bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Catequizadores de índios, educadores de colonos, Soldados de Cristo: formação de professores e ação pedagógica dos jesuítas no Brasil, de 1549 a 1759, à luz do Ratio Studiorum
Authors: Mesquida Peri
Published: July 2013

A presença dos jesuítas no Brasil Colônia, de 1549 a 1759, marcou indelevelmente nossa educação e nossa prática pedagógica. O Ratio Studiorum, compêndio de regras de como ensinar, como aprender, como administrar uma instituição de ensino, foi responsável pela construção de um verdadeiro sistema de ensino no território nacional, pois não somente homogeneizava a prática pedagógica, como estabelecia um único método de ensino/aprendizagem. O objetivo principal da pesquisa cujo relato apresenta-se sob a forma de artigo foi analisar criticamente o Ratio Studiorum de 1599, edição em inglês de 1870, e sua repercussão na formação de professores pela Companhia de Jesus no Brasil, assim como encontrar traços da prática pedagógica dos inacianos e sua influência sobre a sociedade no período estudado. Para tanto, lançou-se mão da historiografia que tivemos acesso, em especial Leite (1938), Lacouture (1994), Franca (1952), Schimitz (1994), entre outros, e de fontes documentais de apoio, utilizando basicamente a crítica hermenêutica para a análise, a interpretação e a crítica dos dados coletados, chegando a algumas conclusões preliminares, como o fato de que a ação pedagógica dos jesuítas incorporou-se na prática pedagógica no Brasil, marcando-a indelevelmente. A pesquisa mostrou também que a educação foi escolhida como opção preferencial assumida pela Companhia de Jesus desde a sua origem, e a forma como o ensino fundado no Ratio, tendo como base teórica o tomismo-aristotélico, auxiliou a conformar a sociedade à cultura luso-europeia, baseada na ordem, na disciplina, na obediência, na autoridade, no respeito hierarquizado às regras.
Trabalho e ação coletiva: memória, espaço e identidades sociais na cidade do aço
Authors: Santana Marco Aurélio , Mollona Massimiliano
Published: July 2013

Situada na região sul fluminense, a cidade siderúrgica de Volta Redonda, conhecida internacionalmente, tem um longo histórico de organização e mobilização operária, que se desdobra em termos de seus movimentos populares. O presente trabalho analisa as formas pelas quais militantes dos movimentos sindical e popular constroem suas memórias acerca das mobilizações experimentadas nesse município nas décadas de 1980 e 1990, verificando as representações de cidade que atravessam esse trabalho de memória. Interessa-nos pensar, a partir deste caso, o imbricamento entre memória, espaço e identidades sociais.
Na estrada e na lama com Jorge, um brasileiro: trabalho e moradia nas fronteiras do desenvolvimento
Authors: Guedes André Dumans
Published: July 2013

Através de uma leitura do romance Jorge, um brasileiro e me servindo do material produzido em outras pesquisas, busco aqui pensar a relação entre os grandes projetos de desenvolvimento, o trabalho e a mobilidade popular. Discuto inicialmente a atividade dos peões construtores de estradas, articulando-a depois às questões da moradia e do relacionamento empregado-patrão. Argumento que as experiências destes peões, expressas de maneira emblemática por certas ideias associadas à estrada e à lama, oferecem uma entrada privilegiada para se pensar alguns dos sentidos assumidos pelo trabalho nas "camadas populares" de uma maneira mais geral. Ao mesmo tempo, tais ideias articulam temas e contextos aparentemente díspares, determinados significados e práticas comuns relacionando o trabalho, a mobilidade, a moradia, a formação da pessoa e concepções sobre a desigualdade social.
Relações de trabalho nos balatais do Pará
Authors: Carvalho Luciana Gonçalves de
Published: July 2013

Este artigo resulta de pesquisa etnográfica empreendida no Pará junto a dezenas de homens que, nos anos 1940 a 1970, extraíram sistematicamente o látex conhecido como balata. Seu trabalho era fundado em relações altamente hierarquizadas numa cadeia produtiva que os atava a patrões locais e comerciantes estrangeiros, e baseava-se no sistema de aviamento que caracteriza o extrativismo em larga escala na Amazônia brasileira. Os balatais eram seus ambientes de trabalho e morada durante cerca de seis meses por ano, até que seu ofício perdeu interesse no mercado internacional e esses homens viram-se destituídos de profissão e, em muitos casos, de família e patrimônio, já que haviam dedicado longos períodos da vida à estada na floresta. Busca-se, por meio do registro de memórias e narrativas biográficas de balateiros, hoje idosos, reconstituir os contextos, processos, laços e sentidos que o trabalho nos balatais assumiu na experiência social desses homens.
A aula pública como instrumento preditor de desempenho docente no ensino superior
Authors: Apio Adriana Linhares , Silvino Alexandre Magno Dias
Published: July 2013

Este artigo apresenta uma pesquisa que investigou a aula pública enquanto instrumento de seleção no ensino superior em uma IES privada com fins lucrativos, localizada no DF. A IES é autorizada junto ao Ministério da Educação - MEC e possui todos os seus cursos reconhecidos, bem como oferece pós-graduação lato sensu. A pesquisa teve como objetivo avaliar se a aula pública, enquanto instrumento de seleção é um bom preditor de desempenho docente no ensino superior em IES privada, sendo H1 - A aula pública é preditora do desempenho docente quando avaliado por alunos foi corroborada e H2 -Há forte correlação entre os resultados de Avaliação Pública - AP e da Avaliação Discente - AD. Em decorrência dos resultados observados, verifica-se a necessidade de melhorar o instrumento de avaliação de AP. Uma medida alternativa pode ser oferecer treinamento para as pessoas que avaliam. O método aplicado se define como pesquisa aplicada e de profundidade descritiva; estudo de campo, exploratória e análise documental, tanto dados primários quanto secundários.
Gestão nas escolas médicas e sustentabilidade dos programas de desenvolvimento docente
Authors: Almeida Maria Tereza Carvalho , Maia Fernanda Alves , Batista Nildo Alves
Published: July 2013

O objetivo deste trabalho consistiu em conhecer a percepção dos docentes, que trabalham em escolas médicas que utilizam métodos ativos de ensino/aprendizagem sobre o desempenho e a importância da gestão na sustentabilidade dos Programas de Desenvolvimento Docente (PDD). Os sujeitos desta pesquisa foram 115 professores do curso de medicina de uma Universidade Estadual que trabalham com a Aprendizagem Baseada em Problemas (ABP) e Problematização e já desempenharam as diversas funções docentes propostas. Na coleta de dados utilizamos um questionário com assertivas relacionadas à temática pesquisada e análise do grau de concordância e/ou discordância que foram sistematizadas, classificadas, tabuladas e dispostas em gráficos. Para o aprofundamento da pesquisa, utilizamos a entrevista semi-estruturada, cujos dados foram submetidos à análise temática. Os resultados indicam fragilidades da gestão em relação à sustentabilidade do PDD. Os docentes ressaltam que este programa somente será efetivo se a gestão do curso garantir a sua sustentabilidade, o que implica assumir a sua importância, institucionalização, planejamento e apoio na implantação e execução. Eles não falam sobre a ação dos gestores dessa instituição no PDD, mas enfatizam sim o despreparo dos mesmos, as consequências dessa falta de preparo e assumem a necessidade do próprio preparo para assumir as funções de gestores propostas nos métodos ativos. Eles reconhecem a avaliação formativa como um importante instrumento de gestão, porém destacam que ela não tem sido utilizada de forma efetiva. No exercício de qualquer uma das suas atividades o gestor é constantemente avaliador, portanto, acredita-se que se a avaliação estivesse sendo utilizada pelos gestores como um instrumento formativo dos atores envolvidos e do processo de ensino/aprendizagem, nesta pesquisa, não teriam aparecido tantas fragilidades relativas à gestão, o que possivelmente permitiria maior sustentabilidade ao PDD. São necessários outros estudos que aprofundem esta discussão, uma vez que se trata de um tema de grande relevância e importância.
A discussão sobre avaliação nas reuniões anuais da ANPEd no período 2000 a 2010
Authors: Silva Itamar Mendes da
Published: July 2013

O presente trabalho objetiva refletir sobre e divulgar resultados de investigação que buscou identificar a presença da discussão da temática avaliação nos trabalhos e pôsteres disponibilizados no sítio da ANPEd no período de 2000 a 2010. Focou-se o espaço ocupado pela avaliação nos GTs em que se organizam as Reuniões Anuais. Os resultados do estudo qualitativo indicaram que a temática representa menos de 3% do total de trabalhos e que as origens principais destes são pesquisas. Os/as autores/as, em geral, têm apenas um trabalho sobre o tema divulgado nos Anais. Também foi possível identificar reduzido número de autores/as produzindo continuadamente sobre o tema e concentração da produção em instituições do sudeste.
A inclusão do estudante-trabalhador e do trabalhador-estudante na educação superior: desafio público a ser enfrentado
Authors: Vargas Hustana Maria , Paula Maria de Fátima Costa de
Published: July 2013

O artigo trata da democratização da educação superior compreendida como um processo que se realiza integralmente com a conclusão dos cursos por parte dos estudantes, tendo como alvo privilegiado a inclusão das camadas subalternizadas. Mostra que, embora a grande maioria dos nossos estudantes trabalhe, as políticas públicas e a legislação brasileira não contemplam a particularidade dessa condição, dificultando a permanência do estudante-trabalhador e do trabalhador-estudante na universidade. Discute esta problemática com foco num curso noturno ofertado em Instituições Federais de Educação Superior, as quais se encontram em processo de expansão, pretensamente inclusiva. Finalmente, considerando que as dificuldades de conciliação entre as atividades de estudo e trabalho são enfrentadas por políticas públicas de outros países, traz os casos português e cubano sobre o assunto, de forma a nortear possíveis encaminhamentos desse dilema em nosso país.
Antecedentes e consequências dos conflitos entre trabalho e família
Authors: Oliveira Lucia Barbosa de , Cavazotte Flávia de Souza Costa Neves , Paciello Raul Ricardo
Published: July 2013

A interface entre trabalho e família tem atraído a atenção de pesquisadores ao longo das últimas três décadas (Greenhaus, 2008). Transformações no contexto do trabalho e uma maior preocupação com o equilíbrio entre vida pessoal e vida profissional têm contribuído para ampliar o interesse pelo tema. A partir de uma amostra de 296 trabalhadores com nível superior, foram testadas hipóteses formuladas com base no modelo proposto por Anderson, Coffey e Byerly (2002). Em primeiro lugar, avaliaram-se os impactos de políticas organizacionais (flexibilidade de horário e apoio no cuidado com dependentes) e de práticas informais (suporte gerencial e percepção de consequências na carreira) sobre o conflito trabalho-família (CTF) e o conflito família-trabalho (CFT). Também foram testadas hipóteses relativas às consequências desses conflitos, especificamente satisfação no trabalho, intenção de deixar a empresa, estresse e absenteísmo. Os resultados indicaram que o suporte gerencial contribui para reduzir o CTF, enquanto que a percepção de consequências na carreira tende a promovê-lo. Com relação às consequências dos conflitos, foram encontrados impactos significativos sobre a satisfação no trabalho, o estresse e a intenção de deixar a empresa, mas não sobre o absenteísmo.
Hedge e especulação com derivativos cambiais: evidências de operações cotidianas
Authors: Lopes João Luiz Guillaumon , Schiozer Rafael Felipe , Sheng Hsia Hua
Published: July 2013

Este trabalho investiga a dinâmica no uso de derivativos de moedas por parte de empresas não financeiras brasileiras a partir de um banco de dados único, que contém 29 mil operações de balcão efetivamente contratadas por essas empresas junto a um grande banco internacional, entre 2003 e 2011. Embora pesquisas no Brasil (Novaes & Oliveira, 2005; Rossi, 2011) e nos EUA (Géczy, Milton, & Schrand, 2007) apontem para a existência de uma conduta especulativa nas decisões dos gestores, o efetivo impacto desse tipo de comportamento nas decisões da empresa ainda é pouco conhecido, bem como suas implicações para a gestão financeira de riscos e a governança corporativa. Nossa metodologia compara os retornos de contratos que foram mantidos até o vencimento, com os de contratos cuja liquidação foi antecipada pelas empresas. Os resultados mostram que, no período de 2003 a 2008, houve um forte componente especulativo nas decisões cotidianas de tomada e desmonte de posições com derivativos cambiais das empresas. Já no período de 2009 a 2011, não se identifica tal comportamento especulativo, em linha com os resultados de Coutinho, Sheng e Lora (2012). Os resultados reforçam a evidência de que as grandes perdas com derivativos cambiais em 2008 tenham funcionado como um alerta para gestores, conselheiros, investidores e reguladores, que passaram a monitorar mais atentamente as operações com derivativos.
Inovação global de subsidiárias estrangeiras localizadas em mercados emergentes
Authors: Costa Sidney , Borini Felipe Mendes , Amatucci Marcos
Published: July 2013

O presente artigo tem como objetivo mostrar que a inovação global em subsidiárias estrangeiras instaladas em mercados emergentes depende dos contextos competitivos nacional e internacional. A dependência é direta no âmbito internacional e indireta no contexto competitivo nacional. Isso porque as subsidiárias precisam se inserir nas redes externas do país hospedeiro para se valer dos benefícios do contexto competitivo nacional. Nesse intuito, o artigo utiliza como objeto de investigação as subsidiárias estrangeiras instaladas no Brasil como representantes das subsidiárias hospedadas em mercados emergentes. Para tanto, faz uso de modelos de equações estruturais. O resultado sugere que as subsidiárias estrangeiras localizadas em mercados emergentes que praticam atividades de inovação global usam estratégias diferenciadas para acessar os recursos do ambiente externo. Para aproveitar os benefícios do contexto competitivo nacional do país hospedeiro, elas precisam se envolver em redes técnicas como meio de superar as adversidades do local e aprender a operar no mercado emergente. Por sua vez, as subsidiárias integradas em cadeias produtivas globais fazem uso direto do contexto competitivo internacional localizado em países desenvolvidos.
Educação para a sustentabilidade: a construção de caminhos no Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Rio Grande do Sul (IFRS)
Authors: Palma Lisiane Celia , Alves Nilo Barcelos , Silva Tânia Nunes da
Published: July 2013

Os Institutos Federais de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia (IFs) foram recentemente criados no Brasil. Eles têm como objetivo suprir a demanda de mão de obra técnica qualificada, que tem aumentado no país, e agregar qualidade aos currículos, buscando integrar conhecimentos básicos e técnicos e preparar os estudantes para a vida e para o exercício da cidadania. Sendo assim, demonstram em seus documentos ter preocupação com questões ligadas ao desenvolvimento sustentável. Alguns estudos têm apontado a importância da inserção de debates sobre a educação para a sustentabilidade nas instituições de ensino e também nos cursos da área de gestão. Deste modo, o presente estudo tem por objetivo identificar como questões relacionadas ao assunto estão sendo tratadas nos IFs brasileiros, especialmente no Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Rio Grande do Sul (IFRS). Para tanto, foi realizada uma pesquisa de caráter exploratório, delineado por um escopo descritivo, para verificar como a sustentabilidade tem sido abordada nos cursos do IFRS relacionados ao eixo tecnológico gestão e negócios. Para definição dos cursos, utilizou-se como referência o Catálogo Nacional de Cursos Superiores em Tecnologia e o Catálogo Nacional de Cursos Técnicos do Ministério da Educação. Observou-se que, apesar do IFRS apresentar em seus documentos uma preocupação com o assunto, não existe uma política institucional que integre as ações relativas à sustentabilidade na organização em geral, sendo que a introdução do tema nos cursos acontece de formas diversas, por iniciativa de alguns professores. Contudo, projetos que buscam a inserção da sustentabilidade em cursos da área de gestão e negócios já podem ser verificados, como os que estão sendo desenvolvidos nos campi Canoas e Osório, que também são apresentados no presente trabalho. É importante salientar que os projetos encontram-se em fase de implementação, o que impossibilita uma avaliação com relação aos seus resultados. Entretanto, estes podem servir de base para ações que podem ocorrer na instituição e de modelo para outros níveis e instituições de ensino.
Microphytobenthic biomass on a subtropical intertidal flat of Paranaguá bay (Southern Brazil): spatio-temporal distribution and the influence of environmental conditions
Authors: Fonseca Alessandra Larissa D'Oliveira , Machado Eunice da Costa , Brandini Frederico Pereira , Brandini Nilva
Published: July 2013

Seasonal and spatial dynamics of the microphytobenthic biomass on a subtropical intertidal sand flat (25°32'S; 48°24'W) was investigated monthly from September 1995 to July 1996. Chlorophyll-a and Phaeophytin-a contents, temperature, salinity, inorganic nitrogen and phosphate pore water concentrations and sediment characteristics were assessed in the upper (HW), middle (MW) and lower (LW) sections of the flat. Microphytobenthic biomass content showed a conspicuous seasonal and spatial gradient. Higher chlorophyll-a contents were registered in the HW section of the tidal flat (from 11.78 µg.gsed-1 to 38.18 µg.gsed-1) decreasing towards the LW section (from 6.23 µg.gsed-1 to 18.23 µg.gsed-1). Microphytobenthic seasonality was determined mainly by turbulence of the water column, which was influenced by atmospheric events. The sediment properties and nutrient concentrations had a significant effect on the spatial and seasonal distribution of pigments on the intertidal flat.
Reproductive aspects of the oceanic whitetip shark, Carcharhinus longimanus (Elasmobranchii: Carcharhinidae), in the equatorial and southwestern Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Tambourgi Mirna Regina dos Santos , Hazin Fábio H.V. , Oliveira Paulo G.V. , Coelho Rui , Burgess George , Roque Pollyana C. G.
Published: July 2013

The present study sought to study the reproductive biology of the oceanic whitetip shark, Carcharhinus longimanus, in the equatorial and southwestern Atlantic Ocean. A total of 234 specimens were collected as bycatch during pelagic longline fisheries targeting tunas and swordfish, between December 2003 and December 2010. The fishing area was located between latitudes 10N and 35S and longitudes 3E and 40W. Of the 234 individuals sampled, 118 were females (with sizes ranging from 81 to 227 cm TL, total length) and 116 males (ranging from 80 to 242 cm TL). The reproductive stages of the females were classed as immature, mature, preovulatory and pregnant, while males were divided into immature, maturing and mature. The size at maturity for females was estimated at 170.0 cm TL, while that for males was between 170.0 and 190.0 cm TL. Ovarian fecundity ranged from 1 to 10 follicles and uterine fecundity from 1 to 10 embryos. The reproductive cycle of this species is most likely biennial, with parturition occurring once every two years.
Shear behaviour of rock joints with unsaturated infill
Authors: INDRARATNA B. , PREMADASA W. , BROWN E.T.
Published: July 2013

Behaviour of soil-infilled rock joints has significant importance with respect to the strength of fractured rock mass. The presence of even a small amount of fine-grained infill material within a joint can reduce its shear strength considerably, depending on the degree of saturation of infill. Therefore, it is crucial to examine how the infill material can adversely affect the joint shear strength. Previous studies of infilled joints have mainly been focused on idealised regular joint patterns owing to the simplicity and reproducibility in laboratory testing. Current literature on infilled rock joints has also neglected the effect of the degree of saturation of infill on the shear behaviour. In most instances, fully saturated infill has been used or assumed, and the contribution of matric suction on the shear strength of joints having unsaturated infill has not been studied. In this study, a series of triaxial tests on natural joint profiles having joint roughness coefficient (JRC) of 10–12 is carried out at constant moisture content. A semi-empirical model is proposed and validated on the basis of laboratory data.
How to sell ecosystem services: a guide for designing new markets
Authors: Banerjee Simanti , Secchi Silvia , Fargione Joseph , Polasky Stephen , Kraft Steven
Published: July 2013

Payments for ecosystem services (PES) can improve environmental quality by aligning the incentives of individual landowners with societal interests in providing valuable ecosystem services such as carbon storage, water quality, flood control, and wildlife habitat. However, for this potential to be realized, many institutional details and technical challenges must be addressed. In this review, we discuss six critical issues for creating effective PES markets: using the appropriate type of market institution, defining suitable spatial and temporal scales for the market, promoting additionality (avoiding payments for services that would have been provided even in the absence of payments) so that payments result in increased services, offering incentives for projects that generate multiple ecosystem services, considering practice‐based versus performance‐based payments, and eliminating opportunities for strategic behavior aimed at “gaming the system”. We illustrate these issues with an example of how PES could be applied to floodplain restoration.
On an extension of the L-moment approach to modelling distributions which include trend
Authors: Jones D. A.
Published: July 2013

In this paper, extensions of existing L-moment procedures are considered, aiming for ways of assessing changes over time in the distributions of quantities such as annual maxima while avoiding subdivision of data records into possibly overlapping sub-periods. Distributional changes of many types are included: location, scale, skewness, etc. Although direct application of some simple ideas is unsuccessful at providing good estimates of trends, less direct application of the same ideas allows for the implementation of significance tests for changes in shape, for the construction of confidence regions for the quantiles of a distribution that might change with time and for an indirect use of L-moments in estimating trends.
Changes in stage–flow relation of the East River, the Pearl River basin: causes and implications
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Li Kun , Singh Vijay P. , Chen Xiaohong , Li Jianfeng
Published: July 2013

Water level and streamflow extracted from 891 hydrological episodes from both dry and flood seasons covering a period of 1954–2009 were analyzed to investigate stage–flow relations. Results indicate the following. (1) Since the early 1990s the low/high flow is increasing/decreasing. The water level, particularly the high level, is consistently decreasing. An abrupt decrease of water level is observed since the early 1990s at the lower East River. (2) Stage–streamflow relation is usually stable in the river reach with no significant bedform morphological changes. Changes in the geometric shape of the river channel are the major cause of the change in the stage–streamflow relation. (3) An abrupt decrease of water level at the Boluo station is mainly the result of abnormally rapid downcutting of the riverbed due to extensive sand dredging within the channel which caused serious headwater erosion. This human-induced modification by downcutting of the river channel may lead to significant hydrological alterations and may have critical implications for flood control, conservation of eco-environment, and also for basin-wide water resources management in the lower East River basin.
Evaluation of the FAO Penman–Montheith, Priestley–Taylor and Hargreaves models for estimating reference evapotranspiration in southern Malawi
Authors: Ngongondo Cosmo , Xu Chong-Yu , Tallaksen Lena M. , Alemaw Berhanu
Published: July 2013

This study evaluated the performance of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Penman–Monteith (PM) reference evapotranspiration (ET0) method for various limited data scenarios in southern Malawi. The study further evaluated the full data PM method against the radiation-based Priestley–Taylor (PT) and the temperature-based Hargreaves (HAG) methods, which are less data-intensive approaches commonly used to estimate ET0 in data-scarce situations. A comprehensive daily climate dataset observed at the Nchalo Sugar Estate in southern Malawi for the period 1971–2007 was the basis of the study. The results suggested that lack of data on wind speed and actual vapour pressure did not significantly affect the PM ET0 estimates. However, the estimation of radiation using various combinations of observed wind speed and relative humidity all resulted in significant deviations from the PM ET0. Further, the HAG and PT methods significantly underestimated the PM. However, the PM method computed with estimated climate variables instead of observed climate variables still outperformed both the PT and HAG methods if their original parameters and estimated radiation were used. Thus, new monthly parameters for the PT and the HAG methods are proposed for more accurate daily ET0 estimates.
Multivariate models for rainfall based on Markov modulated Poisson processes
Authors: Thayakaran R. , Ramesh N. I.
Published: July 2013

Point process models for rainfall are constructed generally based on Poisson cluster processes. Most commonly used point process models in the literature were constructed either based on Bartlett–Lewis or Neyman–Scott cluster processes. In this paper, we utilize a class of Cox process models, termed the Markov modulated Poisson process (MMPP), to model rainfall intensity. We use this class of models to analyse rainfall data observed in the form of tip time series from rain gauge tipping buckets in a network of gauges in Somerset, southwest England, recorded by the Hydrological Radar Experiment (HYREX). Univariate and multivariate models are employed to analyse the data recorded at single and multiple sites in the catchment area. As the structure of this proposed class of MMPP models allows us to construct the likelihood function of the observed tip time series, we utilize the maximum likelihood methods in our analysis to make inferences about the rainfall intensity at sub-hourly time scales. The multivariate models are used to analyse rainfall time series jointly at four stations in the region. Properties of the cumulative rainfall in discrete time intervals are studied, and the results of fitting three-state models are presented.
Modelling laminar transport phenomena in a Casson rheological fluid from an isothermal sphere with partial slip
Authors: Subbarao Annasagaram , Prasad Vallampati , Bhaskar Reddy , Anwer Beg
Published: July 2013

The laminar boundary layer flow and heat transfer of Casson non-Newtonian
fluid from a permeable isothermal sphere in the presence of thermal and
hydrodynamic slip conditions is analyzed. The surface of the sphere is
maintained at a constant temperature. The boundary layer conservation
equations, which are parabolic in nature, are normalized into non-similar
form and then solved numerically with the well-tested, efficient, implicit,
stable Keller-box finite-difference scheme. Increasing velocity slip induces
acceleration in the flow near the surface of the sphere and the reverse
effect further from the surface. Increasing velocity slip consistently
enhances temperatures throughout the boundary layer regime. An increase in
thermal slip parameter strongly decelerates the flow and also reduces
temperatures in the boundary layer regime. An increase in Casson rheological
parameter acts to elevate considerably the skin friction (non-dimensional
wall shear stress) and this effect is pronounced at higher values of
tangential coordinate. Temperatures are however very slightly decreased with
increasing values of Casson rheological parameter. Increasing mass flow
injection (blowing) at the sphere surface causes a strong acceleration,
whereas increasing suction is found to induce the opposite effect. The study
finds applications in rheological chocolate food processing.
On a linear fire detection using coaxial cables
Authors: Jevtic Radoje , Blagojevic Milan
Published: July 2013

Alarm systems represent a combination of the various modern engineering
solutions (electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, etc.) with the primary goal to
protect human lives, living and working environment and material properties.
Detectors are basic and common components of these systems. There are many
different kinds of detectors which usage depends on system solutions, prices
and other technical properties of system application. Different types of
non-typical lines can be used as detectors in alarm systems, such as coaxial
cables or special constructed electrical lines. The change of some parameters
of cables, such as capacity, impedance, resistance or similar, according to
temperature, pressure, torsion or other disturbances, can be used for
detection of intruder or fire. This work presents experimental results
obtained on three different types of coaxial cables: RF 75-3-1, RF 75-4-5 and
RF 75-7-9 in order to show changes of capacity as a consequence of heating
due to growth of surrounding temperature, and consequently, possible
application of cables as fire detector. Before an experiment, a simulation of
fire in laboratory 113 in Electrotechnical school Nikola Tesla in Nis was
made in FDS (Fire dynamic simulator) software to show the possible spreading
of fire, and consequently, to find optimal location for coaxial cables as
fire detectors.
Investigating englacial reflections with vibro- and explosive-seismic surveys at Halvfarryggen ice dome, Antarctica
Authors: Hofstede Coen , Eisen Olaf , Diez Anja , Jansen Daniela , Kristoffersen Yngve , Lambrecht Astrid , Mayer Christoph
Published: July 2013

Explosive seismic reflection data from Halvfarryggen, a 910 m thick local ice dome of the Antarctic ice sheet, show numerous laterally continuous reflections within the ice between 300 and 870 m depth. We compare the quality of data obtained with explosive sources with that obtained using a vibroseis source for detecting englacial reflections with a snowstreamer, and investigate the origin of englacial reflections. We find vibroseis in combination with a snowstreamer is ten times more productive than explosive seismics. However, englacial reflections are more clearly visible with explosives, which have a broader bandwidth signature, than the vibroseis, which is band-limited at the high-frequency end to 100 Hz. Only the strongest and deepest englacial reflection is detected with vibroseis. We interpret the majority of englacial reflections to originate from changes in the crystal orientation fabric in closely spaced layers, less than the vibro-seismic tuning thickness of 13.5 m. Phase analysis of the lowermost englacial reflector, 40 m above the bed, indicates a sharp increase in seismic wave speed. We interpret this reflector as a transition to a vertical single-maximum fabric. Our findings support current results from anisotropic ice-flow models, that crystal fabric is highly anisotropic at ice domes, both laterally and vertically.
Internal structure of the ice sheet between Kohnen station and Dome Fuji, Antarctica, revealed by airborne radio-echo sounding
Authors: Steinhage Daniel , Kipfstuhl Sepp , Nixdorf Uwe , Miller Heinz
Published: July 2013

This study aims to demonstrate that deep ice cores can be synchronized using internal horizons in the ice between the drill sites revealed by airborne radio-echo sounding (RES) over a distance of >1000km, despite significant variations in glaciological parameters, such as accumulation rate between the sites. In 2002/03 a profile between the Kohnen station and Dome Fuji deep ice-core drill sites, Antarctica, was completed using airborne RES. The survey reveals several continuous internal horizons in the RES section over a length of 1217 km. The layers allow direct comparison of the deep ice cores drilled at the two stations. In particular, the counterpart of a visible layer observed in the Kohnen station (EDML) ice core at 1054 m depth has been identified in the Dome Fuji ice core at 575 m depth using internal RES horizons. Thus the two ice cores can be synchronized, i.e. the ice at 1560 m depth (at the bottom of the 2003 EDML drilling) is ∼49ka old according to the Dome Fuji age/depth scale, using the traced internal layers presented in this study.
Compressional and EM wave velocity anisotropy in a temperate glacier due to basal crevasses, and implications for water content estimation
Authors: Bradford John H. , Nichols Joshua , Harper Joel T. , Meierbachtol Toby
Published: July 2013

We have conducted a series of experiments designed to investigate elastic and electromagnetic (EM) velocity anisotropy associated with a preferentially aligned fracture system on a temperate valley glacier in south-central Alaska, USA. Measurements include a three-dimensional compressional wave (P-wave) seismic reflection survey conducted over a 300 m x 300 m survey patch, with uniform source grid and static checkerboard receiver pattern. Additionally, we acquired a multi-azimuth, multi-offset, polarimetric ground-penetrating radar (GPR) reflection experiment in a wagon-wheel geometry with 94° of azimuthal coverage. Results show azimuthal variation in the P-wave normal-moveout velocity of >3% (3765 and 3630 m s–1 in the fast and slow directions respectively) and difference of nearly 5% between the fast (0.164 m ns–1) and slow (0.156 m ns–1) EM velocities. Fracture orientations estimated from the GPR and seismic velocity data are consistent and indicate a preferred fracture orientation that is 30-45° oblique to glacier flow; these measurements agree with borehole observations. Anisotropic analysis of the polarimetric data gives a single volumetric water content estimate of 0.73 ±0.11%. We conclude that meaningful estimates of physical properties in glaciers based on EM or seismic velocity measurements require collecting data such that the presence of anisotropy can be evaluated and an anisotropic analysis employed when necessary.
Planning for pilgrims: St Andrews as the second Rome
Authors: Campbell Ian
Published: July 2013

The planning of the burgh of St Andrews, founded in the twelfth century, with two major streets converging on the cathedral, resembles that of the Vatican Borgo, created in the ninth century. It is proposed that St Andrews was consciously modelled on the Borgo, and that the major dimensions of the cathedral are taken from Old St Peter's and St John Lateran, as part of an unsuccessful campaign to have St Andrews recognised as an apostolic see like its rival Compostela, the only other shrine in western Europe beyond Italy to claim the relics of an apostle.
Reflective Practice as a Fuel for Organizational Learning
Authors: Hilden Sanna , Tikkamäki Kati
Published: July 2013

Learning theories and their interpretations in management research recognize the role of reflection as a central element in the learning process. There also exists a broad consensus that organizational learning (OL) happens at three intertwined levels of the individual, the group and the organization. This tri-level analysis has been most influentially presented by Crossan, Lane and White (1999), as a premise for their 4I framework of OL. Though the 4I framework builds strongly on existing literature on OL, it does not address the role of reflection as a factor operating between the inputs and outcomes in 4I sub-processes. Though a large body of research exists regarding the notion of reflection and its importance in terms of OL, this has not been discussed in the specific context of the 4I framework. This article contributes to the development of the 4I model by discussing how reflective practice—on three levels and within 4I sub-processes—fuels the OL process. The argumentation is based on an extensive literature review in three dimensions of learning, illustrated with an empirical inquiry into three business organizations and their reflective practice. In addition, the aim is to increase the understanding of reflection as not only an individual or group process, but as an organized practice, enabled by the tools of management control.
Regulation of Cytoskeleton Organization by Sphingosine in a Mouse Cell Model of Progressive Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Creekmore Amy , Heffron C. , Brayfield Bradley , Roberts Paul , Schmelz Eva
Published: July 2013

Ovarian cancer is a multigenic disease and molecular events driving ovarian cancer progression are not well established. We have previously reported the dysregulation of the cytoskeleton during ovarian cancer progression in a syngeneic mouse cell model for progressive ovarian cancer. In the present studies, we investigated if the cytoskeleton organization is a potential target for chemopreventive treatment with the bioactive sphingolipid metabolite sphingosine. Long-term treatment with non-toxic concentrations of sphingosine but not other sphingolipid metabolites led to a partial reversal of a cytoskeleton architecture commonly associated with aggressive cancer phenotypes towards an organization reminiscent of non-malignant cell phenotypes. This was evident by increased F-actin polymerization and organization, a reduced focal adhesion kinase expression, increased a-actinin and vinculin levels which together led to the assembly of more mature focal adhesions. Downstream focal adhesion signaling, the suppression of myosin light chain kinase expression and hypophosphorylation of its targets were observed after treatment with sphingosine. These results suggest that sphingosine modulate the assembly of actin stress fibers via regulation of focal adhesions and myosin light chain kinase. The impact of these events on suppression of ovarian cancer by exogenous sphingosine and their potential as molecular markers for treatment efficacy warrants further investigation.
Reading the Wrong Way with the Right Hemisphere
Authors: Waldie Karen , Haigh Charlotte , Badzakova-Trajkov Gjurgjica , Buckley Jude , Kirk Ian
Published: July 2013

Reading is a complex process, drawing on a variety of brain functions in order to link symbols to words and concepts. The three major brain areas linked to reading and phonological analysis include the left temporoparietal region, the left occipitotemporal region and the inferior frontal gyrus. Decreased activation of the left posterior language system in dyslexia is well documented but there is relatively limited attention given to the role of the right hemisphere. The current study investigated differences in right and left hemisphere activation between individuals with dyslexia and non-impaired readers in lexical decision tasks (regular words, irregular words, pseudowords) during functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI). Results revealed the expected hypo-activation in the left posterior areas in those with dyslexia but also areas of overactivation in the right hemisphere. During pseudoword decisions, for example, adults with dyslexia showed more right inferior occipital gyrus activation than controls. In general the increased activation of left-hemisphere language areas found in response to both regular and pseudowords was absent in dyslexics. Laterality indices showed that while controls showed left lateralised activation of the temporal lobe during lexical decision making, dyslexic readers showed right activation. Findings will inform theories of reading and will have implications for the design of reading interventions.
Photovoltaic System Equipped with Digital Command Control and Acquisition
Authors: Yaden Med , Melhaoui Mustapha , Gaamouche Rajae , Hirech Kamal , Baghaz Elhadi , Kassmi Khalil
Published: July 2013

In this paper, we present results concerning the design, the realization and the characterization of a photovoltaic system (PV), equipped with a digital controls: Power Point Tracking (MPPT), charge/discharge lead acid batteries, sun tracker and supervision. These different functions are performed with a microcontroller that has capabilities and functions to the reliability of PV systems (signal generation Pulses Width Modulation (PWM), speed etc.). Concerning the MPPT control operation, we improved the accuracy and reliability of research by improving the search algorithm “Hill Climbing” taking into account the optimal operation of PV panels depending on weather conditions (temperature and light).The experiment of each block shows that the MPPT control converges instantly the operating point of the PV panels around the maximum power point, independently of sudden changes of the illumination or the load. The control blocks charge/discharge battery and sun tracking show good control of charge/discharge lead acid batteries and the need of sun tracker to increase the power supplied by the PV panel. By using the improved MPPT control, loss of power supplied by the PV panels are very low (below 5%).
Internet Access by People with Intellectual Disabilities: Inequalities and Opportunities
Authors: Chadwick Darren , Wesson Caroline , Fullwood Chris
Published: July 2013

This review gives an overview of the societal inequalities faced by people with intellectual disabilities, before focusing specifically on challenges people face accessing the Internet. Current access will be outlined along with the societal, support and attitudinal factors that can hinder access. Discussion of carer views of Internet use by people with intellectual disabilities will be covered incorporating consideration of the tension between protection, self-determination and lifestyle issues and gaining Internet access. We will address how impairment related factors may impede access and subsequently discuss how supports may be used to obfuscate impairments and facilitate access. We will move on from this to critically describe some of the potential benefits the Internet could provide to people with intellectual disabilities, including the potential for self-expression, advocacy and developing friendships. Finally, strategies to better include people with intellectual disabilities online will be given along with future research suggestions.
Distal and Proximal Factors of Health Behaviors and Their Associations with Health in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Lämmle Lena , Woll Alexander , Mensink Gert , Bös Klaus
Published: July 2013

Objective: The aim of the present paper was to analyze factors affecting distal and proximal health behavior within a biopsychosocial model for examining their interactions and associations with respect to health. Methods: Path analysis was based on the nationwide, cross-sectional German Health Interview and Examination Survey for Children and Adolescents (2003 to 2006). The data was collected from 4,529 participants with an average age of 9.45 years (SD = 4.01). Socio-demographic data, psychosocial factors and health behavior were assessed via questionnaire. Participants also underwent physical fitness tests and a medical examination. Results: Over the five levels of the model analyzed with socioeconomic status, immigration background, and rural-urban differences on the first level; physical activity of relatives and peers, intrinsic motivation, and quality of life on the second level; eating patterns, sedentary behavior, and physical activity on the third level; physical fitness and objective health on the fourth level; and health complaints and subjective health on the fifth level; direct, moderation, and mediation effects could be shown. Conclusions: Several distal and proximal factors are needed to take account of the multivariate complexity of health: e.g., immigration background affected health behaviors only indirectly and the effect of physical activity on objective health was mediated by physical fitness.
Extracellular MicroRNAs in Urologic Malignancies: Chances and Challenges
Authors: Huang Xiaoyi , Liang Meihua , Dittmar Rachel , Wang Liang
Published: July 2013

Small noncoding RNAs that are 19-23 nucleotides long, known as microRNAs (miRNAs), are involved in almost all biological mechanisms during carcinogenesis. Recent studies show that miRNAs released from live cells are detectable in body fluids and may be taken up by other cells to confer cell-cell communication. These released miRNAs (here referred to as extracellular miRNAs) are often protected by RNA-binding proteins or embedded inside circulating microvesicles. Due to their relative stability, extracellular miRNAs are believed to be promising candidates as biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis of disease, or even as therapeutic agents for targeted treatment. In this review, we first describe biogenesis and characteristics of these miRNAs. We then summarize recent publications involving extracellular miRNA profiling studies in three representative urologic cancers, including: prostate cancer, bladder cancer, and renal cell carcinoma. We focus on the diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic potential of these miRNAs in biological fluids, such as serum, plasma, and urine. Finally, we discuss advantages and challenges of these miRNAs in clinical applications.
Genetic Diversity of the Critically Endangered Thuja sutchuenensis Revealed by ISSR Markers and the Implications for Conservation
Authors: Liu Jianfeng , Shi Shengqing , Chang Ermei , Yang Wenjuan , Jiang Zeping
Published: July 2013

Thuja sutchuenensis Franch. is a critically endangered plant endemic to the North-East Chongqing, China. Genetic variation was studied to assess the distribution of genetic diversity within and among seven populations from the single remnant locations, using inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers. A total of 15 primers generated 310 well defined bands, with an average of 20.7 bands per primer. The seven populations revealed a relatively high level of genetic diversity in the species. The percentage of polymorphic bands, Nei’s gene diversity and Shannon’s information index at the population and species level were 76.1%, 0.155, 0.252 and 100%, 0.165, 0.295, respectively. A low level of genetic differentiation among populations (GST = 0.102), in line with the results of Analyses of Molecular Variance (AMOVA), and a high level of gene flow (Nm = 4.407) were observed. Both the Unweighted Pair Group Method with Arithmatic Mean (UPGMA) cluster analysis and Principal Coordinates Analysis (PCoA) supported the grouping of all seven populations into two groups. In addition, Mantel test revealed no significant correlation between genetic and geographical distances (r = 0.329, p = 0.100). The low genetic differentiation among populations implies that the conservation efforts should aim to preserve all the extant populations of this endangered species.
Proteolytic Cleavage of Apolipoprotein E4 as the Keystone for the Heightened Risk Associated with Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Rohn Troy
Published: July 2013

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by microscopic lesions consisting of beta-amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs). The majority of cases are defined as sporadic and are likely caused by a combination of both genetic and environmental factors. Of the genetic risk factors identified, the 34 kDa protein, apolipoprotein (apo) E4, is of significant importance as APOE4 carriers account for 65%–80% of all AD cases. Although apoE4 plays a normal role in lipoprotein transport, how it contributes to AD pathogenesis is currently unknown. One potential mechanism by which apoE4 contributes to disease risk is its propensity to undergo proteolytic cleavage generating N- and C-terminal fragments. The purpose of this review will be to examine the mechanisms by which apoE4 contributes to AD pathogenesis focusing on the potential loss or gain of function that may occur following cleavage of the full-length protein. In this context, a discussion of whether targeting apoE4 therapeutically is a rationale approach to treating this disease will be assessed.