All Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Permanent URI for this collection

Browse

Recent Submissions

Now showing 1 - 20 of 5674
  • ItemOpen Access
    An investigation into the inflammatory properties of tenofovir in HepG₂ human liver cells
    (University of the Free State, 2023) Vazi, Songezo; Tiloke, C.; Van Zyl, Sanet
    𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Since the introduction of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs in 1996, the life expectancy of HIV-infected individuals has been nearly comparable to that of HIV-uninfected individuals. However, increasing evidence shows that antiretroviral therapy (ART) is associated with increased metabolic disorders, systemic inflammation, and hepatotoxicity. Tenofovir induces oxidative stress via mitochondrial DNA polymerase inhibition in HepG2 cells at chronic exposure. Although in vitro and in vivo studies have been performed to determine the effect of tenofovir on the inflammatory response, the inflammatory effect of this antiretroviral drug in liver cells still needs elucidation. 𝗔𝗶𝗺: This study aimed to investigate tenofovir's potential pro- and anti-inflammatory properties in HepG₂ human liver cells at different time frames. 𝗠𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗱𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆: HepG₂ cells were treated with tenofovir (1.2 μM) over 24h and 120h; pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines levels were assessed using a SimpleStep human ELISA kit specific to each analyte (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-10). Protein expression of p-NF-ĸBp65, NF-ĸBp65, p-IĸBα, and IĸBα was determined with Western blotting. A quantitative polymerase chain reaction assessed the mRNA expression of 𝘕𝘍-κ𝘉𝘱65 and 𝘐𝘬𝘉α. 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀: Tenofovir significantly increased IL-6 and 10 levels, 𝘕𝘍-κ𝘉𝘱65 mRNA expression and NF-κBp65, p-NF-κBp65 and p-IκBα protein expression. Additionally, a significant decrease in IL-1β levels and 𝘐κ𝘉α mRNA expression at 24h were observed. After 120h, tenofovir-treated cells showed increased p-NF-κBp65 and IκBα protein expression. Furthermore, a significant decrease in IL-6 and IL-10 levels, 𝘕𝘍-κ𝘉𝘱65 and IκBα mRNA expression and NF-κBp65 and p-IκBα protein expression were observed. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻: The study demonstrated that tenofovir elevated the anti-inflammatory cytokines at acute exposure. Tenofovir increased pro-inflammatory cytokines and downregulated anti-inflammatory cytokines at chronic exposure of tenofovir in HepG₂ human liver cells. The knowledge obtained from tenofovir-induced inflammatory changes can provide valuable information regarding tenofovir’s clinical use.
  • ItemOpen Access
    A conceptual framework to improve the reporting quality of strength training exercise descriptors in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction rehabilitation programs
    (University of the Free State, 2023) Vlok, Arnold; Coetzee, F. F.
    𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 Muscle weakness after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is persistent and associated with abnormal biomechanics, poor knee function, new knee injury and development of osteoarthritis. The proposed drivers of persistent muscle weakness after ACLR are changes in muscle morphology, atrophy-inducing cytokines in the knee joint, and neurological alterations on a cortical and spinal level. The most accessible approach to target muscle weakness is various types of strength training exercises. However, another explanation for persistent weakness after ACLR rehabilitation could be that programs are not following the best practice for strength training. Failure to improve muscle strength after ACLR could be caused by faulty programming of exercise descriptors (e.g., exercise type, frequency, load). 𝐀𝐢𝐦 The main aim of this study was to develop a conceptual framework to improve the reporting quality of strength training exercise descriptors in ACLR rehabilitation programs. 𝗠𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗱𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆 The study was conducted in three stages, including a Scoping Review, focussing on which strength training exercise descriptors are reported in ACLR research after ACLR surgery, and comparing the current standards of reporting ACLR strength training exercise descriptors to international best practice strength training guidelines. The modified e-Delphi survey was utilised to formulate a conceptual rehabilitation framework for ACLR. The last stage included validating the preliminary ACLR conceptual framework that included a core outcome set (COS) of strength training exercise descriptors for reporting after ACLR. 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗰𝘂𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 We extracted data on 117 exercises from 41 studies. A median of seven of the 19 possible exercise descriptors were reported (range 3-16). Reporting of specific exercise descriptors varied across studies from 93% (name of the strength training exercise) to 5% (exercise aim). On average, 46%, 35%, and 43% of the exercise descriptors included in the ACSM, CERT, and Toigo and Boutellier guidelines were reported, respectively. The e-Delphi results from 27 ACLR experts regarding the 21-exercise descriptor definition was 100% consensus agreement (>80% agreement), also 100% consensus agreement on a COS of strength training exercise descriptors (). However, very low consensus agreement on exercise dosages prescribed in ACLR strengthening programs. The validation meeting consisted of four panellists that validated the preliminary ACLR conceptual framework and proposed to re-organise the 13 COS of exercise descriptors into levels of importance regarding the frequency of reporting. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 The proposed ACLR conceptual framework for researchers and clinicians provided a platform for the reporting of strength training rehabilitation after ACLR. Improving the reporting quality of strength training exercise descriptors, definitions, and exercise dosages for ACLR rehabilitation programs can aid in the transfer of ACLR rehabilitation research towards private practice. Therefore, enabling clinicians to implement evidence-based strength training exercise configurations.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Strategies to enhance the approach to prostate cancer screening of African men in the Free State
    (University of the Free State, 2023) Benedict, Matthew Olukayode Abiodun; Claassen, Frederik M.; Steinberg, Wilhelm J.; Mofolo, Nathaniel
    𝗕𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱: Prostate cancer is a significant public health concern in South Africa, with rising incidence and mortality rates, particularly among African men. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening is a practical method for early detection and improved outcomes. However, it carries the risks of overdiagnosis and overtreatment. Recent studies have shown a more significant net benefit of PSA screening for Black men than the general population. However, there are knowledge, attitude and practice gaps among primary healthcare providers and users, especially Black men, regarding prostate cancer screening. Practical strategies to address these gaps are lacking. This study focuses on vulnerable African men in the Free State Province, South Africa. 𝗠𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗱𝘀: This thesis presents the results of five complementary studies aiming to identify gaps in prostate cancer screening and determine strategies to enhance prostate cancer screening among African men in the Free State Province from the perspectives of primary healthcare providers and users. The first study employed a cross-sectional descriptive design, using case record information and self-administered questionnaires to profile Black South African men with prostate cancer attending a tertiary hospital’s oncology and urology clinics in the Free State Province. The second study used a cross-sectional analytical survey design, administering self-administered questionnaires to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of primary healthcare providers in the study setting. The third study also employed a cross-sectional analytical survey design, utilising self-administered questionnaires to investigate African men’s knowledge, cultural beliefs and screening intentions regarding prostate cancer screening. Factors associated with their intention to screen for prostate cancer were examined. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, and associations were tested using chi-squared or Fisher’s exact tests. The fourth and fifth studies comprised a scoping review and a modified Delphi survey to identify and propose strategies to enhance prostate cancer screening among African men in the study setting, addressing the identified gaps. 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀: The findings revealed that aggressive prostate cancer is prevalent among African men in the study setting. Poor knowledge and awareness of the disease and low screening uptake were observed. Factors such as dietary habits, lifestyle and presentation time were associated with aggressive disease at diagnosis. Cultural beliefs influenced screening uptake among men. Factors associated with a higher intention to screen included reduced fear, perceived benefits, situational barriers, and perceived risk of developing prostate cancer. Regarding primary healthcare providers, the majority demonstrated poor knowledge (64.8%), neutral attitudes (58.6%) and poor practice (40.0%) related to prostate cancer screening. Female providers, lower cadre nurses and community health workers had lower knowledge scores. Lack of prostate cancer-related continuing education was significantly associated with poor knowledge, negative attitudes and poor practice among healthcare providers. The study proposed strategies to address the identified gaps among African men and primary healthcare providers. Community-oriented approaches involving the active participation of both providers and community members were emphasised. These strategies focused on relevant prostate cancer health education topics in public spaces, employing diverse, comprehensive, user-friendly and culturally sensitive methods. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻: This thesis highlights the gaps in prostate cancer screening among African men and primary healthcare providers in the Free State Province, South Africa. Targeted strategies are needed to enhance prostate cancer screening uptake and improve outcomes in this vulnerable population. Implementing the proposed strategies can improve awareness and knowledge of the disease and ultimately enhance screening practices among African men in the study setting.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Experiences of health sciences students residing on campus during university recess: a photovoice study
    (University of the Free State, 2023) Kekana, Palesa Mildred; van Jaarsveldt, Deirdre Elizabeth; Mathebula, Mikateko
    This study addressed the lack of empirical research on the experiences of South African health sciences students residing on campus during university recess. The health professional governing bodies in South Africa require students to gain clinical competence through work-integrated learning, which is often undertaken during university recess. Yet, literature on this specific topic could not be retrieved. Studies on clinical learning in the health sciences environment focus solely on the clinical workplace, without considering students residing in campus residences during recess. The unknown struggles and potential challenges faced by health sciences students during recess could raise significant issues that higher education institutions in South Africa should consider. To address this research gap, participatory research utilising the photovoice method was employed to answer the research question: what are the experiences of health sciences students residing on campus during recess at a specific university? Four health sciences students were recruited through purposive sampling to participate in a series of workshops. They were provided with cameras to document their experiences on campus during university recess. Discussions and an exhibition of the photographs were conducted, resulting in the identification of 13 themes that were clustered into four, namely, sharing personal space, support services and structures, security, and character building and personal development. These clustered themes flagged that the co-researchers experienced a loss of sense of belonging, linked to inadequate support during university recess. Moreover, the study demonstrates the feasibility of implementing participatory research under challenging conditions, such as COVID-19 restrictions. The participatory method empowered co-researchers to advocate for themselves and others, thereby shedding light on issues that matter for institutional transformation. It would be advantageous to expand the research with more participants, across disciplines, and over longer periods of recess to inform policies and guidelines relating to recess periods.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex content in nursing education programmes: a mixed method systematic review
    (University of the Free State, 2023) Coetzee, Tyrone Brett; Van Jaarsveldt, Deirdre Elizabeth; Fichardt, Anna Elizabeth
    𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: A prevailing heteronormative approach observed within nursing programmes could perpetuate non-inclusive attitudes amongst nurses. A paucity of published evidence indicated the need to undertake a comprehensive synthesis of evidence regarding LGBTI content in nursing programmes. 𝗣𝘂𝗿𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗲: This MMSR set out to critically synthesise existing evidence in the literature on LGBTI content in nursing programmes in order investigate what evidence exists in the literature on LGBTI content in nursing programmes. The MMSR is provided an updated and comprehensive insight into the presence/inclusion of literature which covers LGBTI-related content in nursing education programmes. 𝗠𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗱𝘀: A mixed method systematic review, conducted according to Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Manual for Evidence Synthesis Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses using the (PRISMA) guidelines, guided the review process. The MMSR followed systematic approach to the search and selection of literature. Data sources were identified within EbscoHost Web, Scopus and Google Scholar. A convergent integrated approach for data integration and synthesis was followed. Data were extracted with the use of two standardised data extraction tools. Through inductive reasoning and MMSR processes of thematic analysis, data transformation, data integration and data synthesis of information from qualitative, quantitative, and mixed method studies. The main search identified 316 publications (n=316) resulting in ten (n=10) articles for quality appraisal. Data of nine (n=9) articles included in this review were extracted. A thematic analysis (manually performed) aided in identification of recurrent themes. 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀: LGBTI content in nursing programmes were found to be present but lacking specificity and relevance. The context in which the included studies were conducted linked several social and health related LGBTI aspects, regardless of location. However, location and local belief system dictated extremes to which LGBTI inclusivity was practiced. The review findings further elaborate that curricular revision is necessary in the advancement of social justice, to overcome challenges and barriers to LGBTI inclusion. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: In nursing education, a prevailing heteronormative approach creates large gaps in cultural and clinical competencies regarding LGBTI health issues. The concepts of inclusivity, representation, respect, and recognition, according to the review findings, LGBTI content should be included in teaching and learning offerings provide new foci and understandings within the LGBTI research area. Education on LGBTI health disparities could foster a keen appreciation of the impact of stigma and discrimination experienced by LGBTI persons. To advance a social justice agenda for marginalised and vulnerable populations, LGBTI health-related content in nursing education and healthcare service delivery programmes could enrich and supplement content currently presented.
  • ItemOpen Access
    A conceptual map of knowledge transfer in occupational therapy clinical practice within central South Africa
    (University of the Free State, 2023) Swanepoel, Azette; Janse van Vuuren, Elizabeth Cornelia; Nayar, Shoba
    𝗕𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱:Knowledge informs occupational therapy clinical practice and contributes to quality patient care and treatment outcomes. Four types of knowledge from an occupational therapy perspective were utilised in this study, namely, propositional (theory and research), procedural (practice experience), personal, and client knowledge. Literature has deemed propositional knowledge in the form of research evidence essential for quality occupational therapy service delivery. Nevertheless, occupational therapists and clients transfer procedural, personal, and client knowledge in clinical practice. The expert knowledge of therapists and clients are not fully recognised yet. The ongoing practice–theory gap might be indicative of limited knowledge transfer that may exist and the lack of integration of the different types of knowledge in practice (Turpin & Iwama, 2011). This is an indication of a need for a deeper investigation into this phenomenon of knowledge transfer, as literature does not give a clear picture of what comprises the types of knowledge transferred to occupational therapy practice in South Africa. The aim of the study was to develop a conceptual map of knowledge transfer in clinical practice within the occupational therapy context of central South Africa. 𝗠𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗱: The study followed a multiple-method methodology over three phases that were emergent in nature. During phase 1, a scoping review was conducted; phase 2 of the study comprised Semistructured interviews with nine participants and Q methodology with 14 participants. During phase 3, respondent validation of a draft conceptual map of knowledge transfer took place where after the final conceptual map was built. Participants were occupational therapists working in central South Africa. 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀: The results of the scoping review yielded an uneven distribution of the content and perceived importance of knowledge transfer in clinical practice. Two factors were extracted from the Q method surveys. Thematic analysis of the two factors identified four themes on knowledge transferred from the perspective of occupational therapists in occupational therapy practice, namely, theory and research, practice experience, patient–therapist relationship, and the patient’s voice in clinical practice. These themes highlight the dissonance between what is presented by scholars in peer reviewed journals versus the real-world experiences of the clinician. In phase 3, the conceptual map building process delivered a multidimensional, multidirectional conceptual map consisting of four concepts (theory and research, practice experience, patient-therapist relationship, and patient’s voice in clinical practice) and four types of knowledge (propositional, procedural, personal, and client). The results show the integration of the types of knowledge and confirm knowledge transfer in clinical practice to be a complex and ongoing process. 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: The conceptual map depicts how contextually relevant knowledge might be created, and how an integration of the types of knowledge that are transferred would manifest in occupational therapy clinical practice. The process of building the conceptual map confirmed that knowledge is created in clinical practice by multiple role players including therapists and patients, as well as academics. The process of knowledge transfer is continuous and dynamic, because no two occupational therapists have the same theoretical knowledge, practice experience, or personal knowledge. Moreover, no two patients present similar signs and symptoms of a condition or disease, nor do they have similar values, beliefs, and contexts. 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: Clinicians and academics need to share the wealth of their knowledge and, in doing so, build on the body of contextually specific knowledge of the profession. Furthermore, giving a voice to clinicians is necessary to close the practice-research gap further. More research on knowledge transferred between the patient and therapist regarding cultural practices, the development of personal knowledge in clinical practice, and how both contribute to quality service delivery should be conducted. Follow-up studies should be considered to determine the type and content of knowledge that is transferred in clinical practice across all of South Africa, not just the central region, to build on the existing conceptual map.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Development of a clinical hand rehabilitation guideline for second to fifth metacarpal fractures in South Africa
    (University of the Free State, 2023) Keller, Monique Marié; Barnes, Roline Yvette; Brandt, Corlia
    In countries, such as South Africa, with limited resources and inequities in their healthcare delivery services optimal hand rehabilitation is essential in their quest to enable individuals sustaining second-to-fifth metacarpal fractures to return without delay to pre-injury functioning and to work safely. Sub-optimal hand rehabilitation service delivery impacts the already strained South African healthcare system, where individuals may return to hospitals or clinics with associated complications leading to time off from work and thus negative socioeconomic consequences (Poolman et al, 2005). Second to fifth metacarpal fractures are generally sustained as a result of motor vehicle accidents, trauma and violence, and in most cases, where the hand makes contact with an object. A fracture of the neck of the fifth metacarpal is one of the most frequent of the hand injuries to be sustained. The problem is that there are no guidelines and best-evidence information available to guide clinical practice which leaves a gap in the knowledge base in this respect. The result is that owing to the individual’s hand not being optimally managed, there would then be a possible delay in returning to work, and more seriously, disability and dysfunction. Three research phases were undertaken to achieve the aim of developing a clinical hand rehabilitation guideline for adults, male and female, between the ages of 20 and 59 years, after conservative and surgical management following a single or multiple second to fifth metacarpal fractures. The first phase included a systematic review according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) principles. The second phase involved a two-staged feasibility study and a cross-sectional study, and included healthy adult participants who met the inclusion criteria. The participants donned two gloves with force sensing resistors (FSR) attached with glue to the finger pads which allowed the finger and grasp forces to be measured. The basic and instrumental activities of daily living (ADL) were performed in a laboratory. The FSR testing phase allowed for the inclusion of grasp types in the guideline, as well as the categorisation of ADL tasks into light, moderate and heavy task categories. The categorisation of ADL tasks allowed the clinicians to give advice, according to the timelines for bone healing, about returning to pre-injury tasks. The third phase involved an eDelphi method, with consideration being given to the Conducting and Reporting of DElphi Studies (CREDES), with recommendations included. In this case, the experts participated in a three-round eDelphi method to reach consensus and to further develop and finalise the clinical hand rehabilitation guideline. The guideline methodology was developed using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II (AGREE II) instrument. After three phases of the study, with the final phase being the eDelphi method, expert consensus was reached on 32 recommendations. A hand rehabilitation guideline consisting of the 32 recommendations was developed by the researcher to inform this research’s clinical guideline which is presented in the format of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC).
  • ItemOpen Access
    Developing an improved seizure diary as a monitoring tool for epileptic patients in South Africa
    (University of the Free State, 2023) Egenasi, Chika Kennedy; Moodley, A. A.; Steinberg, W. J.
    𝗕𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 Epilepsy is a debilitating disease with a high risk of morbidity and mortality globally. A seizure diary is one of the methods described in the literature that can be used to manage patients living with epilepsy. These diaries are available in two formats, paper-based and electronic diaries. This study aimed to develop an improved seizure diary and determine patients’ perception of its use in the management of patients with epilepsy in South Africa. 𝗠𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗱𝘀 In the first phase of this study, a scoping review of literature was performed. An extensive search of appropriate literature was conducted using online databases, such as MEDLINE, Scopus, CINAHL, Cochrane and EBSCOhost. Key phrases, such as seizure diary, paper diary, and seizure tracker, were used to identify and retrieve relevant themes, categories, and subcategories of literature for examination. In the second phase of the study (a cross-sectional study), cohorts of patients with epilepsy were identified at the casualty and local clinics of a hospital in Kimberley, and the neurology specialist epilepsy clinic in Bloemfontein. Questionnaires were distributed to patients, to gather data on their perceptions of and attitudes to the epilepsy diary, and their opinions on what must be included in a seizure diary. The third phase of the study involved a modified Delphi survey with a panel of 10 local and two international experts, who deliberated on what they believed were the required contents of a seizure diary. In the fourth phase, a longitudinal study, a new seizure diary was developed, based on the suggestions of the expert Delphi panel and the recommendations of patients living with epilepsy. The new seizure diary was distributed to patients who had completed the initial questionnaire, and they were requested to use it for six months. In phase 5a (cross-sectional study), patients, relatives, and caregivers (participants) were requested to complete a questionnaire about their experiences of the new seizure diary. Finally, in phase 5b, a final version of the new seizure diary was designed. 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀 In phase 1, 1 125 articles were identified from the database search, of which 23 were selected for review by the study. In phase 2, 182 patients with epilepsy were recruited for the study, 65 were patients who had previous exposure to a seizure diary, and 117 were unexposed. Of the patients who had previous exposure to the seizure diary, 64 (98.5%) found the diary useful, but 15 (23.1%) reported facing various challenges with using the seizure diary. In phase 3, the modified Delphi survey had three rounds, with 12 expert panellists completing each round. Consensus for any item was set at 70%. Eighteen items were suggested as the required contents of a seizure diary. The seizure diary, designed in phase 4, was distributed to 139 patients (81 previously diary-unexposed and 58 who had previous exposure to a seizure diary) to use for six months. In phase 5a, of the 139 patients who received the new seizure diary,100 (67 previously diary-unexposed participants and 33 participants who had previous exposure to a seizure diary) completed questionnaire 2. Participants who had previous exposure to a seizure diary were predominantly very positive about the new diary because it had more information. However, 21.2% preferred the old one, because it was easier to complete. In phase 5b of the study, the final draft of the new seizure diary was designed for use by patients with epilepsy. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 An expert panel of specialists, patients, caregivers, and relatives participated in developing a new seizure diary. Despite a few patients reporting that they preferred the old seizure diary, most participants preferred the new seizure diary and were willing to use it.
  • ItemOpen Access
    The 𝘪𝘯 𝘷𝘪𝘵𝘳𝘰 effects of 𝘔𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘢 𝘰𝘭𝘦𝘪𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘢 on chaperone-mediated autophagy in human HepG₂ liver cancer cells
    (University of the Free State, 2023) Bopape, Matlola Abel; Ntsapi, Matlakala Claudia; Tiloke, Charlette
    𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: The impact of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is most significant in developing countries, including South Africa. Emerging evidence suggests that the cell survival mechanism, chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA), promotes HCC tumour progression and chemotherapeutic drug resistance. Current treatment approach for HCC is guided by the Barcelona Clinic Liver Treatment Strategy (BCLTS), which recommends different treatment approaches depending on the level of tumour progression. Despite their efficacy, currently available chemotherapeutic options have numerous limitations such acquired resistance, recurrence, and hypertension. To address these limitations, phytochemical extracts are increasingly being investigated for the anti-cancer potential. The phytochemical extracts of the medicinal plant, Moringa oleifera (MO) have been shown to induce apoptosis of HCC cells. MO leaves have the greatest abundance of phytochemicals displaying anticancer potential. Investigating the interplay between all-trans-retinoic acid (ATRA), a potential inhibitor of CMA, and MO regarding their effects on CMA holds potential in identifying adjuvant therapeutic approaches for treatment modalities for HCC. 𝗔𝗶𝗺: This study aimed to investigate the 𝘪𝘯 𝘷𝘪𝘵𝘳𝘰 effects of MO aqueous leaf extract on CMA activity in human HepG₂ cancer cells. 𝗠𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗱𝘀: HepG₂ cells were cultured and exposed to MO and ATRA for 24 hours. Thereafter, a cell viability assay was performed and an inhibition concentration 50 (IC50) was determined which was used for all subsequent experiments. The cells were allocated to three treatment groups: MO, ATRA and a combination group of MO and ATRA. A Caspase-Glo™ cell death assay and western blot analysis were also conducted to evaluate changes in lysosome-associated membrane protein type 2A (LAMP2A) and hexokinase II (HK2) protein expression levels. 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀: The cell viability assay results displayed a concentration-dependent decline in reductive capacity following MO and ATRA exposures. An IC₅₀ of 1415 μM (ATRA) and 2198 μg/mL (MO) were observed. The cell death assay revealed decreased caspase-9 activity following the respective treatment exposures. There was a corresponding decline in caspase-3/7 activity following respective treatment exposures, except for MO, where an increase in caspase-3/7 activity was observed. Western blot analysis showed a decline in the expression of LAMP2A and a corresponding increase in the expression of the CMA cargo protein HK2. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻: The results revealed that MO and ATRA could inhibit the growth and proliferation of HCC cells, offering a promising adjuvant therapeutic approach against HCC. Further investigation into these compounds and their underlying mechanisms of action may contribute to developing novel treatment modalities for HCC.
  • ItemOpen Access
    The hepatoprotective effects of 𝘔𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘢 𝘰𝘭𝘦𝘪𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘢 against antiretroviral-induced cytotoxicity in HepG₂ cells
    (University of the Free State, 2023) Saki, Mbasakazi; Tiloke, Charlette; Ntsapi, Matlakala Claudia; De Villiers, Helena Catharina
    𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: The untreated human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), a lentivirus species that attacks immune cells, causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). HIV/AIDS is managed by Antiretroviral therapy (ART). The ART regimen contains nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) associated with oxidative stress. Medicinal plants are often combined with ART to diminish the side effects of ART use. The 𝘔𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘢 𝘰𝘭𝘦𝘪𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘢 (MO) tree extracts have been shown to contain bioactive compounds with antioxidant effects. 𝗔𝗶𝗺: This 𝘪𝘯 𝘷𝘪𝘵𝘳𝘰 study evaluated the cytotoxicity of an NRTI (tenofovir) and its potential amelioration by MO leaf extract. 𝗠𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗱𝘀: HepG₂ cells were exposed to tenofovir, MO, and combination (tenofovir and MO) treatment groups for 24 and 120 hours. MO aqueous leaf extract was prepared, and cytotoxicity was assessed. Markers for oxidative stress and antioxidant response were assessed using spectrophotometry, luminometry, ELISA, qPCR, and western blotting experimental techniques. 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀: At 24 hours, tenofovir decreased MDA 𝘕𝘙𝘍2, 𝘚𝘖𝘋2, 𝘊𝘈𝘛 mRNA, and NRF2, SOD2, and CAT protein expression. It then increased GSH, 𝘎𝘊𝘓𝘊 mRNA and p-NRF2 protein expression. MO decreased GSH levels, NRF2, 𝘎𝘊𝘓𝘊, and 𝘚𝘖𝘋2 mRNA expression and increased 𝘊𝘈𝘛 mRNA, as well as NRF2, p-NRF2, SOD2, and CAT protein expression. At 120 hours, tenofovir increased MDA, NRF2 mRNA, NRF2, p-NRF2, and SOD2 protein expression. It then decreased GSH levels, 𝘎𝘊𝘓𝘊, 𝘚𝘖𝘋2, 𝘊𝘈𝘛 mRNA and CAT protein expression. MO decreased MDA and GSH levels, NRF2 and CAT protein expression. It then increased 𝘕𝘙𝘍2, 𝘎𝘊𝘓𝘊, 𝘚𝘖𝘋2, 𝘊𝘈𝘛 mRNA, p-NRF2, and SOD2 protein expression. The combination treatment group downregulated MDA and upregulated the expression of NRF2, 𝘎𝘊𝘓𝘊, 𝘚𝘖𝘋2, 𝘊𝘈𝘛 mRNA and NRF2, p-NRF2, SOD2, and CAT proteins. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻: Adding MO to tenofovir downregulates reactive oxygen species by upregulating the NRF2-antioxidant pathway to reduce oxidative stress. Therefore, MO has the potential to ameliorate toxicity induced by tenofovir.
  • ItemOpen Access
    The climate change-urban planning nexus in a mountain environment: the case of the Eastern Free State Region of South Africa
    (University of the Free State, 2023) Shezi, Ntombizodumo; Mukwada, Geofrey; Adagbasa, Efosa G.
    Thabo Mofutsanyana District is a rugged and mountainous area located in the eastern part of the Free State Province, South Africa. The area owes its ruggedness to the Drakensberg and Maloti Mountains. Mountain areas have been reported to be more sensitive and vulnerable to climate change, making it necessary to assess climate change in such areas and the surrounding urban areas. This study aimed to identify the negative impacts of climate change in the Thabo Mofutsanyana District and assess how urban planners responded to these impacts. This study used mixed-research methods, including climate data collected from the Koninklijk Nederlands Meteorologisch Instituut (KNMI) Climate Earth Explorer analysed using Microsoft Excel. It used social data from formal interviews with local urban planners and survey questionnaires distributed to urban residents. The social data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and Microsoft Excel. Lastly, the study used spatial data from Google Earth Explorer, and PlanetScope analysed using ArcGIS (ArcMap 10.7.1). The results revealed a statistically significant increase in monthly mean temperature (from 1990 to 2020) experienced in Thabo Mofutsanyana District towns, while the decrease in annual total precipitation (from 1990 to 2020) was not statistically significant. This implies that the increase in temperature results from climate change, while the decrease in precipitation is only climate variability. The results further revealed that the urban planners’ strategies implemented to alleviate the impact of climate change were ineffective due to the magnitude of the effects of climate change, especially flooding during heavy rains and extreme temperatures. Furthermore, it was discovered that the exclusion of climate change during urban planning led to a decline in the protection of Green and Blue Urban Ecological Infrastructure (UEI). The increasing Grey UEI is not sustainable as the blocking of drainage systems and the limited porosity of roads do not reduce the effects of climate change, such as flooding. If not effectively maintained, the Green and Blue UEI will continue to decrease in Thabo Mofutsanyana District, affecting the area’s sustainability. The study concluded that sustainable urban planning could mitigate the effects of climate change in cities and small towns, and help communities adapt to these effects effectively. Incorporating climate change during urban planning is necessary.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Moshweshwe's diplomatic relations with the indigenous chiefs of Southern Africa, 1822-1870
    (University of the Free State, 1994) Seboni, Peter; Marais, A. H.
    Moshweshwe's diplomatic relations and foreign policy with many of his contemporary Black chiefs emanated from a notion of being a great ruler and superior chief in and around the Caledon River valley. He entertained this notion in his early life. He wished to be acknowledged as a man of high status and be obeyed without being questioned. That was his ambition. At one stage while being a young boy he is reported to have killed five young boys who infuriated him by not obeying his command.¹ He wanted to command respect and be revered. But he later realized that respect based on fear does not last as it leads to enmity and challenges. It is generally believed that Moshweshwe was born in about 1786. His place of birth was Menkhoaneng near Butha Buthe in northern Lesotho. His father was Mokhachane the second son of Peete. Moshweshwe's people belonged to the Bamokotedi such as Mohlomi, to be blessed.³ Peete, (Moshweshwe's grandfather) took him there for blessings. The ceremony for passing blessings was conducted by uttering some words and rubbing of foreheads. Mohlomi did all these to young Moshweshwe. In about 1805 Moshweshwe was old enough to be sent to lebollong - an initiation school. Boys were sent to this school to undergo training for manhood and adulthood. Memories were tested to see how retentive they were by encouraging the initiates to recite long praise poems of their choice. Reliability, trustworthiness and loyalty were encouraged. Tolerance, patience and leadership qualities were identified.⁴ Circumcision was a rite that was performed here. The trainers or initiators were trusted men of the community. The initiates were given new names symbolizing a new social status.⁵ After returning from the lebollo Moshweshwe felt he was old enough to marry. He needed cattle of his own to enable him to pay the dowry - bohadi. He was proving to be innovative. Together with his lebollo mate, Makuanyane, (who later bacame a general of his warriors) he went for cattle raiding. They attacked the village of Ramonaheng at Kholelong. They captured almost all his cattle. Moshweshwe praised himself for his feat and praised himself in this way: "Ke 'na Moshoeshoe Moshoashoaila oa ha Kali Lebeola le beotseng Ramonaheng litelu."⁶ Literally translated it means: "I am Moshweshwe, the barber of Kali the shaver that shaved the beard of Ramonaheng." All along he was called Lepoqo and after the Ramonaheng incident the name "Moshweshwe" superceded Lepoqo and in the long run this name ceased to be used. With the cattle available his father and grandfather got him a woman to marry. It was the daughter of a man named Seepheephe and her name was Mabela. It is believed that his marriage took place in 1810. A son was born called Mohato and Mabela came to be called 'Mamohato'⁷ - the term means Mohato's mother. Moshweshwe appeared unhappy. He wished to be superior to all other men. His grandfather again took him to Mohlomi who was at Maritoe - near the present day Ficksburg. His anxiety for megalomania made him appear as though he was mentally deranged. According to Peete and Mokhachane he was to be cured of his "madness". Both he and Peete expected the doctor, (Mohlomi) to give him medical treatment and a talisman. To their surprise they were told that Moshweshwe is to be cured psychologically. Mohlomi went on to say: "....it is truly his heart alone that we are changing, his mind that we are curing and resetting anew his medicine is his knowledge and pursuance of peace and justice in his service and relations with all men regardless of their status .... ". Moshweshwe's attitude had to change if he wished to be anything great. According to Mohlomi he was to look at life in a different perspective. Mohlomi had been a great traveller and had built affinal relationships with many chiefs whose daughters or sisters he married. In every country he visited he married somebody there. He had realized the advantage of such a relationship : it keeps countries in harmony. He was the first man in Southern Africa who had an opportunity to form political alliances had such an idea dawned on his mind. But whenever he left the place he had visited he left his newly married wife behind. He did not take any of the women he had married to his country. They, in turn, were free to re-marry and the children born belonged to him as he was the first man to have paid out the bohadi (lobola) cattle to consumate the first marriage.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Psychosocial factors influencing effective learning among Basotho learners during the COVID-19 pandemic in a rural high school
    (University of the Free State, 2023) Mofokeng, Mantwa M.; Mukuna, Kananga Robert
    The learning process is built on decisions and constant assessments obtained from what is learned and how it is learned, the support given to access knowledge or concepts, and whether what is remembered by the learner is correct. However, this learning process was disrupted by the Corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) lockdown regulations that were put in place under the auspices of the World Health Organization, in order to curb the rapid spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. Also, the COVID-19 pandemic had an impact on teachers and learners’ mental health which prevented effective learning. The primary aim of this study was to explore the psychosocial factors that influenced effective learning among Basotho learners in a rural high school during the era of the COVID-19 pandemic. A literature review gave the background to an observed inquiry using a qualitative approach. Case study design was chosen for this study, since it permitted the researcher to explore the experiences of various stakeholders during the COVID-19 pandemic era of the Basotho learners within their real-world context and collect data on how they make sense of their experiences. A rural high school was purposively chosen as a research site, together with the four learners, four parents or guardians, four teachers, School Governing Body, School Based Support Team and School Management Team members. Data was generated through in-depth interviews and thoroughly analyzed. Narrative analysis was used to analyse the data collected through in-depth interviews. Data was organised through the use of thematic analysis. The study employed interpretivism paradigm. The Protection Motivation Theory and Self-Efficacy Theory constitute the theoretical frameworks of the study. The research concluded that psychosocial factors that influenced effective learning among Basotho learners in a rural high school during the COVID-19 pandemic era ranged from panic behaviour, or collective hysteria to pervasive feelings of hopelessness and desperation, which were associated with negative outcomes including suicidal behaviour. It also triggered a wide variety of psychological problems, such as panic disorder, anxiety, and depression which disturbed effective learning. The research also concluded that learners' reactions to the challenges they faced in the Thabo Mofutsanyana District rural high school and their strategies and remedies to the challenges show that they value teaching and learning. The learners' strategies and efforts to solve the challenges they faced during the COVID-19 pandemic in the rural high school also enhanced teaching and learning.
  • ItemOpen Access
    ’n Missiologiese ondersoek na die rol van vaders in die morele agteruitgang van jongmense in die Dwarsrivier Vallei
    (University of the Free State, 2023) Keet, Eugene Elmar; Baron, Eugene
    Die afwesigheid van ’n vader of vaderfiguur binne die gesinsisteem is ’n groot probleem aangesien dit ’n vakuum in die ouerskapsrol laat ontstaan en ’n negatiewe invloed het op ’n gesin se vermoë om doeltreffend te funksioneer. Die navorsing fokus eerstens op die rol van biologiese vaders van jongmense tussen die ouderdomme van 12 tot 23 jaar. Die navorsing maak gebruik van ’n World Café navorsingsmetode, asook persoonlike onderhoude wat met leiers van vyf gemeentes gevoer is om die data vir die studie in te samel. Tydens die navorsing het die navorser ook vaderfigure ingesluit (moeders, voogde, ander agente wat die rol vertolk), wat toegelaat word binne ’n kritiese realis paradigma, en probeer vasstel hoe vyf gemeentes in die Dwarsrivier Vallei (DRV) vaders en vadersfigure bemagtig om hulle taak as missionale leiers en die bekamping van die morele verval van jongmense aan te spreek. Die bevinding van die studie sluit in: dat gemeentes ’n rol kan speel in die bemagtiging van vaders en vaderfigure deur onder andere die prediking, liturgie, en in wese ’n missionale gemeente te wees wat as ’n transformasieruimte vir vaders en vaderfigure kan dien.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Narrative identities of late adolescent males who experienced the loss of a parent
    (University of the Free State, 2023) Schouwink, Frederik; Naudé, Luzelle
    Many children in South Africa have lost a parent through various causes, including HIV/AIDS. In 2021 alone, a staggering 2 920 000 children were affected, with 960 000 young people losing a parent to this disease. Additionally, South Africa recorded the highest number of children who lost their primary caregiver to COVID-19 between March 2020 and April 2021. The death of a parent can be a significant turning point in a young person's life, altering the construction of their narrative identity. Hence, this qualitative study aimed to explore and describe the emerging narrative identities of late adolescent males who had lost a parent between birth and 14 years of age. The current study explored these narratives around parental loss and the subsequent bereavement stressors using the Dual Process Model of Coping with Grief and Bereavement and the Continuing Bonds Model. Furthermore, the study aimed to understand the meaning that the late adolescents ascribed to the loss using the Meaning Reconstruction Theory. In addition, the Gender Role Strain Paradigm was used to explore how the narrative identities and meaning-making processes of late adolescent males have been shaped by gender roles. Being positioned within an interpretivist-constructivist paradigm, this qualitative study was interested in the meaning of individual participants’ experiences. Using a narrative research design, the study specifically focused on turning points or significant events in the participants’ lives. The participants were late adolescent males between the ages of 15 years and 19 years who had lost a parent between birth and 14 years of age. In this study, data were collected through a semi-structured interview using the Life Story Interview method (Atkinson & Hagenah, 1994), and subsequently analysed using thematic narrative analysis. The results suggested that parental loss brought about significant personal changes, secondary losses, and particular challenges as participants came to terms with their grief. Specifically, the grieving process reflected how grief occurs throughout the developmental years. Furthermore, participants’ views signified how gender-related changes in society have affected how male loss is expressed. The participants' views on gender roles indicated significant changes in how society perceives traditional gender roles. The role of significant others was also highlighted as a salient theme and suggests that the surviving parent, extended family, teachers, and peers play a pivotal role in the grief process. Finding meaning in the loss was considered and how participants were engaged in the meaning-making process was demonstrated. The importance of agency and goal-directedness was central in the narratives of parentally bereaved late adolescent males. Lastly, the value of telling the story of loss was also highlighted. This study contributed to the limited research that has been conducted on narrative identity and parental loss. Furthermore, the unique focus on late adolescents who have experienced parental loss using a narrative inquiry approach highlights potential areas of intervention for this population.
  • ItemOpen Access
    The journey of a versatile singer: an autoethnographic study of preparing and performing five different vocal genres and styles
    (University of the Free State, 2023) Engelbrecht, Albertus; Wium, Matildie
    This project is an autoethnographic study aimed at developing the vocal–technical versatility required to perform various Western art music styles and genres appropriately while maintaining a singer’s vocal health. Vocal quality is mainly dependent on glottal closure (also known as glottal adduction), which can be categorised into firm and loose glottal adduction. Vocal registration is strongly interrelated with glottal adduction: simply put, firm glottal adduction corresponds to heavy registration and loose glottal adduction to light registration. Furthermore, vocal registration influences the vertical laryngeal position and subglottal pressure and its varying degrees ideally relate directly to different approaches to styles and genres. I came to realise during my professional career that different vocal registrations are appropriate to different vocal styles of Western art music. These considerations led me to my research question: How might a singer develop the vocal–technical versatility needed to meet the demands of performing diverse vocal genres and styles? The existing scholarly literature does not provide singers with concrete advice regarding vocal–technical adjustment for singing across all the major vocal styles and genres of Western art music while at the same time maintaining vocal versatility. Consequently, my goal with this project was to generate these answers through praxis and making explicit the tacit knowledge embedded in my five examination performances, namely: (1) Bach oratorio; (2) verismo opera; (3) Viennese operetta; (4) 19th-century Lied; and (5) 20th- and 21st-century art song. This project resides in the field of artistic or practice-based research in which I, the performer, became the researcher and used my practical experience as a research tool. In order to describe the personal sensory experiences of my singing, I decided to follow an autoethnographic approach within the paradigm of practice-based research. Central to this investigation was the documentation of the physical processes at play during the preparation period; in producing this documentation, I aimed at describing, in written form, the tacit knowledge of the ways I adapted vocal–technically to the different styles and genres. The data were collected in three ways: (1) by keeping a journal and/or using annotations of my preparation process; (2) informal recordings of my rehearsal period; and (3) video recordings of the actual performances. Critical self-reflection constituted the basis of the data analysis, a process that was conducted as follows: close listening to the examination video recordings in which I analysed the outcomes of my preparation period and compared my findings of the examinations with those of the examiners by consulting their reports. My enquiry revealed that I was able to develop vocal–technical versatility across the five vocal styles and genres by focusing consciously on the appropriate configuration of heavy and light registration. The use of voix mixte played a significant role in the colouration of the voice, which necessitates using light registration (regardless of whether the relevant performance situation gravitates more towards mainstream or historically informed performance). I conclude that my findings suggest that it is possible for singers to adjust their vocal technique convincingly to interpret the different performance practices and styles applicable to the genres which are discussed in this thesis.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Electronic hacking and subversion as tools of foreign policy: a neoclassical realist analysis of cyber power
    (University of the Free State, 2023) Caromba, Laurence; Solomon, Hussein; Neethling, Theodor
    This study develops a new theory of cyber power as a tool of foreign policy, focusing on sovereign states as the unit of analysis and drawing from the theoretical assumptions that are inherent in the realist paradigm of International Relations. This theory describes and classifies the nature of cyber power in international politics, and seeks to explain why different states make differing choices about which cyber strategy to adopt. The study introduces a conceptualisation of cyber power that incorporates both computer hacking and social media disinformation campaigns within a single framework, in which both types of cyber operations are understood as methods for degrading and destroying trust. It then analyses the utility, limitations, and costs associated with technical and persuasive of cyber power, and argues that both forms require the attacking state to accept significant trade-offs. This suggests that states are unlikely to use these tools unless they have pressing reasons to do so. Building upon on this insight, the study then develops a new typology of four cyber strategies: “restrained”, “technical-aggressive”, “persuasive-aggressive”, and “combined-aggressive”. It hypothesises that cyber strategy selection by states is primarily determined by two independent variables: their external security requirements and their institutional preferences. States with high external security requirements are more likely to make aggressive use of technical cyber power, while states with negative institutional preferences are more likely to make aggressive use of persuasive cyber power. This theory provides a parsimonious and compelling explanation for cyber strategy selection. To test and apply the theory, three empirical case studies are conducted on Brazil, the United States of America, and the Russian Federation. The findings reveal that Brazil has adopted a restrained strategy, while the United States has chosen a technical-aggressive strategy, and Russia has selected a combined-aggressive strategy. These empirical findings are congruent with the expectations of the theory. Lastly, the theory is applied to predict how the cyber strategies of these states might evolve if their associated independent variables were to change. The resulting analysis suggests that the emergence of multipolarity in the international system is likely to be associated with the increased use of both technical and persuasive cyber power by state actors.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Tommy Atkins In South Africa: first-hand accounts of the experiences of British soldiers during the Anglo-Boer war, 1899–1902
    (University of the Free State, 2023) Venter, Louis Edian; Oelofse, Marie Magdaleen; van Zÿl, J. J. R.
    This dissertation studies the experiences of 47 British soldiers as recorded in their first-hand accounts (diaries, letters, and personal remembrances) during the Anglo-Boer (South African) War between 1899 and 1902. Four facets of the experiences of these British soldiers during the War are studied. The first facet is the British soldiers’ journeys to South Africa, which includes their experiences of departing from home, the journey by ship to South Africa, and their first impressions upon landing. The second facet is the British soldiers’ experiences during campaigns, which includes their journeys to the front, experiences during battles, as well as everyday duties during campaigns. The third facet is the British soldiers’ experiences of life on the veld, which includes their experiences of sport and other pastimes, provisions such as food, water and clothing, as well as climate and animal life. The final facet studied is the experiences of British soldiers in social relations with South Africans and with other British soldiers, as well as experiences concerning religion and medical care. To this end, the dissertation used 47 first-hand accounts such as diaries, letters and personal remembrances that the British soldiers themselves documented during (or after) the war, recounting their personal attitudes and actions, namely their experiences. These first-hand accounts offer a glimpse into the lives of some of the men who fought in this important and impactful war. The experiences of the British soldiers with regard to the above-mentioned four facets diverged as the war progressed, and a marked distinction between the experiences of men who served during the four different phases of the war was clearly observed. The Anglo-Boer War may be split into four distinct phases, namely the Boer offensive (October 1899), the first British offensive (November 1899 to February 1900), the second British offensive (February to September 1900) and the guerrilla warfare phase (March 1900 to May 1900). Each phase had its own particular set of military circumstances which had an impact on the recorded experiences of British soldiers.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Identifying and classifying different approaches to acting in selected devised theatre productions
    (University of the Free State, 2023) Nortier, Christelle; van Jaarsveld, Anthea; Cloete, DeBeer Carel
    From a ‘postmodern theatre’¹ perspective, the tendency among most when creating theatre on stage is often more toward devised theatre than a conventional theatre product. This study will focus on identifying and classifying different approaches to acting in selected devised theatre productions. This research’s primary point of departure was to determine the autogenous characteristics of each method of acting and to discover which acting style/styles work best or are most applicable to the devised theatre. ‘Conventional theatre’ follows a set number of acts. Generally, it adheres to Aristotle's theory of plot structure from the fourth century BC (335 BC), with actors reading dialogue on a thrust or proscenium stage. The genre and style of where the text originated are predetermined or suggested in the playwright's mind. Therefore, the director, as well as the actors, have a blueprint of what the play is intended to look like and how it played out during the process of creation by the playwright. This intent is reflected in various ways. Firstly, it is reflected in the dramatist's notes on acting, writing, characters, costumes, locality, stage lighting, and stage directions (Oddey, 1996:16). Horace approaches poetry from a practical standpoint instead of Aristotle's theoretical approach. Around 19 BC, ‘Ars Poetica’ of Horace is considered a core component of rhetoric literacy through his use of satires, epistles, and odes. ‘Ars Poetica’ attempts to create a sense of probability and coherence regarding artistic representation, including diction, dramatic characterisation, meter, poetic inventiveness, and the intended impact (Hajdu, 2014:28-42). In 1863, Freytag's technique allowed studies to visually examine a narrative and acknowledge the plot drama, similar to Aristotle's Poetics (335 BC). His plot is divided into five sections: exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and denouement. (Hajdu, 2014:28-42). In contrast to conventional theatre, ‘devised theatre’ (frequently labelled as ‘collective theatre’) is an approach to theatre-making in which the text or (if it is a predominantly physical theatre-based work) performance outcome develops from collaboration, often through a performing group's improvisatory work (Oddey, 1996:1-4). The study of devised theatre and the exploration of various acting approaches can be linked by examining how postmodernism, a movement that questions established norms and cultural values, has influenced the evolution of theatre practices. Devised theatre, emphasising collaborative and improvisatory work, embodies the postmodern ethos of deconstructing and reconstructing traditional theatrical elements, including acting techniques. This intersection between postmodernism and devised theatre highlights the dynamic nature of contemporary theatre-making, where a diverse range of acting methods, from Stanislavski's realism to Brecht's epic theatre, can be adapted and integrated into this innovative and collaborative approach to creating performances. The approaches to acting, which will form the basis of the theoretical conceptualisation of this study, are based on the writings of Konstantin Stanislavski (1863-1938), Sanford Meisner (1905-1997), and Michel Saint-Denis (1897-1971) on classical acting, (between the late 1800s and early 1900s), David Mamet (1947) and William H. Macy (1950-1984) on practical aesthetics, Lee Strasberg (1901-1982) on method acting and Bertolt Brecht (1898-1956), specifically on the Brechtian method (1964). Three analytical case studies will be undertaken to analyse the applied acting methods to construct a reasonably mapped process that suits devised theatre best. The study contributes to the academic discussions concerning devised theatre and approaches to acting methods. The study also constructs an analytical framework for case study analysis, which could be employed by future studies that embark on similar studies or practitioners who aim to produce devised theatre productions within a contemporary, postmodern context. The research aims to identify and classify different approaches to acting in selected devised theatre productions. This study's fundamental starting point is to identify each acting technique's autogenous traits and ascertain which acting style(s) or styles operate best in or are most appropriate for improvised theatre. The study believes that devised theatre uses a combination of different acting approaches. By conducting three analytical case studies, the study proposes to evaluate the hypothesis to arrive at a conclusion either in favour or opposed to this statement.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Reimagining desire and identity in the title characters of Hamlet and Richard III in a South African context
    (University of the Free State, 2023) Heydenrych, Mattheus; van Jaarsveld, Anthea
    During my Master’s studies in Theatre Directing at East 15 Acting School, London, a question regularly asked by my lecturer, Tony Clark, was: ‘If you were to direct a Shakespeare play now, why would you do it? What would the play say today?’ I started asking myself, ‘If I were to transpose a Shakespeare play into a modern context, what new perspectives and interpretations could be arrived at if I were to read it from a queer perspective? How would that influence the identity and desires of the characters and the interpretation thereof?’ The study aimed to examine what would happen if the sexuality of the characters Richard and Hamlet were changed by transposing 𝘏𝘢𝘮𝘭𝘦𝘵 and 𝘙𝘪𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘥 𝘐𝘐𝘐, into queer adaptations and how that would change the identity and desires of the title characters in the new adaptations. To do this, the study identified ‘unspoken or unconscious lesbian, gay, or queer presence’, or what will be referred to as queer cues, utilising the coding process of Constructivist-Grounded Theory in Hamlet and Richard III by William Shakespeare. Queer Theory has significantly impacted literary analysis. It has broadened the field’s focus beyond conventional binary conceptions of gender and sexuality. Using Queer Theory, one can study how gender and sexuality are disrupted and challenged in texts and how these categories are created and performed through language and narrative. Similarities exist between Queer Theory and Lesbian, Gay, and Queer Criticism (LGQC) as they both examine gender and sexuality. However, their approaches and points of focus are slightly different. While LGQC focuses on analysing particular cultural representations, Queer Theory deconstructs binary categories. One of the fundamental ideas of LGQC is the quest for textual evidence, or rather cues, in the literary interpretation of texts. In most cases, these cues are blatant homoerotic imagery and same-sex interactions, but sometimes these cues are subtle and create a homoerotic atmosphere in a heterosexual work. Several examples of subtle “unspoken or unconscious” cues exist, but this study predominantly focuses on 𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘰𝘴𝘰𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘣𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨. In Tyson (2006), 𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘰𝘴𝘰𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘣𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 is explained as portraying a strong emotional bond between characters of the same sex. The study aimed to examine which 𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘦𝘳 𝘤𝘶𝘦𝘴 could be identified in the scripts through a 𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘦𝘳 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 and how that influenced the transposition of the scripts into new queer adaptations. The focus of this study was mainly on 𝘨𝘢𝘺 𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺. A preliminary analysis made it clear that after examining the characters’ interactions with each other, there were subtle queer cues evident in 𝘙𝘪𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘥 𝘐𝘐𝘐 and 𝘏𝘢𝘮𝘭𝘦𝘵. Other events and interactions were then analysed to see if they supported these cues. In my opinion, the results pointed to elements of 𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘰𝘴𝘰𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘣𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 between the relevant characters, which I interpreted as indications that Richard and Hamlet were gay men. As mentioned above, the study applied the coding process of Constructivist-Grounded Theory. The first step is Initial Coding, followed by Focussed Coding, where categories are refined, and then finally, theory development. The Initial Coding process and the process of 𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘦𝘳 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 identified 𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘦𝘳 𝘤𝘶𝘦𝘴 in the scripts of 𝘙𝘪𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘥 𝘐𝘐𝘐 and 𝘏𝘢𝘮𝘭𝘦𝘵. For these 𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘦𝘳 𝘤𝘶𝘦𝘴 to be identified, the study focussed on the concept of 𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘰𝘴𝘰𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘣𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 and queer interpretation, seeing that the main focus of this study’s inquiry was the relationship between Richard and Tyrrel, and Hamlet and Horatio. The study found that the scripts indeed supported a queer interpretation of 𝘙𝘪𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘥 𝘐𝘐𝘐 and 𝘏𝘢𝘮𝘭𝘦𝘵. During the Focused Coding process, other moments and events in the scripts were identified that can now be interpreted from a queer perspective. During the memo-writing process of Focused Coding, the characters of Tyrrel (in 𝘙𝘪𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘥 𝘐𝘐𝘐) and Horatio (in 𝘏𝘢𝘮𝘭𝘦𝘵) were examined to establish how their interactions supported a queer interpretation. The last part of the coding process (Memo-Writing) was transposing 𝘏𝘢𝘮𝘭𝘦𝘵 and 𝘙𝘪𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘥 𝘐𝘐𝘐 into queer adaptations, where Richard and Tyrrel and Hamlet and Horatio were placed in same-sex relationships. Nevertheless, when reading the queer adaptations, the study found that the queer interpretations of these plays could still not ‘present’ themselves in the scripts alone. A new question emerged: ‘How to present the 𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘦𝘳 𝘤𝘶𝘦𝘴 in the new queer adaptations of 𝘏𝘢𝘮𝘭𝘦𝘵 and 𝘙𝘪𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘥 𝘐𝘐𝘐?’ The study, therefore, included 𝘏𝘢𝘮𝘭𝘦𝘵 and 𝘙𝘪𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘥 𝘐𝘐𝘐, where it was found that the transposition to the stage was necessary to bring to life the ‘queer interpretations’ of the title characters. Clearly, the study needed to include actors’ performances to determine how the characters’ sexuality influenced their identities and desires. The actor’s interpretation and delivery of the lines, their gestures, and actions brought the queer interpretation of the scripts to the forefront.