was generated through observations, semi-structured interviews and document analysis as we engaged in the Lesson Study process. The Mathematics Knowledge for Teaching (Ball, Thames & Phelps, 2008) and the Knowledge Quartet (Rowland, Turner, Thwaites & Huckstep, 2009) frameworks were used as analytic and explanatory tools in this research. This study's findings showed that participation in the interactive cycles of Lesson Study developed the teachers’ confidence, their pedagogical content knowledge and skills and provided them with the opportunity to collaborate and reflect on their knowledge. The study's findings suggest that lesson study can be used as a strategy for improving teacher professional development. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, Education, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
An investigation into the use of a consumer incentive to encourage recycling in South Africa
- Authors: Conway, John Charles
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Recycling (Waste, etc.) -- Economic aspects , Consumption (Economics) -- South Africa , Consumer behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51096 , vital:43208
- Description: The focus of this study is the factors that influence recycling behaviours, particularly whether incentives are likely to change consumers’ recycling behaviours in South Africa. Africa is said to become the most polluted continent within a few decades. Three of the largest metropoles in South African are likely to run out of landfill space within the next ten years. Waste streams provide considerable opportunity if waste can be safely collected and either reused, recycled, or recovered, but extracting value from the waste streams is costly and difficult. Consumers need to separate waste at source to improve the efficacy of the recycling stream, yet South Africans do not separate waste at source as a norm. The question that arises then is would an incentive improve South Africans’ willingness to recycle? This study tried to determine if incentives are likely to change consumers’ recycling behaviours in South Africa. It explored the relationship between factors that influence recycling behaviours grounded in Taylor and Todd's (1995) extension of Ajzen's (1991) Theory Of Planned Behaviour. A quantitative survey design, using both online and face to face questionnaires, was used to collect data from a cross section of randomly selected consumers. The research determines that the call to address waste management infrastructure and facilities, is indeed correct. It further confirms previous research findings that an incentive alone is not enough to change recycling behaviours as it will not negate other environmental factors. Lower income groups are more conscientious about recycling and may be enticed to participate in the recycling industry through an incentive to improve their income. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Conway, John Charles
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Recycling (Waste, etc.) -- Economic aspects , Consumption (Economics) -- South Africa , Consumer behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51096 , vital:43208
- Description: The focus of this study is the factors that influence recycling behaviours, particularly whether incentives are likely to change consumers’ recycling behaviours in South Africa. Africa is said to become the most polluted continent within a few decades. Three of the largest metropoles in South African are likely to run out of landfill space within the next ten years. Waste streams provide considerable opportunity if waste can be safely collected and either reused, recycled, or recovered, but extracting value from the waste streams is costly and difficult. Consumers need to separate waste at source to improve the efficacy of the recycling stream, yet South Africans do not separate waste at source as a norm. The question that arises then is would an incentive improve South Africans’ willingness to recycle? This study tried to determine if incentives are likely to change consumers’ recycling behaviours in South Africa. It explored the relationship between factors that influence recycling behaviours grounded in Taylor and Todd's (1995) extension of Ajzen's (1991) Theory Of Planned Behaviour. A quantitative survey design, using both online and face to face questionnaires, was used to collect data from a cross section of randomly selected consumers. The research determines that the call to address waste management infrastructure and facilities, is indeed correct. It further confirms previous research findings that an incentive alone is not enough to change recycling behaviours as it will not negate other environmental factors. Lower income groups are more conscientious about recycling and may be enticed to participate in the recycling industry through an incentive to improve their income. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
An investigation of support services available for black female owners of bed & breakfasts in Makhanda
- Authors: Mdluli, Lukhona Silubonile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Bed and breakfast accommodations -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Businesspeople, Black -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Business enterprises, Black -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Women-owned business enterprises -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Government aid to small business -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Racism -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Businesswomen -- South Africa -- Makhanda
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177181 , vital:42797
- Description: Over the last 26 years, the South African government has committed to SMME development. To do this, policies and support institutions were put in place which would create a favourable environment for SMME development. This was particularly important as after 1994, when the South African economy was re-integrated into global markets after years of having sanctions imposed against the country as a result of the apartheid system. The tourism industry was identified as one of the key economic drivers which would strengthen the economy and assist in job creation, especially since South Africa would be able to attract international tourists. Further, it created the opportunity for new participants to enter the industry, including black entrepreneurs who previously could not enter the industry as a result of the apartheid laws. The opening up of the country to international markets and the focus on the tourism industry also presented the opportunity for new forms of tourism to be explored including township tourism, which gave rise to the black-owned bed & breakfast sector. Over time, it has become evident that black entrepreneurs in this sector are facing a number of challenges, in spite of the pro-SMME policies and support institutions that are in place. Because this study seeks to investigate the support services available for black female bed & breakfast owners in Makhanda, a qualitative research approach using the interpretative theoretical framework was applied. By using semi-structured interview questions, to establish what challenges do black female bed and breakfast owners face the researcher was able to respond to the following; what participants identify as their needs; and whether they are able to access the support services that are made available by the Government. Results indicated that the majority of entrepreneurs have difficulty accessing funding to develop their businesses. The seasonality of Grahamstown/ Makhanda tourism businesses has its pros and cons for tourism entrepreneurs. Despite efforts by government to transform the tourism industry, black female entrepreneurs in this industry still experience a myriad of challenges, including passive racism. Insufficient institutional support and inaccessible support services for women have made it difficult to manage in this this environment. Thus, a recommendation is put forward for female focused entrepreneurship policy, which is more responsive in terms of a judicial and legal system(s) aimed at addressing women’s particular needs and challenges. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mdluli, Lukhona Silubonile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Bed and breakfast accommodations -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Businesspeople, Black -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Business enterprises, Black -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Women-owned business enterprises -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Government aid to small business -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Racism -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Businesswomen -- South Africa -- Makhanda
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177181 , vital:42797
- Description: Over the last 26 years, the South African government has committed to SMME development. To do this, policies and support institutions were put in place which would create a favourable environment for SMME development. This was particularly important as after 1994, when the South African economy was re-integrated into global markets after years of having sanctions imposed against the country as a result of the apartheid system. The tourism industry was identified as one of the key economic drivers which would strengthen the economy and assist in job creation, especially since South Africa would be able to attract international tourists. Further, it created the opportunity for new participants to enter the industry, including black entrepreneurs who previously could not enter the industry as a result of the apartheid laws. The opening up of the country to international markets and the focus on the tourism industry also presented the opportunity for new forms of tourism to be explored including township tourism, which gave rise to the black-owned bed & breakfast sector. Over time, it has become evident that black entrepreneurs in this sector are facing a number of challenges, in spite of the pro-SMME policies and support institutions that are in place. Because this study seeks to investigate the support services available for black female bed & breakfast owners in Makhanda, a qualitative research approach using the interpretative theoretical framework was applied. By using semi-structured interview questions, to establish what challenges do black female bed and breakfast owners face the researcher was able to respond to the following; what participants identify as their needs; and whether they are able to access the support services that are made available by the Government. Results indicated that the majority of entrepreneurs have difficulty accessing funding to develop their businesses. The seasonality of Grahamstown/ Makhanda tourism businesses has its pros and cons for tourism entrepreneurs. Despite efforts by government to transform the tourism industry, black female entrepreneurs in this industry still experience a myriad of challenges, including passive racism. Insufficient institutional support and inaccessible support services for women have made it difficult to manage in this this environment. Thus, a recommendation is put forward for female focused entrepreneurship policy, which is more responsive in terms of a judicial and legal system(s) aimed at addressing women’s particular needs and challenges. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
An investigation of the views of Catholic Church musicians in the Diocese of Port Elizabeth on the use of the pipe organ in the liturgy
- Authors: Mowatt, Simon Charles
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Church musicians -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Catholic Church
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53500 , vital:45168
- Description: As an organist and Catholic musician, I have an interest in exploring the role of, as well as attitudes towards, the pipe organ in the liturgy in the Catholic parishes in South Africa. Among both Christian and secular newspapers, headlines paint a picture of a decline in the use of the organ in churches and the number of organists in the world today (The Canadian Press, 2012). By conducting this study, my goal was to better understand this phenomenon in the context of my local diocese of Port Elizabeth. , Thesis (MMus) -- Faculty of Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mowatt, Simon Charles
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Church musicians -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Catholic Church
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53500 , vital:45168
- Description: As an organist and Catholic musician, I have an interest in exploring the role of, as well as attitudes towards, the pipe organ in the liturgy in the Catholic parishes in South Africa. Among both Christian and secular newspapers, headlines paint a picture of a decline in the use of the organ in churches and the number of organists in the world today (The Canadian Press, 2012). By conducting this study, my goal was to better understand this phenomenon in the context of my local diocese of Port Elizabeth. , Thesis (MMus) -- Faculty of Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Anisotropic copper oxide nanorods decorated with gold and palladium nanoparticles and their enzymatic properties
- Authors: Sicwetsha, Simbongile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: To be added
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178547 , vital:42949
- Description: Access restricted until April 2023. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Chemistry, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Sicwetsha, Simbongile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: To be added
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178547 , vital:42949
- Description: Access restricted until April 2023. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Chemistry, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Antibiotics combination therapy option for the control of antimicrobial-resistant non-cholera causing Vibrio species recovered from environmental niches of Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Ayodele, Oluwakemi Victoria
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Drug resistance in microorganisms , Vibrio cholerae
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20396 , vital:45661
- Description: Increased rate of antibiotic resistance (AR) poses a serious threat with a resultant notion of a possible end of the antibiotics era, making it a problem of concern to public health and a great implication on the world economy and human society. Despite many approaches developed to curb this menace, antibiotics resistance is still a challenge worldwide. This has made the use of combined therapy as one of the options in many cases. This study was conducted to assess antibiotics combination therapy as an option for the control of antimicrobial-resistant non-cholera causing Vibrio species that were recovered from the environment in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Two hundred and twenty-eight Vibrio species were recovered from the environment in the Province, and these were deposited in the archive of AEMREG. PCR was used to identify target Vibrio species. Disc diffusion method was used to evaluate the antibiotic susceptibility profile of the confirmed isolates against 11 antibiotics commonly used against infections. MIC and MBC were determined using antibiotics (imipenem, tetracycline, and nalidixic acid) that high resistance was discovered. Checkerboard assay was used to carry out antibiotics combination assay, and the FICI was calculated. Rate of kill was also determined using ½ × MIC, 1 × MIC, and 2 × MIC concentrations of the combined antibiotics at 2 hr intervals. One hundred of the isolates were confirmed to be Vibrio parahaemolyticus, 82 were Vibrio vulnificus and 46 were Vibrio fluvialis. Twenty-two (22) percent of the Vibrio parahaemolyticus isolates showed resistance against tetracycline and their resistance against other antimicrobials is as follows; nalidixic acid (16 percent), ampicillin (14 percent), cefotaxime (14 percent), chloramphenicol (12 percent) and amikacin (11 percent). For Vibrio vulnificus, prevalence of resistance was as follows: imipenem (40 percent), tetracycline (22 percent), ampicillin (18 percent), meropenem (15 percent), and chloramphenicol (11 percent). Vibrio fluvialis showed the following resistance profile: nalidixic acid (28 percent), tetracycline (28percent), ampicillin (20 percent), chloramphenicol (15 percent), amikacin (11 percent) and cefotaxime (11 percent). About 38 multiple antibiotic resistance phenotypes (MARP) were recorded in all species that were evaluated. About 23 percent were resistant to over 3 antibiotics used. The multiple antibiotic resistant indices (MARI) ranged between 0.3 and 0.8. MIC and MBC were carried against isolates that were resistant to the two most common antibiotics tested. MIC and MBC were determined in the following order: tetracycline and nalidixic acid at concentrations ranging from 16 μg/ml to 1024 μg/ml for Vibrio parahaemolyticus and 32 μg/ml to 2048 μg/ml for Vibrio fluvialis. Also, the MIC and MBC of imipenem and tetracycline at concentrations ranging from 8 μg/ml to 256 μg/ml for Vibrio vulnificus were determined. Antibiotics combination therapy was carried out and synergistic activity was observed in 3 of the 16 resistant V. parahaemolyticus isolates, 3 of the16 resistant V. vulnificus isolates and 2 of the 13 resistant V. fluvialis isolates. Antagonism was not observed across all the drug combinations. Rate of kill was also determined and at 6 hr exposure time, the highest concentration (2 × MIC) exhibited bactericidal effect across all three Vibrio species. The result derived in this research, therefore, propose that combination therapy is a promising solution to antimicrobial resistance in Vibrio species. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Ayodele, Oluwakemi Victoria
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Drug resistance in microorganisms , Vibrio cholerae
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20396 , vital:45661
- Description: Increased rate of antibiotic resistance (AR) poses a serious threat with a resultant notion of a possible end of the antibiotics era, making it a problem of concern to public health and a great implication on the world economy and human society. Despite many approaches developed to curb this menace, antibiotics resistance is still a challenge worldwide. This has made the use of combined therapy as one of the options in many cases. This study was conducted to assess antibiotics combination therapy as an option for the control of antimicrobial-resistant non-cholera causing Vibrio species that were recovered from the environment in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Two hundred and twenty-eight Vibrio species were recovered from the environment in the Province, and these were deposited in the archive of AEMREG. PCR was used to identify target Vibrio species. Disc diffusion method was used to evaluate the antibiotic susceptibility profile of the confirmed isolates against 11 antibiotics commonly used against infections. MIC and MBC were determined using antibiotics (imipenem, tetracycline, and nalidixic acid) that high resistance was discovered. Checkerboard assay was used to carry out antibiotics combination assay, and the FICI was calculated. Rate of kill was also determined using ½ × MIC, 1 × MIC, and 2 × MIC concentrations of the combined antibiotics at 2 hr intervals. One hundred of the isolates were confirmed to be Vibrio parahaemolyticus, 82 were Vibrio vulnificus and 46 were Vibrio fluvialis. Twenty-two (22) percent of the Vibrio parahaemolyticus isolates showed resistance against tetracycline and their resistance against other antimicrobials is as follows; nalidixic acid (16 percent), ampicillin (14 percent), cefotaxime (14 percent), chloramphenicol (12 percent) and amikacin (11 percent). For Vibrio vulnificus, prevalence of resistance was as follows: imipenem (40 percent), tetracycline (22 percent), ampicillin (18 percent), meropenem (15 percent), and chloramphenicol (11 percent). Vibrio fluvialis showed the following resistance profile: nalidixic acid (28 percent), tetracycline (28percent), ampicillin (20 percent), chloramphenicol (15 percent), amikacin (11 percent) and cefotaxime (11 percent). About 38 multiple antibiotic resistance phenotypes (MARP) were recorded in all species that were evaluated. About 23 percent were resistant to over 3 antibiotics used. The multiple antibiotic resistant indices (MARI) ranged between 0.3 and 0.8. MIC and MBC were carried against isolates that were resistant to the two most common antibiotics tested. MIC and MBC were determined in the following order: tetracycline and nalidixic acid at concentrations ranging from 16 μg/ml to 1024 μg/ml for Vibrio parahaemolyticus and 32 μg/ml to 2048 μg/ml for Vibrio fluvialis. Also, the MIC and MBC of imipenem and tetracycline at concentrations ranging from 8 μg/ml to 256 μg/ml for Vibrio vulnificus were determined. Antibiotics combination therapy was carried out and synergistic activity was observed in 3 of the 16 resistant V. parahaemolyticus isolates, 3 of the16 resistant V. vulnificus isolates and 2 of the 13 resistant V. fluvialis isolates. Antagonism was not observed across all the drug combinations. Rate of kill was also determined and at 6 hr exposure time, the highest concentration (2 × MIC) exhibited bactericidal effect across all three Vibrio species. The result derived in this research, therefore, propose that combination therapy is a promising solution to antimicrobial resistance in Vibrio species. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Assessing the employee talent retention strategy at the industrial development corporation
- Authors: Madondo, Lungile Sharon
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Employee retention -- South Africa , Labor turnover -- South Africa , Personnel management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51798 , vital:43373
- Description: Successful employee retention is essential to an organisation’s stability, growth and revenue. Without properly implemented employee retention strategies, the organisation may face high employee turnover rates. An increased longevity of an employee’s tenure is better for the organisation’s overall performance. This study sought to evaluate the factors affecting employee retention at the IDC. To enhance the success of the study, the research objective was to assess the relationship between five HR factors and employee retention within the IDC. The study used a descriptive survey research design. The sampling method used for this study was convenience sampling. A questionnaire was used for data collection. The researcher cleansed and coded the data, whilst a statistician entered the collected data into STATISTICA. The data was analysed descriptively and also by means of inferential analysis method that is. The descriptive data was presented in the format of pie charts and tables with percentages, means and standard deviations as measures for distribution mechanisms. While inferential analysis presented the regression in table formats but with a clear indication of significant levels and adjusted R-square for all the independent variables. The sample that participated in this study consisted of 288 respondents from the IDC. Empirical findings revealed that the working environment, work-life balance, compensation and employee engagement positively influenced employee retention. Career development was not significantly related to employee retention. The study concluded and made recommendations to four stakeholders, namely the government to have roadshows and marketing activities to promote the Skills Development Act and skills Levies Act, IDC to review their employee retention strategy, Managers or Supervisors to support their employees by providing market related salary packages and provide session where they engage the employees in the organisations developments, and the HR Practitioners must ensure that the right fit of candidates are recruited to the organisation. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences , Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Madondo, Lungile Sharon
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Employee retention -- South Africa , Labor turnover -- South Africa , Personnel management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51798 , vital:43373
- Description: Successful employee retention is essential to an organisation’s stability, growth and revenue. Without properly implemented employee retention strategies, the organisation may face high employee turnover rates. An increased longevity of an employee’s tenure is better for the organisation’s overall performance. This study sought to evaluate the factors affecting employee retention at the IDC. To enhance the success of the study, the research objective was to assess the relationship between five HR factors and employee retention within the IDC. The study used a descriptive survey research design. The sampling method used for this study was convenience sampling. A questionnaire was used for data collection. The researcher cleansed and coded the data, whilst a statistician entered the collected data into STATISTICA. The data was analysed descriptively and also by means of inferential analysis method that is. The descriptive data was presented in the format of pie charts and tables with percentages, means and standard deviations as measures for distribution mechanisms. While inferential analysis presented the regression in table formats but with a clear indication of significant levels and adjusted R-square for all the independent variables. The sample that participated in this study consisted of 288 respondents from the IDC. Empirical findings revealed that the working environment, work-life balance, compensation and employee engagement positively influenced employee retention. Career development was not significantly related to employee retention. The study concluded and made recommendations to four stakeholders, namely the government to have roadshows and marketing activities to promote the Skills Development Act and skills Levies Act, IDC to review their employee retention strategy, Managers or Supervisors to support their employees by providing market related salary packages and provide session where they engage the employees in the organisations developments, and the HR Practitioners must ensure that the right fit of candidates are recruited to the organisation. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences , Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Baculovirus synergism for improved management of false codling moth Thaumatotibia leucotreta Meyr. (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)
- Authors: Taylor, David Graham
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Baculoviruses , Cryptophlebia leucotreta , Cryptophlebia leucotreta -- Biological control , Biological pest control agents , Citrus -- Diseases and pests , Codling moth , Cryptophlebia peltastica nucleopolyhedrovirus (CrpeNPV)
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/176942 , vital:42774
- Description: Baculoviruses are an environmentally friendly and effective agent for managing lepidopteran pests. This includes the management of Thaumatotibia leucotreta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), a serious pest of citrus in Southern Africa and a major threat to the South African citrus export industry. For more than 15 years, CrleGV-SA- based biopesticides have been used as part of an integrated pest management strategy for the control of T. leucotreta in citrus orchards in South Africa, under the names Cryptogran™ and Cryptex®. While these biopesticides have been effective during this period, there are some areas in which baculovirus use could potentially be improved. Baculoviruses are notoriously slow to kill in comparison to chemical-based pesticides, and lately, pest resistance to baculoviruses has become a major concern with the development of resistance by Cydia pomonella (Linnaeus) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) to its granulovirus occurring in the field in Europe. The consistent use of CrleGV-SA for more than 15 years in the field has raised concern that T. leucotreta could develop resistance to this virus, and has made it necessary to alter baculovirus-based management strategies to prevent this from occurring. A second baculovirus, Cryptophlebia peltastica nucleopolyhedrovirus (CrpeNPV), has recently been isolated and was shown to be effective against T. leucotreta. However, the interactions between CrleGV-SA and CrpeNPV are not yet understood and so it is important to test these interactions before both viruses are applied on the same orchards. Not only is it important to know whether these viruses could negatively impact each other, but it is also important to test whether they could interact synergistically. A synergistic interaction could not only provide a potential tool for the management of resistance, but it could also be exploited to improve baculovirus-based management of T. leucotreta. In this study, a stock of CrleGV-SA was purified by glycerol gradient centrifugation from T. leucotreta cadavers, while a stock of CrpeNPV purified from Cryptophlebia peltastica (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) cadavers was provided by River Bioscience (Pty) Ltd. These stocks were screened for purity by a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (mPCR) protocol designed to detect CrleGV-SA and CrpeNPV. The occlusion body (OB) density was then calculated using darkfield microscopy and a counting chamber. Both stocks were shown to be pure within the limits of the mPCR protocol, and the CrleGV-SA and CrpeNPV stocks were calculated to contain 3.08 × 1011 OBs/mL and 1.92 × 1011 OBs/mL respectively The first aspect of the interaction between CrleGV-SA and CrpeNPV that was investigated was the dose mortality, in terms of lethal concentration. This was calculated using 7-day surface-dose biological assays for each virus and a 1:1 mixture of OBs of the two against T. leucotreta neonates. The lethal concentrations of each treatment required to kill 50 % of larvae (LC50) and 90 % of larvae (LC90) for each treatment were then calculated and compared using a probit regression. The mixed infection performed significantly better than either virus by itself, while each virus by itself did not differ significantly from the other. The LC50 for CrleGV-SA, CrpeNPV and the mixed infection were 1.53 × 104 OBs/mL, 1.15 × 104 OBs/mL and 4.38 × 103 OBs/mL respectively. The LC90 of CrleGV-SA, CrpeNPV and the mixed infection were calculated to be 4.10 × 105 OBs/mL, 1.05 × 105 OBs/mL, and 4.09 × 104 OBs/mL respectively. The second aspect of the interaction between CrleGV-SA and CrpeNPV that was investigated was the speed of kill. A time-response biological assay protocol was created that allowed for effective observation of the larvae. This was then used to generate time-mortality data that were analysed by a logit regression function to calculate and compare the treatments at the time of 50 % larval mortality (LT50) and the time of 90 % mortality (LT90). Each virus by itself did not differ significantly from the other, while the mixed infection took significantly longer to kill 50 % and 90 % of the larvae, suggesting that there is competition for resources between viruses during the secondary, systemic phase of infection. The LT50 for CrleGV-SA, CrpeNPV and the mixed infection were 117.5 hours, 113.5 hours and 139.0 hours respectively. The LT90 for CrleGV-SA, CrpeNPV and the mixed infection were 153.2 hours, 159.3, and 193.4 hours respectively. Finally, the composition of OBs recovered from the cadavers produced by the time-response biological assays were investigated by mPCR. A method for extracting gDNA from OBs in neonate-sized T. leucotreta larvae is described. The presence of CrpeNPV along with CrleGV-SA was noted in 4 out of 9 larvae inoculated with only CrleGV-SA. The presence of CrleGV-SA as well as CrpeNPV was noted in all but one larva inoculated with only CrpeNPV, and both CrleGV-SA and CrpeNPV were noted in all but one larva inoculated with a 1:1 mixture of the two, with one larva only being positive for CrleGV-SA. This suggests either stock contamination or the presence of covert infections of CrleGV-SA and CrpeNPV in the T. leucotreta population used in this study. This is the second study to report an improved lethal concentration of a mixed infection of CrleGV-SA and CrpeNPV against T. leucotreta neonates, and the first study to report the slower speed of kill of a mixed infection of CrleGV-SA and CrpeNPV against T. leucotreta neonates. While the improved lethal concentration of the mixed infection is a promising step in the future improvement of baculovirus-based biopesticides, it is at the cost of a slower speed of kill. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Department of Zoology and Entomology, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Taylor, David Graham
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Baculoviruses , Cryptophlebia leucotreta , Cryptophlebia leucotreta -- Biological control , Biological pest control agents , Citrus -- Diseases and pests , Codling moth , Cryptophlebia peltastica nucleopolyhedrovirus (CrpeNPV)
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/176942 , vital:42774
- Description: Baculoviruses are an environmentally friendly and effective agent for managing lepidopteran pests. This includes the management of Thaumatotibia leucotreta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), a serious pest of citrus in Southern Africa and a major threat to the South African citrus export industry. For more than 15 years, CrleGV-SA- based biopesticides have been used as part of an integrated pest management strategy for the control of T. leucotreta in citrus orchards in South Africa, under the names Cryptogran™ and Cryptex®. While these biopesticides have been effective during this period, there are some areas in which baculovirus use could potentially be improved. Baculoviruses are notoriously slow to kill in comparison to chemical-based pesticides, and lately, pest resistance to baculoviruses has become a major concern with the development of resistance by Cydia pomonella (Linnaeus) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) to its granulovirus occurring in the field in Europe. The consistent use of CrleGV-SA for more than 15 years in the field has raised concern that T. leucotreta could develop resistance to this virus, and has made it necessary to alter baculovirus-based management strategies to prevent this from occurring. A second baculovirus, Cryptophlebia peltastica nucleopolyhedrovirus (CrpeNPV), has recently been isolated and was shown to be effective against T. leucotreta. However, the interactions between CrleGV-SA and CrpeNPV are not yet understood and so it is important to test these interactions before both viruses are applied on the same orchards. Not only is it important to know whether these viruses could negatively impact each other, but it is also important to test whether they could interact synergistically. A synergistic interaction could not only provide a potential tool for the management of resistance, but it could also be exploited to improve baculovirus-based management of T. leucotreta. In this study, a stock of CrleGV-SA was purified by glycerol gradient centrifugation from T. leucotreta cadavers, while a stock of CrpeNPV purified from Cryptophlebia peltastica (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) cadavers was provided by River Bioscience (Pty) Ltd. These stocks were screened for purity by a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (mPCR) protocol designed to detect CrleGV-SA and CrpeNPV. The occlusion body (OB) density was then calculated using darkfield microscopy and a counting chamber. Both stocks were shown to be pure within the limits of the mPCR protocol, and the CrleGV-SA and CrpeNPV stocks were calculated to contain 3.08 × 1011 OBs/mL and 1.92 × 1011 OBs/mL respectively The first aspect of the interaction between CrleGV-SA and CrpeNPV that was investigated was the dose mortality, in terms of lethal concentration. This was calculated using 7-day surface-dose biological assays for each virus and a 1:1 mixture of OBs of the two against T. leucotreta neonates. The lethal concentrations of each treatment required to kill 50 % of larvae (LC50) and 90 % of larvae (LC90) for each treatment were then calculated and compared using a probit regression. The mixed infection performed significantly better than either virus by itself, while each virus by itself did not differ significantly from the other. The LC50 for CrleGV-SA, CrpeNPV and the mixed infection were 1.53 × 104 OBs/mL, 1.15 × 104 OBs/mL and 4.38 × 103 OBs/mL respectively. The LC90 of CrleGV-SA, CrpeNPV and the mixed infection were calculated to be 4.10 × 105 OBs/mL, 1.05 × 105 OBs/mL, and 4.09 × 104 OBs/mL respectively. The second aspect of the interaction between CrleGV-SA and CrpeNPV that was investigated was the speed of kill. A time-response biological assay protocol was created that allowed for effective observation of the larvae. This was then used to generate time-mortality data that were analysed by a logit regression function to calculate and compare the treatments at the time of 50 % larval mortality (LT50) and the time of 90 % mortality (LT90). Each virus by itself did not differ significantly from the other, while the mixed infection took significantly longer to kill 50 % and 90 % of the larvae, suggesting that there is competition for resources between viruses during the secondary, systemic phase of infection. The LT50 for CrleGV-SA, CrpeNPV and the mixed infection were 117.5 hours, 113.5 hours and 139.0 hours respectively. The LT90 for CrleGV-SA, CrpeNPV and the mixed infection were 153.2 hours, 159.3, and 193.4 hours respectively. Finally, the composition of OBs recovered from the cadavers produced by the time-response biological assays were investigated by mPCR. A method for extracting gDNA from OBs in neonate-sized T. leucotreta larvae is described. The presence of CrpeNPV along with CrleGV-SA was noted in 4 out of 9 larvae inoculated with only CrleGV-SA. The presence of CrleGV-SA as well as CrpeNPV was noted in all but one larva inoculated with only CrpeNPV, and both CrleGV-SA and CrpeNPV were noted in all but one larva inoculated with a 1:1 mixture of the two, with one larva only being positive for CrleGV-SA. This suggests either stock contamination or the presence of covert infections of CrleGV-SA and CrpeNPV in the T. leucotreta population used in this study. This is the second study to report an improved lethal concentration of a mixed infection of CrleGV-SA and CrpeNPV against T. leucotreta neonates, and the first study to report the slower speed of kill of a mixed infection of CrleGV-SA and CrpeNPV against T. leucotreta neonates. While the improved lethal concentration of the mixed infection is a promising step in the future improvement of baculovirus-based biopesticides, it is at the cost of a slower speed of kill. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Department of Zoology and Entomology, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Barriers and reasons for exercise of rural and urban overweight and obese populations in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mrwebi, Thembani
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Obesity--Prevention , Public health--Exercise
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22522 , vital:52388
- Description: It is documented that obesity is highly prevalent across rural and urban groups in industrialised and underdeveloped countries. This problem is an alarming issue as community members remain unsure about avoiding risking their health. Various health surveys reveal that obesity has increased among communities in the Buffalo City Metro Municipality in the Eastern Cape, and it has consequently made communities vulnerable to non-communicable diseases. The researcher explored factors and barriers of exercise for rural and urban obese populations in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape. This study was descriptive and explorative, utilising a questionnaire for gathering information. A purposive sample of 80 members from the two selected communities completed the questionnaire. A factor analysis was performed to identify factors that motivate physical activity and barriers to physical activity. It was discovered that all evaluated members were fully aware of the harmful repercussions of being overweight or obese. Nevertheless, only a tiny percentage of those who took part in the study decided to live a healthier lifestyle because of their obesity. Constructive motivating factors included increasing their self-image, enhancing their wellbeing, and getting highly involved in active and regular exercise. Negative motivators included finding it challenging to fit into old clothes and the worry of developing obesity-related diseases. Respondents noted the following impediments in regular exercises and physical activities; African cultural values, limited operational hours of physical activity facilities, insufficient time, and a lack of enthusiasm. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mrwebi, Thembani
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Obesity--Prevention , Public health--Exercise
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22522 , vital:52388
- Description: It is documented that obesity is highly prevalent across rural and urban groups in industrialised and underdeveloped countries. This problem is an alarming issue as community members remain unsure about avoiding risking their health. Various health surveys reveal that obesity has increased among communities in the Buffalo City Metro Municipality in the Eastern Cape, and it has consequently made communities vulnerable to non-communicable diseases. The researcher explored factors and barriers of exercise for rural and urban obese populations in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape. This study was descriptive and explorative, utilising a questionnaire for gathering information. A purposive sample of 80 members from the two selected communities completed the questionnaire. A factor analysis was performed to identify factors that motivate physical activity and barriers to physical activity. It was discovered that all evaluated members were fully aware of the harmful repercussions of being overweight or obese. Nevertheless, only a tiny percentage of those who took part in the study decided to live a healthier lifestyle because of their obesity. Constructive motivating factors included increasing their self-image, enhancing their wellbeing, and getting highly involved in active and regular exercise. Negative motivators included finding it challenging to fit into old clothes and the worry of developing obesity-related diseases. Respondents noted the following impediments in regular exercises and physical activities; African cultural values, limited operational hours of physical activity facilities, insufficient time, and a lack of enthusiasm. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Bayesian tolerance intervals and their application to ballistic grouping consistency in competitive shooting
- Authors: Gardiner, Marcell
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Bayesian statistical decision theory -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52456 , vital:43662
- Description: Competitive shooting has become immensely popular since the first modern Games held in 1896. Competitive shooting remains the fastest growing segment in the firearm industry, catering to individuals of all ages. Elite shooters are capable of reaching extreme levels of precision and accuracy, despite many factors existing that affect performance in Olympic shooting. One such factor is speed variability, which is dependent on the mass of the bullet, how constant is the lead being used, and, how constant the gunpowder is. The study focusses on the Bayesian simulation method proposed by Wolfinger (1998) for determining three kinds of tolerance intervals when applied to competitive shooting data, particularly examining speed variability. These tolerance intervals included the (𝛼𝛼,𝛿𝛿) tolerance interval (where 𝛼𝛼 is the content and 𝛿𝛿 is the confidence), the 𝛼𝛼 - expectation tolerance interval (where 𝛼𝛼 is the expected coverage of the interval) and the fixed-in advance tolerance interval in which the interval is held fixed and the proportion of process measurements it contains, is estimated. Speed measurements of individual shots fired were measured with either an Oeler 35P or Magneto Speed V3 chronograph and the data was fitted to a one-way random effects model. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Gardiner, Marcell
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Bayesian statistical decision theory -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52456 , vital:43662
- Description: Competitive shooting has become immensely popular since the first modern Games held in 1896. Competitive shooting remains the fastest growing segment in the firearm industry, catering to individuals of all ages. Elite shooters are capable of reaching extreme levels of precision and accuracy, despite many factors existing that affect performance in Olympic shooting. One such factor is speed variability, which is dependent on the mass of the bullet, how constant is the lead being used, and, how constant the gunpowder is. The study focusses on the Bayesian simulation method proposed by Wolfinger (1998) for determining three kinds of tolerance intervals when applied to competitive shooting data, particularly examining speed variability. These tolerance intervals included the (𝛼𝛼,𝛿𝛿) tolerance interval (where 𝛼𝛼 is the content and 𝛿𝛿 is the confidence), the 𝛼𝛼 - expectation tolerance interval (where 𝛼𝛼 is the expected coverage of the interval) and the fixed-in advance tolerance interval in which the interval is held fixed and the proportion of process measurements it contains, is estimated. Speed measurements of individual shots fired were measured with either an Oeler 35P or Magneto Speed V3 chronograph and the data was fitted to a one-way random effects model. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Best practice psychosocial–cultural care guideline for primary caregivers of couples in the Talensi and Nabdam districts of Ghana experiencing infertility
- Authors: Kuug, Anthony Kolsabilik
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Caregivers -- Infertility -- Ghana , Couples -- Infertility -- Ghana
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51264 , vital:43258
- Description: Infertility remains a major clinical and social problem, affecting approximately one in every ten couples. The implications of infertility range from physical abuse to denial of family property, divorce, psychological problems, such as withdrawal, anxiety and depression to social isolation, scorn, rejection and stigmatisation. The health of infertile couples needs holistic attention because, while their medical and surgical needs are addressed to correct physical and physiological barriers of infertility, their psychological and emotive needs, which constitute the psychosocial aspects of infertility, need to be addressed as well. The current study explored and described the experiences of couples with infertility and primary caregivers who rendered care to couples. The study aimed to develop a best practice psychosocial-cultural care guideline for primary caregivers to enhance the management of couples experiencing infertility in Talensi and Nabdam districts of the Upper East Region in Ghana. The study followed a qualitative design while making use of explorative, descriptive contextual and interpretive ethnographic approaches. The research populations comprised couples experiencing infertility and the primary caregivers who cared for them, consisting of public health nurses and midwives. The research study comprised three phases. In Phase 1, semi-structured interviews, narrative sketching and storytelling were used to collect data on experiences of couples with infertility while semi-structured interviews were used to explore and describe the experiences of primary caregivers who cared for them. The interviews were transcribed and analysed using Tesch’s eight steps of data analysis to make sense of the data collected. The researcher ensured the validity of the study by conforming to the Lincoln and Guba’s approach to trustworthiness by using an independent coder to validate the researcher’s coding. In Phase 2, an integrative literature review was conducted to identify previous guidelines and systematic reviews regarding psychosocial–cultural care of infertility. Relevant guidelines and reviews were selected and critically appraised. Data were extracted and synthesised for the development of a best practice guideline for psychosocial–cultural care of couples experiencing infertility. An independent appraiser critically appraised relevant guidelines to ensure trustworthiness. In phase 3, the findings of Phases 1 and 2 were integrated to formulate a draft best practice guideline for psychosocial–cultural care of couples experiencing infertility. The guideline was reviewed by a six-member expert panel and modified based on their recommendations, suggestions and comments leading to the finalisation of the best practice psychosocial–cultural care guideline for primary caregivers of couples experiencing infertility in the Talensi and Nabdam districts in Ghana. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Kuug, Anthony Kolsabilik
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Caregivers -- Infertility -- Ghana , Couples -- Infertility -- Ghana
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51264 , vital:43258
- Description: Infertility remains a major clinical and social problem, affecting approximately one in every ten couples. The implications of infertility range from physical abuse to denial of family property, divorce, psychological problems, such as withdrawal, anxiety and depression to social isolation, scorn, rejection and stigmatisation. The health of infertile couples needs holistic attention because, while their medical and surgical needs are addressed to correct physical and physiological barriers of infertility, their psychological and emotive needs, which constitute the psychosocial aspects of infertility, need to be addressed as well. The current study explored and described the experiences of couples with infertility and primary caregivers who rendered care to couples. The study aimed to develop a best practice psychosocial-cultural care guideline for primary caregivers to enhance the management of couples experiencing infertility in Talensi and Nabdam districts of the Upper East Region in Ghana. The study followed a qualitative design while making use of explorative, descriptive contextual and interpretive ethnographic approaches. The research populations comprised couples experiencing infertility and the primary caregivers who cared for them, consisting of public health nurses and midwives. The research study comprised three phases. In Phase 1, semi-structured interviews, narrative sketching and storytelling were used to collect data on experiences of couples with infertility while semi-structured interviews were used to explore and describe the experiences of primary caregivers who cared for them. The interviews were transcribed and analysed using Tesch’s eight steps of data analysis to make sense of the data collected. The researcher ensured the validity of the study by conforming to the Lincoln and Guba’s approach to trustworthiness by using an independent coder to validate the researcher’s coding. In Phase 2, an integrative literature review was conducted to identify previous guidelines and systematic reviews regarding psychosocial–cultural care of infertility. Relevant guidelines and reviews were selected and critically appraised. Data were extracted and synthesised for the development of a best practice guideline for psychosocial–cultural care of couples experiencing infertility. An independent appraiser critically appraised relevant guidelines to ensure trustworthiness. In phase 3, the findings of Phases 1 and 2 were integrated to formulate a draft best practice guideline for psychosocial–cultural care of couples experiencing infertility. The guideline was reviewed by a six-member expert panel and modified based on their recommendations, suggestions and comments leading to the finalisation of the best practice psychosocial–cultural care guideline for primary caregivers of couples experiencing infertility in the Talensi and Nabdam districts in Ghana. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Bioethical analysis of selected biomedical issues in South Africa and other countries
- Authors: Rusere, Jean
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: To be added
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178530 , vital:42948
- Description: Access restricted until April 2023. , Thesis (MPharm) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacy, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Rusere, Jean
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: To be added
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178530 , vital:42948
- Description: Access restricted until April 2023. , Thesis (MPharm) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacy, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Biology, ecology and management of the Keurboom moth, Leto venus Cramer and the leafhopper Molopopterus sp. Jacobi in cultivated Honeybush (Cyclopia spp.)
- Authors: Mushore, Tapiwa Gift
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Legumes , Legumes -- Diseases and pests , Hepialidae , Leafhoppers , Pests -- Biological control , Entomopathogenic fungi , Leafhoppers -- Biological control , Hepialidae -- Biological control , Keurboom moth (Leto venus Cramer) , Molopopterus sp. Jacobi , Honeybush (Cyclopia spp.)
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177125 , vital:42792
- Description: Honeybush, Cyclopia spp. Vent (Fabaceae), farmers have raised pest concerns following commercial cultivation. The Keurboom moth Leto venus Cramer (Lepidoptera: Hepialidae) and the leafhopper Molopopterus sp. Jacobi (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), are two of the major pests identified in cultivated Honeybush. Laboratory and field studies were conducted to gain an understanding of the biology of these two pests to inform future pest management solutions. Additionally, entomopathogenic fungi were isolated from Honeybush farms and screened for virulence against Molopopterus sp. as a possible management strategy. This study showed that the L. venus infestation on Honeybush was a product of four fixed effects; stem diameter, species of Cyclopia, Farm location and age of the plants. Cyclopia subternata, had the highest likelihood of infestation. Increase in age of the plants resulted in an increase in the stem diameter and therefore a higher probability of infestation. Stem diameter was also shown to be a significant predictor of infestation likelihood. Infestation severity, determined by the number of larvae per plant, was shown to be influenced by three fixed effects; stem diameter, plant species and Farm location. The results also showed that L. venus prefers to initiate penetration at, or just aboveground level. Laboratory studies showed that the leafhopper Molopopterus sp. undergoes five nymphal instars with an average egg incubation time of 20 days, development time from 1st instar to adult of 26 days and average generation time of 47 days. Laboratory experiments revealed variations in host preference by the leafhopper over a period of 15 days. Cyclopia longifolia was identified to be the most preferred species for feeding compared to the two other commonly cultivated species, C. subternata and C. maculata. The results were consistent with those obtained from the field survey which showed that leafhopper density was influenced by four fixed effects; plant species, age of the plant, Farm location and harvesting practices. There were significant differences in leafhopper density in different species with C. longifolia having the highest number of leafhoppers per plant. There were differences in leafhopper density in different farms as 57% of the sampled farms had leafhopper infestations, of these farms, Lodestone and Kurland had the highest leafhopper densities. Harvested plants were shown to have significantly higher leafhopper density than non-harvested plants. Age was also shown to influence leafhopper density, which reduced with an increase in the age of the plants. A total of 20 fungal isolates were recovered from 98 soil samples of which 70% were from Honeybush fields and 30% were from surrounding refugia. Fusarium oxysporum isolates comprised 20% of the recovered isolates, with Metarhizium anisopliae isolates making up the remainder. Laboratory bioassays against adults and nymphs of the leafhopper, Molopopterus sp., showed that F. oxysporum isolates induced 10 – 45% mortality and M. anisopliae isolates induce 30 – 80% mortality. Metarhizium anisopliae isolates J S1, KF S3, KF S11, KF S13, LS1 and LS2 were the most virulent and induced over 60% mortality in both Molopopterus sp. nymphs and adults. The results of this study showed pest preference towards different Cyclopia species. As such, they should be managed differently. Furthermore, L. venus was observed to occur in low densities, hence, it cannot be considered a major pest. However, Molopopterus sp. recorded high population densities making it a major pest in Honeybush production. Positive results indicated that some of the isolated fungal isolates have potential for control, an avenue worth investigating further. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Department of Zoology and Entomology, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mushore, Tapiwa Gift
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Legumes , Legumes -- Diseases and pests , Hepialidae , Leafhoppers , Pests -- Biological control , Entomopathogenic fungi , Leafhoppers -- Biological control , Hepialidae -- Biological control , Keurboom moth (Leto venus Cramer) , Molopopterus sp. Jacobi , Honeybush (Cyclopia spp.)
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177125 , vital:42792
- Description: Honeybush, Cyclopia spp. Vent (Fabaceae), farmers have raised pest concerns following commercial cultivation. The Keurboom moth Leto venus Cramer (Lepidoptera: Hepialidae) and the leafhopper Molopopterus sp. Jacobi (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), are two of the major pests identified in cultivated Honeybush. Laboratory and field studies were conducted to gain an understanding of the biology of these two pests to inform future pest management solutions. Additionally, entomopathogenic fungi were isolated from Honeybush farms and screened for virulence against Molopopterus sp. as a possible management strategy. This study showed that the L. venus infestation on Honeybush was a product of four fixed effects; stem diameter, species of Cyclopia, Farm location and age of the plants. Cyclopia subternata, had the highest likelihood of infestation. Increase in age of the plants resulted in an increase in the stem diameter and therefore a higher probability of infestation. Stem diameter was also shown to be a significant predictor of infestation likelihood. Infestation severity, determined by the number of larvae per plant, was shown to be influenced by three fixed effects; stem diameter, plant species and Farm location. The results also showed that L. venus prefers to initiate penetration at, or just aboveground level. Laboratory studies showed that the leafhopper Molopopterus sp. undergoes five nymphal instars with an average egg incubation time of 20 days, development time from 1st instar to adult of 26 days and average generation time of 47 days. Laboratory experiments revealed variations in host preference by the leafhopper over a period of 15 days. Cyclopia longifolia was identified to be the most preferred species for feeding compared to the two other commonly cultivated species, C. subternata and C. maculata. The results were consistent with those obtained from the field survey which showed that leafhopper density was influenced by four fixed effects; plant species, age of the plant, Farm location and harvesting practices. There were significant differences in leafhopper density in different species with C. longifolia having the highest number of leafhoppers per plant. There were differences in leafhopper density in different farms as 57% of the sampled farms had leafhopper infestations, of these farms, Lodestone and Kurland had the highest leafhopper densities. Harvested plants were shown to have significantly higher leafhopper density than non-harvested plants. Age was also shown to influence leafhopper density, which reduced with an increase in the age of the plants. A total of 20 fungal isolates were recovered from 98 soil samples of which 70% were from Honeybush fields and 30% were from surrounding refugia. Fusarium oxysporum isolates comprised 20% of the recovered isolates, with Metarhizium anisopliae isolates making up the remainder. Laboratory bioassays against adults and nymphs of the leafhopper, Molopopterus sp., showed that F. oxysporum isolates induced 10 – 45% mortality and M. anisopliae isolates induce 30 – 80% mortality. Metarhizium anisopliae isolates J S1, KF S3, KF S11, KF S13, LS1 and LS2 were the most virulent and induced over 60% mortality in both Molopopterus sp. nymphs and adults. The results of this study showed pest preference towards different Cyclopia species. As such, they should be managed differently. Furthermore, L. venus was observed to occur in low densities, hence, it cannot be considered a major pest. However, Molopopterus sp. recorded high population densities making it a major pest in Honeybush production. Positive results indicated that some of the isolated fungal isolates have potential for control, an avenue worth investigating further. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Department of Zoology and Entomology, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Bongani Ndodana-Breen’s compositional style and techniques: piano case study in Rituals for Forgotten Faces
- Authors: Julies, Jason
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Composers, Black -- South Africa , Hymns, Xhosa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52897 , vital:44320
- Description: Bongani Ndodana-Breen is a South African born Xhosa composer trained in Western Classical music and composition. His music is a reflection of his Xhosa heritage, and is internationally recognised. While there have been discussions of Ndodana-Breen’s individual works, the current available literature does not sufficiently investigate his compositional style. This treatise aims to address this. To determine Ndodana-Breen’s compositional style, the techniques and practices he uses in his works are investigated. This is achieved by deconstructing the compositional elements, and musical techniques and practices he employs in his compositions. They are then investigated through the use of thematic analysis and fragmentation, and are viewed through the lens of polystylism and postcolonialism. Ndodana-Breen’s composition Rituals for Forgotten Faces is used as a case study. The results of this investigation show that Ndodana-Breen, through the use of strong rhythms, light textures and simplicity in writing, creates a unique Africanness in his compositions. This Africanness overcomes the Eurocentric sound traditionally found in Western Classical composition. Furthermore, these findings suggest a hybridity of polystylistic elements found in Ndodana-Breen’s music, that could potentially be found in the works of other African musicians that are trained in Western Classical composition. On this basis, this study paves the way for further study of African composers and their works. , Thesis (MMus) -- Faculty of Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Julies, Jason
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Composers, Black -- South Africa , Hymns, Xhosa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52897 , vital:44320
- Description: Bongani Ndodana-Breen is a South African born Xhosa composer trained in Western Classical music and composition. His music is a reflection of his Xhosa heritage, and is internationally recognised. While there have been discussions of Ndodana-Breen’s individual works, the current available literature does not sufficiently investigate his compositional style. This treatise aims to address this. To determine Ndodana-Breen’s compositional style, the techniques and practices he uses in his works are investigated. This is achieved by deconstructing the compositional elements, and musical techniques and practices he employs in his compositions. They are then investigated through the use of thematic analysis and fragmentation, and are viewed through the lens of polystylism and postcolonialism. Ndodana-Breen’s composition Rituals for Forgotten Faces is used as a case study. The results of this investigation show that Ndodana-Breen, through the use of strong rhythms, light textures and simplicity in writing, creates a unique Africanness in his compositions. This Africanness overcomes the Eurocentric sound traditionally found in Western Classical composition. Furthermore, these findings suggest a hybridity of polystylistic elements found in Ndodana-Breen’s music, that could potentially be found in the works of other African musicians that are trained in Western Classical composition. On this basis, this study paves the way for further study of African composers and their works. , Thesis (MMus) -- Faculty of Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Caregivers’ Knowledge, Attitude and Practices (KAP) of breastfeeding and prevention of mother-to-child transmission (pmtct) in Nelson Mandela Bay Health District: impact of a community dialogue intervention
- Authors: Barnard, Marné
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Breastfeeding -- Transmission -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality -- Prevention , Communicable diseases -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50988 , vital:43196
- Description: Background: Globally, childhood mortality remains high with 5.3 million deaths occurring in children under the age of five years in 2018. Of these deaths, 43 000 were children from South Africa, with malnutrition being a significant risk factor contributing to disease and death. Breastfeeding has many benefits and reduces childhood mortality. Current primary health care strategies in South Africa are not having an adequate impact on breastfeeding rates, therefore appropriate messages need to be targeted at the community in order to improve breastfeeding rates. Participatory approaches have been identified as an effective tool to promote child health. Community dialogues led by skilled Early Childhood Development (ECD) mentors from the community might be key in order to improve caregivers’ knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) in relation to breastfeeding and Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission of HIV (PMTCT). Aim : The aim of the study was to explore the potential effects of community dialogues, led by ECD mentors, on caregivers’ knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) in relation to breastfeeding and prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT). Methods: Quasi-experimental design was used to compare the KAP of caregivers in relation to breastfeeding and PMTCT. Convenience sampling was used to include 63 caregivers who participated in the umbrella project (mixed-methods) and 61 caregivers who did not participate in the project. Ethics approval was obtained from the Nelson Mandela University Faculty Postgraduate Studies Committee. Participants had to provide written informed consent. A skilled interviewer used a structured questionnaire to assess the KAP of all participants. Data were captured on an Excel spreadsheet and analysed in collaboration with a statistician, who analysed the data using Microsoft Excel. Descriptive statistics were applied to numerical data, while frequency distributions were applied to categorical data. Correlations were calculated to describe the degree of relationship between two variables. Inferential statistic tests, conducted at a significance level of 0,05, were used for hypothesis testing. The t-test and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used in tests involving mean values. Scheffé’s test was used in ANOVA to determine between which of the groups a statistically significant difference was found. Results: In the intervention group more than double the number participants (35%; n=22) had a good knowledge of breastfeeding when compared to participants (15%; n=9) in the control group. Additionally, the intervention group participants displayed better attitudes towards the RtHB (p=0.02). However, control group participants showed better knowledge towards the HIV (p=0.01). Finally, results suggest that in the intervention group, participants (33%; n=21) were more likely to have a good total KAP score in relation to breastfeeding and PMTCT when compared to participants (11%; n=7) in the control group. In the intervention group, better knowledge correlated with good practices relating to the RtHB (r=0.27). However, in the control group, positive attitudes correlated with better practices relating to HIV (r=0.29). Younger intervention group participants displayed better breastfeeding related practices (p=0.011). Additionally, younger control group participants displayed better knowledge of breastfeeding (p=0.001). Intervention group participants whose choices were influenced by their husband/ partner (p =0.016) and/ or radio/ magazines/ newspapers (p=0.004) had positive attitudes towards HIV. Control group participants whose choices were influenced by their other family members (p=0.043) and/ or clinic staff (p=0.016) had good knowledge of sharing their knowledge. Conclusions and recommendations: The intervention group displayed a better knowledge of breastfeeding as well as more desirable attitudes towards the RtHB, when compared to the control group. However, the control group displayed better knowledge of HIV, which could be due to the control group having more younger participants when compared to the intervention group. The community dialogue intervention had a positive impact on caregivers KAP relating to breastfeeding and PMTCT, which included all the different categories combined. In order to improve the Sakha Esethu intervention programme, managers need to provide guidance to the mentors on how to initiate conversations regarding HIV and discuss the stigma associated with HIV and breastfeeding. Results showed that including grandmothers and husbands or partners in the target population will benefit the intervention. Additionally, the use of radio needs to be considered especially for discussions regarding HIV. Lastly, sustainability needs to be improved due to many participants not remembering certain detail regarding topics that was discussed. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Barnard, Marné
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Breastfeeding -- Transmission -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality -- Prevention , Communicable diseases -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50988 , vital:43196
- Description: Background: Globally, childhood mortality remains high with 5.3 million deaths occurring in children under the age of five years in 2018. Of these deaths, 43 000 were children from South Africa, with malnutrition being a significant risk factor contributing to disease and death. Breastfeeding has many benefits and reduces childhood mortality. Current primary health care strategies in South Africa are not having an adequate impact on breastfeeding rates, therefore appropriate messages need to be targeted at the community in order to improve breastfeeding rates. Participatory approaches have been identified as an effective tool to promote child health. Community dialogues led by skilled Early Childhood Development (ECD) mentors from the community might be key in order to improve caregivers’ knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) in relation to breastfeeding and Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission of HIV (PMTCT). Aim : The aim of the study was to explore the potential effects of community dialogues, led by ECD mentors, on caregivers’ knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) in relation to breastfeeding and prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT). Methods: Quasi-experimental design was used to compare the KAP of caregivers in relation to breastfeeding and PMTCT. Convenience sampling was used to include 63 caregivers who participated in the umbrella project (mixed-methods) and 61 caregivers who did not participate in the project. Ethics approval was obtained from the Nelson Mandela University Faculty Postgraduate Studies Committee. Participants had to provide written informed consent. A skilled interviewer used a structured questionnaire to assess the KAP of all participants. Data were captured on an Excel spreadsheet and analysed in collaboration with a statistician, who analysed the data using Microsoft Excel. Descriptive statistics were applied to numerical data, while frequency distributions were applied to categorical data. Correlations were calculated to describe the degree of relationship between two variables. Inferential statistic tests, conducted at a significance level of 0,05, were used for hypothesis testing. The t-test and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used in tests involving mean values. Scheffé’s test was used in ANOVA to determine between which of the groups a statistically significant difference was found. Results: In the intervention group more than double the number participants (35%; n=22) had a good knowledge of breastfeeding when compared to participants (15%; n=9) in the control group. Additionally, the intervention group participants displayed better attitudes towards the RtHB (p=0.02). However, control group participants showed better knowledge towards the HIV (p=0.01). Finally, results suggest that in the intervention group, participants (33%; n=21) were more likely to have a good total KAP score in relation to breastfeeding and PMTCT when compared to participants (11%; n=7) in the control group. In the intervention group, better knowledge correlated with good practices relating to the RtHB (r=0.27). However, in the control group, positive attitudes correlated with better practices relating to HIV (r=0.29). Younger intervention group participants displayed better breastfeeding related practices (p=0.011). Additionally, younger control group participants displayed better knowledge of breastfeeding (p=0.001). Intervention group participants whose choices were influenced by their husband/ partner (p =0.016) and/ or radio/ magazines/ newspapers (p=0.004) had positive attitudes towards HIV. Control group participants whose choices were influenced by their other family members (p=0.043) and/ or clinic staff (p=0.016) had good knowledge of sharing their knowledge. Conclusions and recommendations: The intervention group displayed a better knowledge of breastfeeding as well as more desirable attitudes towards the RtHB, when compared to the control group. However, the control group displayed better knowledge of HIV, which could be due to the control group having more younger participants when compared to the intervention group. The community dialogue intervention had a positive impact on caregivers KAP relating to breastfeeding and PMTCT, which included all the different categories combined. In order to improve the Sakha Esethu intervention programme, managers need to provide guidance to the mentors on how to initiate conversations regarding HIV and discuss the stigma associated with HIV and breastfeeding. Results showed that including grandmothers and husbands or partners in the target population will benefit the intervention. Additionally, the use of radio needs to be considered especially for discussions regarding HIV. Lastly, sustainability needs to be improved due to many participants not remembering certain detail regarding topics that was discussed. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Characterization of the diversity and metabolic potential of hypolithic communities in dronning Maud Land, Antarctica
- Authors: Mikhari, Rito Leanah
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: To be added
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178490 , vital:42944
- Description: Access restricted until April 2022. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Biochemistry and Microbiology, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mikhari, Rito Leanah
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: To be added
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178490 , vital:42944
- Description: Access restricted until April 2022. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Biochemistry and Microbiology, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Co-generating a people-centred approach to addressing student hunger at a South African university
- Authors: Mansvelt, Natalie
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Food security -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51309 , vital:43262
- Description: While considerable progress has been made regarding access to higher education in South Africa for previously excluded and disadvantaged students, great challenges are experienced in terms of student well-being. One of the key factors contributing to students’ ability to complete their studies successfully is food-related challenges. Various programmes have been introduced at institutions of higher education to assist and support students who lack funds for food. However, these programmes are characteristic of the welfarist model, as it is often based on needs, short-term by nature, and dependent on external resources. Furthermore, it reduces students to the role of passive beneficiaries. This research answers the question of how student hunger can be addressed through co-generating a people-centred approach at one higher education institution in South Africa. The study was underpinned by Sen’s capabilities approach to enable a theoretical understanding of the issue of student hunger. Additionally, Korten’s people-centred development provided the value base of the study to place students at the centre of the problem-solving process. An approach to student hunger that would be participative, student-centred, and enhancing nutritional capabilities was invited. Situated within the critical paradigm, I employed the participatory action research design to facilitate a process whereby students critically questioned the issue of hunger and took action to address the issue. Eight students from various study fields volunteered to co-research the issue of student hunger. Over the period of one year, we generated data using different methods (including photovoice, community self-survey, workshops, purposeful group discussions, focus group discussions, and my reflective notes). We applied cyclical processes to plan, implement, and reflect on actions intended to address student hunger. Through a combination of collaborative and individual processes of data analysis, we responded to four subquestions through four phases, which culminated in the co-construction of a people-centred approach to student hunger. Students’ conceptualisations of student hunger revealed two types: hunger of the stomach and hunger of the mind. The cyclical relationship between the two types infers that nutritional well-being is not achieved adequately when students have the means to acquire food. Choices regarding the utilisation of the available means also need consideration. The findings revealed that students apply the conscientisation framework in the ways that they plan to address student hunger. Applying value-driven processes, actions entailed physical dialogues with groups of people. The approach developed in this study offers strategies for the stakeholders who attend to student hunger, to collaborate and make contributions towards comprehensively resolving the complex issue. It primarily could be useful to institutions of higher education as the suggested coordinators of a collaborative structure. A second part of the developed approach puts forward a strategy to address the financial capabilities of students. The study contributes a consideration to constraints that stem from students’ mindsets and adoption of a prevailing culture that maintains student hunger. This demonstrates that resolutions to addressing student hunger might be more effective and sustainable if the context, views and participation of people experiencing the hunger are considered. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mansvelt, Natalie
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Food security -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51309 , vital:43262
- Description: While considerable progress has been made regarding access to higher education in South Africa for previously excluded and disadvantaged students, great challenges are experienced in terms of student well-being. One of the key factors contributing to students’ ability to complete their studies successfully is food-related challenges. Various programmes have been introduced at institutions of higher education to assist and support students who lack funds for food. However, these programmes are characteristic of the welfarist model, as it is often based on needs, short-term by nature, and dependent on external resources. Furthermore, it reduces students to the role of passive beneficiaries. This research answers the question of how student hunger can be addressed through co-generating a people-centred approach at one higher education institution in South Africa. The study was underpinned by Sen’s capabilities approach to enable a theoretical understanding of the issue of student hunger. Additionally, Korten’s people-centred development provided the value base of the study to place students at the centre of the problem-solving process. An approach to student hunger that would be participative, student-centred, and enhancing nutritional capabilities was invited. Situated within the critical paradigm, I employed the participatory action research design to facilitate a process whereby students critically questioned the issue of hunger and took action to address the issue. Eight students from various study fields volunteered to co-research the issue of student hunger. Over the period of one year, we generated data using different methods (including photovoice, community self-survey, workshops, purposeful group discussions, focus group discussions, and my reflective notes). We applied cyclical processes to plan, implement, and reflect on actions intended to address student hunger. Through a combination of collaborative and individual processes of data analysis, we responded to four subquestions through four phases, which culminated in the co-construction of a people-centred approach to student hunger. Students’ conceptualisations of student hunger revealed two types: hunger of the stomach and hunger of the mind. The cyclical relationship between the two types infers that nutritional well-being is not achieved adequately when students have the means to acquire food. Choices regarding the utilisation of the available means also need consideration. The findings revealed that students apply the conscientisation framework in the ways that they plan to address student hunger. Applying value-driven processes, actions entailed physical dialogues with groups of people. The approach developed in this study offers strategies for the stakeholders who attend to student hunger, to collaborate and make contributions towards comprehensively resolving the complex issue. It primarily could be useful to institutions of higher education as the suggested coordinators of a collaborative structure. A second part of the developed approach puts forward a strategy to address the financial capabilities of students. The study contributes a consideration to constraints that stem from students’ mindsets and adoption of a prevailing culture that maintains student hunger. This demonstrates that resolutions to addressing student hunger might be more effective and sustainable if the context, views and participation of people experiencing the hunger are considered. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Cognitive justice and environmental learning in South African social movements
- Authors: Burt, Jane Caroline
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Transformative learning , Water security -- South Africa , Environmental education -- South Africa , EEASA (Organization) , Civil society -- South Africa , Water justice , Cognitive justice
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/174437 , vital:42477 , http://dx.doi.org/10.21504/10962/174437
- Description: This thesis by publication is an applied study into transformative learning as an emancipatory practice for water justice. It is guided by the core research question: How can cognitively just learning be an activist practice in social movements working towards water justice? To address this question, I use the applied critical realist approach which makes use of three moments of moral reasoning which are very similar to the approach adopted in the learning intervention that is the focus of this research. These three moments are: Diagnose, Explain, Act – sometimes known as the DEA model (Bhaskar, 2008, 243; Munnik & Price, 2015). The research object is the Changing Practice course for community-based environmental and social movements. The course was developed and studied over seven years, starting from the reflexive scholarship of environmental learning in South Africa, particularly the adult learning model of working together/working away developed through the Environmental Education Association of Southern Africa in partnership with the Environmental Learning Research Centre at Rhodes University (Lotz-Sisitka & Raven, 2004). We (the facilitators/educators) ran the Changing Practice course three times (2012-2014; 2014-2016; 2016-2018), in which I generated substantive data which forms the empirical base on which this study was developed. We found the concept of cognitive justice (Visvanathan, 2005; de Sousa Santos, 2016) to be a powerful mobilizing concept with which to carry out emancipatory research and learning, in three ways. First, it brought together a group of researchers, activists and practitioners from different organizations to work on how to strengthen the role of civil society in monitoring government water policy and practice (Wilson et al., 2016). Second, within the Changing Practice course itself, it became a principle for guiding learning design and pedagogy as well as a way of engaging in dialogue with the participants around the politics of knowledge, exclusion and inclusion in knowledge production, systems of oppression and multiple knowledges (Wilson et al., 2016; Burt et al., 2018). Thirdly, the participants’ change projects (the applied projects undertaken during the ‘working away’ phase between course modules), allowed participants to draw on different knowledge systems, which they learnt to do in the ‘working together’ modules, and to address cognitive justice concerns linked to environmental justice. The change projects also challenged our learning pedagogy by raising contradictions in the course’s approach to learning that needed to be transformed in order for our pedagogy to be more cognitively just. Throughout this thesis I argue that the work of cognitive justice deepens the connections between people, institutions and structures, particularly in relation to transformative learning. Our intention was to identify and critique structures and ideologies that perpetuated oppressive relations, and then to identify and enact the work needed towards transforming these relations. This is why I often refer to cognitive justice as a solidarity and mobilizing concept, and I use the term cognitive justice praxis to mean the reflection and actions that are needed to enact cognitive just learning. The facilitators and participants of the Changing Practice course worked to remove the layered effects of oppression both in the practice of water justice and in the learning process itself. We worked, however imperfectly, with a caring, collectively-held ethic towards each other and the world. Using the DEA model I applied the critical realist dialectic to analyse contradictions and generate explanations through four articles as reflexive writing projects (See Part 2 of this thesis). I used the critical realist dialectic both to reveal contradictions, investigate how these contradictions have come to be, and to generate alternative explanations and action to absent them. Through this research I identified four essential mechanisms for cognitively just environmental learning: care work, co-learning, reflexivity and an interdisciplinary approach to learning scholarship as learning praxis. The essential elements that made the Changing Practice course so effective were the working together/working away design, the encouraging of participants to make the change project something they were passionate about, and the situating and grounding of the Changing Practice course within a social movement network. We were able to show that for academic scholarship to contribute meaningfully to cognitively just learning praxis, it needs to be collaborative and reflexive, and start from the embodied historical and contextual experience of learning as experienced and understood by participants on the course. This demanded an interdisciplinary approach to work with contradictions in learning practice, one that could take into consideration different knowledges and knowledge practices beyond professional disciplines. Both social movement communities and scholarly communities have valuable knowledge to offer each other. As argued in article one, rather than a lack of knowledge, what more often limits our emancipatory action are factors that prevent us from coming closer together. (Burt et al, 2018) This research revealed that social movement learning towards water justice is multi-level care work, the four levels being: individual psychology, our relations with others, our relations with structures such as our social movements, and our relations with the planet. When such care work attains self- reflexivity, practice-reflexivity, co-learning and collective scholarship, it is able to absent the contradictions that inhibit cognitive justice. This thesis is a record of our attempts to learn how to achieve this.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Burt, Jane Caroline
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Transformative learning , Water security -- South Africa , Environmental education -- South Africa , EEASA (Organization) , Civil society -- South Africa , Water justice , Cognitive justice
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/174437 , vital:42477 , http://dx.doi.org/10.21504/10962/174437
- Description: This thesis by publication is an applied study into transformative learning as an emancipatory practice for water justice. It is guided by the core research question: How can cognitively just learning be an activist practice in social movements working towards water justice? To address this question, I use the applied critical realist approach which makes use of three moments of moral reasoning which are very similar to the approach adopted in the learning intervention that is the focus of this research. These three moments are: Diagnose, Explain, Act – sometimes known as the DEA model (Bhaskar, 2008, 243; Munnik & Price, 2015). The research object is the Changing Practice course for community-based environmental and social movements. The course was developed and studied over seven years, starting from the reflexive scholarship of environmental learning in South Africa, particularly the adult learning model of working together/working away developed through the Environmental Education Association of Southern Africa in partnership with the Environmental Learning Research Centre at Rhodes University (Lotz-Sisitka & Raven, 2004). We (the facilitators/educators) ran the Changing Practice course three times (2012-2014; 2014-2016; 2016-2018), in which I generated substantive data which forms the empirical base on which this study was developed. We found the concept of cognitive justice (Visvanathan, 2005; de Sousa Santos, 2016) to be a powerful mobilizing concept with which to carry out emancipatory research and learning, in three ways. First, it brought together a group of researchers, activists and practitioners from different organizations to work on how to strengthen the role of civil society in monitoring government water policy and practice (Wilson et al., 2016). Second, within the Changing Practice course itself, it became a principle for guiding learning design and pedagogy as well as a way of engaging in dialogue with the participants around the politics of knowledge, exclusion and inclusion in knowledge production, systems of oppression and multiple knowledges (Wilson et al., 2016; Burt et al., 2018). Thirdly, the participants’ change projects (the applied projects undertaken during the ‘working away’ phase between course modules), allowed participants to draw on different knowledge systems, which they learnt to do in the ‘working together’ modules, and to address cognitive justice concerns linked to environmental justice. The change projects also challenged our learning pedagogy by raising contradictions in the course’s approach to learning that needed to be transformed in order for our pedagogy to be more cognitively just. Throughout this thesis I argue that the work of cognitive justice deepens the connections between people, institutions and structures, particularly in relation to transformative learning. Our intention was to identify and critique structures and ideologies that perpetuated oppressive relations, and then to identify and enact the work needed towards transforming these relations. This is why I often refer to cognitive justice as a solidarity and mobilizing concept, and I use the term cognitive justice praxis to mean the reflection and actions that are needed to enact cognitive just learning. The facilitators and participants of the Changing Practice course worked to remove the layered effects of oppression both in the practice of water justice and in the learning process itself. We worked, however imperfectly, with a caring, collectively-held ethic towards each other and the world. Using the DEA model I applied the critical realist dialectic to analyse contradictions and generate explanations through four articles as reflexive writing projects (See Part 2 of this thesis). I used the critical realist dialectic both to reveal contradictions, investigate how these contradictions have come to be, and to generate alternative explanations and action to absent them. Through this research I identified four essential mechanisms for cognitively just environmental learning: care work, co-learning, reflexivity and an interdisciplinary approach to learning scholarship as learning praxis. The essential elements that made the Changing Practice course so effective were the working together/working away design, the encouraging of participants to make the change project something they were passionate about, and the situating and grounding of the Changing Practice course within a social movement network. We were able to show that for academic scholarship to contribute meaningfully to cognitively just learning praxis, it needs to be collaborative and reflexive, and start from the embodied historical and contextual experience of learning as experienced and understood by participants on the course. This demanded an interdisciplinary approach to work with contradictions in learning practice, one that could take into consideration different knowledges and knowledge practices beyond professional disciplines. Both social movement communities and scholarly communities have valuable knowledge to offer each other. As argued in article one, rather than a lack of knowledge, what more often limits our emancipatory action are factors that prevent us from coming closer together. (Burt et al, 2018) This research revealed that social movement learning towards water justice is multi-level care work, the four levels being: individual psychology, our relations with others, our relations with structures such as our social movements, and our relations with the planet. When such care work attains self- reflexivity, practice-reflexivity, co-learning and collective scholarship, it is able to absent the contradictions that inhibit cognitive justice. This thesis is a record of our attempts to learn how to achieve this.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Colourism, the commodification of complexion and a post-colonial analysis of skin-lightening campaigns: a case study of the South African Indian Community
- Authors: Juglal, Simran
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Colorism -- South Africa , Skin -- Bleaching
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52568 , vital:43690
- Description: As part of the legacy of colonialism, colourism, or intra-racial discrimination, is a complex phenomenon in India and in the Indian diaspora. To explore the nature of such intra-racial hierarchies, this research contextualises the historical frameworks of British colonial rule in India, the Indian indentured labour system in South Africa, and racial segregation during the Apartheid regime. Significantly, the legacies of these systems of oppression work on two distinct yet intertwined levels: race and colour. Because the colour of one’s skin can greatly influence education opportunities, socio-economic mobility, and general well-being in communities of colour, the problematic relationship between skin complexion and access to resources can encourage a yearning for whiteness or lightness. Aided by Eurocentric standards of beauty and ethnic marketing, the media plays a key role in exacerbating the issue of colourism and fortifying a multi-million dollar skin-lightening industry. From the vilification of darker-skinned actors in Bollywood to beauty products with potentially-harmful ingredients being promoted as the main, or only, means to success, the media and skin-lightening industry exploit the desire for a lighter skin tone to sell a lifestyle underpinned by white aesthetics. Thus, this research analyses the power of the media in championing colourist ideals as well as how the media can be used to dismantle such ideals. While there exists an extensive amount of academic literature on colourism, previous work has failed to address the ways in which colourism is present within the South African Indian diaspora. Arguably, Indian people have a unique history of being both oppressed and privileged in South Africa and it is in this in-between space where colourism thrives. Thus, through the use of an audience study and, consequently, data collection and analysis, this research explores the personal experiences of colourism-based discrimination and privileges in the South African Indian diaspora. While this research does not aim to provide conclusive answers and/or solutions to the issue of colourism, it is paramount to include an audience study as the World Health Organisation (WHO) has reported that 35% of South Africans participate in skin-lightening processes. Thus, this research aims to provide insights into the ways in which South African Indians engage with colourism and the extent to which they participate in skin-lightening practices. The findings of this research aim to illustrate that colourism remains rife in the South African Indian community as it is often ‘passed down’ from generation to generation. Moreover, the analysis of the participants’ responses demonstrates that, despite the fragile nature of determining one’s worth based on skin tone, colourism can have a long-term impact on the mental, emotional and physical health of South African Indians. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Juglal, Simran
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Colorism -- South Africa , Skin -- Bleaching
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52568 , vital:43690
- Description: As part of the legacy of colonialism, colourism, or intra-racial discrimination, is a complex phenomenon in India and in the Indian diaspora. To explore the nature of such intra-racial hierarchies, this research contextualises the historical frameworks of British colonial rule in India, the Indian indentured labour system in South Africa, and racial segregation during the Apartheid regime. Significantly, the legacies of these systems of oppression work on two distinct yet intertwined levels: race and colour. Because the colour of one’s skin can greatly influence education opportunities, socio-economic mobility, and general well-being in communities of colour, the problematic relationship between skin complexion and access to resources can encourage a yearning for whiteness or lightness. Aided by Eurocentric standards of beauty and ethnic marketing, the media plays a key role in exacerbating the issue of colourism and fortifying a multi-million dollar skin-lightening industry. From the vilification of darker-skinned actors in Bollywood to beauty products with potentially-harmful ingredients being promoted as the main, or only, means to success, the media and skin-lightening industry exploit the desire for a lighter skin tone to sell a lifestyle underpinned by white aesthetics. Thus, this research analyses the power of the media in championing colourist ideals as well as how the media can be used to dismantle such ideals. While there exists an extensive amount of academic literature on colourism, previous work has failed to address the ways in which colourism is present within the South African Indian diaspora. Arguably, Indian people have a unique history of being both oppressed and privileged in South Africa and it is in this in-between space where colourism thrives. Thus, through the use of an audience study and, consequently, data collection and analysis, this research explores the personal experiences of colourism-based discrimination and privileges in the South African Indian diaspora. While this research does not aim to provide conclusive answers and/or solutions to the issue of colourism, it is paramount to include an audience study as the World Health Organisation (WHO) has reported that 35% of South Africans participate in skin-lightening processes. Thus, this research aims to provide insights into the ways in which South African Indians engage with colourism and the extent to which they participate in skin-lightening practices. The findings of this research aim to illustrate that colourism remains rife in the South African Indian community as it is often ‘passed down’ from generation to generation. Moreover, the analysis of the participants’ responses demonstrates that, despite the fragile nature of determining one’s worth based on skin tone, colourism can have a long-term impact on the mental, emotional and physical health of South African Indians. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04