bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the Accuracy of Apex Locators with Conventional Techniques in determining the Root Canal Length in Primary Teeth
Authors: Kommineni Naveen Kumar , Simha P Prathyusha , Reddy Vinay Chand , Samyuktha C Lalitha , Battepati Prashanth M
Published: January 2016

Aim

To compare the accuracy of apex locators with conventional techniques in determining the root canal length in primary teeth.

Materials and Methods

Thisin vitrostudy was conducted on twenty extracted primary incisors. After endodontic access preparation, root canals were irrigated with physiological saline solution. The access cavities were dried with cotton pellets and, the roots were dried with paper points before performing the electronic measurement. One operator determined the actual working length (AWL) of the canal and another operator measured working length using conventional F-speed radiographs, digital radiography (Dr suni plus digital radiography system, model no 900-0540) and electronic apex locator- Raypex 5 (VDW GmbH Postfach) 5th generation apex locator. The mean value of differences was obtained and statistical analysis was performed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the paired t-test.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference between tooth lengths estimate on conventional, digital and apex locators. 0.5 to 1 mm of clinically acceptable discrepancy was found between three techniques.

Conclusion

Although there was no significant statistical difference, electronic apex locator (EAL) has more advantage over other techniques, it is considered accurate in determining the working length in primary teeth.

How to cite this article

Reddy VK, Kommineni NK, Simha PP, Reddy VC, Samyuktha CL, Battepati PM. Comparison of the Accuracy of Apex Locators with Conventional Techniques in determining the Root Canal Length in Primary Teeth. J Contemp Dent 2015;5(2):61-64.
Exploring the Relationship between Self-Efficacy and Career Commitment among Early Career Agriculture Teachers
Authors: McKim Aaron J. , Velez Jonathan J.
Published: January 2016

The purpose of this study was to investigate the differences in career commitment and perceived efficacy among early career agriculture teachers as well as the relationships between early career agriculture teachers’ perceived efficacy and career commitment. Five areas of selfefficacy were investigated among early career agriculture teachers in five western states: classroom management, instructional strategies, leadership of students, science teaching, and math teaching. Only small effects were found on four of the five self-efficacy variables based on years of teaching experience. Using multiple linear regression analysis, a predictive model for early career agriculture teachers’ career commitment was developed. The final model explained a total of 20% of the variance in early career agriculture teachers’ career commitment. Two areas of self-efficacy were identified as significantly related to early career teachers’ career commitment, teachers’ sense of efficacy in classroom management and science teaching. These findings implicate a need for increased emphasis on classroom management strategies and science teaching strategies throughout agriculture teacher development. Recommendations are made for potential self-efficacy building experiences based on Bandura’s theory of self-efficacy.
The Cultural Adaptation Process During a Short-term Study Abroad Experience in Swaziland
Authors: Conner Nathan W. , Roberts T. Grady
Published: January 2016

Globalization continuously shapes our world and influences post-secondary education. This study explored the cultural adaptation process of participants during a short-term study abroad program. Participants experienced stages which included initial feelings, cultural uncertainty, cultural barriers, cultural negativity, academic and career growth, feelings throughout the program, and cultural growth. The findings from this study should be used to design and implement short-term study abroad programs that infuse cultural learning with academic learning and focus on experiential learning practices.
Preservice Agriculture Teachers' Perceived Level of Readiness in an Agricultural Mechanics Course
Authors: Blackburn J. Joey , Robinson J. Shane , Field Harry
Published: January 2016

This longitudinal trend study sought to compare the perceptions of preservice agricultural education teachers, enrolled in a Metals and Welding course at a land grant university, on their welding related skills at the beginning of the semester to their final course grade at the end of the semester. Preservice agriculture teachers (N = 240) who completed the course between the Fall 2006 and Spring 2012 semesters served as the population for the study. Although the course is designed, specifically, to facilitate learning in metal fabrication, not one preservice teacher in any semester perceived an excellent ability in performing the welding related skills. However, skills related to shielded metal arc welding and gas metal arc welding were rated higher than those related to gas tungsten arc welding or oxyacetylene welding. The course instructor should be made aware of this discrepancy and encourage students to seek additional experiences in metals and welding. Further, the course instructor should continue to collect these data at the beginning and end of the course to determine the impact these changes have on students’ ability to perform and teach the skills as future instructors. Similar studies should be conducted in other areas of agricultural mechanics, such as small gasoline engines, plumbing, and agricultural structures.
Conflicts of Time: Examining School Schedules in Secondary Agricultural Programs
Authors: Epps Rebekah B. , Adams Randy J. , Vincent Stacy K.
Published: January 2016

The purpose of this study was to examine how school schedules can or cannot be justified through the perspective of student performance on state core content assessments and occupational skills standards assessments. This study utilized the Theory of Power in Education when considering school schedules as a means to student success on core content and occupational skills assessment. The population of this study consisted of secondary agricultural programs (n = 136) across the state of Kentucky. The survey revealed the majority of secondary agricultural programs work on a seven-period day. Secondary agricultural programs received the highest pass rate on the production livestock occupational skill standards assessment. The majority of students received a passing score on the state mandated assessment area of reading no matter the schedule. Less than half of agricultural students received passing scores in Math, Science, and Social Studies. Trimester schedules had the lowest pass rate in the areas of Reading, Science, Social Studies, and Writing while only outperforming 4x4 block in Math by one percentile.
Fundamental Dimensions and Essential Elements of Exemplary Local Extension Units
Authors: Terry Bryan D. , Osborne Edward
Published: January 2016

Collaborative efforts between federal, state, and local government agencies enable local Extension units to deliver a high level of educational opportunities to local citizens. These units represent land-grant institutions by delivering non-formal education that aim to address local, regional, and state concerns. The purpose of this study was to establish consensus that defines the characteristics of an exemplary local Extension unit of the Cooperative Extension Service. This effort is significant because the extent to which these Extension partners have agreed on the components of successful Extension units has never been clearly defined and was unknown. Determining the characteristics of an exemplary local Extension unit will facilitate consistency in the delivery of non-formal education through Extension. Using a modified Delphi technique to survey administrators responsible for the operation of the local Extension unit, this study identified six fundamental dimensions of an exemplary local Extension unit: adequate facilities and infrastructure, well-prepared Extension educators, well-developed educational programs, organizational accountability, effective county unit leadership, and adequate financial capacity. Within these six fundamental dimensions, the study further identified 77 essential elements of exemplary local Extension units. Results of this study will provide the foundation for the development of standards to guide the improvement of local Extension offices.
Student Self-Perceptions of Leadership in Two Missouri FFA Chapters: A Collective Case Study
Authors: Kagay Rachel Bartholomew , Marx Adam A. , Simonsen Jon C.
Published: January 2016

The focus of this study is the self-perceptions of leadership engagement of FFA members in two FFA chapters in Missouri. This multiple case study used documentation of student self- perceptions, researcher observations, and focus groups. The two cases included 24 high school students comprised of FFA officers and members, who provided their perspectives on leadership. Six major themes emerged from the data analysis: (a) personal abilities and motivation as influencing student leaders; (b) barriers to leadership as perceived by officers and members; (c) support from others as influencing student leadership; (d) officers’ perceiving that members are apathetic; (e) leadership as enhancing personal and professional development; and (f) perceived gender differences in leadership style. It is recommended that FFA advisors discuss diverse leadership styles and motivational factors with students. In turn, leading to the potential development of leadership skills and awareness by all students in a FFA chapter. The content of leadership education for adolescents also may need broadening to emphasize content beyond study of traits. Recommendations for student success include additional research into best practices of leadership development of all students and the ability to assist students in addressing identified barriers.
How Time Allocation Impacts Teacher Efficacy of Student Teaching Interns in Agricultural Education: A Q-sort Study
Authors: Krysher Sheyenne , Robinson J. Shane , Edwards M. Craig
Published: January 2016

Several studies in agricultural education have assessed teacher self-efficacy of novice, first-year, and veteran teachers. Likewise, numerous studies have assessed the time students spend at their cooperating centers. However, a need existed to understand the influence of time allocation on teacher self-efficacy in a way that enabled human subjectivity to be considered, i.e., Q- methodology. The study found that three intern views existed at Oklahoma State University in agricultural education: Self-Assured Teachers, Determined Teachers, and Emerging Teachers. The Self-Assured Teachers spent the most amount of time teaching when compared to the other two views. Determined Teachers spent the most amount of time observing, and Emerging Teachers spent the most amount of time in school. The findings have implications for student teacher placements in cooperating centers and pre-service teachers’ early field-based experiences in agricultural education.
Consumers' Motivations and Dairy Production Beliefs Regarding Participation in an Educational Dairy Farm Event
Authors: LaFollette Lindsay K. , Knobloch Neil A. , Schutz Michael M. , Brady Colleen M.
Published: January 2016

Exploratory discriminant analysis was used to determine the extent adult consumers' interest motivation to participate in a free educational dairy farm event and their beliefs of the dairy industry could correctly classify the respondents' predicted participation in a nonformal educational event. The most prominent conclusion of the study was that nearly three of four adult consumers in an Indiana community would attend an educational event on a dairy farm if they: (1) were motivated to attend an educational agricultural event because it is fun, interesting, and enjoyable, (2) were motivated to attend educational agricultural events to acquire new knowledge and meet a challenge, (3) were motivated to attend educational agricultural events out of desire to be nutritionally healthy, (4) were familiar with agriculture or directly involved in the industry, (5) were in agreement with the animal welfare practices that dairy farmers implement, and (6) resided in a household that reportedly consumed at least three gallons of fluid milk per week, on average, while at home. This finding may help outreach organizations develop non-formal, educational events that are more appealing to their target audiences as well as market those events in a way that will motivate more consumers to attend.
Service-Learning's Ongoing Journey as a Method of Instruction: Implications for School-Based Agricultural Education
Authors: Roberts Richie , Edwards M. Craig
Published: January 2016

American education’s journey has witnessed the rise and fall of various progressive education approaches, including service-learning. In many respects, however, service-learning is still undergoing formation and adoption as a teaching method, specifically in School-based, Agricultural Education (SBAE). For this reason, the interest existed to understand service- learning’s origins and its evolution as a method of instruction. As such, this historical study sought to describe the events and philosophical underpinnings presaging service-learning’s emergence as a method of instruction, and how this approach to learning has been incentivized and used in SBAE. Findings and implications from the study revealed that service-learning’s deep philosophical roots can be traced to great thinkers, including Aristotle, Plato, Rousseau, Kant, and Dewey. Moreover, the researchers suggest the core principals of service-learning align with delivering SBAE’s three-circle model in effective and powerful ways. Moving forward, scholars and practitioners of SBAE should ask themselves, “Is service-learning the teaching method of choice for conflating the components of SBAE’s three-circle model such that the whole really is greater than the sum of its parts?”
Personal and Political: A Micro-history of the "Red Column" Collective Farm, 1935-36
Authors: Lomb Samantha
Published: January 2016

This article investigates the confluence of personal interests and the official policy on collective farms in the mid 1930s, a period that has received far less scholarly attention than the collectivization drive.  The current historiography on collective farmers’ relationship with the state is one-sided, presenting peasants either as passive victims of or idealized resistors to state policies.  Both views minimize the complex realities that governed the everyday lives of collective farmers for whom state policies often were secondary to local concerns. My paper, which draws upon rich archival materials in Kirov Krai, employs a micro-historical approach to study the struggle to remove the chairman of the “Red Column” collective farm in Kirov Krai in 1935-36.  It demonstrates that local and personal issues (family ties, grudges, and personality traits) had more influence on how collective farmers reacted to state campaigns and investigations than did official state policy and rhetoric. The chairman’s rude and arrogant behavior, mistreatment of the collective farmers, and flaunting of material goods led to his downfall.  But to strengthen their arguments, his opponents accused him of associating with kulaks and white guardists. The chairman and his supporters struck back, alleging that his detractors were themselves white guardists and kulaks, who sought revenge for having been expelled from the collective farm. Such a micro-historical approach reveals the importance of popular opinion, attitudes, and behavior on collective farms and the level of control that collective farmers had over shaping the implementation of state policies. This paper enables one to appreciate that peasants knew well how to manipulate official labels, such as kulak or class enemy, as weapons to achieve goals of local and personal importance.  It enriches the historiography by offering a different way to appreciate peasant attitudes and behavior, and collective farm life in the mid 1930s.
Improving Seed Potato Leaf Area Index, Stomatal Conductance and Chlorophyll Accumulation Efficiency through Irrigation Water, Nitrogen and Phosphorus Nutrient Management
Authors: Kingori Gathungu Geofrey , Nyamori Aguyoh Joseph , Dorcas Khasungu Isutsa
Published: January 2016

A study was conducted in a Rainshelter (RTrial) at Horticultural Research and Teaching Farm, Egerton University to determine the effect of integration of irrigation water, nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) application on seed potato leaf area index (LAI), stomatal conductance and chlorophyll content. The treatments arranged in a split-split plot layout in a completely randomised block design, consisted of three irrigation water rates (40%, 65% and 100% field capacity), four N rates (0, 75, 112.5 and 150 kg N/ha) supplied as urea (46% N), and four P rates (0, 50.6, 75.9, 101.2 kg P/ha) supplied as triple superphosphate, replicated three times and repeated once. During the growth leaf area, stomatal conductance, and chlorophyll content were measured. Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance and significantly different means separated using Tukey’s Studentized Range Test at P≤0.05. Leaf area index was greater with high irrigation water at 100%, N at 150 kg N/ha and P at 101.2 kg P/ha, which was 2.6 and 1.3 at 51 days after planting (DAP) and 3.5 and 3.1 at 64 DAP. Furthermore, low irrigation water rate at 40% together with low N and P rates of 0 kg N/ha and 0 kg P/ha had the least LAI, which was 0.28 and 0.19 at 51 DAP and 0.28 and 0.24 at 64 DAP both in RTrials I and II, respectively. Subjecting potato to 100% compared to 40% irrigation rate increased stomatal conductance at 87 days after planting (DAP) by 32.82 and 31.99 mmolm⁻²s⁻¹, leaf chlorophyll content index by 16.2 and 16.5, 19.8 and 19.6, and 15 and 20.3, when integrated with high compared with low N and P application rates at 59, 73 and 87 DAP, in RTrials I and II respectively. Irrespective of N and P rates LAI, stomatal conductance and chlorophyll content were significantly greater with high irrigation water at 100% followed by 65% and was lowest with 40% irrigation water rate.
Exploring the Relationships of Green Perceived Value, the Diffusion of Innovations, and the Technology Acceptance Model of Green Transportation
Authors: Chen Shang-Yu , Lu Chung-Cheng
Published: January 2016

This research investigates the effect of green perceived value, perceived ease of use, and green perceived usefulness on using intentions, and discusses the mediation constructs of perceived ease of use and green perceived usefulness for green transportation consciousness. The objective of this research focuses on how to establish using intentions of green transportation via green perceived value to green perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use based on the technology acceptance model (TAM). This research utilizes the methodology of structural equation modeling to establish the theoretical implications of the empirical results. The findings indicate that green perceived value has no significant influence on using intentions, while green perceived usefulness has more powerfully positive effects, and perceived ease of use has a weak positive effect. Hence a mediation effect of green perceived usefulness exists between using intentions and green perceived value. Moreover, the findings also indicate that the mediation effect of green perceived usefulness has the strongest power to influence using intention. For the diffusion theory of innovations, the early majority was found to be the greatest proportion in the analysis of the diffusion theory's five adopters. Consequently, governmental institutions should increase their efforts to foster users' green perceived value and green perceived usefulness so as to enhance the general public's using intentions for green transportation such as YouBike.
3PL CEO Perspectives on the Current Status and Future Prospects of the Third-party Logistics Industry in North America: The 2014 Survey
Authors: Lieb Robert C. , Lieb Kristin J.
Published: January 2016

This article reports the findings of a 2014 survey of the CEOs of 14 of the largest third-party logistics (3PL) companies serving the North American market. The survey marks the 21st annual iteration of this effort to document and analyze their views concerning such matters as the major dynamics, opportunities, and challenges facing their companies. The article also addresses such issues as the “Amazon Effect” and its impact on the 3PL industry, the industry's involvement in the nearshoring movement, and the recent restructuring of the regional industry through a wave of large-scale acquisitions. The implications of the findings are also discussed by the authors.
Molecular diagnostic testing: Alphabet soup with a side of codes
Authors: Schroeder Wendy S , Demeure Michael J , Millis Sherri Z
Published: January 2016

Effective and affordable health care depends on the availability of accurate, reliable and clinically valid monitoring tests. Faulty tests can lead to misdiagnosis or failure to diagnose, resulting in patients receiving unnecessary treatment, delays in treatment or no treatment when treatment is needed. Safe and effective genomic testing is increasingly more important with advances in precision/personalized medicine. The rapid evolution of technology and molecular testing has brought new hope to patients and new pressures to payors. While genomic panel testing is time and cost efficient, minimally disruptive for patients and physicians, and spares valuable specimens, payors struggle with evidence-based approaches to coverage determinations in an environment where clinical treatment options cannot keep pace with technology. The result: a highly complex coding structure, disparate coverage policies, and extremely variable reimbursement for genomic testing. Providing the right treatment to the right patient at the right time depends on meaningful tests proven to impact clinical decisions, integrated with the most current data relevant to the practice of medicine, and recognized as medically necessary to tailor treatment for the unique biology of a disease. An understanding of the test reimbursement landscape is critical to implementation of a successful personalized medicine business model.
Special Designed Activities for Learning English Language through the Application of WhatsApp!
Authors: Zayed Niveen Mohammad
Published: January 2016

Students nowadays have strong passion towards the smart mobile phones with all their smart applications. The researcher believes that English language teachers can use the mobile phones, from each now and then, to increase the students’ motivation. In this paper, the researcher designed a number of special activities that can be delivered to the students through the application of Whats App on the smart mobile phones. The activities are designed for intermediate level but can be modified to suit other levels and contexts.
Tree cover and injurious feather-pecking in commercial flocks of freerange laying hens: a follow up
Authors: Bright A , Gill R , Willings TH
Published: January 2016

Injurious feather-pecking in non-cage systems is a serious economic and welfare concern for the egg-producing industry. This study presents results from data of over 1,000 flocks from producers who supplied free-range eggs to McDonald's Restaurants Ltd UK between 2008 and 2013. These producers had a minimum 5% of the outdoor range planted in trees. We investigated the correlation between the plumage damage of end-of-lay hens with i) proportion of the total range planted with trees and ii) proportion of canopy cover within tree-planted areas. As tree canopy developed over the study period, we also investigated whether there were any changes in end-of-lay plumage-damage scores within farms, with year over the five years. There was a negative correlation between canopy cover and plumage damage at the end of lay, ie less canopy cover within tree-planted areas resulted in significantly worse plumage damage at the end of lay. There was no correlation between the amount of range planted and plumage damage at the end of lay. These results support the notion that it is the degree of shade and shelter (ie quality of cover) that is important to the hens rather than the absolute area. We did not find any association between year and end-of-lay plumage-damage scores. Due to commercial changes in supply, the proportion of farms providing data for ≥ 3 years was small, thereby limiting the data set with which to compare individual farms’ plumage-damage scores. It is hoped the relationship between year and plumage-damage score will be reexamined in a future study.
Attitudes of veterinary students in Croatia toward farm animal welfare
Authors: Ostović M , Mesić Ž , Mikuš T , Matković K , Pavičić Ž
Published: January 2016

This survey was undertaken to assess the attitudes of Croatian veterinary students regarding farm animal welfare issues. The study included students of all undergraduate years at the only Faculty of Veterinary Medicine in Croatia. First-year students were surveyed twice, ie before and after attending the course on animal welfare, using a written questionnaire containing statements with a five-point Likert scale for choice of answers. Students consider good animal welfare necessary for sustainability of farming systems and food quality and safety, ranking particular issues in the following order, biological functioning > natural living > emotional states. Students also believe that cattle and pigs have greater cognitive abilities and that their welfare is less compromised in comparison with poultry, whereas standard management procedures performed in pig production are perceived as more humane than beak-trimming in poultry. In addtion, students tend to consider pain in farm animals caused by management procedures only when these procedures involved the affliction of significant pain. There were no differences between attitude scores on most of the statements from first-year students before and after the course. Furthermore, for the majority of statements, the mean responses were lower in final-year students, suggesting a lower level of empathy toward farm animals. Although similar results have also been recorded elsewhere in the world, these results raise concerns as to the ability of these future veterinarians to promote good farm animal welfare in the country and abroad. The results also suggest a need to modify veterinary student education in Croatia in the field of farm animal welfare.
Kangaroo harvesters and the euthanasia of orphaned young-at-foot: applying the theory of planned behaviour to an animal welfare issue
Authors: Sharp TM , McLeod SR
Published: January 2016

When female kangaroos are shot during commercial harvesting, it is a requirement that dependent young-at-foot are euthanased. However, there are anecdotal reports that harvesters either cannot euthanase young-at-foot (eg they do not see them or they flee) or will not (eg they do not think it is necessary). In this study we used the theory of planned behaviour to understand the beliefs, attitudes and behaviour of kangaroo harvesters with regards to the euthanasia of young-at-foot. We firstly conducted a survey of a small number of kangaroo harvesters (n = 21) to gather information to develop the main questionnaire. Recruitment of participants was conducted using a number of approaches including a mail out of over 600 pen-and-paper questionnaires to harvesters in NSW, QLD and SA, Australia. We received completed questionnaires from 65 harvesters. Behaviour was directly observed in only 14 harvesters. The results indicated that those kangaroo harvesters with a more favourable attitude towards euthanasing young-at-foot and who feel more social pressure to do so are more likely to intend to euthanase young-at-foot. However, intention to euthanase orphaned young-at-foot only rarely translated into actual behaviour. The participating harvesters believe that euthanasing young-at-foot reduces joey suffering; that government kangaroo management agencies and farmers and graziers approve of them doing it (but animal protection groups do not); and that the greatest limiting factor preventing them from euthanasing young at-foot is that they escape. This research revealed deficiencies in knowledge and training of kangaroo harvesters with regard to humane harvesting practices. We conclude that the use of social psychology methodology and frameworks, such as the theory of planned behaviour, can provide a detailed insight into human attitudes and behaviours that affect animal welfare. This approach can reveal the most important specific factors to consider when training and educating personnel who have direct responsibility for the humane treatment of animals.
Assessment of aversion and unconsciousness during exposure to carbon dioxide at high concentration in lambs
Authors: Rodríguez P , Dalmau A , Manteca X , Litvan H , Jensen EW , Velarde A
Published: January 2016

The most widely used stunning method in sheep is electrical. However, in lambs, this method leads to rupture of the blood vessels, provoking ecchymoses. In pigs (Sus scrofa), the use of CO2-stunning systems has increased in popularity due to positive effects on meat quality and animal welfare (movement of animals in groups). The aim here was to assess the effectiveness of a progressive exposure to 90% carbon dioxide (CO2) in inducing unconsciousness in lambs (Ovis aries) through changes in the middle latency auditory-evoked potentials (MLAEP) of the central nervous system (CNS), blood parameters (pH, carbon dioxide partial pressure (pCO2), oxygen partial pressure (pO2), oxygen saturation (SatO2) and bicarbonate (HCO3J, behaviour (head-shaking, sneezing, gasping and gagging) and physiological reflexes (corneal reflex, breathing and sensitivity to pain). Fourteen male lambs of the Ripollesa breed, weighing between 19 and 25 kg were progressively exposed to an atmosphere of 90% CO2over 66 s. All blood parameters changed between 23 and 43 s after the onset of the immersion. The MLAEP did not decrease significantly until after 48 s exposure to CO2, suggesting an absence of auditory-evoked brain activity. Before that, lambs exhibited head-shaking and sneezing starting at 10.6 (± 0.77) s, and gasping starting at 20.6 (± 1.36) s. After exposure, all animals showed absence of breathing and sensibility to pain, and 36% of them absence of corneal reflex. The pH and pCO2recovered basal values at 90 and 120 s, respectively, after the end of the exposure. The burst suppression index (BS%) and the A-Line ARX index (AAI) recovered basal levels at 116 and 159 s, respectively. Exposure to CO2at high concentration induces effective stunning in sheep for a period of 124 s. However, during exposure, the animals exhibited signs of aversion and breathlessness.
Assédio no ritual da praxe académica numa universidade pública portuguesa
Authors: Oliveira Catarina Sales , Villas-Boas Susana , Las Heras Soledad
Published: January 2016

A praxe académica consiste num conjunto de práticas que visam a receção e integração dos novos e das novas estudantes. O presente estudo teve como objetivo servir de suporte empírico para um debate social e institucional sobre a praxe, com base numa abordagem analítica, apoiada no conceito de assédio moral. Para tal, aplicou-se uma adaptação do questionário de assédio moral Leymann Inventory of Psychological Terror (LIPT). Os resultados obtidos indicam que a esmagadora maioria dos e das participantes (92,8%) indicou ter sido exposta a alguma situação de assédio moral durante a praxe e que os comportamentos de assédio moral mais frequentes estão relacionados com a limitação da comunicação e o desprestígio das pessoas.
Contrato psicológico e estágio profissional em advocacia
Authors: Cruz Sofia Alexandra , Fernandes Suzana
Published: January 2016

O contrato psicológico tornou-se nas últimas décadas uma problemática amplamente discutida nas ciências sociais e empresariais. O presente artigo mobiliza o conceito de contrato psicológico para o estudo do estágio em advocacia, uma profissão em que ainda não havia sido empregue, contribuindo assim para a sua densificação teórica. A partir de entrevistas semiestruturadas a advogados estagiários, revela-se a existência de contratos psicológicos no âmbito da sua relação profissional com os patronos e discutem-se as formas específicas que os contratos psicológicos transacional e equilibrado assumem no estágio em advocacia.
Whole-brain imaging reaches new heights (and lengths)
Authors: Albanese Alexandre , Chung Kwanghun
Published: January 2016

Advances in microscopy and sample preparation have led to the first ever mapping of individual neurons in the whole mouse brain.
Enhanced absorption and fluorescence of gold nanoclusters using initial alkali concentrations
Authors: Nguyen Trong Nghia , Do Thi Hue , Nguyen Dinh Hoang , Vu Duong , Do Quang Hoa , Tran Hong Nhung , Nghiem Thi Ha Lien
Published: January 2016

Understanding carrier dynamics and electromagnetic interactions between emerging quantum-confined nanostructures and plasmonic structures is crucial for future biological applications. In this research, we fabricate gold monolayer-protected clusters (AuMPC). We demonstrate enhanced light absorption and fluorescence of AuMPCs by varying the initial alkali concentration. We measure absorption bands enhanced up to nine times with extended and distinct features centered at 3.33 eV, and fluorescence enhanced up to 3.9 times. An increased alkali concentration changes the charge transfer capability of the surface thiolate ligands through sulfur-gold bonds, which in turn enhance/reduce the fluorescence intensity.
A Feasibility Trial of a Novel Approach to Depression Prevention: Targeting Proximal Risk Factors and Application of a Model of Health-Behaviour Change
Authors: Bradley Kristina L. , Santor Darcy A. , Oram Rylee
Published: January 2016

We aimed to develop and conduct a feasibility trial of a brief intervention to target proximal risk factors (i.e., cognitive vulnerability) to prevent depression, as well as to improve understanding of the mechanism of change in our prevention program by the incorporation of the theory of planned behaviour. Thirty-seven university students participated in an open feasibility trial of a brief CBT-based depression prevention program. Participants completed an online questionnaire pre- and post-intervention. Results indicated that participants experienced pre- to post-intervention improvements in their self-perceived capacity to learn strategies and an increase in positive affect, demonstrating its preliminary effectiveness in reducing risk factors for depression.
miR‐33a‐5p modulates TNF‐α‐inhibited osteogenic differentiation by targeting SATB2 expression in hBMSCs
Authors: Mi Wenxiang , Shi Qiongling , Chen Xipeng , Wu Tingting , Huang Hui
Published: January 2016

miRNAs play a number of roles in bone, including mediating the pathological effects of inflammation. Here, we found that miR‐33a‐5p expression was significantly increased after TNF‐α treatment during BMP‐2‐induced osteogenic differentiation of hBMSCs. Luciferase reporter assays and western blotting demonstrated that special AT‐rich sequence‐binding protein 2 (SATB2) is a target of miR‐33a‐5p. Moreover, we show that BMP‐2 induces SATB2 expression by interacting with SATB2 directly via the BMP‐2–RUNX2 pathway. However, TNF‐α first decreases SATB2 expression by inhibiting miR‐33a‐5p degradation. We thus conclude that miR‐33a‐5p plays a central role in this complex regulatory network. These findings will help to understand the regulatory role of miR‐33a‐5p in the inflammatory process.
Membrane interactions and self‐association of components of the Ess/Type VII secretion system of Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Jäger Franziska , Zoltner Martin , Kneuper Holger , Hunter William N. , Palmer Tracy
Published: January 2016

The Ess/Type VII protein secretion system, essential for virulence of pathogenic Staphylococcus aureus, is dependent upon the four core membrane proteins EssA, EssB, EssC and EsaA. Here, we use crosslinking and blue native PAGE analysis to show that the EssB, EssC and EsaA proteins individually form homomeric complexes. Surprisingly, these components appear unable to interact with each other, or with the EssA protein. We further show that two high molecular weight multimers of EssC detected in whole cells are not dependent upon the presence of EsxA, EsxB or any other Ess component for their assembly.
HDX‐MS and deletion analysis of the type 4 secretion system protein TraF from the Escherichia coli F plasmid
Authors: Lento Cristina , Ferraro Michele , Wilson Derek , Audette Gerald F.
Published: January 2016

Conjugative DNA transfer by the F‐plasmid is achieved through a type IV secretion system (T4SS) encoded within the plasmid's transfer region; TraF is one of several F‐T4SS proteins essential for F‐pilus assembly. In order to identify regions of the protein important for TraF function, a series of deletion mutants were assessed for their ability to recover conjugative transfer in a traF knockout. Interestingly, modification of any region of TraF abolishes pilus synthesis, resulting in a loss of rescue of conjugative function. Dynamic analysis of TraF by time‐resolved hydrogen–deuterium exchange revealed that the C‐terminal region containing the predicted thioredoxin‐like domain is quite structured, while the N‐terminal region, predicted to interact with TraH in the intact F‐T4SS, was more dynamic.
Low stability of the reduced state of Mycobacterium tuberculosis NrdH redoxin
Authors: Liu Ya‐Jun , Song Xiaxia , Li Yifei , Xuan Jinsong , Cui Qiu , Wang Jinfeng , Feng Yingang
Published: January 2016

NrdH redoxin is the only hydrogen donor for ribonucleotide reductase in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Several crystal structures of NrdH redoxins in the oxidized state from different species have been reported, but no structure of the reduced state has yet been reported. Using NMR spectroscopy, we found surprisingly that the reduced NrdH redoxin from M. tuberculosis is largely unfolded at a pH lower than the pKa of its first active site cysteine, and the structural basis of the low stability was analyzed. In addition, a single mutant of the NrdH redoxin suitable to determine the structure in the reduced state was obtained.
Effects of chaotic advection on the timescales of cooling and crystallization of magma bodies at mid crustal levels
Authors: Petrelli Maurizio , El Omari Kamal , Le Guer Yves , Perugini Diego
Published: January 2016

We numerically define the thermochemical evolution of a subduction‐related crystal‐bearing magmatic mass at mid crustal levels (0.7 GPa, 20–25 km). Two main dynamic mechanisms are considered: (1) a pure buoyancy‐driven system where the convective flow is induced by density changes during magma cooling; (2) a buoyancy‐driven convective system governed by chaotic advection. The non‐Newtonian rheology of natural magmas is taken into account linking the Herschel‐Bulkley formulation with the results of fractional crystallization experiments of magmas with the same composition and at the same conditions of temperature and pressure of the studied system. The latent heat of crystallization is also considered in order to address the thermal release in the system induced by the crystallization. Results indicate that the development of chaotic advection generates a complex thermochemical evolution of the system speeding up the crystallization process and the timing required to reach the jamming condition relative to the pure buoyancy‐driven convective system (nearly 2 times faster). Our results have important implications for both the rheological history of the magmatic body and the refilling of shallower magmatic systems. In particular, (1) a time‐dependent composition ranging from basalt to andesite can be extracted from an initial basaltic magmatic batch; (2) at the attainment of the maximum packing fraction (i.e., just before the jamming condition), homogeneous andesitic melts can be potentially extracted from the system; and (3) the development of chaotic advection within the system allows for the extraction of andesitic melt in shorter times compared to a buoyancy‐dominated system.
Crustal anisotropy beneath Pacific Ocean‐Islands from harmonic decomposition of receiver functions
Authors: Olugboji Tolulope Morayo , Park Jeffrey
Published: January 2016

Crustal anisotropy beneath ocean islands can be attributed to preferentially aligned minerals, cracks, or dike structures. Stacked with harmonic weighting, receiver functions from permanent ocean‐island stations display evidence of strong and distinct anisotropy parameters in the underlying crust and underplated layer. We analyze data for 11 IRIS‐GSN stations in the Pacific Ocean. We observe the prevalence of two‐lobed receiver function (RF) amplitude variations with back‐azimuth, consistent with “slow” tilted‐axis anisotropy. In most cases the anisotropy is accommodated in the underplated crust. Synthetic modeling of a representative station indicates that the strength of anisotropy of Vp=10% and Vs=5% is possible. The strike direction of the inferred symmetry axis tends to align with plate motion, with some scatter. At stations in the northwest Pacific i.e., KWAJ, TARA, and WAKE, the strike direction of the symmetry axis aligns with plate motion at the time of volcano emplacement. Beneath station POHA and the closest stations to the present‐day Hawaiian hotspot, alignment of the symmetry axis is almost orthogonal to the plate motion. We attribute the crustal anisotropy to the preferred alignment of dike structures that transported asthenospheric magma toward the seafloor volcanic edifice. Our results suggest that the thermal‐plume origin for ocean islands must be supplemented by tectonic‐stress heterogeneities that allow magma to penetrate the lithosphere via fractures. Magma‐transport fractures should align normal to the least‐compressive direction, which are predicted by theoretical models to align approximately with plate motion at the time of emplacement.
Satellite‐based empirical models linking river plume dynamics with hypoxic area and volume
Authors: Le Chengfeng , Lehrter John C. , Hu Chuanmin , Obenour Daniel R.
Published: January 2016

Satellite‐based empirical models explaining hypoxic area and volume variation were developed for the seasonally hypoxic (O2 < 2 mg L−1) northern Gulf of Mexico adjacent to the Mississippi River. Annual variations in midsummer hypoxic area and volume were related to Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer‐derived monthly estimates of river plume area (km2) and average, inner shelf chlorophyll a concentration (Chl a, mg m−3). River plume area in June was negatively related with midsummer hypoxic area (km2) and volume (km3), while July inner shelf Chl a was positively related to hypoxic area and volume. Multiple regression models using river plume area and Chl a as independent variables accounted for most of the variability in hypoxic area (R2 = 0.92) or volume (R2 = 0.89). These models explain more variation in hypoxic area than models using Mississippi River nutrient loads as independent variables. The results here also support a hypothesis that confinement of the river plume to the inner shelf is an important mechanism controlling hypoxia area and volume in this region.
Density duct formation in the wake of a travelling ionospheric disturbance: Murchison Widefield Array observations
Authors: Loi Shyeh Tjing , Cairns Iver H. , Murphy Tara , Erickson Philip J. , Bell Martin E. , Rowlinson Antonia , Arora Balwinder Singh , Morgan John , Ekers Ronald D. , Hurley‐Walker Natasha , Kaplan David L.
Published: January 2016

Geomagnetically aligned density structures with a range of sizes exist in the near‐Earth plasma environment, including 10–100 km wide VLF/HF wave‐ducting structures. Their small diameters and modest density enhancements make them difficult to observe, and there is limited evidence for any of the several formation mechanisms proposed to date. We present a case study of an event on 26 August 2014 where a travelling ionospheric disturbance (TID) shortly precedes the formation of a complex collection of field‐aligned ducts, using data obtained by the Murchison Widefield Array (MWA) radio telescope. Their spatiotemporal proximity leads us to suggest a causal interpretation. Geomagnetic conditions were quiet at the time, and no obvious triggers were noted. Growth of the structures proceeds rapidly, within 0.5 h of the passage of the TID, attaining their peak prominence 1–2 h later and persisting for several more hours until observations ended at local dawn. Analyses of the next 2 days show field‐aligned structures to be preferentially detectable under quiet rather than active geomagnetic conditions. We used a raster scanning strategy facilitated by the speed of electronic beamforming to expand the quasi‐instantaneous field of view of the MWA by a factor of 3. These observations represent the broadest angular coverage of the ionosphere by a radio telescope to date.
A minimal probabilistic model for soil moisture in seasonally dry climates
Authors: Dralle David N. , Thompson Sally E.
Published: January 2016

In seasonally dry climates, a distinct rainy season is followed by a pronounced dry season during which rainfall often makes a negligible contribution to soil moisture. Using stochastic analytical models of soil moisture to represent the effects of this seasonal change has been hindered by the need to mathematically represent the stochastic influence of wet season climate on dry season soil water dynamics. This study presents a simple process‐based stochastic model for soil moisture dynamics, which explicitly models interseasonal transient dynamics while accounting for carry over soil moisture storage between the wet and dry seasons, and allows a derivation of an analytical expression for the dry season mean first passage time below a soil moisture threshold. Such crossing times pose controls on both vegetation productivity and water stress during dry summers. The new model, along with an existing model that incorporates nonzero dry season rainfall but not variability in the soil moisture condition at the start of the dry season, are tested against data from the Tonzi Ranch Ameriflux site. Both models predict first passage times well for high soil moisture thresholds, but the new model improves prediction at lower thresholds. The annual soil moisture probability distribution function (PDF) from the new model also compares well with observations.
Continuous higher order sliding mode control with adaptation of air breathing hypersonic missile
Authors: Yu Polk , Shtessel Yuri , Edwards Christopher
Published: January 2016

Hypersonic missile control in the terminal phase is addressed using continuous adaptive higher order sliding mode (AHOSM) control with adaptation. The AHOSM self‐tuning controller is proposed and studied. The double‐layer adaptive algorithm is based on equivalent control concepts and ensures non‐overestimation of the control gain to help mitigating control chattering. The proposed continuous AHOSM control is validated via simulations of a hypersonic missile in the terminal phase. The robustness and high‐accuracy output tracking in the presence of matched and unmatched external disturbances and missile model uncertainties is demonstrated. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.