Pet stores, aquarists and the internet trade as modes of introduction and spread of invasive macrophytes in South Africa
- Martin, Grant D, Coetzee, Julie A
- Authors: Martin, Grant D , Coetzee, Julie A
- Date: 2011
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6843 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011045
- Description: Submerged aquatic invasive plant species are increasingly being recognised as a major threat to South African water ways. Pet stores, aquarists and the internet-mediated trade were investigated as pathways for submerged invasive macrophyte introductions into South Africa. Online and manually distributed surveys were used to determine the extent of movement of invasive as well as indigenous submerged plant species in South Africa. Sixty-four stores and twenty-three aquarists were surveyed. Four areas of risk were identified in this study. Firstly, and most importantly, a variety of invasive and/or prohibited plants are sold by pet stores. Secondly, there is a lack of knowledge regarding identification as well as regulation of submerged species, which may then result in the unintentional trade of potentially invasive species. It seems that, in many cases, the pet stores are ignorant or misinformed of the potential dangers, rather than intentionally attempting to breach the legislation. Thirdly, aquarists own, trade and move plants in and around the country, which makes it very difficult to monitor which species are being moved around South Africa and to what extent. Finally, the internet is a pathway of potential concern, but it is difficult to quantify its contribution to the trade of invasive species in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Martin, Grant D , Coetzee, Julie A
- Date: 2011
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6843 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011045
- Description: Submerged aquatic invasive plant species are increasingly being recognised as a major threat to South African water ways. Pet stores, aquarists and the internet-mediated trade were investigated as pathways for submerged invasive macrophyte introductions into South Africa. Online and manually distributed surveys were used to determine the extent of movement of invasive as well as indigenous submerged plant species in South Africa. Sixty-four stores and twenty-three aquarists were surveyed. Four areas of risk were identified in this study. Firstly, and most importantly, a variety of invasive and/or prohibited plants are sold by pet stores. Secondly, there is a lack of knowledge regarding identification as well as regulation of submerged species, which may then result in the unintentional trade of potentially invasive species. It seems that, in many cases, the pet stores are ignorant or misinformed of the potential dangers, rather than intentionally attempting to breach the legislation. Thirdly, aquarists own, trade and move plants in and around the country, which makes it very difficult to monitor which species are being moved around South Africa and to what extent. Finally, the internet is a pathway of potential concern, but it is difficult to quantify its contribution to the trade of invasive species in South Africa.
- Full Text:
Photocatalytic behaviour of tantalum (V) phthalocyanines in the presence of gold nanoparticles towards the oxidation of cyclohexene
- Chauke, Vongani P, Antunes, Edith M, Chidawanyika, Wadzanai J U, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Chauke, Vongani P , Antunes, Edith M , Chidawanyika, Wadzanai J U , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/247904 , vital:51628 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molcata.2010.11.023"
- Description: This paper presents the photocatalytic oxidation of cyclohexene using (OH)3TaPc derivatives in the absence or presence of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). The photochemical parameters that include photodegradation (ΦP) and singlet oxygen (ΦΔ) quantum yields are also reported in this work. The ΦΔ values were 0.47 and 0.36 for complexes 1a and 1b, respectively. The ΦΔ values improved drastically in the presence of AuNPs to 0.75 and 0.88, respectively. The ΦP values ranged from 1.02 to 2.45 × 10−6, showing stability of TaPc derivatives in the absence and presence of AuNPs. The photocatalytic products identified using gas chromatograph (GC) are cyclohexene oxide, 2-cyclohexen-1-ol, 2-cyclohexene-1-one and 1,2-cyclohexanediol. The percentage conversion values were higher in the presence of AuNPs. Singlet oxygen was determined to be the main agent involved in the photocatalytic oxidation of cyclohexene. The product yield percentage values for both TaPc complexes (1a and 1b) and TaPc in the presence of AuNPs ranged from 6.3 to 21.2%.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Chauke, Vongani P , Antunes, Edith M , Chidawanyika, Wadzanai J U , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/247904 , vital:51628 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molcata.2010.11.023"
- Description: This paper presents the photocatalytic oxidation of cyclohexene using (OH)3TaPc derivatives in the absence or presence of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). The photochemical parameters that include photodegradation (ΦP) and singlet oxygen (ΦΔ) quantum yields are also reported in this work. The ΦΔ values were 0.47 and 0.36 for complexes 1a and 1b, respectively. The ΦΔ values improved drastically in the presence of AuNPs to 0.75 and 0.88, respectively. The ΦP values ranged from 1.02 to 2.45 × 10−6, showing stability of TaPc derivatives in the absence and presence of AuNPs. The photocatalytic products identified using gas chromatograph (GC) are cyclohexene oxide, 2-cyclohexen-1-ol, 2-cyclohexene-1-one and 1,2-cyclohexanediol. The percentage conversion values were higher in the presence of AuNPs. Singlet oxygen was determined to be the main agent involved in the photocatalytic oxidation of cyclohexene. The product yield percentage values for both TaPc complexes (1a and 1b) and TaPc in the presence of AuNPs ranged from 6.3 to 21.2%.
- Full Text:
Photocatalytic transformation of chlorophenols under homogeneous and heterogeneous conditions using palladium octadodecylthio phthalocyanine
- Ogunbayo, Taofeek B, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Ogunbayo, Taofeek B , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/246816 , vital:51516 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molcata.2011.09.003"
- Description: Homogeneous and heterogeneous photosensitized transformations of 4-chlorophenol (4-CP) and pentachlorophenol (PCP) using palladium octadodecylthiophthalocyanine (PdODPc) were investigated. Under heterogeneous conditions, the photosensitizer was supported on functionalized single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). Homogeneous photosensitization proved to be more effective than the heterogeneous reaction in terms of percentage of transformation achieved. The kinetics of heterogeneous catalysis proved that ads-PdODPc–SWCNT–COOH (where SWCNT has been functionalized with COOH groups) was reusable for 4-CP while its activity degenerated when reused for PCP. Singlet oxygen was confirmed as playing an active role in the reactions.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ogunbayo, Taofeek B , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/246816 , vital:51516 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molcata.2011.09.003"
- Description: Homogeneous and heterogeneous photosensitized transformations of 4-chlorophenol (4-CP) and pentachlorophenol (PCP) using palladium octadodecylthiophthalocyanine (PdODPc) were investigated. Under heterogeneous conditions, the photosensitizer was supported on functionalized single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). Homogeneous photosensitization proved to be more effective than the heterogeneous reaction in terms of percentage of transformation achieved. The kinetics of heterogeneous catalysis proved that ads-PdODPc–SWCNT–COOH (where SWCNT has been functionalized with COOH groups) was reusable for 4-CP while its activity degenerated when reused for PCP. Singlet oxygen was confirmed as playing an active role in the reactions.
- Full Text:
Photophysical and photochemical behavior of electrospun fibers of a polyurethane polymer chemically linked to lutetium carboxyphenoxy phthalocyanine
- Zugle, Ruphino, Litwinski, Christian, Torto, Nelson, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Zugle, Ruphino , Litwinski, Christian , Torto, Nelson , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/248428 , vital:51685 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1039/C1NJ20126C"
- Description: A phthalocyanine complex of lutetium substituted with four peripherally substituted 4-carboxyphenoxy groups was synthesized using cyclotetramerisation reaction. Its structure was elucidated using conventional spectroscopic methods and elemental analysis. The spectral behavior of the complex was studied in DMF solution and in a solid polyurethane fiber matrix. The UV-Visible spectrum showed a red shift in its Q-band maximum absorption within the fiber as compared to that in solution. The triplet quantum yield in DMF was determined to be 0.51 with a lifetime of 2.7 μs and a singlet oxygen quantum yield of 0.33 with a lifetime of 19.85 μs in the same solvent. The functionalized phthalocyanine fiber could be a promising fabric material for applications such as self-disinfecting in wound dressing. A method based on the conversion of ADMA was used to estimate the singlet oxygen quantum yield of the Pc in the hybrid fiber. An estimated singlet oxygen quantum yield value of 0.11 in aqueous medium was obtained. The fluorescence quantum yield of the Pc was found to be 0.01 with a lifetime of 3.20 ns in DMF.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Zugle, Ruphino , Litwinski, Christian , Torto, Nelson , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/248428 , vital:51685 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1039/C1NJ20126C"
- Description: A phthalocyanine complex of lutetium substituted with four peripherally substituted 4-carboxyphenoxy groups was synthesized using cyclotetramerisation reaction. Its structure was elucidated using conventional spectroscopic methods and elemental analysis. The spectral behavior of the complex was studied in DMF solution and in a solid polyurethane fiber matrix. The UV-Visible spectrum showed a red shift in its Q-band maximum absorption within the fiber as compared to that in solution. The triplet quantum yield in DMF was determined to be 0.51 with a lifetime of 2.7 μs and a singlet oxygen quantum yield of 0.33 with a lifetime of 19.85 μs in the same solvent. The functionalized phthalocyanine fiber could be a promising fabric material for applications such as self-disinfecting in wound dressing. A method based on the conversion of ADMA was used to estimate the singlet oxygen quantum yield of the Pc in the hybrid fiber. An estimated singlet oxygen quantum yield value of 0.11 in aqueous medium was obtained. The fluorescence quantum yield of the Pc was found to be 0.01 with a lifetime of 3.20 ns in DMF.
- Full Text:
Photophysical behavior of zinc monoaminophthalocyanines linked to mercaptopropionic acid-capped CdTe quantum dots
- D'Souza, Sarah, Antunes, Edith M, Litwinski, Christian, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: D'Souza, Sarah , Antunes, Edith M , Litwinski, Christian , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/247634 , vital:51602 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jphotochem.2011.03.005"
- Description: Photosensitizing properties of zinc monoaminophthalocyanine (2) {in the absence or presence of mercaptopropionic acid (MPA) capped CdTe quantum dots (QDs)} were compared with those of mono-aminophenoxy zinc phthalocyanine (3), zinc tetrasulfonated phthalocyanine and zinc phthalocyanine. Complexes 2 and 3 were also linked to the MPA capped CdTe quantum dots through the formation of an amide bond. High triplet state quantum yields were obtained for the linked QD–phthalocyanine derivatives (complexes 2 and 3) compared to when complexes 2 and 3 were mixed with MPA QDs without a chemical bond.
- Full Text:
- Authors: D'Souza, Sarah , Antunes, Edith M , Litwinski, Christian , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/247634 , vital:51602 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jphotochem.2011.03.005"
- Description: Photosensitizing properties of zinc monoaminophthalocyanine (2) {in the absence or presence of mercaptopropionic acid (MPA) capped CdTe quantum dots (QDs)} were compared with those of mono-aminophenoxy zinc phthalocyanine (3), zinc tetrasulfonated phthalocyanine and zinc phthalocyanine. Complexes 2 and 3 were also linked to the MPA capped CdTe quantum dots through the formation of an amide bond. High triplet state quantum yields were obtained for the linked QD–phthalocyanine derivatives (complexes 2 and 3) compared to when complexes 2 and 3 were mixed with MPA QDs without a chemical bond.
- Full Text:
Photophysical behaviour of asymmetrically substituted metal free, Mg and Zn phthalocyanines in the presence of folic acid
- Nombona, Nolwazi, Chidawanyika, Wadzanai J U, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Nombona, Nolwazi , Chidawanyika, Wadzanai J U , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/247705 , vital:51608 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.poly.2010.11.033"
- Description: This work reports on the synthesis, characterisation and photophysical properties of new asymmetric metal free, magnesium and zinc phthalocyanines containing a mono carboxylic acid group for possible linking to biological molecules via an amide bond. Successful synthesis of the phthalocyanines was achieved through the statistical condensation method. The phthalocyanines were mixed with folic acid and their photophysical properties were examined. The triplet quantum yield values for all the complexes in DMSO were between 0.49 and 0.74 and in the presence of folic acid they were between 0.37 and 0.63. The lifetimes were generally good ranging from 70 to 290 μs in the absence or presence of folic acid.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Nombona, Nolwazi , Chidawanyika, Wadzanai J U , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/247705 , vital:51608 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.poly.2010.11.033"
- Description: This work reports on the synthesis, characterisation and photophysical properties of new asymmetric metal free, magnesium and zinc phthalocyanines containing a mono carboxylic acid group for possible linking to biological molecules via an amide bond. Successful synthesis of the phthalocyanines was achieved through the statistical condensation method. The phthalocyanines were mixed with folic acid and their photophysical properties were examined. The triplet quantum yield values for all the complexes in DMSO were between 0.49 and 0.74 and in the presence of folic acid they were between 0.37 and 0.63. The lifetimes were generally good ranging from 70 to 290 μs in the absence or presence of folic acid.
- Full Text:
Photophysical characterization of dysprosium, erbium and lutetium phthalocyanines tetrasubstituted with phenoxy groups at non-peripheral positions
- Zugle, Ruphino, Litwinski, Christian, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Zugle, Ruphino , Litwinski, Christian , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/247561 , vital:51595 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.poly.2011.03.030"
- Description: Dysprosium bis-phthalocyanine and monomeric phthalocyanines of erbium and lutetium with non-peripheral phenoxy substituents have been synthesized using two different preparative routes. Photophysical studies on these phthalocyanines revealed that the triplet states of dysprosium and erbium are not populated while the monomeric phthalocyanine complex of lutetium is populated with a quantum yield of 0.83 and a lifetime of 25 μs in DMSO. It was further found that the phthalocyanine complex of lutetium was capable of photochemical generation of singlet state molecular oxygen with yield of 0.71 in THF, thus a promising photosensitizer. However, the three phthalocyanine molecules have very low fluorescence quantum yields of less than 0.01.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Zugle, Ruphino , Litwinski, Christian , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/247561 , vital:51595 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.poly.2011.03.030"
- Description: Dysprosium bis-phthalocyanine and monomeric phthalocyanines of erbium and lutetium with non-peripheral phenoxy substituents have been synthesized using two different preparative routes. Photophysical studies on these phthalocyanines revealed that the triplet states of dysprosium and erbium are not populated while the monomeric phthalocyanine complex of lutetium is populated with a quantum yield of 0.83 and a lifetime of 25 μs in DMSO. It was further found that the phthalocyanine complex of lutetium was capable of photochemical generation of singlet state molecular oxygen with yield of 0.71 in THF, thus a promising photosensitizer. However, the three phthalocyanine molecules have very low fluorescence quantum yields of less than 0.01.
- Full Text:
Phototransformation of 4-nitrophenol using Pd phthalocyanines supported on single walled carbon nanotubes
- Ogunbayo, Taofeek B, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Ogunbayo, Taofeek B , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/247800 , vital:51619 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molcata.2011.01.016"
- Description: Adsorption of palladium phthalocyanines complexes on single walled carbon nanotubes was carried out. The resulting composites were employed as catalysts for heterogeneous photocatalytic oxidation of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) in aqueous media. Singlet oxygen was found to be involved in the phototransformation of 4-NP. Gas chromatographic separation gave hydroquinone and benzoquinone as the phototransformation products. Langmuir–Hinshelwood (L–H) model was employed to evaluate the adsorption and desorption equilibria of the reactants and the products. 2,3,9,10,16,17,23,24-octakis(dodecylthiophthalocyaninato) palladium(II) and 1,4,8,11,15,18,22,25-octakis(dodecylthio phthalocyaninato) palladium, containing the longest alkyl chain gave the best performances.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ogunbayo, Taofeek B , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/247800 , vital:51619 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molcata.2011.01.016"
- Description: Adsorption of palladium phthalocyanines complexes on single walled carbon nanotubes was carried out. The resulting composites were employed as catalysts for heterogeneous photocatalytic oxidation of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) in aqueous media. Singlet oxygen was found to be involved in the phototransformation of 4-NP. Gas chromatographic separation gave hydroquinone and benzoquinone as the phototransformation products. Langmuir–Hinshelwood (L–H) model was employed to evaluate the adsorption and desorption equilibria of the reactants and the products. 2,3,9,10,16,17,23,24-octakis(dodecylthiophthalocyaninato) palladium(II) and 1,4,8,11,15,18,22,25-octakis(dodecylthio phthalocyaninato) palladium, containing the longest alkyl chain gave the best performances.
- Full Text:
Physical, political and local practice factors as barriers to agricultural development: a case of the Kat River valley, South Africa
- Mbatha, Cyril N, Antrobus, Geoffrey G
- Authors: Mbatha, Cyril N , Antrobus, Geoffrey G
- Date: 2011
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/142947 , vital:38178 , DOI: 10.2174/1874923201104010091
- Description: The Kat River Valley, in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, provided a case study against which propositions of determinants of economic development were tested. Physical location was found to matter in determining the level of development and economic leverage which Middle Kat farmers had compared to those downstream in accordance with Bromley's (1982) proposition. Physical location, however, was not a determining factor for farmers in the Upper Kat River who were the least developed. As predicted by Ostrom (1990), high transaction costs stemming from information asymmetries, selfish interests coupled with poor leadership, an unequal distribution of power and the flouting of formal agreements ensured the demise of a once successful Hacop project in the Upper Kat. Finally, Hirschman's (1960) much earlier line of argument was supported in that the nature of proposed development programmes and the compatibility with community values or ‘self images’ contributed to the lack of success of an externally initiated development effort. The findings and conclusion serve an important lesson to economic researchers and decision makers not to duplicate policies for implementation in all geographical and social contexts on the basis of their success elsewhere.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mbatha, Cyril N , Antrobus, Geoffrey G
- Date: 2011
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/142947 , vital:38178 , DOI: 10.2174/1874923201104010091
- Description: The Kat River Valley, in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, provided a case study against which propositions of determinants of economic development were tested. Physical location was found to matter in determining the level of development and economic leverage which Middle Kat farmers had compared to those downstream in accordance with Bromley's (1982) proposition. Physical location, however, was not a determining factor for farmers in the Upper Kat River who were the least developed. As predicted by Ostrom (1990), high transaction costs stemming from information asymmetries, selfish interests coupled with poor leadership, an unequal distribution of power and the flouting of formal agreements ensured the demise of a once successful Hacop project in the Upper Kat. Finally, Hirschman's (1960) much earlier line of argument was supported in that the nature of proposed development programmes and the compatibility with community values or ‘self images’ contributed to the lack of success of an externally initiated development effort. The findings and conclusion serve an important lesson to economic researchers and decision makers not to duplicate policies for implementation in all geographical and social contexts on the basis of their success elsewhere.
- Full Text:
Polygamy in the recognition of Customary Marriages Act:
- Authors: Vincent, Louise
- Date: 2011
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/141809 , vital:38006 , DOI: 10.1080/10130950.2009.9676275
- Description: The Recognition of Customary Marriages Act (RCMA) 1998, recognises customary marriages which are “negotiated, celebrated or concluded according to any of the systems of indigenous African customary law which exist in South Africa” including polygamous marriages. The Act arises in the context of South Africa's Constitution which bans discrimination on grounds of culture and sexual orientation and allows for heterogeneity in its definitions of marriage and the family. A pluralist approach to family jurisprudence, however, is sometimes conceived of as setting up an irresolvable tension between the constitutional commitment to gender equality and protection for patriarchal prerogatives sanctioned by customary law. The fact that rights sometimes collide with one another is one of the reasons why it is impossible always to treat rights as absolute. When rights clash the question that arises is which of the rights that find themselves in tension with one another should give way and why?
- Full Text:
- Authors: Vincent, Louise
- Date: 2011
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/141809 , vital:38006 , DOI: 10.1080/10130950.2009.9676275
- Description: The Recognition of Customary Marriages Act (RCMA) 1998, recognises customary marriages which are “negotiated, celebrated or concluded according to any of the systems of indigenous African customary law which exist in South Africa” including polygamous marriages. The Act arises in the context of South Africa's Constitution which bans discrimination on grounds of culture and sexual orientation and allows for heterogeneity in its definitions of marriage and the family. A pluralist approach to family jurisprudence, however, is sometimes conceived of as setting up an irresolvable tension between the constitutional commitment to gender equality and protection for patriarchal prerogatives sanctioned by customary law. The fact that rights sometimes collide with one another is one of the reasons why it is impossible always to treat rights as absolute. When rights clash the question that arises is which of the rights that find themselves in tension with one another should give way and why?
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Population assessments of priority plant species used by local communities in and around three Wild Coast reserves, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Fearon, Joclyn Joe
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Plant diversity conservation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rare plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Population viability analysis , Biodiversity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Plant conservation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Conservation of natural resources -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Human-plant relationships -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4751 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007059 , Plant diversity conservation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rare plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Population viability analysis , Biodiversity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Plant conservation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Conservation of natural resources -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Human-plant relationships -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The project was initiated by Eastern Cape Parks (ECP) as a request for the construction of inventories of priority species and their population levels inside three nature reserves on the Eastern Cape Wild Coast, South Africa, and to develop a strategic management plan to manage these natural resources in each reserve. Thirty key species were identified by local communities in and around Dwesa-Cwebe, Silaka and Mkambati Nature Reserves through community workshops. For forested areas belt transects of 100 m x 6 m where used. The basal circumference of key tree species within the belt transect was measured as well as the height of saplings (height < 150 m). Tree species were categorized based on densities, size class distribution (SCD) curves and values, and spatial grain. For grassland areas straight transects of 200 m long were used, along which ten 3 m x 3 m quadrates were placed at 20 m intervals. Within each grassland transect the height of herbs or tuft diameter of grasses was recorded and percentage cover estimated. Grassland species were categorized based on density, SCD curves and percentage cover. All species were placed into harvesting categories based on analysed ecological data that was collected in the field. Category 1 species were very rare or not found in the reserve and it was recommended that species be conserved and monitored. Category 2 species had low densities in the reserve indicating declining populations and was suggested that these be monitored and not harvested. Category 3 species had high densities and have potential for harvesting with strict limitations. Category 4 species were most abundant with very high densities and can be harvested within management guidelines. These categories were grouped further using social and ecological data such as harvesting risk, frequency of collection, use value and number of uses. This highlighted which species have conservation priority within each category and a decision can be made as to how intense or limited extraction should be. By incorporating GIS the distribution of each species was looked at and harvesting and non-harvesting zones established to determine where species can be extracted. Monitoring plans must consider the quantity of plant material collected, fire regimes, optimal harvesting rates and harvesting zones, and be able to pick up changes in populations. Also, it is important that the community be involved in conserving and monitoring these species. Adaptive monitoring and management must be used to steer harvesting practices in the Wild Coast reserves. This allows for the development of harvesting practices through ‘learning by doing’, and the evolution of good questions to guide monitoring decisions
- Full Text:
- Authors: Fearon, Joclyn Joe
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Plant diversity conservation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rare plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Population viability analysis , Biodiversity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Plant conservation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Conservation of natural resources -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Human-plant relationships -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4751 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007059 , Plant diversity conservation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rare plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Population viability analysis , Biodiversity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Plant conservation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Conservation of natural resources -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Human-plant relationships -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The project was initiated by Eastern Cape Parks (ECP) as a request for the construction of inventories of priority species and their population levels inside three nature reserves on the Eastern Cape Wild Coast, South Africa, and to develop a strategic management plan to manage these natural resources in each reserve. Thirty key species were identified by local communities in and around Dwesa-Cwebe, Silaka and Mkambati Nature Reserves through community workshops. For forested areas belt transects of 100 m x 6 m where used. The basal circumference of key tree species within the belt transect was measured as well as the height of saplings (height < 150 m). Tree species were categorized based on densities, size class distribution (SCD) curves and values, and spatial grain. For grassland areas straight transects of 200 m long were used, along which ten 3 m x 3 m quadrates were placed at 20 m intervals. Within each grassland transect the height of herbs or tuft diameter of grasses was recorded and percentage cover estimated. Grassland species were categorized based on density, SCD curves and percentage cover. All species were placed into harvesting categories based on analysed ecological data that was collected in the field. Category 1 species were very rare or not found in the reserve and it was recommended that species be conserved and monitored. Category 2 species had low densities in the reserve indicating declining populations and was suggested that these be monitored and not harvested. Category 3 species had high densities and have potential for harvesting with strict limitations. Category 4 species were most abundant with very high densities and can be harvested within management guidelines. These categories were grouped further using social and ecological data such as harvesting risk, frequency of collection, use value and number of uses. This highlighted which species have conservation priority within each category and a decision can be made as to how intense or limited extraction should be. By incorporating GIS the distribution of each species was looked at and harvesting and non-harvesting zones established to determine where species can be extracted. Monitoring plans must consider the quantity of plant material collected, fire regimes, optimal harvesting rates and harvesting zones, and be able to pick up changes in populations. Also, it is important that the community be involved in conserving and monitoring these species. Adaptive monitoring and management must be used to steer harvesting practices in the Wild Coast reserves. This allows for the development of harvesting practices through ‘learning by doing’, and the evolution of good questions to guide monitoring decisions
- Full Text:
Porphyrin nanorods modified glassy carbon electrode for the electrocatalysis of dioxygen, methanol and hydrazine
- George, Reama C, Mugadza, Tawanda, Khene, Samson, Egharevba, Gabriel O, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: George, Reama C , Mugadza, Tawanda , Khene, Samson , Egharevba, Gabriel O , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/247388 , vital:51576 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1002/elan.201100081"
- Description: Porphyrin nanorods (PNR) were prepared by ionic self-assembly of two oppositely charged porphyrin molecules consisting of free base meso-tetraphenylsulfonate porphyrin (H4TPPS42−) and meso-tetra(N-methyl-4-pyridyl) porphyrin (MTMePyP4+M=Sn, Mn, In, Co). These consist of H4TPPS42−SnTMePyP4+, H4TPPS42−CoTMePyP4+, H4TPPS42−InTMePyP4+ and H4TPPS42−MnTMePyP4+ porphyrin nanorods. The absorption spectra and transmission electron microscopic (TEM) images of these structures were obtained. These porphyrin nanostructures were used to modify a glassy carbon electrode for the electrocatalytic reduction of oxygen, and the oxidation of hydrazine and methanol at low pH. The cyclic voltammogram of PNR-modified GCE in pH 2 buffer solution has five irreversible processes, two distinct reduction processes and three oxidation processes. The porphyrin nanorods modified GCE produce good responses especially towards oxygen reduction at −0.50 V vs. Ag|AgCl (3 M KCl). The process of electrocatalytic oxidation of methanol using PNR-modified GCE begins at 0.71 V vs. Ag|AgCl (3 M KCl). The electrochemical oxidation of hydrazine began at around 0.36 V on H4TPPS42−SnTMePyP4+ modified GCE. The GCE modified with H4TPPS42−CoTMePyP4+ H4TPPS42−InTMePyP4+ and H4TPPS42−MnTMePyP4+ porphyrin nanorods began oxidizing hydrazine at 0.54 V, 0.59 V and 0.56 V, respectively.
- Full Text:
- Authors: George, Reama C , Mugadza, Tawanda , Khene, Samson , Egharevba, Gabriel O , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/247388 , vital:51576 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1002/elan.201100081"
- Description: Porphyrin nanorods (PNR) were prepared by ionic self-assembly of two oppositely charged porphyrin molecules consisting of free base meso-tetraphenylsulfonate porphyrin (H4TPPS42−) and meso-tetra(N-methyl-4-pyridyl) porphyrin (MTMePyP4+M=Sn, Mn, In, Co). These consist of H4TPPS42−SnTMePyP4+, H4TPPS42−CoTMePyP4+, H4TPPS42−InTMePyP4+ and H4TPPS42−MnTMePyP4+ porphyrin nanorods. The absorption spectra and transmission electron microscopic (TEM) images of these structures were obtained. These porphyrin nanostructures were used to modify a glassy carbon electrode for the electrocatalytic reduction of oxygen, and the oxidation of hydrazine and methanol at low pH. The cyclic voltammogram of PNR-modified GCE in pH 2 buffer solution has five irreversible processes, two distinct reduction processes and three oxidation processes. The porphyrin nanorods modified GCE produce good responses especially towards oxygen reduction at −0.50 V vs. Ag|AgCl (3 M KCl). The process of electrocatalytic oxidation of methanol using PNR-modified GCE begins at 0.71 V vs. Ag|AgCl (3 M KCl). The electrochemical oxidation of hydrazine began at around 0.36 V on H4TPPS42−SnTMePyP4+ modified GCE. The GCE modified with H4TPPS42−CoTMePyP4+ H4TPPS42−InTMePyP4+ and H4TPPS42−MnTMePyP4+ porphyrin nanorods began oxidizing hydrazine at 0.54 V, 0.59 V and 0.56 V, respectively.
- Full Text:
Post-impoundment population dynamics of non-native common carp Cyprinus Carpio in relation to two large native cyprinids in Lake Gariep, South Africa
- Authors: Winker, Henning
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Cyprinidae -- South Africa -- Gariep Dam Carp -- South Africa -- Gariep Dam Fish populations -- South Africa -- Gariep Dam Fishes -- Physiology -- South Africa -- Gariep Dam Barbus aeneus -- South Africa -- Gariep Dam Mudfishes -- South Africa -- Gariep Dam Freshwater fishes -- South Africa -- Gariep Dam
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5311 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005156
- Description: To contribute to the understanding of the invasion biology of common carp Cyprinus carpio in southern Africa, this thesis investigated the life history, relative abundance, long-term population demographics and trophic niche utilisations of non-native common carp C. carpio in relation to two endemic cyprinids, Orange River mudfish Labeo capensis and smallmouth yellowfish Labeobarbus aeneus in South Africa‟s largest impoundment, Lake Gariep. The growth zone deposition rates in astericus otoliths of the three species were validated as biannual for C. carpio and as annual for L. capensis and L. aeneus, which allowed for reliable estimation of lengths-at-age upon which growth, age-at-maturity and mortality rates could be estimated. Cyprinus carpio exhibited fast growth, matured relatively early at two years of age and attained a maximum age of seven years. Labeo capensis grew significantly slower, but attained older ages of up to 12 years. Females showed notably delayed maturation at approximately six years of age. The life history parameter estimates for L. aeneus were similar to those of L. capensis. These species-specific life history characteristics contributed to a substantially higher population growth potential of C. carpio compared to L. capensis and L. aeneus. Delta-lognormal and delta-gamma Generalized Linear Models (GLMs) were used to analyse patterns of relative abundance of L. capensis, L. aeneus and C. carpio. The application of these GLMs was necessary to account for large proportions of zeros and strong skewness in the catch-per-unit-effort (CPUE) from experimental gillnet and fisheries-dependent angler surveys. Confidence intervals around predicted abundance indices were obtained through the development of a generalised parametric bootstrap procedure. The resulting standardised abundance indices were coupled with results from analysis of stable isotope ratios of fish tissues and potential food resources and revealed that C. carpio was mainly confined to soft-bottom habitats, where it predominantly foraged on benthic invertebrates. Labeo capensis was abundant in a wide range of benthic habitats and was consumed basal food resources such as detritus. Labeobarbus aeneus was found to feed mostly on pelagic zooplankton. There were no significant interspecific differences in trophic niche space, suggesting limited resource competition among the three species. Standardised historical and contemporary gillnet CPUE data indicated slow population growth rates of L. capensis and L. aeneus during the first ten years postimpoundment, but showed high biomass levels some four decades after impoundment. These results could be corroborated by stochastic age-structured production model (ASPM) simulations. In contrast to the two endemic species, the gillnet CPUE of C. carpio showed a clear „boom and bust‟ pattern, which, based on ASPM simulations, could be best explained by increased food availability during the first five years postimpoundment, followed by suboptimal conditions thereafter. Together, these results provided evidence that the establishment of the C. carpio population did not prevent the slow but successful long-term establishment of the two large endemic cyprinids. Both endemic fishes revealed specialised feeding within the impoundment.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Winker, Henning
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Cyprinidae -- South Africa -- Gariep Dam Carp -- South Africa -- Gariep Dam Fish populations -- South Africa -- Gariep Dam Fishes -- Physiology -- South Africa -- Gariep Dam Barbus aeneus -- South Africa -- Gariep Dam Mudfishes -- South Africa -- Gariep Dam Freshwater fishes -- South Africa -- Gariep Dam
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5311 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005156
- Description: To contribute to the understanding of the invasion biology of common carp Cyprinus carpio in southern Africa, this thesis investigated the life history, relative abundance, long-term population demographics and trophic niche utilisations of non-native common carp C. carpio in relation to two endemic cyprinids, Orange River mudfish Labeo capensis and smallmouth yellowfish Labeobarbus aeneus in South Africa‟s largest impoundment, Lake Gariep. The growth zone deposition rates in astericus otoliths of the three species were validated as biannual for C. carpio and as annual for L. capensis and L. aeneus, which allowed for reliable estimation of lengths-at-age upon which growth, age-at-maturity and mortality rates could be estimated. Cyprinus carpio exhibited fast growth, matured relatively early at two years of age and attained a maximum age of seven years. Labeo capensis grew significantly slower, but attained older ages of up to 12 years. Females showed notably delayed maturation at approximately six years of age. The life history parameter estimates for L. aeneus were similar to those of L. capensis. These species-specific life history characteristics contributed to a substantially higher population growth potential of C. carpio compared to L. capensis and L. aeneus. Delta-lognormal and delta-gamma Generalized Linear Models (GLMs) were used to analyse patterns of relative abundance of L. capensis, L. aeneus and C. carpio. The application of these GLMs was necessary to account for large proportions of zeros and strong skewness in the catch-per-unit-effort (CPUE) from experimental gillnet and fisheries-dependent angler surveys. Confidence intervals around predicted abundance indices were obtained through the development of a generalised parametric bootstrap procedure. The resulting standardised abundance indices were coupled with results from analysis of stable isotope ratios of fish tissues and potential food resources and revealed that C. carpio was mainly confined to soft-bottom habitats, where it predominantly foraged on benthic invertebrates. Labeo capensis was abundant in a wide range of benthic habitats and was consumed basal food resources such as detritus. Labeobarbus aeneus was found to feed mostly on pelagic zooplankton. There were no significant interspecific differences in trophic niche space, suggesting limited resource competition among the three species. Standardised historical and contemporary gillnet CPUE data indicated slow population growth rates of L. capensis and L. aeneus during the first ten years postimpoundment, but showed high biomass levels some four decades after impoundment. These results could be corroborated by stochastic age-structured production model (ASPM) simulations. In contrast to the two endemic species, the gillnet CPUE of C. carpio showed a clear „boom and bust‟ pattern, which, based on ASPM simulations, could be best explained by increased food availability during the first five years postimpoundment, followed by suboptimal conditions thereafter. Together, these results provided evidence that the establishment of the C. carpio population did not prevent the slow but successful long-term establishment of the two large endemic cyprinids. Both endemic fishes revealed specialised feeding within the impoundment.
- Full Text:
Pressurized hot water extraction of nutraceuticals and organic pollutants from medicinal plants
- Authors: Mokgadi, Janes
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Functional foods Medicinal plants -- Biotechnology Extraction (Chemistry) Goldenseal Botanical pesticides Sorbents Organic solvents
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4338 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004999
- Description: This thesis explores the robustness and the versatility of pressurized hot water extraction (PHWE) for a variety of analytes and matrices. Applications discussed include: selective extraction of alkaloids in goldenseal followed by their degradation studies; in-cell clean-up of pesticides in medicinal plants employing custom made molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) sorbents; in-cell pre-concentration followed by desorption of aflatoxins in plants with MIPs; desorption of pesticides from electrospun nanofiber sorbents; and removal of templates from MIPs sorbents. It was demonstrated that selective extractions could be achieved by just changing the temperature of water while adjusting the pressure. For instance, the alkaloids in goldenseal (hydrastine and berberine), were extracted at 140 °C, 50 bars, 1 mL min⁻¹ in 15 min; organochlorine pesticides from medicinal plants were extracted at 260 °C, 80 bars, 1 mL min-1 in 10 min; while aflatoxins AFG2, AFG1, AFB2 and AFB1 were extracted at 180 °C, 60 bars and a flow rate of 0.5 mL min⁻¹ in 10 min. The selectivity of PHWE was further enhanced by combining it with selective MIPs sorbents at higher temperatutes. In-cell clean-up of interfering chlorophyll was successfully removed from the medicinal plants during pesticides analysis while clean-up of aflatoxins AFG2, AFG1, AFB2 and AFB1 was achieved in two extraction cells connected in series. Ultrasound was also combined with PHWE for extraction of hydrastine and berberine at 80 °C and 40 bars in 30 min. PHWE was further evaluated for removal of templates from quercetin, phthalocynine and chlorophyll MIPs. The templates were thoroughly washed off their MIPs within 70 min with PHWE compared to over 8 h for Soxhlet and ultrasound assisted extraction. Pesticides were also desorbed from electrospun nanofibers at 260 °C, 80 bars in 10 min employing only water at 0.5 mL min⁻¹. In the light of green chemistry, the decrease in the usage of organic solvents was 100%, resulting in no organic solvent waste.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mokgadi, Janes
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Functional foods Medicinal plants -- Biotechnology Extraction (Chemistry) Goldenseal Botanical pesticides Sorbents Organic solvents
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4338 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004999
- Description: This thesis explores the robustness and the versatility of pressurized hot water extraction (PHWE) for a variety of analytes and matrices. Applications discussed include: selective extraction of alkaloids in goldenseal followed by their degradation studies; in-cell clean-up of pesticides in medicinal plants employing custom made molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) sorbents; in-cell pre-concentration followed by desorption of aflatoxins in plants with MIPs; desorption of pesticides from electrospun nanofiber sorbents; and removal of templates from MIPs sorbents. It was demonstrated that selective extractions could be achieved by just changing the temperature of water while adjusting the pressure. For instance, the alkaloids in goldenseal (hydrastine and berberine), were extracted at 140 °C, 50 bars, 1 mL min⁻¹ in 15 min; organochlorine pesticides from medicinal plants were extracted at 260 °C, 80 bars, 1 mL min-1 in 10 min; while aflatoxins AFG2, AFG1, AFB2 and AFB1 were extracted at 180 °C, 60 bars and a flow rate of 0.5 mL min⁻¹ in 10 min. The selectivity of PHWE was further enhanced by combining it with selective MIPs sorbents at higher temperatutes. In-cell clean-up of interfering chlorophyll was successfully removed from the medicinal plants during pesticides analysis while clean-up of aflatoxins AFG2, AFG1, AFB2 and AFB1 was achieved in two extraction cells connected in series. Ultrasound was also combined with PHWE for extraction of hydrastine and berberine at 80 °C and 40 bars in 30 min. PHWE was further evaluated for removal of templates from quercetin, phthalocynine and chlorophyll MIPs. The templates were thoroughly washed off their MIPs within 70 min with PHWE compared to over 8 h for Soxhlet and ultrasound assisted extraction. Pesticides were also desorbed from electrospun nanofibers at 260 °C, 80 bars in 10 min employing only water at 0.5 mL min⁻¹. In the light of green chemistry, the decrease in the usage of organic solvents was 100%, resulting in no organic solvent waste.
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Privatisation, human rights and security: reflections on the draft international convention on regulation, oversight and monitoring of private military and security companies
- Authors: Juma, Laurence
- Date: 2011
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/128800 , vital:36160 , http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ldd.v15i1.3
- Description: Efforts to establish regulatory frameworks for private military/security companies (PMSCs), driven by public security concerns as well as private interests of the companies themselves, have yielded a number of soft law instruments. Unfortunately, most of these instruments are conditioned by the underlying interests of their promulgators and have therefore failed to establish universally acceptable regulatory standards.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Juma, Laurence
- Date: 2011
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/128800 , vital:36160 , http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ldd.v15i1.3
- Description: Efforts to establish regulatory frameworks for private military/security companies (PMSCs), driven by public security concerns as well as private interests of the companies themselves, have yielded a number of soft law instruments. Unfortunately, most of these instruments are conditioned by the underlying interests of their promulgators and have therefore failed to establish universally acceptable regulatory standards.
- Full Text:
Probing the biocompatibility of biomedical interfaces using the Quartz Crystal Microbalance with Dissipation
- Authors: Cromhout, Mary
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Biomedical materials , Nanostructured materials , Biomedical engineering , Quartz crystal microbalances , Blood proteins , Nanoparticles
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4102 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1010660
- Description: The biomedical application of nanotechnology has come into the spotlight, with the promise of ‘personalised’ therapeutics that couple early diagnosis with targeted therapeutic activity. Due to the rapid growth of the biomedical applications of nanoparticles, along with the lack of understanding concerning their interactions with biomolecules, there is a pressing need for the development of standard methods directed at investigating the effect of introducing these unique particles into the human body. The central aim of this research is to establish a platform directed at assessing the biological fate of pioneering therapeutic particulate agents, such as metallophthalocyanines (MPcs) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (FMWCNTs). In particular, we proposed, that Quartz Crystal Microbalance with Dissipation (QCM-D) technology may be employed to assess the composition of blood protein corona deposited on the therapeutic surface, and subsequently assess the biocompatibility of such particles. The proposed method of protein detection utilises the nanogram sensitivity of QCM-D technology to monitor highly specific antibody-antigen interactions. In particular those interactions which occur when probe antibodies are used to detect adsorbed blood proteins deposited on target particle-modified sensor surfaces. Protein detection analysis was directed toward identification of surface bound human serum albumin, complement factor C3c, and human plasma fibrinogen. Preliminary analysis of generic biomedical surfaces indicated human serum albumin demonstrates a higher binding affinity towards positively charged surfaces (i.e. cysteamine self-assembled monolayer), followed by hydrophobic surfaces. Detection of complement C3c, corresponded with literature, where lower levels were detected on negatively charged surfaces (i.e. mercapto undecanoic acid self-assembled monolayer), and higher levels of more hydrophobic surfaces (i.e. 11-amino undecane thiol self-assembled monolayer). Human plasma fibrinogen was observed to favour hydrophilic over hydrophobic self-assembled monolayer surfaces, which was in accordance with literature. Application of the proposed protein detection method for biocompatibility analysis of target therapeutic molecules, namely metallophthalocyanines and acid functionalised multi-walled carbon nanotubes, demonstrated a dependence on modified-surface film characteristics, such as surface charge and topography with regards to human serum albumin and human plasma fibrinogen analysis representing new insights into their potential biomolecular interactions The highest levels of detected human serum albumin and complement C3c were detected on the GePcSmix-modified surfaces. AlPcSmix-modified surfaces analysis suggested the highest levels of human plasma fibrinogen. Two methods of acid functionalisation were employed, using both nitric and sulphuric acid, and pure nitric acid. A general increase in detected human serum albumin, corresponding with an increase in functionalisation time, was observed. Complement C3c detection suggested an increase in deposited complement C3c, with increasing functionalisation time, when assessing nitric acid functionalised multi-walled carbon nanotubes, and a decrease, with increasing functionalisation time, when assessing nitric and sulphuric acid functionalised multi-walled carbon nanotubes. Analysis of human plasma fibrinogen was inconclusive, as were cytotoxicity experiments utilising MCF-7 cells in the presence of metallophthalocyanine complexes, raising simultaneously important considerations for their application and study. In the first such detailed examination of its kind it was concluded that the proposed method of protein detection, using QCM-D, allows for the rudimentary but rapid means of analysis of select protein corona deposited on particulate biomedical surfaces.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Cromhout, Mary
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Biomedical materials , Nanostructured materials , Biomedical engineering , Quartz crystal microbalances , Blood proteins , Nanoparticles
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4102 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1010660
- Description: The biomedical application of nanotechnology has come into the spotlight, with the promise of ‘personalised’ therapeutics that couple early diagnosis with targeted therapeutic activity. Due to the rapid growth of the biomedical applications of nanoparticles, along with the lack of understanding concerning their interactions with biomolecules, there is a pressing need for the development of standard methods directed at investigating the effect of introducing these unique particles into the human body. The central aim of this research is to establish a platform directed at assessing the biological fate of pioneering therapeutic particulate agents, such as metallophthalocyanines (MPcs) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (FMWCNTs). In particular, we proposed, that Quartz Crystal Microbalance with Dissipation (QCM-D) technology may be employed to assess the composition of blood protein corona deposited on the therapeutic surface, and subsequently assess the biocompatibility of such particles. The proposed method of protein detection utilises the nanogram sensitivity of QCM-D technology to monitor highly specific antibody-antigen interactions. In particular those interactions which occur when probe antibodies are used to detect adsorbed blood proteins deposited on target particle-modified sensor surfaces. Protein detection analysis was directed toward identification of surface bound human serum albumin, complement factor C3c, and human plasma fibrinogen. Preliminary analysis of generic biomedical surfaces indicated human serum albumin demonstrates a higher binding affinity towards positively charged surfaces (i.e. cysteamine self-assembled monolayer), followed by hydrophobic surfaces. Detection of complement C3c, corresponded with literature, where lower levels were detected on negatively charged surfaces (i.e. mercapto undecanoic acid self-assembled monolayer), and higher levels of more hydrophobic surfaces (i.e. 11-amino undecane thiol self-assembled monolayer). Human plasma fibrinogen was observed to favour hydrophilic over hydrophobic self-assembled monolayer surfaces, which was in accordance with literature. Application of the proposed protein detection method for biocompatibility analysis of target therapeutic molecules, namely metallophthalocyanines and acid functionalised multi-walled carbon nanotubes, demonstrated a dependence on modified-surface film characteristics, such as surface charge and topography with regards to human serum albumin and human plasma fibrinogen analysis representing new insights into their potential biomolecular interactions The highest levels of detected human serum albumin and complement C3c were detected on the GePcSmix-modified surfaces. AlPcSmix-modified surfaces analysis suggested the highest levels of human plasma fibrinogen. Two methods of acid functionalisation were employed, using both nitric and sulphuric acid, and pure nitric acid. A general increase in detected human serum albumin, corresponding with an increase in functionalisation time, was observed. Complement C3c detection suggested an increase in deposited complement C3c, with increasing functionalisation time, when assessing nitric acid functionalised multi-walled carbon nanotubes, and a decrease, with increasing functionalisation time, when assessing nitric and sulphuric acid functionalised multi-walled carbon nanotubes. Analysis of human plasma fibrinogen was inconclusive, as were cytotoxicity experiments utilising MCF-7 cells in the presence of metallophthalocyanine complexes, raising simultaneously important considerations for their application and study. In the first such detailed examination of its kind it was concluded that the proposed method of protein detection, using QCM-D, allows for the rudimentary but rapid means of analysis of select protein corona deposited on particulate biomedical surfaces.
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Prof Nyokong receives another Science award
- Authors: Matiwana, Zamuxolo
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Nyokong, Tebello , International Conference on Frontiers of Polymers and Advanced Materiel (ICFPAM)
- Language: English
- Type: Article , text
- Identifier: vital:7182 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006267 , Nyokong, Tebello
- Description: The Rhodes University professor of Medicinal Chemistry and Nanotechnology, Tebello Nyokong, says the Award for her Scientific Achievements by the International Conference on Frontiers of Polymers and Advanced Materiel (ICFPAM) is an honour, especially since it is awarded in memory of the centenary of the first Nobel Prize in Chemistry awarded to a woman: Marie Curie.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Matiwana, Zamuxolo
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Nyokong, Tebello , International Conference on Frontiers of Polymers and Advanced Materiel (ICFPAM)
- Language: English
- Type: Article , text
- Identifier: vital:7182 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006267 , Nyokong, Tebello
- Description: The Rhodes University professor of Medicinal Chemistry and Nanotechnology, Tebello Nyokong, says the Award for her Scientific Achievements by the International Conference on Frontiers of Polymers and Advanced Materiel (ICFPAM) is an honour, especially since it is awarded in memory of the centenary of the first Nobel Prize in Chemistry awarded to a woman: Marie Curie.
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Proposed South African management framework for the implementation of the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships' Ballast Water and Sediments
- Authors: Nolting, Janine
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Ships -- Fouling Discharge of ballast water -- Environmental aspects International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships' Ballast Water and Sediments Nonindigenous aquatic pests -- Law and legislation Marine fouling organisms -- Law and legislation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:786 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003907
- Description: South Africa, strategically situated at the southern tip of Africa, is edged on three sides by almost 3000 km of coastline surrounded by the Indian Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean (South African Tourism, 2011). This vast ocean expanse is responsible for conveying approximately 96% of South Africa’s exports (Brand South Africa, 2011). Despite the positive economic effects of the shipping industry, translocation of harmful organisms and pathogens via ballast water and sediments inside ballast water tanks has far reaching global environmental (and economic) impacts (Oliviera, 2008:1; David and Gollasch, 2008:1966). Ballast water is the water that is taken on in order to manage the draft of the ship, to help with propulsion, manoeuvrability, trim control, list and stability (Oliviera, 2008:2). The discharge of ballast water into the world’s oceans has resulted in the transfer of ecologically harmful sea-life into non-native environments (IMO, 2011), resulting in major environmental threats to our oceans (Bax, Williamson, Aguero, Gonzalez and Geeves, 2003:313). Various international documents have been developed to deal with the ballast water issue, culminating in the introduction of the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments (“the Convention”) in 2004. The Convention aims at achieving a reduction in the transfer and subsequent impacts of aquatic organisms via the ballast water and sediment of ships. On a local level, South Africa does not have direct legislation or regulations dealing with ballast water (Duncan, 2007:34) and relies on the combination of a number of pieces of legislation relating to environmental management, coastal management, biodiversity, alien invasive species control, port control and ship safety (National Environmental Management Act, 1998, National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004, National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal Management Act, 2009, National Ports Act, 2005 and Merchant Shipping Act, 1951). Although the Convention was ratified by South Africa in 2008 (Department of International Relations and Cooperation, 2011) it is still not in force and there still exists no other consolidated legal mechanism through which ballast water is managed. This research has investigated the various roles, responsibilities and mandates of South African competent authorities under the aforementioned legislation in managing ballast water, and has determined that there is definite legislative and institutional fragmentation as well as overlaps. A comparative analysis of management frameworks developed both locally and internationally was conducted in order to develop a management framework for ballast water management in South Africa. Various legislative, institutional and functional aspects were identified and adapted for inclusion in a South African management framework. A co-ordinated approach to ballast water management has been developed in the management framework which is anticipated to result in more definitive roles and responsibilities of the various South African departments involved in the management of ballast water and implementation of the Convention.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Nolting, Janine
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Ships -- Fouling Discharge of ballast water -- Environmental aspects International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships' Ballast Water and Sediments Nonindigenous aquatic pests -- Law and legislation Marine fouling organisms -- Law and legislation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:786 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003907
- Description: South Africa, strategically situated at the southern tip of Africa, is edged on three sides by almost 3000 km of coastline surrounded by the Indian Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean (South African Tourism, 2011). This vast ocean expanse is responsible for conveying approximately 96% of South Africa’s exports (Brand South Africa, 2011). Despite the positive economic effects of the shipping industry, translocation of harmful organisms and pathogens via ballast water and sediments inside ballast water tanks has far reaching global environmental (and economic) impacts (Oliviera, 2008:1; David and Gollasch, 2008:1966). Ballast water is the water that is taken on in order to manage the draft of the ship, to help with propulsion, manoeuvrability, trim control, list and stability (Oliviera, 2008:2). The discharge of ballast water into the world’s oceans has resulted in the transfer of ecologically harmful sea-life into non-native environments (IMO, 2011), resulting in major environmental threats to our oceans (Bax, Williamson, Aguero, Gonzalez and Geeves, 2003:313). Various international documents have been developed to deal with the ballast water issue, culminating in the introduction of the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments (“the Convention”) in 2004. The Convention aims at achieving a reduction in the transfer and subsequent impacts of aquatic organisms via the ballast water and sediment of ships. On a local level, South Africa does not have direct legislation or regulations dealing with ballast water (Duncan, 2007:34) and relies on the combination of a number of pieces of legislation relating to environmental management, coastal management, biodiversity, alien invasive species control, port control and ship safety (National Environmental Management Act, 1998, National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004, National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal Management Act, 2009, National Ports Act, 2005 and Merchant Shipping Act, 1951). Although the Convention was ratified by South Africa in 2008 (Department of International Relations and Cooperation, 2011) it is still not in force and there still exists no other consolidated legal mechanism through which ballast water is managed. This research has investigated the various roles, responsibilities and mandates of South African competent authorities under the aforementioned legislation in managing ballast water, and has determined that there is definite legislative and institutional fragmentation as well as overlaps. A comparative analysis of management frameworks developed both locally and internationally was conducted in order to develop a management framework for ballast water management in South Africa. Various legislative, institutional and functional aspects were identified and adapted for inclusion in a South African management framework. A co-ordinated approach to ballast water management has been developed in the management framework which is anticipated to result in more definitive roles and responsibilities of the various South African departments involved in the management of ballast water and implementation of the Convention.
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Psoralea margaretiflora (Psoraleeae, Fabaceae): a new species from the Sneeuberg Centre of Floristic Endemism, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Stirton, Charles H, Clark, Vincent Ralph, Barker, Nigel P, Muasya, A Muthama
- Authors: Stirton, Charles H , Clark, Vincent Ralph , Barker, Nigel P , Muasya, A Muthama
- Date: 2011
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6543 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005999
- Description: A new species of Psoralea is described. Psoralea margaretiflora C.H. Stirton & V.R. Clark is endemic to the Sneeuberg Centre of Floristic Endemism, Eastern Cape, South Africa. This resprouter is characterised by its small greenish-white flowers with a small trifid purple nectar patch and translucent veins; 5(–7)-pinnate leaflets; multi-branching erect short seasonal flowering shoots; and tall habit of many stiff bare stems with the seasonal shoots massed at the apex. It is most similar to P. oligophylla Eckl. & Zeyh., a widespread species found in the Eastern Cape. The reseeder P. oligophylla differs in its lax virgate spreading habit with numerous long glaucous seasonal shoots; single stem, 1(–3)- glaucous leaflets; more numerous white flowers; and standard petals with a purple ring surrounding a bright yellow nectar patch.
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- Authors: Stirton, Charles H , Clark, Vincent Ralph , Barker, Nigel P , Muasya, A Muthama
- Date: 2011
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6543 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005999
- Description: A new species of Psoralea is described. Psoralea margaretiflora C.H. Stirton & V.R. Clark is endemic to the Sneeuberg Centre of Floristic Endemism, Eastern Cape, South Africa. This resprouter is characterised by its small greenish-white flowers with a small trifid purple nectar patch and translucent veins; 5(–7)-pinnate leaflets; multi-branching erect short seasonal flowering shoots; and tall habit of many stiff bare stems with the seasonal shoots massed at the apex. It is most similar to P. oligophylla Eckl. & Zeyh., a widespread species found in the Eastern Cape. The reseeder P. oligophylla differs in its lax virgate spreading habit with numerous long glaucous seasonal shoots; single stem, 1(–3)- glaucous leaflets; more numerous white flowers; and standard petals with a purple ring surrounding a bright yellow nectar patch.
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Publicising chemistry in a multicultural society through chemistry outreach
- Harrison, T G, Shallcross, D E, Norman, N C, Sewry, Joyce D, Davies-Coleman, Michael T
- Authors: Harrison, T G , Shallcross, D E , Norman, N C , Sewry, Joyce D , Davies-Coleman, Michael T
- Date: 2011
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6573 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004136
- Description: Given the emphasis in Higher Education on community engagement in South Africa and the importance of international collaboration, we discuss a joint approach to chemistry outreach in two countries on two continents with widely differing target school audiences. We describe the history of the partnership between the chemistry departments at Rhodes University and the University of Bristol and provide an outline of the chemistry content of their outreach initiatives, the modes of delivery, the advantages to both departments and their students for involvement in various levels of outreach, the challenges they still face and additional opportunities that such work facilitated. The lecture demonstration 'A Pollutant's Tale' was presented to thousands of learners all over the world, including learners at resource-deprived schools in South Africa. Challenges to extend outreach activities in South Africa include long travelling distances, as well as a lack of facilities (such as school halls and electricity) at schools. Outreach activities not only impacted on the target audience of young learners, they also impacted upon the postgraduate and other chemistry students taking part in these initiatives. This collaboration strengthened both institutions and their outreach work and may also lead to chemistry research collaborations between the academics involved.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Harrison, T G , Shallcross, D E , Norman, N C , Sewry, Joyce D , Davies-Coleman, Michael T
- Date: 2011
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6573 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004136
- Description: Given the emphasis in Higher Education on community engagement in South Africa and the importance of international collaboration, we discuss a joint approach to chemistry outreach in two countries on two continents with widely differing target school audiences. We describe the history of the partnership between the chemistry departments at Rhodes University and the University of Bristol and provide an outline of the chemistry content of their outreach initiatives, the modes of delivery, the advantages to both departments and their students for involvement in various levels of outreach, the challenges they still face and additional opportunities that such work facilitated. The lecture demonstration 'A Pollutant's Tale' was presented to thousands of learners all over the world, including learners at resource-deprived schools in South Africa. Challenges to extend outreach activities in South Africa include long travelling distances, as well as a lack of facilities (such as school halls and electricity) at schools. Outreach activities not only impacted on the target audience of young learners, they also impacted upon the postgraduate and other chemistry students taking part in these initiatives. This collaboration strengthened both institutions and their outreach work and may also lead to chemistry research collaborations between the academics involved.
- Full Text: