bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Low-Dose Non-Caloric Sweetener Consumption on Gut Microbiota in Mice
Authors: Uebanso Takashi , Ohnishi Ai , Kitayama Reiko , Yoshimoto Ayumi , Nakahashi Mutsumi , Shimohata Takaaki , Mawatari Kazuaki , Takahashi Akira
Published: June 2017

Abstract: Non-caloric artificial sweeteners (NASs) provide sweet tastes to food without adding calories or glucose. NASs can be used as alternative sweeteners for controlling blood glucose levels and weight gain. Although the consumption of NASs has increased over the past decade in Japan and other countries, whether these sweeteners affect the composition of the gut microbiome is unclear. In the present study, we examined the effects of sucralose or acesulfame-K ingestion (at most the maximum acceptable daily intake (ADI) levels, 15 mg/kg body weight) on the gut microbiome in mice. Consumption of sucralose, but not acesulfame-K, for 8 weeks reduced the relative amount of Clostridium cluster XIVa in feces. Meanwhile, sucralose and acesulfame-K did not increase food intake, body weight gain or liver weight, or fat in the epididymis or cecum. Only sucralose intake increased the concentration of hepatic cholesterol and cholic acid. Moreover, the relative concentration of butyrate and the ratio of secondary/primary bile acids in luminal metabolites increased with sucralose consumption in a dose-dependent manner. These results suggest that daily intake of maximum ADI levels of sucralose, but not acesulfame-K, affected the relative amount of the Clostridium cluster XIVa in fecal microbiome and cholesterol bile acid metabolism in mice.
A Polish Study on the Influence of Food Neophobia in Children (10–12 Years Old) on the Intake of Vegetables and Fruits
Authors: Guzek Dominika , Głąbska Dominika , Lange Ewa , Jezewska-Zychowicz Marzena
Published: June 2017

Adhering to the recommended intake of fruits and vegetables is an important habit that should be inculcated in children, whereas food neophobia is indicated as one of the most important factors creating food preferences that may interfere. The aim of the presented study was to analyze the association between the food neophobia level and the intake of fruits and vegetables in children aged 10–12 years. The study was conducted among a group of 163 children (78 girls and 85 boys). The assessment of the food neophobia level was based on the Food Neophobia Scale (FNS) questionnaire and the assessment of the fruit and vegetable intake was based on the food frequency questionnaire. A negative correlation between the food neophobia level and the vegetable intake was observed both for girls (p = 0.032; R = −0.2432) and for boys (p = 0.004; R = −0.3071), whereas for girls differences in vegetable intake were observed also between various food neophobia categories (p = 0.0144). It may be concluded that children with higher food neophobia level are characterized by lower vegetable intake than children with lower food neophobia level. For fruits and juices of fruits and vegetables, associations with food neophobia level were not observed.
An Evaluation of the Binding Strength of Okra Gum and the Drug Release Characteristics of Tablets Prepared from It
Authors: Hussain Amjad , Qureshi Farah , Abbas Nasir , Arshad Muhammad , Ali Ejaz
Published: June 2017

The aim of this study is to evaluate the adhesion ability of okra gum, which is gaining popularity as a tablet binder. For this purpose, gum was extracted from okra pods, and the binding strength of different concentrations (1%, 3%, and 5%) was determined quantitatively. Additionally, naproxen sodium tablets were prepared by using okra gum as a binder and were evaluated for their properties including hardness, friability, disintegration time, and dissolution rate. The binding strength values were compared with that of pre-gelatinized starch, a commonly used tablet binder. The results from universal testing machine indicate that the binding strengths of all dispersions of okra increase as the concentration increases from 1% to 5% and ranges from 2.5 to 4.5 N, which are almost twice a high as those of pre-gelatinized starch. The tablets prepared with okra gum have shown good mechanical strength with hardness values of 7–8.5 kg/cm2 and a friability <1%, comparable to tablets prepared with starch. The disintegration time was longer (7.50 min with okra gum and 5.05 min with starch paste), and the drug release from these tablets was slower than the formulations with starch. The higher binding ability of okra gum probably linked with its chemical composition as it mainly contains galactose, rhamnose, and galacturonic acid. This study concludes that okra gum is a better binder than pre-gelatinized starch, it might be explored in future for introduction as a cost-effective binder in the pharmaceutical industry.
An Improved Aerosol Optical Depth Retrieval Algorithm for Moderate to High Spatial Resolution Optical Remotely Sensed Imagery
Authors: Zhong Bo , Wu Shanlong , Yang Aixia , Liu Qinhuo
Published: June 2017

To extract quantitative land information accurately and monitor the air pollution at city scale from moderate to high spatial resolution (MHSR) with a resolution no coarser than 30 m, optical remotely sensed imagery and aerosol parameters, especially aerosol optical depth (AOD), are a necessary step. In this paper, we introduce a new algorithm that can effectively estimate the spatial distribution of atmospheric aerosols and retrieve surface reflectance from moderate to high spatial resolution imagery under general atmosphere and land surface conditions. This algorithm has been improved in the following three aspects: (i) it has been developed for most of the moderate to high spatial resolution remotely sensed imagery; (ii) it can be applied to all kinds of land surface types including bright surface; and (iii) it is completely automatic. This algorithm is therefore suitable for operational applications. The derived AOD in Beijing from Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM), Landsat Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus (ETM+), and Huan Jing 1 (HJ-1/CCD) data is validated with AErosol Robotic NETwork (AERONET) ground measurements at Beijng and Xianghe stations.
Analysis of the Performance of Vacuum Glazing in Office Buildings in Korea: Simulation and Experimental Studies
Authors: Cho Soo , Kim Seok-Hyun
Published: June 2017

Window performance in buildings is very important for energy saving. Many efforts have been made towards saving energy in buildings, and research has focused attention on enhancing the thermal performance of windows. Vacuum glazing has attracted much interest as a means of enhancing the thermal performance of windows by strengthening insulation performance. However, the performance of vacuum glazing differs based on various component combinations, therefore, further study on vacuum glazing is needed. In this paper, through simulations, the authors confirmed the heat transfer value (U-value) of the vacuum glazing composed of various combinations (glass type, number of layers, interval of pillar, etc.). A physical test of vacuum glazing was also performed using standard test methods of windows and the U-value of the vacuum glazing by various intervals of the pillar position was confirmed. The simulation revealed a U-value for vacuum glazing of 0.682–1.466 W/m2·K as per the interval of the pillar position, the performance of solar heat gain, and visible light transmission. The U-value of the double vacuum glazing was calculated as 0.607–1.154 W/m2·K and was similar regardless of the interval of pillar position, the performance of solar heat gain, and visible light transmission. Based on the results of the energy simulation, in the case of a used low U-value of vacuum glazing, the heating and cooling energy consumption in buildings decreased by 2.46%, than when low-e glass and argon gas filled layers were used in windows. Furthermore, in double vacuum glazing, the heating and cooling energy consumption in buildings decreased by 3.91%.
Characterization and Temperature Dependence of Arctic Micromonas polaris Viruses
Authors: Maat Douwe , Biggs Tristan , Evans Claire , Van Bleijswijk Judith , Van der Wel Nicole , Dutilh Bas , Brussaard Corina
Published: June 2017

Global climate change-induced warming of the Artic seas is predicted to shift the phytoplankton community towards dominance of smaller-sized species due to global warming. Yet, little is known about their viral mortality agents despite the ecological importance of viruses regulating phytoplankton host dynamics and diversity. Here we report the isolation and basic characterization of four prasinoviruses infectious to the common Arctic picophytoplankter Micromonas. We furthermore assessed how temperature influenced viral infectivity and production. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the putative double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) Micromonas polaris viruses (MpoVs) are prasinoviruses (Phycodnaviridae) of approximately 120 nm in particle size. One MpoV showed intrinsic differences to the other three viruses, i.e., larger genome size (205 ± 2 vs. 191 ± 3 Kb), broader host range, and longer latent period (39 vs. 18 h). Temperature increase shortened the latent periods (up to 50%), increased the burst size (up to 40%), and affected viral infectivity. However, the variability in response to temperature was high for the different viruses and host strains assessed, likely affecting the Arctic picoeukaryote community structure both in the short term (seasonal cycles) and long term (global warming).
Soil Water and Phreatic Evaporation in Shallow Groundwater during a Freeze–Thaw Period
Authors: Miao Chunyan , Chen Junfeng , Zheng Xiuqing , Zhang Yongbo , Xu Yongxin , Du Qi
Published: June 2017

The exchange between shallow groundwater and soil water is unusually strong during freeze-thaw periods. The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of four different groundwater table depths (GTDs) and two soil textures on soil water moisture migration and phreatic evaporation during a freeze-thaw period using lysimeters. The results show that a high-moisture zone (HMZ) formed at a depth of 25–35 cm for sandy loam with a soil moisture content of 52%, while no obvious HMZ formed for fine sand when the GTD was 0.5 m. When the GTD was 2.0 m, a HMZ formed at a depth of 50–70 cm for sandy loam at the highest soil moisture content of 22%, while a HMZ formed at a depth of 60–80 cm for fine sand with a soil moisture content of 10%. The cumulative phreatic evaporation increased by a power function on freezing days during the freezing period. The total phreatic evaporation for sandy loam declined linearly with the increasing of GTD, and with the largest evaporation value of 73.6 mm for fine sand when the GTD was 1.0 m during the freeze-thaw period. The research would be significant for water resource assessment, the conversion of farmland water, and the prevention of saline land.
L’inégal accès aux stages des jeunes en baccalauréat professionnel
Authors: Dagot Céline , Rey Claudie
Published: June 2017

La réalisation de stages en entreprise conditionne l’obtention du baccalauréat professionnel et mobilise des ressources spécifiques de la part des lycéens concernés, en majorité issus de milieux populaires. Le stage constitue à la fois un enjeu scolaire et un enjeu de professionnalisation. Cet article montre que si l’origine sociale, la densité des offres des entreprises locales et l’accompagnement par l’institution scolaire influencent l’accès et le maintien en stage, le rôle le plus significatif est joué par le réseau familial. Construite comme un support de relations informelles utilisées stratégiquement pour accéder aux entreprises, la mobilisation du réseau familial est une donnée primordiale. En revanche, son absence peut entraver le déroulement du parcours scolaire.
À l’école de la ville
Authors: Rivière Clément
Published: June 2017

Cet article s’appuie sur une enquête par entretiens conduite auprès de parents (n = 88) à Paris et à Milan pour mettre en lumière le rôle que joue l’institution scolaire dans le processus de socialisation urbaine des enfants. En explorant le volet urbain des effets socialisateurs de l’expérience scolaire, il montre notamment comment les choix scolaires des familles constituent l’un des ressorts de la différenciation sociale de la socialisation à la ville et au quartier, contribuant en dernière analyse à produire des inégalités entre les enfants.
Politiser sa trajectoire, démocratiser les savoirs
Authors: Brusadelli Nicolas
Published: June 2017

Appréhendée par l’étude des sessions de formation qui y préparent, la pratique de la « conférence gesticulée » apparaît au croisement des champs théâtral, académique et militant. Les dispositifs qui constituent ces formations, dont les principes et les outils sont empruntés au monde de l’animation socioculturelle, enjoignent d’« incarner » les savoirs académiques pour en proposer un usage militant. Ce nouvel espace d’intermédiation culturelle, ouvert sous la bannière de l’éducation populaire, tend ainsi à faire exister celle-ci comme une entreprise de politisation issue des savoir-faire de l’animation.
Être formé à aider un proche atteint de schizophrénie Réflexion à partir d’un retour d’expérience
Authors: Davtian Hélène , Lamotte Christian
Published: June 2017

Articulant l’apparition de la notion d’aidant aux évolutions du système de santé, les auteurs montrent que son usage représente un véritable changement de paradigme concernant la représentation des familles de patients schizophrènes et que la notion s’inscrit dans une perspective de gestion de la maladie mentale plus que dans une vision thérapeutique. À partir d’un retour d’expérience sur la participation à un groupe de psycho-éducation dédié à l’entourage des patients, les auteurs montrent les questions particulières qui concernent la notion d’aidant familial dans le champ de la psychiatrie. Ils préconisent que l’accompagnement de l’entourage familial, dans le contexte du déplacement des soins de l’hôpital vers le domicile, ne se limite pas à la formation de l’aidant familial, mais prenne en compte la singularité des situations et du groupe familial.
Une expérience clinique auprès d’aidants de patients atteints de la maladie d’Alzheimer survivants de la Shoah Un soin auprès de patients « doublement cachés »
Authors: Feldman Marion , Hammami Sarah
Published: June 2017

Cet article traite d’une expérience clinique auprès d’aidants conjoints de patients atteints de la maladie d’Alzheimer. Patients et conjoints aidants ont été des enfants juifs cachés pendant la Shoah. Ces interventions s’inscrivent dans le cadre des activités d’une association juive (l’ ose ). La maladie d’Alzheimer se caractérise par des troubles de la mémoire effaçant les souvenirs les plus récents et réveillant les plus anciens parmi lesquels les souvenirs infantiles. Le réveil de ces souvenirs et les attitudes qui les accompagnent entraînent des bouleversements familiaux, en particulier dans le couple. Il est question ici des ébranlements au sein du couple quand ses membres partagent une histoire infantile commune. La réactivation des souvenirs liés à l’évolution de la maladie chez l’un entraîne chez l’autre la même réactivation par écho. Le soin consistant en des visites à domicile permet un travail clinique auprès de l’aidant, patient « doublement caché », dont les effets lui sont bénéfiques, ainsi que pour son couple et sa famille.
Analyse des premiers entretiens de couple Cadre et proposition clinique
Authors: Dupré La Tour Monique
Published: June 2017

Les premiers entretiens avant l’éventuelle mise en place d’une thérapie de couple constituent une rencontre décisive qui permet de répondre à plusieurs interrogations : pour commencer, doit-on réellement envisager une psychothérapie de couple analytique ou faire d’autres propositions cliniques ? À travers un cas clinique tiré de sa propre expérience, l’auteur s’arrête sur les éléments à prendre en compte au cours des premières rencontres, qui sont loin de se cantonner à une entrée en matière.
La troisième vague des thérapies systémiques : la thérapie familiale centrée sur la régulation émotionnelle
Authors: Duriez Nathalie
Published: June 2017

Nous présentons un modèle de psychothérapie familiale systémique, centrée sur les stratégies de régulation émotionnelle. Notre hypothèse est qu’en axant notre travail sur la régulation des émotions des différents membres de la famille, nous aurons une meilleure compréhension des effets de cette régulation sur l’ensemble de la famille et la place de la régulation émotionnelle dans la chaîne circulaire des interactions intrafamiliales. Une recherche-action menée auprès de trente familles permet de dégager des premiers résultats sur les effets de l’agression verbale, la suppression expressive, le déni, la rumination et la réévaluation cognitive. Des patterns de régulation émotionnelle caractérisent les familles de la même façon que les patterns transactionnels décrits par la première systémique ou les croyances partagées décrites par la deuxième systémique. Nous pensons que la réflexion sur la régulation émotionnelle va dans le sens de l’essor d’une troisième systémique.
Learning Groups in MOOCs: Lessons for Online Learning in Higher Education
Authors: Mayende Godfrey , Prinz Andreas , Isabwe Ghislain Maurice Norbert , Muyinda Paul Birevu
Published: June 2017

when there is interaction within online learning groups, meaningful learning is achieved. Motivating and sustaining effective student interactions requires planning, coordination and implementation of curriculum, pedagogy and technology. For our aim to understand online learning group processes to identify effective online learning group mechanisms, comparative analysis was used on a massive open online course (MOOC) run in 2015 and 2016. Qualitative (interaction on the platform) and quantitative (survey) methods were used. The findings revealed several possible ways to improve online learning group processes. This paper concludes that course organization helped in increasing individual participation in the groups. Motivation by peers helped to increase sustainability of interaction in the learning groups. Applying these mechanisms in higher education can make online learning groups more effective.
Industrial Leadership that Inspires Managerial Communication as an Emerging Pedagogical Focus in Engineering
Authors: Lappalainen Pia Helena
Published: June 2017

To explore the characteristics of effective industrial leadership, this work embarked on a quantitative effort to investigate requirements posed on leaders. Contrary to previous competence-based studies, the present work examined leader qualities more broadly through substantive knowledge, personality traits, socio-emotive skills, cultural awareness, and ethics and values. A particular aim was to conceptualize and operationalize effective leader behavior in industries to identify relevant and targeted foci for engineering pedagogy. Statistical analysis and factor analysis of the data from 503 respondents on 81 leader traits or skills shows that leadership that elicits positive organizational outcomes is founded on such leader personality dimensions as reliability, and such socio-emotive skills as self-leadership, emotional stability, inspiration and assertive communication.
Application of Novikov Gears, Gear Processing Techniques and Enhanced Possibilities of their Production
Authors: Silich A.A. , Ishkina E.G.
Published: June 2017

The advantages of using cylindrical Novikov gears are reviewed and compared with involute gearing. The possibility of accurate forming cylindrical Novikov gear wheels is theoretically determined. Rational modes of shaving gear-tooth finishing of wheels are empirically established. We propose the organization of Novikov gears production with a given quantity of controlled size tolerance.
On the Peculiarities of the Circular Cutter Geometry Applied for Cutting the Wheels of Novikov’s Gearings
Authors: Silich A.A. , Nekrasov R.Yu. , Zinchenko A.
Published: June 2017

The authors determine the tolerance ranges of the shift of the basic rack tooth profile of the tool having the form of a gear wheel (shaver, honing wheel, knurling tool) used for cutting the gear wheels of cylindrical Novikov’s gearings. The tolerance range was obtained proceeding from the condition of the edges of regression formation, width of the topland, contact ratio and permissible width of the toothed rim of the tool. The obtained recommendations were used and can be used for designing instruments for machining the Novikov’s gearing wheels.
Heat-Resistant Porous Composite Based on Ordinary Clay for Thermal Insulation of Hot Surfaces
Authors: Beregovoi V.A. , Beregovoi A.M.
Published: June 2017

Compositions of porous compounds (density 300 to 500 kg/m3) for thermal insulation of hot surfaces up to 1300oC were developed. Ordinary clay (at a clinkering temperature of 1150...1200oC), was chosen as a main substance for structure formation. The increasing thermo-resistance fraction of a ceramic matrix composite was obtained via embedding a refractory clay and dinas fillers into compositionб as well as by means of optimizing the relationship «ordinary clay – high aluminous cement», for which the formation of additional amount of mullite phase is observed when first heating of material.
Improvement of Truss Bearing Capacity by Means of Rhombic Pipes
Authors: Marutyan A.S. , Chernov P.S. , Orobinskaya V.N. , Galdin E.V.
Published: June 2017

The paper reveals prospects of using rhombic profile pipes with the purpose to update supporting structures on the base of the carried out examination of nodes. The acceptable accuracy and simplicity of the calculated rhombic cross-sections in terms of the approximate method was shown. Two new technical solutions to lattice structures were given which further improvement of their technical and economic characteristics. Consumption of construction material in implementing these solutions is reported on the example of roof trusses.
Processing of Industrial Metallurgical Wastes as the Basis of Manufacturing Technology Welding Fluxes and Additives NIM1
Authors: Kozyrev N.A. , Kryukov R.E. , Kozyreva O.A. , Gizatulin R.A. , Valueva A.V.
Published: June 2017

Presented are the results of the use of metallurgical wastes as constituents of welding fluxes. On the basis of fine particle gas purification in aluminum production, a carbon fluoride additive (FD-UFS) has been designed for welding fluxes which allows for manufacturing of steel constructions of northern execution with improved mechanical properties of welded joints. It is shown that the introduction of FD-UFS to fluxes AN-348, AN-60 and AN-67 increases the range of the required mechanical properties. Composition and manufacturing technology has been developed for a new welding flux with application of slag from silicomanganese production. Fractional composition of the flux has been selected. A comparative assessment of the mechanical properties of the developed flux with widely used flux AN-348 (GOST 9087-81) showed that the mechanical properties of the new flux are much greater. It has been determined that the introduction of flux additive FD-UFS in the amount of 2-8 % significantly increases the value of toughness KCV at a temperature of minus 20 °C.
Determination of Parameters of Endurance Limit Distribution Law of Material by the Methods of Nonparametric Statistics and Kinetic Theory of High-Cycle Fatigue
Authors: Syzrantseva Ksenia , Syzrantsev Vladimir
Published: June 2017

The paper considers the first developed algorithm of processing the data of specimen life tests based on the kinetic theory of mechanical fatigue and methods of nonparametric statistics. It makes it possible to determine the distribution density function of the material endurance limit. Implementation of the algorithm is illustrated on example of processing the data obtained in fatigue tests of steel 50 specimens.
Mathematical Models for Calculation of Crack Resistance of Composite Materials
Authors: Koryagin Sergey I. , Sharkov Oleg V. , Velikanov Nikolay L.
Published: June 2017

Crack resistance is an important parameter determining the carrying capacity and durability of composite materials in which as a binding element apply adhesive compositions. Estimation of crack resistance is usually carried out using an energy criterion – specific energy of crack propagation. Existing mathematical models to determine the value of crack resistance do not always give reliable results, because they can contain several dependent variables. In the article the mathematical models of the two types for calculation of crack propagation energy, which includes only one independent parameter, which needs to be defined experimentally are received. For the mathematical model of type I on the experimental setup it is necessary to define value of bending moment at which the formation of crack. Use of mathematical model of II type does not demand experimental setup as independent parameter is the radius of curvature of the bent beams.
Improving Dimensional Accuracy of Turning on CNC Equipment
Authors: Nekrasov R.Yu. , Soloviev I.V. , Starikov A.I. , Bekareva O.V.
Published: June 2017

The authors propose a solution to the problem of increasing dimensional accuracy in turning on CNC equipment by replacing the original geometric model of the workpiece in the model taking into account elastic deformation force occurring in the technological system under the action of cutting forces.
Dynamics of trade between the formal sector and informal traders
Authors: Ngiba Cyril Nhlanhla , Dickinson David , Whittaker Louise , Beswick Claire
Published: June 2017

The informal sector in South Africa is a significant, but not well understood phenomenon. One important question relates to the nature of the relationship between the formal and informal sector. This article uses Porter’s five forces model to interrogate the linkages between informal fruit and vegetable traders in the Natalspruit Market (Ekurhuleni) and their formal suppliers, primarily the Johannesburg Fresh Produce Market. While the threat of new products is low, the street traders’ position is weakened by the threat of new entrants, consumer bargaining power and lack of cooperation among street traders. In relation to supplier power, we conclude that while this varies according to a number of factors, the formal sector is dominant over informal fruit and vegetable sellers in this market. This finding rests primarily on the observation that, because of their fragmentation, the informal traders’ collective buying power is not being used in the same way as large formal retailers of fruit and vegetables to obtain better terms of trade with the formal economy supplier.
A weighted linear combination ranking technique for multi-criteria decision analysis
Authors: Jyh-Rong Chou
Published: June 2017

Multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) is an alternative approach, which provides a way to systematically structure and analyse complex decision problems. This study presents a novel method of applying the weighted linear combination ranking technique (WLCRT) to MCDA. The proposed WLCRT method is based on the linear combinations of matrix algebra calculations. It has distinct advantages in preference modeling, weight elicitation, and aggregation performance. In this method, the decision matrix of preferences is constructed using a 7-point Likert scale. The weights of criteria are elicited from the proximity matrix of preference relations using the eigenvector method. Then, the weighted generalised means are used to aggregate preference information as well as to rank the order of decision alternatives. The WLCRT method can flexibly reflect different decision attitudes for the decision maker. It is both technically valid and practically useful, and can be used in dealing with multiple criteria analysis problems involving ranking of alternatives.
No creative person is an island: Organisational culture, academic project-based creativity, and the mediating role of intra-organisational social ties
Authors: Oerlemans Leon AG , Kessel Frien Van , Stroe Saskia Van
Published: June 2017

This paper examines the relationship between perceptions of organizational culture, academics’ social embeddedness, and their creative paper project output. It argues that the extent to which researchers working on paper projects are socially embedded by having social ties with colleagues inside and outside their academic department (but within the same university) is a causal step linking organizational values and norms to creative outputs. This study, however, does not find support for the proposed mediating effects. Instead, results indicate that three organizational culture dimensions – i.e. performance orientation, environmental orientation, and innovation support – affect employees’ creative project output through their social embeddedness outside the department (but within their own university). As the organizational culture and social embeddedness of employees outside the department are both contextual factors that (either indirectly or directly) matter for the generation of creative project outputs by researchers, this study concludes that “no creative person and no project is an island”.
A first step towards service-dominant logic as a new approach to overcome challenges in business intelligence
Authors: Clavier Pamela , Lotriet Hugo , Van Loggerenberg Johan
Published: June 2017

High expectations are set for Business Intelligence (BI), yet it fails to consistently deliver accordingly: there are numerous reports of BI challenges and failures. Existing approaches to address BI challenges are largely found to be ineffective, highlighting the need for a new approach. This paper examines how BI is perceived or understood and establishes that, firstly, BI is inherently grounded in Goods-Dominant (G-D) logic and secondly, that this can be linked to the challenges that are experienced within BI. A recommendation is made for a shift to Service-Dominant (S-D) logic as a new avenue of exploration to assist in overcoming BI’s prevailing challenges. Identifying the inherent G-D logic in BI provides the first step necessary in making this shift. Research findings are based on an interpretive case study of a South African Banking institution as well as a literature review.
Smartphone Applications - Idea sourcing, and app development: Implications for firms
Authors: Vigar-Ellis Debbie , Bredican John
Published: June 2017

With the dramatic increase in smartphone usage and the consequent increase in applications (apps) for these smartphones, organisations are constantly looking for new apps to offer customers as well as employees.  Information Systems (IS) departments of organisations have traditionally been tasked with the acquisition and/or development of such information technologies within organisations.  This research aimed to determine from IS managers, the smartphone app usage in firms, the sources of app ideas and the locations for app development.  It also investigated various aspects of the success or otherwise of the development process.  Results indicate that while most ideas for apps currently come from IS and marketing departments within the organisation, and development of apps is also done mainly within the organisation , these development strategies are not necessarily the most effective.  Managerial implications are discussed.
Employee engagement: The effects of work-home/home-work interaction and psychological conditions
Authors: Rothmann Sebastiaan , Baumann Candice
Published: June 2017

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between work-home and home-work interference, psychological conditions and employee engagement. A cross-sectional survey design was used. The participants were 292 employees of a uranium mine in Namibia residing in towns distant from their workplace. The following measuring instruments were used: Survey Work-Home Interaction – Nijmegen, Psychological Conditions Scale and Employee Engagement Questionnaire. Negative work-home interaction (work-home/home-work spillover) was negatively related to psychological meaningfulness, psychological availability, and employee engagement. Positive work-life interaction (work-home/home-work interaction) was positively related to psychological meaningfulness, psychological availability, and employee engagement. The study builds on the work-life interaction literature by showing that negative and positive interactions indirectly affect employee engagement via psychological meaningfulness and psychological availability.
The relationship between marketing intelligence and strategic marketing
Authors: Venter Peet , Jansen van Rensburg Mari
Published: June 2017

Despite the importance attached to MI and other marketing information functions, surprisingly few studies have explicitly examined the relationship between MI and strategic marketing decision-making. This article reports on a study conducted with the aim of determining the relationship between marketing intelligence (MI) and strategic marketing in South African organisations. A quantitative survey was conducted among 166 South African marketing decision-makers. The findings suggest a substantial gap between the importance and availability of key types of MI. Marketing decision-makers found the traditional MI and marketing tools of great value in supporting marketing decision-making, but the value of several of the newer MI tools and technologies was less clear. An analysis of MI practices suggested that MI quality and particularly information and communication technology (ICT) support for MI are areas requiring further attention.
Recent internal migration and labour market outcomes: Exploring the 2008 and 2010 national income dynamics study (NIDS) panel data in South Africa
Authors: Mbatha Nhlanhla Cyril , Roodt Joan
Published: June 2017

We began with the premise that South African recent migrants from rural to urban areas experience relatively lower rates of participation in formal labour markets compared to local residents in urban communities, and that these migrants are overrepresented in the informal labour market and in the unemployment sector. This means that rural to urban migrants are less likely than locals to be found in formal employment and more likely to be found in informal employment and among the unemployed. Using perspectives from Development Economics we explore the South African National Income Dynamics Study (NIDS) panel datasets of 2008 and 2010, which only provide a perspective on what has happened between 2008 and 2010. We find that while migrants in general experience positive outcomes in informal labour markets, they also experience positive outcomes in formal markets, which is contrary to expectations. We also find that there are strong links between other indicators of performance in the labour market. Earned incomes are closely associated with migration decisions and educational qualifications (e.g. a matric certificate) for respondents between the ages of 30 and 60 years. The youth (15 to 30 years old) and senior respondents (over the age of 60) are the most disadvantaged in the labour market. The disadvantage is further reflected in lower earned incomes. This is the case even though the youth are most likely to migrate. We conclude that migration is motivated by both push (to seek employment) and pull (existing networks or marriage at destination) factors. For public policy, the emerging patterns – indicative and established – are important for informing strategies aimed at creating employment and developing skills for the unemployed, migrants and especially the youth. Similar policy strategies are embodied in the National Development Plan (NDP), the National Skills Development Strategy (NSDS), etc.
The association among the seven elements of the black economic empowerment score and market performance
Authors: Van der Merwe Cara Maria , Ferreira Petri
Published: June 2017

The black economic empowerment (BEE) score consists of seven elements, namely ownership,management control, employment equity, skills development, preferential procurement, enterprisedevelopment and socio-economic development. The purpose of this study is to establish whether anassociation exists between an entity’s BEE elements and its share returns in the short term.Based on prior literature, it appears that the market reacts positively to an announcement of a BEE deal,although the literature also indicates that an entity’s BEE score, which includes all seven elements of theBEE score, bears a negative relationship to its share returns. Therefore the association between the variousBEE elements and share returns needs to be investigated. The study uses a multivariate regressionanalysis that controls for factors influencing share returns. The study includes the BEE element data asobtained from the survey of the top empowerment companies carried out by Empowerdex/Financial Mail forthe period 2005 to 2011.The results of this study indicate that a significant positive association exists between the managementcontrol element of the BEE score and the entity’s share returns. Furthermore, a significant negativeassociation exists between the ownership and preferential procurement elements of an entity and its sharereturns. This study contributes to the literature on BEE in the accounting and finance field in South Africa aswell as enhances the understanding and effect of BEE compliance through implementation of the genericscorecard as required by the 2007 codes of good practice. The results of this study would be of interest togovernment policy analysts, investors and managers.
African entrepreneurs: An analysis of their motivation for starting their own business
Authors: Mitchell BC
Published: June 2017

This study analyses the motivation of entrepreneurs for starting a business.  More specifically, it aims to identify whether entrepreneurs have common  motives for starting their own business, and whether men and women have  different reasons for becoming entrepreneurs. A motivation scale and openended  questions were used to measure motivation on a sample of more than 100  entrepreneurs. The results of a factor analysis indicate that entrepreneurs have  various reasons for starting a business, and are primarily motivated by the needs  for independence, material incentives and achievement.
Countercyclical fiscal policy in South Africa: Role and iImpact of automatic fiscal stabilisers
Authors: Swanepoel JA , Schoeman NJ
Published: June 2017

As actual budget balances reflect both cyclical developments and discretionary measures, they are not very useful when seeking to assess the orientation of underlying fiscal policy and possible structural imbalances in the budget balance. The influence of fluctuations in economic growth on the government’s budget balance can be examined by decomposing the actual budget into a cyclical and a structural or cyclically adjusted component. The former component shows the effect on the government budget of cyclical fluctuations in economic activity, the latter reflects what the budget balance would be if economic activity were at its trend level. This paper calculates the extent to which fiscal policy stabilises output fluctuations in South Africa and estimates the cyclically adjusted budget balance of the consolidated general government as an alternative fiscal indicator that can contribute to more effective fiscal policy and fiscal analysis.
Book Review - Famine in Africa − Causes, responses and prevention
Authors: Von Braun J , Teklu T , Webb P
Published: June 2017

In this important book the authors present the results of field work and other research from different parts of Africa. According to them, a famine is a catastrophic disruption of the social, economic and institutional systems involved with food production, distribution and consumption.
Period of internet usage: An indicator of the buying behaviour of internet users?
Authors: Du Plessis PJ , Mostert PG , North EJ
Published: June 2017

This article focuses on the experience of the Internet user with regard to purchasing goods and services. A self-administered survey, hosted on a dedicated website, was used as a data collection method and 1005 responses were received. It was found that the period of Internet usage significantly influenced the decision to purchase via the Internet. Another finding was that the period of Internet usage significantly influenced whether those shopping on the Internet searched for, or considered searching for, product and service information online prior to purchasing from non-Internet-based sellers.
An overview of commodity tax reform in Southern Africa
Authors: Robinson Z
Published: June 2017

Various studies have emphasised the trade and/or revenue implications of free trade. The purpose of this study is to investigate future tax implications of further economic integration. Additional considerations are whether tax competition can become an issue and whether it can be used to the benefit of all SADC members. An integrated approach was done of what is needed in terms of commodity taxation to reach a workable long-term solution. This article analyses experiences in the developing world with reference to lessons learned from developed regions. The first section provides a theoretical background, analysing the meaning of commodity tax. The second section emphasises the importance of fiscal decentralisation in federations and the SADC and the third investigates the character of and changes in commodity taxation that could occur in the future.
Trade openness and economic growth in Nigeria: Further evidence on the causality issue
Authors: Olufemi SM
Published: June 2017

The study specifically investigated the causality between the openness variable and economic growth, using data from the Nigerian economy. Previous studies in Nigeria have interpreted the regression results of output variables on the export trade variable as providing support for trade liberalization as engine for growth with less emphasis on other measures like import. Such an interpretation is questionable, since these regressions provided no means for determining the direction of causality. This paper performed causality tests with various forms of openness measures and economic growth. The results indicated a uni-directional relationship between openness and growth. This shows that an increasing level of openness will be beneficial, depending on the level of economic development in Nigeria. The result is robust across different measures of openness and analytical techniques.
Foreign aid and poverty reduction in sub-Saharan Africa: A cross-country investigation
Authors: Ijaiya GT , Ijaiya MA
Published: June 2017

The continuous increase in the rate of poverty in Sub-Saharan Africa can be linked to the inadequate management and use of international financial assistance such as foreign aid. Using a cross-country data, this paper examines the relationship between foreign aid and poverty reduction in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The result obtained indicates that foreign aid has no significant influence on poverty reduction in SSA, because of the countries’ weak economic management evidenced by high levels of corruption, bad governance, and political and economic instability. To improve the performance of foreign aid directed at poverty reduction, the paper suggests the implementation of measures directed at good governance, macroeconomic and political stability.Incentives in Nigeria’s food manufacturing industries and their impact on output and prices
AIDS and economic growth in South Africa
Authors: Smith RBW
Published: June 2017

Morbidity and mortality effects are introduced into a three sector, Ramsey-type model of economic growth. The model is calibrated to South African national accounts data and used to examine the potential impact of HIV/AIDS on economic growth. Simulation results suggest a 10 per cent decrease in the size of the effective labour force would lead to a 10 per cent decrease in long-run (steady state) GDP levels. Similarly, a 10 per cent decrease in the number of labourers would lead to an 11 per cent drop in long-run GDP.
Resident perceptions of mixed-use development in Hout Bay, Cape Town
Authors: Scheepers MJ , Bloom JZ
Published: June 2017

Urban renewal and development is an important strategy in the South African government's plans to combat poverty and transform the country's economy.  The aim of this study was to investigate  the perceptions and attitudes of residents (the local commununity) towards a mixed-use development in Hout Bay, Cape Town.  An exploratory factor analysis was used to reduce 13 usable variables to four factors, labelled as macro-, micro-, location specific- and infrastructure and superstructure factors.  The findings based on the four factors suggest that significant differences exist in the perceptions of development between different socio-economic groups within the community.  Regardless of the socio-economic background of residents, they agreed that development should blend in with existing architecture and the character of the area.
External debt and capital flight in Nigeria: Is there a revolving door?
Authors: Ajilore OT
Published: June 2017

Using the residual method of capital flight estimation, this paper estimates Nigerian capital flight over the period 1970 - 2001 and finds a close correlation between external debt and capital flight flows. This phenomenon suggests a paradoxical revolving door of a bi-directional flow of capital, i.e. where capital enters the country in the guise of external borrowing and simultaneously slips out of the country as private capital flight. The research question addressed by this paper is whether such a financial revolving door relationship exists in Nigeria, just as previous empirical researches had established in a number of countries. The paper utilises a simultaneous equation model and three stage least square estimation technique (3SLS), in addition to two-way Granger causality tests, to obtain statistical evidence that confirms the existence of a financial revolving door relationship between the two endogenous variables. In addition, existence of stronger causality from debt to capital flight is instrumental in showing that growing public deficit and the resulting increase in external debt is being used as a transfer mechanism for capital flight.
Substances of abuse - demand for their determinations in the Western Cape
Authors: Van der Bijl Pieter
Published: June 2017

Background. Drug abuse is as relevant today as ever. Management of such cases on a primary health care level may be challenging, particularly when laboratory facilities are unavailable. Furthermore, substance abuse and its sequelae place a significant burden on the already overstretched primary health care resources in the country, as well as on other ser- vices and society in general.Objectives. The current study surveyed the trends in demand for laboratory determination of amphetamines, opiates, methaqualone, cannabis, cocaine and ethanol for the period 1991 - 2002, in the Western Cape. The survey was conducted by extracting the relevant data from the records of the Pharmacology/Toxicology Laboratory of the University of Stellenbosch and Tygerberg Academic Hospital. This facility processes the largest number of specimens by a single laboratory in the Western Cape.Results. From the data obtained a seasonal pattern emerged for all substances except ethanol, with a trough appearing in early winter. Demand for ethanol analysis was fairly constant throughout the year, with a peak in the last quarter. Ethanol level was the most frequently requested analysis between 1991 and 1997. This concurs with its status as the main substance of abuse in South Africa and the rest of the world. There was an increased demand for analysis of ampheta- mines, opiates, methaqualone, cannabis and cocaine between 1991 and 2002. Generally dominating, next to ethanol, were requests for cannabis and methaqualone analysis. Interesting to note was the increase in demand for opiate analysis, following the trend observed in certain other regions of the world.Conclusion. The analysis trends observed in this study demon- strate global patterns of drug abuse emerging in the Western Cape. The medical and social effects of drug abuse impose a grave responsibility on policymakers to ensure that adequate funding is available for analytical laboratories. Only in such a way can these patients be correctly diagnosed and treated.