bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Women, Income and Job Satisfaction: The Women Speaks
Authors: Adesina-Uthman Ganiyat Adejoke
Published: November 2017

Debate about gender discrimination in public and private offices is far from been over as it remains topical. Women occupy important positions in the society and socio-economic realm especially the informal sector. Little number of highly skilled women competes with men for jobs in order to ensure regular income and other to achieve different home survival strategies, or to meet their obligations in women-headed households. Consequently, this study investigates the level of satisfaction of carrier women in terms of the job and its income. Using survey method, the study seeks to know the degree of gender discrimination in terms of income, nature of job, sex, sexual abuse and how these are affecting women’s job satisfaction. The found that whether pay inequality exist or not it does not affect women’s level of job satisfaction. It also found that 45 percent of them have been exposed to a form of sexual harassment.
Implementation of CRM Strategies to Increase Customer Loyalty, Case of Kazakhstan Companies
Authors: Akhmedov Ramis
Published: November 2017

 

In the conditions of growing dynamics and complexity of the competitive world, the formation of loyalty is not an easy task, thus underscoring the need for companies to consider various strategic options and programs to survive and flourish. One such program is customer relationship management (CRM). Each organization seeks to maintain and use critical information about the needs and choices of customers to make them satisfied and loyal. This study suggests that customer relationship management generally affects customer satisfaction and its impact on customer loyalty. The research population was a customer of the company "Business Event Network". The SPSS program was used for the analysis. The results of testing the study showed that 102 respondents were able to explain the relationship between customer relationship management (CRM), customer satisfaction and customer loyalty "Business Event Network" company.  The result shows that customer relationship management has a significant impact on customer satisfaction; customer satisfaction significantly impact on customer loyalty.
The Pragmatics of Film Language and Sentence in the Creation of African Myths in Nigerian Movies: An Evaluation of Obi Emelonye’s The Mirror Boy
Authors: Ugwu Agozie
Published: November 2017

 

 

 

 

African myths or mythological reality of African extractions is one major source of raw materials the Nigerian movie industry popularly called Nollyword explores as an avenue for generating content for their films. Mythological realities like the appearance of the dead, re-incarnation, potency of the gods, life after death, the communion between the living and the dead and many more often times are represented in the Nigerian movies. Art evidently is a representation of the people’s culture. It is also a vehicle through which the people’s culture is driven. Myths are part of African culture and their efficacy in the preservation and sustenance of Nigerian culture appears to be the reason why the representation of mythological reality in Nigerian films has become a recurring decimal. It appears that the representation of mythological reality in Nigeria movies is yet to attain a level where the audience will be submerged into the world of the myths. This is because the potential audience has a consciousness and a preconceived idea of how these characters should be represented due to the archetypal nature of mythical characters. The audience should not through these representations have doubts over the potency of the African and Nigerian myths. To achieve this level of reality in the depiction of mythological reality, this chapter advocates for a pragmatic utilisation of the film sentence and language. The Mirror Boy  released in 2011 a film by Obi Emelonye is used as case study to establish the roles of film language and sentence in the representation of mythological reality.
Sleeping Habits and Perception of Its Health Effects among College Students
Authors: C. Adriansen Rachel , Childers Amy , Yoder Tessa , Abraham Sam
Published: November 2017

Inadequate sleep has detrimental effects on both students’ health and academic performance. While college students may know this information, they often do not prioritize sleep above other responsibilities of college life nor perceive their own health as being threatened. The purpose of this quantitative, descriptive study was to determine the sleeping habits and perception of its health effects among college students. In this study, 116 college students in the Midwestern United States were surveyed. Participants completed a demographic and a 19-item Likert-type survey about their sleep habits and their perception of its health effects. In this study, 61% of participants reported obtaining at least an average of 7 hours of sleep per night. In addition, 77% of the participants reported taking naps during the day, with 51% of the naps lasting at least an hour. By comparing the participants’ sleeping habits with the review of the literature, it was concluded that overall, participants did not have beneficial sleeping habits. The majority of the participants (M=3.49; SD=0.57 on a 4- point Likert-type scale), agreed that academics are affected because of the lack of sleep. In conclusion, college students do not have beneficial sleeping habits.
Impact of Optimized Protein in Infant Formula on the Metabolic and Nutritional Health in Infants: Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gutierrez-Castrellon Pedro , Luna-Carrasco Javier , Anzo-Osorio Anahi , Diaz Garcia Luisa , Villalpando-carrion Salvador , López-Velázquez Gabriel , Jiménez-Gutiérrez Carlos
Published: November 2017

Background. Increasing evidence demonstrate that concentration of protein in infant formula >1.9g/100Kcal with high levels of insulinogenic aminoacids is associated with accelerated weight gain, increased fat mass accumulation and risk of adiposity. Purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review to determine the metabolic effects in infants feed with infant formula optimized in protein. Methods. Systematic review was conducted according PRISMA Statement. RCTs with one intervention group (infant formula with 1.6-1.9gr of protein/100Kcal) and at least one comparative control group (infant formula with >1.9gr of protein/100Kcal) were included. Standardized mean differences (SMD), through random model were calculated. Results. 15 RCT were included. Optimized protein in infant formula was associated with less gain of BMI at 24 months of follow-up (SMD -0.25, IC95% -0.36 to -0.13, p 0.01) and less fat mass accumulation (SMD -0.68, IC95% -0.98 to -0.37, p 0.01). Optimized protein was also associated to less gain of weight, weight/age Z-score, weight/length Z-score, BUN (mmol/dL) and IGF1 (ng/ml). No effect on length/age Z-score was observed. Conclusions. Robust evidence showed optimized protein (1.6gr/100Kcal to 1.9gr/100Kcal) in infant formula is associated with metabolic benefits in infants with less weight gain, BMI and fat mass accumulation.
Unique Mixtures of Anionic/Cationic Surfactants: A New Approach To Enhance Surfactant Performance in Liquids-Rich Shale Reservoirs
Authors: He Kai , Xu Liang
Published: November 2017

Surfactants are important components in fracturing fluids for helping ensure higher productivity from unconventional reservoirs. Conventional wisdom suggests that surfactant mixtures generally exhibit better performance than individual surfactants. In addition, the synergism between surfactants increases with the degree of charge difference. Some current commercial surfactants were formulated by mixing nonionic and anionic surfactants (Sn/a), but few were formulated by mixing anionic and cationic (Sa/c) surfactants because of the risk of precipitation or formulation instability.

This paper discusses binary mixtures of Sa/c surfactants prepared with different mole ratios to determine their synergisms; mixtures of nonionic/anionic (Sn/a) and nonionic/cationic (Sn/c) surfactants are also compared. Surface/interfacial properties [maximum surface excess concentration (Γmax), minimum molecular area (Amin), critical micelle concentration (CMC), and Gibbs free energy (ΔG)] and interaction parameters (βm and βs) in both the mixed micelle and interface were quantified to demonstrate the synergistic effect between various surfactants. In addition, the potential application of these mixtures for unconventional treatments was examined with regard to emulsion behavior and column-packed oil-recovery testing.

The results for the Sa/c surfactant mixtures show that, compared with the parent species, Γmax of the Sa/c system is approximately one order of magnitude higher (corresponding to one order of magnitude lower in Amin). The resultant CMC is approximately two orders of magnitude lower than that of the parent species, and the ΔG of Sa/c is more negative. Notably, the interaction parameters further indicate that strong synergism exists for the Sa/c system at various mole ratios in both mixed micelle and monolayers at the interface (with an optimized ratio at 2:3), whereas for the Sn/a system, weak synergism was identified in the mixed micelle at the mole ratio of 3:2. No synergism was observed for the Sn/c system.

In addition, phase-behavior testing indicated that a weak emulsion was formed in the presence of the Sa/c by use of Eagle Ford crude oil. Column-flooding testing also revealed improved oil recovery of the Sa/c system compared with individual species. The synergistic effect between Sa/c surfactant mixtures, as well as the laboratory results of the emulsion behavior and oil recovery, suggests a new practice for applying Sa/c surfactant blends for unconventional applications.
AN ANALYSIS OF PIDD2 CONTROLLERS OPTIMAL ADJUSTING ALGORITHM IN MPP FUEL PREPARATION SYSTEM
Authors: Simanenkov Andrii
Published: November 2017

The possibility of introducing PIDD2 controllers into adaptive automatic control systems using the proposed algorithm for finding the optimum adjusting parameters of the specified controller is considered. The carried out analysis of the structural implementation of the PIDD2 controller and the estimation of the filter time constants of the first and second order differentiation units made it possible to formulate the structure of the PIDD2 controller-based adaptive automatic control system.

The proposed algorithm for finding the optimum adjusting parameters of the PIDD2 controller consists in a purposeful procedure for finding the optimal point with the maximum value of the transfer factor of the controller in the parameter space, taking into account the preset stability margin.

In determining the steps of the algorithm, the structural and parametric optimization of the filters of the differentiation links is performed, which make it possible to reduce the problem only to the search for adjusting parameters of the controller.

The work of the proposed algorithm is illustrated by the example of an automatic control system, where the mathematical model of the heat exchanger unit of the fuel combustion engine of the internal combustion engine is the controlled object.

Analysis of transient processes and frequency responce of the simulated system shows the qualitative superiority of the adaptive automatic control system with the optimally tuned PIDD2 controller over the conventional automatic system with a PID controller.

The versatility of the algorithm and the ability to periodically adjust the adjustments of the controller are also noted.
INVESTIGATION OF THE FORMATION PROCESS OF HAZARDOUS AND HARMFUL PRODUCTION FACTORS WHEN CUTTING A STONE FOR CONSTRUCTION WORKS
Authors: Bezpalova Alla , Lebedev Vladimir
Published: November 2017

Stone cutting for construction work is carried out by disk diamond wheels the rotation speed of which, and, consequently, the cutting speed is 35-50 m/s. In view of the high intensity of the cutting process and intensive microchip formation, the process of stone cutting is accompanied by considerable dust formation, which can be both harmful and dangerous in the work.

The greatest danger is represented by dust particles, which dimensions are 5 μm or less. These particles have the greatest pathogenic effect on the respiratory system of the human body. In addition, the settling time of these particles is measured in hours. Thus, even after the termination of work, the risk of dust exposure to the human body remains. Insignificant time of inhalation of these particles can lead a person to disability and death. Insurance payments in case of disability and compensation in case of death of an employee for these reasons all over the world amount to multibillion sums, which, even for this reason, makes the issue of combating this phenomenon very urgent.

In this paper, the process of generation of hazardous and harmful production factors arising as a result of dust formation during the stone cutting, the regularity of dust distribution by fractions, quantitative indicators of the process for improving equipment, as well as individual and collective means of personnel protection are determined. The shape and dimensions of the cutting grains of the cutting discs are studied in the paper, depending on the grain material and the grain size of the cutting disc. Thecurvature radii of the cutting grains depend on the grain material and the grain size of the cutting disc. The actual number of grains participating in cutting and, consequently, in dust formation is shown.

The dimensions of the dust particles depend on the graininess of the cutting discs and the processing regimes. Using the law of normal particle size distribution, the percentage of dust particles is determined depending on processing conditions. The rate of particle settling depends on their size and mass. The formation of a dust-air mixture and its probable concentration and chemical composition of dust depend on the chemical composition of the cutting materials.

Regularities are obtained, which can give an opportunity to improve the individual and collective protection of workers from this harmful production factor.
REVIEW OF RISKS REGARDING LOW TAX JURISDICTIONS WITHIN THE ESTONIAN TAX SYSTEM
Authors: Novikov Andrei
Published: November 2017

Over the last decade a tendency in the world started, regarding an opposition to the use of the offshore jurisdictions. Most of the countries have implemented legal norms, which create obstacles for pulling out capital from the state and into the low tax jurisdiction. As such, in order to do business one must not only understand the tax system of the country itself, but also how it regulates deals with offshores.
Ignoring this matter may lead to unplanned tax losses and damage the reputation of the company. At the same time, knowing such legal norms allow one to plan out his business and create an effective tax optimized business model, that will be able to provide stable income without breaking any legal norms.
In addition, Estonia, due its own tax system and due to being a member of EU provides sufficient grounds for effective tax planning. Thus, the matter of low tax jurisdiction regulation becomes even more important.
CONTRABAND OF GOODS AND CUSTOMS OFFENSE: THE ASSESSMENT OF GLOBAL CHALLENGES AND PROBLEMS FOR UKRAINE
Authors: Voytseshchuk Andriy
Published: November 2017

Creation of the effective system of customs inspection and formation of transparent procedures of its realization remain priority for world countries in the context of the qualitative integration into the global economic space and growth of global challenges. Illegal movement of goods and objects in global volumes is a threat for the customs space of all countries of the world, despite the development level. Main global tendencies as to contraband of goods and their movement with customs offenses were explained. Main contraband objects were revealed. It was established, that narcotic means occupy the one of first places among goods of illegal movement. Among narcotic substances cannabis is most required at the illicit market. Illegal trade of fauna and flora objects in the last years resulted to irreversible losses of rare species. Attention is accented on the problem of contrafact goods movement through the customs border. The native legislative practice of contraband regulation and customs offenses was elucidated. The assessment of main types of customs offenses in Ukraine was realized. The ways of counteraction to customs offenses of contraband of goods were determined.
STUDY OF STABILITY AND ANTIFRAGILITY OF REPUTATION IN VIEW OF MULTI-VECTOR CHARACTER OF REPUTATION MANAGEMENT OF ENTERPRISES
Authors: Derevianko Olena
Published: November 2017

The paper is devoted to the development of fundamental bases of the reputation management of enterprises and elaboration of its methodological and methodical support. There was offered to use “antifragility” conception in the reputation management of an enterprise that allows to activate the cooperation with key stakeholders and to trace the effectiveness of managerial arrangements. At that reputation antifragility that is the ability to its self-support is a criterion of effectiveness of the reputation management of an enterprise.
The projection of Taleb’s conception on the reputation management of enterprises provides the management balance (as a purposeful formation of an enterprise reputation) and self-management balance (as a spontaneous formation of an enterprise reputation) at the conceptual level. At that in the aspect of the economic approach, “antifragility of an enterprise reputation” is not equal to the notion “anticrisis enterprise management”, where the last one reproduces the process of counteraction to crisis phenomena. The features of reputation antifragility are considered as: stability as a closest synonym of antifragility; while assessing a reputation, it is necessary to take into account its ability to resist rare destructive events; anticrisis (crisis) reputation management as a necessary but not enough method of providing antifragility of an enterprise reputation; informational transparency and its necessity to form an antifragile enterprise reputation.
The research results demonstrate that the management decentralization, limitation of the direct managerial impact is a necessary condition to provide reputation “antifragility” that is its ability of self-restoration, strengthening and self-increment as a result of the conscious use of stressors. The way of the solution of the methodological problem of the natural “management deficit” in complicated multi-vector systems in the context of the theory of the reputation management is the model of the reputation management decentralization by transferring the part of functions from managers to stakeholders.
EFFECT OF THE DRUG FROM SOYBEAN AND AVOCADO ON THE COURSE OF OSTEOARTHROSIS OF THE KNEE JOINTS WITH CONCOMITANT METABOLIC SYNDROME IN WOMEN IN THE MENOPAUSAL PERIOD
Authors: Yakimenko Olena , Bogdan Nataliya
Published: November 2017

The most common articular pathology is osteoarthrosis of the knee joints. More than 10 % of the world's population suffers from this disease. The development of osteoarthrosis (OA) is also affected by metabolic syndrome (MS), which is characterized by abdominal obesity, dyslipidemia, arterial hypertension and disturbance of carbohydrate metabolism. The combination of MS and osteoarthrosis creates conditions of overload for the functioning of axial joints, which is one of the main causes of premature disability and invalidization of the population. Treatment of OA of the knee joints in women in the menopausal period with concomitant metabolic syndrome presents great difficulties. To achieve a stable result of treatment, therapy with chondroprotectors and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is used. Treatment was carried out in 60 women in the menopausal period with MS, suffering from OA of knee joints. In the group of women in the menopausal period with OA of knee joints and MS who took therapy with the inclusion of the soybean and avocado drug alongside with NSAIDs, a significant effect was obtained with regard to arresting the pain syndrome, improving the quality of life, reducing the degree of inflammation as well as increased joint mobility compared with the group of patients, who took only chondroprotectors and NSAIDs
THE GC-MS DETERMINATION OF CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS FROM HARPAGOPHYTUM PROCUMBENS DC ROOTS
Authors: Kriukova Anna , Vladimirova Inna
Published: November 2017

The present work is devoted to the study of the component composition of the volatile fraction of the heptanoic extract from Harpagophytum procumbens roots (“Starwest Botanicals”, USA). For this purpose the use of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was proposed. The GC-MS analysis was carried out on an Agilent 6890N/5973 inert gas chromatograph/ mass selective detector (Agilent Technologies, USA). The quantitative content of the components was calculated by the method of the internal standard. The components with the probability of coincidence for mass spectra of more than 90% were taken into account. As a result of the study more than 31 substances have been identified. Among the main groups of compounds the presence of aromatic hydrocarbons, esters and fatty acids, as well as alkanes and alkenes should be mentioned. Hexadecanoic acid (29.92 mg/kg), Octadec-9-enoic acid (21.39 mg/kg), 8-[4-[N-Aziridyl]butyl]amino-2,6-dimethyl-2,6-octadiene (6.46 mg/kg), Pentacosane (5.85 mg/kg), Hexadecanoic acid, trimethylsilyl ester (4.53 mg/kg) prevail in terms of quantity. Based on the results obtained the conclusion can be made that Harpagophytum procumbens DC is a promising herbal source for obtaining active ingredients with the anti-inflammatory, regenerative, analgesic, immunostimulating properties
STUDY OF AMINO ACID COMPOSITION IN A THALICTRUM FOETIDUM L. HERB
Authors: Savelieva Elena , Tishakova Tatyana
Published: November 2017

Submitted article is concerned with the study of amino acid composition in a Thalictrum foetidum L. herb. Investigations have been performed by the high performance liquid chromatography method based on the extraction of free amino acids from the herbal raw material and on the acid hydrolysis of the herbal medicinal products followed by analysis of hydrolizates using the HPLC with precolumn derivatization with 9-fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl chloride (FMOC) and o-phthaldialdehyde (OPA) attended by the detection with fluorescence detector. Amino acid identification has been performed by the comparison of retention times with the mixture of standard amino acids (Agilent 5061-3334). The content of bound amino acids has been determined by the subtraction of free amino acids composition from their total composition. As a result of study 15 essential and non-essential amino acids have been found. It is important to note that L-Serine, L-Histidine, Glycine and L-Phenylalanine are not in a free state in Thalictrum foetidum L. herb. The quantity of L-Glutamic and L-Aspartic acids is 17.47 and 13.41 µg/mg, respectively (common amino acids). The content of abovementioned acids in a bound state is 15.66 and 9.84 µg/mg, respectively. As for content of other amino acids which were found in Thalictrum foetidum L. herb, it has to be said about their practically the same composition which is in the range from 4 to 5 µg/mg. Content of L-Histidine (1.80 µg/mg in general and bound state) and L-Tyrosine (1.76 µg/mg in general state and 0.08 µg/mg in bound state) is minimum in this herb. It has been established that amino acids are in a free and bound state in the investigated herbal raw material. Content of bound amino acids is higher than general content. Among the amino acids, which are in the overwhelming majority in the studied herb, it stands to mention L-Glutamic and L-Aspartic. These amino acids play an important role in supporting the physiological processes of the body, especially nervous system. In consideration of experimental data to be noticed is that Thalictrum foetidum L. is a promising plant for creation of phytotherapeutic medications with neurally mediated action.
EXPERIENCE OF SURGICAL TREATMENT OF THE CAROTID BODY TUMOR AND TUMORS WITH INVASION AT THE CAROTID VESSELS
Authors: Kobza Ihor , Savchenko Arkadiy
Published: November 2017

The analysis of the structure and results of surgical treatment of 72 patients who were hospitalized in the department of vascular surgery Lviv regional hospital for the period 1995 to 2017. Among the 42 cases was diagnosed carotid body tumors (1-st study group) and at 30 patients was (2-nd control group) other tumors of the neck. In first group structure of surgery operation was: tumor removal and suturing the vascular wall defects - 76%, resection and shortening of the common carotid artery - 21%, expansion of the internal carotid artery - 3%, ligation of the external carotid artery - 10%, lymphadenectomy - 28%, prosthetic vascular wall - 3%, the tumor resection - 3%, internal jugular vein ligation - 7%, excision of fragment muscle - 3%, nerve resection - 14%. In the second group, the following surgical operations were performed: removal of the tumor and suturing of the defects of the vascular wall - 96%, lymphadenectomy - 48% tumor resection - 30%, ligation of the internal jugular vein - 14%, removal of the muscle fragment - 4% , resection of nerves - 13%. In group 1, intraoperative complications were observed in 1 (3.4%) cases, which were manifested by massive bleeding from the tumor, requiring a repeated surgical intervention to stop the bleeding. Postoperative complications were observed in 1 (3.4%) cases when acute cerebral ischemia developed. In 1 (3.4%) cases, tumor recurrence was observed after 9 years. Clinic experience shows that surgery is an effective treatment for carotid body tumor and tumors with invasion into vessels of the neck, providing a low rate of complications, a full recovery or long-term remission
SOME MARKERS OF SYSTEMIC INFLAMMATORY RESPONSE AND ENDOTHELIAL DYSFUNCTION IN PATIENTS WITH NEUROLOGIC MANIFESTATIONS OF LUMBAR OSTEOCHONDROSIS
Authors: Fadi Shadid , Krychun Igor
Published: November 2017

It has been established in numerous experimental and clinical studies that disc protrusion leads to a number of immunobiochemical processes and the inflammatory response of the body. It leads to a question: Aren’t the processes of herniation accompanied with endothelial dysfunction which can develop in connection with the chronic inflammatory process? The following research goal is set to address these issues: to study blood plasma for the content of some chronic inflammation markers and endothelial damage such as fibronectin, tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) in combination with the investigation of the functional state of the endothelium using Celermayer’s test in males under the age of 45 without signs of obesity and somatic or vascular pathology with various neurologic manifestations of lumbar osteochondrosis. 85 male patients have been examined for neurologic manifestations of spinal osteochondrosis at the age from 19 to 45. The examined patients included 45 individuals with radiculopathy verified by neuroimaging and 40 individuals with reflex manifestations of lumbar osteochondrosis. It has been shown that the examined patients of young age with exacerbation of discogenic radiculopathy accompanied with a prolonged pain syndrome experience an increase of fibronectin and tumor necrosis factor-alpha in plasma against the background of a decrease in the concentration of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 that are markers of inflammation and endothelial damage. The obtained data imply that patients with neurologic manifestations of osteochondrosis need active preventive measures of cardiovascular diseases with the mandatory inclusion of endothelial-tropic therapy
Screening for Chilling‐Tolerant Soybeans at the Flowering Stage Using a Seed Yield‐ and Maturity‐Based Evaluation Method
Authors: Yamaguchi Naoya , Ohnishi Shizen , Miyoshi Tomoaki
Published: November 2017

Cold weather damages soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] crops in high‐latitude countries. The decreased seed yields caused by low temperatures are attributed to three main factors: poor growth during the early growth stage, abscission of flowers and pods at the flowering stage, and insufficient grain filling at the pod‐filling stage. The abscission of flowers and pods is the most important factor that contributes to reduced yields. There are differences in chilling tolerance among cultivars developed in Japan at the flowering stage. This study screened for chilling‐tolerant (CT) soybeans developed in high‐latitude countries, such as Canada, Switzerland, Poland, and the Czech Republic. For the screening, plants were subjected to a 28‐d chilling‐temperature treatment after flowering in a phytotron, and six CT cultivars, ‘Maple Arrow’, ‘AC Proteus’, ‘Ceresia, Pelvoux’, ‘Silvia’, and ‘Mazowia’, were found by focusing on seed yield and maturity. These six CT cultivars matured earlier and had greater yields than Japanese cultivars in the field under severe chilling conditions. Moreover, we developed five breeding lines derived from a cross of the CT cultivars Mazowia and ‘Toyoharuka’ (TH). All five breeding lines matured earlier than TH and had yields similar to that of TH in the field under normal conditions. Phytotron tests revealed that the chilling tolerance levels of two of the breeding lines were slightly greater than that of TH. The six CT cultivars found in this study will be useful for chilling tolerance breeding.
Soil Quality Improvement through Conversion to Sprinkler Irrigation
Authors: Ippolito James A. , Bjorneberg David , Stott Diane , Karlen Doug
Published: November 2017

Core Ideas

Long‐term furrow irrigation has caused soil erosional losses.

Sprinkler irrigation is considered a water conservation practice.

Conversion from furrow to sprinkler irrigation improves soil quality in degraded field areas.

Conversion from furrow to sprinkler irrigation is a recommended conservation practice for improved water‐use efficiency (and erosion control), but effects on soil quality indicators are unknown. Several soil quality indicators were therefore quantified within a northwestern United States Conservation Effects Assessment Project (CEAP) watershed after changing from long‐term furrow to sprinkler irrigation. Four on‐farm sites were identified where producers were growing irrigated barley (Hordecum vulgare L.) using both irrigation practices. Climate, soil type, and management were similar between sites. Soil samples were collected from the upper and lower ends of furrow irrigated fields at three in‐field positions (bed, shoulder, and furrow); fields converted to sprinkler irrigation were sampled where the upper and lower ends were when the field was furrow irrigated. Soil quality indices (physical, chemical, biological, nutrient, and overall) were computed using the Soil Management Assessment Framework (SMAF). Regardless of in‐field position, furrow irrigated field bottoms had higher soil quality index scores than field tops because of long‐term erosional deposition. Within sprinkler irrigated fields, soil quality indices for field tops and bottoms showed minimal differences. Overall, when all sampling locations and in‐field positions were combined, soil quality was similar for both irrigation methods. However, as compared with furrow irrigation, sprinkler irrigation had greater soil quality indices in the field tops, suggesting that sprinkler irrigation improved soil quality of historically eroded furrow irrigated fields.
Actual problems of development of the banking sector in the economy of Kazakhstan
Authors: Kodasheva Gaukhar , Parusimova Nadezhda , Rispekova Madina , Uchkampirova Aigul
Published: November 2017

The article deals with topical issues to develop the banking sector in Kazakhstan as their condition assessment, weaknesses, strengths, problems and basic ways of development of Kazakhstan’s second-tier banks in the current environment, these issues are discussed in this article and determine the relevance of the material presented. The need to address the main problems in the development of the banking sector is due to the fact that it is represented as a fundamental element of the financial system. Moreover, under the modern conditions, it is subject to the impact of financial globalization, crisis phenomena in the world economy, the growth of uncertainty in the world financial market, which determines a number of negative consequences for the stable development of banking activities. Effective functioning of the banking system allows ensuring the sustainable economic development of any state, as the banking sector participates in the redistribution of funds and financing of the real sector of the country’s economy. At the present stage of the development, the issues of dealing with the key problems of the development of the banking sector acquire special relevance on a global scale, since the financial crisis has revealed the shortcomings of the current system of banking regulation and supervision. In this regard, in the crisis conditions, the state intervention in regulation of banking activities has intensified, the role of risk management in commercial banks has increased, the requirements to the bank’s capital, and the quality of assets has increased. Volatility and instability of the world financial markets require the search for new approaches in the implementation of banking activities to maintain sustainable development, increase margins in the banking business, which determines the relevance of this study. The main results of the research show the influence of external and internal factors that inhibit the development of banking activity.
Effectiveness of MFCA as a tool to improving sucrose quality in sugarcane production
Authors: Doorasamy Mishelle , Rhodes Bruce
Published: November 2017

Sugarcane production in South Africa is one of the major foreign exchange earnings, and constitute an important contributor to GDP growth of South Africa. It is argued that sucrose content, one of the significant components of sugarcane has been at the declining trend in the recent years. This study offers Material Flow Cost Accounting (MFCA) as an important tool, since it supports managerial decision making process by making it possible to visualize and quantify material losses. The study hypothesis is that can MFCA as tool increase organizational profitability. The study adopts models from literature to access the efficiency of MFCA as an important alternatives to the conventional accounting process. In this study, production cost has been classified into four categories, namely: system cost, energy cost, material flow cost and residual cost. Accessing the efficiency of this accounting skill, data from South African Sugarcane Milling industry has been adopted to establish our claim in the study and finally, this study has been able to implement the process involved in the use of MFCA. We, therefore, recommend the proficient use of MFCA in organizations among the South African industries as it possess the quality of classifying product cost from waste cost and hence improving profitability and organizational efficiency.
Relationship between environmental pressure and environmental disclosure in the sustainability reports of banks
Authors: D. Mchavi Nyiko , C. Ngwakwe Collins
Published: November 2017

This research evaluates the role of environmental pressure on the extend of environmental disclosure of South African banks. Although much research on corporate sustainability disclosure exists, this research is unique since little of the previous research in South Africa has given a closer examination of environmental pressure implication on the banking sector environmental disclosure. Research data were collected from secondary source, which are available from the sustainability reports of the sample of banks. Data were arranged and analyzed by means of the panel data multiple regression. Findings from the analysis showed that none of the seven environmental pressure variables had a significant relationship with banks’ environmental disclosure, which confirms assertion in the literature that banks are not much concerned with environmental issues. In conclusion, the research made some recommendations, which include that future researchers should expand the number of banks by including other financial institutions. Additionally, more research should be conducted to ascertain why external pressure is not very effective in motivating banks’ environmental disclosure as found in this study. Hence, the suggested question for further research is “what motivates bank’s environmental disclosure” and “do banks internalize or externalize their environmental costs”.
The role of chemical products at low doses in preventing the proliferation of bacteria in dental unit waterlines: the ICX® experience
Authors: Ditommaso Savina , Giacomuzzi Monica , Ricciardi Elisa , Garbuio Roberto , Zotti Carla M.
Published: November 2017

In this study we evaluated (1) the efficacy of a protocol that combines hydrogen peroxide (shock treatment) and ICX® tablets (continuous treatment) for the control of microbial contamination in dental unit water lines, and (2) the in vitro antimicrobial activity of ICX® tablets on collection and wild strains isolated from dental chair output waters. To assess the treatment effectiveness, the microbial load in the output water samples of three dental chairs were investigated: one control chair received only shock treatment. In vitro bactericidal activity was tested against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Data obtained from samples collected from chairs treated with ICX® and shock treatment and data from the control chair did not differ significantly on the basis of microbial load. In the in vitro study, the product was unable to kill Gram-negative bacteria. These results show that the continuous introduction of ICX® was not effective in maintaining low counts of the heterotrophic bacteria in the output water of dental devices, and shock treatment may be needed more frequently than monthly.
Pool water quality and prevalence of microbes in filter backwash from metro-Atlanta swimming pools
Authors: Murphy Jennifer L. , Hlavsa Michele C. , Carter Brittany C. , Miller Candace , Jothikumar Narayanan , Gerth Taryn R. , Beach Michael J. , Hill Vincent R.
Published: November 2017

During the 2012 summer swim season, aquatic venue data and filter backwash samples were collected from 127 metro-Atlanta pools. Last-recorded water chemistry measures indicated 98% (157/161) of samples were from pools with ≥1 mg/L residual chlorine without stabilized chlorine or ≥2 mg/L with stabilized chlorine and 89% (144/161) had pH readings 7.2–7.8. These water quality parameters are consistent with the 2016 Model Aquatic Health Code (2nd edition) recommendations. We used previously validated real-time polymerase chain reaction assays for detection of seven enteric microbes, including Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. E. coli was detected in 58% (93/161) of samples, signifying that swimmers likely introduced fecal material into pool water. P. aeruginosa was detected in 59% (95/161) of samples, indicating contamination from swimmers or biofilm growth on surfaces. Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia duodenalis were each detected in approximately 1% of samples. These findings indicate the need for aquatics staff, state and local environmental health practitioners, and swimmers to each take steps to minimize the risk of transmission of infectious pathogens.
Orthogeriatrics in Hip Fracture
Authors: Wilson Helen
Published: November 2017

Orthogeriatrics is a system of care for complex elderly patients who have suffered fragility fractures. This has resulted in demonstrable improvements in care for patients with hip fracture. The article includes a review of the early history of orthogeriatrics as well as current concepts in orthogeriatric care including the use of national databases, audit and important aspects of clinical care such as analgesia, perioperative decision making, ceilings of care and rehabilitation.
Modernising Hip Fracture Anaesthesia
Authors: Dawe Hannah
Published: November 2017

Hip fracture carries a 30-day mortality of around 8% in the United Kingdom. This figure has remained relatively unchanged despite modern developments in anaesthetic technique. These range from improvements in perioperative analgesia and mortality scoring systems, changes to intra-operative anaesthetic technique and strategies to reduce the requirement for blood transfusion. In this article, we review the current literature on the perioperative management of patients undergoing hip fracture surgery including some of the current controversies.
Decision Making in the Management of Extracapsular Fractures of the Proximal Femur – is the Dynamic Hip Screw the Prevailing Gold Standard?
Authors: Jacob Joshua , Desai Ankit , Trompeter Alex
Published: November 2017

Currently, approximately half of all hip fractures are extracapsular, with an incidence as high as 50 in 100,000 in some countries. The common classification systems fail to explain the logistics of fracture classification and whether they all behave in the same manner. The Muller AO classification system is a useful platform to delineate stable and unstable fractures. The Dynamic hip screw (DHS) however, has remained the ‘gold standard’ implant of choice for application in all extracapsular fractures. The DHS relies on the integrity and strength of the lateral femoral wall as well as the postero-medial fragment. An analysis of several studies indicates significant improvements in design and techniques to ensure a better outcome with intramedullary nails. This article reviews the historical trends that helped to evolve the DHS implant as well as discussing if the surgeon should remain content with this implant. We suggest that the gold standard surgical management of extracapsular fractures can, and should, evolve.
Vitamin D and Calcium Supplementation in Elderly Patients Suffering Fragility Fractures; The Road not Taken
Authors: Saini Aaron K. , Dawe Edward J.C. , Thompson Simon M. , Rosson John W.
Published: November 2017

Background:

Calcium and Vitamin D supplementation in elderly patients may decrease the risk of hip fracture by up to one-third. Many patients suffering fragility fractures do not go on to receive this treatment despite clear recommendations from the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). The aim of this study was to audit the proportion of patients admitted with a hip fracture who had suffered a previous fragility fracture and were taking calcium and vitamin D supplements, with the standard being that all of these patients should have been taking bone protection. We also aimed to assess the Vitamin D levels of patients admitted with a hip fracture to our unit.

Methods:

Patients were prospectively added to a database over a 12-month period. Serum vitamin D levels (25-OH D3) were measured on admission and case-notes were reviewed for pre-injury social function and mobility.

Results:

147 patients were included in the study. Median age was 85 years (Interquartile range 79 – 90 (Range 53 – 100 years)). Only eighteen patients (11.4%) were taking calcium and vitamin D supplementation on admission. Forty seven patients (29%) had documented evidence of a previous fragility fracture within the last seven years. Only fourteen of these patients (19%) were receiving calcium and vitamin D supplementation. One hundred and twenty two patients were deficient in Vitamin D (76%). Twenty five patients (16%) had insufficient Vitamin D. Only the remaining 14 patients (8%) had sufficient vitamin D.

Conclusion:

Vitamin D deficiency is endemic amongst patients suffering hip fractures. Very few patients who had suffered a previous fragility fracture were taking Calcium and Vitamin D supplements when admitted with a hip fracture several years later. This is an opportunity missed.
Chemical Composition and Biological Activity of the Essential Oil and Solvent Extracts of Scaligeria Nodosa
Authors: Jassbi Amir Reza , Zare Mehdi , Jamebozorgi Fatemeh Heidary
Published: November 2017

Background:

The essential oil and three solvent extracts of the aerial parts ofScaligeria nodosa(Boiss.) that were collected in Bamu Mountains (Iran), were screened for their antioxidant, antimicrobial properties and total phenolic contents for the first time.

Methods:

The essential oil was extracted by hydrodistillation and analyzed by capillary gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and GC flame ionization detector (GC-FID).

Results:

Forty five components were identified in the oil, among them, germacrene D (18.1±0.1%), bicyclogermacrene (1.4±0.0%), and spathunelnol (2.7±0.0%) were the major sesquiterpenoids,n-tetradecanol (4.9±0.0%) was the most abundant fatty alcohol and diisobuthyl phthalate (43.9±0.2%) was the most abundant constituent. The extracts of aerial parts ofSc. nodosawere prepared using different solvents; dichloromethane (DCM), methanol (MeOH) and MeOH: H2O (80:20). Antibacterial activity of the oil and each solvent extract was tested against three Gram-positive and three Gram-negative bacteria by nutrient broth micro dilution method. Among the tested microorganisms,Staphylococcus epidermidis(IC501.25-5mg/ml),Bacillus subtilis(IC501.25mg/ml) andEscherichia coli(IC501.25mg/ml) were the most susceptible to the applied oils and the extracts. The antioxidant potential and total phenol contents of the extracts were assessed by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay and Folin- Ciocalteu reagent, respectively. Methanol and 80% methanol extracts of the plant showed relatively weak DPPH radical scavenging activity and low amounts of total phenol contents.
Nutritional Status of HIV Clients Receiving HAART: Its Implication on Occurrence of Opportunistic Infection
Authors: Hussen Sadikalmahdi , Belachew Tefera , Hussein Nezif
Published: November 2017

Purposes:

We aimed to assess the effects of nutritional status on occurrences of opportunistic infection in HIV/AIDS patients using antiretroviral therapy at Jimma University Specialized Hospital.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective study on 340 adults who were taking antiretroviral therapy and the patients were followed for 2 years after they commence treatment. Medical Chart review was done from January 30 to February 28, 2014. SPSS for windows version 21 was used to analyze the data. The data was analyzed by SPSS for windows version 21.Time to occurrence of opportunistic infection was estimated by Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox-proportional Hazard model was used to identify predictors of opportunistic infections.

Results:

Eighty three [24.4%] patients developed opportunistic infection after initiation of highly active anti-retroviral therapy. Fifty five [66.3%] patients were from malnourished group. Malnutrition, Stavudine based regimen, Zidovudine based regimen and taking isoniazid prophylaxis were associated with greater hazard of developing opportunistic infections.

Conclusions:

Malnutrition was significant predictor of opportunistic infections. Malnourished patients were associated with high risk and early development of opportunistic infections.