bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection and quantification of 3D hydraulic fractures with vertical borehole induction resistivity measurements
Authors: Yang Kai , Torres-Verdín Carlos , Yılmaz Ali E.
Published: June 2016

We have investigated the ability of low-frequency induction resistivity measurements to detect and appraise hydraulic fractures induced near vertical boreholes. Integral-equation-based simulations indicate that coplanar measurements can detect fractures when they are injected with electrically conductive proppant to increase their conductivity contrast with the shale background. Specifically, when a logging tool consisting of one transmitter and two receivers that are 1.2 and 1.5 m away is used to detect fractures with the effective electrical conductivity of [Formula: see text] in a homogeneous shale formation of [Formula: see text] conductivity, the measurements (1) can indicate the boundary of fractures intersecting with vertical boreholes by the signal spikes generated only when the tool enters/exits fractures, (2) can detect fractures as small as approximately 0.15 m and differentiate fractures up to approximately 10 m in width, (3) can detect fractures with height as small as 0.3 m, (4) can differentiate elliptical and rectangular fractures from each other if they exhibit the same width; e.g., they can discriminate if their widths are within approximately 0.4–10 m, and (5) are sensitive to the effective electrical conductivity of the fracture. A second logging tool consisting of one transmitter and two receivers that are 18 and 19.2 m away is found to be less useful in the detection and appraisal of hydraulic fractures induced near vertical boreholes.
The Environmental Pollutant Tributyltin Chloride Disrupts the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis at Different Levels in Female Rats
Authors: Merlo Eduardo , Podratz Priscila L. , Sena Gabriela C. , de Araújo Julia F. P. , Lima Leandro C. F. , Alves Izabela S. S. , Gama-de-Souza Letícia N. , Pelição Renan , Rodrigues Lívia C. M. , Brandão Poliane A. A. , Carneiro Maria T. W. D. , Pires Rita G. W. , Martins-Silva Cristina , Alarcon Tamara A. , Miranda-Alves Leandro , Silva Ian V. , Graceli Jones B.
Published: June 2016

Tributyltin chloride (TBT) is an environmental contaminant that is used as a biocide in antifouling paints. TBT has been shown to induce endocrine-disrupting effects. However, studies evaluating the effects of TBT on the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis are especially rare. The current study demonstrates that exposure to TBT is critically responsible for the improper function of the mammalian HPA axis as well as the development of abnormal morphophysiology in the pituitary and adrenal glands. Female rats were treated with TBT, and their HPA axis morphophysiology was assessed. High CRH and low ACTH expression and high plasma corticosterone levels were detected in TBT rats. In addition, TBT leads to an increased in the inducible nitric oxide synthase protein expression in the hypothalamus of TBT rats. Morphophysiological abnormalities, including increases in inflammation, a disrupted cellular redox balance, apoptosis, and collagen deposition in the pituitary and adrenal glands, were observed in TBT rats. Increases in adiposity and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ protein expression in the adrenal gland were observed in TBT rats. Together, these data provide in vivo evidence that TBT leads to functional dissociation between CRH, ACTH, and costicosterone, which could be associated an inflammation and increased of inducible nitric oxide synthase expression in hypothalamus. Thus, TBT exerts toxic effects at different levels on the HPA axis function.
Chanting Dharanis While Dreaming of Lilacs: Buddhism and Beijing in Gong Zizhen's Poems of 1839
Authors: Roddy Stephen J.
Published: June 2016

Gong Zizhen's (1792–1841) poetic sequence, Jihai zashi (Poems of 1839), is noted for its subtle, sophisticated allusions to the poet's wide-ranging intellectual interests, especially his erudite and innovative scholarship in the discipline of geographical studies. It also bears witness to his religious conversion to the esoteric doctrines of the Tiantai sect during the last decade of his life. This study argues that these two dimensions of his intellectual and spiritual life converge in many of the poems; moreover, they serve to complement the ideals of interethnic comity and cultural pluralism that Gong came to champion during his later years. This essay also demonstrates how these themes are also evident in Buddhist metaphors employed in poems addressed to Lingxiao, a Suzhou prostitute whom Gong took as a concubine. By tracing the interplay between the erotic, philosophical, and intellectual dimensions of the poems, this study aims to contribute to furthering the understanding of the structural and thematic coherence of the sequence as a whole.
Literati and Poems About Go (Weiqi 圍棋)
Authors: Dongfang Qi
Published: June 2016

As an iconic strategy game, go (weiqi) has long played an important cultural role throughout East Asia. This article examines representations of go in a variety of essays and especially poems. In doing so, it demonstrates that go was hardly a mere pastime, good only for leisure and relaxation. Rather, writers and poets wove the game into a rich brocade of imagery that expressed and reinforced a host of sophisticated ideals prized by the literati. From the religious to moral to political realms, go was one of the most important metaphorical tools available to authors who would claim literati status.
From Stage Scripts to Closet Drama: Editions of Early Chinese Drama and the Translations of Yuan Zaju
Authors: Idema Wilt L.
Published: June 2016

This study will trace the way shifts in performance and textual function reshaped the zaju from its late thirteenth-century appearance to the early seventeenth-century publication of the Yuanqu xuan by Zang Maoxun. Whereas the Yuanqu xuan offered literary texts for readers, the earliest printings from the fourteenth century were most likely based on lead performers' role texts, printed as aids for the audience. The author will also compare changes introduced into the texts by Ming theatrical agencies and their court performances, with the editorial policy of Li Kaixian, among the first to reprint Yuan zaju as the representative literary genre of that era. Long the major source for Western translations of early Chinese drama, the Yuanqu xuan has been selectively drawn on, according to the different aims of its translators: the plays have been used for language study, observation of Chinese daily life, and appreciation of Chinese literature. The author concludes by noting the growing interest in both Japan and the English-speaking world of scholars and translators, in earlier editions of Yuan drama.
Multifunctional in vivo imaging of pancreatic islets during diabetes development
Authors: Li Ge , Wu Binlin , Ward Meliza G. , Chong Angie C. N. , Mukherjee Sushmita , Chen Shuibing , Hao Mingming
Published: June 2016

Pancreatic islet dysfunction leading to insufficient glucose-stimulated insulin secretion triggers the clinical onset of diabetes. How islet dysfunction develops is not well understood at the cellular level, partly owing to the lack of approaches to study single islets longitudinally in vivo. Here, we present a noninvasive, high-resolution system to quantitatively image real-time glucose metabolism from single islets in vivo, currently not available with any other method. In addition, this multifunctional system simultaneously reports islet function, proliferation, vasculature and macrophage infiltration in vivo from the same set of images. Applying our method to a longitudinal high-fat diet study revealed changes in islet function as well as alternations in islet microenvironment. More importantly, this label-free system enabled us to image real-time glucose metabolism directly from single human islets in vivo for the first time, opening the door to noninvasive longitudinal in vivo studies of healthy and diabetic human islets.
Πρακτικές και αντιλήψεις εκπαιδευτικών για την προώθηση του εγγραμματισμού σε πολύγλωσσα εκπαιδευτικά περιβάλλοντα: Το παράδειγμα ενός νηπιαγωγείου
Authors: Serifi Georgia-Vasiliki , Triantafyllopoulou Eleni , Sfyroera Maria
Published: June 2016

The purpose of the current study is to investigate and highlight teachers’ beliefs and practices regarding the promotion of children’s literacy in a multicultural and multilingual environment. The research focuses on two kindergarten classrooms at a school located in the center of Athens. More specifically, the goals of this study were a) to compare the stated practices of the participating kindergarten teachers with their observed practices in the classroom context b) to establish whether the teachers’ theoretical orientation is consistent in practice with their adopted methods and c) to determine the extent to which those methods are adapted to the respective educational setting. The theoretical framework of the current survey follows the contemporary pedagogical approach to literacy. The following research materials are used: a) the observation and recording of teachers’ instructional practices, b) observation checklists pertaining to the students’ oral and written communication skills, completed directly by the teachers and analyzed in this research to examine the extent to which the teachers are aware of the particularities of their classes and c) semi-structured interviews that enable sound comparisons between the teachers’ convictions and instruction methods. The findings of this study show that both kindergarten teachers employ traditional methods of literacy in most of their instructional practices, even though they espouse -at least partially- modern pedagogical approaches, as revealed by the interviews. In addition, the checklists demonstrate that the teachers do not have a clear understanding of their classes’ unique characteristics, which could be one of the reasons for the observed inconsistency between teachers’ beliefs and practices.
Η σχέση ακουστικής και αναγνωστικής κατανόησης σε διάφορα κειμενικά είδη σε μαθητές δημοτικού σχολείου
Authors: Aidinis Athanasios , Daoula Evaggelia
Published: June 2016

The relationship between oral and reading comprehension has been studied by a number of studies and it has been found, especially in adult research, that there are significant and high correlations between the two types of comprehension. The aim of the present study was to examine oral and reading comprehension skills in relation to text type, either narrative or not. 136 children participated in the study from third and sixth grade of primary school. For different authentic texts were used to measure comprehension, three narrative and three non narrative. On of the narrative and on of the expository texts was given to both third and sixth grade children whereas on narrative and on expository text was given only to third graders and one narrative and one expository text was given only to sixth graders. All the children were examined in two narrative and two expository texts either in oral or reading comprehension. Children had to answer into 8 questions, 2 of them required information that could be found in a part of the text, three of them required bridging inferences and three of them required elaboration inferences. Results showed that differences between oral and reading comprehension are not constant and they depend on text type and question type. Keywords: reading comprehension, oral comprehension, narrative, expository text, inferences.
Καλλιέργεια πρακτικών ψηφιακού γραμματισμού: δημιουργική πρόκληση για το νέο σχολείο
Authors: Mihalis Athanasios
Published: June 2016

 

 This paper concerns digital literacy as a main dimension of social literacy in general, and especially as an important aspect of multimodal literacy. The main purpos-es of the paper (on a theoretical level) are the following: a) the definition of the nature and the main aspects and principles of digital literacy, which is regarded as not explicitly and sufficiently defined in an era of information and advanced technology; b) the presentation and analysis of students’ cognitive schemata (formal and content), which are a prerequisite for the cultivation of digital literacy practices, the social and linguistic aspects of digital literacy and the cultural dimension of this kind of literacy; c) the inves-tigation of ways to connect digital literacy and multimodality; d) the description of se-miotic resources and semiotic modes which are the main means for meaning making and meaning making transformation and redesigning, considered within the frame of social semiotic theory; e) finally, the discussion of some dimensions of critical digital literacy in 

educational systems. Additionally, the main aims of the present paper, as a contribution to scientific research in the literacy field, are: a) to investigate the ways digital literacy practices are cultivated in Greek primary and secondary education through content analysis of the Greek language curricula and course books in secondary education and through the critical analysis of educational discourse; b) to present Greek language teachers’ attitudes towards the term and the aspects of multimodality and its location in the Greek educational system (the data about teachers’ attitudes are collected through interviews). The results of the research show that, in Greek education, digital literacy practices are considered to be an intentional process and a system of knowledge and skills (according the autonomous model of literacy) without being viewed in their social and ideological aspects within a communicative and cultural community. The considera-tion of semiotic resources and digital tools as isolated from their social context is in con-trast to language as semiotic mode, which is examined and studied in its social and cul-tural context. Also, language teachers are confused as far as the notion and the aspects of multimodality are concerned. Finally an example is provided of analysing a multimodal text positing an argument, so as to highlight the construction of meaning through a vari-ety of semiotic modes.Using this example, the content and practice of Greek language as an educational subject could be rejuvenated.
Ο αναδυόμενος γραμματισμός στην προσχολική εκπαίδευση: Νέα ζητήματα και εκπαιδευτικές προτάσεις
Authors: Manolitsis George
Published: June 2016

The present study aims to describe a theoretical perspective of emergent literacy, based on a detailed literature review of previous theoretical models, and on contemporary research findings on the structure of emergent literacy. A triangular model is suggested to explain the construct of emergent literacy. A prominent role is given to the continuous interaction of various contextual experiences with the components of emergent literacy. The construct of emergent literacy consists of three major components which are considered critical for literacy acquisition. These major components are the knowledge of literacy concepts, literacy skills and literacy behaviours. The knowledge components include concepts about print and letter knowledge; the literacy skills include oral language (vocabulary, listening comprehension, and narrative skills) and metalinguistic (phonological, syntactic and morphological awareness) skills; literacy behaviour includes emergent reading and emergent writing. According to this triangular model, the components of literacy knowledge and literacy skills are intercorrelated, while both components influence the emergence of literacy behaviours such as emergent reading and writing. However, beyond the direct links of each major component to each other, there are also indirect links among them through the effects of the experiences children get from the contexts they live in. These experiences originate from home and school contexts. Educational implications for optimal literacy acquisition from an early age are discussed based on the suggestions of this triangular model.
What does the UK public want from academic science communication?
Authors: Redfern James , Illingworth Sam , Verran Joanna
Published: June 2016

The overall aim of public academic science communication is to engage a non-scientist with a particular field of science and/or research topic, often driven by the expertise of the academic. An e-survey was designed to provide insight into respondent’s current and future engagement with science communication activities. Respondents provided a wide range of ideas and concerns as to the ‘common practice’ of academic science communication, and whilst they support some of these popular approaches (such as open-door events and science festivals), there are alternatives that may enable wider engagement. Suggestions of internet-based approaches and digital media were strongly encouraged, and although respondents found merits in methods such as science festivals, limitations such as geography, time and topic of interest were a barrier to engagement for some. Academics and scientists need to think carefully about how they plan their science communication activities and carry out evaluations, including considering the point of view of the public, as although defaulting to hands-on open door events at their university may seem like the expected standard, it may not be the best way to reach the intended audience.
Peculiarities of Organization of Project-Based Learning Within the Educational Environment of the University
Authors: Зотова  , Zotova A.
Published: June 2016

Modern society focuses on an innovative approach in

different spheres of life. This principle is evidence that today´s

professional environment requires graduate of new formation. Thus,

the University should choose one of the priority directions in the

educational process of project learning, which is an effective tool

in training specialists of a new type with innovative and creative

potential.
The Moral Component of Higher Education in Modern Russia
Authors: Скляднева  , Sklyadneva V.
Published: June 2016

The article gives a brief analysis of the current state and structure of higher education in Russia with the aim of identifying current challenges in harmonization in the part of the moral education of students. Some additional requirements arising from these tasks, in respect of the teaching staff are presented.
The Criteria for the System of Scientific Knowledge
Authors: Губанов  , Gubanov Nikolay , Губанов  , Gubanov N.
Published: June 2016

The authors marked and characterized four sets of criteria:

1) the criteria for scientific knowledge, 2) the criteria for the

truth of knowledge, and 3) the criteria for cultural research, 4) the

criteria for independence of science. All these four sets of criteria

related to each other and partially overlap. The mixing of these

criteria makes it difficult to develop the problems of the philosophy

of science. The existing trend of rejection of the category of truth

manifests itself in proposals to replace it with the concepts of reliability,

credibility, sense. Such position creates a paradoxical situation

of self-referencing: if there is no truth, then what is approved

by postmodernists and domestic authors, is also not truth. Therefore,

the consistent implementation of the provisions of the postmodern

leads them to self-destruct. The leading criterions of truth have the

empirical evidence. Its base component is a statistically significant

observation. It operates as a pure supervision or as supervision in

the composition of practices, including experiment. Derivative of

empirical verification by criteria of truth are logical provability,

heuristic, simplicity and beauty. The criteria for scientific knowledge

are conclusiveness (rationality), noncontradiction, empirical verifiability,

repeatability of empirical material, general meaning, systematicity

(coherence), essentiality, uniqueness of terms, developmental

potency. On the basis of these criteria the authors give the

generalized definition of scientific knowledge.
Breast reconstruction: options post-mastectomy
Authors: Rolph R , Mehta S , Farhadi J
Published: June 2016

Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women in the UK. Breast reconstruction after resection of breast cancers increases patients' quality of life and psychosocial functioning. This article introduces this field and explores the options available to patients with breast cancer.
Head and neck reconstruction
Authors: Vamadeva SV , Tadros A
Published: June 2016

Head and neck cancers are among the rarer types of cancer presenting in the UK. However, oncological resection can cause significant morbidity in these patients, so reconstruction has a crucial role in the management of such patients to improve their postoperative quality of life.
Changes to the law on consent following Montgomery vs Lanarkshire Health Board
Authors: Clearkin Louis
Published: June 2016

The Supreme Court's determination on Montgomery (AP) (Appellant) v Lanarkshire Health Board (Respondent) (Scotland) [2015] clarified UK law on consent. It is for the informed patient to determine which intervention, if any, they will undergo. All doctors must meet this standard and may need to reassess their practice to do so.
The interplay between heart failure, metabolism and body composition
Authors: McAloon Christopher J , O'Hare Paul , Osman Faizel , Randeva Harpal S
Published: June 2016

A complex interplay exists between heart failure, metabolic status and body composition. The idiosyncrasies of these relationships are poorly understood, but they offer prognostic value and potential clinical utility. Current understanding of this relationship and known clinical value are discussed in this article.
Mythical beauty and a wavering economy: a look at the Greek aesthetics industry
Authors: Mendes Aysha
Published: June 2016

With both surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures on the rise worldwide, aesthetic nursing is becoming an increasingly popular profession. In this series, Aysha Mendes examines aesthetic nursing practices and cultural perceptions of beauty across the globe by focusing on a different country every month. In this issue, she discusses why procedures are still in demand, even in an economic crisis
Non-invasive body contouring treatments: manage your client's expectations with care
Authors: Di-Scala Naomi
Published: June 2016

Because non-invasive body contouring treatments, such as cryolipolysis, radiofrequency and injection lipolysis, involve no wounds, there is no risk of infection and no downtime, meaning the client can return to work right away. As a result, the insurance exposure of your clinic is low. Naomi Di-Scala explores some of these treatments, their potential side effects and their long-term impact on insurance policies
Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners: what is it and how will it be funded?
Authors: Sines David
Published: June 2016

Following the publication of Health Education England's final reports on qualifications and training in the non-surgical cosmetic sector, a joint council was formed with a view to improve standards. David Sines, the Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners’ interim chair, outlines the rationale behind the creation of this new body and answers important questions about funding, collaboration and independence
Going beyond your clinic team's SMART objectives to achieve stretch goals
Authors: Ratcliffe Jason
Published: June 2016

Although setting specific, measurable and assignable objectives is beneficial for your aesthetic clinic, aiming for achievable and realistic goals can sometimes prevent innovation and creativity. In this month's column, Jason Ratcliffe uses the example of the bullet train in Japan to demonstrate how having a team dedicated to a seemingly impossible task can help to turn a dream into a reality
How to build and maintain your aesthetic clinic's client base effectively
Authors: Smith Victoria
Published: June 2016

Establishing a solid client base which can be developed and built on over time is vital to the success of a business. In addition, a creative and proactive approach is imperative in gaining a strong and steady influx of clients. In this month's practice management article, Victoria Smith looks at ways to approach your clients and how these will help the growth and success of your aesthetic clinic
Lower facial contouring: dermal filler approaches and techniques
Authors: Baker Anna
Published: June 2016

With the onset of age, the lower face displays a number of senescent changes, manifested through skeletal remodelling and subcutaneous and deep facial fat descent, as well as textural changes in skin tone and texture. Anna Baker reviews the literature concerning the salient anatomy for lower facial rejuvenation and critically analyses treatment approaches with dermal fillers
Why Perfectha is my preferred dermal filler for facial rejuvenation
Authors: Taylor-Barnes Kathryn
Published: June 2016

When choosing a dermal filler for her aesthetic patients, Kathryn Taylor-Barnes prioritises safety, efficacy and patient satisfaction. Since incorporating Perfectha into her aesthetics toolbox for the correction of facial lines and wrinkles, her patients have been very satisfied with the results. In this product review, she explains why Perfectha is her favourite range of dermal fillers
Divine Tyrannical Power and Joban Use of Irony to Resolve Conflict
Authors: Wafula R S
Published: June 2016

Sara Cobb begins her book, Speaking of Violence by stating that “stories matter. They have gravitas; they are grave. They have weight. They are concrete. They materialize policies, institutions, relationships, and identities.”[1] Applied to the book of Job 1—2, one can ask, how grave is the story of Job? What conflict does it create? What is at stake in this conflict? What does the story concretize? In this paper I point out that there are two narrative approaches to reading Job's conflict with God. One is that Job does not resist divine power and the other is that he does. If we take it that job does not resist divine power, we implicitly begin fostering stories that can create docility/passivity in the face of imperial power. If we argue that he resists divine power, we create stories that enable people to stand up for their freedoms/rights, hence fostering the idea that conflict cannot be solved by docility but by confronting the powers-that-be, which create conflicts in the first place. In this paper, I argue for the later position.[1] Sara Cobb, Speaking of Violence: The Politics and Poetics of Narrative in Conflict Resolution (Oxford and New York, NY: Oxford University Press, 2013), 3.
A CAPACIDADE DINÂMICA DE “ORQUESTRAÇÃO DE REDES DE INOVAÇÃO” NO MODELO DE INOVAÇÃO ABERTA
Authors: Da Silva Silvio Bitencourt
Published: June 2016

Este ensaio teórico problematiza conteúdos relacionados a orquestração de recursos. Ao incorporar a noção de complementaridade de recursos que se estendem além dos limites da empresa, a “orquestração de redes de inovação” é apresentada como uma capacidade dinâmica necessária para assegurar a ação gerencial sobre recursos não compartilhados e compartilhados em uma rede no modelo de inovação aberta. São apresentadas algumas proposições a partir dos novos discernimentos obtidos, que podem servir de ponto de partida para a formulação de questões de pesquisa e de problemas a serem investigados. Em síntese o estudo fornece (a) uma visão integrada da literatura existente no campo da estratégia sobre a visão baseada em recursos e as capacidades dinâmicas, bem como (b) amplia a discussão sobre gestão do portfólio de recursos para além dos limites da empresa em direção ao entendimento da orquestração de recursos (gestão de recursos e orquestração de ativos), promovendo (d) uma abordagem sobre as capacidades dinâmicas em campos complementares de investigação, como neste caso, a inovação aberta. Possibilita para gestores de redes de inovação (e) discernimentos sobre como as ações gerenciais na rede de inovação e sobre ela possibilitam a melhoria do desempenho da empresa e a obtenção de vantagem competitiva. Palavras-chave: Capacidades dinâmicas. Orquestração de redes de inovação.
AS CAPACIDADES DE INOVAÇÃO EM STARTUPS: CONTRIBUIÇÕES PARA UMA TRAJETÓRIA DE CRESCIMENTO
Authors: Dullius Andréia Cristina , Schaeffer Paola Rücker
Published: June 2016

O artigo visa analisar as capacidades de inovação predominantes em startups, com base no modelo de capacidades de Zawislak et al. (2013), que compreende as capacidades de desenvolvimento, de operação, de gestão e de transação. Para tanto, realizou-se um estudo do tipo exploratório com seis empresas: quatro stratups e duas firmas, sendo que essas iniciaram as suas respectivas trajetórias como startups. Os resultados revelam, primeiramente, que as startups possuem apenas as capacidades de desenvolvimento e de transação, enquanto as firmas possuem as quatro capacidades desenvolvidas. As capacidades de operação e de gestão, além de serem inexistentes ou incipientes nas startups, passam a integrar as suas rotinas apenas na medida em que elas se consolidam e crescem como organização. Além disso, destaca-se também que a rede de relacionamentos das startups é um dos fatores de maior importância nos primeiros anos da startup, tendo em vista a necessidade de obter acesso a investidores e potenciais clientes. Palavras-chave: Startup. Capacidades de Inovação. Brasil.
COMPETÊNCIAS ORGANIZACIONAIS E CAPACIDADES DINÂMICAS: UMA DISCUSSÃO SOBRE AS SUAS DIFERENÇAS
Authors: Herrmann Júlia D. , Becker Grace Vieira
Published: June 2016

Este ensaio teórico tem como objetivo estabelecer pressupostos que evidenciam diferenças entre competências organizacionais e capacidades dinâmicas, utilizando a estrutura conceitual do processo de contínuo ajustamento estratégico como pano de fundo para explorar e demonstrar estas diferenças. Apresenta-se o contexto teórico explorando o modelo desenvolvido na década de 70 por Miles et al. que enfoca a existência do processo de contínuo ajustamento que permite, através da articulação de mecanismos internos, a adaptação da organização às decisões estratégicas tomadas por seu principal executivo em resposta aos desafios e oportunidades do ambiente. A partir deste ponto de vista, formula-se uma discussão teórica que aborda as diferenças de competências organizacionais e capacidades dinâmicas através da influência destas no processo de ajustamento estratégico sobre três perspectivas: (1) papel estratégico; (2) funcionalidade e (3) temporalidade. Demonstra-se que as competências organizacionais integram capacidades e recursos da organização e demandam mais tempo para ajustar-se ao processo estratégico devido a sua função de sustentabilidade. Enquanto que, capacidades dinâmicas criam, adaptam e reconfiguram os recursos internos e são rapidamente ajustadas ao processo, uma vez que atuam para a sua reconfiguração. A partir deste debate teórico, sugere-se que estes elementos influenciam o processo de contínuo ajustamento estratégico de forma distinta. Palavras-Chave: Competências Organizacionais. Capacidades Dinâmicas. Ajustamento Estratégico.
Uso combinado de traçadores ideais e reativos para verificação do desempenho de poços multiníveis
Authors: Oliveira Marcelo Da Fonseca , Galvez Margarita Nuche , Bodelão Thomás Gerdulo , Freitas Juliana Gardenalli de , Oliveira Everton De
Published: June 2016

A caracterização de plumas de contaminação é uma etapa crucial para o gerenciamento de áreas contaminadas, mas, por serem heterogêneas, há a necessidade de investigação de alta resolução. Nesse trabalho buscou-se desenvolver um poço multínivel pré-montado e selecionar traçadores para verificação do isolamento hidráulico entre os níveis. Testes de coluna foram feitos para avaliar o comportamento dos traçadores e protótipos foram montados e testados em laboratório. Um poço multinível foi instalado numa área experimental, e seu desempenho avaliado por teste com os traçadores. A fluoresceína foi selecionada como traçador reativo e o brometo como traçador ideal. As melhores configurações para o selo do poço multinível foram papel pardo com bentonita em pellets quebrada e granulada, e tela plástica com bentonita em pellets quebrada. No teste em campo, o protótipo instalado funcionou satisfatoriamente e verificou-se que o uso de traçadores ideal e reativo permite avaliar a instalação do poço e também a conectividade entre os níveis.
A conceptual framework as basis for the development of a psychosocial educational programme to facilitate the reintegration of incarcerated women who had dumped babies and / or committed infanticide
Authors: Sumpi Ndempavali , Amukugo Hans Justus
Published: June 2016

This paper focuses on the conceptualization the research findings and literature control with regard to the experiences of women who have dumped babies and / or committed infanticide. Eleven unstructured individual interviews were voice recorded and transcribed verbatim. The researcher used a systematic approach to analyse the transcripts and field notes using Tesch’s open qualitative data analysis method Based on the findings of the main themes of the study, four central concepts emerged from those themes; namely psychological factors, socioeconomic factors, the reintegration process, as well as a legal and ethical framework. Through consultation and member checking, it was concluded that an educational programme was suitable to prepare and support the women who had dumped babies and / or committed infanticide.The educational programme entailed the management and understanding of the psychosocial aspects, socioeconomic aspects, reintegration process, as well as the legal and ethical aspects of the women. These women are members of the society irrespective of the magnitude of the crime they had committed.The conceptual framework forms the basis of the development of the training programme for women who have dumped babies and / or committed infanticide. The description in this conceptual framework is in accordance with the reasoning map that is based on the survey list outline by Dickoff et al. (1968).
Consumer Xenocentrism as Determinant of Foreign Product Preference: A System Justification Perspective
Authors: Balabanis George , Diamantopoulos Adamantios
Published: June 2016

Foreign and domestic product purchase behavior largely depends on consumer predispositions. The dominant construct in international marketing literature explaining such behavior has been consumer ethnocentrism, which is conceptually anchored in social identity theory. However, such a perspective overlooks evidence that certain consumers are consistently attracted by the “foreignness” of a product. Drawing from system justification theory, the present investigation conceptualizes and provides an empirical test of the consumer xenocentrism construct that is intended to explain consumer attraction toward foreign products. Using survey data from five complementary studies, the authors develop and validate a new scale (the C-XENSCALE) to measure consumers’ xenocentric tendencies and offer extensive evidence on its ability to explain consumer preferences for foreign products. The authors discuss implications of the findings for theory and managerial practice and identify future research directions.
Functionalized magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles for removal of heavy metal ions from aqueous solutions
Authors: Chen Dun , Awut Tunsagnl , Liu Bin , Ma Yali , Wang Tao , Nurulla Ismayil
Published: June 2016

Fe3O4 nanoparticles (MNP) were coated with 3-aminopropyltriethoxy-silane (APTES), resulting in anchoring of primary amine groups on the surface of the particles, then four kinds of novel magnetic adsorbents (Fe3O4@SiO2-NH-HCGs) were formed by grafting of different heterocyclic groups (HCG) on amino groups via substitution reaction. These Fe3O4@SiO2-NH-HCGs were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy disperse spectroscopy (EDS). The results confirmed the formation of Fe3O4@SiO2-NH-HCGs nanoparticles and the Fe3O4 core possessed superparamagnetism. Batch experiments were performed to evaluate adsorption conditions of Cu2+, Hg2+, Pb2+ and Cd2+. Under normal temperature and neutral condition, just 20 min, the removal efficiency of any Fe3O4@SiO2-NH-HCGs is more than 96%. In addition, these Fe3O4@SiO2-NH-HCGs have good stability and reusability. Their removal efficiency has no obvious decrease after being used seven times. After the experiments were finished, Fe3O4@SiO2-NH-HCGs were conveniently separated via an external magnetic field due to superparamagnetism. These results indicate that these Fe3O4@SiO2-NH-HCGs are potentially attractive materials for the removal of heavy metal ions from industrial wastewater.
Application of multivariate storage model to quantify trends in seasonally frozen soil
Authors: Woody Jonathan , Wang Yan , Dyer Jamie
Published: June 2016

This article presents a study of the ground thermal regime recorded at 11 stations in the North Dakota Agricultural Network. Particular focus is placed on detecting trends in the annual ground freeze process portion of the ground thermal regime’s daily temperature signature. A multivariate storage model from queuing theory is fit to a quantity of estimated daily depths of frozen soil. Statistical inference on a trend parameter is obtained by minimizing a weighted sum of squares of a sequence of daily one-step-ahead predictions. Standard errors for the trend estimates are presented. It is shown that the daily quantity of frozen ground experienced at these 11 sites exhibited a negative trend over the observation period.
Combustion behavior of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) sapwood treated with a dispersion of aluminum oxychloride-modified silica
Authors: Xiao Zefang , Xu Jiejie , Mai Carsten , Militz Holger , Wang Qingwen , Xie Yanjun
Published: June 2016

Treatment of wood with aqueous dispersions of silica that have been modified with aluminum oxychloride (AlOCl) can impart wood water repellence and increased resistance to fungal decay. This study is a comparative survey on the effects of treatment with modified and non-modified silica dispersions in terms of the combustion behavior of the Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) to evaluate the fire risk of this wood utilized as a construction material. The thermogravimetric results showed that treatments with the silica dispersions did not change the pyrolysis temperature of wood polymers, i.e. there was no synergetic interaction between silica and cell wall polymers during pyrolysis. Cone calorimetry (CONE) indicated that the silica-treated wood required longer time for ignition than the untreated control, but wood chars were similar. Treatments with both silica dispersions led to considerable reduction in the heat release (HR) and smoke production, but the cationically modified silica was more efficient than the unmodified silica. These findings were interpreted that incorporation of modified silica did not substantially influence the pyrolysis of cell wall polymers because they have not penetrated the cell wall; they have rather reduced the fire risk via forming a barrier against oxygen access and a thermal protection shield.
The evolution of genomic stability to a mechanism in reproduction and psychiatry
Authors: Regidor Pedro-Antonio , Volko Claus D. , Schindler Adolf E. , Rohr Uwe D.
Published: June 2016

There are two forms of immune defense, the specific or adaptive immune defense and the unspecific innate immune defense. Vaccination is utilized against specific bacteria via the adaptive immune system. The innate immunity DNA stress defense is a non-toxic mechanism developed in yeasts and conserved in mammals and in plants. Although the steroidal hormone cascade has overtaken the stress response and allows superfast response via non-genomic receptors, the old innate immunity response is still mediated via the steroidal hormones cascade. The classical drug/receptor model has provided for many solutions, however, in antibiotics, cancer, and in severe mental diseases this model reaches to certain limits. The NIH/Department of Mental Health has developed a new model that shows severe mental diseases may be immune diseases that can be treated by replacing old diseased nerve cells by new healthy nerve cells, where the old innate immunity may be exploited. This means that severe mental diseases are physical diseases. A newly developed model, where modifications of the steroidal hormone cascade help to understand bipolarity, schizophrenia, and PTSD in men and women can be transferred to gynecological hormone modifications in women, where innate immunity is mediated via the same steroidal hormone cascade. Treatment via immune response via the DNA cascade should be developed in cancer, infections and severe mental disease, because foreign cells or diseased cells may be removed by the unspecific innate immunity.
Long-term positive and negative psychosocial outcomes in young childhood cancer survivors, type 1 diabetics and their healthy peers
Authors: Kremer Anna-Lena , Schieber Katharina , Metzler Markus , Schuster Sonja , Erim Yesim
Published: June 2016

Objective:

This study examined posttraumatic growth (PTG) in young childhood cancer survivors (CCS) and type 1 diabetics (DM), with physically healthy peers as the control group (CG). Anxiety and depression as negative mental outcomes in the three groups, as well as fear of progression in DM and CCS were examined.

Methods:

A total of 107 participants with ages ranging from 18 to 35 years were examined: CCS (n=33), type 1 diabetics (n=39) and peers without a history of chronic disease (n=35). PTG and negative psychosocial outcomes were assessed with self-report questionnaires.

Results:

There was a significant difference between the groups regarding PTG. On a subscale level DM reported higher appreciation of life (p=0.024), higher personal strength (p=0.010), and more new possibilities (p=0.010) compared to CG. CCS experienced higher spiritual changes than DM (p=0.050). DM reported higher levels of anxiety compared to CCS (p=0.026) and CG (p=0.049). Depression was higher in DM compared to CG (p=0.003). Fear of progression was higher in DM compared to CCS (p<0.001).

Conclusion:

These findings show that psychological growth was experienced by young CCS and participants with DM. Furthermore, these findings highlight that adolescents with a significant health diagnosis in childhood or youth can undergo a similar or even more positive psychosocial development as peers without a history of chronic disease. However, young type 1 diabetics seem to be a more vulnerable group in terms of anxiety, depression and fear of progression.
Both high and low testosterone levels may play a role in suicidal behavior in adolescent, young, middle-age, and older men: a hypothesis
Authors: Sher Leo
Published: June 2016

Many studies suggest that testosterone plays a role in the regulation of mood and behavior. Most but not all investigations of the relationship between testosterone and suicidality found relations between testosterone and suicidal behavior. The balance of evidence is in favor of the view that testosterone is involved in the pathophysiology of suicidality. The author has previously proposed that suicidal behavior in adolescents and young adults is associated with high testosterone levels, whereas suicidality in older men is associated with decreased testosterone levels. However, both high and low testosterone levels can be observed in adolescent, young, middle-aged and older men. In this article, the author proposes that both high and low testosterone levels may play a role in suicidal behavior in men of any age.
Effect of Type of Plasticizers on Mechanical and Water Barrier Properties of Transglutaminase Cross-Linked Zein–Oleic Acid Composite Films
Authors: Masamba Kingsley , Li Yue , Hategekimana Joseph , Liu Fei , Ma Jianguo , Zhong Fang
Published: June 2016

The effect of using four plasticizers namely ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, glycerol and sorbitol on mechanical and water barrier properties of transglutaminase cross-linked zein–oleic acid composite films was investigated. Results revealed that both mechanical and water barrier properties of the films were significantly affected (p<0.05) by plasticizer type. Tensile strength (TS), water vapour permeability (WVP) and solubility (SB) values were all better in ethylene glycol control plasticized films compared to other plasticizers. Furthermore, irrespective of plasticizer type, transglutaminase treatment improved TS while when oleic acid was incorporated into the films in the range of 1–4% based on zein weight, the mechanical and water barrier properties of the composite film were diversely affected. Results from scanning electron microscopy for the 2% oleic acid-incorporated composite films revealed a rough and irregular surface morphology for the sorbitol plasticized films. Overall, ethylene glycol provided better mechanical and water barrier properties.
Cystinosis in Eastern Turkey
Authors: Doğan Murat , Bulan Keziban , Kaba Sultan , Cesur Yaşar , Ceylaner Serdar , Ustyol Lokman
Published: June 2016

Background:

This study was conducted to investigate CTNS (cystinosin, lysosomal cystine transporter) gene mutations and the clinical spectrum of nephropathic cystinosis among patients diagnosed with the disease in a single center in Turkey.

Methods:

Patients’ clinical and laboratory data were extracted from an electronic health registry. Molecular CTNS gene analysis was performed using either next-generation sequencing or Sanger sequencing.

Results:

Eleven patients (age range: 1.5–12 years) from nine families were identified. The presenting complaint was growth retardation in seven patients; polydipsia and polyuria in three patients; and vomiting in two patients. At presentation, electrolyte loss was noted in all patients, of which eight patients presented with metabolic acidosis, and three patients presented with metabolic alkalosis. All patients also presented with proteinuria and glucosuria, and four patients developed varying degrees of renal insufficiency, for which peritoneal dialysis was initiated in one patient. Cystine crystals were detected via ocular examination in one patient at presentation. No cystine crystals were detected among patients who underwent bone marrow aspiration. In the CTNS gene, a p.T7FX7 (c.18-21del4bp) mutation was detected in three patients, whereas a p.E227E (c.681 G>A) (homozygous) mutation was detected in eight patients.

Conclusions:

We detected two distinct mutations, p.T7FX7 (c.18-21del4bp) and p.E227E (c.681 G>A) (homozygous), in the CTNS gene in 11 patients with cystinosis from the East Anatolian region of Turkey. Patients with a homozygous c.681 G>A (p.E227E) mutation are more likely to develop chronic renal failure and should be monitored closely, whereas patients with a p.T7FX7 (c.18-21del4bp) mutation have a milder phenotype. Additionally, metabolic alkalosis does not exclude cystinosis, although cystinosis is a cause of proximal renal tubular acidosis.
Permissible measurement uncertainty in the lower part of measurement intervals
Authors: Haeckel Rainer , Gurr Eberhard , Keller Thomas
Published: June 2016

Many laboratories observe that requirements of the Guideline of the German Medical Association RiliBÄK for the internal quality assurance are difficult to fulfill in the lower part of the measurement interval (e.g. thrombocyte count at 50·109/L). With 10 measurands, the RiliBÄK contain special limits for lower measurement quantities. But, these limits lead to artificial “jumps” and even may be too stringent in the very low region of the measurement interval. Requirements which are too stringent usually lead to repeats and unnecessary costs, and to unnecessary time delay. The DGKL working group Guide Limits proposes variable permissible limits depending on the measurand concentration applied in the control material. Then, in the 10 critical cases, higher permissible limits are obtained in the very low part of measurement intervals. The control materials used in ring trials should contain concentrations close to the lower decision limits. Then, the permissible limits provided by the RiliBÄK also appear too stringent in the lower part of the measurement intervals of many measurands.