Department of Human Ecology

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Feature Reduction for the Classification of Bruise Damage to Apple Fruit Using a Contactless FT-NIR Spectroscopy with Machine Learning
(MDPI, 202) Isingizwe, F; Hussein, E; Vaccari, M; Umezuruike, L
Spectroscopy data are useful for modelling biological systems such as predicting quality parameters of horticultural products. However, using the wide spectrum of wavelengths is not practical in a production setting. Such data are of high dimensional nature and they tend to result in complex models that are not easily understood. Furthermore, collinearity between different wavelengths dictates that some of the data variables are redundant and may even contribute noise. The use of variable selection methods is one efficient way to obtain an optimal model, andthis was the aim of this work. Taking advantage of a non-contact spectrometer, near infrared spectral data in the range of 800–2500 nm were used to classify bruise damage in three apple cultivars, namely ‘Golden Delicious’, ‘Granny Smith’ and ‘Royal Gala’. Six prominent machine learning classification algorithms were employed, and two variable selection methods were used to determine the most relevant wavelengths for the problem of distinguishing between bruised and non-bruised fruit. The selected wavelengths clustered around 900 nm, 1300 nm, 1500 nm and 1900 nm. The best results were achieved using linear regression and support vector machine based on up to 40 wavelengths: these methods reached precision values in the range of 0.79–0.86, which were all comparable (within error bars) to a classifier based on the entire range of frequencies. The results also provided an open-source based framework that is useful towards the development of multi-spectral applications such as rapid grading of apples based on mechanical damage, and it can also be emulated and applied for other types of defects on fresh produce.
The effect of · iron supplementation on maximal oxygen consumption in boys aged 9 11 years with iron deficiency and anaemia
(University of the Western Cape, 1993) Leach, Lloyd Llewellyn; Maritz, G.
Iron deficiency anaemia is the most common abnormality of the blood in childhood (Karabus 1987). If the quantity of iron lost by the body exceeds iron intake, the body will draw on its iron reserves to counterbalance this deficit. However, the continuance of an iron imbalance will eventually lead to a reduction in body iron stores. Because iron forms an integral component of the oxygen transport mechanism of the body, it is understandable that the functional capacity of this system will be compromised under conditions of iron deficiency. A deficit in oxygen transport capacity will presumably indicate a decreased capacity to persevere in the face of continuing strenuous physical activity. The decrement in physical aerobic working capacity (maximal oxygen consumption) will largely be indicative of the decrease in oxygen transport capacity. Routine haemoglobin determinations carried out in the outpatient department of the Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital in Cape Town showed that many Coloured and African pre-schoolgoing children had abnormally low haemoglobin levels which occurred as a manifestation of iron deficiency anaemia (Lanzkowsky 1961). In another similar but more recent study also in the Cape Peninsula, Lamparelli et al. (1988) showed that the prevalence of iron deficiency anaemia in Coloured and African children was 15.5 % and 36.0 %, respectively . In this study, the condition of iron deficiency anaemia was particularly pronounced in urban Coloured children. In both these studies done in the Western Cape, the majority of Coloured children were classified as coming from the lowest socioeconomic income group in the community. In the majority of studies concerning the relationship between socioeconomic status and iron deficiency anaemia, it is often stated that low socioeconomic circumstances are significantly correlated to low blood haemoglobin levels (Expert Scientific Working Group 1985; Lanzkowsky 1959; Lanzkowsky 1961; World Health Organization 1972; World Health Organization 1975).
Women and men's perception of the effect of unemployment of the male partner on gender role perception, family communication and relational power within the family
(University of the Western Cape, 1998) Nicolaai, Celeste; Daniels, Priscilla
The research focused on 60 coloured, Afrikaans-speaking men and women residing in Bell ville South who completed a structured questionnaire and open-ended interview questions. Their perceptions held on the influence of male unemployment on family relations with specific reference to gender role perception, relational satisfaction, communication, decision making, finances and labour within the family were investigated. Unemployment of the male partner was found to have no statistically significant differences for the manner in which males and females perceive their gender roles, finances and labour distribution within the family. Statistically significant differences were found for the manner in which males/and females perceive decision-making and communication within the family when the male partner is unemployed. The results revealed that unemployment does not have an influence on role perception and that the respondents uphold a traditional role perception. Decision making was not male dominated, as more egalitarian decision were taken. The respondents expressed combination gender roles with regard to management of finances and appeared to be satisfied with family and partner relations. The minority of respondents who experienced problems with communication attributed this to the consequences of being unemployed. Social agencies need to offer services to empower families to deal with the affects of unemployment on family life to ensure the survival of families during these challenging periods. A multi-disciplinary approach, provided by a team of professionals is the basis for recommendations for proposed support programme development, access and further research.
Women and men's perception of the effect of unemployment of the male partner on gender role perception, family communication and relational power within the family
(University of the Western Cape, 1998) Nicolaai, Celeste; Daniels, Priscilla
The research focused on 60 coloured, Afrikaans-speaking men and women residing in Bellville South who completed a structured questionnaire and open-ended interview questions. Their perceptions held on the influence of male unemployment on family relations with specific reference to gender role perception, relational satisfaction, communication, decision making, finances and labour within the family were investigated. Unemployment of the male partner was found to have no statistically significant differences for the manner in which males and females perceive their gender roles, finances and labour distribution within the family. Statistically significant differences were found for the manner in which males and females perceive decision-making and communication within the family when the male partner is unemployed. The results revealed that unemployment does not have an influence on role perception and that the respondents uphold a traditional role perception. Decision making was not male dominated, as more egalitarian decision were taken. The respondents expressed combination gender roles with regard to management of finances and appeared to be satisfied with family and partner relations. The minority of respondents who experienced problems with communication attributed this to the consequences of being unemployed. The survival of families during these challenging periods. A Social agencies need to offer services to empower families to deal with the affects of unemployment on family life to ensure multi-disciplinary approach, provided by a team of professionals is the basis for recommendations for proposed support I programme development, access and further research.
A study investigating the contraceptive knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and practices of coloured unmarried pregnant teenagers
(University of the Western Cape, 1998) Cupido, Xena; Daniels, Priscilla; Dept. of Human Ecology; Faculty of Community and Health Sciences
A study investigating the contraceptive knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and practices of coloured unmarried pregnant teenagers.
Intestinal parasite infestation and the anthropometric status of primary school children in the Delft area, Western Cape
(University of the Western Cape, Main Library, 2002) Nel, Elsabe; Kunneke, Ernie
Infestation by intestinal helminths is a disease that is chronic, insidious and usually silent. Acute signs and symptoms are not characteristic, nor is the disease manifested as sudden outbreaks. Instead, it is typically associated with poverty, being a disease of the poor and socioeconomically deprived and therefore it is often ignored and neglected. Infestation by intestinal helminthes and malnutrition usually occur together in the same areas, leading to a double burden in the already deprived. Reports in the literature on the effects of treating children for intestinal parasites vary widely. Some studies found no beneficial effects, while others report significant improvements in nutritional status, growth anemia, cognitive function school attendance and behavior. Previous studies in the Western Cape have shown infestation between 7tr/o and Wo among school children. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence and the relationship between malnutrition the prevalence of worm infestation and the intensity of infestation in an economically deprived area in the Western Cape, in primary school children. A cross-sectional study of 235 childrern randomly selected from four schools was undertaken. Faecal specimens were examined by microscopy using standardized methods, and anthropometrical measurements were taken. In this study the mean prevalence for parasite infestation was 47.7%. No relationship was detected between the anthropometrical status and infestation by intestinal parasites. The prevalence for stunting in school 3 (the informal settlement) was23o/o,75ohwere infected with parasites and 25ohinfeded with protozoa \the highest for all the schools. The possibility of a prospective interaction was not determined.
The influence of peer, community and religion on adolescent substance use in the Cape Metropolitan area
(University of the Western Cape, 2004) Gana, Thandeka Christine; Amoateng, A.Y Prof; Institute for Child and Family Development; Faculty of Community and Health Sciences
The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of peer, community and religious influences on alcohol and tobacco use among high school adolescents from three different dominant groups of South Africa i.e. African, coloured and white adolescents. The investigations were based on two perceived major factors such as their familiy structure and their family's socio-economic status, which may either increase or decrease the likelihood of adolescent substance use.
HIV/AIDS knowledge, attitudes and risky sexual behaviours of college students at Nazarene Teacher Training College in Swaziland: A descriptive study
(University of the Western Cape, 2005) Simelane, Nomcebo Barbara; Daniels, Priscilla; Dept. of Human Ecology; Faculty of Community and Health Sciences
The aim of this study was to describe the knowledge and attitudes of college students of the Manzini Nazarene Teacher Training College with regard to HIV/AIDS. The aim was to identify risky sexual practices of the college students as well, which may require redress in order to enhance their effectiveness in combating the spread of HIV.
The association between the body mass index of first-year female university students and their weight-related perceptions and practices, psychological health, physical activity and other physical health indicators
(Cambridge University Press, 2006) Cilliers, Janetta; Senekal, Marjanne; Kunneke, Ernesta
To investigate the association between the weight status of first-year female students (FYFS) and various weight management-related characteristics to identify possible components of a weight management programme for students. Mean (^standard deviation (SD)) body mass index (BMI) of the FYFS was 21.8 ^ 2.6 kg m22 , with 7.2% being underweight, 81.9% normal-weight, 10.0% overweight and 0.8% obese. Underweight, normal-weight and overweight students differed with regard to their perception of their weight (P , 0.001), weight goals (P , 0.001) and previous weight-loss practices (P , 0.001). Mean ^ SD score on the 26-item Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) was 8.5 ^ 9.0 with 8.4% classified as high scorers. Mean ^ SD score on the 34-item Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ) was 87.7 ^ 32.2, with 76.1% classified as low, 11.9% as medium and 11.9% as high scorers. The self-concept questionnaire indicated that 36.7% had a high, 43.9% a medium and 19.4% a low self-concept. Higher BMI correlated with a higher BSQ score (P , 0.001), a lower self-concept (P ¼ 0.029) and a higher EAT-26 score (P , 0.001). Smoking was prevalent amongst 13.1% of students, and 51.2% used vitamin and/or mineral supplements. Students who quitted smoking had higher (P ¼ 0.006) BMI (22.7 ^ 2.9 kg m22 ) than those who never smoked before (21.6 ^ 2.5 kg m22 ).
Nutrition, oral health and the young child
(Wiley Open Access, 2007) Naidoo, Sudeshni; Myburgh, Neil
Oral health is integral to general health and essential to well-being and quality of life. Socio-behavioural and environmental factors play a significant role in oral disease and oral health.Dental caries is a global disease with few populations exempt from its effects. In developingcountries, as development increases so does dental caries and children are at the forefront of thedisease disadvantage. There is a growing need to identify high caries risk groups accurately tocommence prevention from a young age.The effect of early intervention in childhood on generaland dental health with both population and high-risk approaches also needs examining. As aneducational tool, the paediatric food-based dietary guidelines may play a significant role innutrition and oral health interventions. This paper provides information on nutrition, includingaccess to fluoride and use of sugar.Oral health concerns,such as early childhood caries,which areimportant for the young child, are also discussed.
Perceptions of service delivery by the Philippi Trust to the HIV/AIDS support groups in the Helderberg Region
(University of the Western Cape, 2008) Abels, Charlene E.; Albertyn, Ruth M.; Dept. of Human Ecology; Faculty of Arts
This descriptive study investigated the utilisation of and perceptions about service delivery by Philippi Trust in the HIV/AIDS support groups in the Helderberg region. A questionnaire and individual interviews were applied to gather the data from the HIV/AIDS support group members and their facilitators. The quantitative data analysis was done, using the Statistical Packaging for Social science (SPSS) aiming to determine the descriptive statistics of the database and variables. The qualitative analysis was conducted using thematic analysis. Anonymity was assured but complete confidentiality was not possible as the investigator had knowledge of the HIV status of the study population, however no names appeared in the research report.
Exploring the experiences of refugees in the Western Cape, South Africa with regard to their integration into society
(UWC, 2008) Mwambetania, Tusekile; Daniels, Priscilla
Forced migration is a serious problem worldwide and it is always associated with political, ethnic or violent conflict accompanied by intensive human rights abuses. Africa has the largest number of refugees (more than 15 million) compared to other regions. Many Africans are forced to abandon their homes and go into exile because of ethnic conflicts, civil wars and ongoing violence which in turn cause millions of refugees to be separated from their families and loved ones. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of refugees in the Western Cape province with regard to their integration into the society. The objectives of the study were (1) to explore the experiences of refugees in the Western Cape, South Africa; (2) to explore the link between their experiences and integration into the South African society. This research employed an exploratory study design that was conducted qualitatively. Semi-structured interviews with refugees were conducted with the aim of understanding personal experiences and challenges that refugees face. The population of the study was refugees who visited two of the refugee centres in Cape Town. A purposive sampling method was used. A total of ten refugees were interviewed and a questionnaire was used to collect the demographic characteristics of the participants. Data was analyzed by thematic analysis method where the data was coded and categorized and discussed according to the aims and objectives of the study in relation to previous studies. The major themes identified were employment and financial independence, education, health, language, culture, emotional sustainability, support and xenophobia. The results of the study were made available to refugees and the centres participating in the study. The main findings were that most refugees are educated and have skills and relevant work experience yet they feel dissatisfied in their current work place because they are underutilized and not using their skills optimally. Emotional sustainability and integration is often challenged and refugees rely on spiritual faith to face their hardships. Issues of cultural differences and language gaps contribute to the lack of well being. Accessing treatment in public health care facilities was described as inadequate by refugees. Xenophobia contributes to the problems of integration. Participants felt to some extent their difficulties could be reduced if proper intervention could be made by the government in terms of support. The main recommendations resulting from the research were 1) government and non governmental institutions should work together to improve services delivery to refugees for integration purposes; 2) policy intervention is needed from the government to address the problems of refugees and 3) nongovernmental organizations should extend their services to community development to improve the interaction of refugees in adopted countries.
An investigation into the attitudes, perceptions and factors affecting the implementation of the consumer studies teaching portfolio in the Western Cape Education Department
(University of the Western Cape, 2008) Cornelissen, Liezl Odette; Cornelissen, Judith; Dept. of Human Ecology; Faculty of Arts
The main objective of this study was to investigate the attitudes, perceptions and factors affecting the implementation of the Consumer Studies teaching portfolio in the Educational Management Developmental Centres (EMDCs) of the Western Cape Education Department (WCED). The sub-objectives were firstly to assess the teachers' attitudes toward the Consumer Studies teaching portfolio as an assessment tool. A second aim was to describe teachers’ perceptions of assessment methods in the Consumer Studies teaching portfolio, while a third was to identify the factors that affect the development of the said portfolio.
An investigation into the attitudes, perceptions and factors affecting the implementation of the consumer studies teaching portfolio in the Western Cape Education Department
(University of the Western Cape, 2008) Cornelissen, Liezl Odette; Cornelissen, Judith
Assessment is a critical element for achieving the desired outcomes in out comes based education (OBE). In the subject area of Consumer Studies each teacher is required to compile a teaching portfolio about the assessment and classroom activities conducted in a given year. However, there is a paucity of research in the field of portfolio development for teaching Consumer Studies in the secondary school. The main objective of this study was to investigate the attitudes, perceptions and factors affecting the implementation of the Consumer Studies teaching portfolio in the Educational Management Developmental Centres (EMDCs) of the Western Cape Education Department (WCED). The sub-objectives were firstly to assess the teachers' attitudes toward the Consumer Studies teaching portfolio as an assessment tool. A second aim was to describe teachers' perceptions of assessment methods in the Consumer Studies teaching portfolio, while a third was to identify the factors that affect the development of the said portfolio. A structured questionnaire was used to determine the attitudes, perceptions and factors affecting the implementation of the Consumer Studies teaching portfolio. The questionnaire contained three sections, the first of which related to the participants' demographic information. The second section comprised three parts. The first dealt with factors that influenced the choice of the assessment method used in Consumer Studies. The second part focused on the participants' attitudes toward the assessment process, and the third on teachers' perceptions of constraints or barriers that impact on the assessment process. Section three centred around factors that relate to the process of compiling the teaching portfolio, such as. skills required for this purpose, activities that need to be reconsidered in the course of compiling the portfolio, and the benefits of the teaching portfolio as such. The SAS statistical package was used for an analysis of the data in this study. Therefore various statistical methods were applied. The independent variables were illustrated by using frequency tables. The non-parametric Friedman's test was used for analysis, because the data was not on an interval scale, and was therefore ranked. The pairwise comparison test was used to determine the association between factors for each assessment method used in the Consumer Studies teaching portfolio. Results were achieved by applying these methods of data analysis. Withregard to demographics, the mean age of the teachers in the study were female and 40, holding a Higher Diploma in the Education of Home Economics !Needlework. The results of the factors influencing the selection of an assessment method showed that no single factor could be linked to a particular assessment method. There are several factors that influence the selection of one specific assessment method. Choosing the learner portfolio as an assessment method is influenced by various factors such as planning for instruction, diagnosing student weaknesses, monitoring student progress, communicating student achievement, motivating students and assigning grades. These factors are selected among the assessment methods for observation-based, test-based and task-based assessment. The teachers displayed a positive attitude toward the assessment process, because they rated the assessment process as valuable, successful, efficient, important, good, fair, reputable, flexible and relaxed. There was a large percentage of teachers who felt that the assessment process was tense instead of relaxed. The teachers did not perceive any of the constraints or barriers as having a negative impact on the assessment process. The factors relating to the teaching portfolio included all the skills, activities and benefits required for compiling a teaching portfolio. Those demanding particular attention are self-reflection, journal writing, writing a teaching philosophy and self evaluation. Recommendations offered in this study are that training programmes be run for preservice and in-service teachers so that teachers can feel more confident when compiling a teaching portfolio. The National Department of Education should provide structure and assessment criteria to guide teachers in the development of a teaching portfolio. Published material about teaching portfolios should be made available to teachers. The teaching portfolio is a valuable assessment tool that can be used not only in the development of the teacher's teaching strategy, but also for determining a teacher's strengths and weaknesses m his or her professional career.
Experiences of parenting learners with regards to learner pregnancy policy
(University of the Western Cape, 2010) Matshotyana, Zanele; Daniels, Priscilla; Dept. of Human Ecology; Faculty of Community and Health Sciences
A qualitative research design in the form of a case study was employed. A quantitative method was also utilized in the form of a short questionnaire for demographic purposes in order to provide a general description of the sample. A purposive sample of 10 parenting learners, and two teachers was selected. The study was conducted in a Senior Secondary School that is located in Khayelitsha, a historically disadvantaged community in the Western Cape. Semi structured interviews of approximately ninety minutes each were conducted and audio taped. A thematic analysis was used to analyse the audio taped data from the transcribed interviews. The key findings from this research illustrate that there is a misunderstanding and miscommunication between teachers and learners about learner pregnancy. Pregnant learners hide pregnancy from the teachers to avoid comments and from being expelled from the school and consequently do not get any support from the school. On the other hand, the findings indicate that if the teachers were aware of their pregnancy and trained to deal with learner pregnancy, these learners would be supported by the school. Some of the recommendations were to develop the capacity of the teachers so that the school is able to provide an adolescent-professional-friendly service. A safe non-judgmental environment is required so that the learner is able to disclose her pregnancy status as early as possible to ensure that they receive the necessary support.
Challenges experienced by community organization in the provision of HIV/AIDS home based care
(University of the Western Cape, 2010) Ramuhaheli, Rendani Marcia; Erasmus, C.J.; Dept. of Human Ecology
In many developing countries including South Africa, there is an overwhelming number of people infected with HIV/AIDS in the hospitals, which the health care workers are unable to cope with. Therefore, an urgent need to develop alternative community based activities such as support groups, home based care programs and placement of orphans, for the provision of social health care services to the HIV client, arises. However, a deeper understanding of the challenges facing community organizations when providing home based care is crucial and necessary in order to formulate effective and relevant care services. The aim of the study was to explore the challenges faced by Umtha elanga Community Organization (UWCO) in the provision of HIV/AIDS home based care. The objectives of the study were to assess the current home based care of the UWCO and to explore the challenges that community based organizations have to face when providing care services to people being infected and affected by HIV/AIDS. The research design undertaken was the case study of UWCO. The qualitative approach with in-depth interviews with the management staff and home based caregivers was utilized. Data analysis began immediately after the interviews by transcribing and translating the audio-taped data. Thematic analysis was used in which data was coded and categorized. The findings of the research indicated that the home based care programme assists PLWHA clients in their natural home setting. All home based carers work voluntary and get supported by the organization as ell as by the department of social development and health such as the social workers. Finances appear to be, both for the organization and the home based carers, a huge hindrance. Research indicated that the organization experiences various challenges to provide the service to their community. It is recommended that Government must ensure that home based care workers get recognition, credit and support for their valuable contribution. Training for HBC employers needs to be extended to expose and add more skills. This will ensure that they are equipped for their tasks. Home based care workers must become registered and paid better salaries by the government.
The relationship between an Adult Basic Education and Training (ABET) literacy program and women's lives in Semi-urban context, in Cape Peninsula
(University of the Western Cape, 2010) Beauzac, Christolene Bernardine; Cornelissen, Judith; Dept. of Human Ecology; Faculty of Community and Health Sciences
The research employed a qualitative research paradigm. The ethnographic approach was used to conduct the research. Data collection was done though various ethnographic techniques, classroom observation, in-depth interviews and document analysis. The population was 85 women who participated in a Adult Basic Education and Training programme in Eersterivier in the Cape Peninsula area a questionnaire was used to collect demographic information of the participants Data was analysed by thematic analysis and coded, categorised and discussed according to the aim and objectives of the study in relation to previous studies The main findings were why exploring the existing literacy practice women were depended on others for literacy assistance, which made them avoid literacy events and become vulnerable in this process to cope with the everyday life.
Adolescent female learners experience and knowledge of human rights at a secondary school in a Sub – district of Cape Town, South Africa
(2010) Swartz, Deirdre; Daniels, P.
Human Rights have been the focus of much debate in recent years. It is read about in biblical contexts and extensively written about and researched globally,nationally and locally. South Africa is especially recognised as a country trying to adhere to human rights recommendations since after experiencing years of “apartheid” and human rights violations. South Africa is proud to introduce a sixteen-year democracy and a constitution respected by the global society.As South Africa embarks on a period of transformation, women who were historically marginalised are encouraged through education to demand their right to know that their human rights be recognised. The adolescent female in her educational environment is socialized to recognise her basic human rights and, through education,she is able to embrace them and demand that they be upheld.The adolescent female learner within the South African context is the focus of this study as we explore her knowledge and experiences’ of human rights at school. The study also attempts to explore the schools role in providing adequate facilitation for the adolescent female learner to gain sufficient knowledge about her basic human rights.Both quantitative and qualitative research methodology were used in this study. A sample of 12 adolescent female learners was purposively selected. The study was conducted at a Secondary School in the Central Sub-district of Cape Town in the Western Cape. The questionnaire was standardized by testing the questions on learners and the Life Orientation educator of another school. A thematic analysis was used to analyse the audio taped data from the interviews.The key findings were that the adolescent female perceives human rights as being equal and being human amongst other humans but that their human rights are violated at school. It was also found that knowledge about human rights changed the attitudes and behaviour of the adolescent female learners in creating higher self confidence, the ability to stand up for themselves, have a positive self image and an understanding and appreciation for other cultures.The recommendations from this study includes: that the adolescent female learners need to internalize their basic human rights and then demand that these rights be upheld. The integration of human rights concepts within other learning areas or subjects in the school curriculum were additional recommendations.
Nutritional management after colonic interposition
(MedPharm Publications, 2011) Basson, Abigail
During oesophagal reconstruction adequate nutrition must be maintained. The article provides an account of the feeding programme and procedures followed in the case of a patient that had an emergency gastrectomy, splenectomy and oesophagectomy.
Nutrition management in the adult Crohn's disease patient
(MedPharm Publications, 2012) Basson, Abigail
Malnutrition, nutrient deficiencies and osteoporosis are common in Crohn’s disease patients regardless of disease activity. While the role of diet in the pathogenesis of the disease remains inconclusive, upon diagnosis nutrition therapy plays an integral role throughout patient care. Successful nutrition intervention involves appropriate nutritional assessment, supplemental nutrition and individualized counseling and support.

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