bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estudo de caso sobre o uso do controle da qualidade em uma indústria do setor de petróleo e gás
Authors: Sobral Marcos Felipe Falcao , Cavalcanti André Marques , Cabral Romilson Marques , Moutinho Lucia Maria Góes , Moraes Filho Rodolfo Araújo de
Published: December 2015

Neste artigo, apresenta-se uma pesquisa sobre a aplicação do controle estatístico do processo e um estudo da capacidade em uma planta de envase de gás liquefeito de petróleo. A empresa realizou uma substituição em seu sistema de enchimento de cilindros, gerando a necessidade de verificar se o processo estaria sob controle e dentro dos limites de especificação do mercado. Para tanto, foi realizada a amostragem sobre a produção e, em seguida, a análise com base no controle estatístico do processo, por meio dos gráficos X e R. Também foram calculados os índices de capacidade Cp, Cpk, Pp e Ppk. Ao final, foi possível direcionar ações para melhoria do processo dia após dia, além de verificar se o processo estaria sob controle e atendendo aos seus limites de especificação.
Diagnóstico da indústria de confecções a partir do radar e característico de inovação
Authors: Cavalcanti André Marques , Dos Santos Felipe Fernando Ribeiro , De Cerqueira João Antonio Ozório , Gonçalves Nery Eber , De Araújo Barros Camila Maria Dias
Published: December 2015

Atualmente, no Brasil, a indústria de confecções apresenta crescente oferta de empregos e utilização da capacidade instalada. Contudo, baixos índices de investimento em inovação e treinamento para formar e reter a mão de obra preocupam o grande varejo e ameaçam o atendimento à demanda, penalizando o consumidor. Além disso, o aumento da importação de matéria-prima e produtos acabados com preços extremamente competitivos coloca esse setor em situação de crise, pois a maioria das organizações dessa cadeia é de empresas de pequeno porte (EPP). Assim, discutem-se as características que permitem uma capacidade competitiva mais desenvolvida diante dos concorrentes no exterior e entradas de produtos importados no mercado nacional. Realizou-se uma pesquisa survey tomando-se uma amostra de 50 EPPs de mesma região geográfica. Aplicou-se o característico de inovação a partir do radar de inovação, visando a definir quais dimensões devem ser desenvolvidas que permitam obter diferenciais competitivos com base na inovação. Como resultado, identificaram-se as dimensões “soluções”, “agregação de valor” e “rede”, como sendo as condicionantes para desenvolver a capacidade de inovação.
A formação acadêmica em Engenharia de Produção, a demanda do mercado e as unidades curriculares de Instituições de Educação Superior públicas do Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Mello José André Villas Boas , Santos Vivian Janachevitz Duarte dos
Published: December 2015

Objetivou-se analisar os conteúdos abordados pelos principais cursos de graduação em Engenharia de Produção oferecidos por Instituições de Educação Superior (IES) públicas do Estado do Rio de Janeiro e seu alinhamento com os conteúdos abordados em concursos públicos para Engenheiro de Produção. Assim, foram contrapostas três dimensões, a saber: os graduandos interessados em concursos públicos; as empresas que abordam conteúdos em provas para selecionar um profissional com conhecimento dos itens abordados e as IES, que estruturam o currículo da graduação em questão. Observou-se que a Engenharia Econômica teve maior incidência de questões em concursos públicos, estando entre as três áreas com mais disciplinas ofertadas pelas IES, sendo a segunda de maior interesse dos graduandos pesquisados. Concluiu-se que as áreas Engenharia do Produto, Engenharia do Trabalho, Logística e Engenharia da Sustentabilidade são negligenciadas nos currículos dos cursos analisados, sugerindo que em algumas instituições não estejam acompanhando a evolução da sociedade.
Aplicação da metodologia de produção mais limpa em um processo de rotomoldagem como uma ferramenta sustentável aplicada à segurança do trabalho
Authors: Benitez Nara Elpidio Oscar , Gerhard Guilherme , Sehn Kleber Tiggemann , Moraes Jorge André Ribas , Silva André Luiz Emmel
Published: December 2015

Cada vez mais as políticas de responsabilidade social forçam as empresas a preocuparem-se em produzir questionando a variável ambiental e os efeitos da produção sobre o meio em que estão inseridas. Esta pesquisa trata-se de um estudo de caso de uma empresa do setor plástico. Utilizou-se a ferramenta P+L na busca de redução no consumo de luvas de algodão, usadas como EPI, no processo de rotomoldagem. A metodologia segue a proposta do CNTL Senai e resultou em uma ação de Nível 1. Ou seja, reduziu-se a fonte por meio da modificação no processo pela substituição de matéria-prima. Não foi possível eliminar por completo a geração do resíduo. Assim, passou-se a trabalhar com o enfoque de substituir uma matéria-prima com degradação rápida por uma com degradação lenta, a fim de que houvesse menor desgaste das luvas de proteção.
Análise do nível de utilização de Indicadores de Desempenho Logístico: um estudo de caso no cluster portuário-marítimo de Rio Grande
Authors: Longaray André Andrade , Munhoz Paulo Roberto , Tavares Kizy Sorato
Published: December 2015

Neste artigo, analisou-se o nível de utilização dos indicadores de desempenho logístico em organizações do setor portuário-marítimo brasileiro. A pesquisa se caracteriza como de diagnóstico e foi conduzida por meio de um estudo de caso realizado em empresas de um cluster portuário-marítimo, tendo o questionário como instrumento de coleta de dados. A análise dos dados foi predominantemente quantitativa e fez uso da estatística descritiva e inferencial. Percebeu-se que 60% das empresas avaliadas utilizam entre 15 e 30 indicadores de desempenho, e, dos 39 indicadores apresentados, todos são usados por pelo menos quatro organizações. Foi observado, também, que, para a maior parte das empresas, os indicadores logísticos estão identificados; porém, poucas os empregam para apoiarem suas decisões.
Método de solução de problemas na gestão de suprimentos: utilização de regressão logística para análise das causas de atrasos no recebimento de materiais
Authors: Vieira Danilo Garbazza , Lima Gilson Brito Alves , Sant'Anna Annibal Parracho
Published: December 2015

Neste trabalho, objetivou-se apresentar um método de solução de problemas na gestão de suprimentos, tendo como base uma análise quantitativa para auxiliar a tomada de decisão. O modelo proposto constitui um desenvolvimento do método QC Story, a partir da aplicação da técnica estatística de regressão logística. Um estudo de caso é desenvolvido para demonstrar como o QC Story pode ser conduzido e aplicado com efetividade na gestão do suprimento. O problema estudado é o alto índice de materiais comprados que são entregues fora do prazo requerido pelos clientes internos, considerando uma empresa brasileira da indústria de energia. A utilização da análise de regressão logística em conjunto com o método QC Story gerou resultados satisfatórios, permitindo que fosse constatada qual a causa que mais impactava nos atrasos. Por fim, o modelo permitiu ainda quantificar a relação de influência que cada causa tem sobre a probabilidade de ocorrência de atrasos.
O grau de inovação em diferentes setores da economia: uma abordagem a partir do Grau de Inovação Setorial (GIS)
Authors: Souza-Pinto Helma De , De Oliveira Marcos Roberto Gois , Souto Krissia Barbosa , De Oliveira Tatiana Barros Pinheiro , Chaves Micheline Mendonça
Published: December 2015

Objetivou-se neste trabalho avaliar se há diferença no grau de inovação setorial de dois setores da economia do estado de Pernambuco: panificação e indústria de móveis, medidos entre os anos de 2011 e 2013. Verifica-se que o radar de inovação propõe a análise de forma generalizada para empresas de diversos setores de atividades econômicas. O método de inferência do grau de inovação setorial (GIS) foi utilizado como alternativa ao tradicional com o objetivo de diminuir os efeitos das diferenças setoriais. O GIS normaliza o método tradicional com base nas 13 dimensões da inovação levando em consideração aspectos da heterogeneidade setorial. A análise indicou evolução do setor de móveis, mas observou-se uma evolução discreta no de panificação. Verificou-se também que o setor de panificação de Garanhuns tem um grau de inovação ligeiramente superior ao da Região Metropolitana do Recife.
Identification and Mitigation of Risks associated with Stakeholders in IT Projects: A Case Study in the Period of Merger in the Telecoms Industry
Authors: Glória Júnior Irapuan , Chaves Marcirio Silveira
Published: December 2015

This paper identifies risks associated with stakeholders in IT projects in the period of merger in telecommunications companies and proposes mitigation actions. It adopts an interpretive epistemology in an exploratory case study. The results include a list of unique risks in IT projects in such a period and recommendations for mitigating the risks identified in the study. The theoretical contribution is a list of risks during the merger of telecommunications companies, and the contribution to the practice enables project managers apply the findings identified and mitigations in the risk management in IT projects in a similar setting.
Utilizando a satisfação dos usuários como forma de avaliação de um enterprise resource planning
Authors: Ferreira Adriane Pedroso Dias
Published: December 2015

O constante avanço da informática tem feito com que muitas O constante avanço da informática tem feito com que muitas instituições de ensino mudem radicalmente as suas estratégias de tecnologia da informação e invistam uma grande quantidade de recursos financeiros nesse setor. A avaliação de tais investimentos tem sido apontada na literatura como um dos pontos críticos e determinantes para o sucesso do investimento. Neste artigo, avaliaram-se os resultados da aplicação de um instrumento de pesquisa utilizado para medir a satisfação dos usuários por meio de uma pesquisa survey realizada em um Núcleo de Ensino em Natal/RN. A avaliação pelos usuários objetiva verificar se o sistema ERP adquirido atende as necessidades da empresa. Os resultados obtidos demonstraram que (i) o instrumento é aplicável na avaliação do sistema e (ii) os investimentos para aquisição de um sistema ERP produziram impactos positivos na produtividade, no controle gerencial e na satisfação dos usuários, segundo a percepção destes.
Estimativa da viabilidade de produção de biogás a partir do efluente de indústrias de laticínios no estado de Sergipe utilizando modelagem e simulação
Authors: Santos Jéssica Teles Siqueira , Souza Domingos Fabiano Santana , Abud Ana Karla Souza , OLIVEIRA JUNIOR ANTONIO MARTINS
Published: December 2015

Neste trabalho, objetivou-se mostrar, pela modelagem matemática, que os efluentes gerados pela indústria de laticínios podem ser utilizados na fabricação de biogás. O estudo foi realizado em Sergipe. O digestor anaeróbio empregado para tratamento do efluente foi modelado como um biorreator em batelada, sendo o comportamento cinético interpretado por um modelo de Monod. Levaram-se em consideração duas situações: um efluente que apresenta baixa demanda química de oxigênio (5,5 a 7,7 gO2/L), e um efluente com alta (21,3 e 23,9 gO2/L). O efluente com baixa DQO produziu 900 m3 a 1250 m3de metano, em 28 dias, gerando energia em torno de 9963 a 13837,5 kWh, respectivamente. Já o efluente com alta DQO mostrou valores superiores, 6200 a 6600 m3, gerando 68634 e 73062 mil kWh, em 28 dias. Nas simulações, o biogás obtido poderia suprir parte da energia gasta pelas empresas, representando, assim, uma alternativa viável para as indústrias sergipanas.
Uma proposta de funcionalidades para Sistemas de Informação dedicados à Logística Reversa
Authors: Costa Ivanir , Barboza Marinalva Rodrigues , Gonçalves Rodrigo Franco
Published: December 2015

O estímulo ao consumo e o ciclo de vida reduzido dos produtos resultam em descarte precoce de resíduos em grandes volumes. A logística reversa (LR) trata do manejo e do retorno destes descartes ao ponto de origem ou aos canais reversos de redistribuição. Os sistemas de informação (SI) que apoiam a atividade de logística direta não atendem as especificidades da LR, em algumas etapas do processo, como atendem a logística direta. Assim, neste trabalho, objetivou-se apresentar o fluxo operacional da atividade de logística reversa e descrever um conjunto de funcionalidades de SI dedicado a ela. Avaliaram-se as adequações, tais como adaptações e customizações das funcionalidades de SI para logística direta na logística reversa. Considerando-se aspectos da literatura, propõe-se um conjunto de funcionalidades ou funções sistêmicas para atender a LR em todas as suas etapas. Concluiu-se que existe ausência ou escassez de soluções específicas de SI para atender a todo o processo de logística reversa mediante um sistema integrado.
Análise dos Efeitos da Gestão Ambiental no Desempenho Organizacional de Oficinas de Reparação Automotiva no Município de São Paulo
Authors: Mangueira Flávio Olímpio , Gallardo Amarilis Lucia Casteli Figueiredo , Gabriel Marcelo Luiz Dias da Silva
Published: December 2015

As oficinas de reparação automotiva representam um importante segmento de pós-venda do setor automotivo, cujos serviços causam impactos ambientais. Neste estudo, considerou-se a seguinte questão orientadora: “Como a adoção de práticas de gestão ambiental em oficinas de reparação automotiva no município de São Paulo contribui no desempenho organizacional?”. Assim, nesta pesquisa exploratória e quantitativa, aplicou-se um questionário estruturado a 267 proprietários de oficinas, sendo submetido à análise multivariada por meio do modelo de equações estruturais baseado em mínimos quadrados parciais (PLS-SEM). Verificou-se que a relação entre os construtos “gestão ambiental” e “desempenho organizacional” demonstra aderência dos dados amostrais ao modelo causal proposto. Conclui-se que a gestão ambiental influencia positivamente o desempenho organizacional das oficinas de São Paulo. As práticas empregadas nessas oficinas concentram-se na busca da conformidade ambiental, mas não limitadas a esta, como comprovam os investimentos alocados em gestão ambiental; entretanto, ainda é incipiente a maturidade do setor em termos de práticas de gestão ambiental.
[Happiness in organizations: why not in healthcare?]
Authors: Ercoli Anna
Published: December 2015

[Article in Italian]
Comparison between traditional and goal directed perfusion in cardiopulmonary by-pass. Adaptation of a differential cost analysis
Authors: Povero Massimiliano , Pradelli Lorenzo
Published: December 2015

BACKGROUND: A previous patient-level discrete event simulation (DES) model was developed to perform an economic evaluation of GDP strategy with respect to TP in US. Aim of this supplement is provide results of the adaptations of the differential cost analysis to Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, and UK. METHODS: A Discrete Event Simulation model was developed to compare TP and GDP strategy in patients undergoing CPB. National perspective was adopted to calculate costs associated to each event while GDP strategy was exploited the introduction of Sorin Heartlink (HL) Card/GDP Card and Sorin Connect (electronic data management system). RESULTS: GDP reduces the total cost with respect to traditional perfusion; furthermore the cost of GDP strategy (Sorin GDPTM Monitor and Sorin ConnectTM) is completely offset by the saving in hospital stay. CONCLUSION: GDP seems to improve significantly the main outcomes related to CPB surgery, when compared to TP techniques. Additional costs due to perform GDP strategy have no impact on the total cost since completely offset by the savings in hospital cost.
The regulatory and Health Technology processes in Europe and drug market access. The case of cystic fibrosis
Authors: Latorre Martinez Mayra , Serrano Pedro , Sarria Santamera Antonio
Published: December 2015

In order to reach the European market, a new drug needs to receive a positive evaluation regarding its quality, safety and efficacy by regulatory health authorities and also obtain a positive HTA appraisal regarding its cost-effectiveness by HTA bodies. Regulators and HTA bodies are collaborating in several projects at European level in order to harmonize the scientific requirements of both evaluations to the maximum extent possible. The comparison of the regulatory evaluation performed by EMA for Kalydeco and the HTA appraisals issued by several EU bodies exemplifies the dilemma between scientific evidence and local economic considerations and the difficulties in the achievement of harmonization and therefore equity in the access to drugs.
Grief & Loss Resolution among Birth Mothers in Open Adoption
Authors: Krahn Lisa , Sullivan Richard
Published: December 2015

While research has explored birth parent grief and loss, it has not been thorough in exploring how the experience of having an open adoption affects birth parents’ grief and loss experience and resolution. Previous research has highlighted positive effects of open adoptions to date, but is quite limited in regards to the birth parents’ adjustment in current day, open adoptions. This descriptive, qualitative study explores birth parents’ experiences in current day, open adoptions and seeks to understand their experience of grief and loss and their movement towards grief resolution in the context of an open adoption. Findings of this study confirm that the experience of adoption placement involves grief and loss and that openness in adoption helps to mitigate this painful experience. Most notably, birth parents found meaning, comfort, and peace in knowing of their child’s well-being and by having ongoing involvement in the life of the child and adoptive family. This opens new avenues in thinking about adoption and the meanings participants make of it.
Les interventions en matière de sexualité chez les jeunes en situation de rue à Montréal
Authors: Côté Philippe-Benoit , Manseau Hélène , Boucher Kathleen , Provencher Marie-Andrée , Blais Martin
Published: December 2015

Cet article vise à documenter les représentations qu’entretiennent les jeunes en situation de rue des interventions en matière de sexualité. Des entrevues individuelles ont été réalisées auprès de 42 jeunes en situation de rue âgés de 18 à 32 ans. L’analyse qualitative des représentations des jeunes a porté sur trois dimensions : 1) les ressources; 2) le travail réalisé par les intervenants; 3) les interventions en matière de sexualité. Les participants estiment que la capacité des ressources à combler la diversité des besoins des jeunes peut susciter une dépendance et un frein à leur autonomisation. En ce qui concerne le travail réalisé par les intervenants, les participants rapportent que l’accompagnement et la proximité constituent les clés de la relation entre les professionnels et les jeunes. Quant à elles, les interventions en matière de sexualité sont considérées comme pertinentes dans la mesure où elles permettent d’instaurer des espaces de discussion marqués par la confiance et la sensibilité au vécu des jeunes. En complémentarité avec la prévention des infections transmissibles sexuellement et par le sang (ITSS), cette étude suggère la pertinence du modèle de l’accompagnement social afin que les intervenants se sentent à l’aise et compétents de discuter ouvertement et respectueusement de sexualité avec les jeunes en situation de rue.
Soutenir la formation aux pratiques avancées à la maîtrise en travail social
Authors: Picard Louise , Roy Valérie , Villeneuve Patrick , Jacques Nataly , Arsenault Marie-Ève , Gariépy Patricia
Published: December 2015

La formation aux pratiques avancées à la maîtrise en travail social repose sur une intégration optimale des connaissances théoriques, empiriques et méthodologiques pertinentes à l’intervention sociale. Elle vise aussi à développer une attitude réflexive, analytique et critique dans la conceptualisation, la mise en oeuvre et l’évaluation d’une intervention sociale. Toutefois, l’optimisation de cette formation soulève un certain nombre de questions quant aux moyens pédagogiques à mettre en place pour mieux soutenir les étudiants dans le processus d’apprentissage des pratiques avancées en travail social. Le présent article a pour but de présenter la démarche et les résultats d’une recherche réalisée à l’École de service social de l’Université Laval visant à développer une stratégie pédagogique structurante et intégrative permettant d’optimiser le soutien des étudiants et des différents acteurs engagés dans cette formation. Les consultations menées auprès de tous les acteurs visés ont permis de dégager les éléments favorisant ou faisant obstacle au cheminement des étudiants et huit principes pour le choix de la stratégie pédagogique. Les moyens pédagogiques retenus, ainsi que les avantages et défis de la démarche sont également exposés. Les résultats de cette recherche, autant par sa démarche que par ses résultats, fournissent des balises pertinentes pour les universités canadiennes souhaitant réviser leur formation aux pratiques avancées.
Représentations sociales du VIH/sida chez les étudiants de niveau universitaire d’une région éloignée du Québec
Authors: Labra Oscar , Lacasse Anaïs
Published: December 2015

Cet article examine les représentations sociales du VIH/sida de 11 étudiants (six femmes et cinq hommes) de l’Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue ayant participé à deux groupes de discussion stratifiés selon le sexe. Cette étude visait deux objectifs : 1) décrire les représentations sociales du VIH/sida des étudiants, et 2) décrire l’incidence des représentations sociales de ces étudiants sur leur façon de comprendre et d’agir par rapport au VIH/sida. Le discours des participants révèle une attitude positive et une ouverture envers les personnes vivant avec le VIH/sida (PVVIH/sida). Celles-ci sont représentées comme étant des personnes résilientes. Ainsi, cette capacité de résilience nous permet d’affirmer l’hypothèse que les PVVIH/sida peuvent aujourd’hui passer à un nouvel état stable plutôt que de mourir de la maladie comme il y a 30 ans. Cela montre le caractère dynamique de la représentation sociale du VIH/sida dans le temps. Nos résultats montrent aussi chez les participants une différence marquée concernant les mécanismes de prévention. Pour les hommes, cela passe par l’utilisation de préservatifs, pour les femmes, par la confiance en leurs partenaires sexuels. L’étude conclut que les représentations sociales du VIH/sida font partie de la vie quotidienne des étudiants. Elles sont culturellement construites et partagées. L’étude montre la nécessité de concevoir des campagnes de prévention plus assidues avec des messages différenciés selon le sexe chez les jeunes qui pourront mieux prendre en compte la dimension culturelle de ce phénomène.
The Emotional Consequences of Organizational Change
Authors: Grenier Amanda M. , Bidgoli Elham
Published: December 2015

This paper explores the emotional experiences of professionals in a health and social care setting during a process of reform in the Canadian province of Quebec. Characterized as “new public management” or “new managerialism,” public health and social care services in a number of countries have undergone reforms since the early 1980s that focus on efficiency and cost reduction (Nadeau, 1996; Hornblow, 1997; Gross, Rosen, & Chinitz, 1998, Anell, 2005; Levine, 2007; Wimbush, Young, & Robertson, 2007). Although differences exist between the cultural and political contexts within which reforms are implemented, reforms regularly involve changing institutional and organizational structures, the implementation of standard procedures, and the generation of outcome measures for service. The process of reform, and the body of knowledge on organizational change however, tend to overlook the flux of emotions that take place in the everyday lives of professionals. This paper reflects on data from 25 individual interviews collected from a critical ethnography of one health and social care setting during a period of provincial health-care reform in Quebec, Canada (2004-2012). The paper provides an in-depth focus on the emotional consequences of reform as an attempt to understand and expose the human costs of change. Three patterns that professionals used to adapt to change and conflict are discussed: internalization of the reform mandate; rationalization; and creating distance between the reform and their professional or personal selves. Important in their own right, the emotions produced in a period of change provide lessons on the general stressors that surround reform, and demonstrate how health and social care professionals are often caught between policy intentions, professional values, and their personal ambitions.
Genetic variation in offspring indirectly influences the quality of maternal behaviour in mice
Authors: Ashbrook David George , Gini Beatrice , Hager Reinmar
Published: December 2015

Conflict over parental investment between parent and offspring is predicted to lead to selection on genes expressed in offspring for traits influencing maternal investment, and on parentally expressed genes affecting offspring behaviour. However, the specific genetic variants that indirectly modify maternal or offspring behaviour remain largely unknown. Using a cross-fostered population of mice, we map maternal behaviour in genetically uniform mothers as a function of genetic variation in offspring and identify loci on offspring chromosomes 5 and 7 that modify maternal behaviour. Conversely, we found that genetic variation among mothers influences offspring development, independent of offspring genotype. Offspring solicitation and maternal behaviour show signs of coadaptation as they are negatively correlated between mothers and their biological offspring, which may be linked to costs of increased solicitation on growth found in our study. Overall, our results show levels of parental provisioning and offspring solicitation are unique to specific genotypes.
High‐level expression and characterization of a glycosylated human cementum protein 1 with lectin activity
Authors: Romo‐Arévalo Enrique , Arzate Higinio , Montoya‐Ayala Gonzalo , Rodríguez‐Romero Adela
Published: December 2015

This work aims to contribute to the knowledge of human cementum protein 1 (CEMP1), its conformational characteristics and influence during the biomineralization process. The results revealed that hrCEMP1 expressed in Pichia pastoris is a 2.4% glycosylated, thermostable protein which possesses a molecular mass of 28 770 Da. The circular dichroism spectrum indicated a secondary structure content of 28.6% of alpha‐helix, 9.9% of beta‐sheet and 61.5% of random‐coil forms. Biological activity assays demonstrated that hrCEMP1 nucleates and regulates hydroxyapatite crystal growth. Hereby, it is demonstrated for the first time that CEMP1 has a (C‐type) lectin‐like activity and specifically recognizes mannopyranoside. The information produced by this biochemical and structural characterization may contribute to understand more fully the biological functions of CEMP1.
Allelic variation in the vacuolarTPK1 channel affects its calcium dependence and may impact on stomatal conductance
Authors: Hartley Tom N. , Maathuis Frans J. M.
Published: December 2015

Natural variation can be exploited to identify allelic variants of proteins. In this study, patch clamp was used to determine transport properties of two AtTPK1 alleles from Landsberg and Kas‐2 ecotypes. No difference in conductance or ion selectivity was observed but the Kas version ofTPK1 showed different Ca2+dependence in its open probability compared to Ler. Leaves from Kas showed lower rates of water loss than those of Ler, in either the absence or presence ofABA, an observation that is consistent with higherTPK1 channel activity at comparable cytoplasmic Ca2+concentrations. A model that explains the results is presented.
Estimation of bounce resonant scattering by fast magnetosonic waves
Authors: Shprits Yuri Y.
Published: December 2015

In this study we present calculation of bounce resonant scattering of near equatorially mirroring electrons by fast magnetosonic waves. We first explore the sensitivity of the scattering rates and estimated time scales to a different number of resonances included into calculations. We then explore the sensitivity of calculated rates to the assumed wave normal angle. Our results show that at large radial distances bounce resonant scattering is capable of providing local isotropization of nearly equatorially mirroring electrons on the time scales as short as hours or even days depending on the assumed properties of waves. We also present analysis of the bounce frequencies of electrons and protons at various energies and radial distances and discuss the wave modes that are capable of bounce resonance with these particles. In particular, the importance of bounce resonance as a potential mechanism for the radiation belt remediation is discussed.
Experimental insights on the development of buoyant plumes injected into a porous media
Authors: Lyu Xiaoying , Woods Andrew W.
Published: December 2015

We describe a series of new laboratory experiments which examine the rise of a two‐dimensional buoyancy‐driven plume of freshwater through a porous layer initially saturated with aqueous saline solution. Measurements show that the plume head accounts for a constant fraction of about 0.7 of the buoyancy supplied at the source and that it grows as it rises through the porous layer. However, the morphology of the plume head becomes increasingly complex as the ratio of the injection speed to the buoyancy rise speed increases, with the fluid spreading laterally and developing localized buoyant fingers which intermingle with the ambient fluid. Behind the plume head, a tail of nearly constant width develops providing a pathway from the source to the plume head. These starting plume dynamics may be relevant for buoyancy‐driven contaminant dispersal and also for the convection which develops during CO2 sequestration as CO2 dissolves into aquifer water.
Lateral variability of sediment transport in the Delaware Estuary
Authors: McSweeney Jacqueline M. , Chant Robert J. , Sommerfield Christopher K.
Published: December 2015

Lateral processes contribute significantly to circulation and material transport in estuaries. The mechanisms controlling transport may vary spatially such that shallow and deep regions of an estuary contribute differently to the total transport. An observational study was conducted to explore the importance of lateral variability in sediment transport mechanisms in the Delaware Estuary. Seven moorings were deployed across the channel in the region of the estuarine turbidity maximum (ETM) zone from April to August 2011. Time series of along‐channel sediment transport reveal a consistent pattern of sediment export across the entire estuary during periods of high river discharge, followed by a transition to import within the channel and export on the flanks during low river flow. There is a persistent divergence of across‐channel sediment fluxes on the Delaware side, where sediment from the flank is transported toward both the channel and wetland coast. Decomposition of the fluxes highlight that across‐channel sediment transport is driven by mean lateral circulation, whereas along‐channel transport is driven primarily by mean advection, with tidal pumping contributing to about 30% of total transport. The spatial and temporal variability of mean advection and tidal pumping were generally complementary, with both contributing to the observed sediment transport pathways. Tidal pumping, linked to tidal asymmetries in stratification and sediment resuspension, was shown to drive both ebb‐driven export and flood‐driven import depending on the tidal variability of stratification. The spatiotemporal patterns of sediment transport highlight the three‐dimensional structure of the ETM and shed light on the variability of sediment transport mechanisms.
Impact of storm‐induced cooling of sea surface temperature on large turbulent eddies and vertical turbulent transport in the atmospheric boundary layer of Hurricane Isaac
Authors: Zhu Ping , Wang Yuting , Chen Shuyi S. , Curcic Milan , Gao Cen
Published: December 2015

Roll vortices in the atmospheric boundary layer (ABL) are important to oil operation and oil spill transport. This study investigates the impact of storm‐induced sea surface temperature (SST) cooling on the roll vortices generated by the convective and dynamic instability in the ABL of Hurricane Isaac (2012) and the roll induced transport using hindcasting large eddy simulations (LESs) configured from the multiply nested Weather Research & Forecasting model. Two experiments are performed: one forced by the Unified Wave INterface ‐ Coupled Model and the other with the SST replaced by the NCEP FNL analysis that does not include the storm‐induced SST cooling. The simulations show that the roll vortices are the prevalent eddy circulations in the ABL of Isaac. The storm‐induced SST cooling causes the ABL stability falls in a range that satisfies the empirical criterion of roll generation by dynamic instability, whereas the ABL stability without considering the storm‐induced SST cooling meets the criterion of roll generation by convective instability. The ABL roll is skewed and the increase of convective instability enhances the skewness. Large convective instability leads to large vertical transport of heat and moisture; whereas the dominant dynamic instability results in large turbulent kinetic energy but relatively weak heat and moisture transport. This study suggests that failure to consider roll vortices or incorrect initiation of dynamic and convective instability of rolls in simulations may substantially affect the transport of momentum, energy, and pollutants in the ABL and the dispersion/advection of oil spill fume at the ocean surface.
Influence of lateral subsurface flow and connectivity on soil water storage in land surface modeling
Authors: Kim Jonggun , Mohanty Binayak P.
Published: December 2015

Lateral surface/subsurface flow and their connectivity play a significant role in redistributing soil water, which has a direct effect on biological, chemical, and geomorphological processes in the root zone (~1 m). However, most of the land surface models neglect the horizontal exchanges of water at the grid or subgrid scales, focusing only on the vertical exchanges of water as one‐dimensional process. To develop better hydrologic understanding and modeling capability in complex landscapes, in this study we added connectivity‐based lateral subsurface flow algorithms in the Community Land Model. To demonstrate the impact of lateral flow and connectivity on soil water storage we designed three cases including the following: (1) with complex surface topography only, (2) with complex surface topography in upper soil layers and soil hydraulic properties with uniform anisotropy. and (3) with complex surface topography and soil hydraulic properties with spatially varying anisotropy. The connectivity was considered as an indicator for the variation of anisotropy in the case 3, which was created by wetness conditions or geophysical controls (e.g., soil type, normalized difference vegetation index, and topographic index). These cases were tested in two study sites (ER 5 field and ER‐sub watershed in Oklahoma) comparing to the field (gravimetric and remote sensing) soil moisture observations. Through the analysis of spatial patterns and temporal dynamics of soil moisture predictions from the study cases, surface topography was found to be a crucial control in demonstrating the variation of near surface soil moisture, but not significantly affected the subsurface flow in deeper soil layers. In addition, we observed the best performance in case 3 representing that the lateral connectivity can contribute effectively to quantify the anisotropy and redistributing soil water in the root zone. Hence, the approach with connectivity‐based lateral subsurface flow was able to better characterize the spatially distributed patterns of subsurface flow and improve the simulation of the hydrologic cycle.
A space‐based, high‐resolution view of notable changes in urban NOx pollution around the world (2005–2014)
Authors: Duncan Bryan N. , Lamsal Lok N. , Thompson Anne M. , Yoshida Yasuko , Lu Zifeng , Streets David G. , Hurwitz Margaret M. , Pickering Kenneth E.
Published: December 2015

Nitrogen oxides (NOx = NO + NO2) are produced during combustion processes and, thus may serve as a proxy for fossil fuel‐based energy usage and coemitted greenhouse gases and other pollutants. We use high‐resolution nitrogen dioxide (NO2) data from the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) to analyze changes in urban NO2 levels around the world from 2005 to 2014, finding complex heterogeneity in the changes. We discuss several potential factors that seem to determine these NOx changes. First, environmental regulations resulted in large decreases. The only large increases in the United States may be associated with three areas of intensive energy activity. Second, elevated NO2 levels were observed over many Asian, tropical, and subtropical cities that experienced rapid economic growth. Two of the largest increases occurred over recently expanded petrochemical complexes in Jamnagar (India) and Daesan (Korea). Third, pollution transport from China possibly influenced the Republic of Korea and Japan, diminishing the impact of local pollution controls. However, in China, there were large decreases over Beijing, Shanghai, and the Pearl River Delta, which were likely associated with local emission control efforts. Fourth, civil unrest and its effect on energy usage may have resulted in lower NO2 levels in Libya, Iraq, and Syria. Fifth, spatial heterogeneity within several megacities may reflect mixed efforts to cope with air quality degradation. We also show the potential of high‐resolution data for identifying NOx emission sources in regions with a complex mix of sources. Intensive monitoring of the world's tropical/subtropical megacities will remain a priority, as their populations and emissions of pollutants and greenhouse gases are expected to increase significantly.
Observations, inferences, and mechanisms of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation: A review
Authors: Buckley Martha W. , Marshall John
Published: December 2015

This is a review about the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), its mean structure, temporal variability, controlling mechanisms, and role in the coupled climate system. The AMOC plays a central role in climate through its heat and freshwater transports. Northward ocean heat transport achieved by the AMOC is responsible for the relative warmth of the Northern Hemisphere compared to the Southern Hemisphere and is thought to play a role in setting the mean position of the Intertropical Convergence Zone north of the equator. The AMOC is a key means by which heat anomalies are sequestered into the ocean's interior and thus modulates the trajectory of climate change. Fluctuations in the AMOC have been linked to low‐frequency variability of Atlantic sea surface temperatures with a host of implications for climate variability over surrounding landmasses. On intra‐annual timescales, variability in AMOC is large and primarily reflects the response to local wind forcing; meridional coherence of anomalies is limited to that of the wind field. On interannual to decadal timescales, AMOC changes are primarily geostrophic and related to buoyancy anomalies on the western boundary. A pacemaker region for decadal AMOC changes is located in a western “transition zone” along the boundary between the subtropical and subpolar gyres. Decadal AMOC anomalies are communicated meridionally from this region. AMOC observations, as well as the expanded ocean observational network provided by the Argo array and satellite altimetry, are inspiring efforts to develop decadal predictability systems using coupled atmosphere‐ocean models initialized by ocean data.
Thermal conductivity in porous media: Percolation‐based effective‐medium approximation
Authors: Ghanbarian Behzad , Daigle Hugh
Published: December 2015

Knowledge of porosity and saturation‐dependent thermal conductivities is necessary to investigate heat and water transfer in natural porous media such as rocks and soils. Thermal conductivity in a porous medium is affected by the complicated relationship between the topology and geometry of the pore space and the solid matrix. However, as water content increases from completely dry to fully saturated, the effect of the liquid phase on thermal conductivity may increase substantially. Although various methods have been proposed to model the porosity and saturation dependence of thermal conductivity, most are empirical or quasiphysical. In this study, we present a theoretical upscaling framework from percolation theory and the effective‐medium approximation, which is called percolation‐based effective‐medium approximation (P‐EMA). The proposed model predicts the thermal conductivity in porous media from endmember properties (e.g., air, solid matrix, and saturating fluid thermal conductivities), a scaling exponent, and a percolation threshold. In order to evaluate our porosity and saturation‐dependent models, we compare our theory with 193 porosity‐dependent thermal conductivity measurements and 25 saturation‐dependent thermal conductivity data sets and find excellent match. We also find values for the scaling exponent different than the universal value of 2, in insulator‐conductor systems, and also different from 0.76, the exponent in conductor‐superconductor mixtures, in three dimensions. These results indicate that the thermal conductivity under fully and partially saturated conditions conforms to nonuniversal behavior. This means the value of the scaling exponent changes from medium to medium and depends not only on structural and geometrical properties of the medium but also characteristics (e.g., wetting or nonwetting) of the saturating fluid.
Plant Cell Cycle
Authors: Francis Dennis
Published: December 2015

In plants, just like animals, proliferative cells divide mostly mitotically or sometimes meiotically, where chromosome number is either maintained or halved, respectively. This is achieved in the cell cycle, an ordered sequence of events that enables a healthy cell to divide. Cell‐cycle regulation is crucial for plant development due to the link between cell proliferation in meristems and differentiation or altered plane of division of descendants. Regulation of cell division is also a major way whereby plants are able to respond to an ever‐changing environment. While generic cyclin‐dependent kinase (CDK) regulation operates in the plant cell cycle, there are distinct differences from animals. Prominently these are very large cyclin families, the plant‐specific class of B‐type CDKs and the absence of phosphoregulation of CDKs by CDC25 and WEE1 except under checkpoint conditions. Cell division in meristems and gametophytes is regulated by feedback loops involving transcription factors, cell‐cycle activators and repressors.

Key Concepts

There are many more members in cell‐cycle regularity families in plants.

In an unperturbed cell cycle, phosphoregulation of higher plant CDKs does not require WEE1 or CDC25.

Plant cell‐cycle checkpoints lack CHK1 but engage WEE1 and KRPs.

MYB transcription factors promote and repress G2/M expressed genes.

Induction of DNA replication is similar in plants and animals but there are more E2F and RB‐related proteins in plants.

Negative feedback loops regulate organising centres in plant meristems.

Coordination between cell division and cell differentiation is spatially and temporally different in RAMs and SAMs.

Similar to cell growth, organ growth by cell proliferation can be subdivided into the proliferation rate, the direction of cell divisions determined by the orientation of the mitotic spindle and the duration of cell divisions.

ICK4/KRP6 and CDKA are major regulators of cell division in gametophytes.
Contextual Bias in the Analysis of Bitemarks
Authors: Zajac Rachel , Osborne Nikola K.P. , Kieser Jules A.
Published: December 2015

Despite the continued use of bitemarks as forensic evidence, there has been growing concern about the reliability of bitemark interpretation, and specifically about the role(s) that contextual information might play in this process. Here, we outline the basic processes involved in bitemark analysis, highlight possible sources of ambiguity and error, discuss the potential for contextual bias, and suggest ways to manage this issue. We also briefly touch on the potential for contextual bias in other forensic contexts that involve the analysis of dentition.
Sentencing: Demographic Factors in
Authors: Kehn Andre , Schweitzer Kimberly , Nunez Narina L.
Published: December 2015

Demographic characteristics of defendants are considered extralegal factors because they are not characteristics of the crime and should not influence jurors' verdicts or sentencing decisions. However, ample evidence exists that jurors do consider extralegal factors when rendering verdicts and deciding on sentencing judgments for a defendant. This article reviews the literature on demographic characteristics of the defendant and how these factors influence jurors' judgments. Particularly, the impacts of race, age, socioeconomic status, and gender on jurors sentencing decisions are reviewed. This article addresses how these demographic characteristics can create biases that will influence jurors' decisions in a case. Relevant theoretical explanations are discussed.
Premenstrual Syndrome
Authors: Kaye Neil S. , Hatters‐Friedman Susan , Reed Thomas , Easteal Patricia
Published: December 2015

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS), a remarkably common experience in premenopausal women, is neither abnormal nor pathological. A small subset of women experience significant impairment and disability during their premenstrual phase, and meet the criteria for the diagnosis of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). While considered an area of interest and research, and experienced by 3–5% of women, PMDD is not considered to be a serious mental illness. Nonetheless, since the mid‐1800s, courts around the world have countenanced arguments based on the notion that a woman's reproductive organs exerted a profound influence over her mind and behavior. PMS has been raised as a basis for a finding of diminished capacity. Many concerns exist over its use as a defense, which are highlighted in the chapter.
Parental Alienation
Authors: Bernet William
Published: December 2015

This article summarizes parental alienation, a child's rejection of an appropriate parent in the context of a high‐conflict divorce. Mental health professionals are often asked to evaluate children of separated or divorced parents for the presence of parental alienation. This article explains the differential diagnosis of contact refusal and the causes of parental alienation. Custody recommendations and treatment strategies are discussed to aid custody evaluators, judges, and lawyers, and guide families to address this difficult problem that can destroy families and hurt children.
Carbon‐14 Bomb Pulse Dating
Authors: Buchholz Bruce A.
Published: December 2015

Atmospheric testing of nuclear weapons during the 1950s and early 1960s doubled the concentration of carbon‐14 in the atmosphere and created a pulse that labeled everything alive since 1955 as carbon moved up the food chain. The variation in carbon‐14 concentration in time is well‐documented and can be used to chronologically date all biological materials since the mid‐1950s.