Commercial marrubiin, aqueous and organic extracts of Leonotis leonurus were tested in vitro for their anticoagulant and antiplatelet activities. The aqueous extract inhibited platelet aggregation by 69.5 percent (100 μg/mL), while the organic extract (100 μg/mL) and marrubiin (5 μg/mL) showed 92.5 percent and 91.6 percent inhibition, respectively, by inhibiting the binding of fibrinogen to glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor in a concentration dependent manner. The extracts significantly prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time compared to untreated plasma controls. Fibrin and D-Dimer formation were drastically decreased. The extracts and marrubiin concentration-dependently inhibited calcium mobilization induced by collagen and thrombin. The formation of thromboxane A2 was also significantly reduced by both the extracts and marrubiin. Protein secretion and platelet adhesion were significantly reduced by both the extracts and marrubiin. The organic extract and marrubiin showed a more pronounced effect than the aqueous extracts in all the in vitro assays. The ex-vivo animal model confirmed the results obtained in vitro. Similar to the in vitro studies, activated partial thromboplastin time clotting time was prolonged by marrubiin and the number of aggregated platelets were significantly reduced relative to aspirin. The findings reflect that marrubiin largely contributes to the organic extract's anticoagulant and antiplatelet effect in vitro. INS-1 cells were cultured under normo- and hyperglycaemic conditions. Marrubiin and the two Leonotis leonurus extracts were screened for anti-diabetic activity in vitro. The stimulatory index of INS-1 cells cultured under hyperglycaemic conditions was significantly increased by 60 percent and 61 percent (p<0.01; n=5) in cells exposed to the organic extract (10 μg/mL) and marrubiin (500 ng/mL), respectively, relative to the normoglycaemic conditions. The gene expression of insulin was significantly increased by 76.5 and 71 percent, and of glucose transporter-2 by 93 and 92.5 percent for marrubiin and the organic extract, respectively, under the same conditions stipulated above (p<0.01; n=4). The extract and marrubiin similarly showed an increase in respiratory rate under hyperglycaemic conditions. Marrubiin increased insulin secretion, HDL-cholesterol, while it decreased total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol and the atherogenic index in the in vivo rat model.

The worldwide AIDS epidemic is known to have had a profoundly negative social, economic and personal impact and has taken a heavy toll on existing health care systems, particularly in developing countries. South Africa is experiencing an HIV epidemic with enormous social and economic consequences. Lopinavir/ritonavir antiretroviral treatment has been accredited with having a significantly positive effect and is a key advance in controlling HIV morbidity and mortality. An indigenous South African medicinal plant, Sutherlandia frutescens, known for its anti-diabetic properties and immune-boosting effects, is used for treating HIV positive patients suffering from opportunistic infections. Despite the use of the medicinal plant extract as homeotherapeutic medication, there is little evidence of toxicity testing that identifies its potential for interaction with antiretroviral drugs. However, scientific data relating to the mechanism through which Sutherlandia frutescens acts on the immune system has not been comprehensively documented. The aim of this study was to investigate lopinavir/ritonavir induced metabolic abnormalities in rats and whether the introduction of a plant extract of Sutherlandia frutescens would counteract the side effects of ARV medication. The results indicated that the rodents did not become insulin resistant, however, biochemical analysis indicated that extended ARV drug treatment would have caused insulin resistance. Significant morphological changes were found in the livers, kidneys and pancreases of rats exposed to the lopinavir/ritonavir. Rats exposed to the Sutherlandia frutescens plant extract showed improved histopathology with minimal abnormalities.

Thesis (MPH.) -- University of Limpopo, 2017. / The present study presents data about the prevalence and determinants of sputum smear non-conversion in smear positive tuberculosis patients. Despite the intervention by the Sekhukhune District Department of Health through continual training and workshops of professional nurses in respect of the NTCP, there are still more challenges observed in terms of TB management. Aim: To investigate the prevalence and determinants of sputum smear non-conversion in smear positive PTB patients after intensive phase of treatment. Method: Quantitative, descriptive retrospective study of TB records was conducted. Data collection was done by extracting data from ETR.net and exporting it to excel. Data cleaning was done before analysis. Data analysis was done using the computer Statistical Package Software for Social research (SPSS) volume 23.1. Findings: 834 TB patients’ records were extracted from the ETR.net database. 34% of records were available at 2 – months; 57% of the patients were males; also, 81% of the patients were diagnosed/treated at PHC facilities; 52% of the patients were HIV positive; 69% percent of the patients who were smear positive grading p+++ failed to convert after two months. In the univariate logistic regression patients with age 20 – 29 were observed to be 4.9 times likely (O.R. = 4.97) to be sputum positive (P = 0.142).Sputum grade 3(p+++) at the time of diagnosis was found to be significantly associated (P = 0.031) with sputum non – conversion after intensive phase of treatment. Conclusion: Two month sputum smear non-conversion is associated with pre-treatment sputum smear grading.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of music and imagery versus imagery only interventions on inducing relaxation and reducing nausea and emesis in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment. Specifically, this study explored an adaptation of the Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music (BMGIM). Approximately 280 patients were interviewed, 43 began data collection procedures, and 20 of these individuals completed the study. Three dependent measures (heart rate, nausea, and emesis) were collected both before and after each of six intervention sessions. Experimental treatment conditions were guided imagery with music (MI) or without music (IO), alternated across the sessions. As part of the experimental treatment, participants were also encouraged to listen to music at home, i.e., to listen twice daily to CD recordings for relaxation. One recording contained a script for relaxation with music in the background, and the other contained only a script for relaxation. Moreover, after the fourth and sixth week of being in the study, the participants responded to a satisfaction survey on their perception on the benefits of MI and IO intervention. A follow-up telephone interview was conducted with each participant nine days after completion of the study. Regression analysis was used to examine factors relating to the frequency of nausea and emesis as well as heart rate. A Pearson correlation coefficient was used to examine the relationship between the extent to which patients utilized the CD for relaxation at home and the amount of improvement experienced. Descriptive analyses were employed to examine participants' responses to their perceptions of the benefits of imagery only and music with imagery interventions (i.e., to the Participant Satisfaction Survey). Results indicated a statistically significant decrease on post-heart rate for MI as well as for IO interventions. There were no statistically significant differences in heart rate, nausea, or emesis between the two experimental interventions. However, there was a significant decrease in the frequency of nausea and emesis over time, i.e., across the six-weeks of treatment. The Pearson correlation indicated no significant relationship between the times participants listened to the CD and the outcomes of nausea and emesis. Self-reports from the participants indicated that the guided imagery with music, both within the experimental intervention sessions as well as at home, seemed to be very beneficial in inducing relaxation for these particular cancer patients.

Thesis (MPH.) -- University of Limpopo, 2019 / Background: Tuberculosis still continues to be a global public health problem and leads to many deaths. In an effective TB control strategy, TB patients are allocated to community care workers who provide care to these patients in their homes. It is important to understand the experiences of community care workers in order to strengthen TB control in the country. Objective(s): The purpose of this study was to explore lived experiences of community care workers of supporting patients taking Tuberculosis treatment. Methods: The design of the study was phenomenological, exploratory, descriptive, and contextual. The study site was Hlogotlou area in Limpopo Province. The target population was all community care workers supporting patients on Tuberculosis treatment. Purposive sampling was used with a sample of 13 participants, which was determined by the saturation of data. Semi-structured interviews were conducted using an interview guide and all sessions were audio recorded. The data were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Results: The results highlighted certain challenges met by community care workers. Patients thought that community care workers are there to kill them with treatment, they had mood swings during treatment and this caused them to use vulgar words and become aggressive to their community care workers. Most community care workers did not have enough information about Tuberculosis. This made it difficult for them to support patients on tuberculosis treatment. Conclusions: A good relationship with patients enhances treatment compliance. The researcher recommends that intensive training about tuberculosis should be provided to community care workers.

Thesis (M. A. (Psychology)) -- University of Limpopo, 2020 / Though recent South African legislation and policy documents have called for closer collaboration between Western-trained and traditional health practitioners, there is little evidence to show that there is a formal collaboration between the two categories of health care providers. Located within the interpretivist paradigm, and using an exploratory descriptive design, the researcher sought to explore the perceptions of Western-trained health practitioners (WTHPs) in Sekhukhune District (Limpopo Province) towards collaboration between themselves and traditional health practitioners (THPs) in treating mental illness. Seventeen WTHPs (males = 07; females = 10) from three hospitals in Sekhukhune District were selected through purposive sampling and requested to take part in the study. The sample comprised of five clinical psychologists, five medical officers working in psychiatric units, and seven psychiatric nurses. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and analysed through thematic analysis. Specifically, Renata Tesch’s eight steps were used to analyse the data. The following psychological themes emerged from the study: (a) shared goals on collaboration; (b) a good effect on collaboration is anticipated; (c) managing interdependence between traditional and Western-trained practitioners; (d) proposed ideal structures of governance to govern the collaboration; (e) recommended legislations and policies on collaboration; (f) suggested factors that may foster collaboration; (g) proposed factors that hinder collaboration; and, (h) referral systems that exist in the health care. The findings suggest that some WTHPs are willing to collaborate with THPs, especially if proper guidelines for collaboration could be provided by the government. Some recommendations on an ideal structure of governance and legislation on collaboration were made by the WTHPs. The WTHPs highlighted factors that may hinder or facilitate closer collaboration between themselves and THPs in providing mental health services to communities.

研究背景：便秘被過往的研究確認為世界各地老年人的一個常見健康問題，尤其是居住在安老院的長者。香港一項人口普查亦指出便秘也是香港老年人的一個常見健康問題。便秘對長者的生理、心理和社會功能等各方面都產生不良影響。此外，醫療體制亦因處理便秘及其衍生的健康問題而面對沉重的負擔。目前所採用的常規方案是生活模式改變及使用軟便劑，但兩者均未能有效地紓緩便秘的徵狀。由於香港老齡人口持續增長，便秘將會是一個具有潛在持續性的老年健康問題，故尋找一個能有效地紓緩便秘徵狀的方案甚為迫切。耳穴療法是一項普及的中醫療法，亦屬於互補療法。過往在中國進行的研究顯示，耳穴療法能有效地治療便秘，惟此等療效尚未被確實。耳穴療法應是一個對處理便秘具有潛在療效的治療方案。現時，香港尚未有研究評價耳穴療法對處理便秘的療效。 / 研究目的：本研究旨在評價耳穴療法的互補療效，對安老院內的長者便秘徵狀及便秘相關的健康生活品質的干預效果。 / 研究方法：本研究是一個採取混合研究法的臨床研究。先進行化研究，評價耳穴療法對安老院內長者的便秘徵狀及便秘相關的健康生活品質的互補療效；接著進行質化研究，探討面談者對接受耳穴療法的經驗及感受。量化研究是一個隨機對照及雙盲的研究。安老院內的院友被取錄為參與者後，便隨機地獲分配一個研究組別。本研究共有三個研究組別，每名組員分別接受一個預定的干預措施，包括磁珠耳貼療法 (干預組)，王不留行籽耳貼療法 (對照A組) 及耳貼療法 (對照B組)，干預措施是在七個選定的耳穴上進行耳穴療法，共維持十天。研究指標包括便秘徵狀及便秘相關的健康生活品質。此等研究指標分別在干預前 (基線資料)、十天後 (干預措施結束) 和二十天後 (干預措施結束後十天) 進行資料蒐集。統計推斷方法是採用廣義估計方程模型檢驗組間和組內在便秘徵狀及便秘相關的健康生活品質之差異。質化研究的面談者必須是完成整個研究過程的干預組組員，並在量化檢驗的便秘徵狀指標中取得最高分及最低分的各四位組員。透過個別面談，探討面談者對接受耳穴療法以處理便秘的經驗及感受。 / 研究結果：本研究共有99名參與者。祇有90名參與者接受干預措施 (干預組=31；對照A組=28；對照B組=31)，其中的81名參與者完成整個療程 (干預組=29；對照A組=25；對照B組=27)。本研究結果顯示耳穴療法在十天 (p=0.016)及二十天 (p=0.016) 的研究時期內，便秘相關的健康生活品質中的滿意度在干預組及對照A組間有顯著的差異 (十天及二十天均是p=0.016)。然而，本研究證實磁珠耳貼療法能顯著地紓緩便秘徵狀 (十天：p=0.013；二十天：p<0.001)，提升與便秘相關的健康生活品質 (十天：p=0.005；二十天：p<0.001)，並於三個研究組別中取得最大的療效。此外，質化研究結果顯示，耳穴療法確是一項安全及具認受性的療法，適用於安老院內的院友，可作為處理便秘的治療方案。 / 研究結論：本研究是香港首個通過隨機對照的臨床研究，以評價耳穴療法對處理便秘的互補療效。研究結果顯示磁珠耳貼療法對安老院內的院友具有正向的臨床價值：磁珠耳貼療法能紓緩便秘徵狀及提升便秘相關的健康生活品質；安老院內的院友認為耳穴療法是一項安全及具認受性的療法；對住在安老院內年長的中國人而言，耳穴療法是一項與其文化相關的照護方式。本研究就處理安老院內院友的便秘問題為護理專業提供了有關耳穴療法的新知，並作為日後於護理實務及護理研究方面的參考和方向。 / Background: Constipation has been identified in previous studies as a worldwide health problem among elderly people, especially those living in residential care homes (RCHs). Similarly, constipation is also reported as a common health problem among elderly people in Hong Kong in a local population survey. Constipation adversely affects the biopsychosocial well-being of elderly people. In addition, heavy burden has been imposed on the health care system in dealing with constipation and its related health problems. Constipation is currently managed by laxatives and lifestyle modification. However, constipation is not effectively relieved by these two management strategies. In Hong Kong, the aging population is seen to have an increasing trend. Constipation will then be a potentially expanding health problem among elderly people. All these data indicate an urgent need for effective alternatives to manage this health problem. Auriculotherapy is one popular treatment modality in Chinese medicine, which is also a form of complementary therapy. Previous studies conducted in Mainland China reported promising results in managing constipation with auriculotherapy, although its effectiveness was not affirmed. Auriculotherapy appears to be a promising management strategy for constipation. Until now, no study has been conducted in Hong Kong to evaluate the effectiveness of auriculotherapy in managing constipation. / Aim: The current study aims to evaluate the complementary effects of auriculotherapy in relieving constipation symptoms and in promoting disease-specific health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among elderly RCH residents. / Methods: The present study is a clinical trial that adopts the mixed-method design. A randomized placebo-controlled trial was first conducted to evaluate the complementary effects of auriculotherapy in relieving symptoms of constipation and in promoting disease-specific HRQOL in elderly RCH residents. After the completion of the randomized placebo-controlled trial, the qualitative approach was conducted to explore the participants’ experience and perceptions on the use and complementary effects of auriculotherapy with magnetic pellets in managing constipation. The randomized placebo-controlled trial was a double-blind study. The participants were recruited from elderly RCH residents and then randomly assigned to one of the three study groups. The participants received the assigned intervention, namely, auriculotherapy using auricular plaster with magnetic pellet (experimental group), auriculotherapy using auricular plaster with Semen Vaccariae (placebo-controlled group A), or auriculotherapy using only auricular plaster (placebo-controlled group B). Auriculotherapy was applied onto seven selected auricular acupoints for 10 days. Two outcome variables, namely, constipation symptoms and disease-specific HRQOL, were measured before the implementation of intervention (baseline), on Day 10 (at the completion of the intervention), and on Day 20 (at the 10th-day follow-up after the intervention). The generalized estimating equation model was adopted to evaluate the between-group and within-group differences in the complementary effects of auriculotherapy on constipation symptoms and disease-specific HRQOL. In the qualitative approach, the informants were recruited from participants of the experimental group who had successfully completed the study with mean scores in constipation symptoms at the top- or bottom-four ranking. The informants were individually interviewed to explore their experience and perceptions on the use and complementary effects of auriculotherapy in managing constipation. / Results: Ninety-nine participants were recruited in the study. Ninety participants received the intervention as assigned, and eventually, 81 participants completed the intervention. When the interaction effects of time and group were simultaneously considered, statistical significant differences were only found in the satisfaction subscale of the disease-specific HRQOL between the experimental group and placebo-controlled group A on both Day 10 (p=0.016) and Day 20 (p=0.016). For the experimental group, significant time effects were found in constipation symptoms (Day 10：p=0.013; Day 20：p<0.001) and disease-specific HRQOL (Day 10：p=0.005; Day 20：p<0.001) after receiving auriculotherapy. Most importantly, the participants who received auriculotherapy with magnetic pellets showed the greatest improvement in constipation symptoms and disease-specific HRQOL after the intervention compared with the two placebo-controlled groups. The qualitative findings further revealed that auriculotherapy is a safe, well-accepted therapy in managing constipation among elderly RCH residents. / Conclusion: The current study is the first known randomized placebo-controlled trial that evaluates the complementary effects of auriculotherapy in managing constipation in Hong Kong. The current findings indicate positive clinical value of auriculotherapy with magnetic pellets in managing constipation in elderly RCH residents. Auriculotherapy with magnetic pellets was found to provide favourable therapeutic effects in relieving constipation symptoms and in promoting disease-specific HRQOL among elderly RCH residents. This therapy is also considered by elderly people as a safe and acceptable therapy with minimal side effects. In addition, auriculotherapy is considered as a culturally relevant care modality for Chinese elderly RCH residents. The current study contributes new knowledge to nursing for future reference and directions in both nursing practice and nursing research with regard to the complementary effects of auriculotherapy in managing constipation among elderly RCH residents. / Detailed summary in vernacular field only. / Detailed summary in vernacular field only. / Detailed summary in vernacular field only. / Detailed summary in vernacular field only. / Detailed summary in vernacular field only. / Li, Mei Kuen. / Thesis (Ph.D.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2012. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 273-305). / Electronic reproduction. Hong Kong : Chinese University of Hong Kong, [2012] System requirements: Adobe Acrobat Reader. Available via World Wide Web. / Abstract and appendixes also in Chinese. / Chapter CHAPTER 1 --- INTRODUCTION / Introduction --- p.1 / Background of the study --- p.2 / Aim and significances of the study --- p.6 / Overview of the thesis --- p.6 / Chapter CHAPTER 2 --- LITERATURE REVIEW / Introduction --- p.8 / Constipation: Potentially expanding health problem in elderly population --- p.9 / Prevalence of constipation --- p.9 / Definition of constipation --- p.11 / Physiology and pathophysiology of defecation --- p.13 / Effects of constipation --- p.15 / Adverse individual health consequences --- p.15 / Economic burden in health care system --- p.18 / Contributory factors for constipation --- p.20 / Roles of nurses in managing constipation in current practice --- p.22 / Cautious use of laxatives --- p.24 / Lifestyle modification --- p.24 / Promoting dietary fiber intake --- p.25 / Encouraging oral fluid intake --- p.26 / Promoting physical activity --- p.26 / Integration of complementary therapy into nursing practice in managing constipation --- p.28 / Auriculotherapy --- p.30 / Historical overview of auriculotherapy --- p.30 / Conceptual framework of auriculotherapy --- p.31 / Approaches of auriculotherapy --- p.36 / Mechanism of auriculotherapy --- p.37 / Clinical applications of auriculotherapy in managing constipation --- p.39 / Complementary effects of auriculotherapy in managing constipation: Review of previous studies --- p.41 / Subject characteristics --- p.41 / Intervention protocol --- p.45 / Therapeutic outcome criteria and effectiveness --- p.50 / Strengths and limitations of the reviewed studies --- p.56 / Recommendations for future studies --- p.59 / Significances of the current study --- p.60 / Summary --- p.61 / Chapter CHAPTER 3 --- METHODS / Introduction --- p.63 / Overview of study design --- p.65 / Mixed-method study design --- p.66 / Quantitative approach --- p.66 / Qualitative approach --- p.68 / Research aim and objectives --- p.68 / Research aim --- p.68 / Research objectives --- p.68 / Null hypotheses --- p.69 / Operational definitions --- p.71 / Rationale of the study design --- p.73 / Rationale for adopting the mixed-method design --- p.73 / Rationale for adopting the randomized controlled trial design --- p.75 / Rationale for adopting double-blindness --- p.75 / Rationale for adopting random assignment --- p.76 / Rationale for adopting a pretest and repeated post-test design --- p.78 / Rationale for recruiting placebo-controlled groups --- p.79 / Quantitative approach --- p.81 / Sample --- p.81 / Accessible population --- p.81 / Sampling method and selection of participants --- p.82 / Sample size determination --- p.85 / Experimental intervention --- p.87 / Content of the experimental intervention --- p.87 / Integrity of experimental intervention --- p.92 / Qualification of the intervener --- p.92 / Consistency of implementation of intervention --- p.93 / Compliance of the participants to study instructions --- p.84 / Data collection --- p.95 / Study Instruments and records --- p.95 / Patient Assessment of Constipation Symptom Questionnaire (Cantonese Chinese for Hong Kong) (PAC-SYM) --- p.96 / Patient Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life Questionnaire (Cantonese Chinese for Hong Kong) (PAC-QOL) --- p.97 / Abbreviated Mental Test (Hong Kong version; AMT) --- p.98 / Physical Activity Questionnaire (Hong Kong version; PAQ) --- p.98 / Screening for eligibility of the participant --- p.99 / Demographic and Clinical Data Sheet --- p.99 / Assessment of Clinical Syndrome of Constipation --- p.99 / Assessment of oral intake of Fruits and Vegetables (AFV) --- p.100 / Bowel Movement Record (BMR) --- p.100 / Drug Administration Record (DAR) --- p.101 / Data collection procedure --- p.101 / Qualitative approach --- p.104 / Rationale for adopting criterion sampling --- p.105 / Pilot Study --- p.106 / Feasibility of the sampling method --- p.107 / Feasibility of the data collection instruments and procedure --- p.107 / Feasibility of implementation of the study intervention --- p.108 / Characteristics of the pilot sample --- p.109 / Sample size recalculation --- p.113 / Appropriateness of the interview guide --- p.114 / Recommendations for the main study --- p.115 / Data Analysis --- p.115 / Quantitative data --- p.115 / Assessment of accuracy of data entry --- p.116 / Description of sample characteristics --- p.117 / Assessment of homogeneity of the study groups --- p.117 / Detection of the intervention effect --- p.118 / Justification for choosing parametric statistical tests over non-parametric statistical tests --- p.118 / Adoption of the Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) model --- p.119 / Rationale for adopting the GEE model --- p.119 / Choosing the appropriate link function and working correlation matrix --- p.121 / Control of possible covariates in data analysis --- p.123 / Qualitative data --- p.124 / Ethical considerations --- p.125 / Principle of respect for persons --- p.126 / Principle of beneficence --- p.127 / Principle of justice --- p.128 / Summary --- p.129 / Chapter CHAPTER 4 --- RESULTS / Introduction --- p.132 / Recruitment and characteristics of participants --- p.133 / Recruitment of participants --- p.133 / Characteristics of the participants --- p.137 / Characteristics of the study sample and homogeneity among study groups --- p.140 / Characteristics of the study sample --- p.141 / Homogeneity of the characteristics of participants who received and those who did not receive the intervention in the study --- p.145 / Homogeneity of the characteristics of participants in the experimental and the placebo-controlled groups --- p.145 / Complementary effects of auriculotherapy in managing constipation --- p.149 / Adopting the GEE model --- p.152 / Checking the missing data --- p.152 / Identifying the covariates --- p.152 / Choosing the appropriate link function --- p.153 / Choosing the appropriate working correlation matrix --- p.160 / Complementary effects of auriculotherapy on constipation symptoms and disease-specific HRQOL --- p.160 / Complementary effects of auriculotherapy on constipation symptoms --- p.161 / Constipation symptoms (PAC-SYM) --- p.161 / Subscales of constipation symptoms --- p.165 / Abdominal symptoms subscale --- p.165 / Rectal symptoms subscale --- p.168 / Stool symptoms subscale --- p.172 / Summary of the complementary effects of auriculotherapy on constipation symptoms --- p.175 / Complementary effects of auriculotherapy on disease-specific HRQOL --- p.177 / Disease-specific HRQOL (PAC-QOL) --- p.177 / Subscales of disease-specific HRQOL --- p.181 / Physical discomfort subscale --- p.181 / Psychosocial discomfort subscale --- p.185 / Worries and concerns subscale --- p.186 / Satisfaction subscale --- p.190 / Summary of the complementary effects of auriculotherapy on disease-specific HRQOL --- p.193 / Effect size calculation --- p.196 / Findings revealed from study records --- p.197 / Monitoring of the intervention dose --- p.198 / Change of bowel movement pattern --- p.198 / Change in drug administration --- p.200 / Reporting of side effects associated with auriculotherapy --- p.202 / Reporting of unexpected beneficial effects after receiving auriculotherapy --- p.202 / Qualitative findings revealed from interview --- p.203 / Recruitment of informants --- p.203 / Characteristics of the informants --- p.204 / Qualitative findings --- p.207 / Benefits of auriculotherapy in managing constipation --- p.208 / Minor discomforts associated with auriculotherapy --- p.210 / Life as usual with the use of auriculotherapy --- p.210 / Willingness to adopt and recommend auriculotherapy to others --- p.213 / Summary of the qualitative findings --- p.214 / Summary --- p.215 / Chapter CHAPTER 5 --- DISCUSSION / Introduction --- p.217 / Profile of participants --- p.217 / Demographic and clinical characteristics of the participants --- p.218 / Baselines outcome variables of the participants --- p.224 / Clinical value of auriculotherapy with magnetic pellets in managing constipation --- p.226 / Summary of the key findings --- p.226 / Complementary effects in relieving constipation symptoms and in promoting disease-specific HRQOL --- p.228 / Safe and well-accepted intervention --- p.236 / Culturally relevant care modality --- p.239 / Challenges associated with recruiting elderly participants --- p.241 / Strengths and limitations of the current study --- p.246 / Strengths of the study --- p.246 / Limitations of the study --- p.253 / Summary --- p.257 / Chapter CHAPTER 6 --- CONCLUSION / Introduction --- p.258 / Contribution of new knowledge to nursing --- p.258 / Implications for nursing practice --- p.259 / Clinical application of auriculotherapy in nursing practice --- p.261 / Strategies to promote integration of auriculotherapy into nursing practice --- p.263 / Implications for nursing research --- p.266 / Recommendations for further studies --- p.268 / Conclusion of the whole study --- p.269 / REFERENCES (ENGLISH) --- p.273 / REFERENCES (CHINESE) --- p.303

Learners with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) traditionally display disruptive and other associated negative behaviour in the classroom setting. Behaviour management strategies utilised by the teacher in the school environment can assist in reducing this type of behaviour that impacts negatively upon their academic performance. This research study develops and investigates the effectiveness of a programme of practical behaviour management strategies designed to reduce disruptive behaviour of learners with ADHD in the classroom. / Educational Studies / M. Ed. (Educational Psychology)

Dissertation submitted in partial compliance with the requirements for the Master's Degree in Technology: Homoeopathy, Durban University of Technology, 2012. / INTRODUCTION Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/ADHD) is a multifactorial and clinically heterogeneous disorder that is associated with tremendous financial burden, stress to families and adverse academic and vocational outcomes (Bierderman, 2005). ADD/ADHD is currently one of the most researched childhood conditions, yet there is still much controversy and misunderstanding surrounding it. It is also one of the most commonly diagnosed disorders of childhood development (Picton, 2005) and the prevalence of this disorder in adults is increasingly recognized (Bierderman, 2005). Parents are seeking alternatives, as they are concerned with the side effects of Methylphenidate hydrochloride and other conventional medication used to treat the symptoms of ADD/ADHD. AIM The aim of this research was to document the current practices of registered homoeopathic practitioners, with regard to ADD/ADHD. In addition, their perceptions regarding aetiology, treatment, management and success rate was investigated. This research took the form of a qualitative survey targeting homoeopaths practicing within the KwaZulu- Natal region. METHOD A total of 42 practitioners were contacted, 35 practitioners initially agreed to participate in the study, and the questionnaires were electronically sent to them via email. Of these 35 homoeopaths, 22 participated in the survey, i.e. giving an overall response rate of 62 percent. The questionnaires were electronically distributed and collected via email. The raw data was coded and captured by Google docs and the results were analysed by utilizing the SPSS for Windows version 18 SPSS/PASW 2009. RESULTS The majority of the responding homoeopaths practiced in the more urban areas of KwaZulu-Natal, more specifically within the eThekwini Durban area. The majority of these homoeopaths had qualified from the Durban University of Technology, were English speaking females and were between the ages of 25-35 years old. The homoeopaths within this study found that most patients who present with ADD/ADHD symptoms are previously diagnosed by paediatrician’s neurologists or psychologists. According to the homoeopaths participating in the study, the general consensus is that the diagnosis of ADD/ADHD is given far too easily, and without proper assessment, 86 percent of the homoeopaths are of the opinion that ADD/ADHD is misdiagnosed, and ninety one percent stated that ADD/ADHD is over diagnosed. The majority of the practitioners prescribe a simplex remedy, or the Simillimum, whereas only a few practitioners prescribe a complex remedy. It was found that the most common complex prescribed is Nervoheel®. Some practitioners prefer to make up their own complexes, which would be patient specific. In this study it was found that 68 percent of the practitioners reported the sycotic miasm to be most common, and 54 percent of the practitioners reported the tubercular miasm to be the second most common presenting miasm. The homoeopaths in this study stated that they prefer to use a holistic approach to obtain optimal well being, thus advice, lifestyle adjustments, education and counselling all form part of the treatment and management of a patient with ADD/ADHD, making it unique and specific to each case. Of the adjunctive therapies, Vitamins, supplements, and nutritional changes are recommended, especially if a deficiency has been identified. The most commonly prescribed supplements for ADD/ADHD are the Essential Fatty Acids (EFA’s) followed by Vitamin B Complexes, Multi-vitamins and Magnesium, Zinc, and Calcium. CONCLUSION The majority of the homoeopaths in this study reported that they are having a moderate to great success in treating and managing patients with ADD/ADHD. Many of these practitioners thought there to be no single cause for ADD/ADHD, however many of them found there to be a few significant contributing factors to the development or aetiology of ADD/ADHD. These factors include; genetics, environment, diet, vaccinations and family dynamics. The majority of the practitioners believe that ADD/ADHD is far too easily diagnosed and that further assessment of the mental, emotional, and physical symptoms of the patient need to be taken into consideration. The majority of the homoeopaths in this study prefer to use Simplex treatment, and consider diet, lifestyle changes, and phytotherapy the most successful adjunctive therapies when treating and managing a patient with ADD/ADHD. Many of the practitioners within this study reported that homoeopathy should be considered a primary treatment option for patients with ADD/ADHD, as the focus of the treatment is on determining the cause of the symptoms, and then managing the patient as a whole, focusing on changing the diet, altering the lifestyle, and treating the totality of the mental, emotional and physical symptoms.

Thesis (MEd)--Stellenbosch University, 2014. / ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to better understand the lived experiences of a learner in a mainstream high school, who is experiencing a speech-flow difficulty, in order to gain insight into how best to support such a learner within an inclusive classroom. The theoretical framework on which this study was based is the bio-ecological model, inclusive education, positive psychology, resilience as well as developmental psychology, specifically the developmental phase of adolescence. The purpose of this was to view the learner holistically, taking into account all of the positive support structures in her life, especially, her levels of resilience, whilst taking cognisance of the fact that she is in the adolescent developmental phase, within a mainstream high school. Inclusive classrooms should ideally be structured in such a way that they accommodate a learner’s specific individual learning needs. The methodology employed in this study was based on a basic qualitative research approach, and viewed through an interpretive paradigmatic lens. Purposive sampling was used to select a learner who was experiencing a speech-flow difficulty. Various methods of data collection were employed, such as: a semi-structured interview with the learner and her mother, diary entries from the learner, a timeline of the learner’s life drawn by the learner herself, the researcher’s observations (both in the classroom and during a break time), as well as the researcher’s own reflective notes. Documents were also made available to the researcher, and these were the learner’s school reports, the learner’s speech therapy workbook, as well as a report on the learner from her speech therapist. This data was analysed through a qualitative coding process. The research findings indicated that the learner had various experiences, both positive and negative, within all spheres of her life. The majority of her experiences were positive, as the learner had strong support structures in her life, in the form of her mother, her friends, her sound academic capabilities, as well as her level of resilience. The learner is also currently receiving positive intervention in the form of speech therapy, where she is learning various strategies in order to assist her with her speech-flow difficulty. However, there are few factors that make the learner feel uncomfortable, especially in the classroom. The researcher has thus recommended ways in which educators can better support learners who are experiencing speech-flow difficulties within their classroom. / AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die doel van hierdie studie was om die geleefde ervaringe van ʼn leerder in ʼn hoofstroomskool, en wat ʼn spraakvloeiversteuring ervaar, te probeer verstaan. Die doel hiermee was om insig te verkry in hoe so ʼn leerder ondersteun kan word binne ʼn inklusiewe klaskamer. Die teoretiese raamwerk waarop hierdie studie berus is die bio-ekologiese model, inklusiewe onderwys, positiewe sielkunde, veerkragtigheid, sowel as ontwikkelingsielkunde, spesifiek die adolessente ontwikkelingsfase. Die mikpunt was om die leerder holisties te beskou, deur al die positiewe ondersteuningstrukture in haar lewe in ag te neem veral haar vlakke van veerkragtigheid, terwyl die feit dat sy haar in die adolessente ontwikkelingsfase bevind, en in ʼn hoofstroomskool is, verder lig op haar ervaringe kan werp. Inklusiewe klaskamers behoort dus in so ʼn mate gestruktureer te wees dat individuele behoeftes van leerders in ag geneem word. Die navorsingsmetodologie in hierdie studie het berus op ʼn basiese kwalitatiewe benadering, en beskou deur ʼn interpretatiewe paradigmatiese lens. ʼn Doelgerigte steekproef is gebruik om ʼn leerder te identifiseer wat ʼn spraakvloeiversteuring ervaar. Verskeie metodes van data-insameling is gebruik, byvoorbeeld semi-gestruktureerde onderhoude met die leerder en haar moeder, dagboekinskrywings van die leerder, ʼn tydlynoefening wat die leerder van haarself geteken het, die navorser se waarnemings (binne die klaskamer sowel as op die speelgrond), asook die navorser se reflektiewe notas gedurende die proses afgeneem. Dokumente is beskikbaar gestel aan die navorser, naamlik die leerder se skoolrapporte, haar werkboek wat sy gedurende spraakterapie sessies gebruik, sowel as ʼn verslag deur die spraakterapeut wat die deelnemer tans konsulteer. Die data is geanaliseer met behulp van ʼn kwalitatiewe koderingsproses. Die navorsingsbevindinge dui ʼn verskeidenheid van ervarings (positief sowel as negatief) aan wat die leerder binne al die areas van haar lewe ondervind. Die meerderheid van haar ervaringe is positief, aangesien sy sterk ondersteuningsstrukture in haar lewe het, veral haar moeder, haar vriende, haar sterk akademiese vermoeëns sowel as haar veerkragtigheid. Die leerder ontvang ook tans ʼn baie positiewe intervensie van ʼn spraakterapeut, waar sy ʼn verskeidenheid strategieë aanleer, wat haar help om die spraakvloeiversteuring mee te hanteer. Daar is egter ʼn paar faktore wat haar ongemaklik maak, veral in die klaskamer. Die navorser kan dus ‘n verskeidenheid van riglyne aanbeveel waardeur leerders met spraakvloeiversteurings ondersteun kan word binne die klaskamer.