Spatial metaphors of the ancient world: theory and practice

Group C-2 of the Excellence Cluster 264 Topoi Space and Metaphor in Language, Cognition, and Texts is dedicated to the study of spatial metaphors and their functions in texts of different genres, languages, and epochs. This outline of the work of group C-2 takes as its point of departure and theoretical framework a general linguistic typology of spatial metaphors. This outline is followed by a series of case studies ranging from wisdom texts and philosophical treatises to tragedy and from Ancient Egyptian to Shakespearean English. These examples are aimed at illustrating both the challenges and the possibilities of the study and interpretation of spatial metaphors in their respective contexts

The relationship between index testing and California Bearing Ratio values for natural road construction materials in South Africa

Research was done to determine whether a relationship can be established between index testing and CBR (California Bearing Ratio) results. The process involved compiling a database of test results for a range of rock material types across moist and dry regions in southern Africa. The database was compiled in such a way that it represents natural gravels sampled (mostly) for construction or rehabilitation of road layer works. The database included a location description, material description, Weinert N-value, Atterberg Limits, grading analysis and CBR values. In addition, the linear shrinkage product, shrinkage product, grading coefficient, grading modulus and dust ratio were calculated and also used in the analyses. Data were grouped based on climate, rock material type and compaction, and analysed separately. The data were compared with existing prediction models, after which linear and Weibull regressions were performed to derive new models. Over 130 regressions were derived. The results proved poor and this is ascribed to data variability. The data variability, in turn, is the result of test methods with poor reproducibility and repeatability. In short, the test methods (the CBR in particular) resulted in inconsistent data and subsequently poor results, making accurate predictions nearly impossible

Laser-based assessment of road aggregate particle shape and texture properties with the aim of deriving comparative models

Research was undertaken using an innovative three-dimensional (3D) laser scanning tool to study the shape and texture characteristics of road aggregate particles. Aggregate materials used for road construction, including G1 crushed rocks of different geological origins, recycled aggregate and alluvial gravel (not used as aggregate) were used for this study. Representative samples were scanned using the laser system to collect 3D aggregate data for analyses and, subsequently, develop comparative models. The objective was to arrange the aggregate particles in a sequence based on their surface texture. Two models were proposed and key aspects evaluated against each other. Ultimately, one model was selected that may be improved and used for further research. The study found that, while it is possible to use the 3D aggregate scan data to produce comparative models, distinguishing between particle shape and texture proved a daunting task. It was also concluded that particle elongation must be considered as a major influencing factor.The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) Strategic Research Panel (SRP) project TA 2001-001. The authors would like to acknowledge the CSIR R&D office for funding this SRP project.http://www.journals.co.za/ej/ejour_civileng.htmlam201

Spatial Metaphors. Ancient Texts and Transformations

In presenting philological reading of spatial metaphors in ancient texts and their reception based on theoretical approaches to metaphor, this is a pioneering study which also bears testimony to the increasing interest in the potential and cognitive functions of metaphor in literary studies. The individual studies of er a representative synopsis of current theories on spatial metaphors and encompass applications to literary texts from a number of genres and languages ranging from wisdom texts and philosophical treatises to tragedy and from Ancient Egyptian to Shakespearean English, thus spanning almost 3000 years of human thought and language. Based on this framework of theory and practice, this volume collects a series of papers originally delivered at a conference entitled Raum-Metaphern in antiken Texten und deren Rezeption, organized by research group C-2 Space and Metaphor in Cognition, Language and Texts of the Excellence Cluster of Topoi The Formation and Transformation of Space and Knowledge in Ancient Civilizations in Berlin in June 2014

Of elephants and men: politics and nature conservation in South Africa

South Africa's policy of destabilisation of neighbouring countries was closely associated with the rise of South Africa as a leading middleman in the international ivory trade. South African-based traders, acting in partnership or with protection from officers of the South African Military Intelligence Directorate, imported raw ivory from Angola, Mozambique and points further north and re-exported it to markets in the Far East. This was a source of income both for the South African secret services and for individuals associated with them. The same trade routes were also used for trade in other goods, including rhino horn, drugs, gems, currency and weapons. This was not only as a means of earning money but also a technique of destabilisation in itself. The extent of South Africa's involvement in this trade, although suspected by some conservationists, was difficult to prove and did not form the target of any concerted campaign by the leading conservation groups world-wide. In this respect, the strength of the South Africa lobby in the World-Wide Fund for Nature seems to have played a significant role. Since the ending of South Africa's military presence in Namibia and Angola in 1989, the Military Intelligence officers, Special Forces officers and others who conducted the wars for the defence of white South Africa have been intent on the struggle inside South Africa itself. There is evidence that such counter-insurgency specialists are now using Mozambique in particular as a base for operations inside South Africa. Moreover, they continue to have an interest in the ivory and rhino horn trades. Former officers of specialist counter-insurgency units have also found employment as game wardens in national parks. The bold proposals currently being implemented to create large new game parks along the South African-Mozambican border, using modern management techniques and involving local communities in their management, have important implications for politics and national security.ASC – Publicaties niet-programma gebonde