bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does Fall Removal of the Dairy Manure Sludge in a Storage Tank Reduce Subsequent Methane Emissions?
Authors: Baldé Hambaliou , VanderZaag Andrew C. , Burtt Stephen D. , Gordon Robert J. , Desjardins Raymond L.
Published: September 2016

When liquid manure is removed from storages for land application, “sludge” generally remains at the bottom of the tank. This may serve as an inoculum when fresh manure is subsequently added, thereby increasing methane (CH4) emissions. Previous pilot‐scale studies have shown that completely emptying storages can decrease CH4 emissions; however, no farm‐scale studies have been conducted to quantify the effect of sludge removal. In this study, a commercial dairy farm removed as much manure and sludge from their concrete storage as possible in the fall (∼2% by volume remained). Emissions of CH4 were measured during the following winter, spring, and summer, and compared with emissions measured the preceding 2 yr when most of the sludge had not been removed (∼14% of tank volume remained). Emissions were measured using a micrometeorological technique, utilizing open‐path CH4 lasers. Contrary to what was hypothesized, removing the majority of sludge in fall did not delay the onset of CH4 emissions and did not decrease emissions the following summer. In fact, annual CH4 emissions were ∼16% higher. It is possible that fall removal provided sufficient time for microbial dynamics to be restored before the following summer when emissions were high. Future farm‐scale research should examine the effect of spring (rather than fall) emptying for on‐farm CH4 mitigation in both concrete tanks and earthen storages.

Core Ideas

Pilot‐scale studies suggest that complete manure storage emptying reduces CH4 emissions.

The effect of fall sludge removal for on‐farm concrete tanks was evaluated.

Sludge removal in fall did not reduce subsequent CH4 emissions over the next 240 d.

Fall removal of sludge did not delay the onset of CH4 emissions in summer storage.

Methane fluxes increased with temperature in July.
Sorghum RILs Segregating for Stay‐Green QTL and Leaf Dhurrin Content Show Differential Reaction to Stalk Rot Diseases
Authors: Adeyanju Adedayo , Yu Jianming , Little Christopher , Rooney William , Klein Patricia , Burke John , Tesso Tesfaye
Published: September 2016

The association between postflowering drought tolerance and the stay‐green phenotype in sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] is well established. Recent studies link the stay‐green phenotype with levels of dhurrin and soluble sugars in the leaves. Postflowering drought response has always been associated with stalk rot resistance, especially charcoal rot. However, apart from the common knowledge that charcoal rot requires a dry environment, the mechanism governing these associations is not clear. The objectives of this study were to (i) determine the effects of major stay‐green (stg) quantitative trait loci (QTL) on response to infection by two stalk rot pathogens, Macrophomina phaseolina and Fusarium thapsinum, and (ii) examine the possible relationship between levels of dhurrin and soluble sugar in the leaves and response to stalk rot diseases. Fourteen genotypic groups derived from the Tx642 × Tx7000 recombinant inbred line (RIL) population carrying a combination stg QTL were evaluated under three environments in four replications. The results revealed that stg QTL have variable effects on severity of stalk rot diseases. Genotypes carrying either stg1 or stg3, or their combination stg1+3 expressed high levels of resistance to M. phaseolina. But, resistance to F. thapsinum required a combination of stg1 and stg3. Other stg QTL blocks, such as stg2 and stg4, did not have an effect on stalk rot resistance caused by either pathogen. Furthermore, stalk rot resistance had no significant association with levels of dhurrin and soluble sugars in the leaves.
High‐Throughput Phenotyping and Improvements in Breeding Cassava for Increased Carotenoids in the Roots
Authors: Belalcazar John , Dufour Dominique , Andersson Meike S. , Pizarro Mónica , Luna Jorge , Londoño Luis , Morante Nelson , Jaramillo Angélica M. , Pino Lizbeth , Becerra López‐Lavalle Luis A. , Davrieux Fabrice , Talsma Elise F. , Ceballos Hernán
Published: September 2016

Past research developed reliable equations to base selections for high β‐carotene on near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIR) predictions (100 genotypes d−1) rather than with high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) (<10 samples d−1). During recent harvest, CIAT made selections based on NIR predictions for the first time. This innovation produced valuable information that will help other cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) breeding programs. A total of 284 samples were analyzed with NIR and HPLC for total β‐carotene (TBC) and by the oven method for dry matter content (DMC). Results indicated that NIR reliably predicted TBC and DMC. In addition, 232 genotypes grown in preliminary yield trials (PYTs) were harvested at 8.5 and 10.5 mo after planting (one plant per genotype and age) and root quality traits analyzed (by NIR only). Repeatability of results at the two ages was excellent, suggesting reliable results from NIR. In contrast to previous reports, age of the plant did not influence carotenoids content in the roots. The availability of a high‐throughput NIR protocol allowed comparing results (for the first time) from seedling and cloned plants from the same genotype. Results showed very little relationship for DMC between seedling and cloned plants (R2 = 0.09). There was a much better association for TBC (R2 = 0.48) between seedling and cloned plants. It is postulated that variation in the environmental conditions when seedling and cloned plants (from the same genotype) may be responsible for these weak associations. Important changes in selection strategies have been implemented to overcome problems related to a lengthy harvesting season.
High‐Throughput Extraction of Insoluble‐Bound Ferulic Acid In Maize
Authors: Butts‐Wilmsmeyer Carrie J. , Bohn Martin O.
Published: September 2016

Ferulic acid is a hydroxycinnamic acid that possesses positive health benefits and plays a role in both pathogen and insect resistance in maize (Zea mays L.). Many protocols for the extraction of insoluble‐bound ferulic acid in maize use methods that are low‐throughput and are not conducive to analyzing the large number of samples used in field research or breeding programs. We examined two protocols for the extraction of insoluble‐bound ferulic acid that use small sample sizes typical of experiments where a large number of samples need to be analyzed. The main distinguishing feature between the two protocols is the inclusion of a starch digestion step in Protocol A to inhibit the swelling of intact starch when introduced to an alkali reagent. Our results indicate that the inclusion of a starch digestion step during the extraction of insoluble‐bound ferulic acid from maize is necessary if small sample sizes are used. The omission of the starch digestion step in Protocol B resulted in an average percent recovery of only 79.0% of the insoluble‐bound ferulic acid. Conversely, the inclusion of the starch digestion step in Protocol A allowed for the accurate and high‐throughput extraction of insoluble‐bound ferulic acid at lower cost than Protocol B.
Efficiency of Early Selection in Improving Biomass and Predicted Ethanol Yield in Switchgrass
Authors: Sykes Virginia R. , Allen Fred L. , DeSantis Alexandria C. , Saxton Arnold M. , Bhandari Hem S. , West Dennis R. , Hughes Eifion W. , Bobbitt Matthew E. , Benelli Victoria G.
Published: September 2016

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) takes 3 yr to reach maximum biomass yields, delaying selection and cultivar improvement. This study evaluated the efficiency of early selection in improving third‐year biomass and ethanol yields in lowland switchgrass. Fifty‐six full‐sib families were planted in Knoxville and Crossville, TN, with 1‐m spacing in a randomized complete block design. In 2012 to 2014, plants were evaluated for biomass yield, ethanol yield, and morphological traits at 8 wk after emergence and in years one through three. Trait means, efficiency of indirect selection, and genetic gain were calculated. Biomass yield differed significantly by year (92 g in yr 1, 1069 g in yr 2, and 1425 g in yr 3) while ethanol yield did not . Juvenile selection was ineffective. Biomass selection was most efficient using first‐year fall height with genetic gains per year 2.4 times those of direct selection on third‐year biomass. First‐year biomass and second‐year biomass, fall height, spring height, and tiller diameter also exhibited high efficiency (1.3 to 1.9). For ethanol yield, negative efficiency indicated selection for low first‐year height and low second‐year spring height, and tiller diameter would result in 1 to 1.3 times the genetic gain expected from direct selection on third‐year ethanol yield. Results indicate that early selection and indirect selection using morphological traits may speed yield improvement due to greater selection efficiency and higher genetic gains.
Development of an NDVI‐Based Nitrogen Rate Calculator for Cotton
Authors: Arnall D. Brian , Abit M. Joy M. , Taylor Randal K. , Raun William R.
Published: September 2016

The use and adoption of optical sensors to determine midseason nitrogen (N) application rates in cereal grain production has gained increasing acceptance by producers in the past decade; however, the technology has yet to impact mainstream cotton (Gossypium hirsutumL.) production. Overapplication of N in cotton leads to excessive growth and can result in a dramatic yield decrease. This study was designed to develop a sensor‐based cotton yield prediction model using normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) readings from an optical sensor, incorporate the model into an algorithm used to determine midseason N rates, and determine if N response can be predicted using NDVI values collected midseason. A GreenSeeker hand held sensor was used to measure NDVI from seven studies at Lake Carl Blackwell (LCB), Stillwater, OK, and Southwest Research Station (SWR), Altus, OK, from 2006 to 2010. Normalized difference vegetation index readings taken at white flower stage had a good correlation with final yield. Final yield prediction was improved when NDVI was normalized using cumulative growing degree day (CumGDD) measured between planting and sensing. Sorting NDVI by CumGDD to 940 to 1200 and 1400 to 1500 at LCB and SWR sites, respectively, extended the critical sensing window from match‐head square to white flower stages. This study showed that yield potential in cotton could be predicted within the season using NDVI, which confirms the potential for using sensor‐based N rate recommendations in cotton.
Genetic Analysis of Resistance to Soybean Mosaic Virus in PI 438307 Soybean Accession
Authors: Klepadlo Mariola , Chen Pengyin , Wu Chengjun
Published: September 2016

Soybean mosaic virus (SMV) is the most prevalent viral pathogen and economic threat to soybean production worldwide. Three independent genes harboring SMV resistance have been identified: Rsv1, Rsv3, and Rsv4. Although the resistance genes (R‐genes) have been found in some germplasm, usually they provide protection to some, but not all, viral strains. The objective of this research was to identify a new source of SMV resistance in Korean soybean accession PI 438307. The soybean genotype PI 438307 was crossed with susceptible parent ‘Essex’ (rsv), and differential parents PI 96983 (Rsv1), L29 (Rsv3), and V94‐5152 (Rsv4). F2 plants and F2:3 lines derived from all four cross combinations were screened with SMV‐G7 strain. Additionally, F2 plants obtainSed from PI 438307 (R) × Essex (S) were genotyped with two simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers on chromosome 2 (MLG D1b). Inheritance and allelic studies revealed that resistance to SMV in PI 438307 is controlled by a single dominant gene allelic to the Rsv4 locus. PI 438307 exhibited unique symptomology when compared to reported Rsv4 alleles in V94‐5152, PI 88788 and Beeson. PI 438307 was resistant to SMV‐G1 through G6 and resistant at seedling stages to SMV‐G7. Therefore, it was proposed that the new allele Rsv4‐v might be assigned to the SMV resistance in this soybean accession. Soybean sources carrying Rsv4 alleles are rare among the soybean germplasm and confer resistance to all or most SMV strains; therefore, this allele may be a good choice for breeding programs in the future.
Botanical Composition Prediction of Alfalfa–Grass Mixtures using NIRS: Developing a Robust Calibration
Authors: Karayilanli Elif , Cherney Jerome H. , Sirois Paul , Kubinec Diane , Cherney Debbie J.R.
Published: September 2016

Botanical composition of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.)–grass fresh and ensiled mixtures is a key parameter for assessing forage and diet quality as well as for managing mixed stands. Previous attempts to validate near‐infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) equations for estimating botanical composition have had mixed results. This study was conducted to develop a robust NIRS method to estimate botanical composition of binary alfalfa–grass mixtures. Alfalfa–grass samples were collected across New York State over four growing seasons, hand separated, and a subset were ensiled separately. Dry samples were coarsely ground, mixed in known proportions, and reground for analysis by NIRS at Dairy One Forage Laboratory, Ithaca, NY. Samples were mixed to range from 0 to 100% alfalfa for NIRS calibration, with a total of 741 individual samples from 3 yr used for calibration of three NIRS instruments and samples from a fourth year used for validation. Grass composition was predicted with good precision and accuracy showing biases of 2.49 and standard errors of prediction (SEP) of 5.06, with R2 of 0.972, using the equation developed across multiple instruments. With selection of a robust set of calibration samples over many environments, NIRS can be used to determine the botanical composition of fresh‐dried or ensiled‐dried alfalfa–grass samples, and replicate scans from multiple instruments can be combined to develop a single calibration that will perform with equal efficiency across different instruments.
Distribution and Properties of Podzolized Soils in the Northern Rocky Mountains
Authors: Valerio M.W. , McDaniel P.A. , Gessler P.E.
Published: September 2016

Core Ideas

Podzolization is a widespread pedogenic process in the Northern Rocky Mountains.

Podzolization is strongly influenced by terrain attributes and environmental gradients.

Northern Rocky Mountain landscapes are dominated by Spodosols, spodic intergrades, and Andisols.

Although not recognized on land system inventory maps, Spodosols have been documented in the volcanic ash–mantled landscapes of the Northern Rocky Mountains (Major Land Resource Area 43A). This study focuses on terrain attributes and environmental gradients as potential predictors of the distribution and properties of podzolized soils in the region. Seventy‐two forested sites were sampled using hierarchical randomization. Podzolization, as indicated by the presence of a spodic horizon, was observed at 43 sites. Soils meeting all or most taxonomic criteria for Spodosols were present at 26 sites. These Spodosols are concentrated above elevations of approximately 1100 m and on northerly aspects. In this mountainous region, more northerly aspects and increasing elevation serve as proxies for lower temperatures, increased effective precipitation, and greater snow cover, all of which promote podzolization. Spodosol E horizons are very strongly acidic, with pH values as low as 3.1 and Al saturation as high as 89% of the effective cation exchange capacity. Other soils exhibit evidence of podzolization as interpreted from subsurface increases in pyrophosphate‐ and oxalate‐extractable Fe and Al. However, most of these soils have darker and/or higher‐chroma colors in the surface mineral horizon and lack the albic–spodic morphology of Spodosols. Results indicate that podzolization is a widespread pedogenic process in the Northern Rocky Mountains and occurs under different climatic conditions, topographic settings, and parent materials than those of the upper Midwest and northeastern United States.
Non‐Newtonian Fluids in Action: Revisiting Hydraulic Conductivity and Pore Size Distribution of Porous Media
Authors: Abou Najm Majdi R. , Atallah Nabil M.
Published: September 2016

Core Ideas

Experimenting with non‐Newtonian fluids allows for improved media characterization.

This unfolds unique signatures of flow–pore interaction.

Those signatures can be used in the hydraulic characterization of the medium.

Model potential for unsaturated media characterization with only saturated flow experiments.

The model allows for obtaining multiple hydraulic conductivities for porous media.

Classic porous media flow experiments focus on water as the fluid of choice, thus limiting estimates of saturated hydraulic conductivity to a single averaged value that is rarely informative of the complexity of the pore structure. A theoretical framework is presented for a new method for experimentally estimating a functional pore structure of porous media using a combination of Newtonian and non‐Newtonian fluids. The proposed method builds an analog geometry of parallel capillary tubes (with tortuosity) that has the same functional behavior of real porous media in terms of saturated flow and porosity. The equivalent pore structure is formed by transforming results from N saturated infiltration experiments, comprised of water and N − 1 non‐Newtonian solutions, into a system of equations that yields N representative pore radii (Ri) (size distribution of tubes) and their corresponding number (derived from percent contribution to water flow, wi). This feature further allows estimating the soil water retention curve using only saturated experiments. We further show the ability of the proposed theoretical framework to infer additional information about flow in the porous medium as compared to what can be inferred from N (or even more) Newtonian fluids. This example shows the potential of this method and the ability of the proposed framework to extract additional information that an equal or larger number of experiments with only Newtonian fluids cannot extract.
Carrying spirit in song: music and the making of ancestors at Zezuru kurova guva ceremonies
Authors: Kyker Jennifer W.
Published: September 2016

Among speakers of the Zezuru dialect of Shona in central Zimbabwe, the kurova guva ceremony is held roughly a year after the funeral of an adult man or woman whose spirit is said to be wandering in the bush after death without regulated ties to its kin. Kurova guva is performed to call the spirit of the deceased back from this ambiguous position, transforming it into a recognized mudzimu ancestor. Musical performance is an integral part of ritual action at kurova guva, where song is used to summon the spirit of the deceased and carry it home, transforming the wandering spirit into a mudzimu ancestor.
On the musical patterning of sculpted words: exploring the relationship between melody and metre in a Somali poetic form
Authors: O'Dubhda Fiacha
Published: September 2016

Somalia has often been called a "nation of bards", and poetry is frequently considered to be the most important form of artistic expression and social commentary in Somali society, a point made clear by Andrzejewski and Lewis when they state that "the Somali poetic heritage is a living force intimately connected with the vicissitudes of everyday life" (1964:3). It is evident from existing literature that Somali poetry is a powerful force fulfilling a multiplicity of social roles; it is intrinsic to the fabric of social action itself, from the negotiation of inter-clan relationships to the accompaniment of camel watering, from commenting on issues of public policy to those of technological development. What is not so evident is that all Somali poems can also be carriers of melody. These melodic qualities of Somali poetry are first noted fleetingly in the travel writings of Richard Burton.
Teaching-learning processes in Muziki wa Injili in Dar es Salaam
Authors: Sanga Imani
Published: September 2016

This article is concerned with teaching-learning processes in Muziki wa Injili (Gospel Music) in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. It discusses two methods of teaching and learning that are commonly used in Muziki wa Injili, namely, imitation and peer-directed learning.
An environmental assessment on hydropower development in Lithuania
Authors: Jatautas Jaunius
Published: September 2016

Hydropower as a renewable energy source is a serious future alternative to organic fuel power and environmental protection. Its use is least damaging to the environment in comparison to thermal and nuclear power. Hydropower is a constant generating source and a type of energy that yields most return. Based on this approach, the article assesses the hydropower development, reveals the reasons behind the hindrance of renewable energy source development, evaluates the tendencies and development prospects, draws the conclusions and presents the recommendations. This article reflects the concept of the latest findings of scientific research and practical interface. Planning, design, construction and operation of hydropower facilities, must be determined on how they may affect the natural state of water bodies, it is imperative to analyze and assess the environmental protection effectiveness. Natural water bodies should not be modified without an environmental impact assessment
Adding value to satisficing decisions using TOPSIS in service provider selection problems
Authors: Matshonisa Seeletse Solly
Published: September 2016

Selection processes of credible candidates in competitions are often flawed. The flaws may be deliberate when there is corruption. In other cases the flaws occur because of the decision makers’ inadequacies. Many competitors do their best in developing exceptional proposals, but unfairness of the decision makers undermines these efforts. Ideally, undeserving candidates should be disqualified, and deserving ones be allowed to contest. Systematic methods should be used in the proposal evaluation, and the process should be verifiable. This paper discusses scientific methods proposed for use to select a criterion-based worthy competitor in service provider selection problems. The method is a technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS). TOPSIS is a mathematically-derived statistical method useful to offset the biases in the selection process. Features that address both added value and reduced costs are incorporated in the TOPSIS selection process. A numerical example is included to demonstrate TOPSIS fortes
Business implications of the falling cost of electricity
Authors: C. Edmunds John , Winrich Charles
Published: September 2016

Sharp declines in cost per kilowatt-hour of electricity generated by wind turbines and solar panels have opened up major shifts in cost and supply of electricity. Using elasticity of price and income to analyze scenarios of much cheaper electricity reveals economic impacts well outside the range that has dominated the debate until now. The methods and computations give a wide span of impacts, and those methods led to unexpected and provocative implications
Reliability of corporate environmental reports produced by listed South African companies
Authors: Nasiema Kamala Peter
Published: September 2016

The aim of this research is to evaluate the reliability of environmental reports produced by the Top 100 listed South African (T100LSA) companies. A content analysis of environmental reports contained in the Integrated Annual Reports (IARs), sustainability reports and companies’ corporate websites was conducted using a control list. The findings of the study reveal that in general, the environmental reports produced by the T100LSA companies are reliable as most companies’ reports have a statement from the top management, describe the organization’s structures in place at various levels to deal with environmental matters, as well as the initiatives undertaken to mitigate environmental impacts. In addition, most companies disclose their external recognition for environmental achievement or their involvement with external parties on environmental matters. Furthermore, most of the companies’ reports contain third party commentary and indicate that the companies have adopted the best practice in environmental performance management and reporting. Besides, most companies report in a balanced manner including both positive and negative information pertaining to risks faced and the opportunities missed or seized, as well as their environmental policy, mission, objectives and strategies. However, there was a need for improvement, as only a half of the companies’ environmental reports had an assurance statement from an independent party, which mostly failed to indicate the procedures performed by the assuror
Educational reforms and curriculum transformation in post-apartheid South Africa
Authors: Gumede Vusi , Biyase Mduduzi
Published: September 2016

Educational reforms and curriculum transformation have been a priority in South Africa since the establishment of the Government of National Unity in 1994. Education is critical in redressing the injustices of apartheid colonialism which created an inequitable and fragmented education system. Factors such as school access, governance, curriculum, teacher deployment and financial resources have also gone through the education policy mill. While relatively impressive progress is observed regarding legislative interventions, policy development, curriculum reform and the implementation of new ways of delivering education, many challenges remain. Key among the challenges relates to the quality of education, twenty two years since the dawn of democracy. To contribute to the debate on educational reforms and pertaining to the quality of education, the paper discusses the various curriculum reforms of South Africa’s education sector and provides a brief evaluation of the trends in policies affecting equity and quality in the South African education environment. The paper finds that the quality of education is critical for many reasons
Forecasting model and assessment of the innovative and scientific-technical policy of Ukraine in the sphere of innovative economy formation
Authors: Yurynets Zoryna
Published: September 2016

This research substantiates the expediency of introducing the instruments of neural network theory to the economic practice, since it appears to be a strong mathematical instrument and an alternative to the mathematical approaches currently known. The article suggests and presents a neural network model to forecast the innovative and scientific-technical development of the Ukrainian economy. The computerized modeling of the adapted neural network has been performed on the basis of Statistica Neural Networks (StatSoft Inc.) package. Taking into consideration the development of the leading countries of the world and Ukraine, this neural network model is based upon the indices reflecting basic results of the state social and economic, innovative, scientific and technical policy within the period of 2000-2013. The suggested technique allows determining the factors that have the greatest influence on the GDP of the country and predetermine its economic development. Among the considered factors, the greatest influence on the GDP growth is made by the amounts of Research and Development (R&D) financing. Not less important for the economic growth is the increase of investments in the basic capital. Among the factors, the least influence on GDP is made by the national budget expenditures on the innovative activity of enterprises. The received predictive data may provide the basis for working out a strategy of the innovative development of the country and regions, investment and innovative programs and budgets
Using DuPont analysis to assess the financial performance of the top 3 JSE listed companies in the food industry
Authors: Doorasamy Mishelle
Published: September 2016

This study attempts to measure the financial performance of the food industry taking the top three JSE listed companies Pioneer Foods, Tiger Brands and RCI for the period of 2013-2014. In order to achieve the objectives of this research, ratios such as return on equity (ROE), return on assets (ROA) have been calculated by applying the DuPont analysis. The DuPont analysis is an important tool to measure the operating performance of a firm (Sheela and Karthikeyan, 2012). The volatility of the stock market makes investment decisions a controversial issue for most investors. Investments of huge amounts of money need proper analysis in order to make an informed decision. Financial statements are indicators of the profitability and financial sustainability of the business. Ratios are tools used to quantify the risk element before making any strategic decisions, more especially, investment decisions. It has been reported to be one of the most important financial ratios, because it provides investors with a more comprehensive measure of performance (Demmer, 2015). A detailed financial analysis of all three companies using the DuPont system shows that investing in Tiger Brands would generate a higher return to shareholders than Pioneer Foods or RCI
The growth-IPRs nexus in OPEC member countries: an empirical investigation
Authors: Al-Mawali Nasser
Published: September 2016

This study employs a parsimonious model of economic growth to investigate the impact of intellectual property rights (IPRs) protection on the economic growth of Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) member countries. The growth model is estimated in the context of the Hausman-Taylor estimation technique in an annualized panel data framework. The principal finding suggests that IPRs per se are not an important factor in explaining the economic growth of OPEC member countries. However, the interaction between IPRs and trade has exerted a positive and significant impact on the economic growth of OPEC member countries
New evidence of short-run underpricing in Australian IPOs
Authors: Perera Wasantha , Kulendran Nada
Published: September 2016

The short-run market performance of initial public offerings (IPOs) indicates that the prices are often underpriced. This is widely accepted as a universal phenomenon. To find out whether Australian IPOs are underpriced, this paper analyzes the short-run market performance of 254 IPOs by industry, listing year and issue year. To measure the performance, the first-day returns are divided into the opening price primary market and the closing price secondary market, and the post-listing returns are also examined. The study found that, overall, Australian IPOs were underpriced by 25.47% based on abnormal returns and 26.43% on raw returns on the first-day primary market, which was statistically significant at the 1% level. However, analysis of the secondary market indicates that the Australian IPOs were overpriced by 1.55% and 1.54% on abnormal and raw returns, respectively, which was statistically significant at the 5% level. The examination of post-listing returns shows that Australian IPOs were underpriced based on cumulative abnormal returns (CARs) on the 3rd, 6th, and 10thdays by 24.63%, 24.06%, and 23.34%, respectively. The primary and post-listing analysis shows that IPOs in the industrial sector are more attractive to investors, whereas those in the chemical and materials sector are less attractive compared to other sectors. As far as the investors’ wealth is concerned, the study concludes that the short-run market performance analysis should consider both the first-day and post-listing returns
Ownership structure, organization stability and biotechnology company performance
Authors: Cheng Ting-Yi , Lai Hung-Cheng
Published: September 2016

In this paper, the authors use the method of quantile regression to analyze the effect of different ownership structure and organization stability on the performance of biotechnology company. Data from the 2004 and 2015 Taiwan listed biotechnology companies are the research samples to find out the relationship of ownership structure, organization stability and corporate performance. The results show that the ownership structure and the organization stability have a positive effect on firm performance
The effect of enforcement intensity on illegal insider trading volume: the case of Taiwan
Authors: Huang Han-Ching , Chang Jung-Tzu
Published: September 2016

In this paper, the authors examine the illegal insider trading volume and cumulative abnormal return by the relative variables of the amendment, the change of the securities price, the number of defendants, the penalty and the fine for insider who committed a crime, and the quality of concealed important information. Illegal insider trading is prohibited by the article 157-1 of Securities and Exchange Act in Taiwan. It has been amended three times to provide a sound and rigorous law and completely protect investors. The authors examine the illegal insider trading volume after the amendment to explore whether the Securities and Exchange Act is efficient enough to lower illegal insider trading. The authors find that the change of the securities price and the quality of concealed important information are the critical factors which affect the illegal insider trading volume and cumulative abnormal returns. Nevertheless, the relative variables of the amendment do not show significant effects
A proposed model for applying total quality management in Syrian banks: a case study in the industrial bank of Syria
Authors: Salman Ali , Samuel Mintah Ing. , Hes Tomáa , Haiyan Sulaiman Ing.
Published: September 2016

Syrian banks have witnessed an important change since 2002 with applying the advanced technology. Industrial bank played a crucial role in developing the industrial sector which provides about 25% to the GDP and this sector is the main engine of the national economy in Syria. This research aims to apply total quality management (TQM) to industrial banks of Syria. A random sample of 120 bank employees from higher and middle management were selected to investigate the current situation of TQM in the bank and to develop a new suitable TQM Model. The results show the levels of implementing TQM criteria in the industrial bank, and provide a proposed TQM Model with an implementation plan that could help other Syrian banks to apply TQM in an effective way
Exposure-based volatility: an application in corporate risk management
Authors: P. Fassas Athanasios , Rumenov Lyaskov Vasil
Published: September 2016

This study develops a non-traditional measure of risk, an exposure-based volatility, for the non-financial company and applies this measure to capture both the downside potential of cash-flows and the probability of requiring additional external financing under most foreseeable conditions. The empirical analysis is applied on a particular Bulgarian transport company and concludes that the proposed measure of exposure-based volatility manages to capture effectively the peaks and troughs in the variance of cash-flows, thus, significantly outperforming the historical standard deviation. This non-traditional downside risk estimate is by itself extremely useful as it contains significant information about a given company. Furthermore, it can be used as a valuable input in several risk management tools; in the current paper, a robust measure of CFaR and an original interpretation of Merton’s credit risk model are presented
Short-term demand forecast using a bank of neural network models trained using genetic algorithms for the optimal management of drinking water networks
Authors: Rangel Hector Rodriguez , Puig Vicenç , Farias Rodrigo Lopez , Flores Juan J.
Published: September 2016

Efficient management of a drinking water network reduces the economic costs related to water production and transport (pumping). Model predictive control (MPC) is nowadays a quite well-accepted approach for the efficient management of the water networks because it allows formulating the control problem in terms of the optimization of the economic costs. Therefore, short-term forecasts are a key issue in the performance of MPC applied to water distribution networks. However, the short-term horizon demand forecast in a horizon of 24 hours in an hourly based scale presents some challenges as the water consumption can change from one day to another, according to certain patterns of behavior (e.g., holidays and business days). This paper focuses on the problem of forecasting water demand for the next 24 hours. In this work, we propose to use a bank of models instead of a single model. Each model is designed for forecasting one particular hour. Hourly models use artificial neural networks. The architecture design and the training process are performed using genetic algorithms. The proposed approach is assessed using demand data from the Barcelona water network.
Improving the benefits of sewer condition deterioration modelling through information content analysis
Authors: Rokstad M. M. , Ugarelli R. M.
Published: September 2016

As urban sewer infrastructures age, it becomes increasingly important to make effective decisions to maintain the structural condition of the sewers at an acceptable level. To support the decision-making process, the utility manager can apply sewer deterioration models. However, the quality of the decision support from such models is dependent on the accuracy and reliability of the predictions, and previous research has shown that sewer deterioration predictions can be unreliable. In this paper it is shown, by numerical experiment and analysis of information content, how the accuracy of sewer deterioration models is inhibited by data heterogeneity. The data heterogeneity arises when the condition class is used as a response variable, because the condition class is an aggregation of different failure modes, and contains information that does not describe structural deterioration. Based on these findings, the paper suggests changes to be implemented in the condition classification standard, which can mitigate heterogeneity and improve prediction reliability. The suggestions for improvement include distinguishing between structural and functional defect codes, defining new condition metrics better suited for deterioration modelling, and registration of detailed defect codes to allow distinction of different failure mechanisms.
The effects of vertical and horizontal separations between pit latrine and hand dug well on contamination water by human fecal matter in Bomachoge Borabu, Kenya.
Authors: J. Nyabayo C. , J. Chemoiwa E. , L. Mwamburi , M. Jepkogei R. , Kimutai Albert
Published: September 2016

In developed world, water diseases are rare due to presence of efficient water supply and human wastes disposal systems (Jorge et al., 2010). However, in developing countries like Kenya, are characterized by inadequate basic resources such as safe drinking water and sewerage disposal facilities. This is due to rapid population growth. Consequently, use of pit latrines and hand dug wells are commonly used. There is concern that pit latrines may cause ecological and human health effects associated with pathogenic and chemical contaminations of ground water sources by hand dug wells. In Kenya, pit latrine disposal method could be a main source of ground water contamination. Contaminants from pit latrines excreta can potentially leach into groundwater, causing human health risks through contamination of hand dug well water. In this study we assessed vertical separation between the depths of pit latrines and hand dug wells and the horizontal separation between wells and pit latrines. These assessments were to establish the separation distance that can allow the pathogens to die off naturally or leach to underground water. A cross-sectional study design was used. The study areas of Bomachoge Borabu sub county were; Magenche, Bokimonge, Bombaba and Boochi, targeting hand dug wells and pit latrines usage within homesteads. Methods of data collection used in the study were questionnaires, measurements and laboratory water analysis. The results revealed that hand dug well water was significantly (p<0.05) contaminated with faecal coliforms in all study sites. In addition, usage of pit latrines and wells was significant (p<0.05) too. Over 60% of the population used both pit latrine system and hand dug wells for faecal disposal and as water source respectively. These results also showed that the minimum horizontal separation distance between pit latrine and hand dug well was 60 meters and vertical separation distance between depths of pit latrine and hand dug well was 1.1metre (45inches) at these distances no faecal coliforms were recorded. It was recommended that public health sensitization exercise be made in the study area.
Dermatoglyphics (finger prints) as predilection marker for impacted teeth: A randomized blind trial
Authors: Narang* Deepak , Das Aruna , Kumar Praveen , Sahani Madan , Tripathi Vivek , Sur Jaideep , Khan Fatima , Pandey Abhishek , Rathod Vanita , Desai Veena
Published: September 2016

Impacted teeth are teeth which remain embedded in the jaws past their normal eruption time or which have been blocked from their normal eruption path because of crowding of adjacent teeth or lack of enough jaw size to accommodate their eruption. Impacted teeth can cause a number of problems if left in place. Dermatoglyphics is the study of skin patterns and finger ridges that present on the fingers, toes and the soles. Fingerprint patterns of both hands were analyzed among ten patients with impacted teeth seen clinically and radiographically and equal number of healthy subjects. This study showed that tented arch pattern in index fingers of both the hands has been observed in impacted subjects thus serving as an indicator of genetic susceptibility in the incidence of dental impaction.
Effectiveness of alovera, glycerin, and cold application on superficial thrombophlebitis among patients
Authors: Yadav Chandrapal , Samuel Garima , Bano Heena , Mol Shruthy , Jaiswal Poonam , Sootrakar Rajeev , Singh Saraswati , Shukla* Priyanka
Published: September 2016

A comparative study to assess the effectiveness of Aloevera, glycerin and cold application on superficial thrombophlebitis among patients admitted in selected private hospitals of Bhopal city, Madhya Pradesh, India. The comparative descriptive design was used. Totally 90 samples were taken from the selected hospitals of Bhopal by using the demographic data collection method. The design used in research was pretest and posttest design. The comparative study was results like cold application was more effective as compared with aloevera and glycerin. In association with demographic variables there is a significant difference found between these aloevera, glycerin and cold application. Meanwhile the cold application was more effective while there is no difference between aloevera & glycerin.
Study of herbal cosmetics used in rural Jamtara district of Jharkhand, India.
Authors: Mondal Ashok Kumar , Mishra* P. K.
Published: September 2016

Rural population of Jamtara district of Jharkhand use different plant parts for their hair-care and face-care. They are dependent of natural products because the poverty ridden population can’t afford the expensive modern synthetic cosmetics for protecting their face, skin and hair. The most important plants are Aloe-vera, Acacia catechu (Kattha) Azadirachta indica, Centella asiatica, Madhuca latifolia and Lawsonia inermis etc.
Scrub typhus (Orientia tsutsugamushi), A rapidly spreading epidemic in Chennai - A standalone lab experience
Authors: C.S.* Sripriya , B. Shanthi , S. Arockia Doss , I. Antonie Raj , Priya Mohana
Published: September 2016

Scrub typhus (Orientia tsutsugamushi), is a strict intracellular bacterium which is reported to be a recent threat to parts of southern India. There is re-emergence of scrub typhus during the past few years in Chennai. Scrub typhus is an acute febrile illness which generally causes non-specific symptoms and signs. The clinical manifestations of this disease range from sub-clinical disease to organ failure to fatal disease. This study documents our laboratory experience in diagnosis of scrub typhus in patients with fever and suspected clinical symptoms of scrub typhus infection for a period of two years from April 2014 to April 2016 using immunochromatography and IgM ELISA methods. The study was conducted on 648 patients out of whom 188 patients were found to be positive for scrub typhus. Results also showed that pediatric (0 -12 years) and young adults (20 – 39 years) were more exposed to scrub typhus infection and female patients were more infected compared to male. The study also showed that the rate of infection was higher between September to February which also suggested that the infection rate is proportional to the climatic condition. Statistical analysis showed that the mean age of the patients in this study was 37.6, standard deviation was 18.97, CV % was 50.45.
Histopathological effects of coriander and cumin on arsenic exposed liver of Charles Foster Rats
Authors: Kant Karan Kumar , Lal* Namita
Published: September 2016

A wide exploration to achieve an easy and effective remedy for the chronic arsenic poisoning has been carried out in the present study. The study constitutes the treatment of arsenic treated rats with the ethanolic extracts of cumin seeds and coriander leaves respectively. Rats were fed with sodium arsenate through gavage method for 45 days and then were fed with ethanolic extracts of cumin seeds and coriander leaves. The rats were observed recovering themselves after exposure of ethanolic extracts of cumin seeds and coriander leaves which was confirmed by the histological studies on the liver of rats.
An overview of oral mucosa condition of shisha smoker
Authors: Amtha Rahmi , Kurniadi Ardianto
Published: September 2016

Shisha is a water pipe that tobacco extract and fruit scented burnt using coal. It produces the smoke through the vessel and inhaled using a hose with good taste. The culture of shisha smoking is popular in Midle East country that curently has been also entering Indonesia. The side effect of shisha smoking habit is still very rare reported. Aim of this study is to describe the oral mucosa condition of shisha user. A preliminary observasional study was conducted at several sisha cafe at South Jakarta. Under informed consent, subject with habit of tobacco and shisha smoker were included. Sociodemographic data (age, gender, duration, frequency of smoking), salivary flow rate and oral mucosa changes were documented. Eighteen subjects were recruited into this study. Most of shisha smoker was also tobacco smoker. Shisha was more practiced by male at  age (15-24 years old). The oral mucosa changes such as keratosis, melanosis, leukoedema, coated tongue, gingivitis and xerostomia were found on subject with habit of tobacco smoking habit only or both shisha and tobacco smoking. In conclusion apparently the shisha smoking habit may casue oral mucosa changes almost the same with tobacco smoking habit