SS Trending Science Issue Special Edition 2015/2016

SCIENCESTARS Special Edition | December 2015/January 2016

THE TIMELESS POWER OF SCIENCE

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Science Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

Science Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

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CONTENTS CONTENTS

FEATURES

8

THE POWER OF NUMBERS

1 1 2 3 3 3

2

REDEFINING ENGINEERING

9

DST AND WRC LAUNCH MOBILE APP

5

DIABETES AND ITS EFFECTS

0

FACEBOOK PAGES

2

OUTER SPACE AND ITS PERKS

8

THE SCIENCE BEHIND MENSTRUATION

REGULARS

6 3 3 3 3 3

editor's note

1

BURSARIES

3 QUIZ

4

PUZZLE

5

ANSWERS

7

TOP 10

FOREWORD

the

FOREWORD A reflection of 2015 I read somewhere that; “A calm sea does not make a skilled sailor”.

This year I have come to believe that saying. The year 2015 has been a very busy academic year for most, I included. This year I have had to juggle Physical Sciences, Life Science, Mathematics and Accounting as my majors. I must say for a learner in grade 10 up until grade 12, to be able to manage that much requires a lot of courage and dedication.

I am currently a grade 10 learner and confident that I will be in grade 11 in 2016. High school comes with a lot of challenges but it is important that one never forgets where they are coming from and where they are going, because if you do, then it means you do not have any goals. One of the biggest challenges you come across in high school is being able to choose the right subjects and sticking with them throughout.

It is a well known fact that a lot of young people are not venturing into the Maths and Science fields, even Minister Naledi Pandor has taken up the initiative to launch programmes that will encourage and excite young people to venture into these fields. Issues like that need to be taken seriously. Another of the

room for improvement” and I plan to take those words into 2016.

many things that needs to be addressed is the issue of the severe

I also hope that my school, St John’s College does even better

drought that has hit our country so badly, a lot needs to be done

next year, I know this school produces the best results and wish

and that is why we are needed.

everyone best of luck for the year 2016.

Thank you.

Science was trending better than I had imagined in 2015 and hope it will trend in 2016 too. Next year I plan to give my studies my undivided attention, as my mother always says “there is always

Hlonela Qekeleshe Grade 10 at St Johns College Mthatha

Science Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

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ED’S NOTE

team Science Stars

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Managing Editor • Evans Manyonga editor@sciencestars.co.za

2015 in Perspective

Graphic Designer • Cinzia-Joey Swartz

It seems like yesterday when we were celebrating the new year.

Today as I write this, the end of the year is close. The Science Stars team has been hard at work all year. From attending the Science Festival earlier in the year to the valuable endless science expos and events across the country, we can certainly say it has been a productive year.

In terms of Scifest we are looking forward to the 2016 edition.

The 20th edition of South Africa’s National Science Festival, will take place in Grahamstown, Eastern Cape from 2-8 March, and the theme will be “A matter of time”, exploring the creation, measurement, depiction, experience and end of time.

In 2015 we covered a number of topics. Among these were Health and medical science, Women in Science, Nanotechnology, Mathematics and our Scifest/Bloodhound issue. We explored a lot of concepts and learnt a few lessons.

Out of the many aspects in science in South Africa, one personally stood out for me. This is because it will help a lot of people and more importantly that aspect puts SA on the world map while ensuring the country gave the world a medical breakthrough.

The Health and Medical Science sector in SA has been growing in leaps and bounds. SA has been traditionally strong in making advances in this sector. Figures like Dr Christian Bernard put SA on the map through their world changing work.

In March 2015 South African scientists announced the world’s first successful penis transplant, helping a 21-year-old who suffered an amputation following a botched traditional circumcision three years ago. Professor Andre van der Merwe, head of Stellenbosch University’s Division of Urology, announced details of the “ground-breaking” operation at Tygerberg Hospital in Bellville, Cape Town.

The nine-hour operation involved the attachment of a penis taken from a donor who had died. The recipient of the donor organ made a full recovery and is now fully functional. This was a world first and certainly put SA on the world map once again.

Our final issue looks at trending science in 2015. We look at some of the famous aspects Science Stars Magazine covered and some emerging trends we just couldn’t ignore. Enjoy it, critique it and above all learn something from it.

Evans Nyasha Manyonga Managing Editor 6

Science Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

Project Manager • Renata Williams Contributing writers • Oswald Kucherera

• Mzimasi Gcukumana

• Zama Mthethwa Chairman • Madambi Rambuda Public Relations • Sihle Qekeleshe

Ambassador • Prof. Azwindinni Muronga Subscriptions • info@sciencestars.co.za Copyright 2016 Roswika Media. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or any means, electronically or mechanically, without prior permission.

Science Stars is published by Roswika Media

10th Floor, The Pinnacle 2 Burg Street Cape Town, 8000 021 839 2507 info@sciencestars.com www.sciencestars.co.za

FROM CLASSROOM TO BOARDROOM A DECADE OF EMPOWERMENT From building schools to supporting black entrepreneurs, from making university study possible for disadvantaged students to providing work experience for young work seekers, Shanduka Foundation strives to develop South Africa’s human potential. Over the last decade, Shanduka Foundation has created opportunities for educational development, career growth and entrepreneurial advancement.

•

Adopt-a-School Foundation mobilises companies and individuals to adopt disadvantaged schools with the aim of improving the academic, infrastructural, social and security environment in schools.

•

Shanduka Black Umbrellas nurtures qualifying 100% black-owned businesses by providing meaningful access to markets, networks and finance through its small enterprise incubators and online enterprise and supplier development portal.

•

The Cyril Ramaphosa Education Trust provides bursaries to disadvantaged students and organises vacation work in companies in the Shanduka Group.

•

The Shanduka internship programme provides experiential training for selected learners and job seekers within Shanduka Group and across its partner network.

Thanks to the ongoing support of many partners in business, government and civil society, Shanduka Foundation is making a significant impact in the lives of young South Africans.

To find out more about the work of the foundation and its programmes, visit

www.shanduka.co.za/shanduka-foundation

COVER STORY

THE POWER OF NUMBERS Mathematics in Practice

D

o you love numbers and keeping informed, before taking the next step? If yes, we have compiled some information that may appeal to you as a student. This information shows a compilation of the

number of students enrolled in South African universities in 2015, the number of universities in South Africa, the number of students who wrote matric exams this year and youth issues.

Number of Universities Comprehensive Universities

Traditional Universities Universities of Technology

Number of Matriculants in 2015 KwaZulu-Natal 171 714

Youth issues

R25 million

Gauteng 112 128

1

Limpopo 102 633

amount disbursed by the National Youth Development Agency to youth-owned micro enterprises in the last

Eastern Cape 93 115

financial year nationally.

765

Western Cape 56 576

2

Mpumalanga 56 104

youth-owned micro enterprises that received funding from the National Youth Development Agency in the last financial year

Free State 35 389

North West 33 841

3

nationally.

2,7 billion value of fund for young people supported by the National Youth Development Agency in partnership

Northern Cape 12 732

8

with the Industrial Development Corporation and the Small Enterprise Finance Agency.

Science Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

COVER STORY

Number of Students Currently enrolled in Universities this year Stellenbosch University - 30 150 students University of Cape Town – 26 357 students University of Limpopo – 23 384 students Walter Sisulu University - 23 946 students University of the Western Cape - 5 512 students University of Mpumalanga - 140 students Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University – 26 510 students Vaal University of Technology – 19 904 students Cape Peninsula University of Technology – 32 000 students Central University of Technology – 13 543 students Durban University of Technology – 23 000 students North West University – 57 679 students Rhodes University – 6000 students Tshwane University of Technology – 50 000 students University of Free State – 30 000 students University of Fort Hare – 12 000 students University of Johannesburg – 111 200 students University of KwaZulu-Natal – 42 000 students University of South Africa – 90 000 students University of Pretoria – 63 000 students University of the Witwatersrand – 31 148 students University of Venda – 12 000 students University of Zululand – 13 000 students

Science Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

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THE YEAR OF LIGHT

THE INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF LIGHT A brief reflection

Written by: Oswald Kucherera

D

id you know that with many house-

Senegalese-born American musician and

holds without electricity in Africa,

entrepreneur, Akon, famously known for his

over 1.5 million students do not

song ‘Lonely’ among other hits announced

have access to clean energy to use as light

his mega-solar energy project which will

for their studies? As a result they resort

ensure that finally many households will

to using unclean energy resources, which

have clean energy in their homes. He

cause diseases such as pneumonia, bronchi- addressed delegates at the recent COP21 tis and various forms of cancer.

United Nations Climate Change in Paris about the Akon Lighting project which pro-

It is because of this and many equally

vides electricity in 15 African countries.

important reasons why the United Nations General Assembly 68th session declared

In South Africa many science events were

2015; “The International Year of Light

held across the length and breadth with

and Light-based Technologies”(IYL 2015),

the support of the Department of Science

with the chief aim of creating a sustain-

and Technology (DST).

able African Optics and Photonics society.

This initiative seeks to create a platform

The Scifest is held each and every year

in which several scientific bodies includ-

in Grahmstown to create a platform to

ing UNESCO gather together with many

provide students with information on sci-

stakeholders who include academic, indus-

ence related issues as well as to instill

trial and private sector partners to engage

an interest in students to study Science,

meaningfully and come up with light-based

Technology, Engineering and Mathematics

technologies to solve problems plaguing

(STEM) subjects. Top achievers in science

the societies across the whole continent.

subjects received awards in recognition of their achievements, with Grahmstown stu-

An example is the development of artifi-

dents scooping away several awards. These

cial light to aid the growth of food crops

awards also served to encourage other stu-

such as potatoes. The Agricultural Research

dents to do well in their studies.

Council (ARC) in South Africa has employed this to maintain food production levels

All in all the concrete foundation has been

to meet the demand of the ever increas-

laid which will lead to the realisation of the

ing population and challenges caused by

overall goal of creating sustainable devel-

climate change currently hampering food

opment societies through light and light-

productivity in the country. Recently the

based technology solutions.

10

Science Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

DST

REDEFINING ENGINEERING South African engineers benefit from the DSTHitachi Scholarship Programme

By Zama Mthethwa

T

he DST and Hitachi Ltd (a Japanese

memoranda of understanding that make

a long-standing relationship and that he

multinational corporation) bid fare-

provision for South African engineers to

would like to see it going to the next level.

well to five young South African

participate in a three-month scholarship

engineers who were this year’s recipients

programme in Japan. From 2009 to 2011

He explained that the Department had

of the DST-Hitachi Scholarship Programme

the programme focused on electrical engi-

been working successfully in a number of

at a ceremony held at Villa Sterne Boutique

neering; from 2012 to 2014 it focused on

other areas of human capital development

Hotel in Waterkloof Ridge, Pretoria, on 18

gas/steam turbine engineering. This year

with Japanese institutions, and that the

September.

until 2017, it will be focusing on water and

DST-Hitachi partnership was very impor-

sanitation treatment and services.

tant. “The DST-Hitachi partnership is one of

The engineers left on a three-month train-

the public-private partnerships that enjoys

ing programme aimed at enhancing the

Citing the 13 years of cordial relations

huge support from the Japanese Embassy,

capacity of South African engineers.

between South Africa and Japan, the

Hitachi and ourselves have been really

Director-General, Dr Phil Mjwara, expressed

pleased with the results over the years.”

Since the programme’s inception in 2009,

his appreciation for the Department’s part-

the DST and Hitachi have signed three

nership with Hitachi, saying that it was

12

Science Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

So far, the partnership has benefited 20

DST

Town Municipality, hoped that it was going to be an amazing experience and that she would gain a lot of knowledge and also learn about Japanese culture.

Presantha Maduray, Senior Process Technologist at Umgeni Water, was hopeful that she would come back and help address the problems that the country was experiencing, such as the severe drought.

The Japanese Ambassador to South Africa, Shigeyuki Hiroki, expressed his appreciation for the successful bilateral cooperation in science and technology between the two countries. He said that Japan was one of the engineers, including the five selected this

Nkosinathi Buthelezi, Research and

leading science and technology countries

year.

Development Team Leader in the Water

and that the recipients will benefit greatly

and Sanitation branch of eThekwini

from the opportunity.

The engineers, who recently returned on 20

Municipality, said he was ecstatic about the

November, will be training at Hitachi facto-

opportunity because, as young engineers,

Expressing his gratitude to the Japanese

ries and visiting Japanese water utilities.

they needed to gain more knowledge. “I

embassy and the DG, Mr Keisuke Fujioka,

hope to come back and implement all the

General Manager of Hitachi Europe Ltd, said

They are David Drummond, Nkosinathi

good lessons. However, I look forward to

that the DST-Hitachi programme was one

Buthelezi, Zabathwa Mzamane, Jessica

learning more of Japanese culture as well.”

of Hitachi’s best models for human capital development and he believed that it would

Dunstan and Presantha Maduray from Umgeni Water and the eThekwini and Cape

Zabathwa Mzamane, a civil engineering

Town municipalities.

technician – also from Water and Sanitation

continue for many years.

in eThekwini Municipality – said she was

The DG urged the recipients to be repre-

David Drummond, a professional engi-

looking forward to the programme. She

sentatives of not only their organisations,

neering technologist from eThekwini

said that she had already identified some

but also of South Africa. “We expect you to

Municipality, thanked the Japanese govern-

projects that would need the knowledge

make us proud of you as South Africans,

ment and the DST for the opportunity, say-

and skills that she would acquire during the but also hope that you will come back with

ing he was humbled and honoured to be

programme to address the challenges in

knowledge of how to address the prob-

a recipient of the scholarship. “I will gain

the country’s water and sanitation sector.

lems that we have in the area of water and sanitation. We are excited for you and look

knowledge and will come back to share the knowledge and improve the lives of all

Jessica Dunstan, an engineer in the Water

forward to you coming back to assist the

South Africans.”

and Sanitation section of the City of Cape

country with what you will have learnt.”

Science Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

13

EL NINO

SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST The dry, the drought and El Nino

R

ecently South Africa experienced

also felt the devastating effects. Almost 10

because the country’s climate is likely to

one of its driest spells. The dry spell

000 cattle have died in the country as a

change.

placed a strain on water supplies

result.

Global warming and El Nino

across the country, affecting almost 2.7 million households. As a result the country

The worst hit provinces were Northwest,

Nine out of 10 of the warmest tempera-

declared five of its nine provinces drought

Kwa-Zulu Natal and Mpumalanga. In these

tures globally were recorded in the last 10

disaster zones for agriculture.

provinces, the majority of the rain falls

years. Some scientists argue that there is a

between October and March, but with El

direct link between global warming and El

Recently Senzeni Zokwana, the Minister of

Nino going strong the chances of decent

Nino.

Agriculture announced that the average

rainfall are vey slim.

maize yield was at its lowest since 2008.

“We can say with confidence that global

This will unfortunately push up prices as

In November scientists discussed the

warming is contributing significantly to

there will be a low supply.

impacts of the El Niño at a summit in

increasing temperatures,” explained Dr

Pretoria.

Francois Engelbrecht of the CSIR.

what is known as an El Nino event. El Nino

“We know from past experiences that El

“The world is already one degree celsius

is the natural warming of the surface tem-

Niño, half of the time, leads to droughts.

higher than the pre-industrialisation aver-

peratures of the Pacific Ocean, which occurs I think there is a serious chance that this

age between 1850-1900. We are half-way

almost every two to seven years.

drought will be seriously compounded by

towards exceeding the critical two degree

This dramatic change in the ocean tem-

the lack of rain for this month,” said Dr

celsius threshold of the United Nations

perature ultimately has an effect on the

Mathieu Rouault of the University of Cape

Framework Convention on Climate Change

weather around the world.

Town.

which is two degrees. Only really strong

South Africa often suffers a drought during

climate change mitigation can prevent us Today in South Africa we are experienc-

Speaking at the same summit Professor

from reaching a critical threshold of above

ing one of the strongest El Nino event’s

Coleen Vogel from the University of the

two degrees,” said Engelbrecht.

recorded and it’s still getting stronger.

Witwatersrand explained that the current

Neighbouring countries like Swaziland have drought shouldn’t be hyped up too much 14

Science Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

“There is a consensus about the super El

EL NINO

Ninos like the one we’re currently expe-

son. The growing season will also get

launched a campaign to encourage resi-

riencing and the one in 1997/98 – the

shorter because soil won’t be as moist,” he

dents to remove alien and invasive species

frequency may well increase under climate

explained.

from their properties as some invasive

change and are likely to double towards the end of the century,” he added.

plants could increase the spread of wild Destruction of fynbos biodiversity

fires.

Due to shorter winters and increased fire How will El Nino affect SA?

seasons, South Africa’s rich fynbos biodi-

The group of scientists also explained that

Two adverse effects of warmer tempera-

versity (the natural shrubland or heathland

greater planning is needed to lessen the

tures on South Africa due to global warm-

vegetation) will be adversely affected.

impact of the drought.

ing or El Nino are the following:

The current El Niño weather event is In October 2015 the City of Cape Town

expected to last until late summer 2016.

Maize crops and food security South Africa’s maize crops are highly vulnerable to warmer temperatures and as it stands the low rainfall has already forced some farmers to plant smaller crops.

Engelbrecht says this is partly due to the soil moisture content, which is affected by the drought.

“Soil moisture is the result of a balance between rainfall and evaporation,” he said.

Climate models in all the different scenarios are predicting drier soils.

“Soil will be drier for one to two months longer in Southern Africa which will likely increase the length of the fire seaScience Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

15

3581/E

Empowering women for roads.

SANRAL is committed to creating a path of growth and development for women in engineering and in business to ensure long-term sustainability of critical skills in our economy and our country.

We salute all those female trailblazers and achievers who dared to join us on the road less travelled.

CSIR

A CSIR MODEL TO CONTRIBUTE TOWARDS IMPROVED SHIP PARKING AND CONTAINER STACKING CHALLENGES

C

ongestion at South African ports as a

such as electricity and water,” she explains.

developed a conceptual model concern-

result of longer lead times of stow-

As a transport and industrial engineer she

ing transport for small-scale farmers,” she

age and berthing is the major cause

also looks at the logistics of how the farm-

says. “In addition to the model, I am also

of low productivity which in turn stifles

ers transport raw material to their farms,

designing a refrigeration system for them.

trade, says Zanele Mpanza, a CSIR engineer

how they transport their products to mar-

Vegetables have a very short life span if left

and mathematician.

kets and what markets are available for

unrefrigerated.” This, she says, is in-line with

them.

our [CSIR] mandate as an organisation - to

Zanele is developing a mathematical

improve the lives of all South Africans.

model to improve port operations focus-

Zanele says these farmers do not have the

“The research that I’m doing is fulfilling

ing on berthing, stowage and congestion.

appropriate equipment and facilities to

and the farmers are really excited,” she says.

“The whole point is to minimise loading

transport their goods. They currently use

and unloading times and making sure that

small bakkies, which cannot travel in bad

Zanele studied industrial engineering at

resources are allocated accordingly and

weather or road conditions.

the University of Johannesburg and gradu-

the port runs efficiently,” says the emerging researcher.

ated with a Master’s degree in 2013. She’s Instead of them travelling from their

currently pursuing her PhD at the same

respective locations to the markets, Zanele

university.

The model is also geared towards improv-

suggests that government provides capital

By Mzimasi Gcukumana

ing container stacking in order to reduce

subsidy or design collection points such

retrieval times.

as agriparks. “Instead of the farmers going to various locations in the areas they are

“I am using differential and integral equa-

in, they can offload their produce at an

tions techniques which have been used but

agripark or collection point where it will be

to a limited extent. Most people tend to use sold for them,” she says. computer simulations which are inadequate for my PhD project requirements,” she says.

Such agriparks would need to be designed in a manner that is compatible with logis-

When mathematics meets agriprocessing

tics requirements. If they combine transport,

In addition to her ports congestion

it will reduce their costs.

research, Zanele is assisting South Africa’s small scale farmers as well. “These farmers

The aim, she says, is to also investigate the

are mainly located in rural areas across the

possibility of upscaling the model to other

country which makes it difficult for them to

provinces.

access the markets and they also don’t have access to communication, and lack basics

Zanele Mpanza

“Also using mathematical modelling, I have Science Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

17

It’s what we build

3112

We all dream of a better future. For ourselves, our families and our country.

SANRAL, as part of the National Development Plan, is improving and expanding vital road infrastructure.

In the process we are creating jobs, transferring skills and developing opportunities for all South Africans.

We are proud to be a part of the National Development Plan, because we know that roads are more than just roads, they pave the way to a better future.

More than just roads

DST

Monitoring river health

W

ater quality is a major concern in South Africa and is affected directly by the actions of people and their activities along rivers.

Awareness and information about water quality in rivers is an important part of improving that quality, and the Department of Science and

DST

AND WRC

LAUNCH MOBILE

APP

Technology (DST) and the Water Research Commission (WRC) have partnered to support the development of a mobile app called miniSASS that helps to monitor water quality.

The easy-to-use tool, developed jointly with m-Lab (a mobile solutions laboratory and startup accelerator), enables ordinary people and communities to assess the health of streams and rivers, learning about and contributing to the science of water monitoring.

Launched in Johannesburg on 18 September, the application allows users (many of whom are school children), to locate the nearest stream or river quickly, and see what the current river health is.

The user collects a sample of macro-invertebrates and other small river creatures from the water, and the creatures found give the user a measure of the general river health and water quality of the particular river.

The app also shows the user whether the stream has existing river monitoring sites.

The miniSASS monitoring system is linked to a Google Earth system, and the Google Earth map allows users to see, at a glance, how healthy the streams and rivers around the country are. The observations that users provide will be used to fill out the map.

Speaking at the launch, Chief Director; Sector Innovation and Green Economy, Mr Isaac Maredi explained that the Department was exploring the potential of mobile technologies to improve the life of ordinary people and to support service delivery in several areas.

The first version of the application can be downloaded from http://minisass.mobi or www.minisass. org using any android device with Internet connection (e.g. tablets and cellphones).

Science Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

19

NUTRITIONAL FACTS

NUTRITIONAL FACTS What you put on your plate

1 2

Eggs raise cholesterol HDL, which stands for High Density Lipoprotein; this is the “good� cholesterol.

Some healthy spices like cardamom, coriander and cloves are known to be used in flavour drinks.

3 4

Brown sugar is not more nutritional than white sugar. There are no significant nutritional differences between the two.

There are 27 calories in one thin slice of bacon.

5 6

A tomato has more health benefits than most popular fruits, e.g. an apple.

7 8 9

To reduce the amount of calories in your cheese, you can grate your cheese over your dishes.

Cucumber is a fruit, and if left uninterrupted it continues to grow in size and its skin becomes tougher and yellow.

Orange juice has a wide range of health benefits, it boosts the immune system, reduces signs of aging, protects against cancer, improves blood pressure and many more.

Toasted bread is good for people with diabetes, it lowers the glycaemic index.

22

10 Science Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

Sausage is very low in sugar, but high in sodium and saturated fat.

DST

FINDING PRACTICAL, ACTIONABLE SOLUTIONS

F

Young SA researchers participate in global forum at MIT in the USA

our young South African PhD students this week jetted off to the United States to attend the inaugural ‘Solve

Initiative event’ at one of the world’s most prestigious technology institutions, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Organised by MIT, this global project provides a platform for technologists, philanthropists, business leaders, researchers and students to find practical, actionable solutions to problems in areas where technology, business innovation, and smart policy have the potential to be used to bring about lasting change. sen to attend the event after a competi-

Manqele has a master’s in Electrical

The Department of Science and Technology

tive call for proposals issued by the DST.

Engineering, a BSc (Hons) in Computer

(DST) has joined the initiative for a one-

The four researchers are Thuli Khanyile,

Science and is pursuing a PhD at the

year trial period.

Kgabo Ramoroka, Vezekile Zungu and

University of Cape Town.

Lindelweyizizwe Manqele.

The four-day inaugural event will consider

The four are accompanied by the

specific high-impact challenges in four

Khanyile is pursuing her doctoral stud-

Department’s Deputy Director-General for

fundamental areas. These focus on (i) how

ies specialising in molecular medicine

Socio-economic Innovation Partnerships, Mr

to provide quality education to all people,

and haematology at the University of the

Imraan Patel. Speaking ahead of the meet-

anywhere in the world, who wish to learn;

Witwatersrand. Her research interests are

ing, Mr Patel said the four Solve Initiative

(ii) how to make current health-care sys-

HIV/Aids, vaccine development, drug deliv-

themes were closely aligned with DST pri-

tems more productive, and to accelerate the ery systems, diagnostics and biophotonics.

ority areas, which include collecting knowl-

development of innovative diagnostics and

edge, evidence and learning to inform and

therapies that will substantially improve

Ramoroka is a PhD research intern at the

influence the use of science and technology

health outcomes at sustainable cost; (iii)

Human Sciences Research Council. His pub-

to achieve inclusive development. He said

how to generate, transmit and store energy

lication record includes research reports,

that the inaugural event would be used to

from cleaner sources, like solar and wind

and short publications and briefing notes in

assess how the South African national sys-

energy, and foster innovative approaches

policy-oriented magazines.

tem of innovation could secure maximum

to nuclear energy; and (iv) how to address

long-term benefit through membership of

diverse yet related issues regarding basic

Zungu is an organic chemist by training and

the Solve Initiative towards mobilising the

infrastructure, economics and the future of

is currently pursuing a PhD in Chemical

power of science and technology to help

work, as well as new foundations for inno-

Engineering at the University of KwaZulu-

build a just, poverty-free world.

vation in the digital economy.

Natal. Her expertise ranges from organic synthesis to pulp and paper research. She is

For more information, contact Veronica

In line with the four themes, four South

also interested in bio-refinery technologies

Mohapeloa at 082 882 3818 or veronica.

African researchers under 35 were cho-

and bio-fuels research.

mohapeloa@dst.gov.za.

Science Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

23

DIABETES

Diabetes and its effects Changing your lifestyle Written Sihle Qekeleshe

D

iabetes is a very complex disease

Type 1 diabetes:

that affects everyone, your friend

This type of diabetes is also known as the

or relative may have it or you may

insulin is there but not working properly.

‘Juvenile diabetes’ because it is usually

Symptoms of type 2 diabetes:

have it, either way you are affected by it.

diagnosed in children and young adults.

• Hydration urinating more often than

Knowing what diabetes is and what its

This happens when the immune system

usual, particularly at night

effects are will help you look after yourself

destroys cells in the pancreas called beta

• Fatigue

and others.

cells. Beta cells are the ones that make

• Cuts or wounds that heal slowly

insulin.

• Blurred vision

Sources define insulin as a, “hormone pro-

• Unexplained weight loss

duced by the pancreas that allows glucose

Type 1 diabetes symptoms are:

• Itching around the penis or vagina, or fre-

to enter the body’s cells” the insulin is used

• Hydration

quent episodes of thrush

to fuel energy so that we are able to do our

• Mood changes

daily activities. If our bodies do not pro-

• Frequent urination

Complications of diabetes include:

duce enough or any insulin, we may have

• Increased appetite

pregnancy complications, heart and vessel

diabetes.

• Weight loss

disease, foot damage, eye damage, kidney

• Bedwetting in children who previously

damage, nerve damage, skin and mouth

Diabetes is when insulin production is

didn’t wet the bed during the night

damage.

insufficient, or the body’s cells do not

• Fatigue and weakness

respond properly to insulin, or both. This

• Blurred vision

To prevent having diabetes one needs

happens because the pancreas doesn’t

• Vaginal yeast infection, in females

to exercise regularly, get plenty of fibre,

produce enough insulin to help glucose

always opt for whole grain food. It’s also

enter the body’s cells or there is insulin

Type 2 diabetes:

important to reduce your sugar and alco-

resistance.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form

hol intake. If you have all or most of these

of diabetes. Having type 2 diabetes means

symptoms, visit the doctor for check-ups. If

the body does not use insulin properly. In a

diagnosed ask your doctor about the side

nutshell, there is not enough insulin or the

effects diabetes medication has.

There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes.

Science Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

25

DST

WOMEN EMPOWERED Young women scientists urged to stay the course

“post-docs” to spend time in South Africa to further their research careers and to assist with undergraduate training, especially in critical areas in which we lack capacity. The Minister said the recent launch of the SARChI 42 initiative (42 new female research Professors) has altered the gender imbalance in the prestigious research professor’s programme. “Nearly half of our 200 research professors are now women,” said Minister Pandor.

While the country has put several measures in place to ensure local gender equity, it is playing a similar role in southern Africa and Minister Naledi Pandor

on the continent.

South Africa has been at the forefront of

Y

oung women scientists have been

Conference, Minister Naledi Pandor said

the formation of a SADC Women in Science,

urged to make use of the numerous

the Department continues to prioritise the

Engineering and Technology (SADC WISET)

international research and train-

development of women.

Regional Charter, having served as a mem-

ing opportunities made possible by the

ber of a working group comprising Angola,

Department of Science and Technology

“We are expanding our international train-

Mozambique, Namibia and Zimbabwe.

(DST).

ing opportunities programme for South

The Charter was recently tabled at a

African students, especially for PhD candi-

joint sitting of SADC Ministers of Science

Investing in the development of women

dates. For example, over the past year, my

and Technology and Ministers of Higher

scientists and researchers has become a

department secured opportunities for more

Education meeting in Maputo, Mozambique,

top priority for the department. Despite

than 1 500 South African researchers and

in June 2014. The ministers commended the

numerous interventions to bring about

students to participate in various interna-

work that has been done by SADC member

gender parity in the scientific community,

tional training and exchange programmes.

states to address issues of gender inequal-

women remain on the margins. However,

We are also working to attract a large num-

ity in the region.

South African policy is to invest in the skills ber of young international researchers who and talents of young people – especially

have recently completed their PhDs and

The African Union (AU) is also focusing

girls and young women.

who are looking for a postdoctoral project

more and more on women in science. At

to the country,” said Minister Pandor.

the 2007 AU Summit, heads of AU member

Addressing young women scientists attending the fifth ASSAf Annual Young Scientists

26

states passed a resolution that called for She added that the goal would be for these

Science Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

an increase in women’s participation in sci-

DST

ence, technology and innovation. A number

Science, Technology and Innovation has

continent.

of programmes have since been initiated

been signed, and the Minister urged the

“South Africa’s voice in the international

in various African countries to address the

young women scientists to take up oppor-

governance of science, technology and

challenges faced by women and girls in

tunities in BRICS countries that have arisen

innovation matters. South Africa has worked

their science systems. Despite these efforts,

from the signing of the MoU.

actively to ensure that the vital contribu-

there are gender gaps and challenges that

tion of science, technology and innovation

hamper the access of women to education-

The Minister also called on the participants

to eradicate poverty and reinforce inter-

al and professional opportunities.

in the ASSAf conference to ensure that their

national solidarity was recognised in the

work is relevant and contributes to address-

United Nations’ formulation and adoption

The first BRICS Memorandum of

ing the numerous challenges of poverty

of the new Sustainable Development Goals,”

Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation in

and disease facing the country and the

explained Minister Pandor.

Science Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

27

BLOODHOUND SSC

THE BLOODHOUND SUPERSONIC CAR (SSC)

Faster than the speed of light Written by: Oswald Kucherera

S

o my elder brother is a huge fan of

the greatest invention of our generation,

nary ideas to add into the dough of devel-

Formula 1 car racing and sometimes

the fact that it stood out at Scifest Africa

opment that with time will bring positive

I join him on the couch to watch the

2015 is enough proof for me to say that.

change to better human lives.

Formula 1 races.

It is powered by three engines, the Rolls Royce EJ200 Jet engine, NAMMO hybrid

In his latest December diary updates on the

I must say it is really an exhilarating

rocket and Jaguar V8 engine. It produces

Bloodhound project, Andy Green, the driver,

experience and for a long time I bore the

more than 135 000 horse power, six fold

currently employed as Wing Commander

thought that the Formula 1 cars hold the

the power of all Formula 1 cars on the

in the Royal Air Force, responded to some

world record speed of the fastest car but

starting grid put together. It was launched

of the most frequently asked questions, as

that view was to change after learning

at the Science Museum in London on 23

well as providing clarification on the choic-

about the groundbreaking project of the

October 2008 and the Department of

es made for instance of using three engines,

Bloodhound Supersonic Car (SSC) which is

Science and Technology (DST) fully sup-

stating the reason that the ultimate goal

said to be even faster than the bullet.

ports it.

is to supersede the speed of the jet or the rocket.

I was left with no words except to marvel

The Bloodhound project is a good ingredi-

He also maintained that the project seeks

at what great minds can achieve when they

ent in the basic recipe geared to inspire a

to inspire new engineers rather than devel-

receive full support. I think it is not much

young generation of Scientists, Engineers

oping new technologies because they are

to say that the Bloodhound is one of, if not

and Mathematicians to think beyond ordi-

expensive.

28

Science Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

SCIENCE STARS BUILDING LEGENDS

Science Stars is supported by: • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

The Department of Science and Technology CSIR University of Stellenbosch UCT SANRAL Shanduka Foundation Old mutual NSFAS UJ Engen Scifest Africa Shanduka black umbrellas SAASTA TCTA

Science Stars is distributed to all 9 South African provinces by ELTINSEF.

021 839 2507 info@sciencestars.co.za www.sciencestars.co.za /sciencestars.faceb.co.za @ScienceStars2

FACEBOOK PAGES

FACEBOOK PAGES Science Stars has copiled a list of Facebook science related pages we think you should like in 2016. Check them out and see what you can learn:

International Facebook pages to like; • Wired • PhysOrg • Bill Nye

South African pages to like;

• Physics Today

30

• APS Physics

• Science Stars Magazine

• Astronomy

• Ithemba Lab

• NASA

• Natural Research Foundation

• Discovery Health

• Scifest Africa

• Scientific News

• MathAfrica

• ScienceNow

• Council of geoscience

• Science News Magazine

• Cape Town Science Centre

• Seed Magazine

• Department of Science and Technology

• Astronomy magazine

• Saasta

• New scientist

• CSIR

• Popular science

• National zoological gardens of South Africa

Science Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

FEATURE BURSARIES

SCIENCE BURSARIES An investment in your future

W

ondering where and how to get

tion.

Engen

funding for your studies? Look

http://www.sasolbursaries.com/ or call 086

Engen awards bursaries to top students for

no further, we have information

010 6235

a variety of BSc and Bcom degrees. Take the first step in obtaining a successful aca-

on how to get science bursaries. Here are

demic career with Engen.

some bursaries you can look into; you can

Eskom

get more bursary information on the link at

Eskom awards bursaries to external appli-

the end.

cants and sees this as a major contribution

For more information visit the Engen

towards broadening the national skills pool. Bursary Department at: Council for Scientific and Industrial

Eskom believes that this initiative will lead

(engengraduate@fempower.co.za).http://

Research (CSIR)

to empowered communities.

sastudy.co.za/article/13816-2/ or call +27 (21) 403 4911

CSIR’s bursary programme is open to both undergraduate and postgraduate levels

For more information:

within the SET fields.

http://web.eskom.co.za/student/type%20

Anglo American Bursaries

of%20bursaries.html or 011 800 6510

Anglo American offers all kinds of opportunities. They offer training and financial

For more information email: bursaryprogramme@csir.co.za or visit the link: http://

Transnet Bursaries

support for students and graduates all over

bursaries-southafrica.co.za/csir-bursaries/

Transnet offers the bursaries in South

the world.

Africa. The Transnet Bursary Programme is SANSA 2016 HCD Bursary Programme

available at different Transnet sections for

For more information visit:

The South African National Space Agency

candidates who are looking for valuable

http://www.angloamerican.com/careers/

(SANSA) is a public entity under the

training and student financing schemes.

graduates-scholarships-and-bursaries

National Department of Science and Technology (DST). SANSA also offers bur-

For more information visit http://freerecruit. Power Group Bursary

saries to students. The bursary programme

co.za/transnet-student-bursaries-2016/ or

Power Group is a construction company

caters for students interested in studying in

call 086 571 63 75

that offers bursaries to students who are currently studying towards building related

a space related field.

South African Breweries (SAB) Bursaries

courses at universities and universities of

Information on the organisation can be

SAB provides bursaries to help stabilise the

technology. Power Group also offers SETA

found at grants@sansa.org.za http://www.

economy of the workforce in South Africa.

accredited learnerships to young people.

sansa.org.za/bursaries

SAB expects its bursary candidates to maintain high standards of learning.

For more information visit: www.powergrp.co.za/apply-vacation.php

Sasol

For more information and other science

The bursary scheme is an all-inclusive

For enquiries:

package; the bursary aims to attract

http://bursaries-southafrica.co.za/sab-bursa- bursaries visit

remarkable young talent to the organisa-

ries/ or call 011 – 881 8111.

http://www.bursaries2016.co.za/

Science Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

31

THE INTERNET

OUTER SPACE AND ITS PERKS Astronauts using the internet

W

Written by: Sihle Qekeleshe

e all know that outer space has

they can use for operational tasks and but

visits a website, the request travels for

its perks, but having internet

also video calls with friends and family,

approximately 22000 miles to a network of

connection has to be one of the

back on the ground.

geosynchronous satellites and then a signal

best! The sad part about it is that the connection is not super-fast, but we are still

is sent down to a receiver and then the Internet connection in space is built around

request is processed.

astonished by knowing astronauts can actu- a network of tracking and data relay satelally post things on social media, all thanks

lites. It is said that NASA had undergone

to The National Aeronautics and Space

this process to help improve the quality of

Though the connection may be slow astro-

Administration (NASA).

life in space and for the astronauts to feel

naut, Scott Kelly has been able to post his

less isolated while in space.

experience while in space on Twitter and

Astronauts first got internet connection

Instagram. Scott Kelly has been in space

three years ago, but it is said to be as slow

The reason the connection is so slow is

longer than any other US astronaut before

as a dial-up. As slow as the connection may

because data has to travel a long distance,

him. He has been in space for more than

be, astronaut Scott Kelly and his colleagues

yes you may have thought that it would be

388 days and counting. To see more of his

are able to send emails from space as well

faster because they are in space and that is

updates you can visit his Twitter page @

as post pictures on Twitter and Instagram.

where the solar panels are, but that is not

StationCDRKelly and his Instagram page, @

The astronauts also have tablets, which

the case. This is because when an astronaut

stationcdrkelly.

QUIZ

QUIZ How well will you do with this Science quiz?

Take our quiz and find out….

6

1

How old is Earth?

Which gas is filled in a packet of patato chips?

A. 5.5 Million Years

A. Nitrogen

B. 12.6 Billion Years

B. Oxygen

C. 2 Billion Years

C. Air

D. 4.54 Billion Years

D. Carbon Dioxide

2

Out of the 4 fundamental forces of nature, which is the most obvious but also the weakest?

7

Which scientist discovered neutron A. James Chadwick

A. Electromagnetic

B. John Dalton

B. Gravity

C. Rutherford

C. Strong Nuclear

D. JJ. Thomson

D. Weak Nuclear

8

Air is….

3

Chris Hughes is related to …

A. Element

A. Google

B. Mixture

B. Twitter

C. Compound

C. Facebook

D. None of the above

D. Yahoo

9

Everything is made up of…

4

Name of first calculating device…

A. Gravity

A. Tape

B. Force

B. Calculator

C. Light

C. Scale

D. Atoms

D. Abbacus

5

mon…

10

Which of these have the lowest frequency?

Darwins Theory of evolution means we all share a com-

A. Visible Light B. Microwave

A. Theory

C. X-rays

B. Cause

D. Infra-Red

C. Ancestors D. Belief

Science Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

33

PUZZLE

SUDOKU

Just how good are your maths skills?

Test your skills against our Sudoku puzzle 3

6

8 8 4

1

7

2

3

1

5 7

1 2

6

7

2

4

9 6

5

2 1

1

8

1 8

5

4

7

WORDSEARCH Everything science

34

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DROUGHT

SCIENCE

RIVER

LIGHT

DISCOVERIES

ASTRONAUT

INTERNET

SPACE

WOMEN

ENGINEER

HEALTH

CLIMATE

DIABETES

Science Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

ANSWERS

ANSWERS

Women In Science Issue

SUDOKU

SCIENCESTARS Special Edition | October/November 2015

WOMEN TRANSFORMING SCIENCE

2 4

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CROSSWORD PUZZLE

QUIZ 1. 2003 2. Science for a sustainable future

1

3. Life Science, Humanities and

C 2

H

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1

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4.Millennium Development

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researchers

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6

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Science Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

35

SCIENCE NEWS

SCIENCE NEWS The country’s persistent heat wave of maximum temperatures of close to 40 degrees Celsius has caused an enormous amount of harm in food production. The South African Medical Association (SAMA) says South Africa is likely to experience water related diseases.

The death of Nola, the northern white rhino at the San Diego Zoo on Sunday made international headlines. Nola was one of only four northern white rhinos left on Earth.

Jill Farrant, a professor of Molecular and Cell biology at the University of Cape Town, is leading a global research into developing crops that resemble the extraordinary survival skills of “resurrection plants”.

Air Zimbabwe flight between the national capital of Harare and Victoria Falls made air travel history by being the first ever flight in Zimbabwe to have an all-female flight deck crew. The plane was piloted by Captains Chipo M. Matimba and Elizabeth S. Petros.

After 20 years of collecting fossils, researchers finally have enough fossils to put together a complete picture of a 14-tonne creature from the sauropoda group of dinosaurs, characterised by their small head, long neck, long tail and elephant-like gait.

The Minister of Science and Technology, Naledi Pandor, inaugurated into office the Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Institutional Landscape Panel. It has been appointed to review the South African STI landscape.

TOP 10

A YEAR OF GROUNDBREAKING DISCOVERIES

Top 10 discoveries in 2015

The year of 2015 has been filled with a lot of groundbreaking discoveries in South Africa and in other countries around the world. We have ten of the best discoveries that were made this year.

1

2

Meet Homo Naledi, discovered in 2013, described in

According to new calculations by scientists in Spain and the

September 2015 by a team of scientists and researchers,

UK, at least two as-yet undiscovered planets as big as Earth

led by Wits University professor Lee Berger. Homo Naledi is

or bigger may be hiding in the borders of the solar system.

named after the chamber in which it was discovered, deep

3

in the Rising Star caves.

A team of scientists led by Kim Lewis from Northeastern University have identified a new antibiotic called Teixobactin, which kills some kinds of bacteria by preventing them from building their outer coats. Teixobactin is resistant to resistance.

5 A team made up of teachers and eight students from the University of Technology and Engineering (UTEC) developed a low-cost LED lamp that is powered by plants and soil. The

4

According to scientists as of September 2015, there is water flowing on Mars. This is evident due to dark streaks that appeared on the surface of the Red Planet. Although flowing water has always been a possibility due to the visibility of the dark streaks.

6

Four young stars clustered in the constellation Norma have been discovered and the stars are 300,000 light-years

plant lamp operates through energy stored in soil.

distant. This constellation was discovered by astronomer

7

Southern Observatory’s VISTA.

Alec Falkenham, a Ph.D student in Nova Scotia has discovered a cream that will help you remove a tattoo safely and easily without any pain. The product is still in its early stages and may be in the market in the next years.

9

A type of stainless steel mesh that repels oil from its surface has been discovered. The Ohio State University scientists explained that other liquids like water can pass through the mesh easily, but oil cannot pass through.

Sukanya Chakrabarti and her colleagues at the European

8 Engineers at the University of California have discovered a type of super charger which can chare your mobile device in a few seconds.

10 For years now doctors have been trying to find ways to treat HIV and have not really made a breakthrough, this year researchers have developed a new drug that would effectively vaccinate people against the virus.

MENSTRUATION

THE SCIENCE BEHIND MENSTRUATION How and why the cycle starts Written by: Sihle Qekeleshe

U

ntil now not everyone knows how

builds up again in preparation for a fer-

and why females get their period,

tilised egg. On the 14th day of the cycle,

some may just know the difference

an egg is released from a follicle (a small

between the sanitary towels and about the

secretory cavity, sac, or gland) in the ovaries,

symptoms. Here is what really happens

this phase is called the ovulation phase. If

inside a female’s body.

the egg is fertilised and attaches itself to the lining of the uterus and the lining is

A ‘period’ is the monthly shedding of blood

maintained, the female falls pregnant. Now

and tissue from the uterus, through the

this happens when a female engages in

opening of the vagina, preparing for preg-

unprotected sexual intercourse during and

nancy. This may sound scary but it is an

after the phase, because a female is most

important part of the reproductive pro-

vulnerable to pregnancy during the ovula-

cess and shows that one is maturing and

tion phase. If the egg does not attach itself

healthy, remember a process takes time.

then the lining breaks and the cycle repeats

A female’s menstrual cycle starts at the

itself.

tender age of 12 years up to 50 years, on

ache and backache, mood swings, appetite changes or food cravings etc. These symp-

average. The menstrual cycle usually lasts

The menstrual cycle is controlled by two

for approximately 28 days. On the first

hormones; oestrogen and progesterone.

day of the cycle, which is the first day of a

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is what

Did you know that women in space are ana-

female’s period and this usually lasts for 3

females usually go through a week before

tomically and biologically well suited for

to 7 days a month.

their period. There are both physical and

space travel? Just in case you were wonder-

emotional symptoms such as: acne, feel-

ing, you can read more on an article shared

ing tired, swollen or tender breasts, head-

on our Facebook page.

After the period, the lining of the uterus

38

Science Stars Magazine Trending Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

toms vary on each person.

Cut out and place on your wall for easy reference

DRAFTFCB CAPE TOWN 10003863CT/E

Draw up a study timetable.

FCB CAPE TOWN 10007095CT/E

Study tips

Don’t procrastinate!

Make flashcards, use acronyms, sing jingles - anything to help you remember.

Exercise and eat correctly to combat stress.

Use tables, flowcharts and figures - pictures can help you remember facts.

Get up a little earlier on the morning of an exam - it will allow you time to have a proper breakfast and you will feel calm when you arrive at your exam venue.

Create a study environment free from clutter and distractions.

If the workload is too big, join a study group. But make sure you actually study.

Get a decent night’s sleep. It helps with your concentration.

Go over as many past papers as you can.

Don’t postpone difficult topics when studying tackle the hard bits first.

Good luck!

At Engen, we want to give you some extra encouragement during your final exams because we understand that education is the first step to a brighter future.

That’s one of the reasons why we invest in subjects that will be of long-term value to our business and South Africa. For nearly 3 decades, Engen Maths and Science Schools have provided extra tuition to learners in grades 10 to 12 across the country. Engen wishes you every success for your final matric exams. www.engenoil.com/education