Faculty of Health Sciences

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Preparedness required for ensuring best coordinated use of international urban search and rescue assistance by earthquake affected countries
(2007) Morris, Brendon
Strong earthquakes are frequent catastrophic disasters occurring worldwide and often lead to structural collapse of buildings. Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) is the specialised process of locating, extricating and providing immediate medical treatment to victims trapped in collapsed structures. This research project aimed to identify the key preparedness efforts necessary by an earthquake affected country to ensure best coordinated use of international USAR assistance.
Modulating effects of Fumonisin B1 and Ochratoxin A on immune cells in human carcinoma
(2005) Adam, Jamila Khatoon
Fumonisin B1 (FB1) and ochratoxin A (OTA) represent examples of mycotoxins of greatest public health and agro-economic significance. They ex¬ert adverse effects on humans, animals and crops that result in illnesses and economic losses. Fumonisin B1 are cancer-promoting metabo¬lites of Fusarium proliferatum and F verticillioides, (formerly moniliforme), and are implicated in oesophageal cancer. Ochratoxins are metabolites of both Aspergillus and Penicillium species. These compounds are known for their nephrotoxic effects in all animal species and may promote tumours in humans. In man OTA exhibits unusual toxicokinetics, with a half-life in blood of 840 h (35 days) after oral ingestion. Although much is known regarding the toxicology of these toxins, little is known of the effects of these toxins on the immune system. The aim of this study was to determine and compare the immunomodulating effects of FB1 and OTA in human carcinoma. Initial experiments involved isolating lymphocytes and neutrophils from healthy volunteers. The isolated cells were exposed to either FB1 or OTA on a dose and time dependent level and LD50 of the toxins was determined. Thereafter, challenge tests were performed, whereby lymphocytes and neutrophils isolated from volunteers, oesophageal cancer patients and breast cancer patients were exposed to the LD50 dose of either FB1 or OTA for the appropriate time. The effect of the toxins was demonstrated by viability studies, light microscopy and electron microscopy. Cytokine receptors (CK, TNF and CSF) were evaluated by immuno-cytochemical methods and the levels of circulating cytokines (IL –1, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and TNF-) were determined using ELISA kits.
The effectiveness of homoeopathic simillimum in the treatment of job burnout in the human service field
(2005) Vaithilingam, Heshma; Couchman, Ingrid; Ross, Ashley Hilton Adrian
The purpose of this double blind placebo controlled study was to evaluate the efficacy of homoeopathic simillimum in the treatment of job burnout in the human services field.
The efficacy of kalium bromatum 30CH in the treatment of acne vulgaris
(2005) Nijland, Grant; Steele, Richard
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the Homoeopathic remedy Kalium bromatum 30CH compared to placebo in the treatment of Acne vulgaris. The study was a double blind placebo controlled study. Participants were recruited via advertisements in local newspapers and notices posted at schools, health shops and pharmacies. Thirty volunteers who complied with the inclusion and exclusion criteria were randomly assigned to an experimental or control group of 15 participants each. The treatment period was four weeks which included three consultations. The effect of treatment was measured by determining the reduction in the number of lesions found on the faces of the participants. The lesions were divided into three groups, namely non-inflamed lesions, inflamed lesions and comedones. The Leeds Technique for assessing Acne vulgaris was used.
A homoeopathic drug proving of Chamaeleo dilepis dilepis with a subsequent comparison of this remedy to those remedies yielding the highest numerical value and total number of rubrics on repertorisation of the proving symptoms
(2007) Moore, Debora; Hopkins, Crofton Russell
The purpose of this investigation was to determine the effect of Chamaeleo dilepis dilepis on healthy volunteers (provers), and to record the signs and symptoms produced, so that it may be prescribed to those suffering from similar symptoms as determined by the Law of Similars. A further aim of the investigation was to compare the materia medica of Chamaleo dilepis dilepis as determined by proving symptoms to those remedies yielding the highest numerical value and total number of rubrics on repertorisation of the proving symptoms of Chamaeleo dilepis dilepis.
A homoeopathic drug proving of Chamaeleo dilepis dilepis, analysing symptomatology in relation to the doctrine of signatures
(2007) Pistorius, Liesl; Hopkins, Crofton Russell
This study was conducted by administering Chamaeleo dilepis dilepis 30CH to healthy individuals with the aim of eliciting and documenting the resulting mental, emotional and physical symptomology. Chamaeleo dilepis dilepis was chosen as a substance based on it being indigenous to South Africa and as no other members of the Chamaeleonidae species have been proven
A prospective, epidemiological pilot study to investigate the level of knowledge of homoeopathy and its contextualization in pharmacy front shop assistants in the KwaZulu-Natal area
(2006) De Villiers, Lecia; Korporaal, Charmaine Maria; Steele, Richard
It was my perception, after having worked in the Complementary and Alternative Medicines Industry, that the knowledge and understanding of homeopathy by retail providers, was poor. Considering that pharmacies also sold over-the- counter homeopathic medicine, I felt it would be of value to do an empirical study in order to obtain more accurate data on this topic.
The efficacy of a topical naturopathic complex (Allium sativum MT, Hydrastis canadensis MT, Apis mellifica D3 and Urtica urens D3) in the treatment of Tinea pedis
(2006) Maharaj, Prashadhna Devi; Hall, Cornelia Maria
Tinea pedis, more commonly known as “Athlete’s foot”, is a common acute infection that occurs in warm, humid climates (Fitzpatrick, et al. 1992:98). Warmth, humidity, trauma and occlusion such as non-breathable footwear increase the susceptibility to infection (Prescott, et al. 1999:814). The infection can become chronic in people who are more susceptible such as patients who are immuno-suppressed or those who have Diabetes mellitus (al Hassan, et al. 2004: 1). The aim of this placebo-controlled double-blind study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a topical naturopathic complex comprising of Allium sativum mother tincture (Ø), Hydrastis canadensis (Ø), Apis mellifica (D3) and Urtica urens (D3) (in an aqueous cream base) in the treatment of Tinea pedis. The complex utilized in this study is regarded as naturopathic because the remedies comprising the complex were selected for the following reasons: •Allium sativum and Hydrastis canadensis, each utilized in mother tincture, were selected for their antifungal properties. •Apis mellifica and Urtica urens, each utilized in D3 potency were selected because their skin symptomotology most accurately matched the symptoms associated with “Athlete’s foot”.
The relative efficacy of homoeopathic Simillimum treatment as compared to psychological counseling (cognitive therapy and behavioral therapy) in the management of Generalized Anxiety Disorder
(2006) Ngobese, Jabulile Cresancia; Naude, David F.; Maharaj, Madhueshwaree
This double-blind placebo-controlled study investigated the relative efficacy of Homoeopathic similimum treatment as compared to psychological counselling (Cognitive therapy combined with Behavioural therapy), in the management of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD).
An evaluation of the triple-blind homoeopathic drug proving of an indigenous South African substance, Erythrina lysistemon 30CH, and the traditional uses of the crude substance
(2007) Olivier, Monique; Ross, Ashley Hilton Adrian
The aim of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic potential of an indigenous South African substance and the traditional uses of that crude substance. The substance under evaluation was Erythrina lysistemon which was prepared homoeopathically to the thirtieth centesimal (30CH) potency.
A prospective, epidemiological pilot study to investigate the level of knowledge of homoeopathy and its contextualization in health shops in the Gauteng area
(2006) Tatalias, Janet Anne; Korporaal, Charmaine Maria; Steele, Richard
Globally, complementary and alternative medicine is a rapidly expanding sector of which homeopathy and the sale of ‘over-the-counter’ homeopathic medicines is an integral part. In South Africa, the sale of homeopathic products in 2003 increased by 16.4% over figures for 2000. The sale of homeopathic medicines specifically, increased by 23% for the same period, and the sale of homeopathic medicines consists of 67% of all homeopathic products sold. The main method of distribution of these products is via retail outlets like health shops and pharmacies (Health Products Association, 2005). It is thus expected that health shop staff have a basic understanding of complementary therapies, including homeopathic medicines, due to the fact that these products are available ‘over-the-counter’ in health shops. To be effective health service providers, they are expected to understand the principles of homeopathy and its application via the available ‘over-the-counter’ homeopathic products. However, at best we can only assume the understanding that the health shop staff have. Thus, the level of understanding of homeopathy amongst health shop staff was examined through the use of a quantitative questionnaire.
A survey to determine the perception of the third year medical students at the University of Cape Town and the University of KwaZulu Natal towards homoeopathy
(2007) Thorvaldsen, Sara; Steele, Richard
The aim of this study was to shed light on the perceptions of third year medical students towards homoeopathy. Medical students represent the future health care professionals in our country, and their opinions about complementary health are very important. The data collected from the questionnaires provides valuable information towards increasing awareness and acceptance of homoeopathy amongst the medical fraternity.
The perceptions and awareness of homoeopathy and the Homoeopathic Day Clinic (H.D.C) amongst students at the Durban University of Technology (D.U.T.)
(2007) Macquet, Thomas
Tertiary education students are present and future health care consumers, and as such it is important that they are well educated in both mainstream and complementary health practices. Prior to this study, no data was available on the perceptions of tertiary education students towards homoeopathy in South Africa. The aim of this study was to bridge this gap in the database of knowledge by determining the perceptions and awareness that students at Durban University of Technology (D.U.T.) have towards homoeopathy and the Homoeopathic Day Clinic (H.D.C.) that exists on the D.U.T. campus.
A retrospective survey of perceptions and opinions of M.Tech: Homoeopathy graduates around the role and scope of homeopathic internship, in terms of the current legislation
(2007) Chella, Laura; Naude, David F.
The first formal Homeopathic education programme in South Africa began in 1989 and was instituted by Technikon Natal, now Durban University of Technology – DUT. The course offers a Master’s Degree in Technology in Homeopathy. Similarly Witwatersrand Technikon now University of Johannesburg began offering the course from 1993. Since the first (from DUT) intake there have been 13 years of graduates. Included in the course is excellent homeopathic training and a comprehensive medical training programme, consisting of anatomy, physiology, pathology, histology and diagnostics subjects. Although a statutory requirement no postgraduate internship training regarding graduates of this programme has been formalised. Thus this study was deemed valuable as it aimed to provide clarity on past internship received and a perception of what an internship ought to entail. The purpose of this retrospective survey was to determine the perceptions and opinions of M.Tech:Homeopathy graduates around the current non-implementation of statutory internship, in order to inform the formulation of an appropriate and effective homoeopathic internship, as required by Act 63 of 1982 (as amended). Other objectives included gathering data/perceptions regarding the contents and outcomes of a proposed Homeopathic internship as perceived by M.Tech:Homeopathy graduates. As well as assessing/determining the possible existence of associations between demographic factors and the perceptions around internship regarding its recommended contents and outcomes.
A survey of the perceptions and management of ADD/ADHD by homoeopathic practitioners in the Johannesburg metropolitan area
(2007) Nagle, Susan Margaret
The epidemic proportion of ADD/ADHD diagnosis is gaining widespread attention from parents, educators, doctors and other health care providers. Parents are seeking alternatives, as they are concerned about the use and side effects of methylphenidate hydrochloride (e.g. Ritalin®, Adaphen®, Concerta®) and other conventional drugs used to treat the symptoms of ADD/ADHD (Badat, 2004 and Picton, 2004). The aim of this research was to document the current practices of registered homoeopathic practitioners, with regard to Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). In addition, their perceptions regarding aeitiology, treatment, management and success rate was investigated. This research took the form of a qualitative-quantitative survey (questionnaire) targeting homoeopaths practicing in the Johannesburg Metropolitan Area
A group analysis evaluation of the class Insecta in terms of known materia medica
(2007) Vogel, Alta; Ross, Ashley Hilton Adrian
Group analysis of homoeopathic remedies is a relatively new methodology, linking naturally related substances via their common symptomatology. At its very basic level of understanding, it is an attempt to identify a mechanism for understanding groups of related remedies according to the natural classification of various sources used in homoeopathic practice (Scholten, 1993). This not only offers new aspects to well known remedies, but illuminates the smaller, less well known remedies, resulting in a more comprehensive and rounded understanding of the materia medica
A group analysis evaluation of the kingdom fungi of homoeopathic remedies in terms of known materia medica
(2007) Leisegang, Kristian; Ross, Ashley Hilton Adrian
Until recently the most important method of studying homoeopathic remedies has been to look at each remedy separately and not in the context of a particular group to which it belongs. Group analysis, as defined by pioneering authors such as Sankaran (2002) and Scholten (1993), is an attempt to identify a mechanism for understanding groups of related remedies according to natural classification of the various sources used in homoeopathic practice.
The relative efficacy of Advanced Brain Food and a homeopathic complex (Quietude) in the management of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in males between the ages of 8 and 13 years
(2006) Lottering, John-John Brian; Naude, David F.
The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of a Nutritional Supplement (Advanced Brain Food®) and a homoeopathic complex (Quietude®) in the management of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). ADHD is primarily a childhood disorder affecting ten to twenty percent of school going children. The three main presenting features of ADHD are inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. This triad often results in numerous adjustment difficulties for the child in the social and academic sectors (NIH Consensus Statement, 1998).
A survey to dertermine the perceptions that exist amongst pregnant adults towards the use of homoeopathy during pregnancy
(2006) Paruk, Fatima
This study sought to determine the perceptions that currently exist amongst pregnant women towards homoeopathy, in light of the fact that drug use during pregnancy is limited. This study aimed at identifying myths and misconceptions that currently exist towards homoeopathy by looking at the attitudes and perceptions held by this target group. This information can be used to develop future homoeopathic education initiatives for this target group.
An in vitro investigation of the effects of surface corrosion on the metal element content and tensile strength of orthodontic silver brazed stainless steel joints arising from varying exposure periods in Fusayama's artificial saliva
(2004) Vahed, Anisa
Globally in the field of Dental Technology, brazing continues to be the prevailing joining technique for removable orthodontic appliances. However, the strength of the brazed joint is a growing concern to dental technicians since the commonly employed silver solder brazing material undergoes changes in brazed joint composition (microstructure) thereby enhancing corrosion susceptibility. This ultimately influences the success of orthodontic appliances intra-orally. The objective of this in vitro investigation was therefore to determine the effects of corrosion on the composition and tensile strength of orthodontic silver brazed stainless steel joints after varying exposure periods in Fusayama’s artificial saliva.