bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relating Cost Efficiency and Profitability of Merged Firms in the Kenyan Financial Services Industry
Authors: Ogada Agnes , Achoki George , Njuguna Amos
Published: June 2016

Theory holds that firms merge to benefit from economies of scale, diversification and synergy, which are realized through cost efficiency. Empirical studies on the other hand report mixed findings with regard to the theoretical underpinnings given the changing financial and technological environment. This paper sought to determine the cost efficiency ratios of merged firms in the Kenyan financial services industry and establish the effect that those ratios have on profitability (inferred using the rates of return on assets and equity). Using a mixed research design, pre and post-merger secondary data was collected from 41 firms in the Kenyan financial services industry that had concluded their merger processes by 31 December 2013. Primary data was used to explain the results of the secondary data. Panel data analysis was used to determine the change in the study variables and trends over between 2009 and 2013, event window (pre-merger and post-merger) analysis was used to test the difference in cost efficiency means before and after the merger while regression analysis was used to determine the relationship between cost efficiency and profitability. Results indicate that cost efficiency improved after merger and resulted to the growth in the rate of return on assets and equity, which was attributed to the efficiency in the use of labour, financial resources and managerial effort.
Fiscal Expenditure Incentives, Spatial Correlation and Quality of Economic Growth: Evidence from a Chinese Province
Authors: Qi Jiangyi
Published: June 2016

This paper constructs an index system to evaluate economic growth quality. After taking into account the spatial correlation, the impact of public expenditure on economic growth quality is investigates by using panel data from a Chinese province during 2007 and 2014. In this analysis, different levels of economic growth quality and fiscal expenditure are considered. The results reveal that (1) Economic growth quality should be measured not only from scale but also from structure, performance and coordination. (2) There is agglomeration effect because local government fiscal expenditure greatly promotes local region economic growth, and this rule not only embodies in scale, but also in performance and coordination. (3) The spatial spillover effect of neighbouring government fiscal expenditure on local economic growth quality cannot be ignored, and different fiscal expenditure represents different results. There is complex spatial correlation among governments and corporation relationship among regions is very important. Finally, some policies about fiscal exnpenditure and economic development are proposed.
Corporate Social Responsibility and Consumer Buying Behavior in Emerging Market: A Mixed Method Study
Authors: Butt Irfan
Published: June 2016

A number of companies are involved in various social responsibility programs aimed at increasing consumer trust in their services and improve overall image of the firm. This phenomenon is prevalent in developed world but is still new in emerging economies. In a developing country like Pakistan, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is affected by various factors. The purpose of this mixed method study is to examine key antecedents to consumer responses to CSR to determine a link between CSR activity and consumers’ responses to such actions. After a qualitative study, a pre-tested structured questionnaire was administered to 224 respondents. The constructs were validated using confirmatory factor analysis and regression analysis was conducted to test hypotheses. It was found that purchase intention was impacted by perceived CSR which was positively influenced by awareness while trust played a pivotal role as a mediator between CSR and purchase intention. Surprisingly, religiosity was not significantly related to CSR. The study was conducted using a hypothetical company; however more insight might be gained if the company name was used since certain consumer patterns are brand specific.
A Study on Employee’s Motivation towards Employee Performance in Private University, Selangor, Malaysia
Authors: Selvanathan Mahiswaran , Selladurai Sugumaran , Madina Ganibay , Rahman Radziah Abdul , Shaik Dawood Noor Shemah Mohamed
Published: June 2016

Human Resource is considered main asset in an organisation because the employees are the one that will contribute in productivity of the organization. Motivation and performance of the employees are crucial in determining the the effectiveness of an organization. Many factors affect employee performance in the long run. This paper will evaluate and identify the factors that influence employees’ performance. This paper aims to analyze four factors which are, working environment, motivation, personal problem and training. The data has been presented in the form of frequency tables and the histogram chart. The data has been analysed to see whether it meets the objectives or not. A total of 175 employees from SEGi University were the respondents of the present study. Therefore, the findings shows that, two variables which are working environment and motivation that have significant relationship on employees’ performance. Overall, the findings of this research will assist to an effective and better implementation for future researcher on the factors influencing employees’ performance.
Audit Quality, Joint-Auditors and Game Theory: Empirical Validation in the French Context
Authors: Ben Ali Abdelhakim
Published: June 2016

The objective of our research is to show the role of “game theory” as a scientific discipline permitting better explanation of the nature of complex relationships between the different stakeholders of the company. Motivated by the current discussions on the choice of the composition of the college auditors, we try to study the combination of auditors to ensure a better audit quality; and to demonstrate the gains and losses of the two players in the game studied during the period 2005-2010.
The empirical results reveal that the best audit quality is conditioned by the presence of pair heterogeneous auditors (Big4_Non Big4). Added to that, the audit quality is affected by a high level of audit fees, minimizing the debt ratio, a large reflection of the business performance and financial means to enable it to meet the economic crises that surround it.
The Evolution of Theories of MNEs: Minimizing the Liability of Foreignness through Globally Intelligent Subunits
Authors: Abdullah Zainap Binti
Published: June 2016

This paper reviews the typology of the evolution of theories of multinational enterprises (MNEs) within the past century. Looking back at historical events and the development of theories of multinational enterprises (MNEs), we see that wartime economies contributed significantly to economic and social distress. Postwar devastation brought about technological setbacks. This paper observes the importance of technology and knowledge as the fundamental elements that revived the world’s economic state and firms’ competitive advantage. Through the acquisition and integration of technology and knowledge, the infrastructure for foreign direct investments created economic stabilization and reduced technological stagnation. This paper provides a conceptual framework that suggests that in order for MNEs to sustain profitability and competitive advantage and to survive, they must capitalize on foreign investments abroad. However, investing in an overseas market creates unfamiliarity that can be costly. This is known as the “liability of foreignness.” Therefore, this paper provides six criteria for MNEs to consider in minimizing the liability of foreignness. It also introduces the concept of “global intelligence,” defined as creating foreign subunits that are dynamically capable of intellectual understanding of the global economic, political, and cultural requirements of a foreign market. These requirements may include sensing, seizing, and transforming information in order to be aware of a country’s policies, trade regulations, and language, as well as geographic and resource acuity. Finally, the paper suggests that the combination of these six criteria and “global intelligence” may drive MNEs’ performance by overcoming the costs of doing business abroad, creating “globally intelligent subunits” within the home country and exporting them to a host-country market.
Validation Evidence for the Work Domain Satisfaction Scale in Two Languages
Authors: Bérubé Nicole , Donia Magda B. L. , Gagné Marylène , Houlfort Nathalie , Lvina Elena
Published: June 2016

We used the samples of six studies to validate the Work Domain Satisfaction Scale (WDSS), a global, five-item and mid-level measure of work domain well-being. English and French versions of the scale were included in the studies to assess the stability of the instrument across these languages. Confirmatory factor analysis yielded a one-factor structure, which was shown invariant across languages and samples. Test-retest reliability of the scale was high, indicating that it measures a stable construct over time. Confirmatory factor analysis also provided evidence that satisfaction with work, measured with the WDSS, is related, but conceptually and empirically distinct from both life satisfaction and job satisfaction. The WDSS was also correlated in predictable ways with affective organizational commitment, a measure of how attached people are to their organizations. Work domain satisfaction also explained a significant amount of variance in affective organizational commitment, beyond job satisfaction. Moreover, the WDSS was positively related to inclusion of work into the self, a psychological variable that reflects the importance of work in the lives of individuals. The results indicate that the WDSS is a reliable, stable, and valid mid-level measure of satisfaction with work as a domain within people’s lives.
Main Reasons against Unnatural Marriage and Its Wreckful Role in the Institution of Marriage and Family
Authors: Rasolipour Rasoul , Roshan Mohammd , Nikandam Shapour
Published: June 2016

The role of marriage and family strengthening with regard to religious commandments and ethics is not concealed from people who follow the divine commands and basic teachings of the Holy books and prophets. However, nowadays in many western societies, the principles of natural marriage are violated. The new forms of marriage are called abnormal, unnatural, and unusual forms of marriage among individuals including the same or opposite sex. Unnatural marriage can’t be classified as a natural and legal contract. Note that both natural and unnatural forms of marriage have their own principles. Therefore, the recent research aims at analyzing the main reasons against unnatural marriage using analytical and library methods with regard to the fact that unnatural marriage has threatened standard marriage and family foundation. In this research, we rely on verses of Quran. All the data have been gathered by experts in the field of family affairs especially those who witnessed homosexual marriage and observed both personal and social difficulties of homosexual individuals. 
Growth dynamics of Anadenanthera colubrina var. ,i>cebil and Tabebuia impetiginosa from Pantanal Mato-grossense, Brazil.
Authors: Mattos Patrícia Póvoa de , Seitz Rudi Arno
Published: June 2016

There is a great demand for wood within tropical natural forests and a scarcity of available data to carry out a management program. It is of great importance, therefore, that growth ring information is being enhanced. The Pantanal of Nhecolândia, sub-region of Pantanal Mato-grossense, may be viewed as one of these regions. Its natural forests are systematically cut to be used as solid wood or fuel, or replaced by cultivated pastures. Peculiar climatic and soil factors of Nhecolandia induce the formation of annual growth rings. This work aims at determining the radial increments of Anadenanthera colubrina var. cebil and Tabebuia impetiginosa by growth ring analysis. Disks from eight trees of Anadenanthera colubrina var. cebil and six of Tabebuia impetiginosa were collected, in July 1996, in Nhumirim Farm, Embrapa Pantanal, located in Nhecolandia sub-region. The trees of Anadenanthera colubrina var. cebil and Tabebuia impetiginosa were 14 to 30 and 15 to 30 years old, respectively. Diameter increment varied from 5.4 to 8.0 mm/year for Anadenanthera colubrina var. cebil and from 4.8 to 11.6 mm/year for Tabebuia impetiginosa. The average estimated time for both species to reach a diameter of 40 cm was 55 years.
Avaliação da relação densidade e diâmetro em povoamento de Pinus taeda.
Authors: Schneider Paulo Sérgio Pigatto , Fleig Frederico Dimas , Schneider Paulo Renato , Finger César Augusto Guimarães
Published: June 2016

O presente trabalho foi desenvolvido com o objetivo de estudar a eficiência dos modelos que expressam a relação de densidade e diâmetro em povoamentos de Pinus taeda L. manejados em densidade completa e altamente estocados. Para isso, foram ajustados os modelos de Reineke, Yoda, Zeide e Tang, que relacionam a densidade de árvores por hectare com o diâmetro médio, por meio de dados originados de cinqüenta parcelas permanentes, medidas anualmente até os 18 anos, implantadas em espaçamento de 1,5x1,0 e 2,0x1,0 m e mantidas em densidade completa. Os resultados indicam que todos os modelos de densidade e diâmetro e autodesbaste apresentaram boa precisão estatística, porém o modelo de Tang foi mais eficiente que os demais na estimativa dos valores de densidade de árvores por hectare por diâmetro médio, tendo apresentado ótimo coeficiente de determinação igual a 0,99, baixo erro padrão da estimativa igual a 0,0948, baixo coeficiente de variação igual a 1,17 %, mínima tendência com valor igual a 0,0086, elevada eficiência com valor igual a 0,8976, boa distribuição dos resíduos do número de árvores por hectare em função do diâmetro médio do povoamento.
Relações alométricas para Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) De Wit.
Authors: Aleixo Valdemir , Malavasi Ubirajara Contro , Calegário Natalino , Malavasi Marlene de Matos , Macedo Júnior Eurides Küster
Published: June 2016

Ecossistemas florestais são responsáveis pelo maior acúmulo de carbono da biosfera terrestre. A quantificação da biomassa para espécies florestais vem contribuir com informações diretas sobre seu potencial para o seqüestro do carbono atmosférico. O ensaio objetivou ajustar equações que permitam estimar a biomassa aérea e subterrânea de Leucaena Leucocephala (Lam.) De Wit por meio do método direto. Para estimar a potencialidade da Leucaena leucocephala na fixação do carbono, foi utilizado o fator de conversão 0,5. Do total da biomassa e do carbono em indivíduos de Leucaena leucocephala, 24% correspondem ao sistema radicular e 76% correspondem ao sistema aéreo. De forma geral, a biomassa total apresentou a distribuição: fuste > galhos vivos > raízes > folhas. O modelo linear com transformação logarítmica utilizando CAP variável independente foi estatisticamente significativa para estimar biomassa seca total.
Ocorrência de associação micorrízica em seis essências florestais nativas do estado do Rio Grande do Sul.
Authors: Andreazza Robson , Antoniolli Zaida Inês , Oliveira Vetúria Lopes de , Leal Lineu Trindade , Moro Junior Carlos Augusto , Pieniz Simone
Published: June 2016

Ao favorecer o crescimento das plantas hospedeiras, a micorriza pode ser um fator importante para as essências florestais nativas do estado do Rio Grande do Sul. O objetivo deste trabalho foi identificar o tipo de micorriza em seis espécies florestais do Estado: pinheiro-do-paraná (Araucaria angustifolia (Bertol.) Kuntze), timbaúva (Enterolobium contortisiliquum (Vell.) Morong), canafístula (Peltophorum dubium (Spreng) Taub), ipê-amarelo (Tabebuia chrysotricha (Mart. ex DC.) Standl.), ipê-roxo (Tabebuia heptaphylla (Well.) Toledo) e grápia (Apuleia leiocarpa (Vogel) J.F. Macbr). O estudo foi desenvolvido na Fepagro Floresta - Boca do Monte, Santa Maria, em bosques de espécies nativas e plantadas. As amostras de raízes, os corpos de frutificação dos fungos e o solo foram analisados no laboratório. As raízes foram processadas e analisadas quanto ao tipo de micorriza presente. Os fungos ectomicorrízicos nativos encontrados foram identificados, isolados e mantidos em cultura. As espécies estudadas não apresentaram colonização ectomicorrízica, embora em alguns locais tenham sido encontrados esporocarpos próximos às plantas. A associação com micorrizas arbusculares foi encontrada em todas as espécies de essências florestais nativas estudadas.
Avaliação de modelos de afilamento não-segmentados na estimação da altura e volume comercial de Eucalyptus sp.
Authors: Souza Carlos Alberto Martinelli de , Silva Gilson Fernandes da , Xavier Alexandre Cândido , Mendonça Adriano Ribeiro de , Almeida André Quintão de
Published: June 2016

Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar diferentes modelos de afilamento na estimativa da altura comercial, volume comercial e volumes ao longo do fuste de Eucalyptus sp. para a obtenção de multiprodutos. Com base em dados de cubagem rigorosa de árvores-amostras com idade de 16 anos, foram avaliados os modelos de afilamento de Demaerschalk (1972), Ormerod (1973), Schöepfer (1966), Hradetzky (1976), Garay (1979) e Biging (1984). Baseado na análise gráfica dos resíduos e nas estatísticas bias (B), média das diferenças (MD) e desvio-padrão das diferenças (DPD), verificou-se que, para estimativa da altura comercial e do volume comercial os modelos de Biging, Schöepfer e Hradetzky apresentaram os melhores resultados, acompanhados do modelo de Garay que apresentou melhora considerável para o volume comercial. De forma geral, nas condições estudadas, o modelo de Biging apresentou maior estabilidade na estimativa dos volumes ao longo do fuste.
A importância relativa da densidade da madeira e do teor de carboidratos no rendimento de polpa e na qualidade do produto.
Authors: Mokfienski Alfredo , Colodette Jorge Luiz , Gomide José Lívio , Carvalho Ana Márcia M. Ladeira
Published: June 2016

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a densidade básica, a composição química e as dimensões de fibras de dez amostras de madeira de Eucalyptus spp. e, verificar o impacto desse conjunto de parâmetros e sua combinação no rendimento do processo de polpação kraft e na qualidade da polpa branqueada. A madeira de dez espécies de eucalipto, com densidade básica variando entre 365 a 544 kg/m3 e teores de carboidratos totais variando entre 70,0 a 74,5% foi transformada em polpa Kraft, com número kappa 15,5-16,7 e branqueada a 90% ISO por uma seqüência de quatro estágios (OD(PO)D) composta de deslignificação com oxigênio (O), deslignificação com dióxido de cloro (D),  extração alcalina com peróxido pressurizado (PO) e branqueamento com dióxido de cloro (D). A densidade básica da madeira mostrou melhor correlação com as dimensões da fibra e qualidade da polpa que a sua composição química. Porém o rendimento depurado foi mais influenciado pela composição química da madeira do que pela densidade básica. Madeiras de menor densidade apresentaram maiores rendimentos de polpação, mas o consumo específico de madeira foi mais baixo para as madeiras mais densas. Os resultados de qualidade de polpa sugerem que madeiras com densidade mais baixa devam ser direcionadas à fabricação de papel refinado (impressão e de escrita), enquanto que as mais densas sejam destinadas ao segmento de papéis sanitários (tissue).
Crescimento de espécies nativas da Amazônia submetidas ao plantio no estado de Roraima.
Authors: Tonini Helio , Oliveira Junior Moisés Mourão Cordeiro de , Schwengber Dalton
Published: June 2016

Um importante desafio para a pesquisa florestal na Amazônia é o de encontrar formas de reflorestar áreas degradadas com a utilização de um maior número de espécies nativas e identificar espécies tropicais comercialmente atrativas adaptadas a plantios a pleno sol. Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o crescimento inicial em diâmetro e altura de seis espécies nativas da Amazônia em um ensaio preliminar de espécies. Os dados para a realização deste estudo foram oriundos de remedições de 72 árvores em um período de 9 anos. As espécies selecionadas para este trabalho foram a cupiúba (Goupia glabra), o cumaru (Dipterix odorata), a andiroba (Carapa guianensis), a castanheira-do-brasil (Bertholletia excelsa), o pará-pará (Jacaranda copaia) e a tatajuba (Bagassa guianensis). As curvas cumulativas de crescimento em diâmetro e altura foram obtidas  pelo ajuste da função de Chapman-Richards. Apesar da pouca idade dos plantios, obteve-se bom ajuste da função para as espécies estudadas, sendo o pará-pará a espécie que apresentou maior crescimento em diâmetro e altura em todas as idades. A análise do incremento médio anual em diâmetro indicou que, com exceção da cupiúba, pode-se esperar incrementos médios superiores a 2 cm, mediante a adoção de espaçamentos e programas de desbaste adequados.
Florística e classificação da regeneração natural em Floresta Ombrófila Mista na Floresta Nacional de São Francisco de Paula, RS.
Authors: Narvaes Igor da Silva , Longhi Solon Jonas , Brena Doádi Antônio
Published: June 2016

Na floresta Ombrófila Mista, a regeneração natural é pouco estudada. No Rio Grande do Sul, em conseqüência da ação antrópica, essas florestas se encontram sob diferentes condições de alteração, em alguns casos formando fragmentos. O estudo teve como objetivo analisar a florística da regeneração natural e verificar a ocorrência de grupos florísticos de uma área onde não foram constatadas alterações intensas. A área com 1606,69 ha localiza-se na Floresta Nacional de São Francisco de Paula (entre 29° 23' e 29° 27' S; 50° 23' e 50° 25' W), no município de São Francisco de Paula, RS. No estudo, foram selecionadas seis parcelas permanentes de crescimento do PELD (Projeto Ecológico de Longa Duração) cuja vegetação foi inventariada, utilizando-se dez faixas paralelas entre si e perpendiculares à direção da posição topográfica, as quais apresentaram 10 m de largura e 100 m de comprimento, subdivididas em dez unidades de 100 m² onde foram sorteadas três unidades amostrais por faixa para identificação e medição (altura e circunferência) de indivíduos com Cap maior ou igual a 3 cm e menor de 30 cm. Os cipós, trepadeiras e ervas também tiveram suas circunferências medidas e identificados até o nível de espécie, quando possível. Os dados de densidade por espécie formaram uma matriz (180x70) utilizada na análise multivariada. A presença de agrupamento de vegetação em estado de regeneração natural no interior da floresta foi testada pelo Método TWINSPAN (Two-way indicator species analysis). Constatou-se a existência de três grupos ecológicos (G-1, G-2 e G-3). O G-1 foi caracterizado por boa disponibilidade hídrica, por possuir características ambientais intermediárias e por situar-se na posição topográfica referente à encosta média; G-2 ocorreu na encosta inferior da floresta, apresentando forte influência da umidade e sujeita a alagamentos esporádicos; e G-3, na posição topográfica da encosta superior/platô, que, por conseguinte, não sofre influência da elevação da umidade. As espécies indicadoras dos grupos foram: Sebastiania brasiliensis Spreng. (G-1); Matayba elaeagnoides Radek., Myrceugenia myrcioides Cambess O. Berg, Myrceugenia oxysepala (Burret) D. Legrand et Kausel e Cinnamomum glaziovii (Mez) Kosterm. (G-2); e Zanthoxylum petiolare A. St.-Hil  & Tul. (G-3).
Análise faunística de himenópteros visitantes florais em fragmento de cerradão em Itirapina, SP.
Authors: D'Avila Márcia , Marchini Luis Carlos
Published: June 2016

As abelhas são consideradas os mais eficientes polinizadores. Desse modo, possuem papel indiscutível na reprodução das plantas, aumento da qualidade e quantidade de frutos e sementes e, conseqüentemente, na manutenção dos ecossistemas. O cerrado é um dos ecossistemas mais afetados pelo crescimento das atividades humanas, diminuindo drasticamente sua biodiversidade. A análise faunística além de identificar as espécies e o tamanho das populações, também pode indicar o grau de impacto ambiental numa determinada área. O levantamento dos himenópteros visitantes florais foi realizado quinzenalmente, no período de março de 2003 a fevereiro de 2004, em área de cerradão, com aproximadamente 40 ha, na Estação Experimental de Itirapina, SP. Foram coletados 181 indivíduos, e a família Apidae apresentou maior número de espécies e abundância de indivíduos. As abelhas, Apis mellifera com 55,8%, seguida de Trigona spinipes com 14,4% e Exomalopsis (Exomalopsis) sp. com 8,3% foram as predominantes. Dentre as abelhas coletadas, 30,8% das espécies são sociais e 69,2% das espécies são solitárias. Do total de himenópteros coletados, 59,7% preferiram o período da manhã e 40,3% o período da tarde para forrageamento e/ou visita. O índice de diversidade de espécies (H) (Shannon-Wiener) foi 1,6933, a variância (H) foi 0,0123 e o índice de uniformidade (E) foi 0,5652, seguindo padrão encontrado em outras áreas de cerrado.
Classificação e crescimento de unidades de vegetação em Floresta Ombrófila Mista, São Francisco de Paula, RS.
Authors: Gomes Juliana Fernandes , Longhi Solon Jonas , Araújo Maristela Machado , Brena Doádi Antônio
Published: June 2016

Este trabalho foi desenvolvido com o objetivo estudar diferentes grupos ecológicos presentes na Floresta Ombrófila Mista da FLONA de São Francisco de Paula, RS, e descrever sua composição e dinâmica de crescimento nas quatro estações do ano. Na avaliação, foram utilizados dez conglomerados permanentes de 1 ha cada (100 x 100 m), os quais foram divididos em dez faixas de 10 x 100 m (1000 m2) e estas subdivididas em dez subunidades de 10 x 10 m (100 m2). Para  a  pesquisa, foi sorteada uma faixa de 10 x 100 m em cada conglomerado, totalizando cem unidades amostrais em que foram instaladas, na altura do DAP, bandas dendrométricas em todas as árvores com CAP ≥ 30 cm, para acompanhar o crescimento anual e nas quatro estações do ano. Os dados de densidade por espécie formaram uma matriz (parcela x espécie), que foi utilizada na análise de agrupamento da vegetação pelo do método de TWINSPAN (Two-way Indicador Species Analisys) na qual foi constatada a presença de três grupos ecológicos. O grupo 1 foi identificado como floresta primária, o grupo 2 floresta de locais úmidos e o grupo 3 floresta secundária. O incremento médio anual foi maior para floresta primária, seguido por floresta secundária e floresta de locais úmidos. Em ordem decrescente, o incremento médio periódico foi maior no verão, primavera, outono e inverno. As espécies que se destacaram em termos de densidade e incremento foram Cupania vernalis e Nectandra megapotamica.
Mining for Water: Using Billing Data to Characterize Residential Irrigation Demand
Authors: Boyer Mackenzie J. , Dukes Michael D. , Young Linda J. , Wang Chuan
Published: June 2016

Understanding current residential irrigation behaviors is essential for selecting the most effective conservation measures and determining which customers should be targeted for conservation outreach programs. This study stratified single‐family residential customers without access to reuse water into irrigating groups. Irrigation demands were calculated using monthly total (indoor and outdoor combined) water billing and parcel records for more than 165,000 customers in southwest Florida over approximately 10 years. Gross irrigation required (GIR) was calculated using parcel and high‐resolution site data. Seven‐and‐a‐half percent of customers used no irrigation over the study period, 67% of customers used 1 in./month or less, and 84% used less than the average monthly GIR of 2.2 in./month. Eighty‐five percent of customers were classified as occasional irrigators, whereas only 2% were classified as high irrigators. With such low estimated irrigation demands, this study reinforces the importance of selecting conservation methods so as to not inadvertently increase irrigation.
Heart rate variability and surface electromyography of trained cyclists at different cadences
Authors: Saraiva Bruno , Silva Ester , Simões Rodrigo Polaquini , Garcia Ana Paula Urdiales , Menegon Fabrício Augusto , Sakabe Daniel Iwai , Ortolan Rodrigo Lício , Martins Luiz Eduardo Barreto , Oliveira Lucien , Catai Aparecida Maria
Published: June 2016

The heart rate variability (HRV) and surface electromyography (sEMG) are important tools in the evaluation of cardiac autonomic system and neuromuscular parameters, respectively. The aim of the study was to evaluate the behavior of HRV and sEMG of the vastus lateralis in two exercise protocols on a cycle ergometer at 60 and 80 rpm. Eight healthy men cyclists who have trained for at least two years were evaluated. Reduction was observed followed by stabilization of RMSSD and SDNN indices of HRV (p<0.05) along with increases in the amplitude of the sEMG signal (p<0.05) in both protocols. Significant correlations were observed between the responses of HRV and sEMG in the cadence of 60 rpm (RMSSD and sEMG: r = -0.42, p=0.03; SDNN and sEMG: r = -0.45, p=0.01) and 80 rpm (RMSSD and sEMG: r = -0.47, p=0.02; SDNN and sEMG: r = -0.49, p=0.01), yet no difference was observed for these variables between the two protocols. We concluded that the parasympathetic cardiac responses and sEMG are independent of cadences applied at the same power output.
Identifier les individus créatifs par leur capacité d’imagerie mentale
Authors: Vellera Cyrielle , Gavard-Perret Marie-Laure
Published: June 2016

Le repérage des individus créatifs, notamment parmi les consommateurs de plus en plus souvent sollicités par les entreprises dans leurs processus d’innovation, s’avère difficile. Or, l’imagerie mentale semble être fortement liée à la créativité. Une première étude montre que des créatifs avérés (artistes et inventeurs) ont une capacité individuelle d’imagerie mentale supérieure à des individus « ordinaires » (sans capacité créative avérée). Une seconde étude souligne que des étudiants présentant une forte capacité individuelle d’imagerie mentale réussissent mieux des tâches créatives que ceux ayant une faible capacité d’imagerie mentale. La capacité d’imagerie apparait donc comme un moyen simple et rapide d’identification des individus créatifs et comme une opportunité pour améliorer la créativité.
Les jugements critiques du luxe : une approche par la légitimité
Authors: Roux Dominique , El Euch Maalej Mariem , Boyer Julie
Published: June 2016

Sur quoi portent les jugements des consommateurs qui se disent réfractaires au luxe et comment sont-ils fondés ? C’est ce que cet article se propose d’examiner à partir d’une étude qualitative menée auprès de vingt répondants affichant une posture critique à l’égard du luxe. Les résultats montrent que celle-ci s’articule autour de la notion de légitimité du luxe et engage des processus de jugement cognitif, pragmatique et moral, portant sur les entreprises/marques, leurs pratiques et les comportements de leur clientèle. Cette recherche illustre également le caractère contingent de la critique selon le contexte et la situation, ouvrant ainsi une série de recommandations sur les formes de légitimité dans ce secteur.
Resultados económicos y riesgo en los cítricos de la Comunidad Valenciana
Authors: Ahmed El Kamel Helmi , García Alvarez-Coque J.Mª
Published: June 2016

The purpose of this paper is to outline and adapt Sharpe's model to the agricultural activities as well as to measure the performance of crops when yield and risk are considered. The model is applied to the main varieties of citrus fruits in Valencia. For them, systematic and specific risks are measured and the yield-índex elasticities are quantified. Applying performance rates, we determine the economic yields of citrus varieties in the 1985-1997 period. In the same way, we focus on its management based on the previously outlines criteria.
Comportamiento de los sectores de la industria alimentaria desde la perspectiva de las tasas de absorción interna
Authors: Sala Rios Mercè
Published: June 2016

The present work, analyses the evolution of nourishment industry in the spanish economy in the period of 1986-1998. The objective is reach conclusions about specialized productivity, demand and exterior interchanges. These conclusions are based on each sector. The nourisment industry is divided into twelve sectors which will be treat. Definitively, it is about to evaluate main changes in diferents sectors of market by an accounting model which considers the equality between resources and employment. The model, will allow us to bring near terms as absorption rate, opening rate, penetration rate and cover rate. These terms are connected and they will be useful supporting our reasons.
Evolución económica y análisis de resultados en una muestra de explotaciones del occidentede Asturias (1993-1998)
Authors: Pérez Méndez José Antonio , Machado Cabezas Ángel
Published: June 2016

This research has a double aim: first, an analysis of economic evolution in a sample of 42 dairy farms from western Asturias in the period of 1993-1998, and second, a study of the final situation (1998), identifying the characteristics of the units with better economic results. To be able to do this, we study the evolution of labour productivity, the variation in the margin over concentrated feeds, the break-even point, and the added value and its distribution. The analysis of variance and the logistic regression allow us to identify the traits from farms with the highest profits in 1998, in the short and long run. The research points out the importance of a proper size in order to make indivisible factors like machinery, installations and labour profitable and the need for adequately managing all factors that determine the contribution margin per litre of milk.
Crecimiento económico y exclusión social en la agricultura familiar argentina
Authors: Lattuada Mario , Moyano Estrada Eduardo
Published: June 2016

This article focuses on the process of economic growth that Argentina underwent during the nineties and its effects on the Pampeana region’s farming sector. Its main goal is to contribute, from a sociological point of view, to the debate on the possibilities and limitations of family agriculture to reproduce itself in a context characterized by the implementation of structural ajustement programs. Firstly, the article describes the evolution of the most important economic indicators of Pampeana farming sector during the last decade. Secondly, it points out the different elements which both provoked the deterioration of the small farmers’ incomes and increased its social and economic weakness. Thirdly, it shows the growing debtment of Pampa farmers and, consequently, the reduction of the number of farms in that region. Finally, the authors offer some ideas on the process of social exclusion of small and middle farmers in a context of open markets where the role of the State is restricted. From starting of the European experiences, they propose changes for agricultural policies to be more sensitive to the social dimension of sustainability.
Eficiencia técnica en pesquerias multiespecie: Una aproximación primal
Authors: Orea Sánchez Luis , Álvarez Pinilla Antonio
Published: June 2016

The objective of this paper is to study, following a primal approach, the technical efficiency of a sample of boats which catch hake in Asturias. In this activity the catches of species different from hake are important. The multiproduct nature of this activity raises different modelling alternatives. In this paper we compare the results obtained in the estimation of an aggregate production function, a multiproduct production function, and a distance function. The three models are estimated using the within-groups estimator. After eliminating the influence of time invariant variables, the efficiency indexes are calculated in a second stage using the individual fixed effects. The empirical analysis uses a panel data set of eleven boats in 1999.
El seguro de ingresos como instrumento de estabilización de las rentas de los agricultores: Aplicación al sector olivarero español
Authors: Bielza Díaz-Caneja María , Garrido Colmenero Alberto , Sumpsi Viñas José M.
Published: June 2016

This paper analises a set of revenue stabilisation policies for Spanish olive oil growers, including yield and revenue insurance schemes. In theory and under certain assumptions, revenue insurance provides cheaper revenue stabilisation than a combination of price and yield insurance. After reviewing several revenue insurance experiences, an application is developed to compare various policies that include the actual production aid, tree aid, yield insurance and revenue insurance. The comparison is made taking into account the efficacy of public expenditure’s efficiency and the risk reduction potential. Results do not back the assertion that a revenue insurance scheme would be a superior policy than the current policy, that includes a production aid and yield insurance. It is shown that revenue insurance requires less reinsurance protection than yield insurance, making it cheaper on relative terms. Lastly, the analyses at provincial level show that the results of each studied policy are sharply different based on the risks and productivity that characterise each province.
Perturbaciones provocadas por la nueva PAC en las decisiones de ajuste estratégico en sistemas agrarios andaluces.
Authors: Gallardo Cobos Rosa , Ramos Real Fernando , Ramos Real Eduardo
Published: June 2016

The reforms of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) have selected instruments to protect continental crops, which are different from those used to support Mediterranean products. This fact has also led to different adjustment farming strategies. On the other hand, in areas where both types of products coexist, farmers are subject to conflicting instruments leading to contradictory economic rationale; this, in turn, poses an obstacle to pretended adjustment and modenisation processes. This paper approaches the analysis of the effects of the CAP reforms on some agricultural Andalusian systems which are endowed with both continental (mainly grains) and Mediterranean (mainly olives) products. Observed strategies seem to indicate that a large majority of farmers are inclined to consider decisional economic variables which tend to give priority to short term plans to maximize cash vis a vis the long run approach which seeks to remunerate all productive factors. Some indicators related to competitiveness are defined to quantify the above mentioned strategies. Using the results obtained for 1.998 some sensitivity tests are applied to Andalusian agricultural systems, referred above, during the period of the Agenda 2000; i.e. from 2000 to 2006.
Transmisión de precios en los mercados regionales de ovino en España
Authors: Boshnjaku L. , Ben-Kaabia B. , Gil José M.
Published: June 2016

The analysis of price relationships in commodity markets provides an approximate idea on markets performance as well as allows the researcher to analyze price responses to unanticipated shocks. The objective of this paper is to explore price relationships in geographical separated markets in the Spanish lamb sector. The methodology used is based on the specification of multivariate time series models which are flexible enough to take into account the stochastic properties of data, the multivariate nature of price relationships and to distinguish between short- and long-run horizons. Results indicate that lamb markets in Spain are strongly related being Zafra the leading market. The influence of Zafra is substantial in the southern markets while in the North, the Lonja del Ebro could be considered as the most representative market.
Estrategias empresariales y propensión exportadora de la industria agroalimentaria catalana y española
Authors: Ameur Mehrez , Gil José M.
Published: June 2016

In an increasing globalized environment, the agrofood firms’ competitiveness becomes a strategic need for future survival. Recent changes both in agrofood markets and consumers’ habits have encouraged firms to adopt adequate managerial strategies. The objective of this paper is to determine main factors affecting the exporting behavior of the agro-food firms. Data come from the Survey on Firms Strategies (ESEE). To achieve this objective, a model has been specified and estimated taking into account the characteristics of the database. The personnel qualification, the existence of foreign capital, the existence of potential benefits in foreign market and the firm’ age are the main factors explaining the agrofood firm decision to export. On the other hand, variables denoting firm size and domestic market concentration and saturation are more important to explain export intensity.
TRENDOVI U INDUSTRIJI SOFTVERA
Authors: Stankić Rade
Published: June 2016

U ovom radu su opisani najnoviji trendovi na tržištu softvera. IT industrija je veoma dinamična i neprekidno u pokretu.Veoma učestalo pojavljivanje novih proizvoda i različitih inovacija, stalno iznova definišu i redefinišu konstantnomenjanje ovog sektora. Međutim, u poslednje vreme izražena je još veća nestabilnost nego inače, i to je počelo da utičena kompanije koje proizvode poslovni softver. Kompanije koje su shvatile mogućnosti savremenih tehnologija i koje suuspele da naprave reinženjering svojih poslovnih procesa brzo su uhvatile korak sa savremenim načinom poslovanja, doksu organizacije koje nisu na vreme uspele da uvide značaj i važnost ove oblasti postale tržišno marginalizovane.
ZNAČAJ DEPOZITA KAO GLAVNOG IZVORA SREDSTAVA ZA LIKVIDNOST BANKE
Authors: Radović Rajko , Zorić Nina
Published: June 2016

U ovom radu prikazuje se značaj depozita kao glavnog izvora sredstava i njihov uticaj na likvidnost Banke. Posebnapažnja je obraćena na računovodstveni aspekt izvora i njihov odnos sa plasmanima. Prikazani su statistički podacipasivnih kamatnih stopa, ročne, valutne i institucionalne strukture.
KREDIBILITET MONETARNE POLITIKE
Authors: Milošević Miladin
Published: June 2016

Kredibilna monetarna politika je preduslov efikasnog sprovođenja mjera ekonomske politike u smislu smanjenaneizvijesnosti sa kojima se susreću ekonomski agenti. U državama koje su usvojile režime monetarne politike kojiuključuju aktivno vođenje monetarne politike, vrlo je bitno stvoriti ekonomsko okruženje u kome odluke monetarnihvlasti moraju biti sprovedene onako kako su i najavljene. Monetrane vlasti koje nisu u mogućnosti da sprovedu politikekoje su najavile ograničavaju ekonomski razvoj i efikasnost ekonomskog sistema. Na tržištu, ekonomski agenti seponašaju racionalno te svoje odluke donose na osnovu prethodnih poteza monetarnih vlasti kao i na osnovu pređviđanakako će se monetarne vlasti ponašati u budućnosti. Ekonomsko planiranje je svojevrsna igra monetarnih vlasti saracionalnim ekonomskim subjektima, tako da se u tom kontekstu politike trebaju posmatrati i kreirati.
Forståelse av åndelighet og åndelig omsorg for gamle mennesker – en hermeneutisk studie
Authors: Rykkje Linda
Published: June 2016

Understanding spirituality and spiritual care for older people – a hermeneutical studyIn old age, spirituality and existential issues may become salient. The study aim is an understanding of older peoples’ perception of spirituality and spiritual care in a Norwegian context. Gadamer hermeneutics is the guiding methodology. 30 interviews were conducted with 17 participants between 74-96 years, six self-reliant, five with homecare, and six nursing home residents. The findings present understanding of spirituality, soul and spirit, the meaningful in life, inner peace, care from family in old age, and spiritual care. The study discusses spirituality as a force that contributes to wholeness and health, especially by the experience of “inner calm and peace”. That which may contribute to inner peace is love for fellow human beings and being with others, religion and nature, together with meaningful activities and feeling “alive”. Spiritual care involves “to care about” the whole person through compassionate care, presence, listening, touch and facilitating socializing and activities.
Destruction of giant cluster-like vesicles by an ultrasonically activated device
Authors: Yahagi Ryosuke , Yoshida Kenji , Zhang Yiting , Ebata Masahiko , Toyota Taro , Yamaguchi Tadashi , Hayashi Hideki
Published: June 2016

In this paper, we propose a technically simple method of destroying a tissue marker composed of giant cluster-like vesicles (GCVs) to facilitate laparoscopic surgeries; the method releases various biological tracers contained in GCVs. An ultrasonically activated device (USAD) emitting 55.5 kHz ultrasound was employed for this purpose. Optical microscopy and fluorospectrophotometry revealed the destruction of GCVs after ultrasound irradiation when the blade tip was set 1.0 mm or closer to, but not directly in contact with, a GCV-containing cell. This means that USAD could be safely used for destroying this GCV tissue marker in clinical settings.
Acción de la estreptozotocina en un modelo experimental de inducción neonatal de la diabetes
Authors: Bequer Leticia , Gómez Tahiry , Molina José Luis , Artiles Daniel , Bermúdez Rosa , Clapés Sonia
Published: June 2016

Introducción. El estudio de la diabetes mediante modelos experimentales es fundamental para entender los mecanismos fisiopatológicos de la enfermedad.
Objetivos. Comparar en ratas Wistar adultas la acción de inducción de la diabetes de la estreptozotocina según el momento y la vía de inoculación del fármaco durante el periodo neonatal mediante la evaluación de variables bioquímicas, metabólicas e histológicas.
Materiales y métodos. Se conformaron ocho grupos con ratas Wistar hembras recién nacidas (n=10). Se evaluó la inducción con estreptozotocina (100 mg/kg de peso corporal) según el día (segundo y quinto después del nacimiento) y la vía de inoculación (subcutánea o intraperitoneal). Los controles se inyectaron con solución tampón de citrato sódico. Durante 12 semanas se evaluaron la glucemia, el peso, y la cantidad de alimento y de agua consumida. Se hicieron pruebas de tolerancia a la glucosa oral, se evaluó la hemoglobina ‘glicosilada’, y se hizo el estudio morfométrico e histopatológico del páncreas.
Resultados. Casi todos los animales inoculados con estreptozotocina en el quinto día murieron, en tanto que todos los inoculados en el segundo día sobrevivieron. La administración subcutánea de estreptozotocina en el segundo día produjo hiperglucemia, polifagia, polidipsia y disminución de la ganancia de peso corporal, así como alteración de los valores de hemoglobina ‘glicosilada’ y en la prueba de tolerancia a la glucosa. Las lesiones histopatológicas del páncreas, así como la disminución del número de islotes, se observaron con mayor frecuencia con la estreptozotocina aplicada de forma subcutánea en el segundo día, lo cual corroboró que el efecto de este agente inoculado de forma subcutánea causa mayor daño.
Conclusiones. La inyección subcutánea de una dosis de 100 mg/kg de estreptozotocina en el segundo día después del nacimiento logró mayor efectividad en la inducción de diabetes moderada en ratas Wistar adultas.