Recognition and development of the Irish Draught horse
- Authors: Lewis, Colin A
- Date: 2005
- Language: English
- Type: Book chapter
- Identifier: vital:6728 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007163
- Description: The number of horses in Ireland had shown remarkable consistency from 1861 until just before 1951. Between the end of the Second World War and 1951 there was a rapid decrease in the number of working horses, and the rate of the decrease accelerated during the decade of the 1950s and the early 1960s. Throughout the 1960s popular emphasis was placed on mechanisation, as if there were no role for the horse as a working animal. Even the production of pleasure horses seems to have been initially regarded as of little value. The 1970s were a sad period for both light and heavy draught horses in County Cork, as in the rest of Ireland. With increased mechanisation, the market for heavy draught animals which had previously dominated transport in the city of Cork, came to an end. There was a great danger that the Irish Draught would soon become extinct, so the formation of the Irish Draught Horse Society in 1976 was of great importance for the development of the Irish Draught as a breed. In 1982 this society published the "Breed Standard and Guideline", the first time that an official standard had been published for an Irish Draught. Despite various schemes during the 1980s and 1990s designed to increase the number and improve the quality of the Irish Draught horse population, it is, at the beginning of the 21st Century, one of the world's endangered breeds.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Lewis, Colin A
- Date: 2005
- Language: English
- Type: Book chapter
- Identifier: vital:6728 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007163
- Description: The number of horses in Ireland had shown remarkable consistency from 1861 until just before 1951. Between the end of the Second World War and 1951 there was a rapid decrease in the number of working horses, and the rate of the decrease accelerated during the decade of the 1950s and the early 1960s. Throughout the 1960s popular emphasis was placed on mechanisation, as if there were no role for the horse as a working animal. Even the production of pleasure horses seems to have been initially regarded as of little value. The 1970s were a sad period for both light and heavy draught horses in County Cork, as in the rest of Ireland. With increased mechanisation, the market for heavy draught animals which had previously dominated transport in the city of Cork, came to an end. There was a great danger that the Irish Draught would soon become extinct, so the formation of the Irish Draught Horse Society in 1976 was of great importance for the development of the Irish Draught as a breed. In 1982 this society published the "Breed Standard and Guideline", the first time that an official standard had been published for an Irish Draught. Despite various schemes during the 1980s and 1990s designed to increase the number and improve the quality of the Irish Draught horse population, it is, at the beginning of the 21st Century, one of the world's endangered breeds.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2005
Late glacial and holocene palaeoclimatology of the Drakensberg of the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Lewis, Colin A
- Date: 2005
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6692 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006727
- Description: Eight climatic events during the Holocene are evidenced in the East Cape Drakensberg by fluvial, archaeological and palynological deposits. Flood plain deposition under relatively moist conditions occurred in the Early Holocene, before ca. 7000 BP. Semi-arid conditions with limited fluvial activity dominated the Mid Holocene until ca. 3200 BP. Alternating flood plain erosion and deposition occurred in the Late Holocene. Four climatic events, for which there is palynological and limited archaeological evidence, have been identified in the Late Glacial.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Lewis, Colin A
- Date: 2005
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6692 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006727
- Description: Eight climatic events during the Holocene are evidenced in the East Cape Drakensberg by fluvial, archaeological and palynological deposits. Flood plain deposition under relatively moist conditions occurred in the Early Holocene, before ca. 7000 BP. Semi-arid conditions with limited fluvial activity dominated the Mid Holocene until ca. 3200 BP. Alternating flood plain erosion and deposition occurred in the Late Holocene. Four climatic events, for which there is palynological and limited archaeological evidence, have been identified in the Late Glacial.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
Glasbury muscle men
- Authors: Lewis, Colin A
- Date: 2005
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6175 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1012368
- Description: Colin Lewis was Professor of Geography at Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa from 1989 until his retirement at the end of 2007. In 1990, with the strong support of the incumbent Vice-Chancellor, Dr Derek Henderson, he instigated the Certificate in Change Ringing (Church Bell Ringing) in the Rhodes University Department of Music and Musicology - the first such course to be offered in Africa. Since that date he has lectured in the basic theory, and taught the practice of change ringing. He is the Ringing Master of the Cathedral of St Michael and St George, Grahamstown, South Africa.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Lewis, Colin A
- Date: 2005
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6175 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1012368
- Description: Colin Lewis was Professor of Geography at Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa from 1989 until his retirement at the end of 2007. In 1990, with the strong support of the incumbent Vice-Chancellor, Dr Derek Henderson, he instigated the Certificate in Change Ringing (Church Bell Ringing) in the Rhodes University Department of Music and Musicology - the first such course to be offered in Africa. Since that date he has lectured in the basic theory, and taught the practice of change ringing. He is the Ringing Master of the Cathedral of St Michael and St George, Grahamstown, South Africa.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2005
The glaciations of Wales and adjacent areas, Introduction and Chapter 8: The upper Wye and USK regions
- Lewis, Colin A, Thomas, G S P
- Authors: Lewis, Colin A , Thomas, G S P
- Date: 2005
- Language: English
- Type: Book chapter
- Identifier: vital:6727 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007160
- Description: [From the preface]: The landscapes of Wales and adjacent areas have been profoundly influenced by glaciation. Much attention has been paid to the origins of the Welsh landscape, and, especially, to its morphology. This book, like its predecessor, "The glaciations of Wales and adjoining regions", published in 1970, aims to encourage and guide further research into the glacial history of Wales and its borderlands. [From Chapter 8]: Mid-Wales was probably glaciated on at least two occasions during the Pleistocene. The glacial sediments and landforms discussed in this chapter appear to be of Late Devensian age. The scale of glaciation during the Late Devensian varied from ice-sheet to cirque glacier in size. During glaciation the mid-Wales ice-sheet shrank to become two major valley glaciers, those of the Wye and the Usk. The age of deglaciation, especially in the Wye drainage basin, is a matter for debate and much absolute dating is still needed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Lewis, Colin A , Thomas, G S P
- Date: 2005
- Language: English
- Type: Book chapter
- Identifier: vital:6727 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007160
- Description: [From the preface]: The landscapes of Wales and adjacent areas have been profoundly influenced by glaciation. Much attention has been paid to the origins of the Welsh landscape, and, especially, to its morphology. This book, like its predecessor, "The glaciations of Wales and adjoining regions", published in 1970, aims to encourage and guide further research into the glacial history of Wales and its borderlands. [From Chapter 8]: Mid-Wales was probably glaciated on at least two occasions during the Pleistocene. The glacial sediments and landforms discussed in this chapter appear to be of Late Devensian age. The scale of glaciation during the Late Devensian varied from ice-sheet to cirque glacier in size. During glaciation the mid-Wales ice-sheet shrank to become two major valley glaciers, those of the Wye and the Usk. The age of deglaciation, especially in the Wye drainage basin, is a matter for debate and much absolute dating is still needed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
Progress in ringing : an African experience
- Authors: Lewis, Colin A
- Date: 2005
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6172 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1012363
- Description: Colin Lewis was Professor of Geography at Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa from 1989 until his retirement at the end of 2007. In 1990, with the strong support of the incumbent Vice-Chancellor, Dr Derek Henderson, he instigated the Certificate in Change Ringing (Church Bell Ringing) in the Rhodes University Department of Music and Musicology - the first such course to be offered in Africa. Since that date he has lectured in the basic theory, and taught the practice of change ringing. He is the Ringing Master of the Cathedral of St Michael and St George, Grahamstown, South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Lewis, Colin A
- Date: 2005
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6172 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1012363
- Description: Colin Lewis was Professor of Geography at Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa from 1989 until his retirement at the end of 2007. In 1990, with the strong support of the incumbent Vice-Chancellor, Dr Derek Henderson, he instigated the Certificate in Change Ringing (Church Bell Ringing) in the Rhodes University Department of Music and Musicology - the first such course to be offered in Africa. Since that date he has lectured in the basic theory, and taught the practice of change ringing. He is the Ringing Master of the Cathedral of St Michael and St George, Grahamstown, South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
Situated culture, ethics and new learning theory: emerging perspectives in environmental education research
- Authors: Lotz-Sisitka, Heila
- Date: 2005
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6095 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008617
- Description: Celebrating the 8th International Invitational Research and Development Seminar. This edition of the EEASA Journal celebrates the hosting of the 8th International Invitational Research and Development Seminar on Environmental and Health Education in South Africa in March 2005. The International Invitational Research and Development Seminars are ‘special events’ in the field of environmental and health education research. They are characterised by their democratic, deliberative nature, and by their intent to scope innovation and methodological issues. First established some years ago in Copenhagen, Denmark, these seminars have provided an evolving international forum for researchers interested in research methodology to meet and frame new themes, trends and issues arising in the field of environmental education and health education research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Lotz-Sisitka, Heila
- Date: 2005
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6095 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008617
- Description: Celebrating the 8th International Invitational Research and Development Seminar. This edition of the EEASA Journal celebrates the hosting of the 8th International Invitational Research and Development Seminar on Environmental and Health Education in South Africa in March 2005. The International Invitational Research and Development Seminars are ‘special events’ in the field of environmental and health education research. They are characterised by their democratic, deliberative nature, and by their intent to scope innovation and methodological issues. First established some years ago in Copenhagen, Denmark, these seminars have provided an evolving international forum for researchers interested in research methodology to meet and frame new themes, trends and issues arising in the field of environmental education and health education research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
Reflections on the ‘3rd World Environmental Education Congress: Educational pathways towards sustainability’, Italy, 2005
- Authors: Lotz-Sisitka, Heila
- Date: 2005
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6096 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008619
- Description: Conference Theme: The congress theme ‘Educational pathways towards sustainability’ foregrounded the current ‘state of play’ in environmental education / education for sustainability, at the start of the UN Decade of Education for Sustainable Development (DESD), and drew attention to the role of education in creating pathways towards sustainability. Mario Solomone, convenor of the congress, in his orientation to the congress describes the congress as being about ‘cultural changes and cultural forces for change’, highlighting the role of education, training and communication in redirecting values, knowledge and behaviour to construct a human society ‘that is fairer and more aware of the equilibrium of a beautiful and fragile planet’ (Salomone, 2005: 6). To facilitate deliberations during the conference a set of interrelated themes were established which included: communication and the environment; paths to sustainability; research and assessment in environmental education; sustainable education; training the trainers; community awareness; promoting participation and governance and creating a network; economics and ecology; environment and health; farming and related issues; ethics; and emotional involvements. These congress themes, together with an impressive array of keynote papers kept congress participants actively engaged with the question of the DESD.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Lotz-Sisitka, Heila
- Date: 2005
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6096 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008619
- Description: Conference Theme: The congress theme ‘Educational pathways towards sustainability’ foregrounded the current ‘state of play’ in environmental education / education for sustainability, at the start of the UN Decade of Education for Sustainable Development (DESD), and drew attention to the role of education in creating pathways towards sustainability. Mario Solomone, convenor of the congress, in his orientation to the congress describes the congress as being about ‘cultural changes and cultural forces for change’, highlighting the role of education, training and communication in redirecting values, knowledge and behaviour to construct a human society ‘that is fairer and more aware of the equilibrium of a beautiful and fragile planet’ (Salomone, 2005: 6). To facilitate deliberations during the conference a set of interrelated themes were established which included: communication and the environment; paths to sustainability; research and assessment in environmental education; sustainable education; training the trainers; community awareness; promoting participation and governance and creating a network; economics and ecology; environment and health; farming and related issues; ethics; and emotional involvements. These congress themes, together with an impressive array of keynote papers kept congress participants actively engaged with the question of the DESD.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
A case study of stakeholders' perceptions of the management implications of the discipline provisions of the 1996 Schools Act in a rural Eastern Cape high school
- Authors: Luggya, Daniel
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: High school students -- Discipline -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Discipline of children -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School discipline -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Corporal punishment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School discipline -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1897 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006156
- Description: South Africa's education management system has undergone a long history of transformation from the promulgation of the Bantu Education Act of 1953 to the realisation of democracy, and in this context, the South Mrican Schools Act (SASA) of l996. Apartheid legislation and the new democratic legislation have had a profound impact on the education leadership and management of schools, in which authoritarian management practices have been replaced by democratic management practices. However, democratic management practices have not yet had a significant effect in the leadership and management of schools, especially in the schools of previously disadvantaged areas. This thesis seeks to examine perceptions held by education stakeholders in the light of the rights of students as stipulated in the discipline provisions of the Schools Act of 1996, in one of the rural high schools in the Northern Region of the Eastern Cape Province. One of the most important discipline provisions is the ban on corporal punishment in schools. My intention in carrying out this research was not to generalise my findings but to understand the experiences and perceptions of the stakeholders in this school regarding the discipline provisions of the SASA. The data suggest that authoritarian education practices, especially corporal punishment, are still a factor in the maintenance of student discipline in this rural school. Stakeholders still believe in the use of corporal punishment as the only way of maintaining discipline and an orderly environment for teaching and learning. Such beliefs, assumptions and values concerning the use of corporal punishment are held by the principal, teachers, students and parents and have not changed since 1996. Beliefs, assumptions and values on the exclusive use of power by the principal on issues of suspension and expulsion are still being held by the above stakeholders in the school. The vision of the SASA that schools become autonomous institutions with democratic leadership and management practices does not seem to be practical because of the centralisation of power in the hands of the Provincial Head of the Education Department. This centralisation of power denies the principal and other stakeholders of the school the power to decide on crucial matters like the expulsion of misbehaving students, because it is the provincial Head who decides on the seriousness of offences committed by misbehaving students and subsequent expulsions. Apart from the location of power in the Provincial Head of the Education Department, the stakeholders of this school are also powerless on expulsion of students, or any other form of punishment because of the implication of the "right" to education in the Bill of Rights in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. The education department has to devise programmes that change the beliefs and assumptions of stakeholders on corporal punishment and decision-making on expulsions and suspensions. Unfortunately corporal punishment persists because parents use it in the home and support its use in school. Programmes on alternatives to corporal punishment are required for the smooth implementation of the SASA.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Luggya, Daniel
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: High school students -- Discipline -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Discipline of children -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School discipline -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Corporal punishment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School discipline -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1897 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006156
- Description: South Africa's education management system has undergone a long history of transformation from the promulgation of the Bantu Education Act of 1953 to the realisation of democracy, and in this context, the South Mrican Schools Act (SASA) of l996. Apartheid legislation and the new democratic legislation have had a profound impact on the education leadership and management of schools, in which authoritarian management practices have been replaced by democratic management practices. However, democratic management practices have not yet had a significant effect in the leadership and management of schools, especially in the schools of previously disadvantaged areas. This thesis seeks to examine perceptions held by education stakeholders in the light of the rights of students as stipulated in the discipline provisions of the Schools Act of 1996, in one of the rural high schools in the Northern Region of the Eastern Cape Province. One of the most important discipline provisions is the ban on corporal punishment in schools. My intention in carrying out this research was not to generalise my findings but to understand the experiences and perceptions of the stakeholders in this school regarding the discipline provisions of the SASA. The data suggest that authoritarian education practices, especially corporal punishment, are still a factor in the maintenance of student discipline in this rural school. Stakeholders still believe in the use of corporal punishment as the only way of maintaining discipline and an orderly environment for teaching and learning. Such beliefs, assumptions and values concerning the use of corporal punishment are held by the principal, teachers, students and parents and have not changed since 1996. Beliefs, assumptions and values on the exclusive use of power by the principal on issues of suspension and expulsion are still being held by the above stakeholders in the school. The vision of the SASA that schools become autonomous institutions with democratic leadership and management practices does not seem to be practical because of the centralisation of power in the hands of the Provincial Head of the Education Department. This centralisation of power denies the principal and other stakeholders of the school the power to decide on crucial matters like the expulsion of misbehaving students, because it is the provincial Head who decides on the seriousness of offences committed by misbehaving students and subsequent expulsions. Apart from the location of power in the Provincial Head of the Education Department, the stakeholders of this school are also powerless on expulsion of students, or any other form of punishment because of the implication of the "right" to education in the Bill of Rights in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. The education department has to devise programmes that change the beliefs and assumptions of stakeholders on corporal punishment and decision-making on expulsions and suspensions. Unfortunately corporal punishment persists because parents use it in the home and support its use in school. Programmes on alternatives to corporal punishment are required for the smooth implementation of the SASA.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
Methodological Decisions in Context: The dilemmas and challenges of novice African scholars
- Lupele, Justin, Mwingi, Mweru, Kinyanjui, Felistus, Kimani, Joyce, Kisamba, Christine
- Authors: Lupele, Justin , Mwingi, Mweru , Kinyanjui, Felistus , Kimani, Joyce , Kisamba, Christine
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/373734 , vital:66717 , xlink:href="https://www.ajol.info/index.php/sajee/article/view/122698"
- Description: This paper emerges out of a panel discussion during a PhD week and subsequent 8th International Environmental Education Invitation Seminar held at Rhodes University in 2004 and 2005 respectively. It illuminates some insights into our struggles (as novice African researchers) in trying to respond to contextual realities as we research education and social change in African contexts, seeking insight into what counts as legitimate research in this context. The paper considers our struggles at conceptual, methodological, analytical and data generation levels, and in a politics of research. This is done by means of examples drawn from five current doctoral research projects being undertaken in east and southern African regions, using a review framework that represents fairly common dimensions of PhD research. We conclude that research, when defined rigidly within research disciplines/paradigms (as have been defined in some – primarily Western – research trajectories) may fail to take into account African social and contextual realities when applied uncritically. We argue that there is need for researchers in Africa to consider a multiplicity of approaches if research is to be meaningful in, and responsive to, social and contextual realities. In particular, we argue for taking account of socio historical and socio-cultural contexts in creating African epistemology in and through research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Lupele, Justin , Mwingi, Mweru , Kinyanjui, Felistus , Kimani, Joyce , Kisamba, Christine
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/373734 , vital:66717 , xlink:href="https://www.ajol.info/index.php/sajee/article/view/122698"
- Description: This paper emerges out of a panel discussion during a PhD week and subsequent 8th International Environmental Education Invitation Seminar held at Rhodes University in 2004 and 2005 respectively. It illuminates some insights into our struggles (as novice African researchers) in trying to respond to contextual realities as we research education and social change in African contexts, seeking insight into what counts as legitimate research in this context. The paper considers our struggles at conceptual, methodological, analytical and data generation levels, and in a politics of research. This is done by means of examples drawn from five current doctoral research projects being undertaken in east and southern African regions, using a review framework that represents fairly common dimensions of PhD research. We conclude that research, when defined rigidly within research disciplines/paradigms (as have been defined in some – primarily Western – research trajectories) may fail to take into account African social and contextual realities when applied uncritically. We argue that there is need for researchers in Africa to consider a multiplicity of approaches if research is to be meaningful in, and responsive to, social and contextual realities. In particular, we argue for taking account of socio historical and socio-cultural contexts in creating African epistemology in and through research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
Screening of technologies for the recovery of rhodium (III) metal ions from a precious metal refinery wastewater
- Authors: Mack, Cherie-Lynn
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Rhodium , Metal ions , Sewage -- Purification -- Metals removal , Platinum group
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3987 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004046 , Rhodium , Metal ions , Sewage -- Purification -- Metals removal , Platinum group
- Description: The selective recovery of rhodium from wastewaters, in which the metal would be otherwise lost, would be highly profitable if the process were suitably low-cost. Current recovery processes are generally high maintenance and high-cost, whereas biological processes can be engineered to run with little external input in terms of cost and maintenance. Three emerging technologies were chosen based on their reported efficiency when removing base metals from wastewaters. The first technology screened, the sulphide-extraction membrane bioreactor (SEMB), consists of a sulphate-reducing prokaryote (SRP) anaerobic digester, in which a silicone membrane is submerged. Wastewater is passed through the membrane and metal ions are precipitated as metal sulphides by the hydrogen sulphide gas, which is capable of permeating the membrane. The second technology screened was a fluidized sand bed reactor in which metal ions are removed from solution via induction of nucleated precipitation by sodium carbonate onto the sand grains. The third, and most well established removal technology screened was a biosorption system using immobilized Saccharomyces cerevisiae biomass as the biosorbent. Experimental trials with each technology highlighted drawbacks with each; the SEMB system proved to be largely ineffective when challenged with the removal of rhodium from the wastewater as the rhodium precipitate fouled the membrane within hours, the fluidized bed system seemed unable to overcome the acidity of the wastewater and thus could not precipitate out the rhodium metal, and the efficiency of the biosorption process was hampered by the diversity of rhodium species present in the wastewater, which reduced the amount recovered. The outcomes of the trials with each technology indicated that further optimization of the technology or pretreatment of the wastewater is necessary before any of these options can be implemented. It could be concluded, however, that despite further optimization, both the SEMB and the fluidized bed system were not applicable in this case as precipitation would be non-specific, resulting in the necessity for further steps in order to purify the rhodium ions. Hence, the biosorption system was shown to be most applicable, and further optimization of the system could yield a highly efficient rhodium recovery process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Mack, Cherie-Lynn
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Rhodium , Metal ions , Sewage -- Purification -- Metals removal , Platinum group
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3987 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004046 , Rhodium , Metal ions , Sewage -- Purification -- Metals removal , Platinum group
- Description: The selective recovery of rhodium from wastewaters, in which the metal would be otherwise lost, would be highly profitable if the process were suitably low-cost. Current recovery processes are generally high maintenance and high-cost, whereas biological processes can be engineered to run with little external input in terms of cost and maintenance. Three emerging technologies were chosen based on their reported efficiency when removing base metals from wastewaters. The first technology screened, the sulphide-extraction membrane bioreactor (SEMB), consists of a sulphate-reducing prokaryote (SRP) anaerobic digester, in which a silicone membrane is submerged. Wastewater is passed through the membrane and metal ions are precipitated as metal sulphides by the hydrogen sulphide gas, which is capable of permeating the membrane. The second technology screened was a fluidized sand bed reactor in which metal ions are removed from solution via induction of nucleated precipitation by sodium carbonate onto the sand grains. The third, and most well established removal technology screened was a biosorption system using immobilized Saccharomyces cerevisiae biomass as the biosorbent. Experimental trials with each technology highlighted drawbacks with each; the SEMB system proved to be largely ineffective when challenged with the removal of rhodium from the wastewater as the rhodium precipitate fouled the membrane within hours, the fluidized bed system seemed unable to overcome the acidity of the wastewater and thus could not precipitate out the rhodium metal, and the efficiency of the biosorption process was hampered by the diversity of rhodium species present in the wastewater, which reduced the amount recovered. The outcomes of the trials with each technology indicated that further optimization of the technology or pretreatment of the wastewater is necessary before any of these options can be implemented. It could be concluded, however, that despite further optimization, both the SEMB and the fluidized bed system were not applicable in this case as precipitation would be non-specific, resulting in the necessity for further steps in order to purify the rhodium ions. Hence, the biosorption system was shown to be most applicable, and further optimization of the system could yield a highly efficient rhodium recovery process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
An assessment of the shore baitfishery in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mackenzie, Bernard Louis
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Fishing baits -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fishery management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fisheries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fishery -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5232 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005075 , Fishing baits -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fishery management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fisheries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fishery -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Description: The collection of bait organisms goes hand-in-hand with shore-angling in South Africa, hence the level of bait-collection can be used as an indicator of fishing effort and vice versa. This emphasises the importance of understanding the fisheries for bait organisms. In 1998 the South African fisheries policy was revised, culminating in the Marine Living Resources Act No. 18 (1998) which supported sustainable development, equitable access to resources and stability of the industry. The policy also dealt with the needs of subsistence fishers who had previously been all but ignored. This study looks to continue in this direction by investigating the opportunities for the establishment and management implications of small-scale commercial baitfisheries in the Eastern Cape. Data were collected from eight clearly demarcated sampling areas using the roving survey method. A total of 97 survey trips were undertaken between September 2001 and April 2003 and 469 interviews were conducted on individual anglers. The data was analysed and discussed on the basis of three wider study regions and this allowed for a more accurate and focussed assessment of the fishery area and the potential for its formalisation. Recreational fishers (91.5%) dominated in each of the three regions surveyed. The low number of subsistence fishers encountered in this study is not a standard pattern throughout South Africa. The dominance of local residents in the shore-fishery could have an important impact on the success of a formalised baitfishery in that the greater proportion of the potential market is accessible throughout the year. Most recreational shore-anglers were middle-aged (43.8 years ± 12.9 years), and hence at the peak of their earning years and this may contribute towards the potential success of a small-scale commercial baitfishery. Most anglers and baitfishers were of the opinion that all South Africans owned and were responsible for managing the living marine resources. The vast majority of recreational users paid for and were in possession of valid permits and approved of the baitfishery regulations. This implies that the greater majority of users recognise that the state is the rightful custodian of the resource and is responsible for management. No subsistence users were in possession of permits. Resource users in the Gamtoos to Tsitsikamma National Park region, where the inspection rate was highest, had the best knowledge of the regulations regarding both baitfishing (67.2% ± 38.8%) and angling (79.8 ± 21.4%). This substantiates the hypothesis that there is a direct correlation between knowledge of the regulations and the rate of inspection. About 475 000 angler-days/year were fished in the study area, with the highest number of angler-days recorded in or near urban and peri-urban areas. Bronze bream (65.9%) and dusky kob (61.1%) were the two most commonly targeted species, followed by white steenbras (31.7%), white musselcracker (31.4%) and blacktail (20.2%). A total of four purchased and 19 collected bait species was recorded during the study. Sardine, chokka and pink prawn were the most frequently encountered purchased bait. Red bait, sand prawn, mullet, siffie, sand mussel, bloodworm and saddleback were the most frequently encountered collected bait species. Sand prawn was identified as the preferred bait species for a wide range of angling species. The total quantity of bait organisms used per fishing trip was markedly less than the total amount collected per trip. The ban of off-road vehicles (ORV's) from beaches (20 January 2002) resulted in spatial shifts in angler effort in certain areas, suggesting that total effort has reduced in areas where ORV's were commonly used. Subsequent to the ban, fishers were encountered, on average, much closer to access points. The value of small-scale baitfisheries within the total study area was estimated at about R7 million per year. Across the entire study area red bait was identified as the most valuable bait in the rock-and-surf fishery in monetary terms, while sand prawn was also important. The findings led to the conclusion that small-scale commercial baitfisheries in the study area are potentially viable. Scenarios for the establishment of baitfisheries are suggested and discussed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Mackenzie, Bernard Louis
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Fishing baits -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fishery management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fisheries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fishery -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5232 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005075 , Fishing baits -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fishery management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fisheries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fishery -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Description: The collection of bait organisms goes hand-in-hand with shore-angling in South Africa, hence the level of bait-collection can be used as an indicator of fishing effort and vice versa. This emphasises the importance of understanding the fisheries for bait organisms. In 1998 the South African fisheries policy was revised, culminating in the Marine Living Resources Act No. 18 (1998) which supported sustainable development, equitable access to resources and stability of the industry. The policy also dealt with the needs of subsistence fishers who had previously been all but ignored. This study looks to continue in this direction by investigating the opportunities for the establishment and management implications of small-scale commercial baitfisheries in the Eastern Cape. Data were collected from eight clearly demarcated sampling areas using the roving survey method. A total of 97 survey trips were undertaken between September 2001 and April 2003 and 469 interviews were conducted on individual anglers. The data was analysed and discussed on the basis of three wider study regions and this allowed for a more accurate and focussed assessment of the fishery area and the potential for its formalisation. Recreational fishers (91.5%) dominated in each of the three regions surveyed. The low number of subsistence fishers encountered in this study is not a standard pattern throughout South Africa. The dominance of local residents in the shore-fishery could have an important impact on the success of a formalised baitfishery in that the greater proportion of the potential market is accessible throughout the year. Most recreational shore-anglers were middle-aged (43.8 years ± 12.9 years), and hence at the peak of their earning years and this may contribute towards the potential success of a small-scale commercial baitfishery. Most anglers and baitfishers were of the opinion that all South Africans owned and were responsible for managing the living marine resources. The vast majority of recreational users paid for and were in possession of valid permits and approved of the baitfishery regulations. This implies that the greater majority of users recognise that the state is the rightful custodian of the resource and is responsible for management. No subsistence users were in possession of permits. Resource users in the Gamtoos to Tsitsikamma National Park region, where the inspection rate was highest, had the best knowledge of the regulations regarding both baitfishing (67.2% ± 38.8%) and angling (79.8 ± 21.4%). This substantiates the hypothesis that there is a direct correlation between knowledge of the regulations and the rate of inspection. About 475 000 angler-days/year were fished in the study area, with the highest number of angler-days recorded in or near urban and peri-urban areas. Bronze bream (65.9%) and dusky kob (61.1%) were the two most commonly targeted species, followed by white steenbras (31.7%), white musselcracker (31.4%) and blacktail (20.2%). A total of four purchased and 19 collected bait species was recorded during the study. Sardine, chokka and pink prawn were the most frequently encountered purchased bait. Red bait, sand prawn, mullet, siffie, sand mussel, bloodworm and saddleback were the most frequently encountered collected bait species. Sand prawn was identified as the preferred bait species for a wide range of angling species. The total quantity of bait organisms used per fishing trip was markedly less than the total amount collected per trip. The ban of off-road vehicles (ORV's) from beaches (20 January 2002) resulted in spatial shifts in angler effort in certain areas, suggesting that total effort has reduced in areas where ORV's were commonly used. Subsequent to the ban, fishers were encountered, on average, much closer to access points. The value of small-scale baitfisheries within the total study area was estimated at about R7 million per year. Across the entire study area red bait was identified as the most valuable bait in the rock-and-surf fishery in monetary terms, while sand prawn was also important. The findings led to the conclusion that small-scale commercial baitfisheries in the study area are potentially viable. Scenarios for the establishment of baitfisheries are suggested and discussed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
Identification of cis-elements and transacting factors involved in the abiotic stress responses of plants
- Authors: Maclear, Athlee
- Date: 2005 , 2013-06-10
- Subjects: Plants -- Effect of stress on , Proteins -- Analysis , Bioinformatics , DNA , Plant genetics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4074 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007236 , Plants -- Effect of stress on , Proteins -- Analysis , Bioinformatics , DNA , Plant genetics
- Description: Many stress situations limit plant growth, resulting in crop production difficulties. Population growth, limited availability and over-utilization of arable land, and intolerant crop species have resulted in tremendous strain being placed on agriculturalists to produce enough to sustain the world's population. An understanding of the principles involved in plant resistance to environmental stress will enable scientists to harness these mechanisms to create stress-tolerant crop species, thus increasing crop production, and enabling the farming of previously unproductive land. This research project uses computational and bioinformatics techniques to explore the promoter regions of genes, encoding proteins that are up- or down-regulated in response to specific abiotic stresses, with the aim of identifying common patterns in the cis-elements governing the regulation of these abiotic stress responsive genes. An initial dataset of fifty known genes encoding for proteins reported to be up- or down-regulated in response to plant stresses that result in water-deficit at the cellular level viz. drought, low temperature, and salinity, were identified, and a postgreSQL database created to store relevant information pertaining to these genes and the proteins encoded by them. The genomic DNA was obtained where possible, and the promoter and intron regions identified. The Neural Network Promoter Prediction (NNPP) software package was used to predict the transcription start signal (TSS) and the promoter searching software tool, TESS (Transcription Element Search Software) used to identify known and user-defined cis-elements within the promoter regions of these genes. Currently available promoter prediction software analysis tools are reported to predict one promoter per kilobase of DNA, whilst functional promoters are thought to only occur one in 30-40 kilobases, which indicates that a large perccntage of predictions are likely to be false positives (pedersen et. al., 1999). NNPP was chosen as it was rated as the highest performing promoter prediction software tool by Fickett and Hatzigeorgiou (1997) in a thorough review of eukaryotic promoter prediction algorithms, however results were less than promising as very few predicted TSS were identified in the area 50 bps up- and downstream of the gene start site, where biologically functional TSSs are known to occur (Reese, 2000; Fickett and Hatzigeorgiou, 1997). TESS results seemed to support the hypothesis that drought, low-temperature and high salinity plant stress response proteins have similar as-elements in their promoter regions, and suggested links to various other gene regulation mechanisms viz. gibberellin-, light-, auxin- and development-regulated gene expression, highlighting the vast complexity of plant stress response processes. Although far from conclusive, results provide a valuable basis for future comparative promoter studies that will attempt to deduce possible common transcriptional initiation of abiotic stress response genes. , KMBT_363 , Adobe Acrobat 9.54 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Maclear, Athlee
- Date: 2005 , 2013-06-10
- Subjects: Plants -- Effect of stress on , Proteins -- Analysis , Bioinformatics , DNA , Plant genetics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4074 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007236 , Plants -- Effect of stress on , Proteins -- Analysis , Bioinformatics , DNA , Plant genetics
- Description: Many stress situations limit plant growth, resulting in crop production difficulties. Population growth, limited availability and over-utilization of arable land, and intolerant crop species have resulted in tremendous strain being placed on agriculturalists to produce enough to sustain the world's population. An understanding of the principles involved in plant resistance to environmental stress will enable scientists to harness these mechanisms to create stress-tolerant crop species, thus increasing crop production, and enabling the farming of previously unproductive land. This research project uses computational and bioinformatics techniques to explore the promoter regions of genes, encoding proteins that are up- or down-regulated in response to specific abiotic stresses, with the aim of identifying common patterns in the cis-elements governing the regulation of these abiotic stress responsive genes. An initial dataset of fifty known genes encoding for proteins reported to be up- or down-regulated in response to plant stresses that result in water-deficit at the cellular level viz. drought, low temperature, and salinity, were identified, and a postgreSQL database created to store relevant information pertaining to these genes and the proteins encoded by them. The genomic DNA was obtained where possible, and the promoter and intron regions identified. The Neural Network Promoter Prediction (NNPP) software package was used to predict the transcription start signal (TSS) and the promoter searching software tool, TESS (Transcription Element Search Software) used to identify known and user-defined cis-elements within the promoter regions of these genes. Currently available promoter prediction software analysis tools are reported to predict one promoter per kilobase of DNA, whilst functional promoters are thought to only occur one in 30-40 kilobases, which indicates that a large perccntage of predictions are likely to be false positives (pedersen et. al., 1999). NNPP was chosen as it was rated as the highest performing promoter prediction software tool by Fickett and Hatzigeorgiou (1997) in a thorough review of eukaryotic promoter prediction algorithms, however results were less than promising as very few predicted TSS were identified in the area 50 bps up- and downstream of the gene start site, where biologically functional TSSs are known to occur (Reese, 2000; Fickett and Hatzigeorgiou, 1997). TESS results seemed to support the hypothesis that drought, low-temperature and high salinity plant stress response proteins have similar as-elements in their promoter regions, and suggested links to various other gene regulation mechanisms viz. gibberellin-, light-, auxin- and development-regulated gene expression, highlighting the vast complexity of plant stress response processes. Although far from conclusive, results provide a valuable basis for future comparative promoter studies that will attempt to deduce possible common transcriptional initiation of abiotic stress response genes. , KMBT_363 , Adobe Acrobat 9.54 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
The poetry of Guy Butler
- Authors: Maclennan, D A C
- Date: 2005
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6119 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004673
- Description: [From the introduction]: Guy Butler, born in Cradock on 21 January 1918, was a serious poet. Nearly a third of his poems are about death or loss, and many of the rest about parting failure, or difficult self-denial. His poetry is generally thoughtful and responsible to a deep religious vision. Of the ninety poems published between 1939 and 1979 the finest are those written between 1943 and 1963, from “Syrian Spring” to “Sweetwater.” The best poems cluster like moons round “On First Seeing Florence,” which is a major poem seldom given its rightful attention.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Maclennan, D A C
- Date: 2005
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6119 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004673
- Description: [From the introduction]: Guy Butler, born in Cradock on 21 January 1918, was a serious poet. Nearly a third of his poems are about death or loss, and many of the rest about parting failure, or difficult self-denial. His poetry is generally thoughtful and responsible to a deep religious vision. Of the ninety poems published between 1939 and 1979 the finest are those written between 1943 and 1963, from “Syrian Spring” to “Sweetwater.” The best poems cluster like moons round “On First Seeing Florence,” which is a major poem seldom given its rightful attention.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
Secondary school principals' perceptions and experience of management development programmes
- Authors: Madasi, Vuyelwa
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Educational change -- South Africa School management and organization -- South Africa Educational leadership -- South Africa Educational planning -- South Africa School improvement programs -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1763 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003648
- Description: Management development in educational contexts is a relatively recent development in South Africa. The Task Team Report on Education Management Development of 1996 drew pertinent attention to the need for education management development in South Africa, and set an agenda for such development. Since then many management development programmes have been launched by both National and Provincial government. However, very little research seems to have been conducted on these programmes, especially on how they have been received. This study seeks to address that need. The study is a qualitative phenomenological investigation of how four secondary school principals experienced and perceived the management development programmes they have attended. In line with a phenomenological approach, the study sets aside preconceived ideas and attempts to describe the phenomenon through the eyes of the participants. Findings suggest that management development programmes are perceived as having a big role to play in the development of school managers, but that the programmes on offer suffer from various shortcomings. These include poor planning, lack of organisational and facilitating skills in presenters, lack of commitment, monitoring and support from the bodies offering the courses, and especially the failure of training programmes to bring about increased confidence and self-awareness among participants. Increased selfawareness can help in personal and organisational renewal and growth, and help to minimise the dependency syndrome among principals. Particular needs highlighted by the findings include training in the new curriculum (Outcomes Based Education), holistic development by experts in all facets of school management, training of School Governing Bodies and development of all educators in management as future managers. These findings may prove helpful to education departments and other bodies in the planning and delivery of programmes for new and incumbent school managers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Madasi, Vuyelwa
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Educational change -- South Africa School management and organization -- South Africa Educational leadership -- South Africa Educational planning -- South Africa School improvement programs -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1763 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003648
- Description: Management development in educational contexts is a relatively recent development in South Africa. The Task Team Report on Education Management Development of 1996 drew pertinent attention to the need for education management development in South Africa, and set an agenda for such development. Since then many management development programmes have been launched by both National and Provincial government. However, very little research seems to have been conducted on these programmes, especially on how they have been received. This study seeks to address that need. The study is a qualitative phenomenological investigation of how four secondary school principals experienced and perceived the management development programmes they have attended. In line with a phenomenological approach, the study sets aside preconceived ideas and attempts to describe the phenomenon through the eyes of the participants. Findings suggest that management development programmes are perceived as having a big role to play in the development of school managers, but that the programmes on offer suffer from various shortcomings. These include poor planning, lack of organisational and facilitating skills in presenters, lack of commitment, monitoring and support from the bodies offering the courses, and especially the failure of training programmes to bring about increased confidence and self-awareness among participants. Increased selfawareness can help in personal and organisational renewal and growth, and help to minimise the dependency syndrome among principals. Particular needs highlighted by the findings include training in the new curriculum (Outcomes Based Education), holistic development by experts in all facets of school management, training of School Governing Bodies and development of all educators in management as future managers. These findings may prove helpful to education departments and other bodies in the planning and delivery of programmes for new and incumbent school managers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
Melatonin generates singlet oxygen on laser irradiation but acts as a quencher when irradiated by lamp photolysis
- Maharaj, Deepa S, Molell, H, Antunes, Edith M, Maharaj, Hiren, Maree, D M, Nyokong, Tebello, Glass, Beverley D, Daya, Santy
- Authors: Maharaj, Deepa S , Molell, H , Antunes, Edith M , Maharaj, Hiren , Maree, D M , Nyokong, Tebello , Glass, Beverley D , Daya, Santy
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/300335 , vital:57917 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1600-079X.2004.00185.x"
- Description: Melatonin, a naturally occurring chemical mediator, although assigned a diverse range of functions, has attracted interest in recent years because of its ability to function as a free radical scavenger. Because of the implications of singlet oxygen in neurotoxicity, the objective of the study was to investigate the ability of melatonin to quench singlet oxygen generated using laser irradiation or lamp photolysis. The results show that melatonin produces radicals upon laser irradation while the lamp photolysis studies show that melatonin is able to scavenge singlet oxygen produced by naphthalene. While melatonin is a free radical scavenger under biological conditions, it acts as a generator of singlet oxygen and or radicals (as ΦΔ is 1.41) when irradiated with laser light, implying that it has the potential to be used in photodynamic therapy in the destruction of tumors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Maharaj, Deepa S , Molell, H , Antunes, Edith M , Maharaj, Hiren , Maree, D M , Nyokong, Tebello , Glass, Beverley D , Daya, Santy
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/300335 , vital:57917 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1600-079X.2004.00185.x"
- Description: Melatonin, a naturally occurring chemical mediator, although assigned a diverse range of functions, has attracted interest in recent years because of its ability to function as a free radical scavenger. Because of the implications of singlet oxygen in neurotoxicity, the objective of the study was to investigate the ability of melatonin to quench singlet oxygen generated using laser irradiation or lamp photolysis. The results show that melatonin produces radicals upon laser irradation while the lamp photolysis studies show that melatonin is able to scavenge singlet oxygen produced by naphthalene. While melatonin is a free radical scavenger under biological conditions, it acts as a generator of singlet oxygen and or radicals (as ΦΔ is 1.41) when irradiated with laser light, implying that it has the potential to be used in photodynamic therapy in the destruction of tumors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
An investigation into the neuroprotective properties of acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen
- Authors: Maharaj, Himant
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Aspirin Acetaminophen Analgesics Alzheimer's disease -- Treatment Parkinson's disease
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3769 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003247
- Description: The potent analgesic property of acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen makes these the most commonly used analgesics in the world. Easy accessibility and cost effectiveness of these agents are attractive to patients seeking pain relief. However, the abuse of nonnarcotic analgesics such as acetaminophen and acetylsalicylic acid by alcoholics and patients seeking to relieve dysphoric moods is well documented. These agents therefore impact on the brain neurotransmitter levels and therefore all processes involved in the synthesis and metabolism of neurotransmitters may be affected. The use of non-narcotic analgesics has been reported to reduce the incidence of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). The mode of action by which acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen elicit neuroprotection is however unclear as many mechanisms of action have been inconclusively postulated. The first part of this study aims to elucidate the various mechanisms by which acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen affect the enzymes responsible for the catabolism of tryptophan, which is a precursor for the mood elevating neurotransmitter serotonin, as well as to investigate whether these agents alter the interplay between serotonin and pineal indole metabolism. The second part of this study focuses on the neuroprotective properties of acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen utilizing the neurotoxic metabolite of the kynurenine pathway, quinolinic acid and the potent Parkinsonian neurotoxin, 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+). The ability of acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen to alter TRP metabolism was determined by investigating the effects of these agents on the primary enzymes of the kynurenine pathway i.e. tryptophan 2, 3-dioxygenase and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase as well as to investigate whether these agents would have any effects on 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid oxygenase. 3-Hydroxyanthranilic acid oxygenase is the enzyme responsible for the synthesis of quinolinic acid. Acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen alter tryptophan metabolism by inhibiting tryptophan 2, 3-dioxygenase and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase thus increasing the availability of tryptophan for the production of serotonin. Acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen also inhibit 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid oxygenase thus implying that these agents could reduce quinolinic acid production. Acetaminophen administration in rats induces a rise in serotonin and norepinephrine in the forebrain. Acetylsalicylic acid curtails the acetaminophen-induced rise in brain norepinephrine levels as well as enhances serotonin metabolism, indicating that analgesic preparations containing both agents would be advantageous, as this would prevent acetaminophen-induced mood elevation. The results from the pineal indole metabolism study show that acetylsalicylic acid enhances pineal metabolism of serotonin whereas acetaminophen induces an increase in melatonin levels in the pineal gland. Neuronal damage due to oxidative stress has been implicated in several neurodegenerative disorders such as AD and PD. The second part of the study aims to elucidate and characterize the mechanism by which acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen afford neuroprotection. The hippocampus is an important region of the brain responsible for memory. Agents such as quinolinic acid that are known to induce stress in this area have detrimental effects and could lead to various types of dementia. The striatum is also a vulnerable region to oxidative stress and hence (MPP+), which is toxic for this particular region of the brain, was also used as a neurotoxin. The results show that ASA and acetaminophen alone and in combination, are potent superoxide anion scavengers. In addition, the results imply that these agents offer protection against oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation induced by several neurotoxins in rat brain particularly, the hippocampus and striatum. Histological studies, using Nissl staining and Acid fuchsin, show that acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen are able to protect hippocampal neurons against quinolinic acidinduced necrotic cell death. Immunohistochemical investigations show that QA induces apoptotic cell death in the hippocampus, which is inhibited by ASA and acetaminophen. In addition, ASA and acetaminophen inhibited MPP+ induced apoptotic cell death in the rat striatum. The study also sought to elucidate possible mechanisms by which ASA and acetaminophen exert neuroprotective effects in the presence of MPP+ as these agents are shown to prevent the MPP+-induced reduction in dopamine levels. The results show that acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen inhibit the action of this neurotoxin on the mitochondrial electron transport chain, a common source of free radicals in the cell. In addition, these agents were shown to block the neurotoxic effects of MPP+ on the enzymatic defence system of the brain i.e. superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and catalase. The reduction in glutathione levels induced by MPP+ is significantly inhibited by acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen. The results imply that these agents are capable of not only scavenging free radicals but also enhance the cell defence mechanism against toxicity in the presence of MPP+. These agents also block the MPP+-induced inhibition of dopamine uptake into the cell. This would therefore reduce auto-oxidation of dopamine thus implying another mechanism by which these agents exert a neuroprotective role in MPP+-induced neurotoxicity. The discovery of neuroprotective properties of acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen is important considering the high usage of these agents and the increased incidence in neurological disorders. The findings of this thesis point to the need for clinical studies to be conducted as the results show acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen to have a definite role to play as antioxidants. This study therefore provides novel information regarding the neuroprotective effects of these agents and favours the use of these agents in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, such as AD and PD, in which oxidative stress is implicated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Maharaj, Himant
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Aspirin Acetaminophen Analgesics Alzheimer's disease -- Treatment Parkinson's disease
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3769 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003247
- Description: The potent analgesic property of acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen makes these the most commonly used analgesics in the world. Easy accessibility and cost effectiveness of these agents are attractive to patients seeking pain relief. However, the abuse of nonnarcotic analgesics such as acetaminophen and acetylsalicylic acid by alcoholics and patients seeking to relieve dysphoric moods is well documented. These agents therefore impact on the brain neurotransmitter levels and therefore all processes involved in the synthesis and metabolism of neurotransmitters may be affected. The use of non-narcotic analgesics has been reported to reduce the incidence of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). The mode of action by which acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen elicit neuroprotection is however unclear as many mechanisms of action have been inconclusively postulated. The first part of this study aims to elucidate the various mechanisms by which acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen affect the enzymes responsible for the catabolism of tryptophan, which is a precursor for the mood elevating neurotransmitter serotonin, as well as to investigate whether these agents alter the interplay between serotonin and pineal indole metabolism. The second part of this study focuses on the neuroprotective properties of acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen utilizing the neurotoxic metabolite of the kynurenine pathway, quinolinic acid and the potent Parkinsonian neurotoxin, 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+). The ability of acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen to alter TRP metabolism was determined by investigating the effects of these agents on the primary enzymes of the kynurenine pathway i.e. tryptophan 2, 3-dioxygenase and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase as well as to investigate whether these agents would have any effects on 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid oxygenase. 3-Hydroxyanthranilic acid oxygenase is the enzyme responsible for the synthesis of quinolinic acid. Acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen alter tryptophan metabolism by inhibiting tryptophan 2, 3-dioxygenase and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase thus increasing the availability of tryptophan for the production of serotonin. Acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen also inhibit 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid oxygenase thus implying that these agents could reduce quinolinic acid production. Acetaminophen administration in rats induces a rise in serotonin and norepinephrine in the forebrain. Acetylsalicylic acid curtails the acetaminophen-induced rise in brain norepinephrine levels as well as enhances serotonin metabolism, indicating that analgesic preparations containing both agents would be advantageous, as this would prevent acetaminophen-induced mood elevation. The results from the pineal indole metabolism study show that acetylsalicylic acid enhances pineal metabolism of serotonin whereas acetaminophen induces an increase in melatonin levels in the pineal gland. Neuronal damage due to oxidative stress has been implicated in several neurodegenerative disorders such as AD and PD. The second part of the study aims to elucidate and characterize the mechanism by which acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen afford neuroprotection. The hippocampus is an important region of the brain responsible for memory. Agents such as quinolinic acid that are known to induce stress in this area have detrimental effects and could lead to various types of dementia. The striatum is also a vulnerable region to oxidative stress and hence (MPP+), which is toxic for this particular region of the brain, was also used as a neurotoxin. The results show that ASA and acetaminophen alone and in combination, are potent superoxide anion scavengers. In addition, the results imply that these agents offer protection against oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation induced by several neurotoxins in rat brain particularly, the hippocampus and striatum. Histological studies, using Nissl staining and Acid fuchsin, show that acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen are able to protect hippocampal neurons against quinolinic acidinduced necrotic cell death. Immunohistochemical investigations show that QA induces apoptotic cell death in the hippocampus, which is inhibited by ASA and acetaminophen. In addition, ASA and acetaminophen inhibited MPP+ induced apoptotic cell death in the rat striatum. The study also sought to elucidate possible mechanisms by which ASA and acetaminophen exert neuroprotective effects in the presence of MPP+ as these agents are shown to prevent the MPP+-induced reduction in dopamine levels. The results show that acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen inhibit the action of this neurotoxin on the mitochondrial electron transport chain, a common source of free radicals in the cell. In addition, these agents were shown to block the neurotoxic effects of MPP+ on the enzymatic defence system of the brain i.e. superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and catalase. The reduction in glutathione levels induced by MPP+ is significantly inhibited by acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen. The results imply that these agents are capable of not only scavenging free radicals but also enhance the cell defence mechanism against toxicity in the presence of MPP+. These agents also block the MPP+-induced inhibition of dopamine uptake into the cell. This would therefore reduce auto-oxidation of dopamine thus implying another mechanism by which these agents exert a neuroprotective role in MPP+-induced neurotoxicity. The discovery of neuroprotective properties of acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen is important considering the high usage of these agents and the increased incidence in neurological disorders. The findings of this thesis point to the need for clinical studies to be conducted as the results show acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen to have a definite role to play as antioxidants. This study therefore provides novel information regarding the neuroprotective effects of these agents and favours the use of these agents in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, such as AD and PD, in which oxidative stress is implicated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
The role of traditional leadership institutions in the development of their communities with specific reference to the Rharhabe kingdom, Mngqesha Great Place, King William's Town
- Mahlangeni, Bethwell Mzikalanga
- Authors: Mahlangeni, Bethwell Mzikalanga
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tribal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8169 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/395 , Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tribal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: It is the objective of this treatise to highlight and demonstrate the role that can be played by Traditional Leadership Institutions in the development of their communities, demonstrate and advance the extent to which they can enhance their image and restore their dignity by embarking on community development projects that will improve the quality of life of their subjects in their jurisdictional areas. However, as the number of Traditional Leadership Institutions that can be investigated and researched was so large, it became necessary to focus attention primarily on the Rharhabe Kingdom with its seat and headquarters at Mngqesha Great Place in King William’s Town. The Mngqesha Great Place, the seat of the Rharhabe Kingdom is a typical example of a Traditional Leadership Institution selected from the six existing Eastern Cape Provincial Kingdoms. Attention is invited to the following fields which had to be explored since they serve the basis for the evolution of Traditional Leadership Institutions in South Africa. A historical background to Traditional Leadership and Governance in South Africa and the Eastern Cape provides some key issues of governance, management and administration, position, place and status of the institution during the pre- colonial and colonial periods, the period under apartheid rule, the independence period of the former homelands of Ciskei and Transkei territories with reflections on Tribal and Regional Authorities and Local Government Bureaux. A synoptic perspective of the effect of changes on the functioning of the Institution of Traditional Leadership is provided in some detail. This part is concluded with a brief history of the Rharhabe Kingdom. An overview of Traditional Leadership and Governance in the new South Africa since 1994 to date indicates the recognition and important role that Traditional Leadership Institutions can play. In this regard, there is policy and legislation that is in place on Traditional Leadership and Governance with a clear vision for implementation. Since 1994, there are many initiatives that have been undertaken by government in creating and maintaining an enabling environment for the efficient management and administration of the institution, transfer payments for different projects like funding the building of various Great Places and Provincial Policy Initiatives on Traditional Leadership and Governance. Institutional arrangements for Traditional Leadership Institutions reflect on the hierarchy of Traditional Leadership, for example, the position of the King as head of a Regional Authority (Ikomkhulu), the Chiefs under Kings as Heads of Traditional Authorities (Inqila) and Headmen as heads of the various Administrative Areas (locations). In order to give meaning to Government’s recognition of the Institution of Traditional Leadership, to enhance the institution and give it a role at the National, Provincial and Local levels, the government has established a National and Provincial Houses of Traditional Leaders with clear roles and responsibilities and provision for accountability of Traditional Leaders and structures. Regarding the role of Traditional Leadership Institutions in Governance and Development, it is clear that over many years, these institutions performed various governance functions. The policy framework on Traditional Leadership and Governance besides legislation specifies the duties and functions of these entities. With regard to the King Sandile Development Trust and its role in community development, the research reveals visionary leadership on the part of the Kingdom, with the Trust, since its establishment in 1999 being at the centre of all development initiatives at the Great Place besides government initiatives. The King Sandile Development Trust is therefore a legal entity established and funded in terms of law. It has its constitution, vision and clear objectives, procedural arrangements on administration, management and financial arrangements. The development role of the trust is reflected in the Queen’s Programme of Action and Implementation, headed by the Queen mother, Queen Noloyiso Sandile, the wife of His Majesty King Maxhobayakhawuleza Sandile. Besides, there are established tourism chalets providing not only revenue but also employment opportunities to many local subjects of the Kingdom. Finally, the treatise concludes with some general conclusion and recommendations and challenges that demand that traditional leaders be appropriately trained, its institutions adequately resourced, appropriately run and administered based on the need to account publicly on their performance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Mahlangeni, Bethwell Mzikalanga
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tribal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8169 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/395 , Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tribal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: It is the objective of this treatise to highlight and demonstrate the role that can be played by Traditional Leadership Institutions in the development of their communities, demonstrate and advance the extent to which they can enhance their image and restore their dignity by embarking on community development projects that will improve the quality of life of their subjects in their jurisdictional areas. However, as the number of Traditional Leadership Institutions that can be investigated and researched was so large, it became necessary to focus attention primarily on the Rharhabe Kingdom with its seat and headquarters at Mngqesha Great Place in King William’s Town. The Mngqesha Great Place, the seat of the Rharhabe Kingdom is a typical example of a Traditional Leadership Institution selected from the six existing Eastern Cape Provincial Kingdoms. Attention is invited to the following fields which had to be explored since they serve the basis for the evolution of Traditional Leadership Institutions in South Africa. A historical background to Traditional Leadership and Governance in South Africa and the Eastern Cape provides some key issues of governance, management and administration, position, place and status of the institution during the pre- colonial and colonial periods, the period under apartheid rule, the independence period of the former homelands of Ciskei and Transkei territories with reflections on Tribal and Regional Authorities and Local Government Bureaux. A synoptic perspective of the effect of changes on the functioning of the Institution of Traditional Leadership is provided in some detail. This part is concluded with a brief history of the Rharhabe Kingdom. An overview of Traditional Leadership and Governance in the new South Africa since 1994 to date indicates the recognition and important role that Traditional Leadership Institutions can play. In this regard, there is policy and legislation that is in place on Traditional Leadership and Governance with a clear vision for implementation. Since 1994, there are many initiatives that have been undertaken by government in creating and maintaining an enabling environment for the efficient management and administration of the institution, transfer payments for different projects like funding the building of various Great Places and Provincial Policy Initiatives on Traditional Leadership and Governance. Institutional arrangements for Traditional Leadership Institutions reflect on the hierarchy of Traditional Leadership, for example, the position of the King as head of a Regional Authority (Ikomkhulu), the Chiefs under Kings as Heads of Traditional Authorities (Inqila) and Headmen as heads of the various Administrative Areas (locations). In order to give meaning to Government’s recognition of the Institution of Traditional Leadership, to enhance the institution and give it a role at the National, Provincial and Local levels, the government has established a National and Provincial Houses of Traditional Leaders with clear roles and responsibilities and provision for accountability of Traditional Leaders and structures. Regarding the role of Traditional Leadership Institutions in Governance and Development, it is clear that over many years, these institutions performed various governance functions. The policy framework on Traditional Leadership and Governance besides legislation specifies the duties and functions of these entities. With regard to the King Sandile Development Trust and its role in community development, the research reveals visionary leadership on the part of the Kingdom, with the Trust, since its establishment in 1999 being at the centre of all development initiatives at the Great Place besides government initiatives. The King Sandile Development Trust is therefore a legal entity established and funded in terms of law. It has its constitution, vision and clear objectives, procedural arrangements on administration, management and financial arrangements. The development role of the trust is reflected in the Queen’s Programme of Action and Implementation, headed by the Queen mother, Queen Noloyiso Sandile, the wife of His Majesty King Maxhobayakhawuleza Sandile. Besides, there are established tourism chalets providing not only revenue but also employment opportunities to many local subjects of the Kingdom. Finally, the treatise concludes with some general conclusion and recommendations and challenges that demand that traditional leaders be appropriately trained, its institutions adequately resourced, appropriately run and administered based on the need to account publicly on their performance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
A critical evaluation of the preferential procurement strategy and enterprise development strategy of a major motor manufacturer in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Makapela, Nobuntu Unathi B
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: DaimlerChrysler Employee empowerment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Black people -- South Africa -- Economic conditions Business enterprises, Black -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:808 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007274
- Description: This research is born out of recognition of the challenges Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) in the private sector faces in South Africa, with preferential procurement being one of the components of South Africa's Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment Strategy. Over the past years, South Africa has witnessed the birth of a new economy, one that allows for investment in its people, makes provision for sustainable growth through skills transfer and development, and ensures economic empowerment. The focus of this research is the Preferential Procurement strategy implemented at DaimlerChrysler South Africa (DCSA) as part of its overall Black Economic Empowerment strategy, the perceptions and expectations of how the current BEE preferential procurement strategy should work versus the perceived performance of how it is working. An official definition of Black Economic Empowerment is presented in the study, followed by barriers to growth of BEE suppliers. The aim of defining Black Economic Empowerment is to provide a good reference point against which an organization like DaimlerChrysler can assess the implementation of its preferential procurement programmes. Having discussed the above, there will be a reflection on government scorecard and a brief discussion of the two charters namely, mining and financial services charter. The study also presents the following requirements for a successful BEE corporate strategy: Strategic intent; External Balanced Scorecard; Financial Assistance; Skills development; Communication. A research methodology for conducting this study and data analysis is presented, followed by limitations of the study and recommendations for further research. It is expected that the knowledge gained from this study will help to I. Demonstrate the need to change perceptions and behaviour regarding Black Economic Empowerment. 2. Assist procurement officials to include BEE objectives into their procurement strategy. 3. Identify policy implications and assist in improving DCSA's Black Economic Empowerment Procurement strategy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Makapela, Nobuntu Unathi B
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: DaimlerChrysler Employee empowerment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Black people -- South Africa -- Economic conditions Business enterprises, Black -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:808 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007274
- Description: This research is born out of recognition of the challenges Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) in the private sector faces in South Africa, with preferential procurement being one of the components of South Africa's Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment Strategy. Over the past years, South Africa has witnessed the birth of a new economy, one that allows for investment in its people, makes provision for sustainable growth through skills transfer and development, and ensures economic empowerment. The focus of this research is the Preferential Procurement strategy implemented at DaimlerChrysler South Africa (DCSA) as part of its overall Black Economic Empowerment strategy, the perceptions and expectations of how the current BEE preferential procurement strategy should work versus the perceived performance of how it is working. An official definition of Black Economic Empowerment is presented in the study, followed by barriers to growth of BEE suppliers. The aim of defining Black Economic Empowerment is to provide a good reference point against which an organization like DaimlerChrysler can assess the implementation of its preferential procurement programmes. Having discussed the above, there will be a reflection on government scorecard and a brief discussion of the two charters namely, mining and financial services charter. The study also presents the following requirements for a successful BEE corporate strategy: Strategic intent; External Balanced Scorecard; Financial Assistance; Skills development; Communication. A research methodology for conducting this study and data analysis is presented, followed by limitations of the study and recommendations for further research. It is expected that the knowledge gained from this study will help to I. Demonstrate the need to change perceptions and behaviour regarding Black Economic Empowerment. 2. Assist procurement officials to include BEE objectives into their procurement strategy. 3. Identify policy implications and assist in improving DCSA's Black Economic Empowerment Procurement strategy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
A critical analysis of the information technology infrastructure outsource deal between Trans Hex Operations and Commsco
- Authors: Makka, Ferrandi W
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Contracting out -- Management , Information technology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8545 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1595 , Contracting out -- Management , Information technology -- South Africa
- Description: The outsourcing market for information technology services has been transformed over the last few years. Outsourcing, once inspired primarily by cost reductions, now forms part of overall company strategies in order to improve focus. Intent: The purpose of this research project is to conduct a critical analysis of the outsourcing of information technology infrastructure. In particular, this paper will focus on the process followed and on adherence to good corporate governance and business ethics. This dissertation addresses (i) the strategic reasons for outsourcing, (ii) reasons for not outsourcing, (iii) the different types of models available, (iv) the outsourcing process to follow, and (v) the risks associated with outsourcing. These five aspects were all empirically tested in Trans Hex. Findings: The main findings were that (i) no recognized formal process had been followed; (ii) the risk profile of the outsourcing company changed and (iii) a post-outsourcing review is required to determine whether the process is working as planned and to identify opportunities for improvement. Conclusion: A new approach is needed to improve the viability and success of outsourcing information technology infrastructure. Based on the present findings it is argued that a holistic approach to information technology infrastructure outsourcing should be adopted which combines several outsourcing processes into a company-specific outsourcing process framework.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Makka, Ferrandi W
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Contracting out -- Management , Information technology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8545 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1595 , Contracting out -- Management , Information technology -- South Africa
- Description: The outsourcing market for information technology services has been transformed over the last few years. Outsourcing, once inspired primarily by cost reductions, now forms part of overall company strategies in order to improve focus. Intent: The purpose of this research project is to conduct a critical analysis of the outsourcing of information technology infrastructure. In particular, this paper will focus on the process followed and on adherence to good corporate governance and business ethics. This dissertation addresses (i) the strategic reasons for outsourcing, (ii) reasons for not outsourcing, (iii) the different types of models available, (iv) the outsourcing process to follow, and (v) the risks associated with outsourcing. These five aspects were all empirically tested in Trans Hex. Findings: The main findings were that (i) no recognized formal process had been followed; (ii) the risk profile of the outsourcing company changed and (iii) a post-outsourcing review is required to determine whether the process is working as planned and to identify opportunities for improvement. Conclusion: A new approach is needed to improve the viability and success of outsourcing information technology infrastructure. Based on the present findings it is argued that a holistic approach to information technology infrastructure outsourcing should be adopted which combines several outsourcing processes into a company-specific outsourcing process framework.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
Language is culture:
- Authors: Malila, Vanessa
- Date: 2005
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/159256 , vital:40281 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC146402
- Description: Many of us think that English dominates the web pages we surf each day. Indeed, until recently English was the predominant language for publishing online, but things are slowly changing and the presence of linguistic diversity on the Internet is starting to become a reality in the global village. The question, however, remains: how many African languages are represented in that diversity?.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Malila, Vanessa
- Date: 2005
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/159256 , vital:40281 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC146402
- Description: Many of us think that English dominates the web pages we surf each day. Indeed, until recently English was the predominant language for publishing online, but things are slowly changing and the presence of linguistic diversity on the Internet is starting to become a reality in the global village. The question, however, remains: how many African languages are represented in that diversity?.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005