UNAM Gā-aisib Repository (University of Namibia)
Not a member yet
3204 research outputs found
Sort by
A cadaveric and magnetic resonance imaging study of the anatomical variations of levator scapulae
No full textA thesis submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Science in Medical Sciences with Specialisation in AnatomyLevator scapulae muscle (LSM) is a deep muscle found in the posterior triangle of the
neck. It is reported to be a lead cause of neck and shoulder pain and discomfort in patients.
The muscle anatomically presents with an average of four muscle slips, originating from
the transverse processes of the first four cervical vertebrae (C1-C4) and inserts onto the
superomedial border of the scapula. The main function of the levator scapulae muscle is
to elevate the scapula.
This study aimed to determine the morphometric variation in levator scapulae muscle and
its related neurovasculature via cadaveric and MRI studies. There were 20 available
cadavers, and their posterior and anterior neck triangles were dissected to expose the
levator scapulae and its neurovasculature. The MRI study used randomly selected axial
scans (n = 167) to identify accessory attachments of the levator scapulae muscle.
The study observed the levator scapulae muscle with two to six muscle slips, with four
muscle slips dominating. The average proximal distance was 53.46 ± 13.22 mm, distal
distance was 60.63 ± 10.78 mm, anterior distance was 87.10 ± 9.27 mm and posterior
distance was 158.08 ± 15.94 mm. The cadaveric study observed the accessory muscle slip
attachments to the middle scalene, the first two ribs. The MRI study observed accessory
attachments to the serratus posterior superior, serratus anterior, trapezius, rhomboid
minor, and splenius cervicis. The levator scapulae muscle was supplied by the dorsal
scapular, transverse cervical ascending cervical arteries, and innervated by up to six nerve
branches, stemming from C2, C3/C4, and C5 nerve roots.
Clinically, the current study is important to medical students, anatomists, radiologists, and
physicians, as it confirmed the available data and provided additional knowledge about
the levator scapulae muscle and its related neurovasculature, hence voiding
misinterpretation of possible muscle anatomy, inaccurate diagnoses and prevent injuries
to neurovasculature during surgical procedures. Further research on the levator scapulae
muscle is crucial to provide adequate information regarding the levator scapulae muscle
variation
Enhancing solar photovoltaic efficiency with porous silica coatings
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Science in Renewable EnergySolar surface glass is known to exhibit reflectance loss of no less than 4%, depending
on the angle of the incident light. Furthermore, the high operating temperature of the
solar photovoltaic (PV) module also reduces the solar PV module efficiency by
approximately 0.45 − 0.50 %/℃ depending on the temperature coefficient and the
type of the solar modules[1]. The study investigated porous silica which is known to
have high transmittance in the solar spectrum range (0.3-1.1μm) and high emissivity
in the mid-infrared range (8-13μm) due to its bonding structure. The research
employed the base/acid double catalysis technique of the sol-gel method, using
Pluronic F127 as a surfactant, Tetraethylorthoxysilicate (TEOS), ethanol, hydrochloric
acid, ammonium hydroxide, hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS) and distilled water to
synthesise silicon dioxide sol. The sol was afterwards spin-coated on a glass substrate,
resulting in a porous silica layer approximately 200 nm thick. Scanning Electron
Microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR),
and Ultraviolet-Visible-Near Infrared Spectroscopy (UV-Vis-NIR) spectrophotometer
were employed to investigate the optical characteristics of the coatings. The study
achieved an approximate 2% increase in transmittance within the solar spectrum (0.3-
1.1μm) with a single porous silica layer with 8% emissivity in the mid-infrared range
(8-13μm). In addition, it observed a nearly 20% enhancement in emissivity with three
layers in the mid-infrared range (8-13μm), while transmittance in the solar spectrum
(0.3-1.1μm) decreased almost linearly by 8% from 0.3-0.55μm with three layer
Investigation of the determinants of examination malpractice intentions of pre-service deaf teachers using the hierarchical multiple regression analysis
No full textThis study examined the determinant factors of examination malpractice intentions (EMI) among pre-service deaf students in a Nigerian teacher training college. Four (4) research questions were raised and answered in the study. Data were collected from265 pre-service deaf teachers using a closed-ended questionnaire. Data generated were analysed using descriptive statistics, bivariate correlation, hierarchical multiple regression analysis, and the independent t-test at a 0.05 level of significance. Theresults obtained revealed a significant inverse relationship between the academic level of pre-service teachers and EMI among the study participants. Peer pressure was found to have the highest predictive capacity of influencing EMI, followed by academic level and study habits, respectively. There was also a moderating interaction between achievement motivation, test anxiety, and EMI among the participants. A significant difference only exists in the EMI among the participants based on gender parity and not the onset of deafness. Based on the findings, the study recommends that relevant stakeholders in deaf education and deaf studies work towards the building of self-confidence required for academic excellence. More so, deaf students should be guided and encouraged to carefully choose friends who can positively influence their academic decisions and action
The domestic military deployment of the Namibian Defence Force: 1990-2019
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for Degree of Masters of Arts Degree in Security and Strategic StudiesThe research focused on the analysis of the military domestic deployment in Namibia
from 1990-2019. The study harnessed insights from the national security approach to
ground the research. The study objectives were to investigate the nature of the deployment
of the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) in internal security operations in Namibia, to
assess the challenges of deployment of the military in internal security operations in
Namibia and to enhance the strategic efficacy of the NDF in their deployment in internal
security operations in Namibia. The researcher used a qualitative approach that was
exploratory by design. Moreover, thirty (30) participants were sampled for this study.
Data was analysed through the thematic approach method. Research findings show that
the nature of the deployment of the NDF in internal security operations in Namibia is
characterised by dealing with National Security Threats, Joint Crime Prevention
Operations and Response to National Disasters. Findings also showed that the challenges
of domestic deployment of the NDF for maintaining and preserving internal security
operations in Namibia include but are not limited to the lack of training, lack of proper
orientation, lack of equipment, lack of clear strategies and tactics as well as limited
budgets. Based on the findings, it is suggesting measures that emergency budgets,
provision of training and civil operations orientation and provision of equipment be
implemente
Determinants of home child birth practices among pregnant women in Oshikuku district, Omusati region, Namibia
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of master of public healthHome child birth is one of the leading causes of maternal and infant mortality and
morbidity worldwide but more especially in Africa. In Namibia, despite the Ministry of
Health and Social Services (MoHSS) effort to enhance Maternal and newborn health by
encouraging women to deliver at health facilities, there are still women who give birth at
home. The main objectives of this study were to determine if there is a statistically
significant association between women's socio-demographic data and gynecological
history (independent variable) and home child birth practice (dependent variable). A
quantitative, analytic cross-sectional study was conducted in the Oshikuku District,
particularly in the Oshikuku district hospital. The study was done in Oshikuku district
hospital because is the only hospital that has a maternity ward in the district. Maternal
records of 146 women seeking post-natal care at above mentioned health facility after
home child birth practice were reviewed using a structured Microsoft excel spreadsheet.
The study reveals that the most women who deliver give birth at home are 25 years and
younger. Women from rural areas give birth more at home 97% (n=141) compared to
those living in urban areas 3% (n=3), 87% (n=127) were Namibian and 13% (n=19)
were non-Namibian. Apart from that women with no formal education tend to deliver
more at home 59% (n=86) and also single women give birth more at home 85% (n=124).
77% (n=113) of unemployed women give birth at home. Women with less gravidity and
parity 1-3 tend to practice home child birth more than those with high gravidity and
parity. Women with no ante-natal visits at all or less than 3 ante-natal visits give birth at
home more 59% (n=86). The study also reveal that 64% (n=93) of babies born at home
were healthy (no complications recorded) however 23% (n=34) had minor
ii
complications, 7% (n=10) had major complications and 6% (n=9) died. 72% (n=105) of
women who give birth at home were healthy (no complication recorded after home child
birth), 20% (n=29) had minor complications, 4% (n=6) had moderate complications, and
another 4% (n=6) had major complications respectively.The study identified factors
associated with home child birth among women in Oshikuku district, Omusati region in
Namibia. The study result shows that younger women, unmarried with no formal
employment living in rural areas with low levels of education give birth at home.The
recommendations that arise from the study are to give more health education to women
on the importance of giving birth in the health facilities for safe delivery. Expanding
waiting areas next to health facilities in Omusati region so that more women will be
accommodated. This will help women to stay close to health facilities prior to labour.
Health extension workers to give health education on maternal health in the
communities. Further research is needed to understand the partner’s role they play in
choosing the place of child birt
An analysis of the challenges hampering the successful implementation of gender based violence policies: A case study of the Kavango East region of Namibia
No full textA Thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Business AdministrationThis study was aimed at analysing the challenges hampering the successful
implementation of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) policies in Namibia using the
Kavango East Region as the unit of analysis. The study employed a descriptive and case
study research design. A semi-structured questionnaire and an interview guide were used
as data collection instruments. Thirty-five (35) respondents were purposively and
conveniently selected from key stakeholders (regional councillors, traditional leaders,
and Church leaders, civil society, government ministries). The empirical data collected
from respondents was analysed qualitatively using thematic and content analysis to
complement documentary analysis of secondary data. The thematic presentation and
discussion of the results was guided by the study research questions. The findings of
study revealed that it was imperative to review the existing policies on GBV to
accommodate emerging issues if radical change in reducing GBV is expected. The
findings of the study further revealed that key stakeholders such as civil society
organisations, traditional leaders, church leaders and community members were not fully
engaged and involved in the design of appropriate measures that would ensure effective
and efficient implementation of policies aimed at reducing GBV. Given the gap between
GBV policy and practice, the study advanced key recommendations that hinge on,
capacity building for various key stakeholders, adopting technology in reporting of GBV
cases, developing strategies to enhance coordination, monitoring and evaluation of the
policy implementation, creation of effective engagement platforms for communities,
traditional and church leaders on GBV matters, and robust revision of the existing GBV
policies and Action Plan
Critical perspectives on coaching and leadership
No full textThis chapter explores critical viewpoints that go beyond traditional ideas of coaching and leadership, highlighting the need for a more in-depth analysis of power relations, cultural contexts, moral issues, and broader social ramifications. Cultural and social contexts are scrutinized, revealing the impact of diverse backgrounds on coaching and leadership practices. The chapter advocates for research and evidence-based practices, underlining the importance of informed decision-making in the dynamic field of coaching and leadership. Critical viewpoints also highlight how coaching, and leadership can act as catalysts for transformational change and tools for resistance against oppressive systems. To challenge conventional hierarchies and advance more equitable structures, alternative coaching and leadership models that place an emphasis on collaboration, inclusivity, and ethical responsibility are investigated. The chapter promotes rigorous assessment and ongoing research while highlighting the value of research and evidence-based coaching and leadership practice
Acetylcholinesterase inhibition and Cytotoxic activity of extracts and a novel compound isolated from flowers of the wild everlasting (Helichrysum Argyrosphaerum DC)
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Science in Industrial BiochemistryHelichrysum argyrosphaerum is a poisonous plant responsible for livestock losses in
southern Africa. Helichrysum species primarily affect the central nervous system when
ingested by livestock. However, previous attempts to identify the toxins produced by
these plants resulted in only tentative identification of some chemical constituents.
This study aimed to isolate and characterize compounds from the flowers of H.
argyrosphaerum and to determine the in vitro acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity
and cytotoxicity of the methanol (MeOH) and dichloromethane (DCM) flower extracts
and isolated compounds. Several flavonoid glycosides (tentatively identified as
apigenin-O-glycosides) as well as an unknown chlorogenic acid analogue were
isolated from the methanol extract of H. argyrosphaerum flowers using semi-
preparative high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The chemical
structures of three isolated compounds were elucidated as apigenin, chamaemeloside,
and a novel compound, 14-acetyl chamaemeloside, based on their high-resolution
mass spectrometry (HRMS) and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR)
data. Interestingly, both the MeOH and DCM H. argyrosphaerum flower extracts as
well as 14-acetyl chamaemeloside induced acetylcholinesterase activity. In the
cytotoxicity assay, neither the MeOH and DCM extracts nor 14-acetyl-
chamaemeloside exhibited toxicity against HeLa cells. This research marks the initial
report of acetylcholinesterase activity and cytotoxicity in both H. argyrosphaerum
MeOH and DCM flower extracts, as well as the isolated compound, 14-acetyl-
chamaemeloside, against HeLa cells. Consequently, these findings will contribute to
future toxicological studies and aid in developing preventative agents that can be used
in the treatment of animals poisoned by H. argyrosphaeru
Women empowerment through social enterprise
No full textThis chapter explores the dynamic intersection of women’s empowerment and social enterprise as a
powerful catalyst for positive societal transformation. As the world grapples with persistent gender
disparities, innovative approaches are essential to create opportunities for women to thrive eco nomically, socially, and personally. Social enterprises, with their unique blend of purpose-driven
missions and sustainable business models, emerge as a promising avenue to address these chal lenges. The chapter begins by delving into the theoretical framework of women’s empowerment. It
then transitions into a review of case studies and real-world examples; the chapter illustrates the
transformative impact of social enterprises on women’s lives. These enterprises not only provide
economic opportunities through skills development, employment, and entrepreneurship but also
contribute to the creation of supportive ecosystems that foster self-esteem, leadership, and com munity engagemen
Improving soil fertility through dual inoculation with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and Rhizobium on a eutric cambisol cultivated with forage legumes in a semi-arid region
No full textThe present study assessed the effect of AMF and Rhizobium
inoculation on soil chemical properties in field-grown forage legumes in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. It is hypothesized
that the application of AMF and Rhizobium inoculation will improve soil chemical characteristicsThe Sub-Saharan region of southern Africa is characterized by high temperatures, low rainfall,
and poor land-use management practices such as continuous cropping without replenishment of
soil nutrients. The combination of these factors has resulted in nutrient depletion and land
degradation. The current study aimed at investigating the effect of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi
(AMF) and Rhizobium bacteria inoculation on soil chemical properties in field-grown forage le gumes, namely, Mucuna pruriens (mucuna), Lablab purpureus (lablab) and Vigna unguiculata
(cowpea), in the semi-arid region of the Eastern Cape Province (South Africa). Forage legumes
were inoculated with the AMF species Paraglomus occulum and the Rhizobia bacteria species
Bradyrhizobium strain and grown for 120 days. Soil samples were collected in the following
sequence: prior to planting, before flowering and after harvesting the forage legumes in each of
the two seasons (2017/2018 and 2018/2019) and soil chemical properties were determined using
standard procedures. The results showed that the addition of dual inoculation over time greatly
improved soil chemical properties when compared to the control treatment. This was advocated
by the significant (P ≤ 0.05) increase in soil pH, soil organic carbon, soil organic matter, total
nitrogen, phosphorus, calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium, sulfur and iron in soils. The
concentration of cation exchange capacity was significantly (P ≤ 0.05) higher in cowpea treated
with Rhizobium as compared to other treatment combinations. The control treatment of mucuna
forage greatly improved the concentrations of manganese, boron, copper, molybdenum, and zinc
over other treatment combinations only before the flowering stage. However, the concentrations
of micronutrients were significantly higher on the treatment combination of lablab and single
inoculation of AMF after harvesting. Generally, dual inoculation with AMF and Rhizobia enhanced
soil properties when compared to a single inoculation or untreated contro