Aandagtekort-hiperaktiwiteitsversteuring (ATHV) is een van die deeglikste nagevorste opvoedkundig-sielkundige versteurings. Dit is ook een van die versteurings waarvan die voorkoms drasties vermeerder het oor die laaste drie dekades, met ʼn voorkoms by skoolkinders van 3 tot 17%. Dit kom ook by volwassenes voor. Stimulantmedikasie word algemeen in die behandeling van ATHV voorgeskryf. Ander algemene behandelingsmodaliteite sluit onder andere gedragsterapie, dieët aanpassings en arbeidsterapie in. Oefening as hulpmiddel in die bestuur van ATHV, word goed in die literatuur beskryf, maar word ten spyte hiervan nie algemeen voorgeskryf in die behandeling van ATHV nie. Die primêre doel van die studie was om die rol wat die biokinetikus as oefenkundige te speel het in die bestuur van ATHV, te ondersoek. Die hipotese was dat ATHV-pasiënte wat deelneem aan ʼn oefenprogram onder leiding van ʼn biokinetikus, ʼn verbetering sal toon in akademiese prestasie en gedrag. Die verband tussen ATHV-simptome, aërobiese fiksheid, soepelheid, liggaamsamestelling en balans is ook ondersoek. Deur middel van ʼn meervuldige gevallestudieontwerp is die rol van die biokinetikus in dié verband ondersoek. ʼn Gemengde benadering, met kwantitatiewe sowel as kwalitatiewe elemente, is gebruik ten einde ʼn ryk en omvattende studie te kon doen. Riglyne vir die assessering van ATHV-pasiënte, asook beste oefenpraktyke, is uit die literatuur afgelei. Vyf deelnemers het vir ʼn tydperk van twee tot drie skoolkwartale aan die studie deelgeneem. Die intervensie het bestaan uit ʼn oefenprogram van ongeveer 30 minute per dag, vyf dae per week. Al die deelnemers is vooraf, asook tydens en na die studie getoets aan die hand van die volgende: Liggaamsamestelling, aërobiese fiksheid, soepelheid en balans. Onderhoude met onderwyseresse en ouers, skoolrapporte en vraelyste is verder gebruik om inligting in te samel. Deelnemers het ook narratiewe verslae gelewer oor die belewenis van hulle deelname. Die resultate van hierdie studie het die hipotese ondersteun. Die deelnemers het verbeterings ten opsigte van akademiese prestasie en gedrag getoon. Hulle aërobiese kapasiteit, liggaamsamestelling, soepelheid en balans het ook verbeter en die verband tussen die onderskeie parameters en die ATHVsimptome van elke deelnemer, is aangetoon en individueel bespreek. ʼn Gedeelde sorgooreenkomsmodel is ontwikkel om die rol van die biokinetikus duidelik aan te dui. ʼn Evaluasieprotokol vir gebruik deur biokinetici is ontwikkel en riglyne vir programontwerp vir die ATHV-pasiënt is saamgestel. Die gevolgtrekking van die studie is dat die biokinetikus ʼn besliste rol te speel het in die bestuur van ATHV. / Thesis (PhD)--University of Pretoria, 2013. / gm2014 / Biokinetics, Sport and Leisure Sciences / unrestricted

Physical inactivity, a modifiable risk factor for coronary heart disease (CHD) both in persons with intellectual disability (ID) and non-ID, is considered the fourth leading cause of death in the world. Long-term regular participation in physical activity is associated with a reduced risk for CHD. Literature currently lacks evidence on the effect of long-term physical activity on the functional capacity and risk factors for developing CHD in persons with ID. The purpose of this study was firstly, to determine the effect of a long-term physical activity intervention on the risk factors associated with developing CHD and secondly the effect of a combined aerobic and resistance physical activity intervention on the functional capacity of persons with ID. A cohort of seventy-four (74) participants living in a care facility in Potchefstroom, South Africa, participated in this study, a seven-year follow-up physical activity intervention study. To determine the effect of a seven-year combined aerobic and resistance exercise intervention programme, data was collected in 2006 and in 2013. At baseline (2006) and end (2013), a CHD risk profile was determined by means of a questionnaire and physical assessment. The physical assessment included resting blood pressure, peripheral glucose and cholesterol measurements, and body composition by means of body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and body fat percentage derived from skinfold measurements. Cardiorespiratory fitness was assessed by means of the adapted sub-maximal YMCA bicycle ergometer protocol from which a physical work capacity (PWC) was calculated. The participants followed a structured physical activity intervention two days per week for at least 45 minutes for a seven year period. The exercise intervention consists of cardiorespiratory exercises, muscle stretches and muscle endurance exercises. All data analyses were performed with SPSS 22.0 (IBM SPSS Statistics, Armonk, NY) statistical analysis software programme. The descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviations) as well as frequencies were calculated to describe the characteristics of the participants and the point prevalence of the CHD risk factors. General Linier Model analyses were applied to determine the significant changes in CHD risk factors measured from baseline to end with adjustment for baseline measurements. McNemar exact test indicated significant changes in the point prevalence of the CHD risk factors from baseline to end. The relationship between the changes in the cardiorespiratory fitness and the measured risk factors were performed with a partial correlation analysis adjusting for age in 2013. The level of significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. The results indicate that the prevalence of inactivity decreased with 50% after the seven-year intervention program. Prevalence of age as a risk factor for developing CHD increased significantly post-intervention from 10% to 18%. Body mass decreased significantly in men (1.25 ± 5.43 kg) and increased significantly in women (0.15 ± 6.83kg). BMI changes reflect changes in body mass of the participants. Body fat percentages increased both in men (2.98%) and in women (0.95%). A significant increase in systolic blood pressure (6.2 ± 10.1 mmHg) for men and diastolic blood pressure (6.35 ± 10.42 mmHg) for women was found. Physical work capacity in both male (1.90 ± 0.73 watt/kg) and female (1.55 ± 0.43 watt/kg) participants decreased to 1.43 ± 0.45 watt/kg and 1.14 ± 0.46 watt/kg respectively during the intervention period. Although a correlation between changes in PWC and the risk factors for CHD was found, none of the correlations was significant when adjusted for age in 2013. The conclusion drawn from this study is that a long-term physical activity intervention in a population with ID reduced the point prevalence for physical inactivity and overweight and obesity, in spite of a decrease in cardiorespiratory fitness. The changes in cardiorespiratory fitness did not relate to the changes observed in the risk factors of CHD. / MSc (Biokinetics), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2015

Physical inactivity, a modifiable risk factor for coronary heart disease (CHD) both in persons with intellectual disability (ID) and non-ID, is considered the fourth leading cause of death in the world. Long-term regular participation in physical activity is associated with a reduced risk for CHD. Literature currently lacks evidence on the effect of long-term physical activity on the functional capacity and risk factors for developing CHD in persons with ID. The purpose of this study was firstly, to determine the effect of a long-term physical activity intervention on the risk factors associated with developing CHD and secondly the effect of a combined aerobic and resistance physical activity intervention on the functional capacity of persons with ID. A cohort of seventy-four (74) participants living in a care facility in Potchefstroom, South Africa, participated in this study, a seven-year follow-up physical activity intervention study. To determine the effect of a seven-year combined aerobic and resistance exercise intervention programme, data was collected in 2006 and in 2013. At baseline (2006) and end (2013), a CHD risk profile was determined by means of a questionnaire and physical assessment. The physical assessment included resting blood pressure, peripheral glucose and cholesterol measurements, and body composition by means of body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and body fat percentage derived from skinfold measurements. Cardiorespiratory fitness was assessed by means of the adapted sub-maximal YMCA bicycle ergometer protocol from which a physical work capacity (PWC) was calculated. The participants followed a structured physical activity intervention two days per week for at least 45 minutes for a seven year period. The exercise intervention consists of cardiorespiratory exercises, muscle stretches and muscle endurance exercises. All data analyses were performed with SPSS 22.0 (IBM SPSS Statistics, Armonk, NY) statistical analysis software programme. The descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviations) as well as frequencies were calculated to describe the characteristics of the participants and the point prevalence of the CHD risk factors. General Linier Model analyses were applied to determine the significant changes in CHD risk factors measured from baseline to end with adjustment for baseline measurements. McNemar exact test indicated significant changes in the point prevalence of the CHD risk factors from baseline to end. The relationship between the changes in the cardiorespiratory fitness and the measured risk factors were performed with a partial correlation analysis adjusting for age in 2013. The level of significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. The results indicate that the prevalence of inactivity decreased with 50% after the seven-year intervention program. Prevalence of age as a risk factor for developing CHD increased significantly post-intervention from 10% to 18%. Body mass decreased significantly in men (1.25 ± 5.43 kg) and increased significantly in women (0.15 ± 6.83kg). BMI changes reflect changes in body mass of the participants. Body fat percentages increased both in men (2.98%) and in women (0.95%). A significant increase in systolic blood pressure (6.2 ± 10.1 mmHg) for men and diastolic blood pressure (6.35 ± 10.42 mmHg) for women was found. Physical work capacity in both male (1.90 ± 0.73 watt/kg) and female (1.55 ± 0.43 watt/kg) participants decreased to 1.43 ± 0.45 watt/kg and 1.14 ± 0.46 watt/kg respectively during the intervention period. Although a correlation between changes in PWC and the risk factors for CHD was found, none of the correlations was significant when adjusted for age in 2013. The conclusion drawn from this study is that a long-term physical activity intervention in a population with ID reduced the point prevalence for physical inactivity and overweight and obesity, in spite of a decrease in cardiorespiratory fitness. The changes in cardiorespiratory fitness did not relate to the changes observed in the risk factors of CHD. / MSc (Biokinetics), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2015

Mining contributes significantly to the economic development of South Africa, contributes to pollution and other negative environmental impacts. Section 24 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 (Constitution) places a duty on government to, amongst others adopt legislative measures to protect the environment, prevent pollution and degradation, and secure sustainable development, while promoting justifiable economic and social development. Government responded with the introduction of new acts or the amendment of existing acts most of which require an authorisation process as a “command and control” tool to enforce environmental governance within the mining sector. The abovementioned legislative development will be discussed from a historical perspective up to the current developments. The research aims to attempt to align the authorisation process pertaining to mining. The mining life cycle will be illustrated and the authorisation requirements for each of the mining life cycle processes will be discussed alongside its challenges such as fragmentation, lack of capacity in government sectors, lack of communication and cooperative governance within government. The lack of focus within the authorisation requirements will be deliberated. To avoid the negative consequences of the current authorisation processes such as duplication, unnecessary time delays and the stifling of economic growth, an investigation into how the various fragmented authorisation processes can be aligned into a single streamlined authorisation process which will contribute to the sustainable development within South Africa will be made. / MPhil (Environmental Law and Governance), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2013

Mining contributes significantly to the economic development of South Africa, contributes to pollution and other negative environmental impacts. Section 24 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 (Constitution) places a duty on government to, amongst others adopt legislative measures to protect the environment, prevent pollution and degradation, and secure sustainable development, while promoting justifiable economic and social development. Government responded with the introduction of new acts or the amendment of existing acts most of which require an authorisation process as a “command and control” tool to enforce environmental governance within the mining sector. The abovementioned legislative development will be discussed from a historical perspective up to the current developments. The research aims to attempt to align the authorisation process pertaining to mining. The mining life cycle will be illustrated and the authorisation requirements for each of the mining life cycle processes will be discussed alongside its challenges such as fragmentation, lack of capacity in government sectors, lack of communication and cooperative governance within government. The lack of focus within the authorisation requirements will be deliberated. To avoid the negative consequences of the current authorisation processes such as duplication, unnecessary time delays and the stifling of economic growth, an investigation into how the various fragmented authorisation processes can be aligned into a single streamlined authorisation process which will contribute to the sustainable development within South Africa will be made. / MPhil (Environmental Law and Governance), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2013

Rugby is a popular sport in South Africa, and has been played by young boys from as early as seven years old (South African Rugby Union [SARU], 2011). Despite various physical health benefits, it carries a high risk for injury, especially head injury, and consequently has a high incidence of concussion (Alexander, 2009; Laubscher, 2006; Shuttleworth-Edwards, Smith & Radloff, 2008). It is common for 12 to 13 per cent of adolescent rugby players to report mild traumatic brain injury or concussion per season (Laubscher, 2006; Shuttleworth-Edwards et al., 2008). The true incidence is however considered to be higher, even as high as 70.4% (Shuttleworth-Edwards et al., 2008). Concussion, otherwise known as mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is described as a traumatically induced alteration in mental status, or traumatically induced cerebral dysfunction (Kraus, McArthur, Silvermand & Jayaraman, 1996) which may, or may not involve loss of consciousness (Quality Standards Subcommittee, American Academy of Neurology [AAN], 1997). The nature of concussion has traditionally been considered to be transient, and symptoms are usually resolved within a few days or weeks (Kirkwood et al., 2008; Taylor et al., 2010). However, when concussions are not fully resolved prior to players returning to the game, they may be vulnerable to second impact syndrome. This syndrome causes herniation and brain oedema, which may result in death (Patel, 2005), as has been reported in South African press (Alexander, 2009; South African Press Association [SAPA], 2012). Even without second impact syndrome, repeated concussions may render the brain neurocognitively vulnerable, leading to an array of short- and long-term cognitive symptoms (Alexander, 2009; Shuttleworth-Edwards et al., 2008). Short-term problems include difficulties with attention, focus and concentration; following multi-step instruction, engaging in mental problem-solving; verbal expression, receiving and processing verbal and visual information; maintaining effective levels of mental and physical energy; controlling mood; suppressing impulsive behaviours; initiating and maintaining productive interpersonal relationships with peers; engaging in meaningful conversation and participating in group activities (Jantz & Coulter, 2007). Short-term cognitive impairments due to repeated concussion have also been found, and include amongst the former symptoms, also problems with delayed memory, learning, social functioning, and abstract thinking (Anderson, Brown, Newitt & Hoile, 2011; Laubscher, 2006). Long-term sequelae follow when children did not return to their baseline level of functioning after three months (Kirkwood et al., 2008; Taylor et al., 2010). Long-term sequelae include problems with memory, visuo-motor processing, executive functioning, learning and abstract thinking (Anderson, 2002; Anderson et al., 2010; Horton et al., 2010; Lezak et.al., 2004; Shuttleworth-Edwards & Radloff, 2008). As mTBI is traditionally thought to be of transient nature, researchers tend to investigate moderate to severe TBI, rather than mTBI (Alexander, 2009; Anderson et al., 2010; Patel, 2005). This could easily lead to important facts about mTBI being missed or not acknowledged. Nevertheless, recent investigations are uncovering facts about mTBI that could transform the way in which we understand mTBI, providing increasing evidence that mTBI is more serious than widely believed (Blakemore, 2012; Maxwell, 2011; Toleda et al., 2012). However, there remains a lack of research investigating mTBI from a single cause. Considering the above information, the current study provides unique information about mTBI. It specifically investigated the long-term effects of mTBI on adolescents from a homogenous cause, which makes results more comparable. The importance of this study is highlighted in the face of evidence for the long-term effects of multiple concussions, that were sustained during school rugby, on academic achievement (Alexander, 2009; Laubscher, 2006).In the light of grey areas in existing research, the aim of this current study was to investigate whether there is a significant difference in academic achievement within and between two groups of adolescents that had either played rugby and sustained multiple concussions, or had not played rugby nor sustained any concussions, when measured at four points in time over six years. A retrospective data-analysis was performed on matched, controlled, prospective longitudinal data, which was obtained from a study that evaluated the impact of repeated mTBI on the cognitive and academic functioning of early adolescent rugby players over time (Alexander, 2009). This study elaborates on a subset of the previous data, adding the gr. 12 results for academic aggregate scores, to the previously reported academic dataset. Participants were selected from Alexander‟s study (2009), and had either played rugby and obtained two or more concussions (Rugby/Concussed (RC- group); n=17), or did not play rugby nor sustained any concussions (Non-rugby/Non-concussed (NRC-group); n=13). Academic aggregate scores from baseline (gr. 7) through gr. 12 were analysed using quantitative statistical measures. A normal probability plot determined that the data was distributed normally. Descriptive statistics were reported, where after repeated measures ANOVA‟s were conducted to determine the statistical significance of differences in academic scores between and within the groups over time. These results indicated that the NRC-group displayed statistically significant increase in academic achievement over time (p = .000), whereas the RC-group did not display any significant differences, despite displaying a downwards trend in achievement. The difference between the two groups was measured at its highest in gr. 12 (p = .003), indicating that the NRC-group performed statistically significantly better than the RC-group over time. However, a Pearson‟s correlation test revealed that the estimated IQ (Vocabulary subscale of the WISC-III) (Wechsler, 1991) had a positive correlation on academic achievement [r(34) = .54, p < .05)]. To control for the effect that this correlation had on the academic results, an ANCOVA was conducted. This analysis indicated a statistically significant difference in academic achievement between the two groups in gr.12 (p = .004), with a large effect size (d = 1.41), implicating practical significance. Findings consequently confirmed our hypothesis. The significant increase in academic achievement observed within the NRC-group over time, is consistent with what could be expected if the brain is allowed to develop normally without disruption such as mTBI (Blakemore, 2012; Horton et al., 2010). The finding that the RC group did not display statistically significant intra-group differences in academic achievement when measured over time, but that academic achievement followed a downward trend, is difficult to substantiate in the literature. The few research studies on the effect of cumulative concussion on young athletes do not isolate academic achievement as a variable (Iverson et al., 2004; Shuttleworth-Edwards et al., 2008). Further research into intra-group differences in this specific area of enquiry and population group is therefore necessary. Normal cognitive and brain development, maintains that the brain develops in a posterior to anterior direction, and the prefrontal regions which are vulnerable to concussion, develop last (Anderson, 2010; Blakemore, 2012; Lezak, 2004). Whereas the primary motor and sensory areas and areas for receptive and expressive language are fully developed by the age of ten years, the prefrontal brain areas that are responsible for more complex and abstract thought repertoires only start maturing in early adolescence and this development continues up to the age of 24 and even into the early 30s (Toleda et al., 2012). Injury to the developing brain at this critical stage of maturation may adversely affect the development of cognitive skills, preventing the child from acquiring the effective cognitive strategies needed for normal academic functioning and adequate academic achievement after TBI (Horton et al., 2010). However, if there is no insult to the brain, cognitive functions are expected to develop normally as a result of synaptic pruning and increased white-matter volume in the prefrontal cortex (Blakemore, 2012), making it likely that the maturation of these abilities will lead to greater cognitive and academic ability (Blakemore & Choudhury, 2006), such as seen for the NRC-group in this study. Limitations for this study include a small sample size and the testing of only one variable. It is therefore recommended that future studies include more variables, and aim at creating a larger, randomized sample size, possibly providing a more representative pool of participants to study this phenomenon in South African context. It is also advised that future studies consider using neuropsychological measures to test cognitive functioning. As previous studies have indicated specific impairment in executive functioning after TBI, it may be worth researching the effect of concussion on executive functioning more thoroughly (Anderson, 2002; Anderson et al., 2010; Horton et al., 2010). Further it may be valuable to consider using functional MRI studies to broaden existing knowledge about the interaction between pathophysiology and cognitive functioning This study also highly recommends that schools and rugby clubs catering for child and adolescent players reconsider the importance of implementing proper return to play protocols after players obtain concussions. / Thesis (MA (Clinical Psychology))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2013

Rugby is a popular sport in South Africa, and has been played by young boys from as early as seven years old (South African Rugby Union [SARU], 2011). Despite various physical health benefits, it carries a high risk for injury, especially head injury, and consequently has a high incidence of concussion (Alexander, 2009; Laubscher, 2006; Shuttleworth-Edwards, Smith & Radloff, 2008). It is common for 12 to 13 per cent of adolescent rugby players to report mild traumatic brain injury or concussion per season (Laubscher, 2006; Shuttleworth-Edwards et al., 2008). The true incidence is however considered to be higher, even as high as 70.4% (Shuttleworth-Edwards et al., 2008). Concussion, otherwise known as mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is described as a traumatically induced alteration in mental status, or traumatically induced cerebral dysfunction (Kraus, McArthur, Silvermand & Jayaraman, 1996) which may, or may not involve loss of consciousness (Quality Standards Subcommittee, American Academy of Neurology [AAN], 1997). The nature of concussion has traditionally been considered to be transient, and symptoms are usually resolved within a few days or weeks (Kirkwood et al., 2008; Taylor et al., 2010). However, when concussions are not fully resolved prior to players returning to the game, they may be vulnerable to second impact syndrome. This syndrome causes herniation and brain oedema, which may result in death (Patel, 2005), as has been reported in South African press (Alexander, 2009; South African Press Association [SAPA], 2012). Even without second impact syndrome, repeated concussions may render the brain neurocognitively vulnerable, leading to an array of short- and long-term cognitive symptoms (Alexander, 2009; Shuttleworth-Edwards et al., 2008). Short-term problems include difficulties with attention, focus and concentration; following multi-step instruction, engaging in mental problem-solving; verbal expression, receiving and processing verbal and visual information; maintaining effective levels of mental and physical energy; controlling mood; suppressing impulsive behaviours; initiating and maintaining productive interpersonal relationships with peers; engaging in meaningful conversation and participating in group activities (Jantz & Coulter, 2007). Short-term cognitive impairments due to repeated concussion have also been found, and include amongst the former symptoms, also problems with delayed memory, learning, social functioning, and abstract thinking (Anderson, Brown, Newitt & Hoile, 2011; Laubscher, 2006). Long-term sequelae follow when children did not return to their baseline level of functioning after three months (Kirkwood et al., 2008; Taylor et al., 2010). Long-term sequelae include problems with memory, visuo-motor processing, executive functioning, learning and abstract thinking (Anderson, 2002; Anderson et al., 2010; Horton et al., 2010; Lezak et.al., 2004; Shuttleworth-Edwards & Radloff, 2008). As mTBI is traditionally thought to be of transient nature, researchers tend to investigate moderate to severe TBI, rather than mTBI (Alexander, 2009; Anderson et al., 2010; Patel, 2005). This could easily lead to important facts about mTBI being missed or not acknowledged. Nevertheless, recent investigations are uncovering facts about mTBI that could transform the way in which we understand mTBI, providing increasing evidence that mTBI is more serious than widely believed (Blakemore, 2012; Maxwell, 2011; Toleda et al., 2012). However, there remains a lack of research investigating mTBI from a single cause. Considering the above information, the current study provides unique information about mTBI. It specifically investigated the long-term effects of mTBI on adolescents from a homogenous cause, which makes results more comparable. The importance of this study is highlighted in the face of evidence for the long-term effects of multiple concussions, that were sustained during school rugby, on academic achievement (Alexander, 2009; Laubscher, 2006).In the light of grey areas in existing research, the aim of this current study was to investigate whether there is a significant difference in academic achievement within and between two groups of adolescents that had either played rugby and sustained multiple concussions, or had not played rugby nor sustained any concussions, when measured at four points in time over six years. A retrospective data-analysis was performed on matched, controlled, prospective longitudinal data, which was obtained from a study that evaluated the impact of repeated mTBI on the cognitive and academic functioning of early adolescent rugby players over time (Alexander, 2009). This study elaborates on a subset of the previous data, adding the gr. 12 results for academic aggregate scores, to the previously reported academic dataset. Participants were selected from Alexander‟s study (2009), and had either played rugby and obtained two or more concussions (Rugby/Concussed (RC- group); n=17), or did not play rugby nor sustained any concussions (Non-rugby/Non-concussed (NRC-group); n=13). Academic aggregate scores from baseline (gr. 7) through gr. 12 were analysed using quantitative statistical measures. A normal probability plot determined that the data was distributed normally. Descriptive statistics were reported, where after repeated measures ANOVA‟s were conducted to determine the statistical significance of differences in academic scores between and within the groups over time. These results indicated that the NRC-group displayed statistically significant increase in academic achievement over time (p = .000), whereas the RC-group did not display any significant differences, despite displaying a downwards trend in achievement. The difference between the two groups was measured at its highest in gr. 12 (p = .003), indicating that the NRC-group performed statistically significantly better than the RC-group over time. However, a Pearson‟s correlation test revealed that the estimated IQ (Vocabulary subscale of the WISC-III) (Wechsler, 1991) had a positive correlation on academic achievement [r(34) = .54, p < .05)]. To control for the effect that this correlation had on the academic results, an ANCOVA was conducted. This analysis indicated a statistically significant difference in academic achievement between the two groups in gr.12 (p = .004), with a large effect size (d = 1.41), implicating practical significance. Findings consequently confirmed our hypothesis. The significant increase in academic achievement observed within the NRC-group over time, is consistent with what could be expected if the brain is allowed to develop normally without disruption such as mTBI (Blakemore, 2012; Horton et al., 2010). The finding that the RC group did not display statistically significant intra-group differences in academic achievement when measured over time, but that academic achievement followed a downward trend, is difficult to substantiate in the literature. The few research studies on the effect of cumulative concussion on young athletes do not isolate academic achievement as a variable (Iverson et al., 2004; Shuttleworth-Edwards et al., 2008). Further research into intra-group differences in this specific area of enquiry and population group is therefore necessary. Normal cognitive and brain development, maintains that the brain develops in a posterior to anterior direction, and the prefrontal regions which are vulnerable to concussion, develop last (Anderson, 2010; Blakemore, 2012; Lezak, 2004). Whereas the primary motor and sensory areas and areas for receptive and expressive language are fully developed by the age of ten years, the prefrontal brain areas that are responsible for more complex and abstract thought repertoires only start maturing in early adolescence and this development continues up to the age of 24 and even into the early 30s (Toleda et al., 2012). Injury to the developing brain at this critical stage of maturation may adversely affect the development of cognitive skills, preventing the child from acquiring the effective cognitive strategies needed for normal academic functioning and adequate academic achievement after TBI (Horton et al., 2010). However, if there is no insult to the brain, cognitive functions are expected to develop normally as a result of synaptic pruning and increased white-matter volume in the prefrontal cortex (Blakemore, 2012), making it likely that the maturation of these abilities will lead to greater cognitive and academic ability (Blakemore & Choudhury, 2006), such as seen for the NRC-group in this study. Limitations for this study include a small sample size and the testing of only one variable. It is therefore recommended that future studies include more variables, and aim at creating a larger, randomized sample size, possibly providing a more representative pool of participants to study this phenomenon in South African context. It is also advised that future studies consider using neuropsychological measures to test cognitive functioning. As previous studies have indicated specific impairment in executive functioning after TBI, it may be worth researching the effect of concussion on executive functioning more thoroughly (Anderson, 2002; Anderson et al., 2010; Horton et al., 2010). Further it may be valuable to consider using functional MRI studies to broaden existing knowledge about the interaction between pathophysiology and cognitive functioning This study also highly recommends that schools and rugby clubs catering for child and adolescent players reconsider the importance of implementing proper return to play protocols after players obtain concussions. / Thesis (MA (Clinical Psychology))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2013

This dissertation presents a pumping system operation efficiency improvement solution that includes optimal selection and control of the water pump. This solution is formulated based on the performance, operation, equipment and technology (POET) framework. The focus is on the minimization of the operational energy cost. This efficiency improvement solution is divided into three stages in accordance with the operation category of the POET framework. The first stage is to select the optimal pump capacity by considering both energy efficiency and load shifting requirements. The second stage is to develop a flexible pump controlling strategy that combines and balances the contributions from energy efficiency and load shifting. The last stage is to improve the robustness of the control system using the closed-loop model predictive control approach. An optimal pump capacity selection model is formulated. In this model, additional capacity requirements for load shifting are considered along with the traditional energy efficiency requirements. By balancing the contributions from load shifting and energy efficiency, the operational energy cost can be reduced by up to 37%. An optimal pump control is formulated. The objective of this control model is to balance the energy efficiency and load shifting contributions during the operation and minimize the operational energy cost. This control model is tested under different operational conditions and it is compared to other existing control strategies. The simulation and comparison results show that the proposed control strategy achieves the lowest operational energy cost in comparison to other strategies. This optimal pump control model is further modified into the closed-loop model predictive control format to increase the robustness of the control system under operation uncertainties. A mixed integer particle swarm optimization algorithms is employed to solve the optimization problems in this research. AFRIKAANS : Hierdie verhandeling bied ’n verbeterde oplossing vir die operasionele doeltreffendheid van pompstelsels wat die optimale keuse en beheer van die waterpomp insluit. Hierdie oplossing is geformuleer op ’n raamwerk wat werkverrigting, bedryf, toerusting en tegnologie in ag neem. Die oplossing fokus op die vermindering van bedryfsenergie koste. Hierdie oplossing is onderverdeel in drie fases soos bepaal deur die bedryfskategorie gegrond op die bogenoemde raamwerk: Die eerste fase is die keuse van die optimale pompkapasiteit deur beide energiedoeltreffendheid en lasverskuiwing in ag te neem. Die tweede fase is om ’n buigbare pompbeheer strategie te ontwikkel wat ’n goeie balans handhaaf tussen die onderskeie bydraes van energiedoeltreffendheid en lasverskuiwing. Die derde fase is om die stabiliteit van die beheerstelsel te verbeter deur gebruik te maak van ’n geslote-lus beheermodel met voorspellende beheer (Predictive Control). ’n Model vir die keuse van optimale pompkapasiteit is geformuleer. In hierdie model word vereistes vir addisionele pompkapasiteit vir lasverskuiwing sowel as vereistes in terme tradisionele energiedoeltreffendheid in ag geneem. Deur die regte verhouding tussen die onderskeie bydraes van energiedoeltreffendheid en lasverskuiwing te vind kan ’n besparing van tot 37% op die energiekoste verkry word. Optimale pompbeheer is geformuleer. Die doel van die beheermodel is om die bydraes van energiedoeltreffendheid en lasverskuiwing te balanseer en om die bedryfsenergie koste te minimiseer. Hierdie beheermodel is getoets onder verskillende bedryfstoestande en dit is vergelyk met ander bestaande beheerstrategiee. Die simulasie en vergelyking van resultate toon dat die voorgestelde beheerstrategie die laagste bedryfsenergie koste behaal in vergelyking met ander strategiee. Hierdie optimale pomp beheermodel is verder aangepas in ’n geslote beheermodel met voorspellende beheerformaat om die stabiliteit van die beheerstelsel te verbeter onder onsekere bedryfstoestande. ’n Gemende heelgetal partikel swerm optimisasie (Mixed interger particle swarm optimization) algoritme is gebruik om die optimiseringsprobleme op te los tydens hierdie navorsingsoefening. / Dissertation (MEng)--University of Pretoria, 2011. / Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering / Unrestricted

Modern life, which is characterised by automation and mechanisation, causes laziness and inactivity in people all over the world. It in essence deprives one of movement, which negatively affects man and his body. Chronic illnesses caused by an inactive lifestyle lead to unnecessary deaths, which again impacts negatively on the community as a whole. The South African Police Service (SAPS) has far from escaped this worldwide phenomenon. It is, in fact, experiencing an abnormally high death rate, which can be linked directly to police officers’ lifestyle. This study has proven that the average police officer is in extremely poor physical condition, and that this is in all probability the cause of the unusually high natural death rate as well as the high incidence of suicide among SAPS members. The primary objective of this study is the justification of a physical maintenance programme for law enforcement officers. For this programme to be successful, it has to: (i) be relatively inexpensive and provide easily accessible facilities; (ii) be in line with critical physical job requirements; (iii) contribute directly to the maintenance of job-oriented fitness; (iv) include a section that is solely tasked with the physical maintenance of the officers; and (v) form part of the SAPS’s policy on sport. The results of this study show the dire necessity of the immediate implementation by SAPS management of the suggested physical maintenance programme. / Thesis (DPhil (Human Movement Science))--University of Pretoria, 2003. / Biokinetics, Sport and Leisure Sciences / unrestricted

The aim of this study is to conduct a thorough theoretical study on mobile learning (mlearning) in order to achieve the primary objective of the study which is to develop a general framework to implement and manage mobile technologies in a higher education environment. The focus of the literature study was to research the state of mobile technologies and their relevance to teaching and learning. The literature study investigate the implications of mobile technologies for students, lecturers and thus for the institution and provided an overview of frameworks found in literature with the emphasis on the management of m–learning within the higher education institution. M–learning is part of a new mobile conception of society, with the mobility of the technologies impacting on the mobility of the students, the lecturers and ultimately on the mobility of higher education. Literature suggests that, while m–learning is proving to be innovative, the factors that most strongly impact on the ultimate success or failure of mlearning will depend on human factors, the balancing of technological ideals and pedagogical imperatives, and the successful management of the interface between human educational systems and technology systems. The proposed general framework focuses on addressing key issues related to m–learning from the perspective of the student, the lecturer and thus the institution. In order to remain competitive higher education needs to be diligent in maintaining the complex technology infrastructure that supports a thriving mobile culture that will meet and exceed the expectations of both lecturers and students. The empirical research conducted had as objectives to investigate the mobile technology assets of respondents with regard to the hardware and the software that they own, the mobile technology actions of respondents in regard to what they do with the mobile technology that they own and to investigate the respondent's attitude towards mobile technologies. A survey was designed and distributed to a sampling of the academic staff and students of the North–West University (NWU) in South Africa, specifically the Potchefstroom Campus. There is ample proof from the empirical study that there is a gap with regard to the level of accessibility, usage, and attitude with regards to the different interest groups in the higher education environment. Higher education institutions should invest in investigating these gaps further and in leveraging off the benefits of the effective management of these technologies to improve teaching and learning. The final chapter concludes with a summary of the secondary objectives researched in the literature (Chapter two) and empirical research (Chapter three) chapters in order to support recommendations towards the primary objective of this study. The rapid pace of adoption and advancement of mobile technologies creates opportunities for new and innovative services provided through such mobile devices. Higher education finds itself in the early innings of the mobile Internet pulling both lecturers and students towards the same place: smaller, faster, cheaper devices working together in a web of connectivity. Recommendations were made in this final chapter on how higher education institutions can leverage the benefits of the effective management of mobile technologies to improve teaching and learning. M–learning has the potential to increase the capacity of higher education through improving efficiency and productivity of teaching and learning. Mlearning could address challenges related to quality of teaching such as continuous professional training, lifelong upgrading, connecting with academics worldwide and communicating effectively with students. Higher education is discovering the potential of mlearning to promote student engagement and improving the quality of learning. Management of higher education institutions and systems, management of policymaking including storage and analysis of data, construction and assessment of policy scenarios, and tracer studies or academic tracking systems can be improved through the use of m–learning. Mobile technologies will continue to increasingly become an integral part of students' and lecturers' private and day to day lives and m–learning will be integral in educational content delivery. Additional research is required to study the effective and optimal implementation of m–learning. A better understanding of the benefits and leverage thereof is required and additional research should provide answers to these questions. / Thesis (M.B.A.)--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2012.