bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DMAV in Drinking Water Activated NF‐κB Signal Pathway and Increased TGF‐β and IL‐1β Expressions in Bladder Epithelial Cells of Rats
Authors: Cao Siqi , Liu Shengnan , Wang Fei , Liu Jieyu , Li Mengdan , Wang Chen , Xi Shuhua
Published: November 2015

Dimethylarsinic acid (DMAV) is the main product of arsenic methylation metabolism in vivo and is rat bladder carcinogen and tumor promoting agent. In this study, we measured the expressions of mRNA and proteins of NF‐κB pathway members, IKKα, IKKβ, p65, and p50 in rat bladder epithelium by qRT‐PCR and immunohistochemical analysis after rats received drinking water containing 100 and 200 ppm DMAV for 10 weeks. Transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) immunoexpression in rat bladder epithelium and urine level of IL‐1β also were determined. We found that DMAV dramatically increased the mRNA levels of NF‐κB p50 and IKKα in the bladder epithelium of rats compared to the control group. Immunohistochemical examinations showed that DMAV increased immunoreactivities of IKKα, IKKβ, and phospho‐NF‐κB p50 in the cytoplasm and phospho‐NF‐κB p50 and p65 in nucleus of rat urothelial cells. In addition, DMAV treated rats exhibited significantly increased inflammatory factor TGF‐β immunoreactivity in bladder epithelium and IL‐1β secretion in urine. These data suggest that DMAV could activate NF‐κB signal pathway and increase TGF‐β and IL‐1β expressions in bladder epithelial cells of rats.
Symptomatology and Coping Resources Predict Self-Care Behaviors in Middle to Older Age Patients with Heart Failure
Authors: Graven Lucinda J. , Grant Joan S. , Gordon Glenna
Published: November 2015

Background.Symptoms of heart failure (HF) and coping resources, such as social support and social problem-solving, may influence self-care behaviors. Research regarding the influence of HF symptomatology characteristics and components of social support and social problem-solving on self-care is limited.Objective.To identify predictors of HF self-care behaviors using characteristics of HF symptomatology, components of social support and social problem-solving, and demographic and clinical factors.Methods.Using a cross-sectional, correlational predictive design, a convenience sample (N=201) of outpatients with HF answered self-report surveys. Multiple linear regression with stepwise variable selection was conducted.Results.Six predictors of HF self-care were identified: race, symptom frequency, symptom-related interference with enjoyment of life, New York Heart Association Class HF, rational problem-solving style, and social network (β=34.265,R2=0.19,P=0.001).Conclusions.Assessing the influence of race on self-care behaviors in middle to older age patients with HF is important. Clinical assessment that focuses on symptom frequency, symptom-related interference with enjoyment of life, and HF Class might also impact self-care behaviors in this population. Rational problem-solving skills used and evaluation of the size of and satisfaction with one’s social network may be appropriate when assessing self-care.
White Matter Changes in Two Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy Pedigrees: 12-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Jančić Jasna , Dejanović Ivana , Radovanović Saša , Ostojić Jelena , Kozić Duško , Đurić-Jovičić Milica , Samardžić Janko , Ćetković Mila , Kostić Vladimir
Published: November 2015

We are presenting two Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) pedigrees with abnormal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (H-MRS) findings but without neurological manifestation associated with LHON. The study included 14 LHON patients and 41 asymptomatic family members from 12 genealogically unrelated families. MRI showed white matter involvement and H-MRS exhibited metabolic anomalies within 12 LHON families. Main outcome measures were abnormal MRI and H-MRS findings in two pedigrees. MRI of the proband of the first pedigree showed a single demyelinating lesion in the right cerebellar hemisphere, while the proband of the second family displayed multiple supratentorial and infratentorial lesions, compatible with the demyelinating process, and both the absolute choline (Cho) concentration and Cho/creatinine ratio were increased. MRI and H-MRS profiles of both affected and unaffected mitochondrial DNA mutation carriers suggest more widespread central nervous involvement in LHON. Although even after 12 years our patients did not develop neurological symptoms, MRI could still be used to detect possible changes during the disease progression.
Current and Potential Therapeutic Strategies for Hemodynamic Cardiorenal Syndrome
Authors: Obi Yoshitsugu , Kim Taehee , Kovesdy Csaba P. , Amin Alpesh N. , Kalantar-Zadeh Kamyar
Published: November 2015

Background: Cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) encompasses conditions in which cardiac and renal disorders co-exist and are pathophysiologically related. The newest classification of CRS into seven etiologically and clinically distinct types for direct patient management purposes includes hemodynamic, uremic, vascular, neurohumoral, anemia- and/or iron metabolism-related, mineral metabolism-related and protein-energy wasting-related CRS. This classification also emphasizes the pathophysiologic pathways. The leading CRS category remains hemodynamic CRS, which is the most commonly encountered type in patient care settings and in which acute or chronic heart failure leads to renal impairment. Summary: This review focuses on selected therapeutic strategies for the clinical management of hemodynamic CRS. This is often characterized by an exceptionally high ratio of serum urea to creatinine concentrations. Loop diuretics, positive inotropic agents including dopamine and dobutamine, vasopressin antagonists including vasopressin receptor antagonists such as tolvaptan, nesiritide and angiotensin-neprilysin inhibitors are among the pharmacologic agents used. Additional therapies include ultrafiltration (UF) via hemofiltration or dialysis. The beneficial versus unfavorable effects of these therapies on cardiac decongestion versus renal blood flow may act in opposite directions. Some of the most interesting options for the outpatient setting that deserve revisiting include portable continuous dobutamine infusion, peritoneal dialysis and outpatient UF via hemodialysis or hemofiltration. Key Messages: The new clinically oriented CRS classification system is helpful in identifying therapeutic targets and offers a systematic approach to an optimal management algorithm with better understanding of etiologies. Most interventions including UF have not shown a favorable impact on outcomes. Outpatient portable dobutamine infusion is underutilized and not well studied. Revisiting traditional and novel strategies for outpatient management of CRS warrants clinical trials.
Serum levels of 25(OH)D are not associated with venous thromboembolism in the elderly population
Authors: Delluc Aurélien , Moineau Marie-Pierre , Tromeur Cécile , Gouillou Maelenn , Lacut Karine , Carré Jean-Luc , Gentric Armelle , Gal Grégoire Le , Andro Marion
Published: November 2015

The prevalence of both vitamin D deficiency and venous thromboembolism (VTE) is important in the elderly. Previous studies have provided evidence for a possible association between vitamin D status and the risk of VTE. Thus, we aimed to investigate the association between vitamin D levels and VTE in the population aged 75 and over included in the EDITH case-control study. The association between vitamin D status and VTE was analysed. We also analysed the monthly and seasonal variations of VTE and vitamin D. Between May 2000 and December 2009, 340 elderly patients (mean age 81.5 years, 32 % men) with unprovoked VTE and their controls were included. The univariate and multivariate analysis found no significant association between serum levels of vitamin D and the risk of unprovoked VTE. In the unadjusted analysis, a higher BMI was statistically associated with an increased risk of VTE (OR 1.09; 95 % CI 1.05–1.13) whereas a better walking capacity and living at home were associated with a decreased rate of VTE: OR 0.57; 95 % CI 0.36–0.90 and 0.40; 95 % CI 0.25–0.66, respectively. Although not significant, more VTE events occurred during winter (p=0.09). No seasonal variations of vitamin D levels were found (p=0.11). In conclusion, in contrast with previous reports our findings suggest that vitamin D is not associated with VTE in the elderly population.
Physical Activity and Risk of Coronary Heart Disease and Stroke in Older Adults
Authors: Soares-Miranda Luisa , Siscovick David S. , Psaty Bruce M. , Longstreth W. T. , Mozaffarian Dariush
Published: November 2015

Background—

Although guidelines suggest that older adults engage in regular physical activity (PA) to reduce cardiovascular disease (CVD), surprisingly few studies have evaluated this relationship, especially in those >75 years. In addition, with advancing age the ability to perform some types of PA might decrease, making light-moderate exercise such as walking especially important to meet recommendations.

Methods and Results—

Prospective cohort analysis among 4207 US men and women of a mean age of 73 years (standard deviation=6) who were free of CVD at baseline in the Cardiovascular Health Study were followed from 1989 to 1999. PA was assessed and cumulatively updated over time to minimize misclassification and assess the long-term effects of habitual activity. Walking (pace, blocks, combined walking score) was updated annually from baseline through 1999. Leisure-time activity and exercise intensity were updated at baseline, 1992, and 1996. Incident CVD (fatal or nonfatal myocardial infarction, coronary death, or stroke) was adjudicated using medical records. During 41 995 person-years of follow-up, 1182 CVD events occurred. After multivariable adjustment, greater PA was inversely associated with coronary heart disease, stroke (especially ischemic stroke), and total CVD, even in those ≥75 years. Walking pace, distance, and overall walking score, leisure-time activity, and exercise intensity were each associated with lower risk. For example, in comparison with a walking pace <2 mph, those that habitually walked at a pace >3 mph had a lower risk of coronary heart disease (0.50; confidence interval, 0.38–0.67), stroke (0.47; confidence interval, 033–0.66), and CVD (0.50; confidence interval, 0.40–0.62).

Conclusions—

These data provide empirical evidence supporting PA recommendations, in particular, walking, to reduce the incidence of CVD among older adults.
Epitype designation for the name Biscutella didyma L. (Brassicaceae)
Authors: Vicente Alicia , Alonso Mª Angeles , Crespo Manuel B.
Published: November 2015

The Linnaean name Biscutella didyma was lectotypified in 1964 by a specimen consisting of an incomplete fruiting stem of a plant lacking well developed leaves. This species name, together with its lectotype, was proposed as conserved type for the genus. The taxonomic identity of the lectotype is here shown to be demonstrably ambiguous in the context of B. sect. Biscutella (B. ser. Lyratae), and might be related to either B. didyma var. didyma or B. didyma var. ciliata (B. didyma subsp. apula). Therefore, in the case that infraspecific taxa are accepted within B. didyma, an epitype is designated to warrant further application of the latter name in the sense it is been used in the last decades.
Women on Corporate Boards
Authors: Grosvold Johanne , Rayton Bruce , Brammer Stephen
Published: November 2015

How do a country’s basic institutions enable or hinder women’s rise to the boards of public companies? The study evaluates this question with reference to the five basic institutions that research suggests are common across all countries: family, education, economy, government, and religion. The study draws on a sample, which consists of 23 countries, and the study is framed in neo-institutional theory. In analyzing the role of these institutions, the article seeks to understand better the relationships between specific institutions and the share of board seats held by women. The results suggest that four of the five basic institutions are related to the share of board seats women hold. Family, education, economy, and government influence women’s rise to the board; however, religion does not influence women’s rise to the corporate board of directors.
Factors Affecting Booster Seat Use
Authors: Aita-Levy Jerussa , Henderson Lauren
Published: November 2015

Objective. To identify general awareness of booster seats as well as reasons for use and nonuse in an urban pediatric emergency room. Methods. A total of 100 questionnaires were completed consisting of 24 questions each. Questions included knowledge of booster seat guidelines, source of knowledge, awareness of risks, and confidence in booster seats. Afterward, participants were provided an educational handout. Results. Majority of parents reported currently using or having used a booster seat. The most popular reason was to protect from injury (78%), and reason for nonuse was size (44%). Majority of parents agreed that motor vehicle crashes were the leading cause of death in children. However, 56% of parents prematurely transitioned child out of a booster seat. Only 20% reported learning about booster seats from their pediatrician. Conclusion. Parents continue to transition their children prematurely from booster seats. Current state laws need revision as well as further education using simplified illustrated guidelines.
Can Geographic Bridging Social Capital Improve the Health of People Who Live in Deprived Urban Neighborhoods?
Authors: Kim Chang-O , Cho Byong-Hee
Published: November 2015

The growing number of people living in deprived urban neighborhoods, which often have unhealthy environments, is of growing concern to inequality researchers. Social capital could be a resource to help such communities get ahead. In this study, we examined the differential effects of bonding and bridging social capital on self-rated health using two operational definitions, which we call personal and geographic social capital. Bonding and bridging social capital were operationally distinguished as respondents’ perceived similarity to other members of a group with respect to personal characteristics (personal social capital) or as structural similarity with respect to geographical location (geographic social capital). The results showed that although both bonding and bridging social capital as defined by person-based criteria were associated with increased odds of self-rated health compared to those who reported zero participation, when defined by place-based criteria, only bridging social capital was associated with increased odds of self-rated health; no clear association was found between health and belonging to groups within the neighborhood, so-called geographic bonding social capital. The present study suggests that geographic bridging social capital can function as linking social capital that enables an upward approach depending on the political and economic contexts of urbanization.
Effects of extractives removal on the performance of clear varnish coatings on boards
Authors: Ghofrani Mohammad , Mirkhandouzi Fatemeh Zahra , Ashori Alireza
Published: November 2015

In this work, the effects of extractives removal on the performance of used varnishes were studied. The experimental samples were prepared using defect-free alder ( Subcordate alnus) and ironwood ( Zelkova carpinifolia) with moisture content of 12% and were coated with polyester and two-part polyurethane (urethane alkyd) varnishes. Removal of extractive materials followed Tappi Test Methods using hot water and ethanol. Variable parameters were based on the solvent type (extraction method), wood species, and varnish type. Other parameters such as moisture content, sanding process, and dimensions were kept constant. Pull-off adhesion and dynamic absorption tests were used to assess adhesion and performance of the two clear varnish coatings. Sanding process was employed prior to coating, which helped prepare surfaces virtually free of damage. In general, the extractive-free samples had better adhesion strength and wettability compared with the untreated (control) ones. Based on the results of this study, it can be pointed out that all the variable parameters, including the type of wood, varnish, and solvent, had significant effect on the adhesion of varnishes, applied on the wood surface. The difference in wettability between extracted and unextracted samples is due to blocking of the free hydroxyl groups by extractive materials. In addition, it was found that the removal of extractives had the effect of increasing the surface wettability of both species, an important consideration for the varnish coating. The highest adhesion was obtained from polyurethane varnish, applied on ironwood specimens. It seems that the diffuse-porous anatomical structure of ironwood along with its high density of 0.79 g/cm3 could be responsible for its higher adhesion strength than alder species.
Alternative solutions for inhibiting Legionella in domestic hot water systems based on low-temperature district heating
Authors: Yang Xiaochen , Li Hongwei , Svendsen Svend
Published: November 2015

District heating is a cost-effective way of providing heat to high heat density areas. Low-temperature district heating (LTDH) is a promising way to make district heating more energy-efficient and adaptable to well-insulated buildings with low heating demand in the future. However, one concern is the multiplication of Legionella due to insufficient temperature elevation with low-temperature supply. The aim of this study was to find optimal solutions to this dilemma for specific situations. The solutions were of two types: alternative system designs and various methods of sterilization. The alternative design approach can eliminate the risk factors of Legionella by local temperature boosting and restricting system volume. Decentralized substations, micro heat pumps, electric heating elements and electric heat tracing are all investigated as alternative designs. With regard to sterilization methods, thermal treatment, ionization, chlorine, chlorine dioxide, ultraviolet light, photocatalysis and filtration are discussed as the most frequently used methods in hot water systems. The characteristics, efficacy and operation methods of LTDH using the solutions investigated are documented and compared. Finally, recommendations are given for their use in practice.

Practical application: The methods for inhibiting Legionella should fit into applicable situations according to their characteristics. This study aims to recommend optimum solutions for inhibiting Legionella in LTDH scenarios, and includes a comprehensive overview of their efficiency, installation, operation and costs, so as to give adequate information for selecting appropriate solutions. In addition to sterilization methods, alternative system design implemented with new technologies can also help prevent Legionella in hot water systems. They have the additional benefit of reducing the heat loss of the hot water system. The alternative design solutions both enrich our options for water sanitation and improve the energy efficiency of our energy systems.
What goes around comes around: The mediation of corporate social responsibility in the relationship between transformational leadership and employee engagement
Authors: Besieux Tijs , Baillien Elfi , Verbeke Alain Laurent , Euwema Martin Claes
Published: November 2015

Organization studies have investigated transformational leadership and employee engagement as key variables in the field. Recent calls in the literature propose further investigation of the link between leadership and engagement, through different levels within the organization. Hence, the current study examines the leadership–engagement relationship in more depth and introduces perceived corporate social responsibility as an organizational level mediator. Hypotheses were tested amongst employees in a European bank ( N = 5313) and were supported. This study contributes both to theory and practice by: (a) expanding the scope of transformational leadership effectiveness, specifically as a facilitator for employee engagement, and (b) demonstrating the contribution of perceived corporate social responsibility as a mediator in the relationship between transformational leadership and employee engagement.
The separate and combined effects of monoamine oxidase A inhibition and nicotine on resting state EEG
Authors: Smith Dylan M , Fisher Derek , Blier Pierre , Ilivitsky Vadim , Knott Verner
Published: November 2015

While nicotine is often associated with the neuropsychological effects of tobacco smoke, the robust monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibition observed in chronic smokers is also likely to play a role. Electroencephalographically-indexed alterations in baseline neural oscillations by nicotine have previously been reported in both smokers and non-smokers, however, little is known about the effects of MAO inhibition in combination with nicotine on resting state EEG. In a sample of 24 healthy non-smoking males, the effects of 6 mg nicotine gum, as well as MAO-A inhibition via 75 mg moclobemide, were investigated in separate and combined conditions over four separate test sessions. Drug effects were observed in the alpha2, beta2, and theta band frequencies. Nicotine increased alpha2 power, and moclobemide decreased beta2 power. Theta power was decreased most robustly by the combination of both drugs. Therefore, this study demonstrated that the nicotinic and MAO inhibiting properties of tobacco may differentially influence fast-wave oscillations (alpha2 and beta2), while acting in synergy to influence theta oscillations.
Nuclear expression and clinical significance of phosphohistidine phosphatase 1 in clear-cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Shen Hongliang , Yang Peiqian , Liu Qingjun , Tian Ye
Published: November 2015

Objective

To explore expression and clinical relevance of phosphohistidine phosphatase 1 ( PHPT1) in clear-cell renal cell carcinoma.

Methods

Patients with clear-cell renal cell carcinoma who underwent radical or nephron-sparing nephrectomy were enrolled. Correlations between PHPT1 expression and demographic and clinical characteristics were analysed prospectively.

Results

In total, 122 patients (78 male/44 female) were included. In normal kidney tissue, PHPT1 expression was observed only in the proximal tubule. High PHPT1 expression levels were associated with larger tumour size, higher Fuhrman nuclear grade and advanced pathological tumour–node–metastasis (pTNM) stage compared with low PHPT1 expression levels. Patients with low PHPT1 expression showed better overall survival and progression-free survival compared with those with high PHPT1 expression. In addition, multivariate analysis showed that nuclear grade and pTNM stage were independent predictors of progression-free survival and overall survival in patients with clear-cell renal cell carcinoma. PHPT1 expression was also an independent predictor of overall survival but not progression-free survival.

Conclusions

PHPT1 was expressed in the epithelium of proximal tubuli and nuclei of clear-cell renal cell carcinoma tissue samples. High levels of 14 kDa phosphohistidine phosphatase protein were negatively associated with overall survival and progression-free survival in patients with clear-cell renal cell carcinoma.
Donor Reaction to Salient Disclosures of Nonprofit Executive Pay
Authors: Galle Brian , Walker David I.
Published: November 2015

We evaluate the effect of highly salient disclosure of private college and university president compensation on subsequent donations. Using a differences-in-discontinuities approach to compare institutions that are highlighted in the Chronicle of Higher Education’s annual “top 10” list of most-highly compensated presidents against similar others, we find that appearing on a top 10 list is associated with reduced average donations of up to US$5.0 million in the first full fiscal year following disclosure, despite greater fund-raising by “top 10” schools. We also find some evidence that top 10 appearances are correlated with slower compensation growth and rising enrollment in subsequent years. We interpret these results as consistent with the hypothesis that donors care about compensation but are typically inattentive to pay levels. We discuss the implications of these findings for the regulation of nonprofits and for our broader understanding of the pay-setting process at for-profit as well as nonprofit organizations.
Fluctuation evaluation and identification model for small-batch multistage machining processes of complex aircraft parts
Authors: Wang Yan , Jiang Pingyu
Published: November 2015

The key to improve the machining quality of workpiece is to decrease the process fluctuation, which requires identifying the fluctuation sources first. For small-batch multistage machining processes of complex aircraft parts, how to identify the fluctuation sources efficiently has become a difficult issue due to the limited shop-floor data and the complicated interactive effects among different stages. Aiming at this issue, a fluctuation evaluation and identification model for small-batch multistage machining process is proposed based on the sensitivity analysis theory. In order to improve the data utilization, an analytical structure of the fluctuation evaluation and identification model for small-batch multistage machining process is presented, which comprises four levels, namely, part level, multistage level, single-stage level and quality feature level. Corresponding to the four levels in the analytical structure, four fluctuation analysis indices are proposed to quantitatively evaluate the fluctuation level of different parts and identify the weak stages and elements that result in the abnormal fluctuation in the process flow. A five-stage deep-hole machining process of aircraft landing gear is used as a case to verify the proposed model.
Identity lost? The personal impact of brand journalism
Authors: Holton Avery E , Molyneux Logan
Published: November 2015

Researchers have explored the role of organizational and personal branding in journalism, paying particular attention to digital media and social network sites. While these studies have observed a rise in the incorporation of branding practices among journalists, they have largely avoided questions about the implications such shifts in practice may have on the personal identities of journalists. This study addresses that gap, drawing on interviews with 41 reporters and editors from US newspapers. The findings suggest that as reporters incorporate branding into their routines, they may feel as though they are sacrificing the ability to simultaneously maintain a personal identity online. For their part, editors seem to sympathize with journalists’ loss of personal identity but defer to organizational policies.
Politics ex cathedra: Religious authority and the Pope in modern international relations
Authors: Genovese Federica
Published: November 2015

Political scientists are increasingly interested in the impact of religious authority on modern politics. However, little attention has been paid to the conditions under which religious leaders are more likely to speak politically. Tackling this question, this article argues that religious authorities should issue political statements at the outbreak of international crises, when secular institutions are unwilling or incapable of taking clear political positions. I test this argument focusing on the Roman Vatican through a quantitative text analysis of the papal encyclicals from 1958 until today. Latent topic models indicate that political themes systematically emerge in the papal documents and that the timing of the more political encyclicals correlate with years in which international crises break out. The findings have implications for the understanding of the modern relations between state and church and the political mobilization of religion today.
Varying responses of PML-RARA with different genetic mutations to arsenic trioxide
Authors: Liu Jiangying , Zhu Hong-Hu , Jiang Hao , Jiang Qian , Huang Xiao-Jun
Published: November 2015

Key Points

Different point mutations in the PML moiety of PML-RARA mediate varying responses to arsenic treatment. Increasing the concentration of arsenic trioxide or combining it with ATRA may overcome the arsenic resistance driven by the acquired point mutations.
A Pharmacology-Based Enrichment Program for Undergraduates Promotes Interest in Science
Authors: Godin Elizabeth A. , Wormington Stephanie V. , Perez Tony , Barger Michael M. , Snyder Kate E. , Richman Laura Smart , Schwartz-Bloom Rochelle , Linnenbrink-Garcia Lisa
Published: November 2015

There is a strong need to increase the number of undergraduate students who pursue careers in science to provide the “fuel” that will power a science and technology–driven U.S. economy. Prior research suggests that both evidence-based teaching methods and early undergraduate research experiences may help to increase retention rates in the sciences. In this study, we examined the effect of a program that included 1) a Summer enrichment 2-wk minicourse and 2) an authentic Fall research course, both of which were designed specifically to support students' science motivation. Undergraduates who participated in the pharmacology-based enrichment program significantly improved their knowledge of basic biology and chemistry concepts; reported high levels of science motivation; and were likely to major in a biological, chemical, or biomedical field. Additionally, program participants who decided to major in biology or chemistry were significantly more likely to choose a pharmacology concentration than those majoring in biology or chemistry who did not participate in the enrichment program. Thus, by supporting students' science motivation, we can increase the number of students who are interested in science and science careers.
Editorial
Authors: Soares Adriana Benevides , Tsallis Alexandra Cleopatre , Mendes Deise Maria Fernandes , Valentim Renata Patrícia Forain de , Barros Rita Maria Manso de
Published: November 2015

Adriana Benevides Soares, Alexandra Cleopatre Tsallis, Deise Maria Fernandes Mendes, Renata Patrícia Forain de Valentim, Rita Maria Manso de Barros
Excelência criativa em mulheres brasileiras
Authors: Mundim Maria Célia Bruno , Wechsler Solange Muglia
Published: November 2015

Considerando o aumento de mulheres em posição de destaque nos diversos setores da sociedade, esta pesquisa buscou investigar os estilos de pensar e criar, e verificar as diferenças nos fatores ambientais e psicológicos que influenciam a excelência criativa de mulheres brasileiras em diferentes áreas. A amostra foi composta por 20 mulheres (11 reconhecidas por excelência criativa por meio de premiações e 9 não reconhecidas por excelência criativa e sem premiações). Os instrumentos foram um Roteiro de Entrevista, a Escala de Estilos de Pensar e Criar e um Roteiro de Análise de Produção Criativa. O teste Mann-Whitney foi utilizado para comparar as diferenças existentes entre as mulheres com excelência criativa e as não criativas.Quanto às entrevistas, foi feita uma análise de conteúdo e utilizado o Qui-quadrado para as categorias de respostas. Houve diferenças significativas entre os dois grupos de mulheres nos conteúdos das entrevistas. Conclui-se sobre a importância de conhecer os fatores que auxiliam o alcance da excelência.
Discursos dos psicólogos no contexto da comissão de orientação e ética
Authors: Ayres Lygia Santa Maria , Carvalho Cíntia De Sousa , Barreira Mariana Chaves Botelho
Published: November 2015

Buscamos, neste artigo, analisar os discursos escritos, e encaminhados por psicólogos, denunciados à Comissão de Orientação e Ética em denúncias e/ou processos éticos, tramitados no Conselho Regional de Psicologia do Rio de Janeiro. Nosso objetivo, ao problematizar práticas/discursos veiculados pelos psicólogos denunciados em seu conselho de classe, consiste em colocar em análise alguns argumentos, lógicas e premissas que atravessam os discursos desses profissionais num momento em que sua atuação/intervenção é questionada. Pautadas nas contribuições de Foucault, Bakhtin, Guattari e outros teóricos, as autoras em suas indagações transpõem o universo do psicólogo denunciado levantando discursos/práticas para além dos argumentos desses profissionais, colocando em cena a própria constituição da comissão de orientação e ética. Esse trabalho, de modo algum, pretende expor, rechaçar ou mesmo intimidar colegas de profissão, mas contribuir por meio de reflexões para a construção de uma psicologia mais comprometida com a população, ao tentar desconstruir conceitos e pilares que ainda sustentam uma psicologia dita neutra, objetiva e científica e, por efeito, psicólogos descontextualizados.
Students' understanding of Holocaust is ‘deeply troubling’
Authors: Henshaw Pete
Published: November 2015

Many young people do not know what anti-semitism means and hold misconceptions about the Holocaust, largest ever study finds
A tool for assessing social climate in university classrooms
Authors: Rostan Sánchez Carles , Cañabate Ortiz Dolors , González Carrasco Mònica , Albertín Carbo Pilar , Pérez Burriel Marc
Published: November 2015

Introduction. Despite academic climate being a key aspect of teaching quality in academic institutions, few studies conducted in the university context have analyzed this construct systematically.Method. Given the absence of specific tools to apply to university, we propose the construction of a tool for assessing college students’ perceptions of their class climate based on an adapted questionnaire regarding social climate in the classroom designed for secondary schools.Results. The exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses conducted on a sample of 330 college students from different disciplines and years resulted in a 22-item questionnaire with one second-order factor on academic climate separable into three first-order factors (the professor’s performance and relationship with the students, affective atmosphere -sense of belonging- and normative behavior, and relationships between students).Discussion and Conclusion. The Classroom Social Climate Scale for Universities (CSCS-U) has adequate psychometric properties and is a good starting point from which to evaluate classroom climate in the university context.
Selective Attention: a Comparative Study on Argentine Students from Different Socioeconomic Contexts
Authors: Ison Mirta S. , Greco Carolina , Korzeniowski Celina , Morelato Gabriela
Published: November 2015

Introduction. Attentional Efficiency (AE) is defined as the accuracy with which a child discriminates, from a group of similar stimuli, those which are identical to a model, within a certain time period. Various factors may be associated with a higher or lower AE, among which is socioeconomic context. The goals of this study were: 1) To describe argentine students` attentional efficiency according to the type of school (private-public), according to the students` age and gender and acoording to the educational and occupational level of the students` mothers; 2) To compare attentional efficiency according to the type of school (privatepublic), students`age and gender and educational and occupational level of their mothers.Method. A comparative cross-sectional study was used. Two groups of 10-to-13-year-old students were formed: 74 from public schools (Mean 11.26; S.D. 0.93; 53% boys and 47% girls) and 67 students (Mean 11.49; S.D. 1.05; 54% boys and 46% girls) from a private schools. Type of school is categorized by Mendoza general Board of Education. Private schools are located in urban areas. Public schools are situated in peripheral areas in contexts of social vulnerability. Social vulnerability is a condition of social risk that hinders, either immediately or in the long term, the satisfaction of welfare needs, both in terms of survival and quality of life. In this kind of contexts there are lower levels of education in the families, poor working conditions and/or unemployment, families dysfunction and poor mother and child health services. All of these situations lead to unequal social conditions and decreasing opportunities for children's development.There are 10 public schools in peripheral areas and 25 private schools in urban areas at Guaymallen, Mendoza. The participants were from two schools, one from public and other from private school.Results. The results revealed lower attentional efficiency in school children attending public schools than in those attending a private schools. No statistically-significant differences were observed in attentional efficiency in relation to the gender or age of the participating children. The students whose mothers had attained a university level of education showed a significantly higher attentional performance, in contrast with those students whose mothers had only attended primary school. In adittion, the students whose mothers were employed showed a significantly higher attentional performance in constrast with those children whose mothers were unemployed. Nervertheless, no statistically-significant differences were observed in attentional efficiency in relation to occupational level of qualification of students' mothers.Conclusion: This study concurs with research showing the influence of socioeconomic context on children's attentional performance, contributing evidence on the need to adjust educational practices and cognitive interventions to boost children's academic achievements.
Relevance of videogames in the learning and development of young children
Authors: Zhao Zhuxuan , Linaza José L.
Published: November 2015

Introduction. The study was carried out with children of 2nd, 4th and 6th grades of elementary school in order to explore what and how will children learn from a completely new videogame.Method. We organized children from 2nd, 4th and 6th grades of elemental school , giving them chance to play a freshly released videogame by that time. We formed small groups of 4 players with 2 boys and 2 girls in each group. We offered them a console and only 2 controllers. With this design, we would like to observe and analyze the differences between these players according to their age and gender. This process of learning and playing videogames lasted for 11 weeks.Result. The results have shown the capacity of learning without adult’s intervention among all the players in this study. It also shows the coordination of cooperation of each group in order to learn to play the video game. We’d like to highlight their autonomy in learning and their ability to solve different conflicts happened during the process in their group, from the beginning and during the play time, their way of regulate each player’s play time and also their capacity of create meanings in the game’s virtual world, characters or concrete actions.Discussion. Complex and important capacities were displayed during the learnig process by the children: leadership, caring for other players, control of the process, etc.
Coal-Mine Liquidation as a Strategic Managerial Decision: a Decision-Making Model Based on the Options Approach / Likwidacja Kopalni Jako Strategiczna Decyzja Menedżerska: Model Decyzyjny Z Wykorzystaniem Podejścia Opcyjnego
Authors: Jewartowski Tomasz , Mizerka Jacek , Mróz Cezary
Published: November 2015

The aim of this paper is to determine the optimal time of coal mine liquidation given the necessity of bearing the costs of post-mining reclamation. In order to consider the volatility of parameters important for making a liquidation decision and the entrepreneur’s flexibility in the decision-making process, the real options approach was applied. Mine liquidation, which is inextricably linked to post-mining reclamation, is examined as an American put option on the market value of continuing the mine’s operation which plays the role of the underlying asset. In turn, the role of the exercise price is played by expenditures for mine liquidation and post-mining reclamation, which can be avoided if the decision to close the mine is taken before all the deposits are exhausted. The liquidation option is exercised when the value of liquidation and reclamation cost savings significantly exceeds the continuation value. Mine liquidation was additionally made conditional on the value of funds accumulated to finance post-mining reclamation.
Interpolation and Sampling Errors of the Ash and Sulphur Contents in Selected Polish Bituminous Coal Deposit (Upper Silesian Coal Basin – USCB) / Błędy Interpolacji I Opróbowania Zawartości Popiołu I Siarki W Wytypowanych Polskich Złożach Węgla Kamiennego (Górnośląskie Zagłębie Węglowe)
Authors: Mucha Jacek , Wasilewska-Błaszczyk Monika
Published: November 2015

The basic sources of information on the parameters characterizing the quality of coal (i.e. its ash and sulphur contents) in the deposits of The Upper Silesian Coal Basin (Poland) are drill core sampling (the first stage of exploration) and channel sampling in mine workings (the second stage of exploration). Boreholes are irregularly spaced but provide relatively uniform coverage over an entire deposit area. Channel samples are taken regularly in mine workings, but only in the developed parts of the deposit.

The present study considers selected seams of two mines. The methodology used is based on detailed geostatistical analysis, point kriging procedure and P. Gy’s theory of sampling. Its purpose is:

• defining and comparing geostatistical models for variability of the ash and sulphur contents for data originating from boreholes and mine workings,

• predicting by means of point kriging the values of the parameters and errors of interpolation using data from boreholes at grid points where underground mine workings were later channel-sampled,

• assessing the accuracy of interpolation by comparison of predicted values of parameters with real values (found by channel sampling),

• evaluating the variances of total secondary sampling error (error of preparation of assay samples) and analytical error introduced by assaying of sulphur and ash,

• assessing the contribution of sampling and analytical errors (global estimation error) to the interpolation errors.

The authors found that the interpolation errors for ash or sulphur content are very large, with mean relative values of 35%-60%, mainly caused by the considerable natural variability, a significant role of random component of variability, and heterogeneity of spatial distribution of these characteristics. The sampling and analytical errors play a negligible role. Their values are smaller than 11% of interpolation error values. Presenting estimates of the spatial distribution of ash and sulphur contents in coal seams by means of contour maps is unreasonable if they are based on drill core sampling.
Standardization of light scattering measurements
Authors: Schröder Sven , von Finck Alexander , Duparré Angela
Published: November 2015

In every advanced optical system, light scattering caused by the imperfections of optical components sooner or later becomes an issue that needs to be addressed. Light scattering can be a critical factor for both the throughput and the imaging quality of optical systems. On a component level, the quantities to describe these effects are the scatter loss or total scattering (TS) and the scattering distribution function or angle-resolved light scattering (ARS). In the last decades, a number of instruments have been developed worldwide for the measurement of TS and ARS. However, numerous pitfalls have to be avoided to obtain objective, reliable, and reproducible measurement results. This is, in particular, true for low scatter levels of high-end optical components. Standard procedures that have to be both concise and easy to implement are thus of crucial importance for the optics community. This paper tries to give an overview on existing standards as well as an outlook on new standards that are still being developed. Special emphasis is put on ISO standards jointly developed, reviewed, and revised by the international experts in the field.
The South African estuarine specialist Codium tenue (Bryopsidales, Chlorophyta) discovered in a south-western Australian estuary
Authors: Huisman John M. , Dixon Rainbo R.M. , Hart Felicity N. , Verbruggen Heroen , Anderson Robert J.
Published: November 2015

Codium tenue, previously known reliably only from estuarine habitats in South Africa, is recorded from a similar habitat in the Walpole and Nornalup Inlet system, on the south coast of Western Australia. The Australian C. tenue has a repeatedly divaricately dichotomously branched thallus to 11.5 cm in height, with markedly compressed axes up to 1 cm in width at branch dichotomies, but distally attenuating to terete branch apices. Structurally, thalli have cortices with distinctive cuneate utricles up to 1310 μm long and 650 μm in diameter. Both the habit and structural morphology essentially agree with C. tenue as known in South Africa. Sequences generated from the Australian specimens are also wholly comparable with those of South African specimens newly generated in this study. While similarly disjunct South African/Western Australian distributions are known for other algae, that of C. tenue is particularly remarkable in that the species is apparently an estuarine specialist.
Total error vs. measurement uncertainty: revolution or evolution?
Authors: Oosterhuis Wytze P. , Theodorsson Elvar
Published: November 2015

The first strategic EFLM conference “Defining analytical performance goals, 15 years after the Stockholm Conference” was held in the autumn of 2014 in Milan. It maintained the Stockholm 1999 hierarchy of performance goals but rearranged them and established five task and finish groups to work on topics related to analytical performance goals including one on the “total error” theory. Jim Westgard recently wrote a comprehensive overview of performance goals and of the total error theory critical of the results and intentions of the Milan 2014 conference. The “total error” theory originated by Jim Westgard and co-workers has a dominating influence on the theory and practice of clinical chemistry but is not accepted in other fields of metrology. The generally accepted uncertainty theory, however, suffers from complex mathematics and conceived impracticability in clinical chemistry. The pros and cons of the total error theory need to be debated, making way for methods that can incorporate all relevant causes of uncertainty when making medical diagnoses and monitoring treatment effects. This development should preferably proceed not as a revolution but as an evolution.
The sociodemographics of political public deliberation: Measuring deliberative quality in different user groups
Authors: Klinger Ulrike , Russmann Uta
Published: November 2015

Governments and local administrations increasingly use the internet to improve citizens’ participation in deliberation processes. However, research studies have pointed out that deliberation outcomes vary due to the participants’ sociodemographic differences. In this paper, we address this debate by quantitatively measuring different sociodemographic participant groups’ deliberation quality. By building an index of the quality of understanding (IQU), we analyze the quality of 1,991 postings on local political issues that participants contributed during the 2011 Zurich City debate. We defined five indicators for deliberation quality: statement of reasons, proposals for solutions, respect, doubts, and reciprocity. The analysis confirms that the sociodemographic composition of the participants is of great importance for self-selected participation and deliberation quantity, but not for the deliberation quality.
“Help me. I am so alone.” Online emotional self-disclosure in shared coping-processes of children and adolescents on social networking platforms.
Authors: Döveling Katrin
Published: November 2015

Losing a close relative or friend is a traumatic event for anyone, especially for children and adolescents. This article investigates the motives and patterns of children’s and adolescents’ interpersonal online communication on bereavement platforms. A qualitative content analysis of two different youth bereavement platforms (