bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender-Based Discrimination In Nursing: A Ghanaian
Authors: Ofori DF
Published: May 2017

Purpose and objectives: The 'glass escalator' phenomenon holds that men in female dominated professions like nursing can rise quickly to the top. However, they can also suffer discrimination. This phenomenon is widely recognised in advanced countries. Trained, mostly female nurses have been leaving Ghana in droves for greener pastures abroad, particularly the US and UK, with serious consequences on the health delivery service in Ghana. Conversely, increasing numbers of males are joining the nursing profession. It examines whether male nurses in Ghana enjoy any hidden advantages, and if so, what makes the men successful (even with their limited numbers) in a women-dominated field and what the implications are for both male and female nurses. Problem investigated: The article explores gender-based discrimination and the phenomenon of the glass escalator in a developing country context. It examines the position of male nurses in Ghana; the type, nature and extent of advantages they enjoy and any discrimination they face in a female-dominated field. Methodology: An in-depth cross-sectional questionnaire was employed. A thematic and cluster analysis of findings was executed, with data captured using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). A combination of descriptive accounts as well as summary statistics using chi-square and correlations was used to examine the findings. Findings and implications: This paper reports the findings of an empirical study that show that male nurses neither suffer gender-based discrimination nor occupy the top positions in the nursing field. It also found that a majority of males do not want to leave the profession even though they feel they are assigned more responsibilities and are sometimes passed over for promotion.Originality: Whilst representing a modest contribution to research in gender-based discrimination in nursing, this paper is a first attempt to investigate the phenomenon in a Ghanaian context, with the dearth of relevant research in an area of increasing importance in Ghana serving as a huge fillip.
Strategising in a hyperturbulent and hyperfluid world: A lost cause?
Authors: Veldsman T. H.
Published: May 2017

Purpose: The viability of strategising under conditions of hyperturbulence and hyperfluidity has become a strong bone of contention. Can strategising be feasible and appropriate; create synergy and coherence; and be sustainable under such conditions? The aim of this paper is to propose reinvention requirements for strategising and to propose an overall strategising approach based on these requirements. Design/Methodology/Approach: The main thrust of the paper is to discuss five interdependent re-invention requirements for a strategising approach more suitable to hyperturbulence and hyperfluidity. Each of the five requirements seeks to address one or more of the criteria (e.g. feasibility, appropriateness, synergy) that strategising must meet in order to be a viable endeavour under the above conditions. Findings: Based on the discussion of these re-invention requirements, a revised overall strategising approach is proposed. The suggested approach centers around ensuring sustainable future value-adding for stakeholders; requires an enabling change navigation strategy and plan; the performance of the full repertoire of strategising acts; the execution of the strategising process itself; and a conducive strategising context. Implications: The paper offers an integrated, comprehensive reinvented strategising approach which is believed will contribute towards the continued viability of strategising under conditions of hyperturbulence and hyperfluidity, given strategising's increasingly critical role under these conditions. Originality/Value: The proposed requirements for re-invented strategising, and the suggested overall strategising approach based on these requirements, integrate not only what currently is treated as separate discourses in the strategic literature, but also reframe and/or combine this literature with the latest thinking regarding the nature and dynamics of the reality which needs to be strategised about and be transformed, e.g. complexity/chaos theory and change navigation. In this way, a fresh perspective is taken on strategising.
Developments and reforms in small business support institutions since 1996
Authors: Molapo S. , Mears R. R. , Viljoen J. M.M.
Published: May 2017

Purpose/objectives: The aim of the paper is to investigate the successes and shortcomings of the support services provided by the different Small Business Support institutions during the period 1996 to 2003. It also evaluates the recent developments in these Small Business Support institutions. Problem investigated: Many small businesses are still excluded from funds and support from Small Business Support Institutions. The paper investigates the extent to which these institutions provided financial as well as non-financial support to SMMEs in South Africa during the period 1996 to 2003. The paper further explores the changes in the legislation in 2004 in this regard, and explains how it intends to extent support to SMMEs. Design/Methodology/Approach: The paper assesses the small business development policy framework in terms of the functions and assistance of the Small Business Support institutions. Secondly, it analyses the microeconomic evaluation of the services provided for the period 1996 to 2003. This is followed by a macroeconomic evaluation of the impact of support programmes on employment creation, poverty alleviation and economic empowerment. Lastly, the successes and shortcomings of these support programmes are identified and changes since 2003 discussed. Findings/Implications: The fact that many SMMEs still do not get support, points to the shortcomings in the support programmes. Most programmes do not cater for the very small and micro-enterprises and most benefits from these programmes benefit SMMEs in urban areas. Originality/Value: The paper finds an original way to explain the shortcomings of Small Business Support institutions and the lack of data from these institutions since 2003. These institutions must do more than banks and also help those that can not be accommodated by commercial banks. Conclusion: The Small Business Support institutions must help the very small and micro-enterprises that can not be accommodated elsewhere.
Employment creation through public works programmes and projects in South Africa: Experiences and potentials
Authors: Thwala W. D.
Published: May 2017

Purpose/objectives: The aim of this article is to look at the experiences, problems and the potential contribution of employment creation programmes in alleviating the unemployment problem in other African countries through the construction of public infrastructure through the use of labour-intensive methods. The article then describes the problems and experiences that have been encountered in South Africa in relation to employment creation through the construction of public infrastructure.Problem investigated: In South Africa the levels of unemployment and poverty are extremely high and unemployment is one of South Africa's most pressing problems. At the same time there is a lack of capacity and skills at institutional, community and individual levels. Labour-intensive programmes generate more direct and indirect local employment opportunities and income by using locally available inputs (materials, simple tools and local labour) and thus creating a greater demand for local products and services than do high-technology programmes reliant on imported technology and equipment. Design/Methodology/Approach: Drawing on research on labour-intensive, public works programmes and projects, the paper is mainly a literature review. From a theoretical perspective supported by experience elsewhere in Africa, there are reasons for considering that properly formulated employment creation programmes based on the use of labour-intensive methods could be established to construct and maintain the required physical infrastructure, thus creating employment, skills and institutional capacities. The article closes with some recommendations for the future programmes success.Findings/Implications: The article attributes the failure of projects and programmes in South Africa to different factors which must be avoided in future in order for projects and programmes to be successful in South Africa. Investment in infrastructure has a huge potential to redress the high unemployment and poverty levels in South Africa and also to correct the skill shortages. Originality/Value: This article challenges the project-based approach and recommends a programme-based approach which is long-term as to address the problem of unemployment and skills shortages in South Africa. Conclusion: Public works programmes and projects in South Africa should change as the policy environment changes, from relief, emergency to a long-term structured employment-generation programme. The approach should link economic growth, employment and investment policies.
Measuring tourists' satisfaction with quality of life issues at an arts festival
Authors: Kruger S. , Petzer D.
Published: May 2017

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to measure tourists' satisfaction with quality of life issues at an arts festival - the Aardklop National Arts Festival in Potchefstroom. Problem investigated: Understanding satisfaction with quality of life issues could assist Festival organizers and other businesses to improve services for tourists by tailoring these to meet their needs. Satisfied tourists spread positive word-of-mouth communication and are more likely to return in the future. Methodology: A self-administered survey developed and validated by Neal, Sirgy and Uysal (1999:156 & 2004:245) was fielded at the 2007 Aardklop National Arts Festival in Potchefstroom. The target population included all visitors to the Festival who were staying for two or more days, and who had travelled to Potchefstroom from elsewhere. Findings and implications: Respondents were satisfied with travel / tourism services and experiences at the Festival, and with their leisure time and life in general. However, certain things at the Festival led to lowered levels of satisfaction. Demographically, respondents did not differ significantly in their levels of satisfaction with travel / tourism services, travel / tourism experiences, leisure life, and life in general at the Festival except in terms of population group and region from which they came. Organizers of the Festival and other businesses should take cognizance of the fact that all parties involved in providing services to tourists attending an arts festival impact on their satisfaction levels with travel / tourism services and experiences - and ultimately also on their quality of life. Tourists attending the arts festival are not homogenous and differ substantially in terms of their demographic profile. Tourist service providers should tailor their offerings in order to satisfy the varied needs of the different types of tourist attending the Festival. Originality and value of the research: This research focused on measuring tourists' satisfaction with quality of life issues at an arts festival. Such research has never before been conducted in South Africa; the results contribute to the deeper insight of interested parties (such as the tourism industry and arts festival managers) into what they need to offer at such events.
Focused training programmes for solving growth problems of very small businesses
Authors: Perks S. , Smith E. E.
Published: May 2017

Purpose and objectives: The purpose of the study is to investigate the various types of focused training programmes that should be designed for eliminating or preventing small business growth problems. To help achieve this main objective, the following secondary goals are identified : To highlight the role and nature of entrepreneurial training. To identify possible focused training programmes for solving very small business problems. To determine how training programmes should be structured to target very small business growth problems. To explore which other method(s), besides training programmes could be uitilised for solving very small black business entrepreneurs' growth problems. To provide trainers with guidelines in designing focused training programmes for solving very small business problems.Problem investigated: South African entrepreneurs have a poor skills record, which inhibits small business growth. The needs of a business changes as the business grows, resulting in growing pains for the very small business entrepreneur. Successful entrepreneurs are not necessarily academically inclined and often learn in a more dynamic, non-linear environment, therefore various specific focused training programmes need to be designed that can assist very small business entrepreneurs in eliminating or preventing small business growth problems.Methodology: A qualitative study was done, in which an empirical survey was conducted by means of a series of in-depth interviews with ten very small black business entrepreneurs.Findings: The empirical results identified seven types of training programmes focusing on financial management computer training, operations management, people management, marketing management, management and investment management. Other training programmes indicated were stress management, time management and security management. Within each of these types of training programmes specific focus areas were identified.Value of the research: The value of the research lies in the fact that specific focus areas were identified within the training programmes. Other studies have attempted to identify training programmes but the content thereof was not necessarily linked to the problems that very small businesses experienced, especially when attempting to grow. Time-, staff- and financial constraints regarding training programmes can be overcome.Conclusions: Training programmes should focus on specific training areas, be after hours and be well publicised. Computer training should preferably be on site on a one-to-one basis. Training programmes should suit the skills level of the very small business entrepreneurs and be broken up into smaller sessions to ensure understanding and meeting time constraints.
The role and influence of wine awards as perceived by the South African wine consumers
Authors: Herbst F. J. , Von Arnim Christiane
Published: May 2017

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine whether, in the mind of the consumer, wine awards do indeed play a significant role in influencing consumer choices. Initially, a literature review was conducted to establish the role of wine awards in wine marketing. Problem investigated: The increasing number of wine competitions appears to dilute the value of wine awards as a marketing tool. The local wine consumers are currently bombarded by a variety of wine choices and need to use cues to assist them in making buying decisions. Consumers are also sceptical about the honesty of producers in marketing their awards. The question arises, whether, in the minds of South Africa's wine consumers, awards play a strong enough role in influencing their choice when buying wine. Research design: A convenience sample was drawn among South African wine consumers by using an online survey questionnaire. A sample of 285 was realised and the data analysed by using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Findings and implications: Wine awards are indeed recognised by the consumer as a cue that shapes their choices / selection criteria, but their importance is relatively low compared to other cues such as variety, vintage, producer, production method, packaging, place of origin and price. Yet, having established that decision-making is a complex set of interactions, wine awards do nevertheless play a role in supporting a decision in certain circumstances and for certain customer segments. Generally speaking, it was found that the more sophisticated a consumer (connoisseur) is the less regard exists for wine awards. Not only do wine awards have lesser power in shaping decisions, but also attitudes towards the concept of wine awards are more negative. Lesser informed consumers tend to take more guidance from, and are less opinionated about the concept of wine awards. An independent monitoring authority is seen as a solution to raise the profile of wine awards in South Africa, thus creating more credibility and power for this tool. Value of the research: Although a representative sample was not drawn, the wine consumers included in this study strongly suggested that an independent authority is needed to monitor wine awards in South Africa. This could enhance the value of wine awards as a marketing tool, whilst wine awards and medals should be aimed at the less informed segments of the local market. Conclusion: The study revealed that while wine awards are indeed recognised by the majority of consumers as a cue that shapes their choices, the importance thereof is relatively low compared to other elements of the marketing mix. Wine producers and marketers should use wine awards only to support other quality claims.
Franchisees' level of satisfaction with the franchise relationship
Authors: Van Wyk Gerhard J , De Jager Johan W.
Published: May 2017

Problem investigated and objectives: Franchisees often complain that franchisors do not meet their needs, and are generally viewed as being unhappy with the franchise relationship between franchisees and franchisors. The aim of this paper is to investigate the level of satisfaction of franchisees with the franchise relationship, including the following elements: franchisee independence, support with the selection of a distribution point, allocation of geographical trading areas, support with the design and layout of distribution points, comprehensive training programmes, the provision of continuous market and product information and operational support, and advertising and financial support, including systems for bookkeeping. Approach: The data represents two groups of the same franchise, namely franchisees operating for two years and less as franchisees and franchisees who have been operating for longer than two years as franchisees. The extent to which these two groups view the relationship elements differently will be examined. Findings: The findings indicate that both groups had a high level of satisfaction with the franchise relationship between franchisees and franchisors, with the exception of identified opportunities, which could be further developed in order to increase the franchisees' level of satisfaction with the franchise relationship between franchisees and franchisors. Conclusion: In view of the results of this research, it was concluded that the franchisees of the selected franchisor in the franchise industry displayed a high level of satisfaction with the franchise relationship between franchisors and franchisees.
Resiliency management within a globally integrated economic network
Authors: Weeks Richard V.
Published: May 2017

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to gain an understanding of resiliency management within a turbulent globally integrated economic network. Problem investigated: The South African economy functions as an integrated component of the global economic network, one that is highly competitive and extremely turbulent in nature. The current subprime initiated economic meltdown and the impact thereof on South African government, business and industry institutions serves as a case in point. The question posed is one of how best to manage institutional resiliency within such a complex environment. Methodology: A literature study is undertaken and a narrative enquiry conducted by means of open ended discussions with fourteen South African managers on an individual basis to determine the impact of the economic meltdown on South African organisations and the nature of resiliency management in response thereto. The approach adopted is intentionally analytical-descriptive in nature. The narrative enquiry constituted open ended discussions with managers in order to learn from their personal experience in resiliency management. In view of the sensitive nature of the discussions and to get a more reliable reflection of the true situation that exists they were conducted on a basis of anonymity. Findings: An important conclusion drawn from the study is that the culture and climate of the institution play a very fundamental role in resiliency management. Nurturing a culture of ''resiliency awareness'' is deemed to be a vital aspect in dealing with the emergent consequences of sudden, unexpected and unpredictable events such as the subprime economic meltdown. Value of the research: Seen within the context of a prevailing highly turbulent and unpredictable globally networked economy, the insights gained from the study could assist executives and managers in exploring alternative means of engendering institutional resiliency. Conclusion: Resiliency management embodies both a proactive and a reactive approach, each of which inherently have organisational culture and climate implications. The nurturing of a culture of ''resiliency awareness'' is found to be a vital ingredient in managing institutional resiliency in the face of unprecedented, unexpected and unforeseen events that have a significant impact on the institution and its operational activities.
Análise hidrodinâmica do estuário do rio Lima, Portugal, a partir de simulação numérica
Authors: Brito Costa Nelson Carvalho Dantas de , Venâncio Stênio de Sousa , Silva Pinho José Luís da , Pereira Vieira José Manuel
Published: May 2017

A complexidade que envolve a gestão sustentável das zonas costeiras, associada a sua relevância econômica e sócioambiental, tem como pré-requesito o conhecimento do padrão hidrodinâmico dos estuários, que é influenciado diretamente pelas vazões típicas e pelas marés oceânicas, como também pode sofrer impacto devido às alterações morfológicas do leito e condições de estratificação. Neste trabalho, com base no programa Delft3D, desenvolvido pela Deltares, um modelo bidimensional foi criado para a análise de padrões hidrodinâmicos do estuário do rio Lima, Portugal, a partir de simulação dos níveis da superfície livre e velocidades, considerando vazões fluviais extremas e maré alta de águas vivas. Dados de campanha hidrométrica, com monitorização da dinâmica da superfície livre do estuário, foram obtidos em quatro estações específicas e serviram para a calibração do modelo apresentando uma boa correlação entre os valores de níveis medidos e simulados, com ligeiro desvio no período de maré baixa. Pelo modelo de eficiência de Nash-Sutcliffe (NSE), por exemplo, com excessão da estação de Lanheses2 (com NSE = 0,87), as outras três estações monitoradas apresentaram NSE acima de 0,94. O modelo apresentou robustez e se mostrou capaz em representar o fenômeno real, e permite identificar o comportamento hidrodinâmico do estuário em cenários distintos de vazão e maré. As zonas suscetíveis a inundações, assim como a influência que a vazão e a maré oceânica exercem sobre o padrão hidrodinâmico, foram analisadas numericamente. Os resultados apontaram uma maior influência da vazão fluvial sobre os níveis de água no estuário, sendo que a maré exerce maior influência para o interior do estuário, principalmente em cenários de baixas vazões fluviais. O modelo pode ser considerado como uma ferramenta básica para o estudo e processo de gestão do estuário do rio Lima, cuja abrangência depende da extensão das campanhas de monitorização e calibração dos parâmetros envolvidos, que são objetivos da continuidade deste trabalho.
Effects of global climate change on chlorophyll-a concentrations in a tropical aquatic system during a cyanobacterial bloom: a microcosm study
Authors: Moura Meirielle Euripa Pádua de , Rocha Lorraine Dos Santos , Nabout João Carlos
Published: May 2017

Recent studies have investigated the impact of climate change on aquatic environments, and Chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) concentration is a quick and reliable variable for monitoring such changes. This study evaluated the impact of rainfall frequency as a diluting agent and the effect of increased temperature on Chl-a concentrations in eutrophic environments during a bloom of cyanobacteria. This was based on the hypothesis that the concentration of Chl-a will be higher in treatments in which the rainfall frequency is not homogeneous and that warmer temperatures predicted due to climate change should favor higher concentrations of Chl-a. The experiment was designed to investigate three factors: temperature, precipitation and time. Temperature was tested with two treatment levels (22°C and the future temperature of 25°C). Precipitation was tested with four treatments (no precipitation, a homogeneous precipitation pattern, and two types of concentrated precipitation patterns). Experiments were run for 15 days, and Chl-a concentration was measured every five days in each of the temperature and precipitation treatments. The water used in the microcosms was collected from a eutrophic lake located in Central Brazil during a bloom of filamentous cyanobacteria (Geilterinema amphibium). Chl-a levels were high in all treatments. The higher temperature treatment showed increased Chl-a concentration (F=10.343; P=0.002); however, the extreme precipitation events did not significantly influence Chl-a concentrations (F=1.198; P=0.326). Therefore, the study demonstrates that future climatic conditions (projected to 2100), such as elevated temperatures, may affect the primary productivity of aquatic environments in tropical aquatic systems.
Utilização da estrutura de comunidades de macroinvertebrados bentônicos como indicador de qualidade da água em rios no sul do Brasil
Authors: Chagas Flávia Bernardo , Rutkoski Camila Fatima , Bieniek Gregori Betiato , Pasquali Vargas Gean Delise Leal , Hartmann Paulo Afonso , Hartmann Marilia Teresinha
Published: May 2017

Macroinvertebrados bentônicos são afetados pela alteração dos sistemas aquáticos, que diminuem ou aumentam sua população. O conhecimento sobre macroinvertebrados bentônicos pode ser utilizado para conhecer a qualidade da água de lagos e rios, pois estes organismos respondem às variações nas condições ambientais. O objetivo deste estudo foi utilizar a estrutura de comunidades de macroinvertebrados como indicador de qualidade ambiental em dois rios de abastecimento público no município de Erechim, Estado do Rio Grande do Sul. As coletas foram realizadas mensalmente de novembro de 2014 até abril de 2015, utilizando-se amostrador tipo Surber. Para a avaliação das condições ambientais foi aplicado um protocolo de avaliação rápida (PAR). Foram identificados 4.096 macroinvertebrados, distribuídos em 41 táxons de Annelida, Nematoda, Crustacea, Aracnida e Insecta. Os dois rios apresentaram trechos com alteração antrópica nas margens e os ambientes mais alterados foram associados com a maior abundância do grupo trófico coletor-catador. Integrar o método de avaliação da diversidade de habitats com análises da comunidade bentônica pode ser um método eficiente para obtenção de parâmetros mais completos da qualidade da água e da degradação dos sistemas aquáticos.
Efetividade do ensaio Trad-MCN para avaliação de contaminantes atmosféricos em regiões brasileiras
Authors: Sposito Juliana Caroline Vivian , Francisco Luiza Flávia Veiga , Grisolia Alexeia Barufatti
Published: May 2017

A planta Tradescantia pallida (Rose) D.R. Hunt var. purpurea tem sido utilizada em diversos modelos experimentais para detecção de danos morfofisiológicos e genéticos, por ser uma planta sensível a poluentes atmosféricos. No entanto, dentre os biotestes utilizados para avaliação do potencial mutagênico de contaminantes ambientais, o bioensaio de micronúcleo em Tradescantia (Trad-MCN) é um dos testes mais utilizados em estudos de monitoramento das condições atmosféricas. Diante do exposto, foi realizada uma revisão de literatura, identificando regiões brasileiras que utilizaram o bioensaio de micronúcleo em Tradescantia para monitorar alterações genéticas advindas da contaminação atmosférica. O levantamento de trabalhos indexados foi realizado em bancos de referência, como Portal de Períodicos CAPES, SciELO, ScienceDirect e PubMed, sendo os mesmos investigados quanto às regiões brasileiras biomonitoradas, período, área, exposição, monitoramento ativo ou passivo e planta natural ou clone. Os resultados indicaram que pesquisas baseadas no bioensaio Trad-MCN foram realizadas em diversas regiões brasileiras. Verificou-se que a maioria dos trabalhos são oriundos da região sudeste, especialmente do estado de São Paulo. Esse fato pode ser atribuído ao maior número de indústrias e automóveis em circulação existentes neste estado quando comparado aos demais, podendo interferir diretamente na qualidade do ar, despertando assim o interesse no meio científico. Com base nesta investigação, o bioensaio Trad-MCN revelou eficácia, e a planta Tradescantia demonstrou ser importante indicadora biológica de danos genéticos ocasionados pela exposição aos poluentes atmosféricos, e é amplamente utilizada na região sudeste do país.
Hydrological modeling of the Ribeirão das Posses – An assessment based on the Agricultural Ecosystem Services (AgES) watershed model
Authors: Cruz Patrícia Porta Nova da , Green Timothy R. , Figueiredo Ricardo De Oliveira , Pereira Anderson Soares , Kipka Holm , Saad Sandra Isay , Silva Jonathan Mota da , Gomes Marco Antonio Ferreira
Published: May 2017

Southeastern Brazil has recently experienced drought conditions that have impacted watershed conservation and the management of water quality and quantity for agricultural and urban demands. The Ribeirão das Posses watershed is being monitored as a headwater of the Jaguarí River, which is one of the contributing rivers of the Cantareira Reservoir Complex in the state of São Paulo. The landscape has changed over the last century from native forests to more homogeneous vegetation for pastures, crops and some forest plantations of eucalyptus, which have cumulative impacts on water yield and quality. Currently, the Projeto Conservador das Águas (Water Conservationist Project) has planted small areas with native species vegetation in order to recover degraded areas. The objective of this study was to evaluate the quantity of water in the Ribeirão das Posses Basin by both measurements and by simulating hydrological responses. The Agricultural Ecosystem Services (AgES) watershed model was applied to simulate water movement and storage among land areas. The simulation period was from 2009 to 2014, because the daily streamflow and meteorological data were available for model calibration and testing. We discuss data input requirements, model calibration to fit measured streamflow, and sensitivity to spatially variable rainfall inputs. The calibrated model may be used to estimate streamflow during periods of missing data, and in the future to estimate impacts of land use changes on stream water quantity and quality. Such information can be used in programs of payments for ecosystem services.
Application of gPCRK Methods to Nonlinear Random Differential Equations with Piecewise Constant Argument
Authors: Zhang Chengjian , Shi Wenjie
Published: May 2017

We propose a class of numerical methods for solving nonlinear random differential equations with piecewise constant argument, called gPCRK methods as they combine generalised polynomial chaos with Runge-Kutta methods. An error analysis is presented involving the error arising from a finite-dimensional noise assumption, the projection error, the aliasing error and the discretisation error. A numerical example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of this approach.
Exponential Additive Runge-Kutta Methods for Semi-Linear Differential Equations
Authors: Zhao Jingjun , Long Teng , Xu Yang
Published: May 2017

Exponential additive Runge-Kutta methods for solving semi-linear equations are discussed. Related order conditions and stability properties for both explicit and implicit schemes are developed, according to the dimension of the coefficients in the linear terms. Several examples illustrate our theoretical results.
Output Feedback Admissible Control for Singular Systems: Delta Operator (Discretised) Approach
Authors: Dong Xin-zhuang , Xiao Mingqing
Published: May 2017

Singular systems simultaneously capture the dynamics and algebraic constraints in many practical applications. Output feedback admissible control for singular systems through a delta operator method is considered in this article. Two novel admissibility conditions, derived for the singular delta operator system (SDOS) from a singular continuous system through sampling, can not only produce unified admissibility for both continuous and discrete singular systems but also practical procedures. To solve the problem of output feedback admissible control for the SDOS, an existence condition and design procedure is given for the determination of a physically realisable observer for the state estimation, and then a suitable state-feedback-like admissible controller design based on the observer is developed. All of the conditions presented are necessary and sufficient, involving strict linear matrix inequalities (LMI) with feasible solutions obtained with low computational costs. Numerical examples illustrate our approach.
Admissible Regions for Higher-Order Finite Volume Method Grids
Authors: Zhang Yuanyuan , Chen Zhongying
Published: May 2017

Admissible regions for higher-order finite volume method (FVM) grids are considered. A new Hermite quintic FVM and a new hybrid quintic FVM are constructed to solve elliptic boundary value problems, and the corresponding admissible regions are investigated. A sufficient condition for the uniform local-ellipticity of the new hybrid quintic FVM is obtained when its admissible region is known. In addition, the admissible regions for a large number of higher-order FVMs are provided. For the same class of FVM (Lagrange, Hermite or hybrid), the higher order FVM has a smaller admissible region such that stronger geometric restrictions are required to guarantee its uniform local-ellipticity.
Case Report: Clinical Features of a Case of Suspected Borrelia miyamotoi Disease in Hokkaido, Japan
Authors: Yamano Kimiaki , Ito Takuya , Kiyanagi Kaori , Yamazaki Hirotaka , Sugawara Mutsubu , Saito Takashige , Ohashi Norio , Zamoto-Niikura Aya , Sato Kozue , Kawabata Hiroki
Published: May 2017

We herein report a case of suspected Borrelia miyamotoi disease in Hokkaido, Japan. The patient complained of lassitude, arthralgia, and high fever after a tick bite. Furthermore, at the time of consultation, the patient exhibited momentary loss of consciousness and low blood pressure. Laboratory tests revealed elevation of liver enzymes, thrombocytopenia, and increased C-reactive protein. Seroconversion to B. miyamotoi glycerophosphoryl diester phosphodiesterase antigen suggested the patient was infected with a relapsing fever group Borrelia species.
Performance of Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction Assays for the Detection of 20 Gastrointestinal Parasites in Clinical Samples from Senegal
Authors: Sow Doudou , Parola Philippe , Sylla Khadime , Ndiaye Magatte , Delaunay Pascal , Halfon Philippe , Camiade Sabine , Dieng Thérèse , Tine Roger C. K. , Faye Babacar , Ndiaye Jean Louis , Dieng Yémou , Gaye Oumar , Raoult Didier , Bittar Fadi
Published: May 2017

Gastrointestinal parasite infections represent one of the biggest public health problems in the world. Therefore, appropriate innovative tools are needed for assessing interventions to control these infections. This study aims to compare the performance of real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays to microscopic examination for detection of intestinal parasites. A direct microscopic examination and stool concentration was performed on 98 stool samples from patients attending Senegalese hospitals. Negative microscopic control samples were also collected in Nice and Marseille (France). Species-specific primers/probes were used to detect 20 common gastrointestinal protozoans and helminths. Positive frequency and the sensitivity of each real-time PCR assay were compared with conventional microscopic examination. Real-time PCR was positive in 72 of 98 samples (73.5%), whereas microscopic examination was positive in 37 (37.7%) samples (P < 0.001). The real-time PCR assays were more sensitive than microscopy, with 57.4% (31/54) versus 18.5% (10/54), respectively, in the detection of parasites in asymptomatic patients (P < 0.05). In terms of polyparasitism, there were more coinfections detected by real-time PCR assays compared with microscopic methods (25.5% versus 3.06%). In comparison to parasite prevalence on individual samples, the results showed a perfect agreement (100%) between the two techniques for seven species, whereas discrepancies were observed for the others (agreement percentage varying from 64.2% to 98.9%). Real-time PCR appeared to be superior to microscopic examination for the detection of parasites in stool samples. This assay will be useful in diagnostic laboratories and in the field for evaluating the efficacy of mass drug administration programs.
Progesterone (P4), luteinizing hormone (LH) levels and ovarian activity in postpartum Santa Inês ewes subject to a male effect
Authors: Ferreira-Silva José Carlos , Burnett Tracy Anne , Souto Paulo Francisco Maciel Póvoas , Filho Paulo Castelo Branco Gouveia , Pereira Lucas Carvalho , Araujo Mariana Vieira , Moura Marcelo Tigre , Oliveira Marcos Antonio Lemos
Published: May 2017

Abstract. This study aimed to establish P4 and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels and ovarian activity as approaches to monitor the cyclicity of ewes under postpartum anestrus after the male effect approach. Santa Inês females (n  =  66) were evenly distributed into experimental groups where they were brought into contact with an intact male during the postpartum period of 35 to 40 days (T1) and 55 and 60 days postpartum (T2). Ewes were isolated from males for 30 days before the onset of the experiment. Estrus events were detected in 93.30 % (T1) and 100 % (T2) of females. Mean P4 concentrations (η g mL−1) before and after mating were 0.53 ± 0.17 and 4.55 ± 0.24 (T1) and 0.73 ± 0.06 and 4.90 ± 0.11 (T2), respectively, and concentrations were found to be lower (P  <  0.05) before contact between genders. Preovulatory peaks of LH (η g mL−1) were evaluated at 42 (T2) and at 80 h (T1) after exposure to males, with mean ovulatory follicles of 7.90 ± 0.31 (T1) and 8.50 ± 0.30 mm (T2) and a mean number of ovulations of 1.50 ± 0.54 (T1) and 1.60 ± 0.51 (T2). Pregnancy rates were 85.70 % (T1) and 93.3 % (T2), with no difference (P  >  0.05) between groups. Results showed that the male effect was effective for inducing and concentrating the occurrence of estrus in postpartum ewes that had lambed within 35 to 60 days previously. Moreover, preovulatory LH peaks occurred within 80 h after physical contact between genders, which led to follicle luteinization and increased P4 concentration, without compromising pregnancy rates. The male effect can be used with postpartum ewes that had lambed within 35 to 40 days previously in order to decrease time between deliveries.
Ocean acidification dampens warming and contamination effects on the physiological stress response of a commercially important fish
Authors: Sampaio Eduardo , Lopes Ana R. , Francisco Sofia , Paula Jose R. , Pimentel Marta , Maulvault Ana L. , Repolho Tiago , Grilo Tiago F. , Pousão-Ferreira Pedro , Marques António , Rosa Rui
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Increases in carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases emissions are leading to changes in ocean temperature and carbonate chemistry, the so-called ocean warming and acidification phenomena, respectively. Methylmercury (MeHg) is the most abundant form of mercury (Hg), well-known for its toxic effects on biota and environmental persistency. Despite more than likely co-occurrence in future oceans, the interactive effects of these stressors are largely unknown. Here we assessed organ-dependent Hg accumulation (gills, liver and muscle) within a warming (ΔT = 4 ºC) and acidification (ΔpCO2 = 1100 µatm) context, and the respective phenotypic responses of molecular chaperone and antioxidant enzymatic machineries, in a commercially important fish (the meagre Argyrosomus regius). After 30 days of exposure, although no mortalities were observed in any treatments, Hg concentration was significantly enhanced under warming conditions, significantly more so in the liver. On the other hand, increased CO2 decreased Hg accumulation and, despite negative effects prompted as a sole stressor, consistently elicited an antagonistic effect with temperature and contamination on oxidative stress (catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione-S-tranferase activities) and heat shock (Hsp70 levels) responses. We argue that the mechanistic interactions are grounded on simultaneous increase in excessive hydrogen (H+) and reactive oxygen species (e.g. O2−) free radicals, and subsequent chemical reaction equilibrium balancing. Additional multi-stressor experiments are needed to understand such biochemical mechanism and further disentangle interactive (additive, synergistic or antagonistic) stressor effects on fish ecophysiology in the oceans of tomorrow.
FATIGUE CHARACTERIZATION OF A THERMOPLASTIC ELASTOMER
Authors: Mars W. V. , Ellul M. D.
Published: May 2017

The capacity to resist crack development in an olefinic thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) has been measured via a set of experiments that quantify (1) the fracture mechanical strength of the material under quasi-static loads, (2) the rate of growth of a crack under dynamic solicitations as a function of the energy release rate, and (3) the size of crack precursors in new material. Because the subject TPE exhibited strong inelasticity in the stress–strain response, it also was necessary to characterize the development of an inelastic set under cyclic loading as a function of the applied strain. Combined with the multiplicative kinematic split, this additional measurement yields the elastic part of the strain. It also enables engineering calculations to be made of fatigue life.
Khanqahi Pir Dastgir and the Evolution of Rituals
Authors: Ali Andrabi Syed Damsaz
Published: May 2017

Khanqahi Pir Dastgir at Khanyar in Srinagar is the centre of Qadriya Sufis in the valley of Kashmir. Among the Sufi Silsilas they the last to enter into the valley. But within a short period of time they became too much popular as compared to others. People of all faiths got attracted towards Qadriya Sufi center to seek guidance and also acquired knowledge of different allied subjects. Encouraging efforts changed the educational system and position of women in valley. The simplicity of the communication and uncomplicated devotional practices attracted the different groups towards Qadriya rituals. Day today life shows close affinity with their rituals as a result of their influence over a long period of time. The allegiance of all the craftsmen to the popular traditional practices which are only identified with Qadriya Sufis. Both urban and rural people got attracted towards their distinctive rituals. Through these rituals peace and prosperity engulfed the valley. The deep rooted faith of people in the practices is the clear indication of their years influence on overall society.
Modelos experimentais para estudos em nutrição: hipertensão arterial e diabetes melitus
Authors: BERNARDI Luana , MALINOSKI Bruna , CAIN Jessica Patricia , ANTONOVICZ Simone , AMARAL Luane Aparecida do
Published: May 2017

Objetivo: Revisão sistemática de literatura com objetivo de identificar os modelos animais mais utilizados em experimentos para indução do diabetes mellitus e da hipertensão arterial, bem como o método mais utilizado para a indução dessas patologias em animais de laboratório. Métodos: Foram incluídos estudos das bases de dados Scielo e Lilacs, associando-se as palavras-chave: hipertensão e diabetes mellitus experimental. A busca incluiu artigos dos últimos 5 anos (janeiro de 2012 a setembro de 2016) em português e inglês. Inicialmente, os artigos foram selecionados pelo título e resumo e, posteriormente, foram lidos por inteiro apenas àqueles que apresentavam relação com o tema proposto para esta revisão. Resultados: Em relação à indução do diabetes mellitus, foram identificados 50 trabalhos e, quanto à indução da hipertensão arterial sistêmica foram apontados 3 trabalhos. Conclusão: o modelo animal mais utilizado são os ratos da linhagem Wistar e o método de indução mais frequente é o farmacológico.
Composição lipídica e proteica do leite humano pré e pós-pasteurização
Authors: FAVARETTO Meridiane , VIRCZOREK Anelise Ludmila , SILVA Claudinei Mesquita da , TEIXEIRA Jorge Juarez Vieira , PEDER Leyde Daiane de
Published: May 2017

A pasteurização é um processo que visa eliminar microrganismos presentes em alimentos, e sua utilização é imprescindível nos bancos de leite humano. Embora de grande importância, muitos estudos têm demonstrado que leva a uma alteração na constituição de proteínas, consideradas o principal nutriente construtor do corpo humano e também de lipídeos, que constituem a maior parte da reserva energética do organismo, sendo assim, são nutrientes essenciais nas primeiras alimentações do recém-nascido. Com isso, o objetivo da presente pesquisa foi determinar o teor de lipídeos e proteínas do leite humano pré e pós-pasteurização pelo método de Soxhlet e Kjeldahl, respectivamente. Para tanto, amostras aleatórias de leite humano foram cedidas por um Banco de Leite de Cascavel-PR e analisadas. Verificou-se diferença significativa (p<0,05) entre no conteúdo proteico (0,88 para 0,80) e lipídico (7,58 para 5,62) antes e após pasteurização.  Observa-se que a pasteurização, embora de grande importância, têm se mostrado um método que influencia negativamente na composição nutritiva do leite.
TECNOLOGIAS ENVOLVIDAS NA PROMOÇÃO DA SEGURANÇA DO PACIENTE NO PROCESSO DE MEDICAÇÃO: UMA REVISÃO INTEGRATIVA
Authors: Costa Jéssika Wanessa Soares , De Assis Jéssica Martinelli Martins , Melo Marjorie Dantas Medeiros , Xavier Suênia Silva de Mesquita , Melo Gabriela De Sousa Martins , Costa Isabelle Katherinne Fernandes
Published: May 2017

Este estudo buscou identificar na literatura as tecnologias existentes e seu uso na promoção da segurança do paciente no processo de medicação. Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa realizada nas bases de dados: Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde, Medical Literature Analysisand Retrieval System Online, Índice Bibliográfico Espanhol de Ciências da Saúde, Base de Dados de Enfermagem, PubMed Central, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Web Of Science e SciVerse Scopus, abrangendo artigos publicados entre 2013 e 2017. Vinte artigos internacionais compuseram a amostra final, sendo dez (50%) publicados no ano de 2014. Onze tecnologias foram identificadas, com prevalência das etapas de prescrição quatro (36,3%) e administração de medicamentos quatro (36,3%), sendo as tecnologias mais abordadas: Radio Frequency Identification, Computerized Physician Order Entry e Bar-Code-Assisted Medication Administration.
SEGURANÇA DO PACIENTE NO PROCESSO DE DOAÇÃO E TRANSPLANTE DE ÓRGÃOS E TECIDOS
Authors: Magalhães Aline Lima Pestana , Lanzoni Gabriela Marcellino de Melo , Knihs Neide Da Silva , Da Silva Elza Lima , Erdmann Alacoque Lorenzini
Published: May 2017

Objetivou-se apresentar aspectos inovadores para a prática profissional do enfermeiro, no que se refere ao diagnóstico de morte encefálica no processo de doação e transplante de órgãos e tecidos, abordando as interfaces entre a gerência do cuidado e a segurança do paciente. Enfatiza-se a padronização de processos, utilizada para promover agilidade, redução das perdas por parada cardíaca com aumento concomitante das doações reais, e diminuição do tempo entre o primeiro exame clínico e o explante. Permite que a equipe reconheça as anormalidades e faça as correções necessárias em tempo hábil. Assim, vislumbra-se que a segurança do paciente deve subsidiar as tomadas de decisão e intervenções de gestão, de modo a qualificar a prática de cuidado.