Development of a therapeutic drug monitoring model for aminoglycosides at a private hospital in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Swanepoel, Caro Mae
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Aminoglycosides -- Eastern Cape , Nephrotoxicity -- Eastern Cape , Drug Monitoring
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60276 , vital:64291
- Description: Background: Aminoglycosides are highly effective against Gram-negative bacteria, including ESKAPE pathogens. However, aminoglycosides can cause nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) performed in patients receiving aminoglycosides can potentially reduce the development of antimicrobial resistance as well as aminoglycoside-induced toxicity and side effects. Primary Aim: The study aimed to identify TDM practices and subsequently develop a model for aminoglycoside TDM at a private hospital in the Eastern Cape. Methodology: Phase One involved the collection of data from the hospital’s database, using a purpose-designed data collection tool. Data from 135 eligible patients who received aminoglycoside therapy from June 2019 to June 2020 were reviewed. Data was captured, coded and analysed (using differential analysis). Semi-structured interviews were conducted (Phase Two) with three physicians and five pharmacists. Interview transcripts were coded using a combination of inductive and deductive coding techniques, followed by thematic analysis. The data was triangulated and used, together with recommendations from similar guidelines, to design a context-specific model for aminoglycoside TDM at the hospital. Results and Discussion: Results from Phases One and Two showed that TDM was not being performed correctly at the hospital. The overall incidence of aminoglycoside TDM was 19.26% (N = 135). The highest incidence of TDM occurred in ICU patients (n = 31; 51.61%). Drug monitoring was not consistently conducted in elderly (≥65 years) patients, or in those with signs of renal impairment; even though interviewed physicians and pharmacists identified elderly and renally impaired patients as “high risk” patients. Challenges regarding implementation of aminoglycoside TDM were explored. A lack of competent staff and time constraints were identified as major barriers to quality TDM services. Conclusion: The daily practices and TDM challenges at the site were considered during the design of the aminoglycoside TDM model, which can potentially facilitate better execution and monitoring practices for aminoglycosides at the private hospital. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Swanepoel, Caro Mae
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Aminoglycosides -- Eastern Cape , Nephrotoxicity -- Eastern Cape , Drug Monitoring
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60276 , vital:64291
- Description: Background: Aminoglycosides are highly effective against Gram-negative bacteria, including ESKAPE pathogens. However, aminoglycosides can cause nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) performed in patients receiving aminoglycosides can potentially reduce the development of antimicrobial resistance as well as aminoglycoside-induced toxicity and side effects. Primary Aim: The study aimed to identify TDM practices and subsequently develop a model for aminoglycoside TDM at a private hospital in the Eastern Cape. Methodology: Phase One involved the collection of data from the hospital’s database, using a purpose-designed data collection tool. Data from 135 eligible patients who received aminoglycoside therapy from June 2019 to June 2020 were reviewed. Data was captured, coded and analysed (using differential analysis). Semi-structured interviews were conducted (Phase Two) with three physicians and five pharmacists. Interview transcripts were coded using a combination of inductive and deductive coding techniques, followed by thematic analysis. The data was triangulated and used, together with recommendations from similar guidelines, to design a context-specific model for aminoglycoside TDM at the hospital. Results and Discussion: Results from Phases One and Two showed that TDM was not being performed correctly at the hospital. The overall incidence of aminoglycoside TDM was 19.26% (N = 135). The highest incidence of TDM occurred in ICU patients (n = 31; 51.61%). Drug monitoring was not consistently conducted in elderly (≥65 years) patients, or in those with signs of renal impairment; even though interviewed physicians and pharmacists identified elderly and renally impaired patients as “high risk” patients. Challenges regarding implementation of aminoglycoside TDM were explored. A lack of competent staff and time constraints were identified as major barriers to quality TDM services. Conclusion: The daily practices and TDM challenges at the site were considered during the design of the aminoglycoside TDM model, which can potentially facilitate better execution and monitoring practices for aminoglycosides at the private hospital. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Different dimensions of inequality and sustainable economic growth in Africa
- Authors: Raimi, Rasaq Being
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Inequality , Sustainable development , Economic growth -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59884 , vital:62483
- Description: The recent unprecedented economic growth across Africa for over two decades has been anticipated to alleviate poverty and close up the wide inequality gap in the continent; its impact, however, on the vast majority of people in Africa appears to be insignificant as more households are still battling with poverty and the inequality gap is still wide. This has, however, raised empirical questions regarding the nature of the relationship that exists between economic growth and inequality in Africa. Hence, these questions have created gaps in the literature as some studies found positive relationship while other results state otherwise. The study fills the existing gap by re-examining the relationship between dimensions of inequality and sustainable growth in Africa. The study applied parametric and non-parametric econometric techniques on more recent inequalities data covering 28 African countries. Specifically, the study examined the relationship between income inequality and sustainable growth in Africa, investigated the relationship between education inequality and sustainable growth in Africa, analysed the relationship between gender inequality and sustainable growth in Africa and discussed the relationship between land inequality and sustainable growth in Africa. The study covered the period of 1998-2020 and the data for the study were sourced from Standardised World Income Inequality Data Base (SWIID), World Economic Forum, World Bank Online Data Base, Benaabdelaali et al‘s (2012) paper and Ziesemer, THW‘s (2016) paper. Result from the analysis of income inequality and sustainable growth indicates a positive unidirectional relationship between the two variables. The findings suggest that African growth promotes more income inequality and income inequality does not interrupt the growth potential of the continent. The findings further reveal a positive relationship between sustainable growth and poverty rate in African region. This suggests that African economic growth alone cannot solve African poverty problem. Analysis of sustainable growth and education inequality shows an inverse relationship between the two variables. The result indicates that sustainable growth helps in reducing education inequality but a further increase in education inequality drags down sustainable growth in the long-run. Also, poverty is found to have a positive relationship with education inequality in Africa. However, no causal relationship is found between sustainable growth and education inequality but rather a unidirectional causality running from poverty to education inequality in Africa. iv In relation to the gender inequality analysis, the study also found a negative relationship between the two variables. Specifically, while sustainable growth is found to be bridging gender gap, gender inequality on the other hand is found to be a limiting factor on sustainable growth in Africa. The results also indicate a strong positive significant relationship between poverty and gender inequality in Africa. The analysis reveals the vulnerability of African women to poverty and also suggests that many African countries are yet to harness the enormous potentials possessed by women for their regional development. Furthermore, the study found a negative relationship between sustainable growth and land inequality in Africa. The result indicates that unequal land distribution is among the factors preventing Africa from achieving its high dream of sustainable growth and it is further responsible for the severe poverty especially among the rural dwellers where agricultural land is considered as an important determinant of family income. One way causality running from land inequality to sustainable growth is also established via granger causality result which further indicates that uneven land distribution has effects on sustainable growth. Based on these findings, the study concludes that economic growth though has been helping in bridging some dimensions of inequality in Africa, income related inequality is exempted. Also, it is evident that economic growth alone is not adequate to close the wide inequality gap that has persisted for so long in Africa. In conclusion, the study recommended among other things that many African policy makers need to intensify their developmental efforts to reach everyone in their countries so as to effectively fight the ugly poverty situation across the continent. Also, salary structure needs to be revisited across Africa via introduction of appropriate tax to redistribute income and help the low income earners to relatively meet up with the higher income earners. This will help in closing income gap and at the same time alleviate poverty. , Thesis (PHD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Raimi, Rasaq Being
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Inequality , Sustainable development , Economic growth -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59884 , vital:62483
- Description: The recent unprecedented economic growth across Africa for over two decades has been anticipated to alleviate poverty and close up the wide inequality gap in the continent; its impact, however, on the vast majority of people in Africa appears to be insignificant as more households are still battling with poverty and the inequality gap is still wide. This has, however, raised empirical questions regarding the nature of the relationship that exists between economic growth and inequality in Africa. Hence, these questions have created gaps in the literature as some studies found positive relationship while other results state otherwise. The study fills the existing gap by re-examining the relationship between dimensions of inequality and sustainable growth in Africa. The study applied parametric and non-parametric econometric techniques on more recent inequalities data covering 28 African countries. Specifically, the study examined the relationship between income inequality and sustainable growth in Africa, investigated the relationship between education inequality and sustainable growth in Africa, analysed the relationship between gender inequality and sustainable growth in Africa and discussed the relationship between land inequality and sustainable growth in Africa. The study covered the period of 1998-2020 and the data for the study were sourced from Standardised World Income Inequality Data Base (SWIID), World Economic Forum, World Bank Online Data Base, Benaabdelaali et al‘s (2012) paper and Ziesemer, THW‘s (2016) paper. Result from the analysis of income inequality and sustainable growth indicates a positive unidirectional relationship between the two variables. The findings suggest that African growth promotes more income inequality and income inequality does not interrupt the growth potential of the continent. The findings further reveal a positive relationship between sustainable growth and poverty rate in African region. This suggests that African economic growth alone cannot solve African poverty problem. Analysis of sustainable growth and education inequality shows an inverse relationship between the two variables. The result indicates that sustainable growth helps in reducing education inequality but a further increase in education inequality drags down sustainable growth in the long-run. Also, poverty is found to have a positive relationship with education inequality in Africa. However, no causal relationship is found between sustainable growth and education inequality but rather a unidirectional causality running from poverty to education inequality in Africa. iv In relation to the gender inequality analysis, the study also found a negative relationship between the two variables. Specifically, while sustainable growth is found to be bridging gender gap, gender inequality on the other hand is found to be a limiting factor on sustainable growth in Africa. The results also indicate a strong positive significant relationship between poverty and gender inequality in Africa. The analysis reveals the vulnerability of African women to poverty and also suggests that many African countries are yet to harness the enormous potentials possessed by women for their regional development. Furthermore, the study found a negative relationship between sustainable growth and land inequality in Africa. The result indicates that unequal land distribution is among the factors preventing Africa from achieving its high dream of sustainable growth and it is further responsible for the severe poverty especially among the rural dwellers where agricultural land is considered as an important determinant of family income. One way causality running from land inequality to sustainable growth is also established via granger causality result which further indicates that uneven land distribution has effects on sustainable growth. Based on these findings, the study concludes that economic growth though has been helping in bridging some dimensions of inequality in Africa, income related inequality is exempted. Also, it is evident that economic growth alone is not adequate to close the wide inequality gap that has persisted for so long in Africa. In conclusion, the study recommended among other things that many African policy makers need to intensify their developmental efforts to reach everyone in their countries so as to effectively fight the ugly poverty situation across the continent. Also, salary structure needs to be revisited across Africa via introduction of appropriate tax to redistribute income and help the low income earners to relatively meet up with the higher income earners. This will help in closing income gap and at the same time alleviate poverty. , Thesis (PHD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Economic impact assessment of the national youth development agency (NYDA) grant fund in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Fotoyi, Asanda
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Economic impact analysis , Youth development, Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59424 , vital:62093
- Description: Since the dawn of democracy in South Africa, the country has adopted several youth policies aimed at promoting young peoples’ education and training, employment, entrepreneurship, and healthy lifestyles. Still, however, the country battles high youth unemployment rates, which increased from 35.7% in 2010 to 41.0% in 2019. Such issues exist despite the NYDA being established in 2008 to coordinate youth strategies in the country. The NYDA strategic areas include: economic participation, education and skills development, health and wellbeing, knowledge management, and governance. Of note is that NYDA grant funding has been specifically designed to provide young South African entrepreneurs with an opportunity to access both financial and nonfinancial business support to establish or expand their businesses. Over a period of 7 years (2013-2019), the NYDA has grant funded a significant number of youth-owned businesses across the country, to the value of about R204.5 million. Given the large amount of public funds invested through NYDA grant funding, it is important to assess whether or not this investment has been favourable in terms of achieving its goals. This determination is especially important, as governmental resources are scarce and subject to opportunity cost, in that some alternatives have been forgone in favour of the NYDA mandate. The present study was, therefore, necessary, as, since the inception of NYDA grant funding, its economic impact has not been scientifically measured or assessed. As such, there has not been any scientific basis to justify NYDA grant funding. In particular, this thesis assessed the economic impact of the NYDA grant funding in the Eastern Cape. The effectiveness of the NYDA grant funding was examined against its objectives: improved entrepreneurship participation, business skills development and support, and improved creation of job opportunities. The primary hypothesis was tested using a cost-benefit analysis (CBA). The CBA method was adopted as it is a well-established economic assessment method to test policy interventions. This method is also based on methodological rigour and was determined to be most applicable for this present research endeavour. v The notion behind using the CBA was to quantify the net benefits of NYDA grant funding for youth businesses by comparing the benefits with the corresponding costs. In order to determine other factors that influence the turnovers of NYDA grant funding recipients’ businesses, secondary hypotheses were then tested by using a least absolute deviation (LAD) regression analysis in respect to cross-sectional data relating to the respondents’ annual turnovers over the years 2014-2019. The LAD estimation method was used primarily due to its robustness in comparison to ordinary least squares (OLS). This study made use of a questionnaire to collect data on the demographics of the NYDA grant funding beneficiaries. As well as the beneficiaries’ business characteristics, their subjective perceptions on the impact of the NYDA support interventions, and business-specific challenges. The Raosoft calculator was used to calculate the sample size at a 5% margin of error. The scientifically sound sample size of the respondents, according to the Raosoft calculator, was 246 out of 681 clients. The respondents were drawn from the Eastern Cape areas by means of face-to-face survey interviews as well as a digitised research instrument that was circulated using several online platforms (e.g., email, WhatsApp, and Facebook). The total number of respondents who ultimately participated in this study was 253. In order to achieve Denzin’s (1978) triangulation, a focus group session was also conducted with selected NYDA grant beneficiaries. The focus group discussion for this research was held using the online platform, Microsoft Teams (MS Teams). The survey analysis findings of the study suggest that the demographics of the NYDA grant funding beneficiaries are a general reflection of the Eastern Cape’s overall youth entrepreneurship trends. As such, there were more male youth entrepreneurs compared to female youth entrepreneurs. The involvement of youth in business improved in correspondence with age -groups. The population groups of the grant funding beneficiaries also reflected the country’s racial demographics. In terms of business characteristics, the survey analysis findings revealed that NYDA grant funded businesses function across various sectors of the economy and largely operate out of homes. These businesses primarily serve local households and communities, have generally been operating for 3-5 years, and were largely started because the owner recognised an opportunity in the market. In terms of business assistance from vi NYDA, it was found that the grant funding was mostly utilised for asset finance. In terms of business challenges, market conditions were highlighted as negatively impacting youth businesses. However, the participating business owners were primarily inward-looking when seeking to address their challenges. A further finding from the survey analysis revealed that many NYDA grant funded businesses tended to increase the number of jobs created in the period under review. The CBA findings, in turn, showed that the public expenditure in Eastern Cape youth businesses through NYDA grant funding was economically viable during the period under review, since the benefit-cost ratio (BCR) exceeded ‘1’ (the net present value (NPV) was also positive). The regression estimation findings further indicated gender, education, and industry gross domestic product (GDP) growth rates also had a significant impact on the annual turnovers of the youth businesses. The focus group findings highlighted that most beneficiaries derive value from NYDA grant funding. However, there is scope for improvement in the areas of access to finance, turnaround times, access to markets, links to the entrepreneurship ecosystem, administrative burden, mentorship, monitoring and evaluation (M&E), and organisational culture. Based on the findings of the study, this thesis concludes that in the period under review, in the Eastern Cape, NYDA grant funding yields positive social returns; and delivered on its objectives (i.e., improved entrepreneurship participation, business skills development and support, and improved creation of job opportunities). The empirical findings of this study further supports this thesis’s recommendation for: 1) improvements in the NYDA grant funding budget; 2) closing gender gaps in youth entrepreneurship; 3) improving participation of disabled youth in business support services; 4) promoting entrepreneurship as a career path; 5) providing youth business support in rural areas; 6) diversifying economic sectors of youth businesses; 7) offering access to finance for youth business growth and expansion; 8) establishing youth businesses access to markets; 9) reducing administrative burdens for youth businesses; 10) improving accessibility of business development trainings; 11) offering mentorship for youth entrepreneurs, 12) providing infrastructure for youth businesses; 13) extend Covid-19 relief support for youth businesses; and 14) standardising practises in youth business support services. , Thesis (PHD) -- Faculty of Business and Economics Science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Fotoyi, Asanda
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Economic impact analysis , Youth development, Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59424 , vital:62093
- Description: Since the dawn of democracy in South Africa, the country has adopted several youth policies aimed at promoting young peoples’ education and training, employment, entrepreneurship, and healthy lifestyles. Still, however, the country battles high youth unemployment rates, which increased from 35.7% in 2010 to 41.0% in 2019. Such issues exist despite the NYDA being established in 2008 to coordinate youth strategies in the country. The NYDA strategic areas include: economic participation, education and skills development, health and wellbeing, knowledge management, and governance. Of note is that NYDA grant funding has been specifically designed to provide young South African entrepreneurs with an opportunity to access both financial and nonfinancial business support to establish or expand their businesses. Over a period of 7 years (2013-2019), the NYDA has grant funded a significant number of youth-owned businesses across the country, to the value of about R204.5 million. Given the large amount of public funds invested through NYDA grant funding, it is important to assess whether or not this investment has been favourable in terms of achieving its goals. This determination is especially important, as governmental resources are scarce and subject to opportunity cost, in that some alternatives have been forgone in favour of the NYDA mandate. The present study was, therefore, necessary, as, since the inception of NYDA grant funding, its economic impact has not been scientifically measured or assessed. As such, there has not been any scientific basis to justify NYDA grant funding. In particular, this thesis assessed the economic impact of the NYDA grant funding in the Eastern Cape. The effectiveness of the NYDA grant funding was examined against its objectives: improved entrepreneurship participation, business skills development and support, and improved creation of job opportunities. The primary hypothesis was tested using a cost-benefit analysis (CBA). The CBA method was adopted as it is a well-established economic assessment method to test policy interventions. This method is also based on methodological rigour and was determined to be most applicable for this present research endeavour. v The notion behind using the CBA was to quantify the net benefits of NYDA grant funding for youth businesses by comparing the benefits with the corresponding costs. In order to determine other factors that influence the turnovers of NYDA grant funding recipients’ businesses, secondary hypotheses were then tested by using a least absolute deviation (LAD) regression analysis in respect to cross-sectional data relating to the respondents’ annual turnovers over the years 2014-2019. The LAD estimation method was used primarily due to its robustness in comparison to ordinary least squares (OLS). This study made use of a questionnaire to collect data on the demographics of the NYDA grant funding beneficiaries. As well as the beneficiaries’ business characteristics, their subjective perceptions on the impact of the NYDA support interventions, and business-specific challenges. The Raosoft calculator was used to calculate the sample size at a 5% margin of error. The scientifically sound sample size of the respondents, according to the Raosoft calculator, was 246 out of 681 clients. The respondents were drawn from the Eastern Cape areas by means of face-to-face survey interviews as well as a digitised research instrument that was circulated using several online platforms (e.g., email, WhatsApp, and Facebook). The total number of respondents who ultimately participated in this study was 253. In order to achieve Denzin’s (1978) triangulation, a focus group session was also conducted with selected NYDA grant beneficiaries. The focus group discussion for this research was held using the online platform, Microsoft Teams (MS Teams). The survey analysis findings of the study suggest that the demographics of the NYDA grant funding beneficiaries are a general reflection of the Eastern Cape’s overall youth entrepreneurship trends. As such, there were more male youth entrepreneurs compared to female youth entrepreneurs. The involvement of youth in business improved in correspondence with age -groups. The population groups of the grant funding beneficiaries also reflected the country’s racial demographics. In terms of business characteristics, the survey analysis findings revealed that NYDA grant funded businesses function across various sectors of the economy and largely operate out of homes. These businesses primarily serve local households and communities, have generally been operating for 3-5 years, and were largely started because the owner recognised an opportunity in the market. In terms of business assistance from vi NYDA, it was found that the grant funding was mostly utilised for asset finance. In terms of business challenges, market conditions were highlighted as negatively impacting youth businesses. However, the participating business owners were primarily inward-looking when seeking to address their challenges. A further finding from the survey analysis revealed that many NYDA grant funded businesses tended to increase the number of jobs created in the period under review. The CBA findings, in turn, showed that the public expenditure in Eastern Cape youth businesses through NYDA grant funding was economically viable during the period under review, since the benefit-cost ratio (BCR) exceeded ‘1’ (the net present value (NPV) was also positive). The regression estimation findings further indicated gender, education, and industry gross domestic product (GDP) growth rates also had a significant impact on the annual turnovers of the youth businesses. The focus group findings highlighted that most beneficiaries derive value from NYDA grant funding. However, there is scope for improvement in the areas of access to finance, turnaround times, access to markets, links to the entrepreneurship ecosystem, administrative burden, mentorship, monitoring and evaluation (M&E), and organisational culture. Based on the findings of the study, this thesis concludes that in the period under review, in the Eastern Cape, NYDA grant funding yields positive social returns; and delivered on its objectives (i.e., improved entrepreneurship participation, business skills development and support, and improved creation of job opportunities). The empirical findings of this study further supports this thesis’s recommendation for: 1) improvements in the NYDA grant funding budget; 2) closing gender gaps in youth entrepreneurship; 3) improving participation of disabled youth in business support services; 4) promoting entrepreneurship as a career path; 5) providing youth business support in rural areas; 6) diversifying economic sectors of youth businesses; 7) offering access to finance for youth business growth and expansion; 8) establishing youth businesses access to markets; 9) reducing administrative burdens for youth businesses; 10) improving accessibility of business development trainings; 11) offering mentorship for youth entrepreneurs, 12) providing infrastructure for youth businesses; 13) extend Covid-19 relief support for youth businesses; and 14) standardising practises in youth business support services. , Thesis (PHD) -- Faculty of Business and Economics Science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Educational interventions for primary caregivers related to infection prevention and control in stroke patients in a rural setting of Mutasa district, Zimbabwe
- Authors: Chikanya, Violet Kestha
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Educational interventions -- Zimbabwe , Cross infection -- Prevention -- Zimbabwe , Primary caregivers
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60133 , vital:63146
- Description: Infection prevention and control offer safe and effective practices for patients and healthcare workers in any setting, including the home environment. Understanding and applying principles are based on knowledge and training of caregivers. The incidence of stroke has increased significantly in some sub-Saharan countries. Most patients with stroke are admitted into hospital during the acute phase of care, and are then discharged for further care and management at home. Recovery at home after a stroke takes a long time under the care of primary caregivers with either little or no health care training, exposing these patients to a variety of risky infections. Education on infection prevention and control is therefore encouraged to guide primary caregivers in caring for these patients. The study objectives sought to explore and describe knowledge and practices of primary caregivers, and information given by village health workers to primary caregivers to prevent and control chest infections, skin infections and urinary tract infections in home-based stroke patients in a rural setting in Mutasa district, Zimbabwe. The study also sought to develop and validate educational interventions for primary caregivers to prevent and control chest infections, skin infections and urinary tract infections in home-based stroke patients. A quantitative research paradigm was used in the study. Multistage random sampling was used to select 20 wards and 200 villages. Using a margin of error of 5% and 95% confidence, the sample consisted of 200 primary caregivers and 200 village health workers. The study was conducted in three phases. Phase One comprised data collection from primary caregivers and village health workers regarding prevention and control of chest, skin, and urinary tract infections. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire for primary caregivers and a self-administered questionnaire for village health workers. The research instruments collected data on socio-demographics, knowledge, practices and infection prevention and control information given by village health workers to primary caregivers. The Visual Basic for Applications package was used for data analysis. x The study results revealed that a significant number of primary caregivers had low knowledge levels in terms of stroke and infections that frequently occur in home-based stroke patients. About a third of primary caregivers did not know the standard infection prevention and control measures to prevent infections, and a substantial proportion of the primary caregivers did not practise the recommended measures to prevent and control chest, skin and urinary tract infections in home-based stroke patients. It was found that village health workers provided limited health education on stroke, its complications, and measures to prevent and control chest, skin and urinary tract infections to primary caregivers. In Phase Two, educational interventions in the form of a job aid comprising worksheets for primary caregivers to prevent and control chest, skin and urinary tract infections in home-based stroke patients in a rural setting were developed. In Phase Three, the draft job aid was reviewed by an eight-member expert panel. Feedback from the reviewers was used to develop the final job aid for enhancing the knowledge and practices of primary caregivers in terms of infection prevention and control in home-based stroke patients. Throughout the study, the researcher adhered to ethical considerations, namely respect for persons, beneficence, and justice. The quality of data collected was ensured by applying the principles of validity and reliability in the development stage of the questionnaire and by conducting a pilot study. Rigorous evaluation of the developed job aid is required to establish its validity. It is recommended that the job aid be included in nurse training and continuing education programs. The trainings should be cascaded to the village health workers and primary caregivers of other bed-ridden patients. The job aid will also reach more caregivers if translated to other local languages. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Chikanya, Violet Kestha
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Educational interventions -- Zimbabwe , Cross infection -- Prevention -- Zimbabwe , Primary caregivers
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60133 , vital:63146
- Description: Infection prevention and control offer safe and effective practices for patients and healthcare workers in any setting, including the home environment. Understanding and applying principles are based on knowledge and training of caregivers. The incidence of stroke has increased significantly in some sub-Saharan countries. Most patients with stroke are admitted into hospital during the acute phase of care, and are then discharged for further care and management at home. Recovery at home after a stroke takes a long time under the care of primary caregivers with either little or no health care training, exposing these patients to a variety of risky infections. Education on infection prevention and control is therefore encouraged to guide primary caregivers in caring for these patients. The study objectives sought to explore and describe knowledge and practices of primary caregivers, and information given by village health workers to primary caregivers to prevent and control chest infections, skin infections and urinary tract infections in home-based stroke patients in a rural setting in Mutasa district, Zimbabwe. The study also sought to develop and validate educational interventions for primary caregivers to prevent and control chest infections, skin infections and urinary tract infections in home-based stroke patients. A quantitative research paradigm was used in the study. Multistage random sampling was used to select 20 wards and 200 villages. Using a margin of error of 5% and 95% confidence, the sample consisted of 200 primary caregivers and 200 village health workers. The study was conducted in three phases. Phase One comprised data collection from primary caregivers and village health workers regarding prevention and control of chest, skin, and urinary tract infections. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire for primary caregivers and a self-administered questionnaire for village health workers. The research instruments collected data on socio-demographics, knowledge, practices and infection prevention and control information given by village health workers to primary caregivers. The Visual Basic for Applications package was used for data analysis. x The study results revealed that a significant number of primary caregivers had low knowledge levels in terms of stroke and infections that frequently occur in home-based stroke patients. About a third of primary caregivers did not know the standard infection prevention and control measures to prevent infections, and a substantial proportion of the primary caregivers did not practise the recommended measures to prevent and control chest, skin and urinary tract infections in home-based stroke patients. It was found that village health workers provided limited health education on stroke, its complications, and measures to prevent and control chest, skin and urinary tract infections to primary caregivers. In Phase Two, educational interventions in the form of a job aid comprising worksheets for primary caregivers to prevent and control chest, skin and urinary tract infections in home-based stroke patients in a rural setting were developed. In Phase Three, the draft job aid was reviewed by an eight-member expert panel. Feedback from the reviewers was used to develop the final job aid for enhancing the knowledge and practices of primary caregivers in terms of infection prevention and control in home-based stroke patients. Throughout the study, the researcher adhered to ethical considerations, namely respect for persons, beneficence, and justice. The quality of data collected was ensured by applying the principles of validity and reliability in the development stage of the questionnaire and by conducting a pilot study. Rigorous evaluation of the developed job aid is required to establish its validity. It is recommended that the job aid be included in nurse training and continuing education programs. The trainings should be cascaded to the village health workers and primary caregivers of other bed-ridden patients. The job aid will also reach more caregivers if translated to other local languages. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Effectiveness of monetary policy transmission mechanism: the case of selected SADC countries
- Tengwa, Anakho https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0700-8668
- Authors: Tengwa, Anakho https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0700-8668
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Monetary policy -- Africa, Southern , Transmission mechanism (Monetary policy) -- Africa, Southern , Economic development -- Africa, Southern
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26863 , vital:66037
- Description: Monetary policy plays a significant role in countries economic development. The variability in inflation in the SADC region provides room to question the Effectiveness of the transmission of monetary policy as these countries experience inflation in different ways. The study analyses the effectiveness of monetary policy transmission mechanism on the selected 5 SADC countries, South Africa, Botswana, Mauritius, Tanzania, and Zambia. The selection of the countries was mainly based on data availability. To answer the study hypothesis, the study used secondary data from different data sources, employing the Vector Autoregression Regression. The different channels analysed include the exchange rate, interest rates as well as credit channel to measure monetary policy tools. The main variables are, Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Consumer Price Index (CPI)cpi and money supply. Panel unit root was tested to test the stationarity of the variables and the appropriate lag length was determined. Panel VAR model was estimated where the focus was mainly on variance decomposition and impulse response. Then lastly the stability of the model was tested using diagnostic test. The results revealed that interest rates channel and exchange rate channel have a more significant effect in explaining the transmission of macroeconomic shock to the rest of the economy through gpd and cpi. While the credit channel mostly transmits to the rest of the economy through money supply and cpi, its effects from GDP are rather insignificant. It is also noted that interest rates serve as the dominant channel in transmitting monetary policy shocks to the rest of the economy. When central banks decrease prime lending rates for commercial banks, this is passed to consumers making it less expensive to borrow. In the long run, attracts foreign investors which harms the domestic currency. The author has noted that future research could focus on how asset price channel affects the economy. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Tengwa, Anakho https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0700-8668
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Monetary policy -- Africa, Southern , Transmission mechanism (Monetary policy) -- Africa, Southern , Economic development -- Africa, Southern
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26863 , vital:66037
- Description: Monetary policy plays a significant role in countries economic development. The variability in inflation in the SADC region provides room to question the Effectiveness of the transmission of monetary policy as these countries experience inflation in different ways. The study analyses the effectiveness of monetary policy transmission mechanism on the selected 5 SADC countries, South Africa, Botswana, Mauritius, Tanzania, and Zambia. The selection of the countries was mainly based on data availability. To answer the study hypothesis, the study used secondary data from different data sources, employing the Vector Autoregression Regression. The different channels analysed include the exchange rate, interest rates as well as credit channel to measure monetary policy tools. The main variables are, Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Consumer Price Index (CPI)cpi and money supply. Panel unit root was tested to test the stationarity of the variables and the appropriate lag length was determined. Panel VAR model was estimated where the focus was mainly on variance decomposition and impulse response. Then lastly the stability of the model was tested using diagnostic test. The results revealed that interest rates channel and exchange rate channel have a more significant effect in explaining the transmission of macroeconomic shock to the rest of the economy through gpd and cpi. While the credit channel mostly transmits to the rest of the economy through money supply and cpi, its effects from GDP are rather insignificant. It is also noted that interest rates serve as the dominant channel in transmitting monetary policy shocks to the rest of the economy. When central banks decrease prime lending rates for commercial banks, this is passed to consumers making it less expensive to borrow. In the long run, attracts foreign investors which harms the domestic currency. The author has noted that future research could focus on how asset price channel affects the economy. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Effects of Lignin on the properties of reclaimed rubber /natural rubber blends
- Makhelema, Junith Matshidiso
- Authors: Makhelema, Junith Matshidiso
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Lignin – South Africa , Tires – Recycling
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59744 , vital:62409
- Description: The environmental challenge posed by waste tyres is a serious global crisis from which South Africa is not isolated. The concept of tyre rubber reclamation into reusable rubber over the years has been on the increase, however, despite the environmental and economic advantages offered by the reclaiming process the main demerits of the resulting rubber include its relatively poor physical and mechanical properties when compared to newly manufactured rubber. The deterioration of these properties arises from the structural changes which occur during the reclaiming process. To overcome this disadvantage, reclaimed rubber can be blended with other rubbers such as natural rubber to compensate for its weak properties. However, there is stilll a limited industrial application of reclaimed/natural rubber blends due to their brittleness and relatively poor impact strength. By adding reinforcing fillers, the mechanical properties of the blends can be significantly improved. In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in the use of lignocellulosic materials as fillers, modifiers and reinforcements in polymeric materials. They are receiving attention because they are the most abundantly available raw materials on earth, and they offer greater versatility compared to inorganic fillers. Being the most abundant renewable agricultural derived lignocellulosic biomass after cellulose, and as far as polymer composites and blends are concerned, lignin has shown promise as a well-received and sustainable alternative to inorganic fillers due to its low-cost production and ability to improve on the biodegradability of polyolefins and minimise loss of ultimate mechanical properties of polymer matrices. The main aim of the research is to investigate the effect of lignin on the properties of reclaimed/natural rubber (RR/NR) blends for possible low-density and eco-friendly rubber materials. The motivation for the research arises from the global challenges that are connected to the dynamic increase of rubber wastes, especially in the form of used tyres and the potential availability of lignin from its annual production from the sugarcane pulp mills, which is regarded as waste. A mixture design of experiments was used to formulate different blends of lignin with reclaimed and natural rubber. The rubber blends and the lignin-rubber , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Makhelema, Junith Matshidiso
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Lignin – South Africa , Tires – Recycling
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59744 , vital:62409
- Description: The environmental challenge posed by waste tyres is a serious global crisis from which South Africa is not isolated. The concept of tyre rubber reclamation into reusable rubber over the years has been on the increase, however, despite the environmental and economic advantages offered by the reclaiming process the main demerits of the resulting rubber include its relatively poor physical and mechanical properties when compared to newly manufactured rubber. The deterioration of these properties arises from the structural changes which occur during the reclaiming process. To overcome this disadvantage, reclaimed rubber can be blended with other rubbers such as natural rubber to compensate for its weak properties. However, there is stilll a limited industrial application of reclaimed/natural rubber blends due to their brittleness and relatively poor impact strength. By adding reinforcing fillers, the mechanical properties of the blends can be significantly improved. In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in the use of lignocellulosic materials as fillers, modifiers and reinforcements in polymeric materials. They are receiving attention because they are the most abundantly available raw materials on earth, and they offer greater versatility compared to inorganic fillers. Being the most abundant renewable agricultural derived lignocellulosic biomass after cellulose, and as far as polymer composites and blends are concerned, lignin has shown promise as a well-received and sustainable alternative to inorganic fillers due to its low-cost production and ability to improve on the biodegradability of polyolefins and minimise loss of ultimate mechanical properties of polymer matrices. The main aim of the research is to investigate the effect of lignin on the properties of reclaimed/natural rubber (RR/NR) blends for possible low-density and eco-friendly rubber materials. The motivation for the research arises from the global challenges that are connected to the dynamic increase of rubber wastes, especially in the form of used tyres and the potential availability of lignin from its annual production from the sugarcane pulp mills, which is regarded as waste. A mixture design of experiments was used to formulate different blends of lignin with reclaimed and natural rubber. The rubber blends and the lignin-rubber , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Evaluation of the mesozooplankton functional diversity indices in Algoa Bay as proxies to assess the stability of the food chain leading to the African penguin (Spheniscus demersus)
- Authors: Rukuni, Praxedes Vimbai
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Marine zooplankton --South Africa -- Algoa bay , Penguins -- South Africa -- Conservation , Fishes -- Predators of -- South Africa -- Algoa Bay
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59956 , vital:62698
- Description: Current unprecedented environmental changes threaten food web and ecosystem stability, which is particularly concerning in areas with vulnerable species such as the endangered African penguin Spheniscus demersus. In this study I adopted a holistic approach integrating many ecosystem levels to better understand African penguin behavioural ecology and food web stability. I investigated interplay between physico-chemical parameters and zooplankton functional diversity at various temporal and spatial scales in Algoa Bay. The study further investigated the applicability of zooplankton functional diversity (FD) in inferring African penguin food web stability by comparing the FD of zooplankton found in anchovies regurgitated from African penguins and the ones found in the Bay PELTER Stations. Gut contents of anchovies regurgitated from Bird Island and St Croix penguins were also evaluated using Frequency of Occurrence and Dominance methods and compared between colonies. Zooplankton FD in Algoa Bay varied over time but not at spatial scales with chlorophyll-a, Sea Surface Temperature (SST), turbidity and salinity being potential drivers of zooplankton FD. Chlorophyll-a and salinity were positively correlated with FD, meanwhile FD was inversely correlated to turbidity and SST. The study also observed minor differences in the physico-chemical parameters associated with African penguin foraging grounds, though different dietary preferences were found between the anchovies regurgitated from penguins from the two colonies. Anchovies regurgitated by penguins from Bird Island targeted large sized groups such as Decapods, meanwhile anchovies from the St Croix penguin colony targeted small sized Ostracods and Cirripedia. This study therefore, provides insight on the influence of fluctuations in physico-chemical parameters in shaping zooplankton communities in Algoa Bay. The study also emphasises anchovy dietary plasticity, switching from selective feeding to opportunistic feeding in instances of prey shortages which contributes to a stable African penguin food web in the face of climate change. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Rukuni, Praxedes Vimbai
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Marine zooplankton --South Africa -- Algoa bay , Penguins -- South Africa -- Conservation , Fishes -- Predators of -- South Africa -- Algoa Bay
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59956 , vital:62698
- Description: Current unprecedented environmental changes threaten food web and ecosystem stability, which is particularly concerning in areas with vulnerable species such as the endangered African penguin Spheniscus demersus. In this study I adopted a holistic approach integrating many ecosystem levels to better understand African penguin behavioural ecology and food web stability. I investigated interplay between physico-chemical parameters and zooplankton functional diversity at various temporal and spatial scales in Algoa Bay. The study further investigated the applicability of zooplankton functional diversity (FD) in inferring African penguin food web stability by comparing the FD of zooplankton found in anchovies regurgitated from African penguins and the ones found in the Bay PELTER Stations. Gut contents of anchovies regurgitated from Bird Island and St Croix penguins were also evaluated using Frequency of Occurrence and Dominance methods and compared between colonies. Zooplankton FD in Algoa Bay varied over time but not at spatial scales with chlorophyll-a, Sea Surface Temperature (SST), turbidity and salinity being potential drivers of zooplankton FD. Chlorophyll-a and salinity were positively correlated with FD, meanwhile FD was inversely correlated to turbidity and SST. The study also observed minor differences in the physico-chemical parameters associated with African penguin foraging grounds, though different dietary preferences were found between the anchovies regurgitated from penguins from the two colonies. Anchovies regurgitated by penguins from Bird Island targeted large sized groups such as Decapods, meanwhile anchovies from the St Croix penguin colony targeted small sized Ostracods and Cirripedia. This study therefore, provides insight on the influence of fluctuations in physico-chemical parameters in shaping zooplankton communities in Algoa Bay. The study also emphasises anchovy dietary plasticity, switching from selective feeding to opportunistic feeding in instances of prey shortages which contributes to a stable African penguin food web in the face of climate change. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Experiences of Family Caregivers Caring for Mentally Ill Relatives in a Rural District of the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Koti, Tulisile
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Caregivers -- Eastern Cape , Mental illness -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60166 , vital:63208
- Description: Mental illness refers to all diagnosable mental disorders, whether by a medical doctor or a psychiatrist. It includes significant changes in thinking, emotion, and behavior and may result in distress or difficulty functioning in society, work or family. South Africa has been on a de-institutionalization path for several decades, despite this, many mentally ill people are forced to live at home with their families. As a result, family caregivers have been faced with responsibilities for which they are unprepared. The burden of caring for the mentally ill causes distress and challenges for the primary caregiver and the family members involved in the care. This study aimed to explore the experiences and coping of caregivers living with mentally ill relatives. The researcher utilized Lazarus and Folkman's psychological stress and coping theory and other relevant literature to conceptualize the study. The study made use of a qualitative and exploratory design. Seven individual face-to-face interviews were conducted with semi-structured questions. Purposeful and snowball samples were used, and the study was analyzed using thematic analysis. Based on the study's findings, caring for a mentally ill relative had negative and positive outcomes for the caregiver. There were more negative experiences than there were positive ones. However, caregivers found ways to cope with these negative experiences. These findings should contribute to educating health professionals who are the primary contact for mentally ill patients and their family caregivers in rural communities. This will assist in pursuit of the third Sustainable Development goals (SDG3) which aims to “ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages”. This study produced an understanding of the lived experiences of caregivers in a rural Eastern Cape. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Koti, Tulisile
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Caregivers -- Eastern Cape , Mental illness -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60166 , vital:63208
- Description: Mental illness refers to all diagnosable mental disorders, whether by a medical doctor or a psychiatrist. It includes significant changes in thinking, emotion, and behavior and may result in distress or difficulty functioning in society, work or family. South Africa has been on a de-institutionalization path for several decades, despite this, many mentally ill people are forced to live at home with their families. As a result, family caregivers have been faced with responsibilities for which they are unprepared. The burden of caring for the mentally ill causes distress and challenges for the primary caregiver and the family members involved in the care. This study aimed to explore the experiences and coping of caregivers living with mentally ill relatives. The researcher utilized Lazarus and Folkman's psychological stress and coping theory and other relevant literature to conceptualize the study. The study made use of a qualitative and exploratory design. Seven individual face-to-face interviews were conducted with semi-structured questions. Purposeful and snowball samples were used, and the study was analyzed using thematic analysis. Based on the study's findings, caring for a mentally ill relative had negative and positive outcomes for the caregiver. There were more negative experiences than there were positive ones. However, caregivers found ways to cope with these negative experiences. These findings should contribute to educating health professionals who are the primary contact for mentally ill patients and their family caregivers in rural communities. This will assist in pursuit of the third Sustainable Development goals (SDG3) which aims to “ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages”. This study produced an understanding of the lived experiences of caregivers in a rural Eastern Cape. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Exploring a humanising pedagogy in the teaching of mathematics in engineering related subjects at TVET colleges
- Vimbelo, Siphokazi Winniefred
- Authors: Vimbelo, Siphokazi Winniefred
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Mathematics--Study and teaching--Research , Mathematics--engineering , Pepagogy
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60523 , vital:65641
- Description: Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is the practical avenue for acquiring employability skills for the world of work. Employability skills can be acquired through engineering programmes as engineering programmes at TVET colleges are amongst those in the highest demand category of employability. Mathematics is the fundamental subject for engineering. However, the learning environment at TVET colleges is not suitable for vocational students. The mathematics curriculum at TVET is also less related to real-life vocational education and the teaching approaches are not conducive to TVET students’ needs. Teaching approaches employed are often not positioned in a socially just way in that lecturers focus more on what is important for the examinations rather than using the students’ background as a resource. These challenges can be related to the kind of pedagogies employed by TVET college lecturers in the teaching of mathematics. The current study investigates this essential space by focusing on exploring a Humanising Pedagogy (HP) in the teaching of mathematics at a TVET college. A HP was used to explore current pedagogies employed by TVET lecturers in their mathematics classroom at South West Gauteng College (SWGC) – Molapo Campus in Gauteng, South Africa. A qualitative approach was used, and data was collected through lesson observations and narratives obtained from the lecturers. Narrative inquiry was also used as the research design, as well as Interpretivism which is the research paradigm for this study. The data were collected from ten TVET mathematics lecturers. Five lecturers were from the National Certificate Vocational (NCV) and the other five from the NATED programmes. Lesson observations were analysed using deductive thematic analysis and paradigmatic analysis was used for narratives. The findings revealed that TVET college lecturers use a traditional approach in a sense that they are the only ones doing the talking. Student engagement is minimal as they do not relate mathematical principles under study to students’ lives. However, the results after exploring a HP revealed that teaching transformed from the teacher-centred approach to the humanistic student-centred approach which related mathematical principles to students’ real lived experience. A HP mathematics approach was taught using a social justice lens. Lecturers experienced HP as the approach that enhances mathematics understanding, values students’ voices, is relevant to vocational students, and is student-centred. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, School of Post Graduate Education, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Vimbelo, Siphokazi Winniefred
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Mathematics--Study and teaching--Research , Mathematics--engineering , Pepagogy
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60523 , vital:65641
- Description: Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is the practical avenue for acquiring employability skills for the world of work. Employability skills can be acquired through engineering programmes as engineering programmes at TVET colleges are amongst those in the highest demand category of employability. Mathematics is the fundamental subject for engineering. However, the learning environment at TVET colleges is not suitable for vocational students. The mathematics curriculum at TVET is also less related to real-life vocational education and the teaching approaches are not conducive to TVET students’ needs. Teaching approaches employed are often not positioned in a socially just way in that lecturers focus more on what is important for the examinations rather than using the students’ background as a resource. These challenges can be related to the kind of pedagogies employed by TVET college lecturers in the teaching of mathematics. The current study investigates this essential space by focusing on exploring a Humanising Pedagogy (HP) in the teaching of mathematics at a TVET college. A HP was used to explore current pedagogies employed by TVET lecturers in their mathematics classroom at South West Gauteng College (SWGC) – Molapo Campus in Gauteng, South Africa. A qualitative approach was used, and data was collected through lesson observations and narratives obtained from the lecturers. Narrative inquiry was also used as the research design, as well as Interpretivism which is the research paradigm for this study. The data were collected from ten TVET mathematics lecturers. Five lecturers were from the National Certificate Vocational (NCV) and the other five from the NATED programmes. Lesson observations were analysed using deductive thematic analysis and paradigmatic analysis was used for narratives. The findings revealed that TVET college lecturers use a traditional approach in a sense that they are the only ones doing the talking. Student engagement is minimal as they do not relate mathematical principles under study to students’ lives. However, the results after exploring a HP revealed that teaching transformed from the teacher-centred approach to the humanistic student-centred approach which related mathematical principles to students’ real lived experience. A HP mathematics approach was taught using a social justice lens. Lecturers experienced HP as the approach that enhances mathematics understanding, values students’ voices, is relevant to vocational students, and is student-centred. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, School of Post Graduate Education, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Exploring the Methodologies Used by Construction Project Managers in South Africa
- Authors: Ferreira, Ruan
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Construction -- South Africa , Project Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59381 , vital:62076
- Description: This study aimed to determine the prevalent project management methodologies (PMMs) are adopted within the South African construction industry. The insight obtained from this study will enhance awareness of the type of methodologies adopted by construction project managers. Moreover, through implementation of these methodologies, control can be enhanced, and the unknown managed. The predominant project management methodology used by construction project managers in South Africa is unknown. A quantitative research approach was used, and an online questionnaire was sent to the South African Council for the Project and Construction Management Professions (SACPCMP). The questionnaire was then administered and sent to the entire population of registered construction project managers (CPMs). The data from 103 respondents were captured onto a database and then statistically analysed to determine the predominant PMMs adopted by CPMs as well as their effect on project success. The study revealed that lean methodology is most widely adopted by CPMs, followed by the critical path method and Waterfall methodology. CPMs strive to reduce waste throughout the building process and organise that materials are only on site when required. Furthermore, a high level of PMM is adopted during the project life cycle phases. As a result, it can favourably impact projects and lead to project success. Adopting PMMs will result in improved control of project goals and scope, a shorter time of project execution, improved and efficient decision making, a higher degree of client satisfaction, and improved knowledge management and information exchange. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Ferreira, Ruan
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Construction -- South Africa , Project Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59381 , vital:62076
- Description: This study aimed to determine the prevalent project management methodologies (PMMs) are adopted within the South African construction industry. The insight obtained from this study will enhance awareness of the type of methodologies adopted by construction project managers. Moreover, through implementation of these methodologies, control can be enhanced, and the unknown managed. The predominant project management methodology used by construction project managers in South Africa is unknown. A quantitative research approach was used, and an online questionnaire was sent to the South African Council for the Project and Construction Management Professions (SACPCMP). The questionnaire was then administered and sent to the entire population of registered construction project managers (CPMs). The data from 103 respondents were captured onto a database and then statistically analysed to determine the predominant PMMs adopted by CPMs as well as their effect on project success. The study revealed that lean methodology is most widely adopted by CPMs, followed by the critical path method and Waterfall methodology. CPMs strive to reduce waste throughout the building process and organise that materials are only on site when required. Furthermore, a high level of PMM is adopted during the project life cycle phases. As a result, it can favourably impact projects and lead to project success. Adopting PMMs will result in improved control of project goals and scope, a shorter time of project execution, improved and efficient decision making, a higher degree of client satisfaction, and improved knowledge management and information exchange. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Factors that impact the use of digital learning in higher education
- Authors: Mtshabe Mxolisi
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Education, Higher , Blended learning , Communication of technical information
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59576 , vital:62174
- Description: Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) have significantly changed the way they execute their pedagogical processes. This is so, mainly because of the innovations and developments in the ICT sector. HEIs have always succeeded in the implementation of ICT tools for the facilitation of the process of teaching and learning; however, they have faced many challenges related to the utilisation of these tools. Digital learning is among the ICT tools considered by the majority of HEIs to be relevant at this age of digitisation. ICT has introduced a variety of tools, not only for teaching and learning environments, but also for socialisation. These tools include social media tools that are used to achieve different activities in response to the demands of society. In making a comparison between social media and pedagogical tools, there is a huge gap in the level of usage of the two. Social media is much more being used than digital learning and this brings major concerns because users seem to be more interested in social media tools to perform academic activities, than in digital learning. This study has explored the factors that could play a role in digital learning and social media usage in HEIs. The study employed quantitative research methods and a survey was developed and distributed to former university students. The purpose of the study was to formulate a checklist that will inform the factors that impact the use of digital learning in HEIs. At the conclusion of the study, the checklist was formulated and recommendations were made. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Mtshabe Mxolisi
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Education, Higher , Blended learning , Communication of technical information
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59576 , vital:62174
- Description: Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) have significantly changed the way they execute their pedagogical processes. This is so, mainly because of the innovations and developments in the ICT sector. HEIs have always succeeded in the implementation of ICT tools for the facilitation of the process of teaching and learning; however, they have faced many challenges related to the utilisation of these tools. Digital learning is among the ICT tools considered by the majority of HEIs to be relevant at this age of digitisation. ICT has introduced a variety of tools, not only for teaching and learning environments, but also for socialisation. These tools include social media tools that are used to achieve different activities in response to the demands of society. In making a comparison between social media and pedagogical tools, there is a huge gap in the level of usage of the two. Social media is much more being used than digital learning and this brings major concerns because users seem to be more interested in social media tools to perform academic activities, than in digital learning. This study has explored the factors that could play a role in digital learning and social media usage in HEIs. The study employed quantitative research methods and a survey was developed and distributed to former university students. The purpose of the study was to formulate a checklist that will inform the factors that impact the use of digital learning in HEIs. At the conclusion of the study, the checklist was formulated and recommendations were made. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Fixed point theory in metric and normed Spaces
- Authors: Naude, Luan
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Metric spaces – South Africa , Banach spaces – South Africa , Mappings (Mathematics)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59898 , vital:62686
- Description: In this dissertation, we present major results in the theory of fixed points in metric and normed spaces. We start with a review of the Banach fixed point theorem and some of its applications (in systems of linear equations, differential equations, integral equations, and dynamical systems), and then discuss many of its extensions and generalizations. We look at the theorem of Edelstein ([8, Remark 3.1]) in compact metric spaces, and a generalizaton of it proved by Suzuki ([19, Theorem 3]) in 2009. We then give a detailed account of the work of Meyers: In [11], Meyers proved generalizations of the Banach fixed point theorem to uniform local contractions, and, in [10], a converse to the Banach fixed point theorem. Finally, we look at some of Browder’s work in fixed point theory. In [6], he showed the existence of fixed points for nonexpansive mappings on bounded, closed, and convex sets in uniformly convex Banach spaces, and, in [5], he proved similar results in Hilbert spaces using a connection between nonexpansive mappings and monotone operators. Keywords: Fixed point, Functional analysis, Metric spaces, Banach spaces, Hilbert spaces, contractions, Banach fixed point theorem, nonexpansive mappings. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Naude, Luan
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Metric spaces – South Africa , Banach spaces – South Africa , Mappings (Mathematics)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59898 , vital:62686
- Description: In this dissertation, we present major results in the theory of fixed points in metric and normed spaces. We start with a review of the Banach fixed point theorem and some of its applications (in systems of linear equations, differential equations, integral equations, and dynamical systems), and then discuss many of its extensions and generalizations. We look at the theorem of Edelstein ([8, Remark 3.1]) in compact metric spaces, and a generalizaton of it proved by Suzuki ([19, Theorem 3]) in 2009. We then give a detailed account of the work of Meyers: In [11], Meyers proved generalizations of the Banach fixed point theorem to uniform local contractions, and, in [10], a converse to the Banach fixed point theorem. Finally, we look at some of Browder’s work in fixed point theory. In [6], he showed the existence of fixed points for nonexpansive mappings on bounded, closed, and convex sets in uniformly convex Banach spaces, and, in [5], he proved similar results in Hilbert spaces using a connection between nonexpansive mappings and monotone operators. Keywords: Fixed point, Functional analysis, Metric spaces, Banach spaces, Hilbert spaces, contractions, Banach fixed point theorem, nonexpansive mappings. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Grain size analysis, coastal hydrodynamics and erosion protection: a case study from Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, South Africa
- Authors: Pezisa, Ayabulela Raymond
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Grain -- Analysis , Hydrodynamics , Shore protection
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27698 , vital:69394
- Description: The modern beach sands and Cretaceous Knysna Formation distributed along the coast of Plettenberg Bay and Knysna coast in the Western Cape Province of South Africa, have been examined and studied in the field outcrops and laborataries via grain-size analysis, XRD, SEM, EDX and microcope petrography analyses. This study looked into the coastal hydrodynamics and environment protection. The project aims to investigate the sediment distribution, grain-size variation, sedimentary structures, coast erosion and mitigation in the Plettenberg and Knysna coast to address environmental issues in the south coast of South Africa. The research will provide new insight onto coastal sedimentation, hydrodynamic condition, coastline erosion and the safety of the coastal environment and human property. The study will promote government attention on the sea level change, which caused flooding and environmental disaster along the south coastal area of South Africa. The rock sequence in the inland side of the study areas belongs to Cretaceous Knysna Formation, which comprises seven upward fining sequences. The stratigraphic sequence is underlain by the Table Mountain quartzite of the Cape Supergroup, and is overlain by Tertiary sediments and modern coastal dune sands. The Knysna Formation at the research area consists of massive conglomerate, sandstone and minor mudstone of mainly fluvial dominated sediments. The grain size analysis reveals that the modern fluvial channels at Plettenberg Bay and Knysna areas are of dominant coarse sands with minor silt and mud, which defines the sediments were deposited by moderate to high energy currents. Whilst the beach zones in Plettenberg Bay are predominated by fine to medium-grained marine sands. Grain-size analyses of beach sands show well-sorted, fine to coarse skewed in grain size distribution, indicating a relative lower to medium uniform energy condition during transportation and deposition. The bivariate plots of grain-size distribution demonstrate of the shallow agitated marine environment with the influence of tide and aeolian processes. Hydrodynamic condition in the beach area was more persistant and less variation compared to the river environment. The mineralogy and petrology studies revealed that in Plettenberg Bay and Knysna sediments are predominantly consisted of minerals quartz, feldspar, calcite, muscovite, aragonite, clay minerals, and salts (halite). Skeletal carbonate minerals (shell and coral fragments) are more than chemical precipitated carbonate minerals. The microtextures detected on the surface of the fluvial and marine sand grais involve V-shaped pits, upturn pits, dissolution pits and secondary mineral precipitation that were created by chemical and mechanical processes formed via sea-water dissolution, corrosion, and transport crashing. Whereas the boring holes and burrows created by activity of microorganisms boing into the surface of the grains. These microtextures of the river and beach sands exhibit a shallow marine and fluvial environments with medium to high energy conditions and active organic activities. Several sedimentary structures were detected in the coastal environments, including various types of ripple marks and dunes, burst bubble-hole, swash line, rill marks, rhomboid marks, burrows, boring and bioturbation, planar lamination and gravel pavement. In addition, sedimentary structures were also identified in the Cretaceous Knysna Formation such as air/water escape hole, convolute bedding, lenticular bedding, tabular cross-bedding and load cast. The sedimetnary structures closely linked with hydrodynamic conditions and therefore can be used as indicators for depositional environments. Flooding and erosion had become a coastal disaster that results in sediment redistribution throughout the coastal system and therefore caused landscape reform like coastal cliffs and sharpened dunes in erosive areas. Particularly, coastal hazards become more and more serious in recent years due to climate and sea leavel changes. Thus, to recognise coastal erosion and disaster and make a management strategy is of significant importance to compete against coastline retreat and to protect infrastructure and human safety in the coast area. The author had proposed a number of mitigation methods for environmental protection and for combating coastal erosion, including breakwaters, groins, jetties, vertical walls, rock armour, vegetation, boundary hardening, and revetment etc, which are the effective ways for protection of coast retreat, property damage and human safety. , Thesis (MSci) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Pezisa, Ayabulela Raymond
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Grain -- Analysis , Hydrodynamics , Shore protection
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27698 , vital:69394
- Description: The modern beach sands and Cretaceous Knysna Formation distributed along the coast of Plettenberg Bay and Knysna coast in the Western Cape Province of South Africa, have been examined and studied in the field outcrops and laborataries via grain-size analysis, XRD, SEM, EDX and microcope petrography analyses. This study looked into the coastal hydrodynamics and environment protection. The project aims to investigate the sediment distribution, grain-size variation, sedimentary structures, coast erosion and mitigation in the Plettenberg and Knysna coast to address environmental issues in the south coast of South Africa. The research will provide new insight onto coastal sedimentation, hydrodynamic condition, coastline erosion and the safety of the coastal environment and human property. The study will promote government attention on the sea level change, which caused flooding and environmental disaster along the south coastal area of South Africa. The rock sequence in the inland side of the study areas belongs to Cretaceous Knysna Formation, which comprises seven upward fining sequences. The stratigraphic sequence is underlain by the Table Mountain quartzite of the Cape Supergroup, and is overlain by Tertiary sediments and modern coastal dune sands. The Knysna Formation at the research area consists of massive conglomerate, sandstone and minor mudstone of mainly fluvial dominated sediments. The grain size analysis reveals that the modern fluvial channels at Plettenberg Bay and Knysna areas are of dominant coarse sands with minor silt and mud, which defines the sediments were deposited by moderate to high energy currents. Whilst the beach zones in Plettenberg Bay are predominated by fine to medium-grained marine sands. Grain-size analyses of beach sands show well-sorted, fine to coarse skewed in grain size distribution, indicating a relative lower to medium uniform energy condition during transportation and deposition. The bivariate plots of grain-size distribution demonstrate of the shallow agitated marine environment with the influence of tide and aeolian processes. Hydrodynamic condition in the beach area was more persistant and less variation compared to the river environment. The mineralogy and petrology studies revealed that in Plettenberg Bay and Knysna sediments are predominantly consisted of minerals quartz, feldspar, calcite, muscovite, aragonite, clay minerals, and salts (halite). Skeletal carbonate minerals (shell and coral fragments) are more than chemical precipitated carbonate minerals. The microtextures detected on the surface of the fluvial and marine sand grais involve V-shaped pits, upturn pits, dissolution pits and secondary mineral precipitation that were created by chemical and mechanical processes formed via sea-water dissolution, corrosion, and transport crashing. Whereas the boring holes and burrows created by activity of microorganisms boing into the surface of the grains. These microtextures of the river and beach sands exhibit a shallow marine and fluvial environments with medium to high energy conditions and active organic activities. Several sedimentary structures were detected in the coastal environments, including various types of ripple marks and dunes, burst bubble-hole, swash line, rill marks, rhomboid marks, burrows, boring and bioturbation, planar lamination and gravel pavement. In addition, sedimentary structures were also identified in the Cretaceous Knysna Formation such as air/water escape hole, convolute bedding, lenticular bedding, tabular cross-bedding and load cast. The sedimetnary structures closely linked with hydrodynamic conditions and therefore can be used as indicators for depositional environments. Flooding and erosion had become a coastal disaster that results in sediment redistribution throughout the coastal system and therefore caused landscape reform like coastal cliffs and sharpened dunes in erosive areas. Particularly, coastal hazards become more and more serious in recent years due to climate and sea leavel changes. Thus, to recognise coastal erosion and disaster and make a management strategy is of significant importance to compete against coastline retreat and to protect infrastructure and human safety in the coast area. The author had proposed a number of mitigation methods for environmental protection and for combating coastal erosion, including breakwaters, groins, jetties, vertical walls, rock armour, vegetation, boundary hardening, and revetment etc, which are the effective ways for protection of coast retreat, property damage and human safety. , Thesis (MSci) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Growth performance of three F1 Hybrid tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Cultivars grown in Peat moss and Sawdust
- Authors: Mondile, Landile
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tomatoes – Irrigation – Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59853 , vital:62450
- Description: The tomato is one of the most important and commonly grown vegetable crops cultivated by subsistence as well as commercial farmers in South Africa. Even though hydroponic tomato production has gained popularity, tomato production in South Africa is mostly practised open field. This is because most South African households in rural communities depend on agriculture for their livelihoods. Tomatoes are one of the “cash crops” − meaning cash in hand for many farmers. As a staple food for many rural communities and households, tomatoes are prepared as relish daily. Including tomatoes in the human diet provides the benefit of various important nutrients, such as Vitamin C, amongst others. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the growth performance − by assessing the number of leaves, stem diameter, plant height and number of flowers per plant − in three Solanum lycopersicum L. cultivars, namely: F1 hybrids Star9006, TF4009 and TF4011, grown in peat moss and sawdust respectively. In addition, the research aimed at investigating how peat moss and sawdust, as growing media, influenced the growth performance of the tomato cultivars under study. The study was conducted at the Döhne Agricultural Development Institute near Stutterheim in the Eastern Cape. The experiment was laid out in a split randomized complete block design (RCBD) in which the growing media, namely: sawdust and peat moss, were assigned as main plots and the tomato cultivars to sub-plots, with three replicates. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Mondile, Landile
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tomatoes – Irrigation – Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59853 , vital:62450
- Description: The tomato is one of the most important and commonly grown vegetable crops cultivated by subsistence as well as commercial farmers in South Africa. Even though hydroponic tomato production has gained popularity, tomato production in South Africa is mostly practised open field. This is because most South African households in rural communities depend on agriculture for their livelihoods. Tomatoes are one of the “cash crops” − meaning cash in hand for many farmers. As a staple food for many rural communities and households, tomatoes are prepared as relish daily. Including tomatoes in the human diet provides the benefit of various important nutrients, such as Vitamin C, amongst others. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the growth performance − by assessing the number of leaves, stem diameter, plant height and number of flowers per plant − in three Solanum lycopersicum L. cultivars, namely: F1 hybrids Star9006, TF4009 and TF4011, grown in peat moss and sawdust respectively. In addition, the research aimed at investigating how peat moss and sawdust, as growing media, influenced the growth performance of the tomato cultivars under study. The study was conducted at the Döhne Agricultural Development Institute near Stutterheim in the Eastern Cape. The experiment was laid out in a split randomized complete block design (RCBD) in which the growing media, namely: sawdust and peat moss, were assigned as main plots and the tomato cultivars to sub-plots, with three replicates. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Habitat use by Juvenile coastal fish in subtidal vegetated habitats of Algoa Bay;s shallow water seascape
- Authors: Mkhize,Thembani
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Sailing ships -- South Africa -- Algoa Bay --History , Marine fishes -- Algoa Bay -- South Africa , Fish improvement habitat
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59788 , vital:62429
- Description: Structurally complex habitats such as seagrass, mangroves, and seaweed are important as nurseries in estuaries and nearshore marine environments. While numerous studies have focussed on structurally complex vegetated habitats in estuaries, few studies have focussed on vegetated nursery habitats (particularly seaweed) in coastal areas and their importance. The main aim of this project is to examine the nature of shallow water vegetated habitat (Zostera capensis seagrass and Plocamium corallorhiza macroalga) usage by juvenile fish in the Algoa Bay shallow water seascape (Swartkops Estuary and Flat Rocks nearshore subtidal reef). This aim was achieved by quantifying and comparing complexity of these two habitat-forming species, and the fish assemblages (relative abundance, richness, size structure and behaviour) across the two habitats. To measure and compare complexity of Z. capensis and P. corallorhiza, canopy height, density and leaf/blade width were sampled. In addition to these structural complexity indices, Fractal D (dimensionless complexity indices) was also quantified using Image software. Zostera capensis (1553.3 Indiv/m2 ) had a slightly higher mean density compared to P. corallorhiza (1303.7 Indiv/m2 ) but the difference was not significant. When sites (within each habitat) were compared, density did not show any significant differences between sites. Canopy height of Z. capensis (56.9 cm) was significantly higher compared to P. corallorhiza (16.6 cm), with no significant differences between sites. On the other hand, P. corallorhiza (0.9 cm) blades were significantly wider than Z. capensis (0.2 cm) leaves. Fractal D values followed the same trend as leaf/blade width with, with P. corallorhiza (1.8) having significantly higher Fractal D values than Z. capensis (1.5). The last two indices also had a positive relationship as Fractal D increased with increasing leaf/blade width. These results show that overall P. corallorhiza is more structurally complex than Z. capensis. Calibrated mini stereo underwater remote video systems (mini stereo-RUVs) were optimised in these two studied habitats to ensure they were suitable to measure and identify juvenile fishes. A pilot optimization study found that a minimum of five deployments and a minimum of 45 minutes filming duration is required to study fish assemblages in these two habitats. For comparison of fish assemblages and assessment of habitat use by fish, mini stereo-RUVs were deployed in both habitats (three sites per habitat) and were left to record for 60 minutes for a v total of five sampling occasions in seagrass and seven sampling occasions in macroalga between 7 September 2020 and 9 April 2021. Collected videos were analysed, with relative abundance (MaxN), richness and fish length extracted. Fish behaviour was also analysed and compared between habitats. Mean fish MaxN was slightly higher in Z. capensis (3.4) than in P. corallorhiza (2.9), although this result was not significant. Species diversity was significantly higher in P. corallorhiza as shown by both richness (Z. capensis = 11 and P. corallorhiza = 18) and the Shannon diversity index (Z. capensis = 1.3 and P. corallorhiza = 1.7). Both habitats were dominated by species from the family Sparidae, with six estuary-associated marine species common between the two habitats. Both Z. capensis and P. corallorhiza were dominated by juvenile fish, with more than 70 % of measured fish being juveniles. Fish length was not significantly different in the two habitats. Juvenile fish assemblages were significantly distinct between the two habitats (ANOSIM). In terms of habitat use, fish behaviour analysis showed that fish use both habitats as nurseries. There was no significant difference in fish behaviour in the two habitats and fish behaviours associated with higher levels of habitat use (slow meandering and feeding) were the most common behaviours in both habitats. Although not significant, feeding behaviour (also associated with a high degree of habitat use) was observed more in macroalga than in the seagrass habitat. Although none of the studied complexity indices could be related to abundance, both leaf/blade width and Fractal Dimension showed a positive relationship with the number of species recorded, while canopy height showed a strong negative relationship with the number of species. Overall, this study shows that Plocamium corallorhiza red macroalga in the shallow marine environment may be as important in shallow marine environments as Zostera capensis seagrass in estuaries as nursery habitats for marine fi , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Mkhize,Thembani
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Sailing ships -- South Africa -- Algoa Bay --History , Marine fishes -- Algoa Bay -- South Africa , Fish improvement habitat
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59788 , vital:62429
- Description: Structurally complex habitats such as seagrass, mangroves, and seaweed are important as nurseries in estuaries and nearshore marine environments. While numerous studies have focussed on structurally complex vegetated habitats in estuaries, few studies have focussed on vegetated nursery habitats (particularly seaweed) in coastal areas and their importance. The main aim of this project is to examine the nature of shallow water vegetated habitat (Zostera capensis seagrass and Plocamium corallorhiza macroalga) usage by juvenile fish in the Algoa Bay shallow water seascape (Swartkops Estuary and Flat Rocks nearshore subtidal reef). This aim was achieved by quantifying and comparing complexity of these two habitat-forming species, and the fish assemblages (relative abundance, richness, size structure and behaviour) across the two habitats. To measure and compare complexity of Z. capensis and P. corallorhiza, canopy height, density and leaf/blade width were sampled. In addition to these structural complexity indices, Fractal D (dimensionless complexity indices) was also quantified using Image software. Zostera capensis (1553.3 Indiv/m2 ) had a slightly higher mean density compared to P. corallorhiza (1303.7 Indiv/m2 ) but the difference was not significant. When sites (within each habitat) were compared, density did not show any significant differences between sites. Canopy height of Z. capensis (56.9 cm) was significantly higher compared to P. corallorhiza (16.6 cm), with no significant differences between sites. On the other hand, P. corallorhiza (0.9 cm) blades were significantly wider than Z. capensis (0.2 cm) leaves. Fractal D values followed the same trend as leaf/blade width with, with P. corallorhiza (1.8) having significantly higher Fractal D values than Z. capensis (1.5). The last two indices also had a positive relationship as Fractal D increased with increasing leaf/blade width. These results show that overall P. corallorhiza is more structurally complex than Z. capensis. Calibrated mini stereo underwater remote video systems (mini stereo-RUVs) were optimised in these two studied habitats to ensure they were suitable to measure and identify juvenile fishes. A pilot optimization study found that a minimum of five deployments and a minimum of 45 minutes filming duration is required to study fish assemblages in these two habitats. For comparison of fish assemblages and assessment of habitat use by fish, mini stereo-RUVs were deployed in both habitats (three sites per habitat) and were left to record for 60 minutes for a v total of five sampling occasions in seagrass and seven sampling occasions in macroalga between 7 September 2020 and 9 April 2021. Collected videos were analysed, with relative abundance (MaxN), richness and fish length extracted. Fish behaviour was also analysed and compared between habitats. Mean fish MaxN was slightly higher in Z. capensis (3.4) than in P. corallorhiza (2.9), although this result was not significant. Species diversity was significantly higher in P. corallorhiza as shown by both richness (Z. capensis = 11 and P. corallorhiza = 18) and the Shannon diversity index (Z. capensis = 1.3 and P. corallorhiza = 1.7). Both habitats were dominated by species from the family Sparidae, with six estuary-associated marine species common between the two habitats. Both Z. capensis and P. corallorhiza were dominated by juvenile fish, with more than 70 % of measured fish being juveniles. Fish length was not significantly different in the two habitats. Juvenile fish assemblages were significantly distinct between the two habitats (ANOSIM). In terms of habitat use, fish behaviour analysis showed that fish use both habitats as nurseries. There was no significant difference in fish behaviour in the two habitats and fish behaviours associated with higher levels of habitat use (slow meandering and feeding) were the most common behaviours in both habitats. Although not significant, feeding behaviour (also associated with a high degree of habitat use) was observed more in macroalga than in the seagrass habitat. Although none of the studied complexity indices could be related to abundance, both leaf/blade width and Fractal Dimension showed a positive relationship with the number of species recorded, while canopy height showed a strong negative relationship with the number of species. Overall, this study shows that Plocamium corallorhiza red macroalga in the shallow marine environment may be as important in shallow marine environments as Zostera capensis seagrass in estuaries as nursery habitats for marine fi , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Hooked on Gqom: an ethnographic study of a contemporary urban youth musical identity in South Africa
- Katushabe,Bathandwa Mathias Ngasiirwe
- Authors: Katushabe,Bathandwa Mathias Ngasiirwe
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Electric dance Music -- South Africa -- Durban , Kwaito Music -- Social Ascpects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59326 , vital:62045
- Description: Gqom music has grown from being a relatively obscure sub-genre of South African Kwaito into a globally recognised sonic identity and social movement. Gqom, as a distinct music style, has featured heavily in mass media since 2015, spawning social phenomena such as viral dance challenges on various social media platforms, and constituting a launch pad for the careers of musicians such as DJ Lag and the Distruction Boyz. Gqom also featured in the international motion picture Black Panther in 2018, and in the 2019 Lion King: The Gift album by American pop icon Beyoncé. Although the origins of Gqom, its characteristics, impact, and ascension to noteworthiness have received attention in the form of newspaper articles, online blogs, YouTube documentaries, etc, and small treatises or academic articles, little literature has been generated about the music and its theoretical construction as sonic and social phenomena. I argue that by using the theoretical scaffolds of ‘identity politics’, specifically ‘identities in music’, one is better able to understand Gqom as reflective of a broader social urban youth identity characterised by partying and political disillusionment. In other words, I make the case for an intergroup identification that prioritises in-group musical identities associated with Gqom and its phenomenology of practices which I have excavated using an ethnographic qualitative method. , Thesis (MMus) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Visual and performing Arts, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Hooked on Gqom: an ethnographic study of a contemporary urban youth musical identity in South Africa
- Authors: Katushabe,Bathandwa Mathias Ngasiirwe
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Electric dance Music -- South Africa -- Durban , Kwaito Music -- Social Ascpects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59326 , vital:62045
- Description: Gqom music has grown from being a relatively obscure sub-genre of South African Kwaito into a globally recognised sonic identity and social movement. Gqom, as a distinct music style, has featured heavily in mass media since 2015, spawning social phenomena such as viral dance challenges on various social media platforms, and constituting a launch pad for the careers of musicians such as DJ Lag and the Distruction Boyz. Gqom also featured in the international motion picture Black Panther in 2018, and in the 2019 Lion King: The Gift album by American pop icon Beyoncé. Although the origins of Gqom, its characteristics, impact, and ascension to noteworthiness have received attention in the form of newspaper articles, online blogs, YouTube documentaries, etc, and small treatises or academic articles, little literature has been generated about the music and its theoretical construction as sonic and social phenomena. I argue that by using the theoretical scaffolds of ‘identity politics’, specifically ‘identities in music’, one is better able to understand Gqom as reflective of a broader social urban youth identity characterised by partying and political disillusionment. In other words, I make the case for an intergroup identification that prioritises in-group musical identities associated with Gqom and its phenomenology of practices which I have excavated using an ethnographic qualitative method. , Thesis (MMus) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Visual and performing Arts, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Implementation framework for microgrids as an energy solution to uplift rural communities in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Sibulelokuhle Xulaba
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Renewable energy sources -- Eastern Cape , Microgrids (Smart power grids) -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60071 , vital:62916
- Description: People in remote areas of most developing countries still face economic and environmental challenges despite our more accessible world of technology. Access to reliable and sustainable electricity is the most challenging developmental issue faced by rural communities in South Africa, as grid expansion has dwindled due to business challenges experiences by the state power producer, Eskom. Unless businesses and homeowners in unconnected areas use generators, which are costly to run and environmentally unfriendly, most will continue to remain without electricity for the foreseeable future. The purpose of this study therefore is to provide a model for the successful implementation of renewable energy microgrids to overcome poverty and promote economic development in rural areas of the Eastern Cape. The data for the study was collected from three district municipalities in the rural areas of the Eastern Cape. The province is divided into homeland and farms, with the farms that were sampled for the study situated on State-owned land. The sample group comprised small businesses operating in these rural areas. The study used a mixed-method research design, the methodology being found to be the most suitable for the study. The study uses a questionnaire-variant convergent design that consisted of a mixture of open-ended and close-ended questions. The sample group was situated in areas with limited electricity or internet access, therefore face-toface structured interviews were conducted. Meta-inference was used for data interpretation, and a combination of quantitative and qualitative data analysis methods was used to analyse the data. For the open-ended questions, thematic analysis was used, whilst descriptive statistics were used for the closed-ended questions. The study found that most businesses operating in rural areas do not have access to electricity. Those businesses which do not have electricity must make use of diesel-powered generators to continue to trade, which makes their businesses unprofitable. They spend a large proportion of their earnings purchasing fuel to achieve the desire thermal comfort for their stock, or to pump water via boreholes or piped dam structures. The study showed that implementing a renewable energy microgrids provides a viable option, supporting the literature reviewed. This will promote economic development in these areas of the Eastern Cape. Developing and enhancing the standard of living can assist in reducing the number of people migrating to urban areas whilst providing an opportunity to increase farm yields, grow rural business and change the lives of the poor for the better. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Sibulelokuhle Xulaba
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Renewable energy sources -- Eastern Cape , Microgrids (Smart power grids) -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60071 , vital:62916
- Description: People in remote areas of most developing countries still face economic and environmental challenges despite our more accessible world of technology. Access to reliable and sustainable electricity is the most challenging developmental issue faced by rural communities in South Africa, as grid expansion has dwindled due to business challenges experiences by the state power producer, Eskom. Unless businesses and homeowners in unconnected areas use generators, which are costly to run and environmentally unfriendly, most will continue to remain without electricity for the foreseeable future. The purpose of this study therefore is to provide a model for the successful implementation of renewable energy microgrids to overcome poverty and promote economic development in rural areas of the Eastern Cape. The data for the study was collected from three district municipalities in the rural areas of the Eastern Cape. The province is divided into homeland and farms, with the farms that were sampled for the study situated on State-owned land. The sample group comprised small businesses operating in these rural areas. The study used a mixed-method research design, the methodology being found to be the most suitable for the study. The study uses a questionnaire-variant convergent design that consisted of a mixture of open-ended and close-ended questions. The sample group was situated in areas with limited electricity or internet access, therefore face-toface structured interviews were conducted. Meta-inference was used for data interpretation, and a combination of quantitative and qualitative data analysis methods was used to analyse the data. For the open-ended questions, thematic analysis was used, whilst descriptive statistics were used for the closed-ended questions. The study found that most businesses operating in rural areas do not have access to electricity. Those businesses which do not have electricity must make use of diesel-powered generators to continue to trade, which makes their businesses unprofitable. They spend a large proportion of their earnings purchasing fuel to achieve the desire thermal comfort for their stock, or to pump water via boreholes or piped dam structures. The study showed that implementing a renewable energy microgrids provides a viable option, supporting the literature reviewed. This will promote economic development in these areas of the Eastern Cape. Developing and enhancing the standard of living can assist in reducing the number of people migrating to urban areas whilst providing an opportunity to increase farm yields, grow rural business and change the lives of the poor for the better. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Improving governance and service delivery in Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality: a quest for a clean audit opinion
- Ntsundwana, Kanyisa Zime Dadewabobonke
- Authors: Ntsundwana, Kanyisa Zime Dadewabobonke
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Service delivery -- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality -- Port Elizabeth , Municipal finance--Auditing--Law and legislation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59644 , vital:62297
- Description: The purpose of the study was to investigate how Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (NMBMM) can improve its governance and service delivery to obtain a clean audit outcome. In addition, the study explored the role of auditing in the functioning and performance of municipalities. NMBMM public officials and political office-bearers are expected in terms of Chapter 7 of the Constitution of South Africa Act 108 of 1996 to promote the general welfare of the community by meeting its needs, expectations and demands. The qualitative (non-empirical) research methodology followed in the study was based on a desktop approach. The annual documents reviewed to answer the research objectives were the Consolidated General Reports on the Local Government Audit Outcome and the Reports of the Auditor-General to the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature and the council on the NMBMM and its municipal entity for the financial period 2015/2016 to 2019/2020. The problem was that the NMBMM did not obtain a clean audit opinion during this period. The study findings indicated that the main contributing factors that prevented the NMBMM from improving governance, service delivery and obtaining a clean audit outcome were as follows: poor management of accounting practices (financial management); inadequate financial statements and performance reports; a lack of adherence to predetermined objectives and legislation; and unauthorised, fruitless, wasteful and irregular expenditure. To attain a clean audit outcome, NMBMM municipal officials and political officebearers need to perform their mandated duties diligently and overcome the challenges that have barred them from obtaining an unqualified audit opinion. Such an endeavour would be consistent with the Operation Clean Audit (OPCA) campaign, which was introduced by the former Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Sicelo Shiceka, in 2009. In other words, the NMBMM must improve its governance and service delivery because a municipality without good governance lacks accountability, which has a direct negative impact on the delivery of services to its communities. Hence, it is recommended inter alia that the NMBMM seeks advice from iii the Auditor-General on strategies to improve its audit outcomes, maintains infrastructure, addresses criminal activities and improves its internal controls. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Ntsundwana, Kanyisa Zime Dadewabobonke
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Service delivery -- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality -- Port Elizabeth , Municipal finance--Auditing--Law and legislation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59644 , vital:62297
- Description: The purpose of the study was to investigate how Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (NMBMM) can improve its governance and service delivery to obtain a clean audit outcome. In addition, the study explored the role of auditing in the functioning and performance of municipalities. NMBMM public officials and political office-bearers are expected in terms of Chapter 7 of the Constitution of South Africa Act 108 of 1996 to promote the general welfare of the community by meeting its needs, expectations and demands. The qualitative (non-empirical) research methodology followed in the study was based on a desktop approach. The annual documents reviewed to answer the research objectives were the Consolidated General Reports on the Local Government Audit Outcome and the Reports of the Auditor-General to the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature and the council on the NMBMM and its municipal entity for the financial period 2015/2016 to 2019/2020. The problem was that the NMBMM did not obtain a clean audit opinion during this period. The study findings indicated that the main contributing factors that prevented the NMBMM from improving governance, service delivery and obtaining a clean audit outcome were as follows: poor management of accounting practices (financial management); inadequate financial statements and performance reports; a lack of adherence to predetermined objectives and legislation; and unauthorised, fruitless, wasteful and irregular expenditure. To attain a clean audit outcome, NMBMM municipal officials and political officebearers need to perform their mandated duties diligently and overcome the challenges that have barred them from obtaining an unqualified audit opinion. Such an endeavour would be consistent with the Operation Clean Audit (OPCA) campaign, which was introduced by the former Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Sicelo Shiceka, in 2009. In other words, the NMBMM must improve its governance and service delivery because a municipality without good governance lacks accountability, which has a direct negative impact on the delivery of services to its communities. Hence, it is recommended inter alia that the NMBMM seeks advice from iii the Auditor-General on strategies to improve its audit outcomes, maintains infrastructure, addresses criminal activities and improves its internal controls. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
In vitro evaluation of vernonia amygdalina gold nanoparticles to stimulate apoptosis in breast cancer lines
- Authors: Pali, Zenande
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Breast--Cancer--Treatment--Technological innovations , Apoptosis -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59933 , vital:62696
- Description: Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer in women and triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is one of the most aggressive breast cancer subtypes. Current breast cancer therapies are associated with several side effects and less effective treatment. Therefore, the development of new approaches to improve cancer treatment are needed. The use of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) for anti-cancer effects is one of the most promising research areas in the field of nanotechnology, because nanoparticles are readily functionalized and can passively accumulate at the tumor site without affecting healthy tissues. The green synthesis of AuNPs is an eco-friendly, costeffective, fast, and non-toxic method that is associated with fewer side effects.The aim of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxicity and apoptotic activity exhibted by Vernonia amygdalina gold nanoparticles (VA-AuNPs) in triple negative breast cancer cell lines. The aqueous extract of Vernonia amygdalina was used to reduce gold salts to form VA-AuNPs. The VA-AuNPs were synthesised at a temperature of 100 °C and pH 7. The synthesised green AuNPs were charactised using ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, and high resolution transmission electron microscopy. Spherical VA-AuNPs were succesfully synthesized with average size of 17.11 ± 2.82 nm and a zeta potential of -36.55 ± 1.15 mV. The MTT assay revealed that VA-AuNPs significantly reduced (p cell viability for both mouse (E0771) and human (MDA-MB231) TNBC cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. The PrestoBlue assay showed a consistent decrease in cell numbers over time, suggesting either a decrease in proliferation or increase in apoptosis. The apoptotic effects of VAAuNPs were assessed using the CaspGLOW Fluorescein active caspase-8 staining kit. It indicated that caspase 8 was activated when cells were treated with VA-AuNPs. E0771 and MDA-MB231 cells were compared when treated with VA-AuNP and a similar trend was established. The HRTEM image showed VA-AuNPs in an vesiclelike structure inside the cell. It can be concluded that the VA-AuNPs showed anticancer activities against TNBC cells. Caspase 8 is activated by VA-AuNPs, confirming the induction of apoptosis, but does not exclude the activation of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway or inhibition of proliferation activity. E0771 and MDA-MB231 cells showed similar cytotoxic activity and thus expected that the mechanism of action in these cell lines should also be similar. Future in vivo research, using the mouse model inoculated with E0771 TNBC cells, should be justified and comparable with human TNBC cells. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Pali, Zenande
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Breast--Cancer--Treatment--Technological innovations , Apoptosis -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59933 , vital:62696
- Description: Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer in women and triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is one of the most aggressive breast cancer subtypes. Current breast cancer therapies are associated with several side effects and less effective treatment. Therefore, the development of new approaches to improve cancer treatment are needed. The use of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) for anti-cancer effects is one of the most promising research areas in the field of nanotechnology, because nanoparticles are readily functionalized and can passively accumulate at the tumor site without affecting healthy tissues. The green synthesis of AuNPs is an eco-friendly, costeffective, fast, and non-toxic method that is associated with fewer side effects.The aim of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxicity and apoptotic activity exhibted by Vernonia amygdalina gold nanoparticles (VA-AuNPs) in triple negative breast cancer cell lines. The aqueous extract of Vernonia amygdalina was used to reduce gold salts to form VA-AuNPs. The VA-AuNPs were synthesised at a temperature of 100 °C and pH 7. The synthesised green AuNPs were charactised using ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, and high resolution transmission electron microscopy. Spherical VA-AuNPs were succesfully synthesized with average size of 17.11 ± 2.82 nm and a zeta potential of -36.55 ± 1.15 mV. The MTT assay revealed that VA-AuNPs significantly reduced (p cell viability for both mouse (E0771) and human (MDA-MB231) TNBC cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. The PrestoBlue assay showed a consistent decrease in cell numbers over time, suggesting either a decrease in proliferation or increase in apoptosis. The apoptotic effects of VAAuNPs were assessed using the CaspGLOW Fluorescein active caspase-8 staining kit. It indicated that caspase 8 was activated when cells were treated with VA-AuNPs. E0771 and MDA-MB231 cells were compared when treated with VA-AuNP and a similar trend was established. The HRTEM image showed VA-AuNPs in an vesiclelike structure inside the cell. It can be concluded that the VA-AuNPs showed anticancer activities against TNBC cells. Caspase 8 is activated by VA-AuNPs, confirming the induction of apoptosis, but does not exclude the activation of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway or inhibition of proliferation activity. E0771 and MDA-MB231 cells showed similar cytotoxic activity and thus expected that the mechanism of action in these cell lines should also be similar. Future in vivo research, using the mouse model inoculated with E0771 TNBC cells, should be justified and comparable with human TNBC cells. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Infant feeding practices of mothers with infants under six months of age in the Nelson Mandela Bay Community Health Centres within Sub-district C
- Authors: Moss, Caryn Ruth
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Breastfeeding , Breastfeeding -- Complications
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60177 , vital:63212
- Description: Background: Infant feeding practices refers to the type of feeding methods that are used to provide nutrition to the infant. This includes breastfeeding, donor milk, formula milk, and complementary feeds. Globally, breastfeeding is the recommended infant feeding practice for infants under six months of age with the introduction of complementary feeds after six months of age (WHO, 2018a). The purpose of the study was to explore and describe the infant feeding practices of mothers with infants under six months of age in Nelson Mandela Bay. The researcher explored and described the different infant feeding practices of mothers with infants under six months of age. Method: A quantitative, descriptive study design was conducted and included 150 respondents, 18 years old and above, with infants under six months of age. Convenience sampling was used, and the respondents were from five Nelson Mandela Bay Community Health Centres (CHCs) in Sub-district C. Data were collected using a fieldworker employing a mask-to-mask approach to adhere to COVID-19 principles and a questionnaire with open-ended and closed-ended questions. Data were analysed using the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS®) software with the use of descriptive statistical analysis. Results: The results revealed that 63% (n=94) of the respondents had breastfed their infant while 37% (n=56) had never breastfed their infant. Most of the respondents, 85% (n=128) recorded that they received advice after birth. Of the respondents, 37% (n=56), gave their infant formula milk instead of breastfeeding. In addition, 33% (n=29) of the infants were given soft foods at two months old as well as 32% (n=32.3) were given liquids at the same age. Conclusion: The study findings revealed that most mothers with infants under six months of age in the Nelson Mandela Bay CHCs Sub-district C introduced complementary feeds before their infants turned six months old. The results also revealed that respondents introduced complementary feeds because the infant was still hungry. Family members, friends, and healthcare practitioners play an important role when a mother chooses a feeding practice for her infant. Recommendations are made to mothers to provide age-appropriate feeding practices. Furthermore, viii recommendations are made to nurse educators to include training regarding up-to-date infant feeding practices to undergraduate nursing students. Lastly, it is recommended that research comparing infant feeding practices in the three Sub-districts in Nelson Mandela Bay be conducted. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Moss, Caryn Ruth
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Breastfeeding , Breastfeeding -- Complications
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60177 , vital:63212
- Description: Background: Infant feeding practices refers to the type of feeding methods that are used to provide nutrition to the infant. This includes breastfeeding, donor milk, formula milk, and complementary feeds. Globally, breastfeeding is the recommended infant feeding practice for infants under six months of age with the introduction of complementary feeds after six months of age (WHO, 2018a). The purpose of the study was to explore and describe the infant feeding practices of mothers with infants under six months of age in Nelson Mandela Bay. The researcher explored and described the different infant feeding practices of mothers with infants under six months of age. Method: A quantitative, descriptive study design was conducted and included 150 respondents, 18 years old and above, with infants under six months of age. Convenience sampling was used, and the respondents were from five Nelson Mandela Bay Community Health Centres (CHCs) in Sub-district C. Data were collected using a fieldworker employing a mask-to-mask approach to adhere to COVID-19 principles and a questionnaire with open-ended and closed-ended questions. Data were analysed using the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS®) software with the use of descriptive statistical analysis. Results: The results revealed that 63% (n=94) of the respondents had breastfed their infant while 37% (n=56) had never breastfed their infant. Most of the respondents, 85% (n=128) recorded that they received advice after birth. Of the respondents, 37% (n=56), gave their infant formula milk instead of breastfeeding. In addition, 33% (n=29) of the infants were given soft foods at two months old as well as 32% (n=32.3) were given liquids at the same age. Conclusion: The study findings revealed that most mothers with infants under six months of age in the Nelson Mandela Bay CHCs Sub-district C introduced complementary feeds before their infants turned six months old. The results also revealed that respondents introduced complementary feeds because the infant was still hungry. Family members, friends, and healthcare practitioners play an important role when a mother chooses a feeding practice for her infant. Recommendations are made to mothers to provide age-appropriate feeding practices. Furthermore, viii recommendations are made to nurse educators to include training regarding up-to-date infant feeding practices to undergraduate nursing students. Lastly, it is recommended that research comparing infant feeding practices in the three Sub-districts in Nelson Mandela Bay be conducted. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12