bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Estimation of the source material for breeding of self-fertile varieties of alfalfa with high seed yield
Authors: Н. В. Башкірова  , Н. В. Курочка  
Published: May 2019

Purpose. Obtaining the highly self-fertile samples of alfalfa with a minimal effect of inbreeding depression on seed productivity for the use in the further selective breeding.Methods. Field, laboratory, mathematical and statistical.Results. The expansion of the area under valuable high-protein perennial crops of alfalfa is limited by the lack of seeds due to the low yield of its modern varieties. In conditions of insufficient numbers of pollinating insects, cross-breeding varieties have low seed yield. Thus, self-fertile varieties may have an increased seed yield, since their plants are able to form seeds by self-pollination. As a result of studying 58 samples of the breeding nursery of alfalfa, among which there were inbred lines of 8–10 generations and hybrids, a high level of their self-fertility was determined. Pollen fertility of most samples ranged from 78.6 to 96.5%, and only eight of them showed a decrease to 63.6–78.0%. Selections for the components of seed productivity allowed us to distinguish samples with the number of flowers in the inflorescence from 22.0 to 36.2 pcs. (standard variety ‘Yaroslavna’ – 26.9 pcs.); with the number of set pods from free pollination – from 13.0 up to 21.0 pcs. (standard variety – 16.5 pcs.). The seed yield varied from 10.17 to 35.63 g/m2, and in the standard variety it was 22.03 g/m2. Conclusions. The level of self-fertility of the studied samples of the breeding nursery of alfalfa was quite high – from 32.6 to 68.1%. This breeding material was obtained from the previously created autogamous forms and selected in terms of the minimum effect of inbreeding depression on seed yield. All the obtained breeding material, among which there are hybrids between highly self-fertile samples and inbred lines, will later be used in the selection process to create alfalfa varieties with high seed yield.
Correlates of Professional Quality of Life in Nurses
Authors: Mohsin Zehra , Shahed Sarah , Sohail Talat 
Published: May 2019

To look into the correlation between demographic variables, perceived social support and professional quality of lifeof nurses in public hospitals. A sample of 160 nurses of age (M=33.48, SD=9.18) was selected from public hospitals of Lahore. The nurses completed a demographic information form, MultidimensionalScale of Perceived Social Supportand Professional Quality of Life Scale. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Two demographic variables, age and experience had significant positive correlation with compassion fatigue, r =.252, n=160, p <.01 and r =.256, n=160, p <.01 respectively. Other demographicvariables i.e. working hours and monthly income had no significant relationship with the subscales of Professional Quality of Life (compassion satisfaction, compassion fatigue and burnout). Perceived Social Support had a significant correlation with compassion satisfaction, r=.222, n=160, p<.01. It was concluded that the relationship between age, experience and compassion fatigue of nurses was significantly positive. The greater the age and experience of the nurses the more likely they are to have compassion fatigue. Perceived Social Support was related with compassion satisfaction which suggests that nurses’ perception of social support can increase their compassion satisfaction.
Treatment Compliance in Diabetics: Physician-Patient Relationship
Authors: Zahid Anza , Ayub Muhammad Ali , Saeed Mujtaba , Pasha Nasir , Dar Abdul Jabbar , Javed Huzaifa , Shakeel Aimen , Nasir Amna , Akbar Ana , Tarrar Zainab , Humayun Ayesha 
Published: May 2019

Diabetes is a chronic disease and non-compliance attitude of patients poses a great challenge to the success of therapy. Multiple factors influence compliance among diabetics and other chronic diseases and non-compliance results in avoidable consequences and complications. In order to determine the magnitudeand factors of non-compliance to physicians’ advice in diabetics attending outpatients, a cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in outpatient diabetic clinics of Shaikh Zayed and Services Hospitals in Lahore. Results presented in this study are based on 177 patients investigated for 3 months (April 2014-June2014). Subjects were conveniently enrolled after taking written informed consent using a self-constructed and structured questionnaire. Out of 177 participants, 55.36% were females and 51.41% participants were in the range of 52-75 years of age. Among 79 males, majority (45.6%) were employees, whereas 91.8% werehousewives among females’ participants,. Out of 177 diabetic patients, 42 patients (23.7%) were non-compliant and 135 patients (62.5%) were found to be compliant. The normal glucose level was observed in 120/177 (67.8%) of participants. Interestingly, 97.2% subjects revealed agood attitude as the main trait of apractitioner whereas 2.8% claimed good practice and competency. Conversely, 94.4% blamed bad attitude as a trait of bad doctor whereas 4.6% reported that the bad practice and incompetency is responsible for the negative trait. Taken together, compliance to physician’s advice is better among diabetics attending tertiarycare hospitals in current study. The study encourages our health care system to provide more awareness and obtain a deeper understanding of factors causing non-compliance. A positive relationship between patient and practitioners would positively impact on the clinical outcome of the ailments and their therapies.
Leadership Styles of Medical Professionals
Authors: Nizami Rahila , Latif Muhammad Zahid , Hussain Intzar , Rashid Khalid 
Published: May 2019

Leadership is an obligatory inter-personal skill for executive positions and medical professionals are no exception. They play crucial roles in variety of scenarios including leading wards, camps, campaigns, open houses, seminars and symposiums as well as day-to-day bases dealing with clinical directors and managers.This study was conducted to study the leadership styles among the medical professionals. For this purpose, a cross sectional and non-probability convenient sampling was conducted involving 59 medical professionals of Azra Naheed Medical College, Lahore. The assessment of leadership-style (T-P leadership ratingscale) was applied. The ages of subjects were 37.42±11.91years, and 29(49.15%) were male and 27(45.76%) were female whereas 3(5.1%) were of undisclosed gender. The mean age of males were 41.28±12.85years and average age of females was 32.83±9.03years. A total of 36(61.02%) of participants were married and17(28.81%) were unmarried whereas 6(10.2%) did not disclose their marital statuses. Regardless of the gender, age and character, no dominating leadership-style was identified among the medical professionals participated in this study, highlighting the need for leadership development in health professionals. Thispresent a great challenge for health professionals to understand how their leadership behaviors affect the performance. Further research is required to provide more comparable evaluations in health sector leadership in diverse cohorts and the presented study provides the baseline to improve this feature in healthcareprofessionals.
Effects of Maternal food Insecurity on Birth Weight of Neonates: A Prospective Cohort
Authors: Saeed Ayesha , Naqvi Mobina , Javed Ahsan 
Published: May 2019

Pakistani population is seriously malnutritioned and is hunger redisposed. Based on the Global Hunger Index Pakistan is ranked at 107 of 118 countries .Food insecurity is among major causes of under-nutrition and has been associated with low birth weights. This study aimed to assess the effect of maternal foodinsecurity on birth weight of neonates in Lahore, Pakistan.Ina prospective cohort conducted at Shalamar Hospital Lahore; from April to August 2016, written informed consents were obtained from 103 eligible pregnant women. Data on demography was collected through a structured questionnaire and exposure wasassessed through 6-items Version of U.S. Household Food Security Survey and cohort was followed until delivery, and birth weight was recorded. Follow up could be completed for 50 women only and response rate was 49%. Descriptive statistics were calculated, and relative risk and multinomial logistic Regression were applied using SPSS version 22. Mean maternal age was 28.100+4.824 years, mean education was 12.400+2.138 years, mean BMI was 29.420+5.075 and mean household income was PKR 25641+16251.543. With these characteristics, the mean birth weight of2.814+0.551 kg was recorded. Four percent (n=2) had very low food security and 34% (n=17) women had low food security. Importantly, food unsecured women had a 5.439 times increased risk of delivering a low birth weight neonate (RR=5.439, CI=1.710-17.296, p=0.002). Regression analysis indicated a significant association (AOR 16.076, CI=2.381-108.564, p=0.004).Based onthese studies, it was concluded that food insecurity in pregnancy is associated with low birth weight in neonates. Antenatal screening of food insecurity and timely provision food supplements through social welfare can help reduce neonatal morbidity and mortality.
Contribution of decision support systems to water management improvement in basins with high evaporation in Mediterranean climates
Authors: Ruiz-Ortiz Verónica , García-López Santiago , Solera Abel , Paredes Javier 
Published: May 2019

Abstract
The entry into force of Directive 2000/60/EC of the European Parliament and the Council of 23 October 2000 established a new model for the management and protection of surface water and groundwater in Europe. In this sense, a thorough knowledge of the basins is an essential step in achieving this European objective. The utility of integrative decision support systems (DSS) for decision-making in complex systems and multiple objectives allows decision-makers to identify characteristics and improve water management in a basin. In this research, hydrological and water management resource models have been combined, with the assistance of the DSS AQUATOOL, with the aim of deepening the consideration of losses by evaporation of reservoirs for a better design of the basin management rules. The case study treated is an Andalusian basin of the Atlantic zone (Spain). At the same time, different management strategies are analysed based on the optimization of the available resources by means of the conjunctive use of surface water and groundwater.
Understanding lead in water and avoidance strategies: a United States perspective for informed decision-making
Authors: Pieper Kelsey J. , Katner Adrienne , Kriss Rebecca , Tang Min , Edwards Marc A. 
Published: May 2019

AbstractThe pervasiveness of lead in drinking water poses a significant public health threat, which can be reduced by implementing preventive measures. However, the causes of elevated lead in water and the benefits of lead in water avoidance strategies are often misunderstood. Based on experiences in the United States, this paper describes an oversimplified ‘lead in water equation’ to explain key variables controlling the presence of lead in drinking water to better inform public health practitioners, government officials, utility personnel, and concerned residents. We illustrate the application of the equation in Flint, Michigan and explore the primary household-level water lead avoidance strategies recommended during the crisis, including flushing, filtration, bottled water use, and lead pipe removal. In addition to lead reduction, strategies are evaluated based on costs and limitations. While these lead avoidance strategies will reduce water lead to some degree, the costs, limitations, and effectiveness of these strategies will be site- and event-specific. This paper presents a simplified approach to communicate key factors which must be considered to effectively reduce waterborne lead exposures for a wide range of decision makers.This article has been made Open Access thanks to the generous support of a global network of libraries as part of the Knowledge Unlatched Select initiative.
Water availability, consumption and sufficiency in Himalayan towns: a case of Murree and Havellian towns from Indus River Basin, Pakistan
Authors: Virk Zeeshan Tahir , Khalid Bilal , Hussain Abid , Ahmad Bashir , Dogar Salaar Saeed , Raza Nelufar , Iqbal Bilal 
Published: May 2019

AbstractThis study attempts to analyse the status of water availability, consumption and sufficiency in two Himalayan towns – Murree and Havellian from Pakistan's Indus Basin, using the primary data collected from 350 households, 26 town level focus groups and key informants. Findings revealed that groundwater is the main source of water on which around 85% of households are heavily dependent. Estimates of water availability, consumption and water sufficiency ratio (WSR) show that available groundwater is not sufficient (0.89) to meet the requirements for consumption in Havellian. However, in the case of Murree, available water is sufficient (1.92). Taking into account the national standards of water consumption, WSR estimates show that both towns have insufficient water availability (Murree: 0.68, Havellian: 0.50). There is evidence that in both towns, water is being mismanaged at household level. In addition, one-fifth of households reported that climate change has also affected the water availability in the towns over time. Factors such as rapid urbanization and population growth are likely to result in increased requirements of water in the future. Based on the findings, the study has suggested policy actions on protection, efficient use, diversification and governance of groundwater resources.
Environmentally friendly interlocking concrete paver blocks produced with treated wastewater
Authors: Tonetti Adriano Luiz , Duarte Natalia Cangussu , dos Santos Mariana Rodrigues Ribeiro , Siqueira Gustavo Henrique 
Published: May 2019

Abstract
This study aimed at supporting processes and techniques for minimization of water consumption in the production of concrete. For this purpose, the use of treated wastewater from a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in interlocking concrete paver block (ICPB) production was evaluated. The treated wastewater was added in various dosages (0%, 50%, 75% and 100%) to the water used to produce cylindrical concrete samples. These samples were evaluated for compressive strength and water absorption tests. After these evaluations, the dosage of 100% treated wastewater for concrete production was established and ICPB were produced with this water composition. Subsequently, an area in a parking lot was replaced by ICPB produced with treated wastewater, and an equal area was replaced by ICPB produced with potable water. A comparison between parameters obtained for cylindrical samples and ICPB samples prepared with treated wastewater and those prepared with potable water indicated that wastewater reuse would be a good alternative for potable water consumption reduction in the concrete industry.
Amine functionalized and Fe3O4 incorporated activated carbon for bisphenol-A separation
Authors: Bhatia Drishti , Batra Sakshi , Datta Dipaloy 
Published: May 2019

Abstract
Activated carbon (AC) is the most commonly used adsorbent for water purification, although the dispersive nature of AC in aqueous solution poses a serious problem. To overcome this limitation, AC was magnetized with iron oxide using iron salts as precursor. Further to enhance its effectiveness, it was impregnated with Aliquat 336. Different characterization techniques (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), along with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD)) were used to analyze the adsorbent. Furthermore, the value of the pH at which the overall charge on the surface of the adsorbent is neutral was found by pH drift method. The modified form of the activated carbon was used to treat the aqueous solution of bisphenol-A in the batch as well as in the continuous mode of operation. In batch mode, the data were validated using equilibrium and kinetic models, and in continuous mode, data were fitted with the Thomas, Adams-Bohart, and bed depth service time (BDST) fixed bed adsorption models. Also, the changes in Gibb's free energy, enthalpy, and entropy were estimated from the temperature study. The design of an adsorption column is proposed to treat 10,000 L/day of an industrial effluent containing BPA.
Impact Behaviour Of Hybrid Bandage Casts
Authors: Agisparayan C.K. , Low K.O. , Lim S.T. , Wong K.J. 
Published: May 2019

Background:Many studies were done to assess the mechanical characteristics of the bandage casts with regards to different specifications of materials under different parameters. Many patents have been designed on the various types of casting materials such as POP, fiberglass and polyester. A recent trend in the patent is to explore a hybrid combination for bandage casts to withstand structural failure, crack formation or deformation.Objective:This study aims to study the effect of impact force on plaster of Paris, fiberglass and hybrid bandage casts.Methods:There different bandage casts were constructed using plaster of Paris, fiberglass and a hybrid combination of plaster of Paris and fiberglass. They were subjected to Charpy impact test, three-point flexural test, and Rockwell B hardness test.Results:The impact characteristics, energy absorption properties, ductility, rigidity, strength, stiffness and indentation hardness of the hybrid bandage cast were found to be greatly influenced from being a composite of two casts and interfaces. It was found that the impact energy capable of being absorbed prior to fracture for the plaster of Paris, fiberglass and hybrid were 1.225 Joules, 11.125 Joules and 6.750 Joules, respectivelyConclusion:Hybrid bandage casts possessed improved impact characteristics compared to plaster of Paris bandage casts and more cost-effectiveness as compared to fiberglass bandage casts
Development and Pilot Testing of a Novel Graphic Values History Tool to Support Communication and Decision Making During Serious Illness
Authors: Allatt Peter , You (ED) John 
Published: May 2019

Background: We report the development and pilot-testing of a values history tool to support patients and their substitute decision makers (SDMs) in advance care planning.Methods: Tool development was an iterative, multi-phase process involving expert input, literature review, patient input, and beta-testing with 35 laypersons. In a single-center, before-after pilot study, we assessed the acceptability, clarity, and potential utility of the tool. Results: Participants (n=6; 3 patients and 3 SDMs) rated the tool as clear (4.7/5), worthwhile (4.7/5), and said it did not cause distress (4.7/5).Tool completion and discussion resulted in better understanding of patient values (mean 4.5 on a 5-point scale) and helped build understanding between patient and SDM (4.3/5). ParticipantsConclusions: Based on development involving content experts, patients, and laypersons, we conclude that our tool has face and content validity. Our pilot study suggests it merits evaluation in larger studies to further evaluate its utility.
A Machine Learning-Based Peer Selection Method with Financial Ratios
Authors: Ding Kexing , Peng Xuan , Wang Yunsen 
Published: May 2019

SYNOPSIS
Researchers and practitioners have used industry classification systems (e.g., SIC) to select peer firms and create an evaluation benchmark. However, we argue that the choice of peer firms should depend on the research goals. A single peer selection method is not adequate in all circumstances. This study provides a novel approach that yields flexible groupings of firms using clustering techniques. We select the set of financial ratios related to a particular research objective and apply K-medians clustering to identify peer firms. In the subsequent year, a new variable is constructed to capture firms' deviation from peer firms. Significant deviations between a firm and its peers may indicate potential anomalies. We evaluate the usefulness of this K-medians clustering-based peer selection approach by incorporating this variable into a misstatement detection model and a bankruptcy prediction model and find that information about the clustering-based peers can enhance the performance of existing models.
The Swiss National Bank’s fear of float
Authors: Berthold Kristin , Stadtmann Georg 
Published: May 2019

Abstract
We theoretically examine under which assumptions the impossible trinity holds. We also focus on the most recent Swiss experience and ask whether the SNB gained monetary independence by switching from a fixed to a floating exchange rate system in January 2015. The theoretical examination shows that the impossible trinity holds under the following assumptions: Equality of domestic and foreign real interest rates, the quantity theory of money holds, and that the relative PPP is fulfilled. The empirical analysis reveals that relative PPP does not hold for the Swiss case and it was necessary for the SNB to adopt its monetary policy in accordance with the ECB’s expansionary monetary policy. We show that for a small open economy, such as Switzerland, whether the central bank implements a fixed or a floating exchange rate system does not play a role in its monetary policy independence.
Basel III LCR Requirement and Banks’ Deposit Funding: Empirical Evidence from Emerging Markets
Authors: Mashamba Tafirei , Magweva Rabson 
Published: May 2019

Abstract
In December 2010, the Basel Committee on Baking Supervision introduced the liquidity coverage ratio (LCR) standard for banking institutions in response to disturbances that rocked banks during the 2007/08 global financial crisis. The rule is aimed at enhancing banks’ resilience to short term liquidity shocks as it requires banks to hold ample stock of high grade securities. This study attempts to evaluate the impact of the LCR specification on the funding structures of banks in emerging markets by answering the question “Did Basel III LCR requirement induced banks in emerging market economies to increase deposit funding more than they would otherwise do?” The study found that the LCR charge has been effective in persuading banks in emerging markets to garner more stable retail deposits. This response may engender banking sector stability if competition for retail deposits is properly regulated.
Experimental Measurement of Erbium-Doped Optical Fibre Charecteristics for Edfa Performance Optimization
Authors: Lavrinovica I. , Supe A. , Porins J. 
Published: May 2019

Abstract
The paper presents experimental study of the major erbium-doped fibre amplifier (EDFA) features such as gain at low signal and gain saturation by an application of different erbium-doped optical fibres (EDFs). The main objective of the research is to estimate how the performance of EDFA varies depending on the length of doped fibre, pumping configuration scheme, as well as excitation source power. It is shown that a high gain coefficient of 16–20 dB can be practically achieved.