A contribution towards the taxonomy of the ichthyoplankton species community and an understanding of its dynamics along the south-east coast of South Africa
- Authors: Wood, A D (Aidan David)
- Date: 1999
- Subjects: Fishes -- Eggs Fishes -- Larvae Fishes -- Eggs -- Africa, Southern Fishes -- Larvae -- Africa, Southern
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5342 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006124
- Description: This study was prompted by the need to remedy the situation that existed with respect to the poor status of our knowledge regarding the ichthyoplankton assemblage of the nearshore region along the south-east Cape coast of South Africa. The first chapter provides a brief introduction to the field of ichthyoplankton research and includes a summary of the status of research in southern Africa and an explanation of early life history terminology. The selection of all sample sites, times and strategies is also outlined. The study area along the south-east Cape coast with respect to its location, climate and physical oceanography is described in the second chapter, as is the gear used, bongo nets and an RMT1x6. A sampling protocol for the use of bongos from a small ski-boat, and the RMT from the research vessels, and for the handling and processing of samples was established. The selection of Middlebank as the main monthly sampling site within the Tsitsikamma National Park (TNP) was based on taxonomic diversity as well as logistical and safety constraints. The effect of mesh size and time of sampling with bongo nets on the catchability of ichthyoplankton was investigated in chapter three. Most data was accumulated during Sea Fisheries research cruises, with additional collections coming from the National Parks vessel. Although the differences were not significant, the 505 μ mesh nets captured larger larvae, with catches comprising higher percentages of flexion and postflexion larvae. Larval concentration and size were consistently greater in samples from periods of reduced light intensity, but significant differences were the exception. It was decided that sampling with 505 μ mesh nets during daylight would provide a representative sample of the available ichthyoplankton assemblage, while at the same time being the most practical and least time consuming with respect to handling, clogging and backflushing. In chapter four, the early life history stages of thiny of the seventy-five taxa sampled are described, reflecting the paucity of information which existed on the ichthyoplankton of the nearshore zone in the south-east Cape. These descriptions are seen as an important contribution towards any future research efforts in the region, but as many of these descriptions are based on few or single specimens, it is realised that the description of egg and larval stages will be an ongoing process. Based upon the data collected during this study, an ichthyoplankton species checklist was established in chapter five. Seventy-five taxa of fish larvae were identified to either family, genus or species level. A number of squid para-larvae were also encountered. Similarities and discrepancies with a previous survey in the region are presented. The temporal distribution of eggs and larvae between August 1993 and October 1996 was established, and the spatial distribution of ichthyoplankton along an offshore transect was determined between January 1995 and May 1996. Only 7 species from Middlebank and twelve from all stations combined displayed seasonal trends, with most of these being prevalent during winter months. Egg production, both over Middlebank and from all stations combined, appeared to be consistent, with no seasonal trends. Based upon the results from the offshore transect samples, it would appear that a single ichthyoplankton assemblage exists from Storms River out to fifteen nautical miles. Although a variety of statistical methods were applied to the data during this study, low egg and larval concentrations and a low sampling frequency meant that results had to be interpreted carefully. Chapter six describes the preliminary investigation into the vertical distribution of eggs and larvae. During two research cruises, discrete depth sampling using an RMT1x6 net was performed, with the majority of samples being accompanied by physical data provided by a CTD rosette sampler. No definite patterns could be seen as larval concentrations were low, and the short time scale did not allow for the identification of any diel migratory patterns. The relationship between total larvae and the physical environment was poor. The only possible relationship was that between plankton volume and total egg and total larval concentrations. The TNP may play an important role in the conservation of reef fish and the seeding of nearby fishing grounds through the export of pelagic eggs and larvae. Chapter seven describes a preliminary investigation into the dispersal potential of ichthyoplankton from the TNP. Based upon longshore currents determined from drogues, ADCP vectors and current meter readings, it was clear that if larvae were passive drifters, the potential for their dispersal from the TNP did exist. This pilot study showed that future work should concentrate not only on the oceanographic aspects, but on behavioural aspects of larvae which may enhance or retard dispersal. In the final discussion, it is emphasised that while this study went a long way to increasing our knowledge of the nearshore ichthyoplankton community, the true picture of the temporal and spatial dynamics of the species assemblage may only be revealed once more intensive sampling has been performed. The resolution of the early life history stages of the sparids and the identification of eggs to species level are seen as priorities for the near future. A complete species checklist for the TNP is provided based upon previous surveys (both on adult and larval fishes), this work and personal observations. A total of 171 species of fish from 70 families were identified, illustrating that the eggs and larvae of many species in the TNP have yet to be sampled. A brief description of the collaborative effort which is envisaged for the TNP over the next few years is provided.
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An investigation into the neuroprotective properties of melatonin
- Authors: Southgate, Garrick Steven
- Date: 1999
- Subjects: Melatonin
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3900 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003959
- Description: Until the beginning of this decade the neurohormone, melatonin, had been considered as little more than a tranquillising hormone, responsible for regulating certain circadian and circannual rhythms. In the last eight years, a whole new dimension to melatonin’s role in biological organisms has emerged. In 1991 it was discovered [1,2] that melatonin exhibited antioxidant properties. Since then, many researchers [3,4] have found melatonin to be a powerful free radical scavenger and antioxidant. In the present study, the ability of melatonin to offer neuroprotection against glutamate, N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA), quinolinic acid (QA) and kainic acid (KA) (collectively referred to as the glutamate receptor agonists) was investigated. It was first shown that stress causes an increase in circulating glucocorticoid concentrations, which resulted in an increase the number of glutamate receptors on synaptic membranes in rat brain homogenate. Melatonin acted to reduce the number of glutamate receptors present on the synaptic membranes, implying that melatonin has neuroprotective properties, as overstimulation of the glutamate receptors leads to excitotoxicity and neurodegeneration. Further investigations showed that the glutamate receptor agonists induce neurodegeneration in primary neuronal cell cultures. Both co-treatment and posttreatment with melatonin against the glutamate receptor agonists, increased neuronal cell viability in a dose dependent manner. Melatonin also appeared to offer protection against quinolinic acid-induced neurodegeneration following intrahippocampal injections of quinolinic acid. The mechanism whereby melatonin offered this protection was investigated. The glutamate receptor agonists caused an increase in intracellular calcium concentrations, which is known [5] to be responsible for initiating the excitotoxic response. Melatonin had no effect on regulating intracellular calcium concentrations Additional studies indicated that melatonin was effective at scavenging superoxide radicals. Production of superoxide radicals was induced by the glutamate receptor agonists in primary neuronal cultures. Superoxide radicals induce lipid peroxidation, which involves the destruction of lipid membranes by chain reactions. By acting as an antioxidant, melatonin was able to reduce quinolinic acid-induced lipid peroxidation in rat brain homogenate, in a dose dependent manner. Melatonin was also effective at reducing lipid peroxidation induced by the glutamate receptor agonists in primary neuronal cultures. Melatonin therefore appeared to be offering neuroprotection by removing superoxide radicals and inhibiting lipid peroxidation. It had been reported [6] that melatonin inhibits nitric oxide synthase activity. This enzyme produces the free radical, nitric oxide, and can also produce superoxide radicals. Melatonin was able to reduce nitric oxide synthase activity in a dose dependent manner. This is a novel method of neuroprotection, as melatonin was now acting as an enzyme regulator. The results obtained demonstrate that melatonin offers neuroprotection against glutamate induced excitotoxicity, by removing free radicals and preventing lipid peroxidation. The neurohormone offers further protection by decreasing the activity of enzymes that aid in the neurotoxic cascade. Melatonin is the most potent naturally occurring free radical scavenger in the body [3]. During aging, the serum concentrations of melatonin decrease [7]. During the senescence of life, free radical damage to the body is at its highest [8], while at the same time melatonin concentrations are at their lowest. Melatonin therefore shows potential for the treatment of diseases and disorders that exhibit an excitotoxic pathology.
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Aspects of condition in captive and free-ranging dolphins
- Authors: Young, Deborah Dione
- Date: 1999
- Subjects: Dolphins -- Physiology Dolphins -- Behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5799 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006117
- Description: Aspects of morphological and physiological condition of captive and net-caught dolphins were studied with respect to age, diet, reproduction and seasonal changes in environmental factors. These investigations aimed to provide base-line data on marine mammal physiological and morphological condition indices and to expand the knowledge of condition assessment of small cetaceans. By examining the interactive nature of animal condition and growth, diet and the environment, the study investigated the potential usefulness of animal condition indices to assess and monitor habitat quality. Base-line values for haematological and blood chemistry parameters were established for five captive bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), using monthly blood samples, collected between 1992 and 1995, and corresponding measures of body weight and blubber thickness; feeding, dietary energy intake, water temperature and behavioural and medical records. Curves of best fit were used to interpret trends between leukocytic, haematological and blood chemistry parameters and morphology, diet and water temperature. WBC's and WBC differential cell types were related more distinctly to clinical changes in health, than to condition. RBC, HB and PCV were useful as short-term indicators of nutritional condition, with enhanced haematological status associated with greater food intake and improved diet quality. Weight was a more effective long-term indicator of nutritional status. The importance of blubber thickness measurements as a morphological index of condition was reinforced, with relationships between blubber thickness and haematology highlighting interactions between morphological and physiological condition. The complex interactions between haematology, diet, temperature and weight emphasised the need to account for all influential factors when considering haematological condition. The blood chemistry parameters of serum creatinine, BUN, BUN:creatinine and serum albumin provided the best indication of nutritional condition and diet quality in captive dolphins. Creatinine and BUN:creatinine also reflected changes in morphological condition. Reduced ALP was associated with nutritional stress but was more effectively used as an indication of metabolism and growth activity. LDH and CPK were highly variable and fluctuated with changing activity levels, limiting their use as condition indices. Serum sodium was an important indication of diet quality and hydration status. Many of these parameters effectively illustrated that physiological condition is compromised outside of the thermoneutral zone of the species. Bottlenose and common (Delphinus delphis) dolphins, incidentally caught in shark nets, were used to investigate the condition of free-ranging dolphins. Blood samples, taken as soon as possible after capture from drowned animals, were used to analyse physiological parameters. Dissections provided morphological data. Age and dietary status were assessed using growth layer groups in teeth and stomach content analyses, respectively. Morphological measures of net-caught dolphins reflected important interactions with diet, water temperature and reproductive status. Weight, girth and blubber thickness were valuable indicators of condition, although blubber thickness and proportional blubber weight were the best indicators of nutritional status. Condition of net-caught dolphins was difficult to assess in terms of leukocytic and haematological parameters. Stress- and post-mortem-associated changes, and variable data, reduced the usefulness of some parameters. WBC counts reflected on immunological status and served to emphasise changes in health, which may lead to deterioration in condition. WBC's showed potential as indicators of habitat quality, in terms of parasite load and/or pollution. Interactions between RBC, HB, PCV, MCV and dietary, morphological and environmental factors proved valuable in the short-term. Several haematological parameters were related to morphological condition, with weight, girth and blubber thickness, showing potential as non-invasive predictors of haematological status. Relationships between haematology and water temperature implied that dolphins have physiological and environmental "zones of comfort", within which condition is optimised. LDH and CPK were elevated by capture stress and post-mortem changes. Serum sodium and plasma glucose were good indicators of short-term nutritional status, but were altered by stress, which reduced their usefulness as condition indicators. BUN, albumin, globulin, albumin:globulin, total cholesterol and triglycerides appeared to be little affected by these changes and are potentially valuable indicators of condition in net-caught and/or free-ranging dolphins, particularly with respect to nutritional condition, and associated changes in morphology. Although data were limited, these parameters show the greatest potential as physiological indicators of animal condition and environmental health. The limitations of this study are recognised, however, results highlight the feasibility of using net-caught specimens to monitor the condition of free-ranging marine mammals, and the marine habitat as a whole. Relationships established in this study will be used to elucidate further on the interactive nature of marine mammal condition and aid in the development of a non-invasive condition assessment technique.
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Aspects of the ecology of fishes associated with salt marshes and adjacent habitats in a temperate South African estuary
- Authors: Paterson, Angus William
- Date: 1999
- Subjects: Estuarine fishes -- Ecology -- South Africa , Salt marsh ecology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5365 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013010
- Description: There is a paucity of published information on fish utilization of salt marshes outside North America. This dissertation represents the first intensive examination of the ichthyofauna associated with salt marshes in southern Africa and examines the species composition, diversity, size structure, distribution and estuarine dependence of fishes that utilize salt marshes in the Kariega Estuary. The research was concentrated on Taylor's salt marsh, with comparative studies being conducted on other salt marshes and habitats within the marine dominated Kariega Estuary. The possible importance of salt marshes as feeding and refuge areas for fishes was examined, as was the role of salt marshes in the food web of the estuary. The fishes frequenting salt marshes in the Kariega Estuary were predominantly the juveniles of marine species, with Mugilidae being the dominant family. The ichthyofauna was distributed primarily in the intertidal creeks with very few specimens captured on the vegetated Spartina maritima and Sarcocomia perennis flats. The different reaches of the intertidal creek were characterised by distinct fish assemblages. The fish assemblages associated with the intertidal salt marsh creeks were significantly different from those found in the eelgrass beds, the other dominant intertidal habitat in the Kariega Estuary. The eelgrass beds were dominated by estuarine fish species and had a higher density and standing stock of fishes when compared to the salt marsh creeks. The diversity of fishes in the two habitats was however similar. The intertidal salt marsh creek ichthyofauna also differed significantly from that found in the main estuary channel. The creek ichthyofauna was dominated by 0+ juveniles while the main channel had many subadult and adult fishes. The channel habitat also had numerous large piscivorous fishes which were absent from the salt marsh creeks. The low number of piscivorous fishes, together with limited fish predation from other sources, may be the reason why salt marshes provide a refuge for juvenile fishes that frequent these habitats. Unlike previous studies on North American, Australian and European salt marshes, the dominant fish species that frequented Taylor's marsh were not recorded feeding extensively on the marsh, and those that did had a limited distribution. The role of fishes in the transfer of energy off the Kariega salt marshes is therefore likely to be minimal. A stable carbon isotope study on the dominant primary producers and consumers within the Kariega Estuary revealed that detritus originating from the high lying salt marsh plants Sarcocornia perennis and Chenolea diffusa was not utilized by fishes in the Kariega Estuary. Preliminary results indicated that the cord grass Spartina maritima may be an important energy source to the fishes in the Kariega Estuary, but further research is needed to confirm this.
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Capillary membrane-immobilised polyphenol oxidase and the bioremediation of industrial phenolic effluent
- Authors: Edwards, Wade
- Date: 1999
- Subjects: Membranes (Technology) , Effluent quality , Pollutants , Phenols , Water -- Purification
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4095 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008458
- Description: Waste-generating industrialisation is intrinsically associated with population and economic proliferation. This places considerable emphasis on South Africa's water shortage due to the integral relationship between population growth rate and infrastructure development. Of the various types of industry-generated effluents, those containing organic pollutants such as phenols are generally difficult to remediate. Much work has been reported in the literature on the use of enzymes for the removal of phenols from these waste-streams but little application of this bioremediation approach has reached practical fruition. This study focuses on integrating and synergistically combining the advantages of enzyme-mediated dephenolisation of synthetic and industrial effluent with that of membrane teclmology. The ability of the enzyme polyphenol oxidase to convert phenol and a number of its derivatives to chemically reactive o-quinones has been reported extensively in the literature. These o-quinones can then physically be removed from solution using various precipitation or adsorption techniques. The enzyme is, however, plagued by a product-induced phenomenon known as suicide inactivation, which renders it inactive and thus limits its application as a bioremediation tool. Integrating membrane technology with the enzyme's catalytic ability by immobilising polyphenol oxidase onto polysulphone and poly(ether sulphone) capillary membranes enabled the physical removal of these inhibitory products from the micro-environment of the immobilised enzyme which therefore increased the phenol conversion capability of the immobilised biocatalyst. Under non-immobilised conditions it was found that when exposed to a mixture of various phenols the substrate preference of the enzyme is a function of the R-group. Under immobilised conditions, however, the substrate preference of the enzyme becomes a function of certain transport constraints imposed by the capillary membrane itself. Furthermore, by integrating a quinone-removal process in the enzyme-immobilised bioreactor configuration, a 21-fold increase in the amount of substrate converted per Unit enzyme was observed when compared to the conversion capacity of the inunobilised enzyme without the product removal step. Comparisons were also made using different membrane bioreactor configurations (orientating the capillaries transverse as opposed to parallel to the module axis) and different immobilisation matrices (poly(ether sulphone) and polysulphone capillary membranes). Conversion efficiencies as high as 77% were maintained for several hours using the combination of transverse-flow modules and novel polysulphone capillary membranes. It was therefore concluded that immobilisation of polyphenol oxidase on capillary membranes does indeed show considerable potential for future development.
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Catalytic reactions of platinum group metal phthalocyanines
- Authors: Sekota, Mantoa Makoena C
- Date: 1999
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines Platinum group
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4396 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006151
- Description: The voltammetric behaviour of I-cysteine and other organic compounds such as hydrazine, hydroxylamine and methionine has been studied on GCE modified with phthalocyanine complexes of osmium, rhodium and ruthenium. For cysteine oxidation, the catalytic activity of the electrode was dependent the nature of the axial ligand. When cyanide and dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO) were used as axial ligands, giving (DMSO)(Cl)Rh(III)Pc, [(CN)₂Rh(III)Pc], (DMSO)₂0S(II)Pc and [(DMSO)₂Ru(II)Pc].2DMSO complexes, the peak current increased with repetitive scanning, indicating the increase in catalytic activity of the electrode after each scan. This behaviour was not observed when pyridine was used as axial ligand. The improvement of the catalytic activity of the GCE after the first scan has been attributed to the formation of the dimeric π-cation radical species at the electrode surface. Water soluble phthalocyanine complex ([(CN)₂Os(II)Pc]²⁻) and the tetramethyltetra-pyridinoporphyrazine complexes of Pd(II) and Pt(II), ([Pd(II)2,3Tmtppa(-2)]⁴⁺, [Pd(II)3,4Tmtppa(-2)]⁴⁺, [Pt(II)2,3Tmtppa(-2)]⁴⁺ and [Pt(II)3,4Tmtppa(-2)⁴⁺) have been prepared. [(CN)₂Os(II)Pc]²⁻ is soluble in water at pH greater 4 without the formation of dimers. The [M(II)Tmtppa(-2)]⁴⁺ (M = Pd or Pt) show high solubility in water and are stable only in acidic pHs. The cyclic voltammetry of the MPc and [M(II)Tmtppa(-2)]⁴⁺ complexes prepared, is also reported. The interactions of amino acids I-histidine and I-cysteine with the [M(II)Tmtppa(-2)]⁴⁺ complexes of Pd(II) and Pt(ll) were studied. All the [M(Il)Tmtppa(-2)]⁴⁺ are readily reduced to the monoanion species [M(Il)Tmtppa(-3)]³⁻ in the presence of histidine and cysteine. The rate constants for the interaction of [M(Il)Tmtppa(-2)]⁴⁺ complexes ofPt(II) and Pd(II), with histidine and cysteine range from approximately 2 x 10⁻³ to 0.26 dm³ mol⁻¹ s⁻¹. Kinetics of the interaction of [Co(Il)TSPc]⁴⁻ with amino acids, histidine and cysteine in pH 7.2 buffer were studied. The rate constants were found to be first order in both [Co(II)TSPc]⁴⁻ and the amino acid. The formation of [Co(III)TSPc]³⁻ in the presence of histidine occurred with the rate constant of 0.16 dm³ mol⁻¹ s⁻¹, whereas the formation of the [Co(I)TSPc]⁵⁻ species in the presence of cysteine gave the rate constant of 2.2 dm³ mo⁻¹ s¹. The relative quantum yield (QΔ) for singlet oxygen production by [(CN)₂Os(Il)Pc]²⁻, and [(CN)⁴Ru(II)Pc]²⁻ in DMF using diphenylisobenzofuran (DPBF) and a chemical quencher were determined. The quantum yield values were obtained as 0.39 ± 0.05 , and 0.76 ± 0.02 for [(CN₂Os(II)Pc]²⁻ and [(CN)₂Ru(II)Pc]²⁻ respectively. The differences in quantum yield values have been explained in terms of donor abilities of both the central metal and the axial ligands.
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Community based natural resource management systems : an evaluation of the campfire programme in Zimbabwe : with special reference to Omay, and Makande Communal Lands in Nyaminyami District
- Authors: Sibanda, Backson M C, 1950-
- Date: 1999
- Subjects: Natural resources -- Zimbabwe -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4866 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007432
- Description: Communal Areas Management for Indigenous Resources (CAMPFIRE) is an innovative community based natural resource management strategy which transfers management and conservation responsibility from the state to the local communities. This thesis critically examines CAMPFIRE's potential for introducing sustainable natural resource management through the detailed examination of CAMPFIRE's implementation in Nyaminyami District, which is located in the Zambezi Valley of Zimbabwe. Comparisons with other districts are made as appropriate. The theoretical framework of this research is based on an examination of common property theories, theories of bundles of rights, globalisation and the notion of global commons. It is also based on critically examining Zimbabwean, African and international literature dealing with the management of natural resources used in common. There are five specific contributions which the thesis makes. Firstly, common property management is redefined and the difference between resources used in common but which are not common property and common property resources is clarified. Secondly, the study shows that CAMPFIRE is not sustainable whilst it remains dependent on wildlife alone and on a single species - the elephant. Thirdly, the thesis has attempted to extricate the CAMPFIRE concept from the wildlife debate in which it has become entangled and, fourthly, it examines the issues of globalisation and the global commons to show how decisions made at the international level impact on resource utilisation and management at the local level. Finally, the study examines what residual Tonga indigenous knowledge still exists and which aspects can be incorporated into present management systems. Overall, the results of the research suggest that while CAMPFIRE is an innovative strategy for sustainable natural resource management it, has not achieved its major objective of becoming a grassroots rural development strategy. It has become a top down elitist programme which is NGO and donor driven and government constrained. Legislation and policy need formally to address this problem. Finally, the thesis recognises the potential of the CAMPFIRE concept, especially if the weaknesses ofthe programme are addressed.
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Development and characterisation of a membrane gradostat bioreactor for the bioremediation of aromatic pollutants using white rot fungi
- Authors: Leukes, Winston D
- Date: 1999
- Subjects: Aromatic compounds Pollutants Fungi Bioremediation Industrial microbiology Biotechnology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4032 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004092
- Description: Bioremediation of aromatic pollutants using the ligninolytic enzymes of the white rot fungi has been thoroughly researched and has been shown to have considerable potential for industrial application. However, little success in scale-up and industrialisation of this technology has been attained due to problems associated with the continuous production of the pollutant-degrading enzymes using conventional bioreactor systems. The low productivities reported result from the incompatibility of conventional submerged culture reactor techniques with the physiological requirements of these fungi which have evolved on a solid-air interface, viz. wood. The enzymes are also produced only during the stationary phase of growth and can therefore be regarded as secondary metabolites. This study reports the conceptualisation, characterisation and evaluation of a novel bioreactor system as a solution to the continuous production of idiophasic pollutant degrading enzymes by the white rot fungus Phanerochaete chlysosporium. The reactor concept evolved from observation of these fungi in their native state, i. e. the metabolism of lignocellulosic material and involves the immobilisation of the organism onto a capillary ultrafiltration membrane. Nutrient gradients established across the biofilm, an inherent characteristic of fixed bed perfusion reactors, are exploited to provide both nutrient rich and nutrient poor zones across the biofilm. This allows growth or primary metabolism in the nutrient rich zone, pushing older biomass into the nutrient poor zone where secondary metabolism is induced by nutrient starvation. In effect, this represents a transformation of the events of a batch culture from a temporal to a spatial domain, allowing continuous production of secondary metabolites over time. Direct contact of the outer part of the biofilm with an air stream simulated the solid-air interface of the native state of the fungus. In order to facilitate the practical application of the membrane gradostat reactor (MGR) concept, conventional capillary membranes and membrane bioreactor modules were first evaluated. These were found to be unsuitable for application of the MGR concept. However, critical analysis of the shortcomings of the conventional systems resulted in the formulation of a set of design criteria for the development of a suitable membrane and module. These design criteria were satisfied by the development of a novel capillary membrane for membrane bioreactors, as well as a transverse flow membrane module, which is a novel approach in membrane bioreactor configuration. For the physiological characterisation of the MGR concept, a single fibre bioreactor unit was designed, which allowed destructive sampling of the biofilm for analysis. Using this system, it was shown that distinct morphological zones could be observed radially across the mature biofilm obtained through MGR operation. That these morphotypes do represent the temporal events of a typical batch culture in a spatial domain was confirmed by following the morphological changes occurring during batch culture of the immobilised fungus where the onset of primary and secondary metabolic conditions were manipulated through control of the nutrient supply. The different morphotypes were correlated to distinct growth phases by comparison of the morphology to the secretion of known enzymatic markers for secondary metabolism, viz. succinate dehydrogenase and cytochrome C oxidoreductase. Detailed structure-function analysis of the biofilm using transmission electron microscopy and adapted enzyme cytochemical staining techniques showed that the biofilm appeared to operate as a co-ordinated unit, with primary and secondary metabolism apparently linked in one thallus through nutrient translocation. This study provided new insights into the physiology of P. chrysosp,o rium and a detailed descriptive model was formulated which correlates well to existing models of wood degradation by the white rot fungi (WRF). Evaluation of the process on a laboratory scale using a novel transverse flow membrane bioreactor showed that a volumetric productivity of 1916 U.L.⁻¹day⁻¹ for manganese peroxidase, one of the pollutant degrading enzymes, could be attained, corresponding to a final concentration of 2 361 U.L.⁻¹ This may be compared to the best reported system (Moreira el at. 1997), where a volumetric productivity of 202 U.L.⁻¹day⁻¹was achieved with a final concentration of 250 U.L.⁻¹ However, MGR productivity is yet to be subjected to rigorous optimisation studies. The process could be operated continuously for 60 days. However, peak productivity could not be maintained for long periods. This was found to be due to physical phenomena relating to the fluid dynamics of the system which caused fluid flow maldistribution, which would have to be resolved through engineering analysis. In evaluation of the MGR concept for aromatic pollutant removal, in this case ρ- cresol, from growth medium, good performance was also achieved. The VmaxKm calculated by linear regression for the MGR was 0.8 (R² = 0.93), which compared favourably to that reported by Lewandowski et al. (1990), who obtained a Vmax/Km of 0.34 for a packed bed reactor treating chlorophenol. It was concluded that the MGR showed suitable potential to warrant further development, and that the descriptive characterisation of the biofilm physiology provided a sufficient basis for process analysis once engineering aspects ofthe system could be resolved.
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Development of integrated biological processing for the biodesalination of sulphate- and metal-rich wastewaters
- Authors: Boshoff, Genevieve Ann
- Date: 1999
- Subjects: Sewage -- Purification -- Biological treatment Sulfates Mineral industries -- Environmental aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3899 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003958
- Description: The substantial pollution threat to the South African environment from acid mine drainage (AMD) effluents has been well documented. Due to the juvenile nature of acidity in these flows, any remediation strategies implemented will need to function effectively and at low cost for long periods of time. The widespread use of sulphate reducing biological systems for the treatment of such effluents, and in particular large volume flows, has been limited. The supply of inexpensive electron donor and carbon sources, as well as appropriate reactor designs capable of handling large volume flows, have been identified as among the principal factors limiting development of this technology. The broad aim of the research programme reported here was to undertake an evaluation of the feasibility of an algal-bacterial integrated ponding system for the treatment of AMD, and the waste stabilisation pond (WSP) as an appropriate reactor design for this application. The study attempted to demonstrate the feasibility of individual unit operations in a proposed process train using complex organic carbon serving as the electron donor source for the sulphate reducing bacteria (SRB). Studies were undertaken as laboratory and pilot-scale investigations. Tannery effluent was shown to be a functional carbon source for biological sulphate reduction, with effective removal of sulphate and organics being recorded. In turn, the use of biological sulphate reduction for the treatment of tannery effluent was demonstrated. Algal biomass was shown in laboratory studies to function as an effective carbon source for biological sulphate reduction. It is known that micro-algae produce large quantities of photosynthate which is released to the growth medium under conditions of physiological stress. The potential for the use of photosynthate production in high rate algal ponding systems and its manipulation and use as a sustainable carbon source for sulphate reduction was investigated. Growth of a mixed culture of Dunaliella under conditions of light, temperature and salinity stress demonstrated production of large quantities of organic carbon. However, growth was inhibited at high temperatures. An elevation of salinity levels led to a decrease in growth of Dunaliella, but to increased organic carbon production. Spirulina spp., on the other hand, grew well at higher temperatures but showed the highest organic carbon production, and release to the medium, under low light conditions. These results led to a proposed process for the integration of algal ponding into an integrated system for the treatment of AMD. The algal biomass may be fed into the anaerobic digester as a carbon source, or it may be passed into a High Rate Algal Pond (HRAP) where it is stressed to enhance the organic carbon content. This can then be fed into the anaerobic digester as a carbon source. The impact of high levels of sulphide in the water feeding to the algal growth compartment was investigated. Spirulina spp. isolated from a tannery waste stabilisation pond was shown to be a sulphidophilic strain of cyanobacterium, capable of being adapted to high concentrations of sulphide. Dunaliella salina on the other hand was less tolerant. These results demonstrated the practical use of algal biomass providing an oxygen-rich cap for odour control on the surface of the facultative pond as well for the secondary treatment of sulphide-rich overflow to the High Rate Algal Pond. The ability of micro-algae to elevate the pH of their surrounding environment was evaluated as a functional precipitant and neutralisation reagent for acidic metal containing wastewater. Spirulina spp. was shown to perform effectively. D. salina was less functional in this environment. Anacystis spp. was effective in elevating the pH of a defined medium as well as a zinc-rich effluent. These results indicated the practicality of a neutralising function for algal ponds in the treatment of AMD. Metal removal in the system was found to be a combined function of sulphide precipitation, removal by binding to micro-algal biomass and extracellular polymeric substances. The feasibility of waste stabilisation ponding technology use for the treatment of large volume AMD effluents was provisionally demonstrated. It was shown that complex carbon sources would be used as efficient electron donors for sulphate reduction. The integration of algal ponding into the system provides for the generation of a sustainable carbon source, odour control with the recycling of oxygen-rich water onto the top of the facultative pond, secondary treatment of the anaerobic digester overflow, and the neutralisation of the incoming acidic effluents and removal of heavy metals. Integration of the individual unit operations, the feasibility of which has been provisionally demonstrated in this study, into a continuous process train is being investigated in follow-upstudies.
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Electrochemical studies of metal-ligand interactions and of metal binding proteins
- Authors: Limson, Janice Leigh
- Date: 1999
- Subjects: Electrochemical analysis , Metals -- Analysis , Proteins -- Analysis , Electrochemistry -- Technique
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4551 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1018239
- Description: Electrochemical methods were researched for the analysis of metals, proteins and the identification of metal binding proteins. Adsorptive cathodic stripping voltamrnetry for metal analysis combines the inherent sensitivity of electrochemical techniques with the specificity of ligands for the nonfaradaic preconcentration of analytes at the electrode. The utility of catechol, resorcinol, 4-methylcatechol and 4-t-butylcatechol as ligands was explored for the sensitive analysis of copper, bismuth, cadmium and lead on a mercury film glassy carbon electrode. Metal complexes of lead, copper and bismuth with resorcinol showed the largest increase in current with increase in metal concentration, whereas complexes of these metals with 4-t-butylcatechol showed the lowest current response. Cadmium showed the highest current responses with 4-methylcatechol. The four metals could be determined simultaneously in the presence of resorcinol, although considerable interference was observed between bismuth and copper. The electroanalysis of cysteine and cysteine containing proteins at carbon electrodes are impaired by slow electron transfer rates at carbon electrodes, exhibiting high overpotentials, greater than 1 V vs Ag! Agel. Metallophthalocyanines have been shown to promote the electrocatalysis of cysteine at lowered potentials. Chemical modification of electrodes with appropriate modifiers is a means of incorporating specificity into electroanalysis, with applications in electrocatalysis. A glassy carbon electrode was modified by electrodeposition of cobalt (II) tetrasulphophthalocyanine [Co(II)TSPct to produce a chemically modified glassy carbon electrode (CMGCE). The CoTSPc-CMGCE catalysed the oxidation of cysteine in the pH range 1 to 10. The significance of this electrode is an application for analysis of proteins at biological pH's. A biscyanoruthenium(II) phthalocyanine CMGCE catalysed the oxidation of cysteine at 0.43 V vs Ag/AgCl a significant lowering in the overpotential for the oxidation of cysteine. Metallothionein, a metal binding protein, is believed to be involved in metal homeostasis and detoxification in the peripheral organs of living systems. A method for the quantitative determination of this protein utilising its high cysteine content was presented. At pH 8.4 Tris-HCl buffer, and using a CoTSPc-CMGCE modified by electrodeposition of the modifier, the anodic peaks for the oxidation of metallothionein was observed at 0. 90 V vs Ag/ AgCI. Ferredoxin is a simple iron-sulphur protein. One tenth of its residues are cysteine. Ferredoxin is involved in simple electron transfer processes during photosynthesis and respiration. Electrochemical studies of spinach ferredoxin were conducted at a CoTSPc-CMGCE. Anodic currents for the oxidation of the cysteine fragment of ferredoxin was observed at 0.85 V vs Ag/AgCl in HEPES buffer at pH 7.4, representing a new method for analysis of this protein. Voltammetric studies of its ferric/ferrous transition have shown quasi-reversible waves atE~ -0.62 V vs Ag/AgCl only in the presence of promoters. At a CoTSPc-CMGCE, a cathodic wave attributed to the reduction of Fe(III)/Fe(II) was observed at Epc -0.34 V vs Ag/AgCl. This represents an alternative method for voltammetric studies of the ferric/ferrous transition at significantly lowered potentials. Melatonin, a pineal gland hormone functions m setting and entraining circadian rhythms and in neuroprotection as a free radical scavenger and general antioxidant. Using adsorptive cathodic stripping voltammetry, the binding affinities of melatonin, serotonin and tryptophan for metals, were measured. The results showed that the following metal complexes were formed: aluminium with melatonin, serotonin and tryptophan; cadmium with melatonin and tryptophan; copper with melatonin and serotonin; iron (III) with melatonin and serotonin; lead with melatonin, tryptophan and serotonin, zinc with melatonin and tryptophan and iron (II) with tryptophan. The studies suggest a further role for melatonin in the reduction of free radical generation and in metal detoxification and may explain the accumulation of aluminium in Alzheimer's disease.
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Fish population dynamics in a temporarily open/closed South African estuary
- Authors: Cowley, Paul D (Paul Denfer), 1964-
- Date: 1999
- Subjects: Fish populations Estuarine ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Estuarine fishes -- Ecology -- South Africa Fish populations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5354 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008543
- Description: The primary aim of this study was to investigate the population dynamics of the fishes associated with a small (17.5 hectares) temporarily open/closed estuary on the south east coast of South Africa. The results are based on the findings of an intensive sampling programme conducted over a period of four years in the East Kleinemonde estuary (33° 32' S : 27° 03' E). By adopting a quantitative approach, this study addresses the need for information on estuarine-associated fish population sizes, standing stock (biomass) estimates and productivity. The ichthyoplankton assemblage in the surf zone adjacent to the mouth of the estuary was dominated by postflexion larvae representing at least 21 taxa in 14 families. Rhabdosargus holubi of sizes ranging between 9 mm and 21 mm BL was the most abundant species with a mean density of 7.3 individuals per 100 m'. This species, which accounted for 77.6% of the catch composition, was recorded throughout the year but revealed a distinct peak in abundance in spring (August - September). The ichthyofaunal community within the East Kleinemonde estuary was dominated by juvenile marine-spawning species and typical of a warm temperate southern African estuary. A total of 30 species in 17 families was recorded, including the endangered estuarine pipefish Syngnathus watermeyeri. Multivariate analyses (classification and ordination) of the catch assemblages revealed a high degree of similarity (> 70%) throughout the estuary, with two distinct groups being identified on the basis of substratum type. The sampling stations near the mouth with a sandy substratum were distinguished from all other sampling sites in the estuary. The dominant estuarine-spawning species were represented by all life-history stages, suggesting that they bred successfully in the estuary. This group was numerically and gravimetrically dominated by the two zooplanktivorous shoaling species Gilchristella aestuaria and Atherina breviceps with density extrapolated population size estimates of 420 973 and 198 275 individuals, and biomass estimates of 1.6 and 0.6 g m⁻² respectively. The total population size of all estuarine-spawning species with a mean biomass 00.4 g m⁻² was estimated at 754 217 individuals. Population size estimates of the marine-spawning species were calculated using data obtained from three independent mark-recapture experiments. The assumptions for the mark-recapture analyses were adequately met and it was concluded that the techniques provided reliable estimates of population size. However, estimates obtained from density extrapolation revealed enormous variability and were considered to be unreliable. The total population size was estimated at 63 342, 18 592 and 13 5 192 during the three mark-recapture experiments respectively. The numerically dominant species during all three experiments was Rhabdosargus holubi. Biomass production of the marine-spawning species was evaluated over a 123 day census period when population sizes and estimates of growth rates were known. Productivity for all fishes with a standing stock of 26.2 g m⁻² was calculated at 4.5 g m⁻² month01 Rhabdosargus holubi accounted for more than 75% of the total marine fish productivity. This study draws attention to the success of Rhabdosargus holubi in the East Kleinemonde estuary, which is ascribed to aspects of its biology. These include an extended breeding season, the ability to recruit into the estuary under adverse open mouth conditions and its omnivorous food habits. The dominance of this migratory species suggests that it plays an important role in the transfer of energy to the coastal marine environment when the mouth of the East Kleinemonde estuary opens. Predation by birds and a dominant piscivorous fish (Lichia amia) was quantitatively assessed over a period of two years. Monthly food consumption by all piscivorous birds revealed large temporal variability, ranging from 32 to 466 kg month-I An unusual invasion of Cape cormorants during the winter of 1994 accounted for large scale mortality (2246 kg of fish) over a relatively short period. The predatory impact of this episodic event was reflected in the findings of the fish mark-recapture experiments, which revealed a 70% reduction in the total population of marine-spawning fishes (above a certain minimum size) in the estuary subsequent to this invasion. Monthly food consumption by the Lichia amia population in the estuary was calculated at 68 and 58 kg month-I for two distinct time periods when the population size was known. These findings suggest that this species is the top piscivorous predator in the East Kleinemonde estuary. Finally, the findings of this study highlight the temporal variability of fish populations within a single estuary. It is suggested that predation and estuary mouth conditions are the main factors influencing the abundance (and its variability) of individual species in the East Kleinemonde estuary.
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Seeking health: the hierarchy of resort in utilisation patterns of traditional and western medicine in multi-cultural Katutura, Namibia
- Authors: LeBeau, Debie
- Date: 1999
- Subjects: Traditional medicine -- Namibia -- Katutura (Windhoek) Social medicine -- Namibia -- History Traditional medicine -- Social aspects -- Namibia -- History Medical anthropology -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:2103 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002666
- Description: This thesis examines health care choices patients make when illness and misfortune occur. Research on health seeking behaviour was conducted in Katutura (the African township outside of Windhoek in Namibia) during 1996 and 1997. Due to the availability of a wide range of health care options from both the western and the traditional medical systems, utilisation of traditional medicine represents a conscious choice by patients and is not due to a lack of other alternatives. The use of traditional medicine can therefore be attributed to social, cultural, and personal factors rather than access, cost, and distance to modern health care facilities. A set of theoretical postulates is constructed to explain health seeking behaviour, including western and African concepts of ill health, which integrates both macro and micro-level analysis. Through macro-level analysis, this model postulates that western and traditional medical systems are able to exist within a single society due to the presence of co-existing ideologies (Medical Systems Theory). This model further postulates that social change is a significant attribute of post-colonial Namibian society (Post-colonial Theory). Rapid social change causes social disequilibrium leading to insecurities within the population which increase traditional health care utilisation, especially due to witchcraft accusation. Thus, macro-level theories are used to explain the existence and form of health care alternatives in Katutura; while micro-level analysis is used to examine how people make rational health care choices based on individualised variables within the enabling and constraining umbrella of Namibia's social structure. These variables include the individual's means, goals, desires, and environment of physical and social objects. Health seeking behaviour is influenced by the individual's previous experiences (history), personal constraints, and access to information. Based on data from the 1996 Tradition and Health Survey administered as part of the research for this dissertation, a model for health seeking behaviour is developed to guide the analysis of qualitative data. This model postulates that different patterns of utilisation depend on perceived causes, reasons and origins (aetiology) as well as manifestations of illness. Some illnesses are perceived of as clearly African and some are seen to be clearly western (both of these perceptions result in a single utilisation pattern). Some illnesses have a social/spiritual aetiology but universally recognised manifestations (resulting in a simultaneous utilisation pattern), and some illnesses are of indeterminate aetiology until treatment begins (resulting in a multi-faceted utilisation pattern). In addition to a utilisation pattern based on the aetiology and manifestation of illness, previous health seeking experiences influence, to a certain extent, subsequent health care choices; whereby the failure of one medical system to produce satisfactory results can cause health seekers to shift to another treatment regimen. In Katutura choices patients make are also influenced, to a certain extent, by the urban nature of the health seeking environment. Urban patients seek traditional medicine for a range of social/spiritual aetiologies, due to rapid social change and the experience of new and threatening situations. Urban patients also have more knowledge and experience with the western concept of contagious transmission as opposed to the traditional concept of social/spiritual contamination. In addition, health seeking patterns vary slightly between the different ethnic groups in Katutura. Traditional aetiological beliefs of the different ethnic groups in Katutura are reflected in current cultural beliefs about the cause of illness.
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South African small business growth through interfirm linkages
- Authors: Toomey, David Colbert
- Date: 1999
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa Interorganizational relations Small business -- South Africa -- Growth -- Case studies South Africa -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:2836 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003046
- Description: Economic stagnation in sub-Saharan Africa since 1970 is well documented. While the causes are varied, the paradigm of nationalistic state-led economic development has changed. Economic development occurs in a global marketplace. Manufacturing has shifted from developed to less developed countries, an opportunity that was seized in Asia and Latin America. South Africa’s labour, unskilled and costly by world standards, is at a disadvantage as an agile and competitive world market seeks skilled labour at the lowest cost. South Africa’s Gear economic policy suggests that 300 000 new jobs need to be created annually until 2004 in order to reduce unemployment. Small, medium and microenterprise growth is central to meeting this target. Numerous government structures to assist small enterprises have been created. Few, however, assist small business with the demands of the marketplace. Most focus on generic skills training and questionable small business finance. This thesis suggests that interfirm linkages between large and small enterprises is one strategy that can assist the growth of small business, create employment and, increase labour skills. International experience shows that generic training is less effective in promoting small business than linking business training to actual market-demands. Interfirm linkages, most often through subcontracting, is a strategy used successfully in Taiwan, Indonesia, Malaysia and Brazil. Such linkages are usually government supported and provide incentives for both large and small businesses to work together productively. Three South African interfirm linkage case studies are critiqued. Case study findings indicate that interfirm linkages expose emerging businesses to market conditions, and can provide access to process technology training, low cost raw materials, creative finance, and new markets. Small business ‘learns by doing’ and also ‘learns while earning’. The state has a role in the development of a vibrant small, medium and microenterprise sector in South Africa. Current support strategies are largely unrelated to market conditions. Interfirm linkages are an approach that applies market forces in the development of small business. Government policy would be wisely directed to support such business interactions.
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The 2326 MHZ radio continuum emission of the milky way
- Authors: Jonas, Justin Leonard
- Date: 1999
- Subjects: Radio astronomy Southern sky (Astronomy) Milky Way
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5450 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005235
- Description: The Rhodes/HartRAO SKYMAP survey is the highest frequency (2326 MHz) and highest resolution (20 arcmin) large-area pencil-beam survey of the celestial radio continuum emission. The survey covers 67 % of the entire sky and is one of only two radio continuum surveys that cover the southern sky. These attributes make the survey eminently suitable for studying the extended radio continuum emission from the Milky Way. This thesis describes the methodology used to produce the SKYMAP survey map and presents an analysis of the galactic radio continuum emission. Mountfort (1989, PhD thesis, Rhodes University) designed and implemented the original SKYMAP observing and data reduction procedures. These original procedures have been modified and extended to accommodate instrumentation upgrades at HartRAO and take advantage of new computer technologies that have become available. A new procedure was developed to perform the merging of the ten individual target-area maps into a self-consistent combined map without discontinuities at the component map boundaries. Calibration and data quality procedures were devised and implemented in order to validate the temperature scale and pointing accuracy of the map data. The uncertainty in the relative full-beam temperature scale is estimated to be 2 % and the RMS pixel noise is less than 30 mK. The uncertainty in the zero-level of the survey map is conservatively estimated to be 80 mK. The RMS pointing accuracy is better than 1.9 arcmin. The diffuse galactic background (DGB) emission is shown to be consistent with four-arm spiral models for the Milky Way. The Gould Belt system and the galactic warp beyond the solar-circle are seen as non-symmetrical distortions in the DGB. An empirical model of the DGB was subtracted from the 2326 MHz map data in order to accentuate faint, extended radio sources. A new technique was devised to discriminate between thermal and non-thermal radio continuum emission on the basis of FIR/radio flux ratios. This procedure was used to reduce the source confusion near the galactic plane. 42 new shell-like radio sources with angular diameters ranging from 1.6 deg to 26 deg are identified in the SKYMAP 2326 MHz map. These sources are probably large-diameter supernova remnants (SNRs) that partially redress the incompleteness in existing SNR catalogues caused by limited surface brightness selection effects. The shells of some of these faint, extended sources are incomplete towards high-latitudes. This morphology suggests that these objects are breaking out of the galactic disk and are releasing hot gas into the halo. There is no evidence for linear worm- and chimney-like features in the non-thermal galactic emission. The spectral index of the diffuse galactic emission is calculated to be beta = 2.72 +/- 0.18 between 408 MHz and 2326 MHz and beta = 2.95 +/- 0.08 between 2326 MHz and 31 GHz, confirming previous work showing that the synchrotron spectrum steepens with increasing frequency. The high frequency spectral index is used to estimate upper limits on the galactic synchrotron foreground contamination of cosmic microwave background radiation measurements. The high-latitude 2326 MHz galactic emission is shown to correlate weakly with the far-infrared galactic cirrus clouds. This correlation is due to thermal free-free radio emission from extended, low-density HII regions associated with the cirrus dust. The RMS level of this thermal signal is estimated to be 1 mK at 2326 MHz. Two further experiments that need to be performed in order to complete the SKYMAP project are discussed: (a) the region of sky near the southern equatorial pole (SEP) needs to be mapped at HartRAO to complete the coverage of the entire southern sky, and (b) independent horn telescope (broad-beam) measurements of the sky temperature are required in order to reduce the baseline uncertainties in the current SKYMAP data.
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The coastal grasslands of the Eastern Cape west of the Kei River
- Authors: Judd, Rachel Anne
- Date: 1999
- Subjects: Grassland ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Grasslands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4203 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003772
- Description: The grasslands of South Africa are the foundation of commercial and subsistence agriculture yet they are being degraded at an alanning rate. The coastal grasslands of the Eastern Cape are no exception and they suffer added pressure of coastal resort development because of their proximity to an attractive coastline. In order to determine the degree of conservation necessary for any area it is essential to know what species occur there in order to determine if protection from habitat destruction is required. Four aims were defined for this studv. The initial aim was a phytogeographical classification of the grasslands in the coastal region west of the Kei River. This was done by vegetation sampling followed by computer based analysis with TWINSPAN. This analysis defined ten grassland associations. five being located in the area west of the Keiskamma River and five occurring east of it. The associations in the eastern half are termed mesic while those in the western balf are xeric. The second aim was to determine the presence of any underlying ecological gradients affecting the distribution of tbe associations. Indirect gradient analysis was carried out where samples are analysed irrespective of environmental factors. Direct gradient analysis was then carried out using scores per sample of various environmental factors. Environmental factors whicb migbt produce such gradients are both naturally-ocurring and man-induced. Natural factors which were recorded in the field include depth of soil at sample site, soil family, aspect and distance from the shore. An important factor is the land / sea interface. Natural factors analysed in the laboratory include soil pH. conductivity. percent organic matter, calcium, magnesium, phosphate and potassium. Man-induced factors are land use history e.g. Ploughing and grazing. Both direct and indirect gradient analysis were carried out with the computer based programme CANOCO. The third aim of the study was to determine the presence of any successional trends between the ten defined associations. This was done using several characteristics of the associations. Alpha and beta diversity were the first factors compared between associations. The percentage contribution of the Cyperaceae, Fabaceae, Asteraceae and Poaceae to each association was assessed and compared. The presence of various life forms of the species occurring in each association was determined together with the cover abundance of different classes of grass species. These results were then combined and analysed in the light of the results from CANOCO analvsis. They show that the mesic Themeda Iriandra - Anthospermum herhoceum, association which occurs closest to the shore and with the least disturbance is a depauperate form of the mesic climax Themeda triandra association. The mesic Hyparrhenia hirta - Dtheteropogon amplectens association may be a secondary grassland on account of phosphate and potassiun poor soils and land-use. The mesic Hyparrhenia hirta - Themedo triandra association is a slightly degraded form of the climax association due to grazing. The severely disturbed Stenotaphrum secundatum - C'entella coriacea association, which is located close to the shore, is a secondary grassland. Analysis of the xeric associations indicates a clearly defined ordination of associations on the basis of land-use. The Cynodon daclylon - Helictolrichon hirtulum and Sporobolis africanus - Setaria sphacelata associations which occur where ploughed lands have been left to lie fallow are secondary in nature. The Themeda triandra - Ehrharta calycina association is thought to be the closest representati ve of a climax xeric association but the presence of E. calycina indicates that some disturbance has occurred. The vegetation is subject to moderate grazing. The Cynodon dactylon - Ehrharla calycina and Diheleropogon filifolius - Ehrharla calycina associations are subject to varying intensities of trampling and grazing and are degraded forms of the Themeda triandra - Ehrharla calycina association. Because of tbe overriding influence of the land-use gradient separation along gradients of the remaining eight factors was limited. The effect of fire and temporal change in the mesic Themeda triandra and Hyparrhenia hirta - Themeeia trianda associations was assessed via long-term studies at Potter's Pass outside East London. The results show a quick response to burning with a return to 100% cover within six months by both associations. During spring the two associations could not be separated by either TWINSPAN or DECORANA. indicating a temporal shift from the Hyparrhenia hirta - Themeda triandra association to the Themeda triandra association. The fourth and final aim was to identify plants requiring protection from habitat destruction and to make recommendations for further conservation areas and management of the coastal grasslands. Through the collection and identification of as many plants as possible a species checklist was prepared and the status of each was determined through reference to the Red Data Book of threatened and endangered species. Kniphofia rooperi is vulnerable in the Cape and Euphorbia hupleuroides is considered rare in kwazulu-Natal. Ten species are endemic to the Cape and / or South Africa. The richness of the vegetation lies in the presence of species representative of the four major floras which converge in the eastern Cape. i.e. The Cape, NamaKarroo, Tongoland-Pondolaod floras and the Kalahari Highveld Regional Transitional Zone. Suggestions are made for the conservation of the grassland associations at various sites within the study area based on the present area conserved. Less than 2% of the coastline in the study area is conserved and it is felt that the area under conservation should be increased. Management suggestions based on the available literature are given for both farmed and conserved areas. There is a great potential for further studies on grassland dmamics within the areas surveyed. In terms of management, the grasslands require careful examination to determine the most effective season in which to burn if at all. As with most agricultural systems in South Africa. grazing strategies will benefit from further research. Any additional research on the dynamics of these grasslands can only be of benefit to the sustained utilisation of this vital resource.
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The dynamics of a subtropical lake fishery in central Mozambique
- Authors: Weyl, Olaf L F
- Date: 1999
- Subjects: Fisheries -- Chicamba, Lake Fisheries -- Mozambique
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5212 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004785
- Description: Fisheries in African reservoirs are typically multi -species and in most cases the fish resource is harvested with a number of gears. These characteristics complicate their management and the development of management procedures. Typically, long time series of data on catch and effort and length- or age-based catch are not available for these fisheries. This precludes the use of data intensive methods such as multi-species virtual population analysis. The principal aim of this thesis was to develop a management procedure for African reservoir fisheries that takes into account the pertinent biological characteristics of the target species and accounts for the multi-species and multi-gear irIteractions in such fisheries. An opportunity availed itself to undertake this work on Lake ChicaIllba (19°08'S 33°08'E) a man-made hydroelectric dam in subtropical Mozambique (Manica province). The specific objectives of this study were: to obtain locality specific biological parameters for the target species in Lake ChicaIllba; to assess gear utilisation trends in the fishery through the determination of gear-selectivity, catch rate and effort for each of the principal gears used in the fishery; to assess the fishery using traditional per-recruit models and to test existing and new per-recruit models that account for the multi-species and multi-gear nature of the fishery and to determine the adequacy of each of these approaches in the determination of suitable target reference point (TRP) exploitation rates. The three principal specIes in Lake Chicamba are the introduced largemouth bass, Micropterus salmoides, and two cichlids the Mozambique tilapia, Oreochromis mossambicus and the redbreast tilapia, Tilapia rendalli. Sectioned otoliths were used for age and growth determination. Marginal zone analysis showed that annulus formation in all three species occurred during winter. The maximum-recorded age was 5 years for M. salmoides, 16 years for T. rendalli and 10 years for O. mossambicus. Growth of the three species was best described by the 3 parameter von Bertalanffy growth model as ℓa = 465.51 (1 - e⁻ₑ·ₑ⁷⁵⁽a⁺⁰·⁰⁰⁹⁾ mm FL for M salmoides; ℓa = 238.74 (1 - e⁻⁰⁶³⁶⁽a⁺⁰·⁹⁰⁵⁾) mm TL for T. rendalli; and ℓa = 266.06 (1 - e⁻⁰⁷⁹⁰⁴⁽a⁺⁰·²⁶⁹⁾) mm TL for 0. mossambicus. Female T. rendalli attained 50%-maturity at 2.89 years, while O. mossambicus matured at 2.83 years and M. salmoides at 0.9 years. Both cichlid species spawned throughout summer while M. salmoides had a very short spawning season from August to September. The total annual mortality rate (Z) for M. salmoides in Lake Chicamba was 1.27 yr⁻¹, the mean empirical estimate of natural mortality (M) was 0.73 yr⁻¹, and fishing mortality (F) was calculated at 0.54 yr⁻¹. For T. rendalli Z = 0.31 yr⁻¹, M = 0.20 yr⁻¹, F = 0.11 yr⁻¹ and for 0. mossambicus Z= 0.62 yr⁻¹, M= 0.38 yr⁻¹, F= 0.24 yr⁻¹. The three species exhibited reproductive traits, which implied a high reliance of recruitment on spawner stock (nest guarding in T. rendalli and M. salmoides and mouthbrooding in O. mossambicus). For this reason it was decided that the cichlid fisheries should be managed using TRPs which maintained the spawner biomass-per-recruit at 50% (FSB50) of pristine levels. However, based on good evidence it was hypothesised that the high rate of fishing mortality helped to maintain the fast growth rate of M. salmoides. It was, therefore, decided to manage this species at a TRP of F SB40. The three most important fishing sectors were the gill-net, seine-net and hook-and-line fisheries. The total catch for 1996 was 223 t. The gill nets selected all three species at a size/age approximating 50%-maturity while the seine-net and hook-and-line fisheries selected mainly juvenile fishes. There was strong evidence to suggest that seine net fishing also disrupted spawning. It was shown that the 'traditional' single-species per-recruit models were unsuitable to assess multi-species and multi-gear reservoir fisheries. Since existing multi-species/multifishery yield-per-recruit models were not capable of defining FsB(x) TRPs, a new multispecies/ multi-fishery spawner-biomass-per-recruit approach was developed. This approach allowed for the simulation of the response of spawner biomass-per-recruit to changes in effort in the three fishery sectors, simultaneously. The models showed that the spawner biomass-per-recruit, at current effort levels, was higher than the suggested TRP for the three species. However, it was shown that an increase of 10% in current total effort would reduce spawner biomass-per-recruit to below the recommended TRP levels. With the closure of the seine-net fishery, gill-net effort could be increased to 338 fishers (340 for management purposes) and effort in the hook-and-line fishery could be increased by 30% before the TRP was reached. To maintain the fish stocks above TRP levels, effort control was considered to be the most effective management method. The main recommendations for Lake Chicamba were to close the seine-net fishery, to limit the gill-net fishery to 340 fishers (using 137-m long x 3-m deep gill nets) and to maintain the open access nature of the hook-and-line fishery. The multi-species/multi-fishery per-recruit approach allows for the meaningful simulation of various scenarios and provides relatively robust management options. In the absence of long time series of effort and age- or length-based catch data, this approach was considered as the most suitable assessment method for multi-species/multi-gear African reservoir fisheries.
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Understanding the image in art therapy: a phenomenological-hermeneutic investigation
- Authors: Douglas, Blanche Daw
- Date: 1999
- Subjects: Art therapy Art -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:2966 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002475
- Description: Part One of the research seeks to establish a context wherein certain assumptions pertaining to the interpretative dimensions of understanding the image in art therapy can be considered and reviewed. Notions about the image, meaning and reality are discussed both in terms of how they relate to current art therapy practice, and how they may be alternatively thought about, both from the perspective of ancient Hellenic Greek thought, and more contemporary thought, particularly that of phenomenological and philosophical-hermeneutics. Part Two of the research investigates the phenomenon of understanding the image in an art therapy situation, with a view to reconsidering certain of the assumptions raised in the first part of the thesis (phrased in the form of research questions). It did this utilizing a qualitative method, by exposing four respondents (patients), and two therapists to an art therapy situation in which images were created out of clay. The respondents (patients) and therapists articulated their understanding of the image production procedure, and the meaning of the images created. The way understanding occurred in the empirical part of the research was explained and illustrated by means of the hermeneutic circle, which was operational on a number of different levels. The results of the research suggest that the meaning of the image in art therapy is a creative synthesis, which emerges from within a dialectics of exchange. This exchange involves a number of meaning-generating contexts, of which the patient’s experience, and the therapist’s knowledge, form only a part. The outcome of this exchange is the derived meaning of the image, which represents a ‘fictional’ world that gives the patient and therapist a way of understanding the patient’s situation. The process of the research, which investigates the way understanding of the image in art therapy occurs, is at the same time, an application of the principles of understanding
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