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LOREM IPSUM
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CONSECTETUR ADIPISCING ELIT. MORBI BIBENDUM PHARETRA LOREM, ACCUMSAN SAN NULLA.
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LOREM IPSUM:
$150,000
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LOREM IPSUM
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JOHN DOE
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Heinrich Dahms
Faculty of Science
Dam: what happens to microplastics?
By Heinrich Dahms
Supervisor Prof R. Greenfield
Co-supervisor Dr G. Tweddle
Plastics particles that range between 5- 0.05 mm in size are known as microplastics. These plastics are then classified as either primary (beads and nurdles) or secondary (broken down from larger objects) microplastics. Microplastics change in the environment, increasing in surface size and density and can therefore distribute throughout an ecosystem. These plastics can then gather toxins from the surrounding environment and leach toxins used in its production such as flame retardants. Living organisms may then ingest these plastics which may lead to intestinal blockages, oxidative stress and possibly the death of the animal. Microplastics have been found around the world from deep sea sediment to arctic ice, but microplastic research in Africa is lacking. This study aimed to determine the distribution of microplastics in a large “hard-working” river. The upper Vaal River was investigated for microplastics in water (3299.58 particles.mˉ³), fish (7.47 particles per fish) and sediment (46.7 particles.kgˉ¹). The results between the sites indicate how large structures like the Vaal Dam wall and Vaal Barrage weir may influence microplastic distribution on the environment, which may have implications on the surrounding biota. The authors therefore recommend that various aspects of a river ecosystem are investigated to determine a more holistic view of microplastics in the environment.
Mpho Maduenyane
Faculty of Science
ONE OF AFRICA’S MOST IMPORTANT AQUACULTURE SPECIES INFECTED WITH MACROGYRODACTYLUS PARASITES
Mpho Maduenyane, Quinton M. Dos Santos, Annemariè Avenant-Oldewage.
Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, South Africa.
Within the entire African aquaculture industry, South Africa is one of the top five producing countries. The African sharptooth catfish is one of the most actively cultured freshwater fish species because of its high nutritional value and the resulting economic value. As there exists such great demand for Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822), it is vital that research focused on parasites that may pose a threat to its health be conducted. Specimens of C. gariepinus previously purchased from a fish farm and released into the University of Johannesburg’s research aquarium were found to be infected with gyrodactylid ectoparasites preliminarily identified as Macrogyrodactylus sp. that multiplied liberally in the aquarium tanks. To verify the identification of these parasites and produce a detailed description, this study incorporated advanced morphological and molecular techniques. Morphological techniques involved light microscopic examination of glycerine ammonium picrate (GAP) mounted parasites, which were later compared to three species of Macrogyrodactylus parasitizing C. gariepinus. In addition, scanning electron microscopy of whole worms and isolated haptoral sclerites was performed. Molecular analysis included characterization of the ITS and 18S rDNA fragments. Generated molecular data was compared with that of other species of the genus from GenBank, showing the parasite to be closely related to Macrogyrodactylus congolensis (Prudhoe, 1957). The results presented here will allow for a detailed, updated
re-description of this species and also contribute in future to research on the histopathological impacts of the parasite on the fish host and possible control of these parasites in aquaculture.
Mpho Maduenyane
Faculty of Science
ONE OF AFRICA’S MOST IMPORTANT AQUACULTURE SPECIES INFECTED WITH MACROGYRODACTYLUS PARASITES
Mpho Maduenyane, Quinton M. Dos Santos, Annemariè Avenant-Oldewage.
Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, South Africa.
Within the entire African aquaculture industry, South Africa is one of the top five producing countries. The African sharptooth catfish is one of the most actively cultured freshwater fish species because of its high nutritional value and the resulting economic value. As there exists such great demand for Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822), it is vital that research focused on parasites that may pose a threat to its health be conducted. Specimens of C. gariepinus previously purchased from a fish farm and released into the University of Johannesburg’s research aquarium were found to be infected with gyrodactylid ectoparasites preliminarily identified as Macrogyrodactylus sp. that multiplied liberally in the aquarium tanks. To verify the identification of these parasites and produce a detailed description, this study incorporated advanced morphological and molecular techniques. Morphological techniques involved light microscopic examination of glycerine ammonium picrate (GAP) mounted parasites, which were later compared to three species of Macrogyrodactylus parasitizing C. gariepinus. In addition, scanning electron microscopy of whole worms and isolated haptoral sclerites was performed. Molecular analysis included characterization of the ITS and 18S rDNA fragments. Generated molecular data was compared with that of other species of the genus from GenBank, showing the parasite to be closely related to Macrogyrodactylus congolensis (Prudhoe, 1957). The results presented here will allow for a detailed, updated
re-description of this species and also contribute in future to research on the histopathological impacts of the parasite on the fish host and possible control of these parasites in aquaculture.
University of Johannesburg | Postgraduate School
2020 Virtual Poster Symposium
The Postgraduate School welcomes you to the virtual Poster Symposium where (selected) master’s students and PhD candidates deliverer impactful & insightful presentations about their research.
This virtual environment is to showcase the work of the students while exploring parts of the Postgraduate School.
You can navigate around the virtual environment by clicking on the icons on the floor to move around. All the images are 360 degrees, simple click and drag on the images to move about in the 360 space.
Simply click on a poster to view the abstract and see a high resolution PDF.
Prashant Patel
Faculty of Science
In this poster, we present some new fixed point results for a well-known class of general-ized nonexpansive type mappings and associated Krasnosel'ski type mappings in Banach spaces. We also present a nontrivial example to illustrate facts and show numerical convergence.
Kaylee Beine
Faculty of Science
An investigation into the toxicity of vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) in Oreochromis mossambicus under laboratory exposure conditions
Beine, K., Dahms-Verster, S., Greenfield, R.
Due to the global scarcity of freshwater, toxicants are becoming increasingly concentrated in water resources, affecting aquatic ecosystems. Vanadium is one such toxicant that has the ability to affect organisms. Vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) can act as an oxidizing agent and can therefore cause oxidative damage. Oreochromis mossambicus were exposed to various concentrations of V2O5. The organisms were ethically killed and their tissues excised, thereafter biomarkers of exposure and effect were done. All biomarkers were done according to standardized protocols. Statistical analysis was done, the data met assumptions for an ANOVA, therefore a Dunnett and Tukey Post-Hoc test was run. Integrated biomarker responses were used to display the data. Significant differences were found in metallothioneins, superoxide dismutase, catalase activity, and protein carbonyls. Metallothioneins showed significant differences between control, the 1.94 mg/L and 2.59 mg/L exposure concentrations. Superoxide dismutase showed a significant excitation from control to 1.29 mg/L then 1.94 mg/L and then inhibition from 1.94 mg/L to 2.59 mg/L, which shows that there were ROSs detoxification. Catalase activity showed a significant decrease from 1.29 mg/L exposure concentration, this could have been due to SOD compensation. Protein carbonyls (PC) were significantly inhibited as the concentrations of V2O5 increased, showing an inhibition of protein oxidation. No significant differences were found between AChE activity, GSH content, MDA content, CEA, Ea, Ec and all the individual constituents of Ea (protein, lipid and glucose) significantly in O. mossambicus. Since this study was an acute exposure, it is possible that a chronic exposure could yield more significant results.
Fathima Mulla
Faculty of Health Sciences
A survey on the perception of professionalism amongst radiography students in South Africa
Purpose
Professionalism in healthcare is waning. Possible reasons could be the didactic method in which it is taught and the emphasis on imaging throughput in the workplace. This educational challenge led to the conceptualization of this research study. The objective of this presentation is to communicate the perceptions of professionalism amongst radiography students at a South African university. The results form part of an ongoing mixed methods study that aims to create a model to support the development of professionalism amongst undergraduate diagnostic radiography students. Professionalism was defined as the knowledge, attitudes and behaviours implicit to the concept of professionalism within the context of the South African National Patient’s Rights’ Charter (SANPRC).
Methods and Materials
Following ethical clearance, data was collected using a structured questionnaire. 84 (94%) first year diagnostic radiography students were surveyed and responded at the end of their first year of study. Analysis involved frequencies and descriptive statistics.
Results*
Most of the participants rated their knowledge on professionalism positively (77%). “Access to healthcare’ (25%) and “right to confidentiality” (21.4%), were cited as important aspects of the SANPRC, “respect for patient (13%), and “patient dignity” (7%) were cited less frequently. Slightly more than half (52%) of the participants indicated to not understand the meaning of “fitness to practice”, and six (7%) participants understood the concept of altruism.
Conclusion
The results of this preliminary survey suggests that a model to support the development of professionalism amongst radiography students is crucial. The model aims to enhance student standard of professionalism.
Marilie Pretorius
Faculty of Science
The impact of environmental metal pollution on the infection of Lamproglena clariae on Clarias gariepinus along the Vaal River, South Africa.
Anthropogenic activities influence the natural equilibrium of the Vaal River that provides water for mining, agricultural, industrial, and urban developments within the catchment. Effluent from these sectors enriched in xenobiotics, trace elements and metals flow into the river. As a result of negative impacts associated with exposure to elevated trace element and metal levels in aquatic ecosystems, various freshwater organisms, including fish parasites, have been studied as biological indicators in this river. This study aimed to compare and evaluate the effects of variable water quality and trace metal levels in water from six sites along the Vaal River in relation with infection variables of Lamproglena clariae over two years (2017 and 2018). From each sampling site in situ water quality parameters, water samples and a minimum of 10 Clarias gariepinus were collected. Data on L clariae collected from the gills of C. gariepinus was used to calculate prevalence, mean intensity and mean abundance. Trace element and metal concentrations in water samples were determined by inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry. Lamproglena clariae was more prevalent with higher mean intensity and mean abundance at the sites located in the Upper Vaal Management Area in comparison to the sites in the lower Water Management Areas, starting at Yellowfish Paradise. The parasites’ intensity between sites was found to correlate negatively with some water quality parameters (conductivity, pH, salinity, total dissolved solids, and dissolved oxygen). Negative correlations were also found between L. clariae intensity and trace metal concentrations (Cu, As, Cd and Ag). In conclusion L. clariae infections during both sampling years was influenced negatively at sites with poor water quality and high metal concentrations.
Mpho Maduenyane
Faculty of Science
ONE OF AFRICA’S MOST IMPORTANT AQUACULTURE SPECIES INFECTED WITH MACROGYRODACTYLUS PARASITES
Mpho Maduenyane, Quinton M. Dos Santos, Annemariè Avenant-Oldewage.
Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, South Africa.
Within the entire African aquaculture industry, South Africa is one of the top five producing countries. The African sharptooth catfish is one of the most actively cultured freshwater fish species because of its high nutritional value and the resulting economic value. As there exists such great demand for Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822), it is vital that research focused on parasites that may pose a threat to its health be conducted. Specimens of C. gariepinus previously purchased from a fish farm and released into the University of Johannesburg’s research aquarium were found to be infected with gyrodactylid ectoparasites preliminarily identified as Macrogyrodactylus sp. that multiplied liberally in the aquarium tanks. To verify the identification of these parasites and produce a detailed description, this study incorporated advanced morphological and molecular techniques. Morphological techniques involved light microscopic examination of glycerine ammonium picrate (GAP) mounted parasites, which were later compared to three species of Macrogyrodactylus parasitizing C. gariepinus. In addition, scanning electron microscopy of whole worms and isolated haptoral sclerites was performed. Molecular analysis included characterization of the ITS and 18S rDNA fragments. Generated molecular data was compared with that of other species of the genus from GenBank, showing the parasite to be closely related to Macrogyrodactylus congolensis (Prudhoe, 1957). The results presented here will allow for a detailed, updated
re-description of this species and also contribute in future to research on the histopathological impacts of the parasite on the fish host and possible control of these parasites in aquaculture.
Mpho Maduenyane
Faculty of Science
ONE OF AFRICA’S MOST IMPORTANT AQUACULTURE SPECIES INFECTED WITH MACROGYRODACTYLUS PARASITES
Mpho Maduenyane, Quinton M. Dos Santos, Annemariè Avenant-Oldewage.
Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, South Africa.
Within the entire African aquaculture industry, South Africa is one of the top five producing countries. The African sharptooth catfish is one of the most actively cultured freshwater fish species because of its high nutritional value and the resulting economic value. As there exists such great demand for Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822), it is vital that research focused on parasites that may pose a threat to its health be conducted. Specimens of C. gariepinus previously purchased from a fish farm and released into the University of Johannesburg’s research aquarium were found to be infected with gyrodactylid ectoparasites preliminarily identified as Macrogyrodactylus sp. that multiplied liberally in the aquarium tanks. To verify the identification of these parasites and produce a detailed description, this study incorporated advanced morphological and molecular techniques. Morphological techniques involved light microscopic examination of glycerine ammonium picrate (GAP) mounted parasites, which were later compared to three species of Macrogyrodactylus parasitizing C. gariepinus. In addition, scanning electron microscopy of whole worms and isolated haptoral sclerites was performed. Molecular analysis included characterization of the ITS and 18S rDNA fragments. Generated molecular data was compared with that of other species of the genus from GenBank, showing the parasite to be closely related to Macrogyrodactylus congolensis (Prudhoe, 1957). The results presented here will allow for a detailed, updated
re-description of this species and also contribute in future to research on the histopathological impacts of the parasite on the fish host and possible control of these parasites in aquaculture.
Mpho Maduenyane
Faculty of Science
ONE OF AFRICA’S MOST IMPORTANT AQUACULTURE SPECIES INFECTED WITH MACROGYRODACTYLUS PARASITES
Mpho Maduenyane, Quinton M. Dos Santos, Annemariè Avenant-Oldewage.
Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, South Africa.
Within the entire African aquaculture industry, South Africa is one of the top five producing countries. The African sharptooth catfish is one of the most actively cultured freshwater fish species because of its high nutritional value and the resulting economic value. As there exists such great demand for Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822), it is vital that research focused on parasites that may pose a threat to its health be conducted. Specimens of C. gariepinus previously purchased from a fish farm and released into the University of Johannesburg’s research aquarium were found to be infected with gyrodactylid ectoparasites preliminarily identified as Macrogyrodactylus sp. that multiplied liberally in the aquarium tanks. To verify the identification of these parasites and produce a detailed description, this study incorporated advanced morphological and molecular techniques. Morphological techniques involved light microscopic examination of glycerine ammonium picrate (GAP) mounted parasites, which were later compared to three species of Macrogyrodactylus parasitizing C. gariepinus. In addition, scanning electron microscopy of whole worms and isolated haptoral sclerites was performed. Molecular analysis included characterization of the ITS and 18S rDNA fragments. Generated molecular data was compared with that of other species of the genus from GenBank, showing the parasite to be closely related to Macrogyrodactylus congolensis (Prudhoe, 1957). The results presented here will allow for a detailed, updated
re-description of this species and also contribute in future to research on the histopathological impacts of the parasite on the fish host and possible control of these parasites in aquaculture.
Mabore Jeridah Raseala
Faculty of Science
Photo-catalytic polymeric adsorbents for remediation of CN- ions in metallurgical wastewater
Author – M.J. Raseala1.2, R.M. Moutloali1.2, and M.C. Raphulu3
Affiliations 1Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Johannesburg; 2Mintek Nanotechnology Innovation Centre, University of Johannesburg, South Africa; 3Raphulu Consultant (Pty) Ltd, South Africa.
The mining and metallurgical activities generate large amounts of waste into the environment. As a result, these wastes constitute one of the greatest environmental challenges in South Africa today. Cyanidation and amalgamation using mercury processes are widely used by commercial and illegal mining for gold recovery, respectively. Over the years, cyanide treatment has become a big concern in the gold mining industry; this is because cyanide is present in large amounts and its emissions through leaching processes are of concern with regard to the economic, health and safety issues [1]. Many treatment methods have been used over the years in the treatment of CN--containing wastewater. The current technologies that are used do not remove CN- completely, while others are able to remove CN- but with the formation of very toxic products which causes additional pollution in the environment [2, 3]. In this study, polymer nanocomposites consisting of terminal N-functionalized groups coupled to photo-catalytic nanoparticles (TiO2) supported on either activated carbon or nanoclay. TiO2 was chosen as a photocatalyst due to its high chemical stability, relatively low band gap (UV range), and its proven photo-activity. The polymer used was quartenized in some instances to introduce a positive charge on the nitrogen atom in order to increase their selectivity towards cyanide ions. Techniques such as FTIR, SEM, EDS, TGA, XRD and BET were used for characterisation of all the prepared materials. Characterization using FTIR confirmed the formation and subsequent quaternization of the polymer adsorbents, as indicated by the appearance of new bands at specific wavenumbers. Maximum of 98.2% and 98.6% were achieved in oxidation of CN- ion using QPVP@TiO2@AC and QPVP@TiO2@clay respectively. The kinetics and mechanism of the photocatalytic oxidation and adsorption of cyanide were investigated in this study.
REFERENCES
[1]. Hilson, G., Monhemius, A. Alternatives to cyanide in the gold mining industry: what prospects for the future?. Journal of Cleaner and Production. (2003). Volume 14, pp. 1158 - 1167.
[2]. Botz, M. Overview of cyanide treatment menthods. (1999).
[3]. Services, S. M. Cyanide Distruction. SGS Mineral Services. (2005). Chapter 3(9), pp. 3 - 5.
Corresponding author Tel: +27 781253123/+27 631535538
Corresponding author email: dineodinnymj@gmail.com
Mpho Maduenyane
Faculty of Science
ONE OF AFRICA’S MOST IMPORTANT AQUACULTURE SPECIES INFECTED WITH MACROGYRODACTYLUS PARASITES
Mpho Maduenyane, Quinton M. Dos Santos, Annemariè Avenant-Oldewage.
Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, South Africa.
Within the entire African aquaculture industry, South Africa is one of the top five producing countries. The African sharptooth catfish is one of the most actively cultured freshwater fish species because of its high nutritional value and the resulting economic value. As there exists such great demand for Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822), it is vital that research focused on parasites that may pose a threat to its health be conducted. Specimens of C. gariepinus previously purchased from a fish farm and released into the University of Johannesburg’s research aquarium were found to be infected with gyrodactylid ectoparasites preliminarily identified as Macrogyrodactylus sp. that multiplied liberally in the aquarium tanks. To verify the identification of these parasites and produce a detailed description, this study incorporated advanced morphological and molecular techniques. Morphological techniques involved light microscopic examination of glycerine ammonium picrate (GAP) mounted parasites, which were later compared to three species of Macrogyrodactylus parasitizing C. gariepinus. In addition, scanning electron microscopy of whole worms and isolated haptoral sclerites was performed. Molecular analysis included characterization of the ITS and 18S rDNA fragments. Generated molecular data was compared with that of other species of the genus from GenBank, showing the parasite to be closely related to Macrogyrodactylus congolensis (Prudhoe, 1957). The results presented here will allow for a detailed, updated
re-description of this species and also contribute in future to research on the histopathological impacts of the parasite on the fish host and possible control of these parasites in aquaculture.
Mpho Maduenyane
Faculty of Science
ONE OF AFRICA’S MOST IMPORTANT AQUACULTURE SPECIES INFECTED WITH MACROGYRODACTYLUS PARASITES
Mpho Maduenyane, Quinton M. Dos Santos, Annemariè Avenant-Oldewage.
Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, South Africa.
Within the entire African aquaculture industry, South Africa is one of the top five producing countries. The African sharptooth catfish is one of the most actively cultured freshwater fish species because of its high nutritional value and the resulting economic value. As there exists such great demand for Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822), it is vital that research focused on parasites that may pose a threat to its health be conducted. Specimens of C. gariepinus previously purchased from a fish farm and released into the University of Johannesburg’s research aquarium were found to be infected with gyrodactylid ectoparasites preliminarily identified as Macrogyrodactylus sp. that multiplied liberally in the aquarium tanks. To verify the identification of these parasites and produce a detailed description, this study incorporated advanced morphological and molecular techniques. Morphological techniques involved light microscopic examination of glycerine ammonium picrate (GAP) mounted parasites, which were later compared to three species of Macrogyrodactylus parasitizing C. gariepinus. In addition, scanning electron microscopy of whole worms and isolated haptoral sclerites was performed. Molecular analysis included characterization of the ITS and 18S rDNA fragments. Generated molecular data was compared with that of other species of the genus from GenBank, showing the parasite to be closely related to Macrogyrodactylus congolensis (Prudhoe, 1957). The results presented here will allow for a detailed, updated
re-description of this species and also contribute in future to research on the histopathological impacts of the parasite on the fish host and possible control of these parasites in aquaculture.
Mpho Maduenyane
Faculty of Science
ONE OF AFRICA’S MOST IMPORTANT AQUACULTURE SPECIES INFECTED WITH MACROGYRODACTYLUS PARASITES
Mpho Maduenyane, Quinton M. Dos Santos, Annemariè Avenant-Oldewage.
Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, South Africa.
Within the entire African aquaculture industry, South Africa is one of the top five producing countries. The African sharptooth catfish is one of the most actively cultured freshwater fish species because of its high nutritional value and the resulting economic value. As there exists such great demand for Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822), it is vital that research focused on parasites that may pose a threat to its health be conducted. Specimens of C. gariepinus previously purchased from a fish farm and released into the University of Johannesburg’s research aquarium were found to be infected with gyrodactylid ectoparasites preliminarily identified as Macrogyrodactylus sp. that multiplied liberally in the aquarium tanks. To verify the identification of these parasites and produce a detailed description, this study incorporated advanced morphological and molecular techniques. Morphological techniques involved light microscopic examination of glycerine ammonium picrate (GAP) mounted parasites, which were later compared to three species of Macrogyrodactylus parasitizing C. gariepinus. In addition, scanning electron microscopy of whole worms and isolated haptoral sclerites was performed. Molecular analysis included characterization of the ITS and 18S rDNA fragments. Generated molecular data was compared with that of other species of the genus from GenBank, showing the parasite to be closely related to Macrogyrodactylus congolensis (Prudhoe, 1957). The results presented here will allow for a detailed, updated
re-description of this species and also contribute in future to research on the histopathological impacts of the parasite on the fish host and possible control of these parasites in aquaculture.
Mpho Maduenyane
Faculty of Science
ONE OF AFRICA’S MOST IMPORTANT AQUACULTURE SPECIES INFECTED WITH MACROGYRODACTYLUS PARASITES
Mpho Maduenyane, Quinton M. Dos Santos, Annemariè Avenant-Oldewage.
Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, South Africa.
Within the entire African aquaculture industry, South Africa is one of the top five producing countries. The African sharptooth catfish is one of the most actively cultured freshwater fish species because of its high nutritional value and the resulting economic value. As there exists such great demand for Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822), it is vital that research focused on parasites that may pose a threat to its health be conducted. Specimens of C. gariepinus previously purchased from a fish farm and released into the University of Johannesburg’s research aquarium were found to be infected with gyrodactylid ectoparasites preliminarily identified as Macrogyrodactylus sp. that multiplied liberally in the aquarium tanks. To verify the identification of these parasites and produce a detailed description, this study incorporated advanced morphological and molecular techniques. Morphological techniques involved light microscopic examination of glycerine ammonium picrate (GAP) mounted parasites, which were later compared to three species of Macrogyrodactylus parasitizing C. gariepinus. In addition, scanning electron microscopy of whole worms and isolated haptoral sclerites was performed. Molecular analysis included characterization of the ITS and 18S rDNA fragments. Generated molecular data was compared with that of other species of the genus from GenBank, showing the parasite to be closely related to Macrogyrodactylus congolensis (Prudhoe, 1957). The results presented here will allow for a detailed, updated
re-description of this species and also contribute in future to research on the histopathological impacts of the parasite on the fish host and possible control of these parasites in aquaculture.
Madeleen Jansen van Rensburg
Faculty of Health Sciences
Title Photobiomodulation of adipose-derived stem cells for improved differentiation & neuronal cell maintenance
Authors
Madeleen Jansen van Rensburg, Anine Crous and Heidi Abrahamse*
Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, PO Box 17011, Johannesburg 2028, South Africa.
*Corresponding Author: Prof Heidi Abrahamse; habrahamse@uj.ac.za; Tel.: +27 115596550; Fax: +27115596884
Abstract
Due to the very restrictive ability, and often, the inability of the mammalian nervous system to regenerate and repair itself following trauma, strategies are required to assist in improving this regenerative process. Many avenues have been explored for neuronal regeneration, and few show more promise than that of stem cell therapy. Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) are likely candidates to assist in the recovery process as ADSCs can be manipulated through combined use of growth factors and photobiomodulation (PBM) to differentiate into neuronal cells. It has been shown that PBM carries the potential for effective ADSCs differentiation, maintenance and proliferation. PBM utilizes photons to modify and adjust the biological activities of stem cells. PBM has been shown to improve differentiation and proliferation of ADSCs over that of other strategies that have been employed. This in vitro study aims to differentiate ADSCs into neuronal cells. Induced differentiation by PBM will be performed on ADSCs with the additional supplementation of growth factors. Successful differentiation will be determined through flow cytometry, immunofluorescent microscopy, biochemical analysis, ELISA, and PCR.
Keywords
Photobiomodulation, Stem cell therapy, Regenerative medicine, Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells, Neurodegenerative disorders, Neuronal cells
Mpho Maduenyane
Faculty of Science
ONE OF AFRICA’S MOST IMPORTANT AQUACULTURE SPECIES INFECTED WITH MACROGYRODACTYLUS PARASITES
Mpho Maduenyane, Quinton M. Dos Santos, Annemariè Avenant-Oldewage.
Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, South Africa.
Within the entire African aquaculture industry, South Africa is one of the top five producing countries. The African sharptooth catfish is one of the most actively cultured freshwater fish species because of its high nutritional value and the resulting economic value. As there exists such great demand for Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822), it is vital that research focused on parasites that may pose a threat to its health be conducted. Specimens of C. gariepinus previously purchased from a fish farm and released into the University of Johannesburg’s research aquarium were found to be infected with gyrodactylid ectoparasites preliminarily identified as Macrogyrodactylus sp. that multiplied liberally in the aquarium tanks. To verify the identification of these parasites and produce a detailed description, this study incorporated advanced morphological and molecular techniques. Morphological techniques involved light microscopic examination of glycerine ammonium picrate (GAP) mounted parasites, which were later compared to three species of Macrogyrodactylus parasitizing C. gariepinus. In addition, scanning electron microscopy of whole worms and isolated haptoral sclerites was performed. Molecular analysis included characterization of the ITS and 18S rDNA fragments. Generated molecular data was compared with that of other species of the genus from GenBank, showing the parasite to be closely related to Macrogyrodactylus congolensis (Prudhoe, 1957). The results presented here will allow for a detailed, updated
re-description of this species and also contribute in future to research on the histopathological impacts of the parasite on the fish host and possible control of these parasites in aquaculture.
Mpho Maduenyane
Faculty of Science
ONE OF AFRICA’S MOST IMPORTANT AQUACULTURE SPECIES INFECTED WITH MACROGYRODACTYLUS PARASITES
Mpho Maduenyane, Quinton M. Dos Santos, Annemariè Avenant-Oldewage.
Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, South Africa.
Within the entire African aquaculture industry, South Africa is one of the top five producing countries. The African sharptooth catfish is one of the most actively cultured freshwater fish species because of its high nutritional value and the resulting economic value. As there exists such great demand for Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822), it is vital that research focused on parasites that may pose a threat to its health be conducted. Specimens of C. gariepinus previously purchased from a fish farm and released into the University of Johannesburg’s research aquarium were found to be infected with gyrodactylid ectoparasites preliminarily identified as Macrogyrodactylus sp. that multiplied liberally in the aquarium tanks. To verify the identification of these parasites and produce a detailed description, this study incorporated advanced morphological and molecular techniques. Morphological techniques involved light microscopic examination of glycerine ammonium picrate (GAP) mounted parasites, which were later compared to three species of Macrogyrodactylus parasitizing C. gariepinus. In addition, scanning electron microscopy of whole worms and isolated haptoral sclerites was performed. Molecular analysis included characterization of the ITS and 18S rDNA fragments. Generated molecular data was compared with that of other species of the genus from GenBank, showing the parasite to be closely related to Macrogyrodactylus congolensis (Prudhoe, 1957). The results presented here will allow for a detailed, updated
re-description of this species and also contribute in future to research on the histopathological impacts of the parasite on the fish host and possible control of these parasites in aquaculture.
Garikai Marangwanda
Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment
Optimization of the co-combustion process of coal and biomass in coal fired boilers by use of Computational Fluid Dynamics
The study will be conducted with the aim to optimise co-combustion of coal and saw dust by modelling the process using Computational Fluid Dynamics. Due to the increasing demand to reduce pollutant emission hence tackle global warming issues, supplementing the coal combustion processes with renewable energy sources provides an attractive approach. In existing coal-fired boilers, co-firing using biomass or waste provides an attractive approach to pollution control and efficient use of both the fossil fuel and biomass waste. Sawdust being a waste, poses a great risk to the environment and infrastructure as it can burn for almost a year once set on fire. Therefore, current stockpiles of saw dust from sawmills can be harnessed as a more sustainable energy source. Eventually the energy mix of a country is greatly diversified leading to lower fixed costs incurred due to importation of fuel.
Efficiency is improved by firing of the boilers with knowledge of the combustion characteristics which can be expected, hence the interest of this research. Combustion models depend on the type of boiler being investigated as each boiler has its own characteristics. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) has been applied to study combustion of coal and biomass with the intention to understand fully the different aspects associated with combustion. To achieve the aim articulated above, the following objectives have to be met: characterise solid sawdust and coal, to develop a co-combustion model, to perform validation using a model boiler and to optimise the co-combustion of saw dust and coal. C++, Solidworks and ANSYS softwares will be employed to develop a combustion model, design a boiler and simulate combustion. The research work will help create better understanding of the physics involved in co- combustion. Improved knowledge on modelling techniques of combustion will increase the database of CFD techniques applicable to combustion. Results will also justify the need for diversifying of the fuel portfolios of the existing power plants.
Shiksha Dheda
Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment
Abstract
Most, if not all, persons have reacted negatively to stress at some point. However, when daily functioning is hindered by feelings of anxiety, it is likely that a person could be suffering from an anxiety or anxiety related disorder.
There are many treatment options available for anxiety and anxiety related disorders that vary in effectiveness depending on the patient, mental health professional and environment in which the treatment is administered. Many sufferers, however, do not approach mental health professionals with their disorders in the first place.
This research aims to create a game that is financially and physically accessible and shields the user from societal stigma (related to mental health disorders) to an extent. This will be achieved by developing an interactive game that will be able to be integrated into an anxiety management program. Based on the feedback received for the initial prototype which found that this game could be effective at managing anxiety symptoms, with an average rating of 65% being awarded for the game’s effectiveness at managing anxiety, it can be deduced that this game can contribute positively towards the effective management of anxiety. Hopefully, this research will contribute to the creation of many more accessible and affordable serious games that aim to assist with mental health issues; a serious, albeit often overlooked societal vulnerability.
Keywords
anxiety; serious games; management; accessible; mental health; game development; emotional neutrality
Cherisé Walter
Faculty of Art, Design & Architecture
The research paper explores how the interior design discipline can be informed through the technology spheres of the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) which imparts a collaboration amongst disciplines and formulates a continuous multi-discipline working approach.
The fourth industrial revolution (4IR) impacts most individuals, societies and countries who have access to the internet of things (IoTs) and technology devices, changing the way humans live, work and communicate (Schwab 2016:1). The 4IR is not only about technology, its fundamental difference is due to these technologies combining: as a result, the physical, digital and biological spheres overlap (Schwab 2016:1,8).
The preliminary literature review discusses the essence of a multi-discipline domain that is formulated through the technology spheres and how it differs from multidisciplinarity, interdisciplinarity and transdisciplinarity approach.
This study will take a research approach in the interpretive paradigm working within the context of the fourth industrial revolution. An inductive theory approach will be used to create a criteria derived from the fourth industrial revolution to select case studies and to analyse the case studies for emerging themes, theories or conceptual frameworks. The data collected would be approached through a qualitative methodology to create an in-depth investigation into the research. Case studies would be selected through purposive sampling technique derived from the fourth industrial revolution. A multiple-case study approach would be undertaken to analyse the data and inform on the interior design discipline.
Therefore, the research paper will explore how the interior design discipline can be informed through the technology spheres of the fourth industrial revolution.
Feliz Ntshangase
Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment
Abstract
In this paper, a class e multi objective RF power amplifier is built using a dielectric material i.e. soy flour. The soy flour is connected as a capacitance at the load network. The resultant output is a 4 KV sine wave generated from a 12 V DC supply. The circuit operates in the Industrial, Scientific and Medical (ISM) band at 13.56 Mhz as permitted by the Federal Communications Commission. The control circuit is based on the curiosity nano micro-controller. The controller is used to generate a perfect square wave of 13.56 MHz and do aid current sensing and temperature sensing results. This circuit can be used to build an RF heater generator to dry foods, wood, melt glue, roofing and etc. This circuit can also be used in switch mode power supplies of IoT to help battery operated devices in saving energy by allowing more output power with less input power. Lastly the circuit can be used in medical, where organ or blood transplant is needed, to keep the organs warm or at a specific temperature without tempering and nutrition of the organs.
Daniella Da Silva
Faculty of Health Sciences
Photobiomodulation, an Effective Approach to Enhance Proliferation and Differentiation of Adipose Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells into Osteoblasts
Abstract
The most severe chronic bone metabolic disease in humans is dubbed as osteoporosis. Currently, Adipose derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (ADMSCs) when used in stem cell regenerative therapy has shown the potential to treat osteoporosis disease. Photobiomodulation (PBM) has sparked interest on an international scale because of its’ ability to proliferate stem cells and to induce their differentiation. The use of growth factor differentiation inducers and PBM combined has demonstrated enhanced proliferation and differentiation of ADMSCs into osteoblast cell lines. In this study, the combined use of differentiation inducers and PBM at various wavelengths of 825 nm, 525 nm and their combination (825 nm and 525 nm) using a fluency of 5 J/cm2 will be investigated to determine the proliferation and differentiation of ADMSCs into osteoblasts. The cells will be characterised using early and late osteoblast protein markers to identify osteoblast antigens using flow cytometry and immunofluorescence. Alkaline phosphatase activity will be evaluated using spectroscopy and immunofluorescence. Alizarin red S will be used for the expression of osteocalcin. Inverted light microscopy will identify cell morphology. The proliferation and viability of the cells will be determined using ATP, EdU, Trypan Blue and MTT assays. Cell cytotoxicity will be measured using LDH. The cell mitochondrial membrane potential will be identified using immunofluorescent microscopy. Flow cytometry will determine the Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS). The scratch test will evaluate the migration ability of the cells. The genetic expression of transcription factors, signalling proteins and miRNAs was determined using real time-PCR and ELISA. The successful outcome of this in vitro study will assist in providing relevant scientific knowledge and a standardization for osteogenic differentiation.
Keywords
Photobiomodulation; Adipose Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells; Differentiation; Proliferation; Osteoblasts.
Nokalika Zwane
Faculty of Science
Electro-Fenton process combined with anodic oxidation at sub-stoichiometric titanium oxide (Ti4O7) ceramic electrode for the mineralization of tetracycline
Abstract
The exploration of electrochemical advanced oxidation processes (EAOPs) have become popular for the degradation of pharmaceutical pollutants in wastewater treatments. This work investigated the degradation of tetracycline (TC), toxicity and intermediate studies using EAOPs. Carbon felt and Ti4O7 layer deposited on Ti substrate were used respectively as cathode and anode. Electro-Fenton (EF), anodic oxidation (AO) and electro-Fenton coupled with anodic oxidation (EF/AO) systems were used to degrade TC and their performances were compared. EF/AO performed most efficiently, with removal efficiency of 64.89±0.17% and 68.27±0.43%, at 20 ppm and 50 ppm TC, respectively, as compared to EF and AO. Then different applied currents were investigated for 20 ppm and 50 ppm TC, using EF/AO. Optimal conditions were established for 20 ppm and 50 ppm TC to investigate the intermediate products using HPLC and toxicity tests. The toxicity of the solution was less than initial stage of treatment, corresponding to the formation of less toxic by-products. EF/AO process using Ti4O7 anode and CF cathode provides low energy and high mineralization current efficiency (MCE) with high removal efficiency, because of the production of hydroxyl radicals at the surface of the anode and also a large surface area and porosity of CF. The ceramic sub-stoichiometric Ti4O7 anode with CF (EF/AO) can be used to degrade pharmaceuticals successfully.
REFERENCES
[1]. Arotiba, O.A.; Orimolade, B.O.; Koiki, B.A. Curr Opin Electrochem. 2020, 22, 25-34
[2]. An T, Yang H, Li G, et al. Applied Catalysis B. 2010; 94:288–294.
[3]. Peleyeju MG, Arotiba OA. Environ. Sci. Water Res. Technol. 2018; 4: 1389–1411.
Keywords
Tetracycline, anodic oxidation, electro- Fenton process, Ti4O7-ceramic anode, carbon felt, TOC removal efficiency
Helené Coetzee and Ina Wagenaar
Faculty of Science
Abstract
Sharks are abundant, widely spread and play role a vital in marine ecosystems, but not extensively studied in terms of the biology and reproduction. Three of the nine species of the family Sphyrnidae (hammerheads and bonnet heads) are found in South African oceans. The aim of this study was to describe the germ cell development in the testes of mature male Scalloped Hammerheads (Sphyrna lewini). Three mature male S. lewini were caught at Zinkwazi, Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa. Total length, total weight, and testes measurements were taken. A standard necropsy was performed on each shark and the testes were collected for histological processing. The histological assessment revealed that the testes of this species of sharks consist of seminiferous tubules which form part of a larger lobular structure with germ cells in different stages of development. Germ cell development takes place in the seminiferous tubules, with initial development from the basal membrane on the periphery of the seminiferous tubule.
The spermatogonia originate from the basal membrane of the seminiferous tubule through the process of mitosis. Spermatogonia then undergo meiosis to form primary and secondary spermatocytes. Secondary spermatocytes then undergo haploid division to form spermatids. Immature spermatozoa develop from the spermatids which then move to the periphery of the basal membrane. Mature spermatozoa clump together to from a distinctive spiral structure in the eosinophilic matrix to mature near the basement membrane of the seminiferous tubule. In conclusion the histological methods proved successful to further describe spermatogenesis and reproduction of mature male Scalloped Hammerheads. The various stages of development identified are similar to a recent study done on the Black-spotted Smooth Hound shark.