Radiative Capture of Tensor Polarized Deuterons on Hydrogen Isotopes

This research was sponsored by the National Science Foundation Grant NSF PHY 87-1440

A comparative analysis of phenylpropanoid metabolism, N utilization, and carbon partitioning in fast- and slow-growing Populus hybrid clones

The biosynthetic costs of phenylpropanoid-derived condensed tannins (CTs) and phenolic glycosides (PGs) are substantial. However, despite reports of negative correlations between leaf phenolic content and growth of Populus, it remains unclear whether or how foliar biosynthesis of CT/PG interferes with tree growth. A comparison was made of carbon partitioning and N content in developmentally staged leaves, stems, and roots of two closely related Populus hybrid genotypes. The genotypes were selected as two of the most phytochemically divergent from a series of seven previously analysed clones that exhibit a range of height growth rates and foliar amino acid, CT, and PG concentrations. The objective was to analyse the relationship between leaf phenolic content and plant growth, using whole-plant carbon partitioning and N distribution data from the two divergent clones. Total N as a percentage of tissue dry mass was comparatively low, and CT and PG accrual comparatively high in leaves of the slow-growing clone. Phenylpropanoid accrual and N content were comparatively high in stems of the slow-growing clone. Carbon partitioning within phenylpropanoid and carbohydrate networks in developing stems differed sharply between clones. The results did not support the idea that foliar production of phenylpropanoid defence chemicals was the primary cause of reduced plant growth in the slow-growing clone. The findings are discussed in the context of metabolic mechanism(s) which may contribute to reduced N delivery from roots to leaves, thereby compromising tree growth and promoting leaf phenolic accrual in the slow-growing clone

The relationship between digitised dynamic capabilities and successful digital transformation during times of dramatic social change

The quantitative research detailed in this document studied the impact of dramatic social change [DSC] on the relationship between digitised dynamic capabilities [DDC] and successful digital transformation [SDT] within a South African context. While there has been ample academic theory examining dynamic capabilities [DC] as a strategic response to rapid technological change, the 2020 COVID-19 epidemiological crisis introduced a new context worthy of study. In examining DSC's moderating effect on the various aspects of DDC, the study hoped to make a small contribution towards understanding the specific organisational competencies that support SDT in times of dramatic, external, change. In addition to the above, the research sought to operationalise those processes and routines that were hypothesised to measure distinct sub-capabilities within the multi-dimensional construct of DDC.Mini Dissertation (MPhil)--University of Pretoria, 2020.Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS)MPhilUnrestricte

SPLASH EROSION AS AFFECTED BY THE ANGLE OF INCIDENCE OF RAINDROP IMPACT

Abstract not availabl

Assessment of knowledge, attitudes and practices relating to brucellosis among cattle farmers, meat handlers and medical professionals in Namibia

Abstract Background Brucellosis is a re‐emerging zoonosis of significant socio‐economic, animal and public health importance. It is principally a foodborne or occupation‐associated infection of humans, whose effective control depends on maximum cooperation of high‐risk populations. Objectives The study assessed knowledge, attitudes and practices relating to brucellosis among cattle farmers (communal and commercial), meat handlers (abattoir and butchery workers) and medical professionals (nurses and doctors) in Namibia. Methods Between June 2019 and September 2020, self‐administered questionnaires and questionnaire interviews were carried out in cattle farmers (n = 264), meat handlers (n = 143) and medical professionals (n = 124) in Namibia. Results Overall, 43.50% (231/531) of respondents were aware of brucellosis, with the highest awareness among medical professionals (73.39%, 91/124) and the least in meat handlers (13.99%, 20/143). Awareness of brucellosis was associated with tertiary education (p < 0.001) and the medical profession (p < 0.001). However, most medical professionals (98.39%, 122/124) did not consider brucellosis as a differential diagnosis in cases of persistent febrile illness. A proportion of communal (85.60%) and commercial (71.00%) farmers; abattoir workers (44.40%); butchers (53.50%); nurses (55.60%); and medical doctors (28.00%) consumed raw milk. Conclusions The study identified the purchase of animals of unknown health status; assisting cow delivery; handling of aborted fetuses with no protective wear; consumption of raw milk, homemade cheese, cattle testes and undercooked livers, as risk factors for Brucella infection in cattle and humans. Thus, intensified risk communication, including public health education, is recommended, in particular, among meat handlers and communal farmers, to promote awareness and discourage risky practices