Potential Link Between Hyperplastic Ovarian Cysts in Children - Exposure to Acid Mine Drainage: A Case Study from South Africa's East Rand Mike Buchanan (2025) Abstract This paper explores the potential correlation between environmental exposure to contaminants associated with acid mine drainage (AMD) and the occurrence of hyperplastic ovarian cysts in a 12-year-old child in the East Rand region of South Africa. The study highlights the presence of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in both waterborne and airborne forms emanating from AMD-affected areas, such as the Cinderella Dam and the ERPM mineshaft in the vicinity. Given the established endocrine-disruptive properties of several heavy metals and the developmental sensitivity of children, this paper calls for comprehensive environmental health assessments and epidemiological studies to validate and understand the health implications. 1. Introduction Hyperplastic ovarian cysts a...
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Showing posts from May, 2025
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Embracing Causative Solutions for Sustainable Interconnectedness Buchanan 2025 Abstract In a world increasingly defined by complexity and interdependence, the distinction between curative and causative approaches is critical. While curative methods provide immediate relief, they often exacerbate underlying issues by disrupting the interconnectedness of systems. This paper advocates for a shift towards causative solutions that address root causes, fostering resilience and sustainability. Introduction Perceived human systems - ecological, social and economic - are intricately linked. Traditional curative approaches tend to focus on symptomatic relief, often leading to unintended consequences that sever vital connections within these systems. This paper explores the importance of causative solutions in promoting a holistic understanding of interconnectedness. Limitations of Curative Approaches Curative methods, while ...
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Rising from Below: Reframing the Cradle of Humankind Through a Hypogenic Speleogenetic Lens Mike Buchanan (April 2025) Abstract The caves of the Cradle of Humankind have long been interpreted through an epigenic lens, where surface-derived waters slowly carved dolomitic voids over millions of years. This paradigm, however, neglects mounting evidence for hypogenic speleogenesis across the dolomite-rich Transvaal Supergroup. In this paper, I present a new model, all major dolomitic cave systems in Gauteng South Africa, including Sterkfontein, Swartkrans, and Rising Star, are fundamentally hypogenic in origin. This reinterpretation has profound implications for fossil preservation, paleoenvironmental reconstructions and the reliability of dating techniques. Through field-based observations, hydrogeological analysis, and geochemical insights, I argue that the hominin record must be recontextualised within a framework of rising, mineral-rich, thermally active waters. Introduc...
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Conceptualisation of a Thermal-Fracture Driven Aquifer System: Circumferentially to and within the Bushveld Igneous Complex The South African Mega Aquifer (TSAMA) Mike Buchanan 2025 Abstract This paper presents a novel conceptualisation of the basal Bushveld Igneous Complex (BIC) in South Africa as a deep-seated, highly fractured, structurally controlled, low-flow aquifer system due to altitude and elevation. Influenced by both thermal gradients and tectonic architecture. By integrating geological, hydrogeological, and geospatial datasets, the study delineates zones of enhanced vertical permeability, hydrothermal upwelling, and potential hypogenic speleogenesis within the dolomitic Transvaal Supergroup sequence. Key evidence includes the spatial coincidence of thermal springs, particularly near Bela-Bela and Groblersdal, with major tectonic lineaments and lithostratigraphic boundaries. These observations challenge the dominance of classical epigenic karst models and suggest...
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The Chalk Formations of the UK: A Hydrogeological and Environmental Perspective Mike Buchanan, 2025 Abstract The carbonate karst chalk formations of the United Kingdom (UK) are a unique and valuable resource, providing essential ecosystem services, including groundwater storage, filtration and supply (British Geological Survey, 2019). However, these formations are facing unprecedented threats from anthropogenic activities such as pollution, degradation, and destruction (Environment Agency, 2020). This publication provides an overview of the chalk formations of the UK, focusing on their hydrogeological characteristics (European Union, 2019) and the environmental impacts of human activity (National Trust, 2020). The report highlights the urgent need for sustainable land-use planning and management, stronger environmental regulations and enforcement, and increased public awareness to protect these vital geological systems. Introduction The chalk formations of the UK repres...