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Biophysical Characterization of the Interaction between the Universal Stress G4LZI3 protein and Schistosoma mansoni Hsp60 Substrate Binding Domain
No full textA dissertation submitted in fulfillment of the academic requirements for the degree of Master of Science in the Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology in the Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering, University of Zululand, 2020.Bioinformatics is the integration of mathematical, computer, biological and statistical
sciences to successfully analyse and interpret biological data. It can be used in the
identification of molecule inhibitors as well as in identifying potential antigenic peptides that
can be used in drug design (Blundell et al., 2006; Xia, 2017). Generally, the main goal of
bioinformatics is to discover hidden information about certain organism or proteins that
would not have been known though in vitro studies alone, this information brings critical
improvements in health, agricultural sector and biotechnology amongst others (Katara, 2013).
In silico studies were employed in this study using various online tools in an attempt to
acquire, group, analyse and compare data. The most important aspect of this work is based on
understanding the interaction between the S.mansoni G4LZI3 protein and the S.mansoni
Hsp60, this requires understanding the structure of the two proteins and their preferred
orientation upon interaction. Employment of various bioinformatics tools in this study helped
in bringing insight on the structure of both proteins, their binding sites and affinities as well
as in the discovery of a potential inhibitor, Epolactaene with a potential of breaking the
interaction between the two proteins. Molecular dynamic simulations were implemented in
the present study chosen based on their robustness and effectiveness in interpreting binding
conformational changes between the protein and its ligand. MD simulations analysis done in
the study include RMSD, RMSF, RoG, SASA and Hydrogen bonding. Additionally, a
sufficient amount (11.634 mg/ml) of recombinant G4LZI3 protein was successfully
expressed and purified to homogeneity. SmHsp60 was also successfully expressed in the
present study. Results obtained from this work form a basis for further studies directed
towards the design and development of drugs against schistosomiasis
The utilisation of indigenous foods in enhancing household food security in the rural area of eMaphephetheni, KwaZulu-Natal
No full textA dissertation submitted in fulfilment of the requirement for the Degree of Master of Arts in the Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Arts, at the University of Zululand, 2020.Food insecurity is predominant in rural communities. In South Africa rural households experience food and nutritional insecurity. The potential of eradicating food Insecurity through indigenous foods is enormous. The study focuses on how indigenous foods could be used to improve household food security. This study was mainly qualitative, where semi-structured and focus group discussions were used to collect data. Therefore, this study was framed under Afrocentrism theory for a theoretical explanation that African issues must be addressed from an Afrocentric rather than Eurocentric perspective. Hence, Afrocentricity befits a fundamental theoretical perspective in the study of indigenous foods. If people can reconnect with their cultural identities, the acceptance of indigenous foods could improve. Cultural continuity is related to their ability to eat indigenous foods and continue their traditional practices. It was discovered that indigenous foods were predominant source of food for the rural communities, especially to the elderly people who appreciated these foods. However, change of lifestyle was highlighted as a reason why people do not consume indigenous food more often. Limited availability and accessibility of indigenous foods was also reported. The study indicated challenges that farmers face, while community members shed light on issues such as infertile soil, lack of water, and animal trespassing. It is recommended that the idea of the value of indigenous foods needs to be reintroduced and promoted amongst the South African population. The young generation should be educated about indigenous foods. Rural households should be provided with farming inputs which could improve their agricultural productivity as most households depend on farming for extra income to sustain their families. Also, there should be promotional education via media platforms to create awareness on the importance and health benefits of consuming indigenous foods. Households should be encouraged and educated about nutritious eating throughout life.Moses Kotane Institut
Teachers’ experiences of the integration of values education in the FET phase curriculum a case of King Cetshwayo District high schools
No full textA thesis submitted in fulfillment of the academic requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in the Department of Curriculum and Instructional Studies, Faculty of Education at the University of Zululand, 2020.This study explored teachers’ experiences of the integration of values education in the FET phase curriculum in King Cetshwayo District. The main concern of the study was that the youth of today, especially in schools, are morally bankrupt. They can hardly differentiate between what is right or wrong, and what is just and unjust. In other words, they are valueless. The main aim of the study was to explore teachers’ experiences in the integration of values education in the FET phase curriculum with a view to promoting the inclusion of moral values in the implementation of the curriculum. Thus, this study intended to explore teachers’ experiences of the integration of values education in the FET phase, ascertain how they integrate values education in the teaching and learning process, and lastly, determine the challenges that teachers encounter when teaching values education.
A qualitative approach was employed, and a case study design was adopted. Data about teachers’ experiences in the integration of values education in the FET phase curriculum were explored through the use of semi-structured focus group interviews and classroom observations. The researcher used thematic analysis of data which involved analysing transcripts, identifying significant themes and putting them together in accordance with their characteristics. A sample of 25 FET teachers from five different schools in the district was purposively selected.
Findings revealed that teachers are not well versed with the concept of values education. Thus, it is therefore not feasible for them to effectively and intentionally impart values education to learners. Findings also indicated that learners are not deliberately and positively influenced by their teachers through the teaching and learning activities to change and modify their behaviour to become responsible and acceptable members of the society. Findings pertaining to the classroom environment also revealed that teachers were not aware that both the physical environment and the classroom atmosphere can either promote or hinder the inculcation of values to learners, and consequently benefit the learners, or generate disorder and indiscipline in the classroom.
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One of the recommendations in this study were that existing policies on teaching and learning values in schools ought to be reviewed by curriculum specialists, focusing on appropriate measures that can promote effective integration of values education across and within all subjects. The Department of Basic Education should provide regular and adequate in-service training for teachers on pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) on values education for effective integration in the curriculum. Teachers should be vigorously involved in the design and development of the curriculum for values education.
Their involvement would assist in the inclusion of practicable values education that can be integrated into their classroom practice. It is also recommended that teachers and parents should ensure that the value of Ubuntu (humanness), which is enshrined in the South African Manifesto on Values, is deliberately infused into all school activities. In other words, Ubuntu should be interwoven in the school system for moral regeneration, and for the reconstruction of the moral fiber in the light of moral degeneration in schools
Effect of classroom environment on learning of four-year old preschool children in Sibasa circuit, Vhembe district
No full textA thesis submitted in fulfillment of the academic requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in the Department of Foundations of Education in the Faculty of Education, University of Zululand, 2020.Globally, every country is striving to put early learning at the apex of its priorities, hence, governments make many provisions to ensure early learning is accessible. The National Integrated Early Childhood Development Policy of South Africa has been put in place to ensure learners have access to quality education, without discrimination, for example, the 0-4 year olds. For preschool children to develop holistically, they need a well-designed classroom learning environment that supports the learning and development of four-year old preschool children. This study aimed to explore the effect of classroom environment on the learning of four-year old preschool children. The study employed the pragmatic paradigm, where both qualitative and quantitative methods were used, and data was collected through interviews and questionnaires. The results show that a well-designed classroom environment promotes learning and the children’s long-term development. Factors, such as - lack of learning materials, funds, lack of qualified teachers - have a negative effect on the learning of preschool children. The results further reveal that for a classroom environment to support the learning and development of the four-year old preschool children, qualified teachers, availability of classrooms, appropriate learning, and teaching materials are of paramount importance. A model for effective classroom environment design was developed based on the research findings
Information support for students with disabilities in selected academic libraries in Malawi
No full textThesis submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in the Department of Library and Information Studies, Faculty of Arts at the University of Zululand, 2020.This study examined information support for students with disabilities in selected academic libraries in Malawi. It focused on the access to library facilities, resources and services for students with disabilities in the following institutions: University of Malawi (UNIMA) (Chancellor College and Polytechnic Libraries), Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST) and Mzuzu University (MZUNI). The specific objectives of the study were to examine the availability and accessibility of library and information services for students with disabilities in the selected academic libraries; the accessibility of library buildings to students with disabilities; implementation of policy and legislation; to establish challenges facing students with disabilities in accessing library and information resources in the selected academic libraries; and to propose a strategy for the provision of library services for students with disabilities.
The study adopted a qualitative multi-case study design guided by an interpretivist paradigm. The sample comprised students with disabilities, library staff and disability unit staff (where such units existed) from the selected institutions. The universities were specifically selected because they are all public institutions and they enrol students with disabilities, they have similar governance structures and are under an obligation to implement government policy and legislation.
A purposive sampling technique was employed to select library staff, while a census was employed for students. In total, 23 students with disabilities, 14 library staff, one head of a disability unit and one dean of students were interviewed. In addition, the Malawi Disability Act and the strategic plans of the selected institutions were reviewed. The selected libraries were also audited for accessibility using an inspection audit checklist that was informed by the IFLA checklist. Data was analysed using thematic analysis.
The study was guided by the social model of disability and Wilson’s model of information behaviour. The two models were important in identifying barriers to library and information access for students because of disability.
This study revealed that there was inadequate information support for students with disabilities in all the selected academic libraries. The libraries were providing services and resources which were not accessible to students with disabilities. None of the libraries provided information materials in alternative formats such as braille, audio and large print, nor was assistive technology available to
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enhance the accessibility of information. No readers were provided to read for visually impaired students. Library buildings and facilities were not accessible to students with disabilities, mainly those with mobility and visual impairments. In some libraries, this was due to turnstiles fitted at the entrances and stairs leading to upper floors of the libraries with no provision for a lift/elevator or ramps.
Furthermore, the libraries did not take into account the needs of students with disabilities in designing library orientation and information literacy training programmes, which led to their exclusion from these programmes.
A lack of policy governing library services for students with disabilities exposed the students to marginalising practices and discriminatory library services. Even the existing national disability policy and legislation did not explicitly address library services for persons with disabilities. The study also revealed that the design of library websites did not favour users of assistive technologies because of the errors displayed by the WebAim library accessibility evaluation tool.
The study recommends the development of policy to address library services for students with disabilities in academic libraries. In addition, academic libraries should embark on less costly efforts towards addressing accessibility, such as assigning staff to assist students with disabilities, conducting awareness training for library staff and introducing telephony services. Furthermore, academic libraries should collaborate with other libraries and agencies that promote and provide reading materials for persons with disabilities, such as braille and audio materials. In the long term, academic libraries should procure assistive technologies for use by students. The study has proposed a strategy towards the provision of library services for students with disabilities
A data adaptive approach to the analysis of South African climate variability and its agricultural impacts
No full textA dissertation submitted in fulfillment of the academic requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in the Department of Mathematical Science in the Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering, University of Zululand, 2020.Climate variability, which is mostly physically identified through extreme rainfall and temperature, has a significant impact on the daily livelihoods of people and other species. The temperature has been increasing at an average of 0.65ºC per decade since 1900, and this may be attributed to natural and human factors. Climate variability has more adverse effects on Africa due to lack of resources, failure to adapt, and high dependence on the rain for agricultural purposes. Although Africa is the most affected continent, there are few studies on the climate variability impact on the continent. Therefore, there is a need to carry out more studies using historical data to model the climate variability impact. The climate has become more variable recently, as can be observed by the increase in the occurrence of floods and droughts. Due to this high volatility, linear statistical methods are inconclusive. Some of the non-linear methods, such as Fourier and wavelet transform-based methods make several assumptions. In this study, a data-adaptive method, ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD), is used to decompose the climate data into multiple time series called intrinsic mode functions (IMF). IMFs represents the variability of the time series at different time scales. EEMD is a noise assisted method and there is a challenge on the amplitude of noise to be added. Therefore, in this study, a method to find the optimal amplitude of the noise is proposed. To determine the physical meaning of the IMFs synchronisation is employed. Synchronisation is a method that can be used to find the correlations between oscillating systems. Rainfall is synchronised with temperature, El
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Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and Quasi-Biennial Oscillation (QBO) to investigate their variability impact on rainfall at different time scales.
It has been shown that models, coupled with decomposition, perform better than single models; hence, for the first time, the decomposed data (IMFs) are modelled using generalised extreme value distribution (GEVD). GEVD was found in previous studies to be the best suitable for many hydrological and meteorological problems. However, many studies assume stationarity of the data. In this study, the diagnostic plots (quantile-quantile plot, probability-probability plot and probability density plot) reveals that the IMFs GEVD model provided a better fit. The goodness-of-fit test using Kolmogorov-Smirnov (K-S) and Anderson-Darling (A-D) test shows that IMFs GEVD models are more robust, compared to the original rainfall time series GEVD model.
EEMD is used to investigate the climate variability impact on agriculture using grapevines and sugarcane as case studies. The IMFs from the Normalised DifferenceVegetativeIndex(NDVI)aresynchronisedtorainfallandtemperature. NDVI is used because it was found in previous studies to be positively correlated to the yield in many crops and has been used to gauge the expected yield for crops. The results show that an increase of temperature for the period under studydoesnothavenoticeableimpactongrapevines’NDVI.However, thisisnot the case with sugarcane where it is shown that temperature variability has an impactontheNDVIatseasonal,and26months(approximately2years)periods. ThisstudyisthefirsttousethedecompositionofNDVItoinvestigatetheclimate variability impact on plants. Furthermore, few statistical studies do not look at thegrowthphaseofcropsandplantationsbutuseyieldasabasisfortheanalysis of climate variability impact. The proposed model may be used for short and medium term planning to predict the future NDVI and expected yields.National research Fun
Political and administrative dichotomy in South Africa’s city of Tshwane metropolitan municipality: principle of separation of powers as solution
No full textA dissertation submitted in fulfillment of the academic requirements for the degree of Master of Commerce in the Department of Public Administration in the Faculty of Faculty of Commerce, Administration and Law, University of Zululand, 2020The study of political and administrative dichotomy in the discipline of public administration has always been about the differences that occur within the framework of government institutions. The differences between political and administrative structures in civil institutions then trigger the aspect of the principle of separation of powers which guide the functionality of these institutions. Consequently, this study focused on analyzing the principle of separation of powers in the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality, while navigating through the political and administrative dichotomy in South Africa.
Using administrative, bureaucratic and scientific management theories, this study aimed to help get an understanding of how political and administrative dichotomy affects the principle of separation of powers in the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality. This is because much literature on local government studies pointed that most of the challenges faced in municipalities revolve around the tension between political and administrative structures. To ascertain whether challenges occurring in municipalities are because of the effects of the political and administrative structures, this study focused on the analysis of the principle of separation of powers. To discover the answers needed, through the use of the qualitative approach, the researcher conducted interviews with both political and administrative officials in the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality.
The study, therefore, revealed the effects that surround the principle of separation of powers while taking into consideration the political and administrative dichotomy in South Africa. The findings of the study revealed that in most cases there is non-adherence to the principle of separation of powers between political and administrative spheres in the municipality. The findings further indicated that there is often tension between the two structures, and thus, respect over the functions of one’s structure become sidelined and not respected. In conclusion, the findings revealed that the principle of separation of powers when not fully adhered to, hampers the acceleration of a developmentally oriented local government which is meant to advance the lives of local communities
The effects of learner migration on academic performance at primary schools in the Lwamondo circuit
No full textA dissertation submitted in fulfilment of the requirement for the Degree of Master of Education in the Department of Foundations of Education, Faculty of Education, at the University of Zululand, 2019The rural schools have been losing learners to urban schools which placed them in danger of closing down. This study investigated the effect of learner migration in a rural school on learner academic performance at Lwamondo Circuit. This qualitative study collected data through interviews from teachers in five primary schools in the Lwamondo Circuit. The findings reveal that learners migrate due to lack of resources in schools, and the need to be taught English as a home language. Learner migration leads to multi-grade having a negative impact on learner performance. Learner migration leads to negative financial implications and results in the redeployment of teachers. To combat migration and enhance the academic performance of learners, the study recommends that stakeholders must be involved in the improvement of physical facilities in the rural schools, parents must be deeply involved in assisting their children and extra-mural activities must be introduced in those schools. The study concludes that if conditions are improved in rural schools, learners may not migrate to other schools
The gap between user perceptions and expectations of students at the main library of the University of KwaZulu-Natal: Pietermaritzburg Campus
Get PDFThe gap between user perceptions and expectations of students at the main library of the University of KwaZulu-Natal: Pietermaritzburg CampusBackground: An academic library is defined as the heart of a university, providing a venue for students, lecturers and researchers to advance their knowledge and conduct their research. These institutions should provide learning opportunities for all who choose to use them. The materials in the library are for anyone to use, which is why university libraries are important. This study investigated the gap between postgraduate students’ perception and expectations of the main academic library (Cecil Renaud) at the University of KwaZulu-Natal: Pietermaritzburg campus. Objectives: This study’s objective was to determine the gap between the existence of users’ expectations and perceptions of the quality service. Method: This study employed the quantitative research method, with a survey research design. The study population included postgraduate students in the School of Social Sciences, College of Humanities, at the University of KwaZulu-Natal: Pietermaritzburg campus. Results: The services that have a relatively big gap in agreement between expectations and perceptions are: computers that work well, adequate number of computer workstations and an efficient short loan service, and the library helping the user to stay abreast of developments in their field of interest. On the other hand, services that have a small gap are: a library environment that has sufficient lighting; and staff willing to help, who understand the library service need and who are sufficiently knowledgeable. Conclusion: The study found that there was a gap in almost all the services provided by the Cecil Renaud Main library. For example, with the comprehensive collection, there were not adequate print journals and books. In relation to access to information, the major gaps were re-shelving of journals, missing books and journals, and an inefficient short loan and interlibrary loan service
The health-economic growth nexus: a lower and middle-income Sub-Saharan economies comparison
No full textA dissertation submitted in fulfilment of the requirement for the Degree of Master of Commerce in the Department of Economics, Faculty of Commerce, Administration and Law, at the University of Zululand, 2020.The relationship between health and economic growth has been examined extensively during the past 30 years in developed and European countries. However, there are few studies that have investigated this relationship in Sub-Saharan Africa countries. The study investigated the relationship between health and economic growth by comparing low and middle-income Sub-Saharan Africa countries from 2000-2016. The study employed data from World Bank Indicators (WDI) in the World Bank database. This study is unique amongst existing studies in two respects. Firstly, it investigates the relationship between health and economic growth by comparing lower-income with middle-income Sub-Saharan Africa countries, since these countries have not received enough scholarly attention. Secondly, the study introduces Principal Component Analysis (PCA) with an aim to create a health index, since no such measure variable exists for health.
The study employed two Panel Vector Autoregressive models (PVAR) to investigate the relationship between health and economic growth. A Panel Vector Autoregressive model is an appropriate model for large panel data sets (Munyengwa, 2012). The results of the study support the Endogenous Growth Theory, which emphasises the crucial role that is played by health as a determinant or engine of economic growth through human capital effect. An improvement in health by 10% raises the economic growth rate by 2% in the short run. The study found a strong positive, statistically significant influence of health on economic growth in lower-income Sub-Saharan Africa countries. The study also found a positive, but statically insignificant impact of health on economic growth in middleincome Sub-Saharan Africa countries. These findings are very important to policymakers in the respective countries