5-Fu inclusion complex capped gold nanoparticles for breast cancer therapy
- Lakkakula, Jaya R, Krause, Rui W M, Divakaran, Deepika, Barage, Sagar, Srivastava, Rohit
- Authors: Lakkakula, Jaya R , Krause, Rui W M , Divakaran, Deepika , Barage, Sagar , Srivastava, Rohit
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/191713 , vital:45150 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molliq.2021.117262"
- Description: We have attempted to prolong the circulation time and increase the solubility of 5-Fluorouracil by complexing it with cyclodextrin and then further conjugating onto the gold nanoparticle to form 5Fu ICAu. The 1H NMR and molecular docking studies suggested that 5-Fu was included within the 2HP-β-CD cavity and H-5 proton probably serves as the binding site for stabilization of the inclusion complex. The 5Fu-ICAu showed higher cell inhibition rate when studied on MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines due to the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect by allowing the selective accumulation of nanoparticles at tumor site. This unique system can serve as a novel nanocarrier for delivery of hydrophobic drugs.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Lakkakula, Jaya R , Krause, Rui W M , Divakaran, Deepika , Barage, Sagar , Srivastava, Rohit
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/191713 , vital:45150 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molliq.2021.117262"
- Description: We have attempted to prolong the circulation time and increase the solubility of 5-Fluorouracil by complexing it with cyclodextrin and then further conjugating onto the gold nanoparticle to form 5Fu ICAu. The 1H NMR and molecular docking studies suggested that 5-Fu was included within the 2HP-β-CD cavity and H-5 proton probably serves as the binding site for stabilization of the inclusion complex. The 5Fu-ICAu showed higher cell inhibition rate when studied on MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines due to the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect by allowing the selective accumulation of nanoparticles at tumor site. This unique system can serve as a novel nanocarrier for delivery of hydrophobic drugs.
- Full Text:
A critical appraisal of the recruitment and selection process of the Public Protector in South Africa
- Bazana, Sandiso, Reddy, Tayra
- Authors: Bazana, Sandiso , Reddy, Tayra
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/453707 , vital:75279 , xlink:href=" https://journals.co.za/doi/full/10.4102/sajhrm.v19i0.1207"
- Description: Orientation: The process of recruitment and selection the Public Protector (PP) needs to ensure that the most ‘fit and proper’ candidate is appointed. The process needs critical scrutiny for such a fit and proper candidate to be selected. Research motivation: South Africa’s superior courts, including the Constitutional court have recently (in 2019) labelled the current Public Protector; dishonest and Incompetent in carrying out the duties of the PP office. Research purpose: This article critically appraises the recent process that culminated in the appointment of Ms Busisiwe Mkhwebane as the fourth Public Protector in the democratic South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Bazana, Sandiso , Reddy, Tayra
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/453707 , vital:75279 , xlink:href=" https://journals.co.za/doi/full/10.4102/sajhrm.v19i0.1207"
- Description: Orientation: The process of recruitment and selection the Public Protector (PP) needs to ensure that the most ‘fit and proper’ candidate is appointed. The process needs critical scrutiny for such a fit and proper candidate to be selected. Research motivation: South Africa’s superior courts, including the Constitutional court have recently (in 2019) labelled the current Public Protector; dishonest and Incompetent in carrying out the duties of the PP office. Research purpose: This article critically appraises the recent process that culminated in the appointment of Ms Busisiwe Mkhwebane as the fourth Public Protector in the democratic South Africa.
- Full Text:
A decade of biological control of Parthenium hysterophorus L.(Asteraceae) in South Africa reviewed: introduction of insect agents and their status
- Strathie, L W, Cowie, Blair W, McConnachie, Andrew J, Chidawanyika, Frank, Musedeli, Jufter N, Sambo, SMC, Magoso, EX, Gareeb, M
- Authors: Strathie, L W , Cowie, Blair W , McConnachie, Andrew J , Chidawanyika, Frank , Musedeli, Jufter N , Sambo, SMC , Magoso, EX , Gareeb, M
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/416795 , vital:71386 , xlink:href="https://hdl.handle.net/10520/ejc-ento_v29_n3_a11"
- Description: The annual herb, Parthenium hysterophorus L. (Asteraceae: Heliantheae) is a severe terrestrial invader globally. Infestations reduce crop yield, limit available grazing, hinder conservation efforts, and affect human and animal health in Africa, Asia and Australia, and on associated islands. Due to the impact and threat of further invasion of P. hysterophorus, a biological control (biocontrol) programme was initiated in 2003 in South Africa. This review discusses the research and implementation activities undertaken on the insect agents from 2011 to 2020. During this period, the stem-boring weevil Listronotus setosipennis Hustache (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), leaf-feeding beetle Zygogramma bicolorata Pallister (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) and seed-feeding weevil Smicronyx lutulentus Dietz (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), were found to be host specific and approved for release. Releases of mass-reared insect agents have been concentrated particularly in north-eastern South Africa, where P. hysterophorus infestations are most prolific. Post-release monitoring studies indicated localised establishment and impact of L. setosipennis and S. lutulentus. Listronotus setosipennis persisted through severe drought conditions, and although it disperses slowly, larval feeding is structurally damaging. Establishment of S. lutulentus is improving, reducing seed production where it is established. Zygogramma bicolorata resulted in defoliation at a few sites, but establishment has been poor and the beetle has been absent since 2019. Although a combination of fungal and insect agents were demonstrated to reduce P. hysterophorus, additional natural enemies could improve control. Consequently, the stem-galling moth Epiblema strenuana Walker (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) and root-crown boring moth Carmenta sp. nr. ithacae (Beutenmüller) (Lepidoptera: Sesiidae) remain under evaluation. The management of P. hysterophorus in South Africa has been guided by the development of a national strategy, which incorporates multiple management methods, including biocontrol. International collaborations have intensified as a growing number of countries begin to utilize biocontrol to manage P. hysterophorus. Despite the progress towards biocontrol of P. hysterophorus during this period, increased utilisation of approved agents and the introduction of additional agents are necessary to achieve greater control.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Strathie, L W , Cowie, Blair W , McConnachie, Andrew J , Chidawanyika, Frank , Musedeli, Jufter N , Sambo, SMC , Magoso, EX , Gareeb, M
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/416795 , vital:71386 , xlink:href="https://hdl.handle.net/10520/ejc-ento_v29_n3_a11"
- Description: The annual herb, Parthenium hysterophorus L. (Asteraceae: Heliantheae) is a severe terrestrial invader globally. Infestations reduce crop yield, limit available grazing, hinder conservation efforts, and affect human and animal health in Africa, Asia and Australia, and on associated islands. Due to the impact and threat of further invasion of P. hysterophorus, a biological control (biocontrol) programme was initiated in 2003 in South Africa. This review discusses the research and implementation activities undertaken on the insect agents from 2011 to 2020. During this period, the stem-boring weevil Listronotus setosipennis Hustache (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), leaf-feeding beetle Zygogramma bicolorata Pallister (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) and seed-feeding weevil Smicronyx lutulentus Dietz (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), were found to be host specific and approved for release. Releases of mass-reared insect agents have been concentrated particularly in north-eastern South Africa, where P. hysterophorus infestations are most prolific. Post-release monitoring studies indicated localised establishment and impact of L. setosipennis and S. lutulentus. Listronotus setosipennis persisted through severe drought conditions, and although it disperses slowly, larval feeding is structurally damaging. Establishment of S. lutulentus is improving, reducing seed production where it is established. Zygogramma bicolorata resulted in defoliation at a few sites, but establishment has been poor and the beetle has been absent since 2019. Although a combination of fungal and insect agents were demonstrated to reduce P. hysterophorus, additional natural enemies could improve control. Consequently, the stem-galling moth Epiblema strenuana Walker (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) and root-crown boring moth Carmenta sp. nr. ithacae (Beutenmüller) (Lepidoptera: Sesiidae) remain under evaluation. The management of P. hysterophorus in South Africa has been guided by the development of a national strategy, which incorporates multiple management methods, including biocontrol. International collaborations have intensified as a growing number of countries begin to utilize biocontrol to manage P. hysterophorus. Despite the progress towards biocontrol of P. hysterophorus during this period, increased utilisation of approved agents and the introduction of additional agents are necessary to achieve greater control.
- Full Text:
A heavy-atom-free π-extended N-confused porphyrin as a photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy
- Babu, Balaji, Mack, John, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Babu, Balaji , Mack, John , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/185909 , vital:44447 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1039/d1nj00112d"
- Description: The synthesis and characterization of a novel 1,3-diethyl-2-thiobarbituric-acid-substituted N-confused porphyrin (NCP-TB) is reported, along with a study of its photodynamic activity against MCF-7 cells using 530 (110 mW cm−2) and 660 nm (280 mW cm−2) Thorlabs light-emitting diodes for 30 min. The singlet oxygen quantum yield for NCP-TB is 0.38 compared to 0.23 for the parent unsubstituted N-confused porphyrin (NCP) due to the presence of a sulfur atom. NCP-TB exhibits enhanced PDT activity compared to NCP at both wavelengths. A significantly lower IC50 value of 5.2 μM was obtained at 530 nm (14.7 μM at 660 nm) despite a smaller light dose, due to a large red shift of the intense B band into the green region of the spectrum. 2′,7′-Dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCFDA) assays demonstrate that there is intracellular generation of reactive oxygen species upon exposure to light.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Babu, Balaji , Mack, John , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/185909 , vital:44447 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1039/d1nj00112d"
- Description: The synthesis and characterization of a novel 1,3-diethyl-2-thiobarbituric-acid-substituted N-confused porphyrin (NCP-TB) is reported, along with a study of its photodynamic activity against MCF-7 cells using 530 (110 mW cm−2) and 660 nm (280 mW cm−2) Thorlabs light-emitting diodes for 30 min. The singlet oxygen quantum yield for NCP-TB is 0.38 compared to 0.23 for the parent unsubstituted N-confused porphyrin (NCP) due to the presence of a sulfur atom. NCP-TB exhibits enhanced PDT activity compared to NCP at both wavelengths. A significantly lower IC50 value of 5.2 μM was obtained at 530 nm (14.7 μM at 660 nm) despite a smaller light dose, due to a large red shift of the intense B band into the green region of the spectrum. 2′,7′-Dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCFDA) assays demonstrate that there is intracellular generation of reactive oxygen species upon exposure to light.
- Full Text:
A new species of Buyisa Distant, 1907 (Hemiptera Cicadidae Cicadettinae Cicadettini) from South Africa
- Sanborn, Allen F, Villet, Martin H
- Authors: Sanborn, Allen F , Villet, Martin H
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/441318 , vital:73877 , https://doi.org/10.4289/0013-8797.123.1.199
- Description: A new species of the cicada genus Buyisa Distant, 1907 is described from South Africa for an undetermined species referenced in the literature. Buyisa eccaensis new species is described and illustrated and notes on its biology are provided. A key to the officially described species of Buyisa is also included.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Sanborn, Allen F , Villet, Martin H
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/441318 , vital:73877 , https://doi.org/10.4289/0013-8797.123.1.199
- Description: A new species of the cicada genus Buyisa Distant, 1907 is described from South Africa for an undetermined species referenced in the literature. Buyisa eccaensis new species is described and illustrated and notes on its biology are provided. A key to the officially described species of Buyisa is also included.
- Full Text:
A new species of red toad, Schismaderma Smith, 1849 (Anura: Bufonidae), from central Angola
- Baptista, Ninda L, Pinto, Pedro V, Keates, Chad, Edwards, Shelley, Rödel, Mark-Oliver, Conradie, Werner C
- Authors: Baptista, Ninda L , Pinto, Pedro V , Keates, Chad , Edwards, Shelley , Rödel, Mark-Oliver , Conradie, Werner C
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/461462 , vital:76204 , xlink:href="https://www.biotaxa.org/Zootaxa/article/view/zootaxa.5081.3.1"
- Description: A new species of red toad, from the previously monotypic genus Schismaderma, is described. The new species was found in Malanje Province, and seems endemic to central Angola, occurring approximately 500 km west of the closest known records of Schismaderma carens. Unusual adult colouration and geographical distance to remaining S. carens populations suggested specific differentiation. In an integrative approach, we compared the red toads from central Angola with S. carens from across the entire range, including molecular data, morphology of adults and tadpoles, and male advertisement calls. Phylogenetic analysis based on mitochondrial (12S, 16S, COI) and nuclear (CXCR4, RAG1) markers, retrieved the Angolan clade as monophyletic, and revealed intra-specific substructuring among the remaining Schismaderma. Genetic distances supported specific differentiation of the central Angolan material compared with other S. carens. Adults from the new Angolan species have bolder ventral patterning and smaller body size than S. carens. No obvious differences were detected between the tadpoles and the advertisement calls of the two Schismaderma species. This discovery adds to the knowledge of the herpetofauna of the Angolan Miombo woodlands, a poorly understood ecoregion, and likely more biodiverse than previously assumed. The result of past river basin dynamics in central Angola likely led to the evolution of this new species of Schismaderma.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Baptista, Ninda L , Pinto, Pedro V , Keates, Chad , Edwards, Shelley , Rödel, Mark-Oliver , Conradie, Werner C
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/461462 , vital:76204 , xlink:href="https://www.biotaxa.org/Zootaxa/article/view/zootaxa.5081.3.1"
- Description: A new species of red toad, from the previously monotypic genus Schismaderma, is described. The new species was found in Malanje Province, and seems endemic to central Angola, occurring approximately 500 km west of the closest known records of Schismaderma carens. Unusual adult colouration and geographical distance to remaining S. carens populations suggested specific differentiation. In an integrative approach, we compared the red toads from central Angola with S. carens from across the entire range, including molecular data, morphology of adults and tadpoles, and male advertisement calls. Phylogenetic analysis based on mitochondrial (12S, 16S, COI) and nuclear (CXCR4, RAG1) markers, retrieved the Angolan clade as monophyletic, and revealed intra-specific substructuring among the remaining Schismaderma. Genetic distances supported specific differentiation of the central Angolan material compared with other S. carens. Adults from the new Angolan species have bolder ventral patterning and smaller body size than S. carens. No obvious differences were detected between the tadpoles and the advertisement calls of the two Schismaderma species. This discovery adds to the knowledge of the herpetofauna of the Angolan Miombo woodlands, a poorly understood ecoregion, and likely more biodiverse than previously assumed. The result of past river basin dynamics in central Angola likely led to the evolution of this new species of Schismaderma.
- Full Text:
A population genetics study of Pale-winged Starlings, Onychognathus nabouroup, using novel microsatellite markers
- Munshi, Naadhira, Symes, Craig, Maayer, Pieter de, Craig, Adrian J F K, Henry, Laurence, Hausberger, Martine, Mollett, Jean
- Authors: Munshi, Naadhira , Symes, Craig , Maayer, Pieter de , Craig, Adrian J F K , Henry, Laurence , Hausberger, Martine , Mollett, Jean
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/448718 , vital:74754 , https://www.ajol.info/index.php/scopus/article/view/211291
- Description: Recent research into starling species has revealed the existence of vocal social markers and a link between song temporal structuring and social organisation. The aim of the present study was to develop a genetic tool for understanding the population structuring and behaviour (social/parental transmission) and mating in Pale-winged Starlings (Onychognathus nabouroup), a songbird which is found in arid areas of southern Africa. Using next-generation sequencing, microsatellite markers comprising six dinucleotides, eighteen trinucleotides and twenty-four tetra-nucleotides specific to the Pale-winged Starling were isolated and developed. A total of 77 birds were sampled from the Augrabies Falls Nature Reserve in South Africa (n= 53) and the Ai Ais-Richtersveld Transfrontier Park resort in Namibia (n= 24), respectively. Fifteen polymorphic microsatellite markers were genotyped. The statistical programme STRUCTURE revealed four different genetic clusters within the two populations.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Munshi, Naadhira , Symes, Craig , Maayer, Pieter de , Craig, Adrian J F K , Henry, Laurence , Hausberger, Martine , Mollett, Jean
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/448718 , vital:74754 , https://www.ajol.info/index.php/scopus/article/view/211291
- Description: Recent research into starling species has revealed the existence of vocal social markers and a link between song temporal structuring and social organisation. The aim of the present study was to develop a genetic tool for understanding the population structuring and behaviour (social/parental transmission) and mating in Pale-winged Starlings (Onychognathus nabouroup), a songbird which is found in arid areas of southern Africa. Using next-generation sequencing, microsatellite markers comprising six dinucleotides, eighteen trinucleotides and twenty-four tetra-nucleotides specific to the Pale-winged Starling were isolated and developed. A total of 77 birds were sampled from the Augrabies Falls Nature Reserve in South Africa (n= 53) and the Ai Ais-Richtersveld Transfrontier Park resort in Namibia (n= 24), respectively. Fifteen polymorphic microsatellite markers were genotyped. The statistical programme STRUCTURE revealed four different genetic clusters within the two populations.
- Full Text:
A review of the biocontrol programmes against aquatic weeds in South Africa
- Coetzee, Julie A, Bownes, Angela, Martin, Grant D, Miller, Benjamin E, Smith, Rosalie, Weyl, Philip S R, Hill, Martin P
- Authors: Coetzee, Julie A , Bownes, Angela , Martin, Grant D , Miller, Benjamin E , Smith, Rosalie , Weyl, Philip S R , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/406965 , vital:70326 , xlink:href="https://hdl.handle.net/10520/ejc-ento_v29_n3_a18"
- Description: Biological control (biocontrol) against invasive macrophytes is one of the longest standing programmes in South Africa, initiated in the 1970s against water hyacinth, Pontederia crassipes Mart. (Pontederiaceae). Since then, 15 agent species (13 insects, one mite and one pathogen) have been released against six weeds, most of which are floating macrophytes, with excellent levels of success. The release of the water hyacinth planthopper Megamelus scutellaris Berg (Hemiptera: Delphacidae) in particular, has improved biocontrol prospects for water hyacinth since 2018. In the last decade, however, a new suite of submerged and rooted emergent invasive macrophytes has been targeted. The first release against a submerged macrophyte in South Africa, and the first release against Brazilian waterweed, Egeria densa Planch. (Hydrocharitaceae), anywhere in the world, was achieved with the release of a leafmining fly, Hydrellia egeriae Rodrigues-Júnior, Mathis and Hauser (Diptera: Ephydridae). Yellow flag, Iris pseudacorus L. (Iridaceae) and Mexican waterlily, Nymphaea mexicana Zucc. (Nymphaeaceae), have also been targeted for biocontrol for the first time worldwide, and are in the early stages of agent development. Post-release evaluations, long term monitoring and controlled experiments have highlighted the need for a more holistic approach to managing aquatic invasive plants in South Africa, whose presence is largely driven by eutrophication, resulting in regime shifts between floating and submerged invaded states.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Coetzee, Julie A , Bownes, Angela , Martin, Grant D , Miller, Benjamin E , Smith, Rosalie , Weyl, Philip S R , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/406965 , vital:70326 , xlink:href="https://hdl.handle.net/10520/ejc-ento_v29_n3_a18"
- Description: Biological control (biocontrol) against invasive macrophytes is one of the longest standing programmes in South Africa, initiated in the 1970s against water hyacinth, Pontederia crassipes Mart. (Pontederiaceae). Since then, 15 agent species (13 insects, one mite and one pathogen) have been released against six weeds, most of which are floating macrophytes, with excellent levels of success. The release of the water hyacinth planthopper Megamelus scutellaris Berg (Hemiptera: Delphacidae) in particular, has improved biocontrol prospects for water hyacinth since 2018. In the last decade, however, a new suite of submerged and rooted emergent invasive macrophytes has been targeted. The first release against a submerged macrophyte in South Africa, and the first release against Brazilian waterweed, Egeria densa Planch. (Hydrocharitaceae), anywhere in the world, was achieved with the release of a leafmining fly, Hydrellia egeriae Rodrigues-Júnior, Mathis and Hauser (Diptera: Ephydridae). Yellow flag, Iris pseudacorus L. (Iridaceae) and Mexican waterlily, Nymphaea mexicana Zucc. (Nymphaeaceae), have also been targeted for biocontrol for the first time worldwide, and are in the early stages of agent development. Post-release evaluations, long term monitoring and controlled experiments have highlighted the need for a more holistic approach to managing aquatic invasive plants in South Africa, whose presence is largely driven by eutrophication, resulting in regime shifts between floating and submerged invaded states.
- Full Text:
A Review of the Siyakhula Living Lab’s Network Solution for Internet in Poor Communities
- Muchatibaya, Hilbert, Terzoli, Alfredo, Dlodlo, Nomusa
- Authors: Muchatibaya, Hilbert , Terzoli, Alfredo , Dlodlo, Nomusa
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/474279 , vital:77698 , xlink:href="https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/9577006"
- Description: Changes within ICT over the past decade required a review of the network solution deployed in the Siyakhula Living Lab (SLL), a joint venture between the Universities of Fort Hare and Rhodes, focused on finding blueprints for sustainable e-infrastructure in poor communities. The review found that the topology used in the SLL’s network is still viable but WiMAX is now outdated. Also, the in-network cache, Squid, is no longer effective, given the switch to HTTPS, the strong presence of advertising, and the data weight of current web pages. The solution to the first issue is outdoor Wi-Fi, a proven solution easily deployable in grass-roots fashion. The second issue can be cured leveraging Squid’s ‘bumping’ and splicing features; deploying a browser extension to make picture download optional; and using Pi-hole, a DNS sinkhole. Hopefully, the revised solution could become a component of South African Government’s broadband plan, “SA Connect”.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Muchatibaya, Hilbert , Terzoli, Alfredo , Dlodlo, Nomusa
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/474279 , vital:77698 , xlink:href="https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/9577006"
- Description: Changes within ICT over the past decade required a review of the network solution deployed in the Siyakhula Living Lab (SLL), a joint venture between the Universities of Fort Hare and Rhodes, focused on finding blueprints for sustainable e-infrastructure in poor communities. The review found that the topology used in the SLL’s network is still viable but WiMAX is now outdated. Also, the in-network cache, Squid, is no longer effective, given the switch to HTTPS, the strong presence of advertising, and the data weight of current web pages. The solution to the first issue is outdoor Wi-Fi, a proven solution easily deployable in grass-roots fashion. The second issue can be cured leveraging Squid’s ‘bumping’ and splicing features; deploying a browser extension to make picture download optional; and using Pi-hole, a DNS sinkhole. Hopefully, the revised solution could become a component of South African Government’s broadband plan, “SA Connect”.
- Full Text:
A Robust Portable Environment for First-Year Computer Science Students
- Brown, Dane L, Connan, James
- Authors: Brown, Dane L , Connan, James
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/465113 , vital:76574 , xlink:href="https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-030-92858-2_6"
- Description: Computer science education in both South African universities and worldwide often aim at making students confident at problem solving by introducing various programming exercises. Standardising a computer environment where students can apply their computational thinking knowledge on a more even playing field – without worrying about software issues – can be beneficial for problem solving in classroom of diverse students. Research shows that having consistent access to this exposes students to core concepts of Computer Science. However, with the diverse student base in South Africa, not everyone has access to a personal computer or expensive software. This paper describes a new approach at first-year level that uses the power of a modified Linux distro on a flash drive to enable access to the same, fully-fledged, free and open-source environment, including the convenience of portability. This is used as a means to even the playing field in a diverse country like South Africa and address the lack of consistent access to a problem solving environment. Feedback from students and staff at the Institution are effectively heeded and attempted to be measured.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Brown, Dane L , Connan, James
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/465113 , vital:76574 , xlink:href="https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-030-92858-2_6"
- Description: Computer science education in both South African universities and worldwide often aim at making students confident at problem solving by introducing various programming exercises. Standardising a computer environment where students can apply their computational thinking knowledge on a more even playing field – without worrying about software issues – can be beneficial for problem solving in classroom of diverse students. Research shows that having consistent access to this exposes students to core concepts of Computer Science. However, with the diverse student base in South Africa, not everyone has access to a personal computer or expensive software. This paper describes a new approach at first-year level that uses the power of a modified Linux distro on a flash drive to enable access to the same, fully-fledged, free and open-source environment, including the convenience of portability. This is used as a means to even the playing field in a diverse country like South Africa and address the lack of consistent access to a problem solving environment. Feedback from students and staff at the Institution are effectively heeded and attempted to be measured.
- Full Text:
Accelerated implementations of the RIME for DDE calibration and source modelling
- Authors: Van Staden, Joshua
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Radio astronomy , Radio inferometers , Radio inferometers -- Calibration , Radio astronomy -- Data processing , Radio inferometers -- Data processing , Radio inferometers -- Calibration -- Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/172422 , vital:42199
- Description: Second- and third-generation calibration methods filter out subtle effects in interferometer data, and therefore yield significantly higher dynamic ranges. The basis of these calibration techniques relies on building a model of the sky and corrupting it with models of the effects acting on the sources. The sensitivities of modern instruments call for more elaborate models to capture the level of detail that is required to achieve accurate calibration. This thesis implements two types of models to be used in for second- and third-generation calibration. The first model implemented is shapelets, which can be used to model radio source morphologies directly in uv space. The second model implemented is Zernike polynomials, which can be used to represent the primary beam of the antenna. We implement these models in the CODEX-AFRICANUS package and provide a set of unit tests for each model. Additionally, we compare our implementations against other methods of representing these objects and instrumental effects, namely NIFTY-GRIDDER against shapelets and a FITS-interpolation method against the Zernike polynomials. We find that to achieve sufficient accuracy, our implementation of the shapelet model has a higher runtime to that of the NIFTY-GRIDDER. However, the NIFTY-GRIDDER cannot simulate a component-based sky model while the shapelet model can. Additionally, the shapelet model is fully parametric, which allows for integration into a parameterised solver. We find that, while having a smaller memory footprint, our Zernike model has a greater computational complexity than that of the FITS-interpolated method. However, we find that the Zernike implementation has floating-point accuracy in its modelling, while the FITS-interpolated model loses some accuracy through the discretisation of the beam.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Van Staden, Joshua
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Radio astronomy , Radio inferometers , Radio inferometers -- Calibration , Radio astronomy -- Data processing , Radio inferometers -- Data processing , Radio inferometers -- Calibration -- Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/172422 , vital:42199
- Description: Second- and third-generation calibration methods filter out subtle effects in interferometer data, and therefore yield significantly higher dynamic ranges. The basis of these calibration techniques relies on building a model of the sky and corrupting it with models of the effects acting on the sources. The sensitivities of modern instruments call for more elaborate models to capture the level of detail that is required to achieve accurate calibration. This thesis implements two types of models to be used in for second- and third-generation calibration. The first model implemented is shapelets, which can be used to model radio source morphologies directly in uv space. The second model implemented is Zernike polynomials, which can be used to represent the primary beam of the antenna. We implement these models in the CODEX-AFRICANUS package and provide a set of unit tests for each model. Additionally, we compare our implementations against other methods of representing these objects and instrumental effects, namely NIFTY-GRIDDER against shapelets and a FITS-interpolation method against the Zernike polynomials. We find that to achieve sufficient accuracy, our implementation of the shapelet model has a higher runtime to that of the NIFTY-GRIDDER. However, the NIFTY-GRIDDER cannot simulate a component-based sky model while the shapelet model can. Additionally, the shapelet model is fully parametric, which allows for integration into a parameterised solver. We find that, while having a smaller memory footprint, our Zernike model has a greater computational complexity than that of the FITS-interpolated method. However, we find that the Zernike implementation has floating-point accuracy in its modelling, while the FITS-interpolated model loses some accuracy through the discretisation of the beam.
- Full Text:
Adaptation and validation of a computerized neurocognitive battery in the Xhosa of South Africa
- Cobb, Scott J, Moore, Tyler M, Stein, Dan J, Pretorius, Adele, Zingela, Zukiswa, Nagdee, Mohammed, Ngqengelele, Linda, Campbell, Megan M, Sibeko, Goodman, King, Mary C, McClellan, Jon M, Port, Allison M, Jackson, Chad, Ruparel, Kosha, Susser, Ezra, Gur, Ruben C
- Authors: Cobb, Scott J , Moore, Tyler M , Stein, Dan J , Pretorius, Adele , Zingela, Zukiswa , Nagdee, Mohammed , Ngqengelele, Linda , Campbell, Megan M , Sibeko, Goodman , King, Mary C , McClellan, Jon M , Port, Allison M , Jackson, Chad , Ruparel, Kosha , Susser, Ezra , Gur, Ruben C
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/302439 , vital:58196 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1037/neu0000742"
- Description: Objective: Large-scale studies have revolutionized biomedical research, and neurocognitive tests can help elucidate the biological basis of neuropsychiatric diseases. However, studies have predominantly been conducted in Western settings. We describe the development and validation of a computerized battery (PennCNB) with the Xhosa population of South Africa. Method: Individuals with schizophrenia (n = 525) and a normative comparison group (n = 744) were balanced on age, sex, education, and region. Participants provided blood samples, were assessed psychiatrically, and were administered a PennCNB translation to isiXhosa, including measures of executive functions, episodic memory, complex cognition, social cognition, and sensorimotor speed. Feasibility was examined with test completion rates and input from administrators, and psychometric structural validity and associations with clinical and demographic characteristics were examined. Results: Tests were well tolerated by participants, as >87% had one (or fewer) test missing. Results suggested a similar factor structure to prior PennCNB studies in Western contexts, and expected age and sex effects were apparent. Furthermore, a similar profile of schizophrenia was observed, with neurocognitive deficits most pronounced for executive functions, especially attention, as well as memory, social cognition, and motor speed relative to complex cognition and sensorimotor speed. Conclusions: Results support the feasibility of implementing a culturally adapted computerized neurocognitive battery in sub-Saharan African settings and provide evidence supporting the concurrent validity of the translated instrument. Thus, the PennCNB is implementable on a large scale in non-Western contexts, shows expected factor structure, and can detect cognitive deficits associated with neuropsychiatric disorders. Obtaining valid measures of cognition by nonspecialized proctors is especially suitable in resource-limited settings, where traditional testing is prohibitive. Future work should establish normative standards, test–retest reliability, and sensitivity to treatment.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Cobb, Scott J , Moore, Tyler M , Stein, Dan J , Pretorius, Adele , Zingela, Zukiswa , Nagdee, Mohammed , Ngqengelele, Linda , Campbell, Megan M , Sibeko, Goodman , King, Mary C , McClellan, Jon M , Port, Allison M , Jackson, Chad , Ruparel, Kosha , Susser, Ezra , Gur, Ruben C
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/302439 , vital:58196 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1037/neu0000742"
- Description: Objective: Large-scale studies have revolutionized biomedical research, and neurocognitive tests can help elucidate the biological basis of neuropsychiatric diseases. However, studies have predominantly been conducted in Western settings. We describe the development and validation of a computerized battery (PennCNB) with the Xhosa population of South Africa. Method: Individuals with schizophrenia (n = 525) and a normative comparison group (n = 744) were balanced on age, sex, education, and region. Participants provided blood samples, were assessed psychiatrically, and were administered a PennCNB translation to isiXhosa, including measures of executive functions, episodic memory, complex cognition, social cognition, and sensorimotor speed. Feasibility was examined with test completion rates and input from administrators, and psychometric structural validity and associations with clinical and demographic characteristics were examined. Results: Tests were well tolerated by participants, as >87% had one (or fewer) test missing. Results suggested a similar factor structure to prior PennCNB studies in Western contexts, and expected age and sex effects were apparent. Furthermore, a similar profile of schizophrenia was observed, with neurocognitive deficits most pronounced for executive functions, especially attention, as well as memory, social cognition, and motor speed relative to complex cognition and sensorimotor speed. Conclusions: Results support the feasibility of implementing a culturally adapted computerized neurocognitive battery in sub-Saharan African settings and provide evidence supporting the concurrent validity of the translated instrument. Thus, the PennCNB is implementable on a large scale in non-Western contexts, shows expected factor structure, and can detect cognitive deficits associated with neuropsychiatric disorders. Obtaining valid measures of cognition by nonspecialized proctors is especially suitable in resource-limited settings, where traditional testing is prohibitive. Future work should establish normative standards, test–retest reliability, and sensitivity to treatment.
- Full Text:
Adaptive machine learning based network intrusion detection
- Chindove, Hatitye E, Brown, Dane L
- Authors: Chindove, Hatitye E , Brown, Dane L
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/464052 , vital:76471 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1145/3487923.3487938"
- Description: Network intrusion detection system (NIDS) adoption is essential for mitigating computer network attacks in various scenarios. However, the increasing complexity of computer networks and attacks make it challenging to classify network traffic. Machine learning (ML) techniques in a NIDS can be affected by different scenarios, and thus the recency, size and applicability of datasets are vital factors to consider when selecting and tuning a machine learning classifier. The proposed approach evaluates relatively new datasets constructed such that they depict real-world scenarios. It includes analyses of dataset balancing and sampling, feature engineering and systematic ML-based NIDS model tuning focused on the adaptive improvement of intrusion detection. A comparison between machine learning classifiers forms part of the evaluation process. Results on the proposed approach model effectiveness for NIDS are discussed. Recurrent neural networks and random forests models consistently achieved high f1-score results with macro f1-scores of 0.73 and 0.87 for the CICIDS 2017 dataset; and 0.73 and 0.72 against the CICIDS 2018 dataset, respectively.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Chindove, Hatitye E , Brown, Dane L
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/464052 , vital:76471 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1145/3487923.3487938"
- Description: Network intrusion detection system (NIDS) adoption is essential for mitigating computer network attacks in various scenarios. However, the increasing complexity of computer networks and attacks make it challenging to classify network traffic. Machine learning (ML) techniques in a NIDS can be affected by different scenarios, and thus the recency, size and applicability of datasets are vital factors to consider when selecting and tuning a machine learning classifier. The proposed approach evaluates relatively new datasets constructed such that they depict real-world scenarios. It includes analyses of dataset balancing and sampling, feature engineering and systematic ML-based NIDS model tuning focused on the adaptive improvement of intrusion detection. A comparison between machine learning classifiers forms part of the evaluation process. Results on the proposed approach model effectiveness for NIDS are discussed. Recurrent neural networks and random forests models consistently achieved high f1-score results with macro f1-scores of 0.73 and 0.87 for the CICIDS 2017 dataset; and 0.73 and 0.72 against the CICIDS 2018 dataset, respectively.
- Full Text:
Adaptive network intrusion detection using optimised machine learning models
- Chindove, Hatitye E, Brown, Dane L
- Authors: Chindove, Hatitye E , Brown, Dane L
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/465634 , vital:76627 , xlink:href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/358046953_Adaptive_Network_Intrusion_Detection_using_Optimised_Machine_Learning_Models"
- Description: Network intrusion detection system (NIDS) adoption is essential for mitigating computer network attacks in various scenarios. However, the increasing complexity of computer networks and attacks make it challenging to classify network traffic. Machine learning (ML) techniques in a NIDS can be affected by different scenarios, and thus the recency, size and applicability of datasets are vital factors to consider when selecting and tuning a machine learning classifier. The proposed approach evaluates relatively new datasets constructed such that they depict real-world scenarios. It includes empirical analyses of practical, systematic ML-based NIDS with significant network traffic for improved intrusion detection. A comparison between machine learning classifiers, including deep learning, form part of the evaluation process. Results on how the proposed approach increased model effectiveness for NIDS in a more practical setting are discussed. Recurrent neural networks and random forests models consistently achieved the best results.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Chindove, Hatitye E , Brown, Dane L
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/465634 , vital:76627 , xlink:href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/358046953_Adaptive_Network_Intrusion_Detection_using_Optimised_Machine_Learning_Models"
- Description: Network intrusion detection system (NIDS) adoption is essential for mitigating computer network attacks in various scenarios. However, the increasing complexity of computer networks and attacks make it challenging to classify network traffic. Machine learning (ML) techniques in a NIDS can be affected by different scenarios, and thus the recency, size and applicability of datasets are vital factors to consider when selecting and tuning a machine learning classifier. The proposed approach evaluates relatively new datasets constructed such that they depict real-world scenarios. It includes empirical analyses of practical, systematic ML-based NIDS with significant network traffic for improved intrusion detection. A comparison between machine learning classifiers, including deep learning, form part of the evaluation process. Results on how the proposed approach increased model effectiveness for NIDS in a more practical setting are discussed. Recurrent neural networks and random forests models consistently achieved the best results.
- Full Text:
Addressing the red flags in cochineal identification: The use of molecular techniques to identify cochineal insects that are used as biological control agents for invasive alien cacti
- van Steenderen, Clarke J M, Paterson, Iain D, Edwards, Shelley, Day, Michael D
- Authors: van Steenderen, Clarke J M , Paterson, Iain D , Edwards, Shelley , Day, Michael D
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/423282 , vital:72044 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocontrol.2020.104426"
- Description: Invasive Cactaceae cause considerable damage to ecosystem function and agricultural practices around the world. The most successful biological control agents used to combat this group of weeds belong to the genus Dactylopius (Hemiptera: Dactylopiidae), commonly known as ‘cochineal’. Effective control relies on selecting the correct species, or in some cases, the most effective intraspecific lineage, of cochineal for the target cactus species. Many of the Dactylopius species are so morphologically similar, and in the case of intraspecific lineages, identical, that numerous misidentifications have been made in the past. These errors have resulted in failed attempts at the biological control of some cactus species. This study aimed to generate a multi-locus genetic database to enable the accurate identification of dactylopiids. Genetic characterization was achieved through the nucleotide sequencing of three gene regions (12S rRNA, 18S rRNA, and COI) and two inter-simple sequence repeats (ISSR). Nucleotide sequences were very effective for species-level and D. tomentosus lineage-level identification, but could not distinguish between the two lineages within D. opuntiae commonly used for biological control of various Opuntia spp. Fragment analysis through the use of ISSRs successfully addressed this issue. This is the first time that a method has been developed that can distinguish between these two D. opuntiae lineages. Using the methods developed in this study, biological control practitioners can ensure that the most effective agent species and lineages are used for each cactus target weed, thus maximizing the level of control.
- Full Text:
- Authors: van Steenderen, Clarke J M , Paterson, Iain D , Edwards, Shelley , Day, Michael D
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/423282 , vital:72044 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocontrol.2020.104426"
- Description: Invasive Cactaceae cause considerable damage to ecosystem function and agricultural practices around the world. The most successful biological control agents used to combat this group of weeds belong to the genus Dactylopius (Hemiptera: Dactylopiidae), commonly known as ‘cochineal’. Effective control relies on selecting the correct species, or in some cases, the most effective intraspecific lineage, of cochineal for the target cactus species. Many of the Dactylopius species are so morphologically similar, and in the case of intraspecific lineages, identical, that numerous misidentifications have been made in the past. These errors have resulted in failed attempts at the biological control of some cactus species. This study aimed to generate a multi-locus genetic database to enable the accurate identification of dactylopiids. Genetic characterization was achieved through the nucleotide sequencing of three gene regions (12S rRNA, 18S rRNA, and COI) and two inter-simple sequence repeats (ISSR). Nucleotide sequences were very effective for species-level and D. tomentosus lineage-level identification, but could not distinguish between the two lineages within D. opuntiae commonly used for biological control of various Opuntia spp. Fragment analysis through the use of ISSRs successfully addressed this issue. This is the first time that a method has been developed that can distinguish between these two D. opuntiae lineages. Using the methods developed in this study, biological control practitioners can ensure that the most effective agent species and lineages are used for each cactus target weed, thus maximizing the level of control.
- Full Text:
Advances in the regulation of weed biological control in South Africa
- Ivey, Philip J, Hill, Martin P, Zachariades, Costas
- Authors: Ivey, Philip J , Hill, Martin P , Zachariades, Costas
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/416819 , vital:71388 , xlink:href="https://hdl.handle.net/10520/ejc-ento_v29_n3_a24"
- Description: Regulation of biological control (biocontrol) is essential to ensure its continued safety and to enhance its acceptability as a key contributor to the management of damaging invasive alien plants in South Africa. Local researchers were concerned that regulators may become risk averse and over-cautious, thus preventing introductions of safe biocontrol agents, as bureaucratic impediments have contributed to the decline in the number of biocontrol releases in several other countries. In South Africa, the introduction of a transparent and inclusive review process has averted these concerns. Legislation in South Africa enables departments concerned with protecting environmental and agricultural resources, to work together to regulate potential risks. An interdepartmental committee, advised by independent specialists, facilitate the review of research into the safety of potential biocontrol agents. Regulators have reviewed and timeously assessed 26 potential biocontrol agents between 2013 and 2020. This has ensured that the considerable benefits from safe biocontrol agents are available for management of some of South Africa’s worst invasive alien plants. We review the system in South Africa and suggest possible improvements to the regulatory framework.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ivey, Philip J , Hill, Martin P , Zachariades, Costas
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/416819 , vital:71388 , xlink:href="https://hdl.handle.net/10520/ejc-ento_v29_n3_a24"
- Description: Regulation of biological control (biocontrol) is essential to ensure its continued safety and to enhance its acceptability as a key contributor to the management of damaging invasive alien plants in South Africa. Local researchers were concerned that regulators may become risk averse and over-cautious, thus preventing introductions of safe biocontrol agents, as bureaucratic impediments have contributed to the decline in the number of biocontrol releases in several other countries. In South Africa, the introduction of a transparent and inclusive review process has averted these concerns. Legislation in South Africa enables departments concerned with protecting environmental and agricultural resources, to work together to regulate potential risks. An interdepartmental committee, advised by independent specialists, facilitate the review of research into the safety of potential biocontrol agents. Regulators have reviewed and timeously assessed 26 potential biocontrol agents between 2013 and 2020. This has ensured that the considerable benefits from safe biocontrol agents are available for management of some of South Africa’s worst invasive alien plants. We review the system in South Africa and suggest possible improvements to the regulatory framework.
- Full Text:
Advancing Assessment Thinking in Education for Sustainable Development with a Focus on Significant Learning Processes
- Shumba, Overson, Mandikonza, Caleb, Lotz-Sisitka, Heila
- Authors: Shumba, Overson , Mandikonza, Caleb , Lotz-Sisitka, Heila
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , book chapter
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435209 , vital:73138 , ISBN 9781928502241 , https://library.oapen.org/handle/20.500.12657/64082
- Description: This position paper is developed in the context of the Fundisa [Teaching] for Change teacher education programme (www.fundisaforchange.co.za), as well as the Sustainability Starts with Teachers programmes for teacher education (www. sustainabilityteachers.org/course). Fundisa for Change is a South African programme while Sustainability Starts with Teachers is a Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) programme for teacher educators. Both these programmes seek to enhance transformative environments and sustainability education processes in teacher education. They have a strategic focus on situated and transformative learning approaches for learners to learn to ‘know the world’ and practice ‘being in the world’. The real world provides the context for learning and assessment for learning, but not enough is known about assessment of such learning.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Shumba, Overson , Mandikonza, Caleb , Lotz-Sisitka, Heila
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , book chapter
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435209 , vital:73138 , ISBN 9781928502241 , https://library.oapen.org/handle/20.500.12657/64082
- Description: This position paper is developed in the context of the Fundisa [Teaching] for Change teacher education programme (www.fundisaforchange.co.za), as well as the Sustainability Starts with Teachers programmes for teacher education (www. sustainabilityteachers.org/course). Fundisa for Change is a South African programme while Sustainability Starts with Teachers is a Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) programme for teacher educators. Both these programmes seek to enhance transformative environments and sustainability education processes in teacher education. They have a strategic focus on situated and transformative learning approaches for learners to learn to ‘know the world’ and practice ‘being in the world’. The real world provides the context for learning and assessment for learning, but not enough is known about assessment of such learning.
- Full Text:
Advancing urban ecology in the global south: emerging themes and future research directions
- du Toit, Marie J, Shackleton, Charlie M, Cilliers, Sarel S, Davoren, Elandre
- Authors: du Toit, Marie J , Shackleton, Charlie M , Cilliers, Sarel S , Davoren, Elandre
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , book chapter
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/433713 , vital:72996 , ISBN 978-3-030-67650-6 , https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-67650-6_17
- Description: The rapid growth in urban ecological research and application has been led by countries of the Global North, particularly Europe and the USA, albeit not restricted to them. However, this belies that most urban growth is currently in the Global South, with the differential set to increase in the future. Thus, there is an imbalance between where the bulk of urban ecological research and framings are developed and where the majority of urban citizens globally live, work and seek to meet their aspirations. This chapter illustrates how this book addressed the identified research gaps in the Global South. We also highlight dominant recurring themes in Global South research discourse and importantly, where future research efforts over the next decade should be focussed. Eight themes are considered, namely: inequality; informality; urban–rural links; small and medium-sized towns and cities; urban green infrastructure, biodiversity and ecosystem services; understanding and accommodating multiple worldviews of urban nature; human health and urban nature; and specific research approaches.
- Full Text:
- Authors: du Toit, Marie J , Shackleton, Charlie M , Cilliers, Sarel S , Davoren, Elandre
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , book chapter
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/433713 , vital:72996 , ISBN 978-3-030-67650-6 , https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-67650-6_17
- Description: The rapid growth in urban ecological research and application has been led by countries of the Global North, particularly Europe and the USA, albeit not restricted to them. However, this belies that most urban growth is currently in the Global South, with the differential set to increase in the future. Thus, there is an imbalance between where the bulk of urban ecological research and framings are developed and where the majority of urban citizens globally live, work and seek to meet their aspirations. This chapter illustrates how this book addressed the identified research gaps in the Global South. We also highlight dominant recurring themes in Global South research discourse and importantly, where future research efforts over the next decade should be focussed. Eight themes are considered, namely: inequality; informality; urban–rural links; small and medium-sized towns and cities; urban green infrastructure, biodiversity and ecosystem services; understanding and accommodating multiple worldviews of urban nature; human health and urban nature; and specific research approaches.
- Full Text:
Age is Nothing but a Number: Ben 10s, Sugar Mummies, and the South African Gender Order in the Daily Sun’s Facebook Page
- Boshoff, Priscilla A, Mlangeni, Ntombi L
- Authors: Boshoff, Priscilla A , Mlangeni, Ntombi L
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/455496 , vital:75434 , https://doi.org/10.3389/fsoc.2021.706132
- Description: Stories about “Ben10” relationships between older women and their younger male lovers appear regularly in the Daily Sun, South Africa’s most popular tabloid newspaper. Daily Sun readers, who are typically township residents, engage vociferously over the rights and wrongs of such relationships on the tabloid’s Facebook page, and alternatively berate or support the older, working class women who feature in them. These women could be understood as “postfeminist” insofar as they are financially independent and sexually autonomous. Their actions echo those of the independent township women in the mid 20th century who, resisting patriarchal apartheid social engineering, brewed beer and rented rooms in order to assert their financial and sexual inde-pendence. In both cases, these women’s bold actions confront local hetero-patriarchal norms and call into question an ideal local patriarchal gender order. However, the meanings that are made by the readers of such women in Ben10 relationships today also reflect a social context characterised by a contestation over the meaning of rights, high rates of unemployment, gender-based violence and HIV, factors that curtail a premature diagnosis of postfeminist identity. Drawing on a textual anal-ysis of several articles and their Facebook comments, we argue that any assessment of postfeminism in southern spaces must account for how historical and contextual factors such as these constrain the reach of global postfeminism.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Boshoff, Priscilla A , Mlangeni, Ntombi L
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/455496 , vital:75434 , https://doi.org/10.3389/fsoc.2021.706132
- Description: Stories about “Ben10” relationships between older women and their younger male lovers appear regularly in the Daily Sun, South Africa’s most popular tabloid newspaper. Daily Sun readers, who are typically township residents, engage vociferously over the rights and wrongs of such relationships on the tabloid’s Facebook page, and alternatively berate or support the older, working class women who feature in them. These women could be understood as “postfeminist” insofar as they are financially independent and sexually autonomous. Their actions echo those of the independent township women in the mid 20th century who, resisting patriarchal apartheid social engineering, brewed beer and rented rooms in order to assert their financial and sexual inde-pendence. In both cases, these women’s bold actions confront local hetero-patriarchal norms and call into question an ideal local patriarchal gender order. However, the meanings that are made by the readers of such women in Ben10 relationships today also reflect a social context characterised by a contestation over the meaning of rights, high rates of unemployment, gender-based violence and HIV, factors that curtail a premature diagnosis of postfeminist identity. Drawing on a textual anal-ysis of several articles and their Facebook comments, we argue that any assessment of postfeminism in southern spaces must account for how historical and contextual factors such as these constrain the reach of global postfeminism.
- Full Text:
Alcohol use during pregnancy: prevalence and patterns in selected Buffalo City areas, South Africa
- Macleod, Catriona I, Young, Charles S, Molokoe, Katlego C
- Authors: Macleod, Catriona I , Young, Charles S , Molokoe, Katlego C
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/443611 , vital:74137 , xlink:href="https://www.ajol.info/index.php/ajrh/article/view/205539"
- Description: The high rate of foetal alcohol spectrum disorders, which results from alcohol consumption during pregnancy, is of concern in South Africa. The aims of this research were to establish the prevalence, patterns and factors associated with alcohol use amongst pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in two former township areas of Buffalo City, South Africa. A survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire that included socio-demographic questions, and the Alcohol Use Test (AUDIT). The questionnaire was administered in English, Afrikaans or isiXhosa by healthcare providers trained in its administration. Consecutive sampling was used, with all willing women presenting at public clinics offering antenatal care in the two townships being invited to participate. Of the 18 clinics operating in the two townships, 16 were willing to participate, resulting in a sample of 1028 women over a nine-month period. Data were analysed in Medcalc using descriptive statistics, one-way analysis of variance, independent samples t-test and a multivariable binary logistic regression analysis. Two-thirds of the sample did not drink alcohol, but results showed high levels of risky alcohol use: 20.1% on the total AUDIT scale, and 16.8% on the AUDIT-C scale. The following variables were found to be significantly associated with risky drinking: age; race; report of intimate partner violence (IPV); and other regular drinker in the home. Employment status, education status, relationship status, parity and gestation were not associated with risky drinking. Interventions aimed at reducing alcohol use during pregnancy should address: drinking youth cultures; drinking norms within the home; and intimate partner violence. Future studies should include additional mental and physical health variables.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Macleod, Catriona I , Young, Charles S , Molokoe, Katlego C
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/443611 , vital:74137 , xlink:href="https://www.ajol.info/index.php/ajrh/article/view/205539"
- Description: The high rate of foetal alcohol spectrum disorders, which results from alcohol consumption during pregnancy, is of concern in South Africa. The aims of this research were to establish the prevalence, patterns and factors associated with alcohol use amongst pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in two former township areas of Buffalo City, South Africa. A survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire that included socio-demographic questions, and the Alcohol Use Test (AUDIT). The questionnaire was administered in English, Afrikaans or isiXhosa by healthcare providers trained in its administration. Consecutive sampling was used, with all willing women presenting at public clinics offering antenatal care in the two townships being invited to participate. Of the 18 clinics operating in the two townships, 16 were willing to participate, resulting in a sample of 1028 women over a nine-month period. Data were analysed in Medcalc using descriptive statistics, one-way analysis of variance, independent samples t-test and a multivariable binary logistic regression analysis. Two-thirds of the sample did not drink alcohol, but results showed high levels of risky alcohol use: 20.1% on the total AUDIT scale, and 16.8% on the AUDIT-C scale. The following variables were found to be significantly associated with risky drinking: age; race; report of intimate partner violence (IPV); and other regular drinker in the home. Employment status, education status, relationship status, parity and gestation were not associated with risky drinking. Interventions aimed at reducing alcohol use during pregnancy should address: drinking youth cultures; drinking norms within the home; and intimate partner violence. Future studies should include additional mental and physical health variables.
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