Thesis (M. Tech. (Agriculture)) - Central University of Technology, Free state, 2013 / The study was carried out to establish whether or not a decrease in the progesterone concentration of an intravaginal device used to synchronize oestrous in Beefmaster heifers and cows would lead to an increase in conception rates. The study evaluated the effect of different intravaginal progesterone device doses on the conception rates of Beefmaster cows and heifers following fixed time artificial insemination (FTAI). A total of 100 stud Beefmaster cows (Cow group) and 100 stud Beefmaster heifers (Heifer group) were used in the study. The animals were year round grazing residents of the farm Oribilaagte near the town of Vrede in the Free State province of South Africa. The Cow and Heifer groups were split into four experimental groups, respectively, and treated with either a 0.5 g, 1.0 g, 1.9 g or 1.9 g re-used intravaginal progesterone device during the spring synchronization program (P4 device insertion and 2 mg i.m. oestradiol benzoate treatment on d 0, 250 μg s.c. PGF2_ treatment on d 7, P4 device removal on d 8, 1 mg i.m. oestradiol benzoate treatment on d 9, and FTAI on d 10). Blood samples were taken on the day of intravaginal insert removal (d 8), and on the day of FTAI (d 10), to monitor the blood serum P4 concentrations (solid phase RIA analysis) between the experimental groups. The experimental groups were examined for pregnancy 5 months post AI by means of rectal palpation. The Cow group recorded a pregnancy rate of 65%, 75%, 67% and 68% for the 0.5 g, 1.0 g, 1.9 g and 1.9 g re-used intravaginal progesterone device groups respectively. The Heifer group recorded a pregnancy rate of 19%, 39%, 41% and 47% for the 0.5 g, 1.0 g, 1.9 g and 1.9 g re-used intravaginal progesterone device groups respectively. The study concluded that a decrease in the progesterone concentration in the intravaginal device did not affect the serum progesterone concentrations in the Heifer and Cow groups on the day of the FTAI, and did not negatively affect the synchronization program. The study further concluded that, although a decrease in the progesterone concentration in the intravaginal device did not statistically influence the conception rates in the Heifer and Cow groups, the Cow group did record a higher numerical conception rate when the progesterone concentrations in the intravaginal devices were reduced.

Thesis (M. Tech. (Agriculture)) - Central University of Technology, Free state, 2013 / The objectives of the study were to find the relationship between live performance and testis traits of South African indigenous cockerels on Naked Neck, Ovambo and Potchefstroom Koekoek (Trial 1). Characterise Naked Neck, Ovambo and Potchefstroom Koekoek cockerels’ semen macroscopically and microscopically (Trial 2). To investigate the relationship between phenotypic and sperm traits of the South African indigenous cockerels Naked Neck, Ovambo and Potchefstroom Koekoek. (Trial 3). Quantification of indigenous cockerels sperm traits measured by Computer Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA) technology and the relationship to fertility (Trial 4). The cockerels shank, comb and wattle length were recorded with a vernier calliper. A total of 198 ejaculates were collected from 33 cockerels; Ovambo (n=11), Potchefstroom Koekoek (n=11) and Naked Neck (n=11) by means of an abdominal massage technique. Following analysis, 0.25 ml undiluted semen dose from Naked Neck (NN, 11), Ovambo (OV, 11) and Potchefstroom Koekoek (PK, 11) cockerels were inseminated NN (30), OV (30) and PK (30) hens once per week for 6 weeks. Semen was analysed macroscopically and microscopically. The sperm motility rate was evaluated with the aid of the Computer Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA) called Sperm Class Analyser (SCA) system. Breed significantly (P< 0.05) affected the body weight of Ovambo (2.5±0.4kg), Naked Neck (2.0±0.3kg) and Potchefstroom Koekoek (2.3±0.3kg) cockerels, OV was statistically heavier than NN and PK. The semen volume of Naked Neck (0.5±0.2ml) breed was significantly higher, when compared to Ovambo (0.4±0.2ml), but similar to Potchefstroom Koekoek (0.3±0.2ml) breed. The overall sperm motility rate of Ovambo (95.0±7.2%), Potchefstroom Koekoek (86.0±13.7%) Naked Neck (76.4±22.2%) group was significantly different. The normal sperm morphology in the Naked Neck (76.4±22.2%) was significantly lower when compared to Potchefstroom Koekoek (86.0±13.7%) and Ovambo (95.0±7.2%) cockerels. A positive correlation existed between body weight and semen volume for Potchefstroom Koekoek (r=0.1477) cockerels only. Moreover, there was a positive correlation between the body weight and total sperm motility for Naked Neck (r=0.3848), Ovambo (r=0.4871) and Potchefstroom Koekoek (r=0.2230) cockerels. However, a negative correlation existed between body weight and semen volume for Naked Neck (r=-0.4502) and Ovambo (r=-0.1244). There was no significant differences (P>0.05) on the shank length (SL), comb length (CL) and wattle length WL) of Naked Neck (8.4, 5.4 and 5.6 cm), Ovambo (8.3, 5.8 and 6.0 cm) and Potchefstroom Koekoek (7.7, 5.9 and 5.6). There was a positive correlation between shank length and wattle length, comb length, semen volume, sperm concentration, semen pH and live normal sperm, inversely, a negative correlation of body weight and total sperm motility was observed. Introspective a negative correlation existed between body weight and total motility. Ovambo (11.45±0.9 g) had the highest live weight of testis, it was significantly different from Naked Neck (9.2±0.8g) and Potchefstroom Koekoek (8.9±0.8 g). For average length of the testis there was a significant difference amongst all breeds, Ovambo (4.0±0.5 cm), Naked Neck (3.4±0.3 cm) and Potchefstroom Koekoek (3.7±0.4 cm). Following Al, significant differences were recorded in Potchefstroom Koekoek and produced eggs that had highest average egg weight (55.5 g), fertility (68.2 %), hatchability (78.6 %), percentage of normal chicks (80.1%) and chick weight (37.9 g) compared to Ovambo (40.4 g, 5 2.1 % , 70.2 %, 71.5 %, 32.8 g and Naked Neck (37.1 g, 50.6 %, 71.1 %, 75.8 % and 23.5 g). In order to achieve the highest level of fertility and hatched of fertile eggs, an adequate number of active males that are producing high quality semen should be maintained in the breeder house at all times. In conclusion, body weight positively affected semen volume and sperm motility rate but this was breed dependent. The Sperm of Potchefstroom Koekoek and Ovambo resulted in a better motility and morphology rate. The Sperm Class Analyser or CASA provided more precise, repeatable and objective information. Evaluation of the sperm motility rate of South African indigenous cockerels holds potential for future use in semen evaluation. Body weight of all three indigenous breeds was positively correlated with sperm concentration, semen pH, and total sperm motility. Shank and wattle length of all three indigenous breeds were positively correlated with semen volume, sperm concentration, and semen pH but not with total sperm motility. However, comb length was positively correlated with semen volume and pH, sperm concentration, and total motility. In conclusion, there is no correlation between live performance and testis traits. Though the study suggests that body weight and testicular length are good indicators of sperm production. Simple and indirect method of estimation is still needed to predict the fertility of the breeding cockerels. In order to achieve the highest level of fertility and hatch of fertile eggs, an adequate number of active males that are producing high quality semen should be maintained in the breeder house at all times. The Potchefstroom Koekoek, Ovambo and Naked Neck donated quality semen as well as in improving the fertility and hatchability traits of the indigenous chicken breeds. Chicken hatched from larger eggs had higher body weight, hatchability and fertility therefore breeders should select bigger egg sizes probably of 50-55g for breeding programmes. Consequently, the local cockerels have higher potential for use in natural mating and Al programmes since seminal traits could be a viable index for selection of breeding cockerels.

Thesis (M. Tech.) - Central University of Technology, Free State, 2011

Thesis (M. Tech.(Biomedical Technology)) - Central University of technology, Free State, 2011 / The existence of geophagia from as early as 460 BC up to now, makes it relevant to investigate all aspects related to geophagia. Geophagia is a direct route for potential transmission of pathogens to the human host, through the ingestion of soil. Soil-borne diseases in humans are causing growing concern as sewage disposal, which involve sewage sludge and waste water drainage from these plants, is on the increase. It is estimated that approximately seven million tons of sewage sludge is produced annually and that 54% of this sewage sludge is introduced into soil. Data on enteric infection in humans caused by contamination from soil is limited and need further investigation. The aim of the study was, therefore, to collect information on the microbiological presence in geophagic soil in the Qwa-Qwa district. Objectives included the collecting of information regarding various sampling sites in the Qwa-Qwa district and also soil samples sold by vendors, investigation of the prevalence of known human pathogenic bacteria and fungi in geophagic soil, investigating the culturability of Salmonella enteritidis in geophagic soil in comparison with the viability of these organisms in soil for long periods of time, investigating potential antimicrobial activity of geophagic soil, as some of the geophagists are convinced that the geophagic soils have medicinal properties, and to determine the microbial diversity of geophagic soils, which can not be accomplished by conventional microbial culturing methods.

Thesis (M. Ed.)- Central University of Technology, Free State, 2012 / The aim of this study was to investigate the challenges that teachers face with regard to the implementation of inclusive education in the Maseru district of Lesotho. The skill, training of teachers, planning and the way in which inclusive education is implemented has a great impact on learners. In this study, a quantitative method using survey research design in the form of a semi-structured questionnaire was applied to collect data from randomly selected teachers in two districts of Lesotho, namely Lithabaneng and St. Bernadette. Questionnaires were used extensively because they provide an efficient way to obtain information about a wide range of research problems. The basic objective of the questionnaire was to obtain facts and opinions about a phenomenon from people who are informed on the particular issue. The research study revealed two most profound results. Firstly, that teachers are not properly trained and consequently experience serious challenges when teaching learners with special needs in an inclusive classroom. Secondly, that inclusive education is not properly implemented because the results show that most Lesotho school buildings do not accommodate children with physical disabilities. Furthermore, it became evident from the results of the study that implementation of inclusive education is not well monitored. The recommendations made in this study are that teachers need to be trained properly with regard to inclusive education and its implementation in Lesotho and for future construction of building structures by the Lesotho government ensures that provision is made for learners with special needs.

Thesis (M. Tech. (Clinical technology )) - Central University of technology, Free State, 2013 / The incidence of epilepsy is high in sub-Saharan Africa and resource poor countries (RPCs). There are few neurologists and paediatric neurologists to manage people with epilepsy (PWE). Health care is often limited, particularly technological services, including electroencephalogram (EEG), video EEG monitoring, and Neuroradiology services. All these are important in the management of PWE. Since 2008, informal electrophysiology training has been provided at the Red Cross War Memorial Hospital, in the Department of Paediatric Neurology. The Principal Investigator (PI) elected to develop a formal teaching course on EEG interpretation at the Red Cross War Memorial Hospital. A study was designed to evaluate the practical use of a handbook entitled “Handbook of Paediatric Electroencephalography: A guide to basic paediatric electroencephalogram interpretation.” This has been developed to fulfill the need for basic understanding and interpretation of EEG amongst clinicians caring for children in sub-Saharan Africa who may not have access to, or be able to afford, training at a recognized facility or on-line. In 2008, the department of Paediatric Neurology at the Red Cross War Memorial Hospital had their first African fellow from Kenya. By 2011, seven participants had undergone EEG training. A quantitative research approach and design was used in order to evaluate the handbook in terms of the accessibility of the contents and its practical use. Quantification included the recruitment of participants who constituted the population sample, a pilot study, and the collection of data from comparative assessments of participants’ use of the handbook, and from questionnaires completed by participants. This provided the researcher with the opportunity to improve and validate her knowledge of training in EEG interpretation. The researcher was able to quantify and compare the scores of participants using the handbook, as well as to compare their evaluative responses to its content and practical use. Eleven of thirteen participants completed the study. The pre-training results showed a median percentage of 50 which increased to 70 percent post-test. A comparison of the scores of trained versus not-trained revealed that those participants who had undergone one-on-one training on site at the unit fared much better both in their interpretations, conclusions, and reporting of EEG findings. The responses from the evaluative and comparative survey between the two groups showed no significant difference across all questions, the majority of the questions on the relative usefulness of the handbook being rated ‘agree’ and ‘strongly agree’, thus supporting the finding that all participants found the handbook useful whether they had received one-on-one training or not. The post-training results in EEG interpretation showed a stronger trend towards statistical significance (p<0.06) with trained participants and with the not-trained. These findings lend support to the success and usefulness of the handbook as a basic guide to paediatric EEG interpretation. The handbook was not aimed at making the electroencephalography reader an expert at a specialist level, but rather to maximize the reliability of the reading of EEG when screening electroencephalograms for important key diagnostic markers which would alter the child’s management. This is the first published handbook on paediatric EEG in South Africa. The results of this study strongly suggest that the handbook is useful as a learning and reference tool in interpretation of paediatric EEG, both for individuals with access to one-on-one training as well as those without. It is intended that the handbook, in conjunction with one-on-one training, will form part of a post-graduate diploma course offered by the University of Cape Town on “basic electrophysiology and the management of children with epilepsy” for training neurologists and child neurologists, paediatricians and health care workers in sub-Saharan Africa.

Thesis (M. Tech.) - Central University of Technology, Free State, 2009

Thesis (M. Tech. (Language practice)) - Central University of Technology, free State, 2013

Thesis (M. Tech. (Clinical Technology)) -- Central University of technology, Free State, 2012 / Introduction: Reference ranges for cardiac measurement are available for adults, children and term infants but the same cannot be said for preterm or small for gestational age (SGA) infants surviving as a result of modern intensive care units. No published data of reference ranges for preterm infants exists for the South African population. Infants with congenital heart disease are twice as likely to be small for their gestational age and these reference ranges may affect clinical management decisions, therapeutic response and prognosis of these neonates. The aim was thus to establish reference ranges for cardiac dimensions and functional values for preterm and low birth weight infants for central South Africa and compare them with international standards. Methods: A total of 290 infants of less than 34 weeks of age and weighing less than 2500g at birth were examined during a twelve month period by echocardiography during the first 0-28 days of life. The study assessed normative cardiac measurements divided in M-Mode, 2-D and functional measurement for these infants in 3 weight groups. Exclusion criteria were applied to any condition affecting the size and functionality of the cardiac system. The following dimensions were measured: Standard M-Mode values for the left ventricle, 2D measurements of valve mitral and tricuspid orifices, as well as functional assessments including Shortening fraction (SF %), Ejection fraction (EF %), and Muscle performance Index (MPI)-index of the Left and Right ventricle. Measurements were done by the leading edge methodology following the ASE recommendations. A longitudinal study was also done to examine changes in these indices over the first month- on day 14 and day 28 of life. Interobserver differences were calculated for the variability between measurements of a single scan- 25 babies were re-measured and produced good repeatability. Results: 290 infants were included to produce Referance ranges of measurements (means and standard deviations) for 3 weight groups namely: <0.999g, 1000-1499g, and 1500g – 2500g. The gestational age’s ranges between 26-38 weeks with a median of 31 weeks, gender distribution was almost equal with a slight female preponderance. Body surface area ranged from a minimum from 0.076 m² and a maximum of 0.184 m², the body weight ranged between a minimum of 690g and a maximum of 2500g with a median of 1360g. Discussion: The left ventricular diastolic and systolic, interventricular septum, posterior wall, aortic and left atrium dimensions showed a proportionate increase in diameter with an increase in body weight There were no differences in cardiac dimensions between Small for Gestational age” (SGA) versus “Average for Gestational age” (AGA). Gender and race played no role in any functional measurements or with the cardiac sizes. Weight correlated well with BSA and the data suggest that weight only can be used to develop tables for clinical use. Cardiac chambers increased with BSA and weight and functional measurements stayed the same throughout the weight groups. Systolic and global functions were remarkably similar and constant throughout weight categories. . The longitudinal study also confirmed that the values are applicable to all low birth weight infants up to 28 days of age. Differences existed between some of the average South African infant’s cardiac chambers and international values. The Inter Ventricular Septum (IVS) and Posterior Wall (PW) measured thicker and the Left Atrium larger. This could be due to numerous factors that should be investigated further. Conclusion: The study emphasized the profound effect of growth and weight gain on the cardiac structure and that population specific reference values should therefore be developed and used.

Thesis(M. Ed.) - Central University of Technology, Free State, 2008. / The existence and survival of an individual and/or organization, such as a Higher Education Institution (HEI), have always depended on the ability of this individual or organization to control the environment in which it exists. This person or organization should overcome certain threats and obstacles that may cross its path by means of simple, pre-constructed plans. The situation must thus be managed in order to ensure the continuation of the person or organization. In this study the focus is on the functional tasks of the middle management team in an HEI. Middle management is concerned with the near future and is therefore responsible for medium- and short-term planning, organizing functional areas, leading by means of departmental heads, and controlling the management activities of the middle managers’ own departments. This study wants to identify factors in the different functional areas of middle management that could hamper the productivity of this area, and thus the institution as a whole. A qualitative study, with questionnaires as data capturing tool, was employed. Various factors that may hamper proper functioning were identified in the study. Lack of intra- and inter-departmental communication, staff shortages due to the restructuring process, countless policies and procedures in place (to streamline the execution of duties) hamper more than assist staff members in the execution of their duties. It was found that the staff members seek a sense of security, as this will lead to improved productivity.