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Item Embargo Bioaccumulation and the human health risk of p,p'-DDT, p,p'-DDD, p,p'-DDE in freshwater fish species from the north-eastern Limpopo River valley, Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa(2024-09-06) Mphephu, Sherron; Barnhoorn, I. E. J.; Bornmann, M. S.Dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane (DDT) has been used globally as an agricultural pesticide since the early 1940s, and both the United States and Canada banned its use in 1972. DDT is still used in the malaria-endemic region of South Africa for vector control through indoor residual spraying (IRS). Studies have reported a link between DDT exposure and prostate cancer risk and/or aggressive disease presentation in Italy, Canada, and the United States. Epidemiological analysis of men with prostate cancer (PCa) in South Africa showed an increased PCa risk in Vhavenda people, the predominant population of Vhembe. The Vhembe District municipality falls in the malaria-endemic region, where DDT is used for vector control. The region of interest is fed by three major tributaries of the Limpopo River, which provide communities with agriculture, washing/bathing and portable water as well food (fish). Therefore, environmental levels of p,p-DDT, p,p-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethane (DDD) and p,p- dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE) were measured before and after of the 2022 malaria high-transmission period (HTP), through sampling fish, from the Mutale and Mutshindudi rivers, and Thathe Vondo Dam. Fishes were bought from fishermen at the Thathe Vondo Dam and along the Mutale and Mutshindudi rivers. The fish's edible part (muscle), one piece raw and one piece cooked was tested for DDTs. Fish from the Mutshundudi River had higher DDT residuals than all other sites before the IRS. None of the DDTs were present after the yearly IRS. Daily exposure of DDTs for consumers was estimated by comparing estimated daily intake (EDI) with different criteria. The results revealed that the EDIs in our study were all lower than those criteria. Target hazard quotient (THQ) and risk ratio (R) were used to evaluate non-carcinogenic (toxic) and carcinogenic risks. There was no carcinogenic or toxic risk for humans consuming fish from the Mutale and Mutshindudi rivers and Thathe Vondo Dam. This indicates that DDT, DDD, and DDE in fish are not affecting the PCa burden in the Vhavenda men living in remote communities.Item Embargo Assessing the potential of biochar to restore degraded lands(2024-09-06) Shirinda, Hazel; Stam, E. M.; Mugwedi, L.Land degradation and climate change are interlinked processes that negatively impact sustainable development. Globally, they pose a risk to human livelihoods, but their effects are even more prominent in developing nations, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Even with land degradation and climate change currently happening, communities, especially in developing countries, still need to adapt to the changes. This may be due to the high adaptation costs and the need for more knowledge. Biochar is the product of the thermochemical conversion of biomass through pyrolysis. Using biochar as a soil ameliorant has been increasingly advocated because of its effects on soil properties, crop productivity, and carbon sequestration. Biochar has been reported to improve soil quality, crop yield, and soil carbon sequestration potential. Despite this, little is known about the effects of biochar on soil physical properties, making it difficult to recommend biochar to improve soil quality in agriculture. Thus, this study aims to assess the potential of biochar to restore severely degraded land by improving soil properties and crop productivity and mitigating climate change through carbon sequestration at the Lapalala Wilderness Reserve, Waterberg District, Limpopo Province, South Africa. For this purpose, four treatments (biochar, biochar with fertilizer, biochar without fertilizer, and control) were applied to four plots, each replicated five times. A 14-species grass mixture was sown in each of the 20 plots. Soil physical and chemical properties, plant biomass, carbon stock, species richness, and species composition were then measured. None of the four treatments had a significant effect on soil bulk density while only biochar had a significant effect on soil chemical properties of soil Total C, Na and soil pH. No treatment had a significant effect on plant biomass. The analysis of similarity showed no significant difference in species composition for all treatments at month three and month six. The species composition for both treatments and sites for months three and six was mostly similar. The effects of biochar were not significant on soil chemical and physical properties as well as plant growth and biomass. Longer-term studies with higher rates of biochar application are required to confirm the effects of biochar on soil properties, plant growth, and species composition. The biochar feedstock (e.g., agricultural residues, forestry residues, and grassland cutting), biochar properties (such as porosity, bulk density, carbon content) and soil types need to be taken into consideration before application of biochar into the soil to enhance soil properties and plant growth.Item Embargo Economic optimization of assurance in stochastic yield analysis of water resource systems(2024-09-06) Nyadawa, Chris Nduba; Makungo, R.; Mwaka, B.; Ndiritu, J.Allocation of water from South Africa’s already straining water resources systems is a complex task given the ever-increasing water demand. The situation is made worse because of diminishing suitable sites for water resources infrastructure development, limited financial resources, and effects of climate change. To mitigate failure of water supply and ensure progressive water allocation, South Africa adopted a risk-based water allocation system in which it allocates water at different assurances of supply. Since assurance of supply is inversely proportional to yield, some water authorities tend to allocate water at relatively excessive high assurances of supply to mitigate total failure of water resources. This practice of allocating water at excessively high assurances of supply in turn reduces the amount of allocable water from the water resource. Consequently, the practice in turn results in either emerging users being denied access to water and/or lowly prioritised users being curtailed more early/frequently to satisfy the highly prioritised users. This study, therefore, examined prospects of optimizing existing water resources by specifically investigating the prospects of increasing the economic benefits from a water resource through reduction of its assurance of supply. The study therefore conducted a comparative analysis on the Western Cape Water Supply System (WCWSS) to assess if the yield of the system could be increased for more economic benefits by either reducing the assurance of supply only or by adopting an infrastructural development. To achieve this objective, the study compared the net benefits derived from the Berg River Voelvlei Augmentation Scheme (BRVAS) infrastructural development project that would increase the yield of the WCWSS by 23 x106 m3/a, and the net benefits that could be derived from an increase in yield due to reduction of assurance of supply by a margin that would result in a yield similar to that of the intended BRVAS infrastructural project. The second section determined incremental yields from Tzaneen Dam and their corresponding net economic benefits due to reduction of assurance of supply. The third section tested if the optimum assurance of supply of Tzaneen Dam was sensitive to other water resources systems characterized by different hydrological regimes. To conduct this sensitivity analysis, incremental yields and corresponding net benefits due reduction of assurance of supply from, Midmar, Goedertrouw, Mokolo and Boegeberg dams were determined. The comparative analysis demonstrated that the yield of the WCWSS could also be increased by reducing the assurance of supply from the existing 1 in 50 years (1:50) to 1 in 30 years (1:30). It also demonstrated that adoption of reduction of assurance of supply as a method of increasing assurance of supply more economic benefits when compared to yield augmentation through infrastructural interventions as reduction of assurance of supply had a net benefit of R 96.2 x106 while the BRVAS infrastructural intervention had a net benefit of R 15.5 x106. Results established that Tzaneen Dam could be optimised at 1:18 assurance of supply. It was therefore concluded that not all reductions of the assurance of supply result in an incremental increase of the net benefits. Results from the sensitivity analysis revealed that each water resources system is unique as different water resources used in the sensitivity analysis, Midmar, Goedertrouw, Mokolo and Boegeberg Dams had their optimum assurances of supply at 1:12, 1:12, 1:8 and 1:10 levels, respectively. Both the comparative analysis and the sensitivity analyses acknowledge the role played by water availability in socio-economic development, however, for ease of analysis due to challenges of quantifying contribution due to sufficient or insufficient water, the socio-economic aspect was not included in the analysis. Overall, the study highlighted that the economic benefits of a water resource may be optimized by reducing the assurance of supply up to a certain level. The study therefore recommended that this practice should also be considered as an alternative method of increasing water availability from a system.Item Embargo Physicochemical, antioxidant and microstructural properties of malted finger millet (Eleusine coracana) flour(s) and their use in gluten-free biscuits.(2024-09-06) Murungweni, Kundai Thelma; Ramashia, S. E.; Mashau, M. E.Finger millet is a gluten-free crop with outstanding malting qualities, and a low glycaemic index. The study aimed to determine the physicochemical, antioxidant, and microstructural properties of malted finger millet flours (light and dark brown) and their use in gluten-free biscuits. The two varieties of finger millet grains were germinated for 0, 24, 48, and 72 hours (h) and kilned for 8 h at 30°C. The lightness (L*) values of malted finger millet flours significantly increased (p ≤ 0.05), with light brown having the highest L* value of 76.62. The moisture, ash, fibre, protein, mineral, total phenolic and total flavonoid contents and DPPH activity of both malted finger millet flours and biscuits significantly increased (p ≤ 0.05). Both malted finger millet flours' solubility index, water and oil absorption capacity increased significantly, while the packed and loose bulk density decreased. A significant decrease in the viscosity of the cooked paste in both finger millet flours was observed. Malting resulted in an increase in the onset, peak, and conclusion temperatures. FTIR showed that malting slightly changed the peaks of both finger millet flours. Scanning electron microscopy showed that malting altered the microstructural characteristics of finger millet flours. The yellowness and whiteness index of FM biscuits significantly increased, ranging from 41.47 to 42.12 and 42.21 to 45.47 (light brown) and from 67.78 to 70.97 and 71.92 to 75.41 for dark brown, respectively. The weight, diameter, thickness, and spread ratio significantly decreased with an increase in malting in both FM biscuits. The hardness of the biscuits significantly increased from 762.53 to 1720.28 g (light brown) and 747.50 to 1918.71 g (dark brown). The LB biscuits had more desirable sensory attributes as compared to the DB biscuits. It was concluded that malted FM flour can be used to prepare nutritious and healthier gluten-free bakery products.Item Embargo Mapping activities of stakeholders along selected value chains in Vhembe District Municipality, South Africa(2024-09-06) Mulaudzi, Rotondwa; Zuwarimwe, J.; Mathaulula, M. A.Farmer’s, transporters and retailers are major key players along the vegetable value chains in South Africa and globally. Their roles and activities along the vegetable value chain are affected by lack of capital, resources, transportation, storage, packaging materials, education and high transactional costs. This is evidenced by high levels of dissatisfactions along the vegetable value chain and is contributing to high loss of jobs in the vegetable industry, shortage and high cost of vegetables and increasing number of vacant farms. Thus, this study was carried out to Map activities of stakeholders along selected vegetable value chain in Vhembe District Municipality, South Africa. The quantitative research approach was adopted. Stratified simple random sampling technique was used to select 185 respondents. Self-administered structured questionnaire consisting of closed-ended questions was used to collect primary (raw data). A 5-point Likert-type scale ranging from 5 (strongly agree) to 1 (strongly disagree) was also used in the process. The study used descriptive analysis, (mean, median, and mode), range variance, standard deviation and some inferential statistics for the analysis. The data was analysed using IBM Statistical Package for the Social Science version 28.0.1.1. Atlas t.i version 8 was also used to create diagrams for analysis. Cronbach’s alpha was used to ensure reliability and high internal consistency of Likert-type scale. The study shows that players need various sources of assistants as to ensure sustainable vegetable value chain. The study further reflects that though they are faced with various challenges players are striving to ensure food security, sustainable vegetable value chains, good nutrition and to achieve goal 2 (ending hunger, achieving food security and promoting sustainable agriculture) of the SDG’S.Item Embargo Genetic diversity of Human Herpesvirus Type 8 in Northern South Africa(2024-09-06) Raphalalani, Mulalo; Bessong, Pascal Obong; Mavhandu-Ramarumo, Lufuno GraeBackground: Human herpesvirus type 8 (HHV-8), is an oncogenic virus responsible for causing all forms of Kaposi`s sarcoma (KS). HHV-8 prevalence varies globally, however, it is more prevalent in African countries, with South Africa having over 50% of HHV-8 infections. HHV-8 encodes a highly diverse open reading frame (ORF) K1 gene, which has led to the identification of seven major genotypes (A-F and Z) that are heterogeneously distributed across the world. The viral genetic landscape of any geographical area is of paramount importance in vaccine development and diagnostics. However, data on HHV-8 genotypes is scarce in northern South Africa. Therefore, this study will provide genetic diversity of HHV-8 in northern South Africa, and this may aid in the selection of genes for vaccine development. Objective: The main objective of the study was to describe the genetic diversity of human herpesvirus type 8 in northern South Africa. Methodology: Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) was extracted from 115 archived mouthwash samples collected from five healthcare facilities in northern South Africa. The partial open reading frame (ORF) K1 gene (~840bp) was amplified in a two round conventional PCR using JumpStart REDTaq master mix. The band of interest was extracted by phenol-freeze protocol and enriched using conventional PCR. Enriched amplicons were purified and sequenced in an Illumina MiniSeq platform. K1 genotypes were inferred using an online BioAfrica HHV-8 subtyping tool and confirmed by computing a phylogenetic tree. Intra-genetic diversity among HHV-8 genotypes was described by aligning study sequences with their respective prototype strains. Synonymous and nonsynonymous mutation rates were computed by the online SNAP tool. Results: K1 gene was successfully amplified in 61.7% (71/115) samples, along with unspecified DNA bands. The band of interest was successfully recovered in 67 amplicons (94.4%). Sixty-five gel extracted products (65/67; 97%) were successfully enriched and purified using magnetic beads. Of the 65 purified samples, 63 were sequenced using Illumina MiniSeq platform. Thirty-seven sequences had an acceptable nucleotide base call. The prevalence of HHV-8 in the study sequences was 94% (35/37) and majority of the sequences (24/35;68%) had sequence reads that span partial or complete K1 gene. Two major genotypes were detected (A and B); genotype B (19/24;79%) had a higher prevalence than genotype A (5/24; 21%). All sequences which grouped with genotype A were further classified as subtype A5. Interestingly, all sequences that were classified as genotype B did not cluster to any of the B subtypes. A higher genetic drift was observed among the study sequences reaching up to 33.7% at the amino acid level. Genotypes A and B exhibited 16.67% and 7.41% intra-genetic diversity at the amino acid level, respectively. Several amino acid polymorphisms were observed at the ITAM region of genotype A sequences (OUHC 013 and ODF 029), while the ITAM region of the B sequence was conserved. Conclusion: In this study, a predominance of HHV-8 genotype B was observed in northern South Africa. Additionally, there was a high degree of evolutionary divergence among the studied sequences. A higher frequency of nonsynonymous mutations was detected at the ITAM region of A5 sequences and these mutations may potentially affect the functionality of ITAM.Item Embargo The Adoption of the National Traffic Information System (NaTIS) by the Citizens during the Covid-19 Pandemic in South Africa(2024-09-06) Rambau, Thifhindulwi Maxwell; Munyoka, W.; Ochara, N. M.This study examines citizens' engagement with the National Department of Transport services in South Africa, focusing on the NaTIS system. The central issue under investigation is the factors influencing the adoption and utilization of NaTIS among South African citizens. This study identifies and synthesizes several key themes through an extensive literature review. These themes include - the significance of user-friendliness and robust support mechanisms, adaptability to new technologies, working experience, awareness, trust, user preferences, and the role of social influence in technology adoption. Underpinned by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), this study employs a mixed-method approach, hence, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative methods. It utilizes surveys, factor analysis, and regression analysis to gather and analyse data, thereby, offering a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing NaTIS adoption. The study provides empirical insights into citizens' interactions with NaTIS. Key findings emphasize the importance of - user-friendliness, adaptability to new technologies, and social influence - in promoting technology acceptance. These findings present valuable guidance for policymakers and public service managers, to enhance the quality of e-Government services in South Africa. The recommendations offered in the study can contribute to making public services more citizen-centric and technologically-acceptable.Item Embargo Harnessing ICT’s Capacity Building for Marginalized Communities of Vhembe District Municipality in Limpopo Province, South Africa(2024-09-06) Nemalamangwa, Mulanga Aluwani Wisdom; Munyoka, Willard; Kadyamatimba, ArmstrongInformation Communication Technology (ICT) brings hope to marginalised people who are excluded from participating in the mainstream activities in South Africa, such as groups of people living in communities within the Vhembe district Municipality. This study investigated the factors affecting marginalized people from using ICT services for development and went on to propose a sustainable information and communication technology (ICT) framework. This study gathered reliable empirical data to gain a deeper understanding of the impacts of ICTs capacity for development in marginalised groups in South Africa. This was done by reviewing ICT policies and ICT regulation making process. A literature review was conducted to enhance the understanding of human capabilities through ICTs. The review examined many articles to identify the different theories of development and the role of technologies in the process of development. This study adopted a positivism research paradigm associated with quantitative research for hypothesis testing. This study is intended to propose a framework to facilitate the development of ICT capacity among the marginalized people. This study is underpinned by Amartya Sen's Capability Approach and theories that operationalise it, to evaluate the impact of ICTs towards human capabilities. The framework provides a multidimensional perspective to understand capacity building of marginalised communities and how ICTs can be a catalyst empowerment. The study will contribute to the ongoing debate on the impact of ICT provision and usage in marginalized people for capacity building (CB).Item Embargo Parental engagement in the education of Grade 1 learners during COVID-19 Pandemic in Rakwadi 2 Circuit(2024-09-06) Mafa, Mmapotlo Constance; Mulovhedzi, S. A.The study sought to investigate parental engagement in the education of Grade 1 learners during the Covid-19 pandemic in Rakwadu 2 Circuit in Limpopo province. The Covid-19 pandemic led to an abrupt closure of all South African schools on the 18th of March 2020. Therefore, the closure of schools was the right decision to control the spreading of the virus among learners and teachers. However, learners’ performance was severely affected as they languished at home without any curricular assistance from parents. The study was guided by Joyce Epstein's theory, subsumed under the interpretive research paradigm. An explorative qualitative research design was employed, and data were collected through face-to-face interviews, observations and document analysis. Observations were conducted with the teachers only. Teachers were observed while collecting work from the learners and further analysed thematically. A purposeful sampling procedure was employed to select twelve (12) participants from two (2) primary schools; two (2) Grade 1 teachers per school (the total number of teachers was 4) and eight (8) parents whose learners were in Grade 1. There were four parents from each sampled school. The findings revealed distinctive challenges of insufficient parental engagement in the school setting. The study recommended parents to get involved in education to improve learners’ performance amidst the impact of the Covid19 pandemic.Item Embargo Synthesis of Acid Leached Diatomaceous Earth/ Amine-Functionalized Activated Carbon Composite and its Potential Application in Oily Wastewater Treatment(2024-09-06) Mabidi, Thinawanga Jennifer; Gitari, W. M.; Mudzielwana, R.; Izevbekhai, O. U.Due to the expanding worldwide oil exploration, a significant amount of oily wastewater is being produced. Oily wastewater lowers the diversity of aquatic life and plants by changing the structure of aquatic communities and food chains, among other ecological disturbances. Therefore, the overall aim of this project is to synthesize acid-leached diatomaceous earth (DE) and amine-functionalized activated carbon composite adsorbent for the treatment of oily wastewater. Acid leached diatomaceous earth was synthesized by leaching the raw diatomaceous step-wisely in a 120 mL volume of 2.2 M Nitric acid (HNO3) for three hours on a hotplate set to 60°C at a speed of 300 rpm. Thereafter, the mixture was filtered and the residue was washed with 1.5 L of deionized water. The residue was oven-dried at 50°C for 12 hours. The acid leached DE was then ground with mortar and pestle and then kept in a zip lock bag for further use in oily wastewater treatment. Activated carbon was synthesized from raw macadamia nutshell using of Orthophosphoric acid (H3PO4). Response surface methodology was used to determine the optimum conditions for synthesizing activated where 3 parameters (activation time, impregnation ratio, and activation temperature) were varied. Furthermore, 13 runs were completed at diverse conditions from the response surface methodology. To modify the synthesized activated carbon, hydroxylamine hydrochloride was used as a chemical agent to enhance the adsorption efficiency on the surface of the activated carbon and the amine-functionalized activated carbon was used in the removal of oil from oily wastewater. Lastly, a composite was prepared using both the synthesized acid leached diatomaceous earth and amine functionalized activated carbon and further evaluate its adsorption capacity and oil removal efficiency. All the synthesized adsorbents were applied in oily wastewater treatment and response surface methodology was used to optimize the variable parameters (adsorbent dosage, initial oil concentration and contact time) and to determine the optimum conditions for the oil removal efficiency. Therefore, this study was divided into 3 sections of results as discussed below. The first section of results is focused on the preparation of acid leached diatomaceous earth and its application in oily wastewater treatment. The results showed that acid treatment does not alter the physical structure of the diatomaceous earth significantly although there was an increase of silica content, its surface area, and pore volume from 78.98 to 91.57%, 15.02 to 22.40 m2/g, and 60.88 to 68.71 Å, respectively. The maximum adsorption capacity of 124.16 mg/g and oil removal efficiency of 78.55% were achieved at initial oil concentration of 3229.69 using 0.05 g adsorbent dosage and 119.20 mins contact time. The adsorption kinetics data fitted better to pseudo-second order model (R2=0.98) of reaction kinetics indicating that adsorption occurred through chemisorption. The adsorption isotherms were descried better by the Freundlich isotherms model (R2=0.87) indicating that adsorption occurred in a heterogeneous and multilayer surface. The second section focused on the synthesis of amine functionalized activated carbon for oily wastewater treatment. Activated carbon was prepared from macadamia nutshells (MNS) using H3PO4 as activating agent and further modified with amine groups using hydroxylamine hydrochloride. Amine-functionalization increases the adsorption capacity and removal efficiency due to expansion of the adsorbent’s particles. The oil removal experiment using amine-functionalized activated carbon showed a maximum percentage removal of 82.93% with adsorption capacity of 167.96 mg/g when initial oil concentration of 10 000 mg/L, adsorbent dosage of 0.1 g adsorbent dosage and contact time of 60 mins were used. The adsorption kinetics data fitted to pseudo-second order model (R2=0.92) of reaction kinetics indicating that adsorption occurred via chemisorption. The adsorption isotherm data fitted Freundlich adsorption isotherms (R2=1) model indicating that adsorption took place on heterogeneous and multilayer surface. The last section of the study focused on the preparation of the acid leached diatomaceous earth/amine-functionalized activated carbon composite adsorbent and its application in treatment oily wastewater. Due to challenges associated with synthesizing an ideal adsorbent for oily wastewater treatment, this composite adsorbent was synthesized to overcome the activated carbon drawbacks which include low thermal conductivity affecting the regeneration efficiency leading to a reduced adsorption capacity after being used for a certain period. Consequently, the advantages of the diatomaceous earth which include excellent heat resistance and its high porosity can improve the physicochemical properties such as surface area and thermal conductivity on the composite adsorbent. The SEM micrographs showed the presence of pores and rough surface with some particles of varying sizes on the surface of the composite material due to the addition of some functional groups which allowed the transfer of the oil molecules into the inner surface of the composite adsorbent. The prepared composite adsorbent showed a maximum oil removal percentage of 90.02% with maximum adsorption capacity of 416.67 mg/g at initial oil concentration of 5250 mg/L, an adsorbent dosage of 0.3 g, and contact time of 60 mins. The adsorption kinetics data showed a better fit to the pseudo-second order model (R2=0.98) showing that adsorption took place via chemisorption. Freundlich adsorption isotherm model descried the adsorption better showing that adsorption occurred on a heterogeneous and multilayer surface. Based on these findings, both materials prepared in this study has potential for use in treatment of oily wastewater. However, the composite displayed higher affinity towards treatment of oily wastewater compared to the acid leached diatomaceous earth and amine-functionalized activated carbon. Based on the conclusions, the main recommendations made from this study were to: 1) test the feasibility of adsorbent in field application and 2) conduct the cost-benefit analysis for this adsorbent.Item Embargo Effects of orange-fleshed sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas)-Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) composite flour on quality properties of pasta(2024-09-06) Makhuvha, Makgwatla Consorlerlia; Silungwe, H.; Laurie, S.; Mosala, M.Non-wheat flours are being used to partially replace wheat flour. This is expected to increase the utilization of local raw materials while easing demand for wheat. The goal of the study was to investigate how composite flour derived from orange fleshed sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) LAM) and Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranean (L.) Verdc) affects the quality of pasta while also improving its nutritional characteristics. Orange fleshed sweet potatoes (OFSP) were produced at the Agricultural Research Council Roodeplaat Campus in Pretoria, and Bambara groundnuts were sourced from the Thohoyandou area, Vhembe district in South Africa. The OFSP were peeled, sliced, dried for 10 hours at 60℃ using a hot air oven drier and ground into flour. Bambara groundnut flour was made by soaking the seeds in water for 24 hours, dehulling them, drying them in an oven dryer for 24 hours at 60℃, and they were then ground into flour. The pasta was produced from a mixture of semolina, OFSP and Bambara groundnut flours in the ratios 90:5:5; 70:15:15 and 50:25:25. The functional and physicochemical properties of the pasta, as well as its cooking and sensory qualities were investigated. The samples were analyzed in triplicate using a randomized complete block design. The data was subjected to ANOVA and the Duncan multiple range test was used to differentiate significant means. Pasta produced from composite flour significantly affected the proximate composition and cooking quality compared to 100% wheat pasta. Good nutritional quality pasta was obtained from the blend of 50:25:25 semolina, OFSP and Bambara groundnut flour which exhibited a high value of protein (9.73%), ash (4.38%) and fibre (2.27%), vitamin A (1.95mg/100g) and vitamin C (8.93mg/100g) content. The pasta enhanced with composite flour of 70:15:15 semolina, OFSP and Bambara groundnut was mostly preferred during consumer acceptability testing compared to the pasta produced from 90:5:5 semolina, OFSP and Bambara groundnut flour; 50:25:25 semolina, OFSP and Bambara groundnut flour and 100% wheat.Item Embargo The Adoption of Learning Management Systems by Private Schools during the Covid-19 Pandemic in Limpopo Province of South Africa(2024-09-06) Ticharwa, Beaular Lilian; Munyoka, W.; Madzvamuse, S.Learning Management Systems (LMS) are becoming essential to the educational process. The continuous adoption and usage of LMS addresses multiple flaws of the traditional education system. LMS became a crucial part of any educational process during the 2020 Coronavirus pandemic, as the circumstances made it unsafe to continue with the formal face-to-face educational process. The purpose of the study was to investigate the adoption of learning management systems by private schools during the Covid-19 pandemic in the Limpopo Province of South Africa to come up with an LMS framework that the schools could use to guide the adoption and usage of e-learning during abnormal times such as COVID-19 pandemic. This study adopted a mixed methods research methodology and utilized a cross-sectional survey and case study research designs. The study population included teachers and learners in Limpopo Province private schools. Probability and non-probability sampling methods were employed through cluster and purposive sampling techniques to arrive at the study sample. Survey questionnaires were used to collect quantitative data, while structured interviews were used to collect interview data. Quantitative data were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The descriptive statistics included frequency distributions, mean, and measures of dispersion, while the inferential statistics used the ANOVA, multiple regression analysis, Pearson correlation coefficient, and F-test. This was computed with STATA version 16. Qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis. Both quantitative and qualitative results were converged to obtain a comprehensive assessment. The study found that ICT infrastructure availability and positive organizational and environmental factors are significantly related to LMS adoption. The challenges to LMS adoption include students’ lack of e-learning skills, negative attitudes, teacher unpreparedness, and inequalities among learners and educators. These results indicate that for schools to adopt LMS effectively, they should consider the needs of their institutions, choose user-friendly platforms, ensure that LMS are scalable, provide technical support, encourage engagement, and regularly monitor system usage and performance. The study's limitations were not addressing the long-term effects of LMS use on education or the comparative effectiveness of different LMS. This could also provide a valuable foundation for longitudinal studies tracking the effects of LMS adoption over time.Item Embargo A Sense-making Perspective of Algorithmic Accountability during Infodemics(2024-09-06) Ramaru, Rifhiwa Rodney; Munyoka, Willard; Ochara, Nixon MugandaDuring the pandemic era, enormous amounts of data were available to decision-makers. Much of the data was generated using algorithms in which people did not want to be held accountable for any wrong/false information (misinformation) that was being provided to the public, either on internet websites, social media or television and radios. Algorithmic Accountability examines the process of assigning responsibility for harm when algorithmic decision-making results in discriminatory and inequitable outcomes. Mis-and disinformation about science, technology, and health is neither new nor unique to the COVID-19 era. Amid an unprecedented global health crisis, many journalists, policy makers, and academics have echoed what World Health Organisation has stressed that misinformation about the pandemic presents a serious risk to public health and public action. The biggest challenge is that this misinformation or fake news is drowning official public health advice on COVID-19, making it extremely problematic for the voices of healthcare professionals to be heard; the implications of this may be enormous as it may cause the virus and other pandemics to spread more rapidly within diverse populations. The purpose of this study was to establish the extent of Misinformation during Infodemics, to address the lack of Algorithmic Accountability. A mixed-methods approach was used as the topic required a purposeful mixing of methods in data collection, data analysis, and interpretation of the evidence. The key word is ‘mixed’; this explains that an essential step in this approach is data linkage or integration at appropriate stages in the research process. The researcher used Spyder Python for extracting data from the Twitter API and then used Feedly which is a news aggregator application for various web browsers and mobile devices running iOS and Android; this procedure is also available as a cloud-based service. Python was used to compile news feeds from a variety of online sources for the researcher to customize and share with others; after filtering for the Covid-19 Tweets there were 21 of 508 records. The analysis suggests that misinformation about COVID-19 comes in many different forms, from many different sources, and makes many different claims. The process of misinformation often rearranges existing or accurate content relatively than formulated on a large scale, and where it is manipulated, it is edited with simple tools. Given the breadth of the pandemic, independent media and actions by platforms and others played a vital role in addressing virus-related misinformation. Government websites and the World Health Organization (WHO) can help sort false from true material, and accurate from misleading assertations. With running topic modelling for the data consisting of 21 of 508 tweets, topic modelling provided a way to compress the big data qualitative phase of the research.Item Embargo An investigation of hygiene practices in butcheries and the prevalence of antibiotic resistant Listeria monocytogenes in Limpopo, South Africa(2024-09-06) Siluma, Bridget; Ramashia, S. E.; Nethathe, B.; Kgatla, T. E.Listeria monocytogenes is a foodborne bacterial pathogen associated with serious public health and food safety problems. It is an intracellular microbe that causes Listeriosis, a life-threatening disease that yields to bacteremia, meningitis, and spontaneous miscarriage. This study aimed to conduct the survey and investigate the prevalence and antibiotic susceptibility of L. monocytogenes from butcheries (village & commercial) and supermarkets beef plate meat in the Vhembe district. Evaluation of meat safety practices and hygiene among different butcheries and supermarkets was conducted using a questionnaire. The prevalence of L. monocytogenes in retail beef plate meat was determined on chromogenic agar and the antibiotics susceptibility was examined from L. monocytogenes isolates using the well diffusion method. The results of this study revealed that (i) some supermarkets followed the meat safety practices and hygiene, whereas there was a combination of good and unhygienic meat handling practices identified at commercial and village butcheries (ii) L. monocytogenes were identified in high numbers however some other species of Listeria such as L. ivanovii and L. innocua were found in beef plate meat (iii) The Listeria isolates were resistant to a wide range of antibiotics used to treat human listeriosis such as ampicillin, tetracycline and nalidixic acid in large numbers while a few of the isolates were susceptible to sulphamethoxazole and intermediary responsive to oxytetracycline and chlortetracycline. The findings from this study concluded that some supermarkets follow the safety procedures while commercial and village butcheries do not follow the procedures and regulations, furthermore, the prevalence of the pathogenic L. monocytogenes may harm the communities around Vhembe district. Moreover, treatment in case of an outbreak may become burdensome as the pathogen may be resistant to antimicrobial treatment. It is recommended that intervention through training on food safety to improve the hygienic practices of meat handling along the beef supply chain, more especially within commercial and village butcheries be conducted, also L. monocytogenes control measures from relevant authorities need to be put in place, meat must be prepared adequately, and antibiotics must be utilized appropriately. In addition, conducting molecular research on Listeria species to determine the virulence genes present in L. monocytogenes isolated from retail beef, to keep track of the type of strains of Listeria that may be circulating in the Vhembe district is recommended.Item Embargo The adsorption of bidens pilosa dye molecules onto TiO2 nanoparicle surfaces for optimization of light harvesting efficiency in dye sensitized solor cell: an experimental and theory study(2024-09-06) Randela, Ronel Ronella; Maluta, N. E.; Mathomu, L. M.; Maphanga, R. R.The availability and high demand for electrical energy is a key global concern, as a result, Dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) have attracted a lot of attention in recent years due to their ease of preparation, low toxicity, and environmental friendliness. The current study describes the green synthesis of TiO2 nanoparticles as well as their characterization using ultraviolet-visible, Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. Furthermore, the study used Density Functional Theory to describe the optical characteristics of produced nanoparticles. The UV-Vis results showed that the dye extracted using solvents such as water, methanol, and ethanol had a common absorbance at 665 nm among the solvents used ethanol had the highest absorption. The molecules responsible for a broader range of absorbance are known to be pheophytin and porphyrin, which are found in chlorophyll extracted from the B. pilosa plant. FTIR analysis of the prepared TiO2 revealed the absorbed functional groups of the synthesized B. pilosa extracts and confirmed the formation of TiO2 NPs with a vibrational band at 497 cm 1. The TiO2 NPs were heterogeneous in shape under TEM and SEM but spherical under SEM, indicating the formation of paste during agglomeration. XRD analysis confirmed that the polymorph formed is anatase with the highest peak of (101) surface, which was used to computationally adsorb the dye molecule. Pheophytin and porphyrin characteristics were optimized using DFT. For both experimentally and computationally, the UV-vis absorbance was found to be between 420 nm and 665 nm with a higher light harvesting efficiency. pheophytin and porphyrin exhibited energy gaps of 2.1 eV and 2.8 eV respectively. This study demonstrates that the dye molecule synthesized from B. pilosa is an efficient sensitizer for DSSCs. The adsorption results substantiate the spontaneous electron injection and subsequent efficient regeneration of oxidized dye molecules and the strong binding ability of porphyrin dye molecules to the TiO2 surface. The results of this study will be useful for the development of highly efficient organic dyes for DSSCs.Item Embargo International Financial Reporting Standards for Small, Medium and Enterprises (IFRS for SMEs) and the quality of financial reporting: Some evidence from the Limpopo Province(2024-09-06) Sirembe, Ndivhuwo; Moyo, V.; Oseifuah, E. K.Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) play a vital role in the South African economy. South Africa's Companies Act (71 of 2008) requires companies to follow either full International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) or IFRS for SMEs. IFRS for SMEs was introduced by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) in 2009 as an alternative framework for eligible entities, offering an option instead of the complete set of IFRSs. Despite the introduction of IFRS for SMEs, there has been no comprehensive examination of its impact on the financial reporting quality (FRQ) of SMEs in South Africa. This study aimed to provide in-depth insights into the quality of financial reporting by SMEs in the Limpopo Province since the adoption of IFRS for SMEs in South Africa. The study sampled twenty accounting firms, selecting five from each municipality to handle Annual Financial Statements (AFS) for five SMEs each, resulting in a total of 100 SMEs. Since there is no universally agreed-upon metric for assessing FRQ, the study used three previously employed measures and an aggregate measure. This approach served two purposes: firstly, to account for all facets of FRQ as a single proxy might fall short, and secondly, to enhance the generalisability of our findings. Ordinary Least Square (OLS) Regression analysis was employed to investigate the period post-IFRS for SMEs adoption. This investigation spanned two periods: the initial five years (2010-2014) and the last five years (2015-2019), with the objective of assessing whether FRQ improved over time. Several models were examined using linear regression to analyse the relationship between independent and dependent variables. The analysis was conducted using STATA 15 software. The study’s findings offer evidence that precise accrual recording and the adoption of IFRS for SMEs have positively impacted the financial reporting quality of SMEs, leading to increased earnings levels and improved accounting conservatism. Furthermore, the findings accentuate the importance of adhering to accrual accounting principles and embracing standardised reporting practices for SMEs, as these contribute to the overall credibility and utility of financial information for stakeholders. This study offers valuable insights to accounting standard-setting bodies, professional associations, SME accountants, owners, investors, and academics, enhancing their understanding of IFRS for SMEs’ impact on SME financial reporting quality.Item Embargo The Small-Scale Broiler Value Chain Configuration and Market Access Constraints in Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa(2024-09-06) Nemakonde, Rabelani Richard; Manjoro, M.; Zuwarimwe, J.The number of broiler farmers in developing countries is increasing, however they face several challenges that impede their growth. Access to sustainable market is a critical challenge for broiler farmers which is hampered by underdeveloped value chains. Hence, identifying value chain constraints and areas to strengthen in small-scale broiler production is crucial to enhance competitiveness. Sixty (n = 60) farmers were sampled to assess the value chain configuration and market for small-scale broiler farmers in Vhembe district of Limpopo province in South Africa. Both Quantitative and Qualitative data was gathered using a structured questionnaire with open and close-ended questions. Quantitative data was analysed using statistical package for social science version 27. Moreover, descriptive analysis (SPSS version 27), Thematic analysis (Atlas Ti version 8), Thematic content analysis (Atlas Ti version 8) was used to analyse the data. The results suggest that value chain configuration is directly correlated to marketing configurations. This study also reveals that lack of capital is the main challenge that give birth to many other challenges like lack of abattoirs and access to main production inputs for growth. It also reveals that the combination of these challenges made it difficult for the small-scale broiler producers to penetrate the vertical organized market and growth. Also, the results show that small-scale producers can deepen their value chain participation through amongst others, procuring production inputs, establishing abattoir and leverage government support collectively to increase their production capacity. The study recommends that small-scale producers form input and market cooperatives to collectively source production inputs and market their produce. In terms of support, small-scale broiler farmers require intensified support programmes to strengthen their production capabilities and entrench access the sustainable market for sustained growth.Item Embargo The exploratory study of psychological experiences of female victims of gender-based violence in Sekhukhune District Municipality(2024-09-06) Murei, Takalani Patricia; Mabasa, M. A.; Mogorosi, L. D.; Budeli, N.Gender based violence in South Africa, (especially on women and young women), is increasing. There is significant increase in those women who are in relationship. However, such relations have strong correlation to the high rates of murder, rape and assault with intend to do grievous body harm, resulting in a high prevalence of women exposed to gender based violence. Social workers are mandated to provide psycho- social support to the victims of gender-based violence and their families. Alternatively, the Victim Empowerment programs Centers (VEP) implements support to victims and survivors of crimes including gender-based violence, as well as their families to deal with the impact of the incident which he/she has experience. VEP also assist victims with management of trauma and ensuring that victims are educated to identify the symptoms of post-traumatic stress as common practice in South Africa, is not without challenges. One significant challenge is the role of support systems within the community. The aim of the study was to explore the psychosocial experiences amongst women exposed to gender-based violence in rural areas of Sekhukhune District. Qualitative approach using an exploratory research design was employed. The population of the study was women who experienced gender-based violence living in rural areas of Sekhukhune District municipality who were attending Victim empowerment services at the Non- Governmental Organization.Convenience sampling was used to select ten (10) women who experienced gender-based violence. Semi-structured interviews, in-depth individual face to face interviews were used to better understand the psychosocial experiences of gender-based violence as well as the role played by the support system within the community which was analysed using thematic analysis.Item Embargo Effect of partial mutton meat substitution with Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea (L.) Verdc.) flour on physicochemical properties, lipid oxidation and sensory acceptability of low-fat patties(2024-09-06) Ramatsetse, K. E.; Ramashia, S. E.; Mashau, M. E.Health concerns regarding fat consumption, as well as shifts in customer preference, have prompted substantial studies into low-fat products. This study examined the nutritional, colour, functional, and antioxidants properties of Bambara groundnut (BGN) flour varieties (cream, brown, and red-coated) grains as well as their influence on the physicochemical properties, lipid oxidation, and sensory acceptability of reduced-fat mutton patties. The patties were formulated with 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10% of BGN flours for each variety, and 100% mutton patties were used as a control. The BGN flours showed significant (p ˂ 0.05) differences in their nutritional composition (except for ash content), colour, functional (excluding the emulsion stability), antioxidant properties. The inclusion of BGN flours significantly increased the fibre (0.00 to 0.79%) and ash (1.16 to 1.99%) contents of the formulated mutton patties. However, moisture, protein contents, and carbohydrates decreased. The cooking yield of the formulated patties significantly increased with values ranging from 76.39 to 86.80% but the diameter decreased. The inclusion of BGN flours significantly increased the lightness, hue angle, colour difference and whiteness of patties. Nevertheless, the redness, yellowness, chroma, and yellowness index of the patties decreased. The hardness and resilience of formulated patties significantly increased with values varying from 16.41 to 17.66 N, and from 0.35 to 0.48 J/J, respectively, whereas the springiness, cohesiveness, and chewiness decreased. The lipid oxidation of formulated mutton patties significantly increased from day 7 to 21 but was still less than that of the control sample within storage days. The sensory properties of formulated patties were not significantly different from the control sample and were above the acceptable score of five. Different types of BGN flour varieties can each be utilised as additives in mutton patties without detrimental effects on the quality parameters of the patties.Item Embargo Comparison of Some Statistical and Machine Learning Models for Continuous Survival Analysis(2024-09-06) Ndou, Sedzani Emanuel; Mulaudzi, T. B.; Bere, A.While statistical models have been traditionally utilized, there is a growing interest in exploring the potential of machine learning techniques. Existing literature shows varying results on their performance which is based on the dateset employed. This study will conduct a comparative evaluation of the predictive accuracy of both statistical and machine learning models for continuous survival analysis utilizing two distinct datasets: time to first alcohol intake and North Carolina recidivism data. LassoCV was used to select variables for both datasets by encouraging limited coefficient estimates. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were utilized to compare the survival distributions among groups of variables incorporated in the model, alongside the logrank test. The proposed methods include the Cox Proportional Hazards, Lasso-regularized Cox, Survival Trees, Random Survival Forest, and Neural Networks. Model performance was evaluated using Integrated Brier score (IBS), Area Under the Curve and Concordance index. Our findings shows consistent dominance of Neural Network (NN) and Random Survival Forest (RSF) models across multiple metrics for both datasets. Specifically, Neural Network demonstrates remarkable performance, closely followed by RSF, CoxPH and CoxLasso models with slightly lower performance, and Survival Tree (ST) consistently lags behind. This study can contribute to advancing knowledge and provides practical guidance for improving survival in recidivism and alcohol intake.