bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comportamento do Consumidor: o Caso da Proibição das Sacolas Plásticas no Município de São Paulo, Brasil
Authors: Régis Milena De Moura , Lamano-Ferreira Ana Paula Do Nascimento , Ramos Heidy Rodrigues , Soares Maria Eduarda , Costa Guilherme Alonso , Valente Moisés Aparecido , Cortês Pedro Luiz
Published: April 2016

Esta pesquisa procurou verificar o comportamento do consumidor antes e após a proibição da distribuição gratuita de sacolas plásticas pelos supermercados na cidade de São Paulo (Brasil). Foram comparadas as estratégias utilizadas no período de adequação e no primeiro mês de proibição. Para isto foram realizadas observações durante dez semanas em quatro bairros, todos localizados no município de São Paulo. Foi observado o comportamento de 3.778 consumidores. Observou-se que 69% dos consumidores levavam suas compras nas sacolas plásticas, enquanto eram gratuitas. Após este período observou-se que 65% dos consumidores utilizaram sacolas ecológicas. Outros meios para armazenamento e transporte foram utilizados.
Sales: Uma Marca, Um Sobrenome e Quatro Histórias Empresariais
Authors: Lima Maria Tereza Gomes de Almeida , Carvalho Raquel Teixeira , Fonseca Elisângela Aparecida Longatti , Goddi Rafaela De Sousa
Published: April 2016

O artigo que aqui se configura é fruto do projeto de pesquisa “Dos arquivos orais aos perfis de um administrador” desenvolvido por professoras e alunas do Curso de Administração do Instituto de Ensino Superior Presidente Tancredo de Almeida Neves (IPTAN). Através de entrevistas, investigamos a trajetória de quatro empresários – os proprietários da rede de Supermercado Sales – e trouxemos ao presente histórias que estavam esquecidas há mais de 50 anos. Mesmo sabendo que tivemos acesso a resquícios de um passado que foi atualizado no momento da rememoração, refizemos parte do caminho que quatro irmãos percorreram para transformar uma única mercearia em uma rede de supermercados com 13 lojas, espalhadas por oito cidades do estado de Minas Gerais. A partir das idas e vindas da memória dos entrevistados, trouxemos ao presente considerações importantes sobre o papel do administrador contemporâneo, corroborando pesquisas de diversas áreas do conhecimento.
Proposição de Melhorias no Clima Organizacional da Vara da Infância e Juventude de Foz do Iguaçu
Authors: Pires Franciani , Derrosso Giuliano
Published: April 2016

Este artigo busca propor sugestões de melhorias para as variáveis de clima organizacional da Vara da Infância e Juventude - VIJ do Tribunal de Justiça de Foz do Iguaçu-PR. A pesquisa tem por objetivo compreender o clima organizacional em uma instituição de administração pública, verificando como este conceito se aplica na gestão pública. Para isso, realizou-se uma pesquisa de clima organizacional entre os colaboradores que trabalham na VIJ. Para este artigo foram analisadas as seguintes variáveis de clima: Salários, Benefícios, Planos de Carreira, Capacitação,
Valorização do Funcionário, Ambiente de Trabalho/Clima e Condições Físicas e de Segurança. Ao término do trabalho, foram sugeridas algumas proposições de melhorias que poderão auxiliar no aumento da satisfação das variáveis e da melhoria do clima em uma instituição de gestão pública.
Uma Análise do Processo Decisório sob a Lente do Framing Effect
Authors: Dos Santos Nascimento Divane Dias Dias , Souza Caroline Lang
Published: April 2016

O processo decisório merece destaque nas organizações, por influenciar diretamente nas estratégias delas, e por este motivo torna-se importante analisar os vieses de decisão que podem influenciá-lo. O presente estudo teve como objetivo verificar a existência do Framing effect, previsto por Kahneman e Tversky, em sua Teoria dos Prospectos. A pesquisa é do tipo Survey e foram aplicados 123 questionários aos estudantes do curso de Bacharelado em Ciências Contábeis do Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Paraná – IFPR, Campus Curitiba e os resultados confirmaram a existência do Framing effect.
A Edição de Súmulas Vinculantes e Impeditivas de Recursos pelos Tribunais Superiores – Celeridade Jurisdicional ou Usurpação de Competência?
Authors: Menezes Vinícius Pereira Pereira
Published: April 2016

A Emenda Constitucional 45, de dezembro de 2004, ficou conhecida como “Reforma do Poder Judiciário” e tinha por objetivo acelerar o andamento dos processos judiciais e desafogar o Poder Judiciário das inúmeras demandas com pedidos repetidamente interpostos. Nesse contexto, foram implementadas diversas inovações no âmbito do Direito Processual. Dentre elas se destacam as súmulas vinculantes e as impeditivas de recursos. Neste trabalho busca-se analisar os efeitos negativos da crescente hegemonia do Poder Judiciário em relação aos
demais poderes no contexto jurídico brasileiro. Questiona-se, ainda, a legitimidade de tais instrumentos jurídicos no Estado democrático de Direito e suas implicações jurídicas e sociais.
Questões de Gênero e Sexualidade em Xeque e Famílias em Choque. O que a Escola tem a Ver com Isso?
Authors: Barroso Tânia Silva Neumann , Belli Jurema Iara Reis
Published: April 2016

O objetivo principal deste artigo foi analisar as narrativas de jovens adolescentes do último ano do ensino fundamental (9º ano) sobre os
conhecimentos e conceitos de gênero, sexualidade, identidade, orientação sexual, buscando tecer alguns conhecimentos e informações, aproximando-os da realidade vivenciada na família, na escola e na sociedade na qual vivem. Problematizamos o estudo com este grupo, a partir das narrativas que envolveram os debates presentes nas aulas de Geografia com o tema “orientação sexual”, que ganhou enfoque no grupo a partir da seguinte colocação: “O meu irmão não sabe se é homem ou mulher... Muitas vezes ele gosta de colocar roupas da minha irmã”. A discussão teórica permeia a relação dos tópicos acima, embasada nas perspectivas dos Parâmetros Curriculares Nacionais – PCN – e por autores que discutem a temática. Os resultados indicaram um enorme caminho ainda a ser trilhado, para desmistificar as ideias acerca da sexualidade, identidade de gênero, orientação sexual, enfim, a construção de uma sociedade mais igualitária e tolerante às diferenças.
Foreign direct investment inflows on tax revenues in the transition economies of european union
Authors: Odabas Hakki
Published: April 2016

There have been significant increases in the flows of foreign direct investment inflows in the world together with the globalization process as of 1980s. In this regard, this study examines the impact of foreign direct investment inflows on the tax revenues in the selected transition economies of the European Union including Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia and Slovenia during the period 1996-2012 by using Dumitrescu and Hurlin (2012) causality test. We found that there was unidirectional causality from foreign direct investment net inflows to the tax revenues, and also there was unidirectional causality from foreign direct investment net inflows to the economic growth.Keywords: Tax revenues, foreign direct investment inflows, economic growth, panel data analysis
تعليم اللغة العربية بإندونيسيا في ضوء العلوم العصبية النفسية
Authors: Hilmi Danial
Published: April 2016

يتطلب من تعليم اللغة العربية توفير أحوال عقول الدارسين في قبول الدروس وتعبيرها بالقدرة اللغوية. في الواقع أن هناك مشكلات في تحقيقه حيث كانت كفاءتهم الشفهية كالكفاءة الأساسية للغة لا تجري جيدا خاصة في ضوء العلوم العصبية النفسية. هذه الأمور يؤدي إليها إعداد الأهداف والمواد التي لا تراعي احتياجات عقولهم. اختيار طرائق وأساليب تعليمها يفيد الجانب الأيسر من الدماغ كثيرا ولو تقع اللغة فيه، ولكن إذا كان الجانب الأيمن لا يستفاد جيدا فيكون التعليم من متطلبه الاختراعي فيه لا يجري جيدا.

The demand of learning Arabic fundamentally requires the optimization of the condition of brain’s learners in receiving and expressing language skills. In reality, problems can be found in the process of implementation in which the speaking competenceas a core language skill cannot be well realized, when particularly inspected through Neuropsychology perspective.  This is because the designs of purpose and material do not consider the brain needs of the learners. In addition, selection of instruction methods and strategies tend to reflect the optimization of left brain even though language lies in the left brain. In contrary, if the brain is not well maximized and balanced, then the language learning requiring the creativity embodied in the right brain cannot be well activated too.
Anhelos de libertad. Familias afromestizas en San Juan de la Frontera. (Argentina- 1750-1800)
Authors: Donoso Ríos Ana Laura
Published: April 2016

En la sociedad colonial adquirir la condición jurídica de libre era para el esclavo uno de los primeros pasos en los intentos de movilidad social. En estos procesos la familia jugó un papel fundamental siendo un punto de apoyo, de cooperación y solidaridad entre sus integrantes. El presente artículo aborda la realidad de tres familias de esclavos en la ciudad de San Juan (Argentina) durante la segunda mitad del siglo XVIII, en sus intentos, estrategias y recursos para alcanzar la libertad de sus miembros. A partir de documentación notarial (cartas de libertad, testamentos, poderes) y documentación parroquial se reconstruye el camino recorrido por estas familias en sus anhelos de libertad. En los procesos de liberación observados se pone en evidencia diferentes decisiones de las familias esclavas a la hora de liberar a sus miembros en conexión estrecha, entre otras circunstancias, a la relación con sus amos y la capacidad de la familia para reunir los recursos económicos necesarios para el pago.
Familia, Oro y Poder: Las tramas del parentesco. San Juan (1790-1815).
Authors: Fracapani Ríos Eliana Beatriz
Published: April 2016

El propósito de este artículo es mostrar las familias dedicadas a la actividad minera y explicar cómo se fueron tejiendo las redes familiares, para interpretar la estructura de poder, la acumulación de capital y forma en que se articularon las relaciones de producción en el territorio de la actual provincia de San Juan a fines del período colonial. Para la reconstrucción de las mismas se dispone de fuentes de primera mano, como protocolos de escribanos, testamentos y expedientes judiciales.
Vida Familiar en Colonias tardías Periurbanas: Sociabilidad y condiciones de vida (Buenos Aires, Argentina: 1950-1970)
Authors: De Marco Celeste
Published: April 2016

En la segunda mitad del siglo XX, la Argentina experimentó los últimos ensayos de una política de larga tradición, la colonización agrícola. Generalmente, se seleccionaban tierras en la zona pampeana, vinculadas al tradicional perfil productivo agroexportador. No obstante, ciertas zonas del periurbano bonaerense y platense fueron objeto de interés por su capacidad de generar alimentos fácilmente ubicables en las ciudades cercanas y radicar familias, sin embargo, poco es lo que se ha indagado sobre estas últimas. En el presente estudio nos proponemos indagar sobre el carácter multiétnico de sus orígenes, sus trayectorias, modos de trabajo, y prácticas de sociabilidad en estos particulares espacios, para lo cual seleccionamos los casos de las colonias “La Capilla” (Florencio Varela, zona sur del Gran Buenos Aires) y “Justo José de Urquiza” (La Plata, capital provincial). Encontramos que las colonias se consolidaron por la formación de asociaciones formales e informales como espacios de sociabilidad, caracterizado por la fundamental participación de las familias y de los sujetos, que aportaban al entramado desde sus roles y saberes. De modo particular, los niños, como sujetos sociales, lejos de ser periféricos o marginales, cumplieron la función de articular los espacios en los que sus familias se radicaron.
As Tecnologias da Informação e Comunicação e a Educação Física Escolar: a realidade de professores da rede pública municipal de Fortaleza
Authors: Torres Aline Lima , Mota Mabelle Maia , Ferreira Heraldo Simões , Ferreira Aline Fernanda , Darido Suraya Cristina
Published: April 2016

Introdução: observa-se um crescente interesse em pesquisas sobre o uso das Tecnologias da Informação e Comunicação-TICs no universo da Educação Física escolar, assim sendo, esse trabalho objetivou verificar o uso destas, especificamente no que concerne ao uso dos computadores, pelos professores da rede pública municipal de ensino da cidade de Fortaleza-CE. Método: Participaram do estudo 32 professores. Os dados foram coletados por meio de um questionário semiestruturado composto por questões mistas a respeito do uso das TICs nas aulas de Educação Física. Os dados obtidos foram analisados por estatística descritiva e expressos em gráficos e tabelas. Também foi realizada uma análise das questões abertas como forma de compreender o pensamento do grupo pesquisado a respeito do uso de computadores nas aulas de Educação Física. Resultados: Constatou-se que a maioria dos professores raramente utiliza o computador em suas aulas e, mesmo aqueles que utilizam, o fizeram com pouca frequência no decorrer do ano letivo. Verificou-se que os principais motivos seriam a falta de profissionais nos laboratórios e estrutura física adequada para possibilitar a implementação das atividades. Conclusão: Tais achados indicam a necessidade de uma maior atenção à infraestrutura e apoio aos professores.
Influencia del acristalamiento sobre los parámetros y la calificación energética de acuerdo con la orientación del edificio y los porcentajes de aberturas de fachada = The influence of glazing over the parameters and energy rating according to the building orientation and the façade openings percentages.
Authors: Ávila-Delgado Jorge , Robador María Dolores , Barrera José Antonio , Marrero Madelyn
Published: April 2016

Resumen Es bien conocida la importancia de los cristales en la demanda de energía del edificio, ya que la envolvente térmica es lo más importante. En este trabajo se ha realizado un estudio de la influencia de la transmitancia térmica (factor U) y el factor solar (valor g) de tres tipos diferentes de acristalamiento en la calificación energética. Se ha realizado el análisis en una vivienda unifamiliar situada en la ciudad de Sevilla, España, con diferentes hipótesis, en concreto seis porcentajes de apertura que van desde 10 a 60% considerado por el Código Técnico de la Edificación español, y cuatro orientaciones según las direcciones cardinales. Para los tipos de zona climático y acristalamiento considerados, el valor del parámetro g tiene mayor incidencia en el rendimiento energético que la transmitancia térmica. Se ha establecido qué orientación proporciona mayor ahorro de energía, independientemente de la demanda de calefacción y enfriamiento y de la calificación energética. Además, hay que considerar los valores ideales de ambos parámetros para cada orientación con el fin de mejorar la calificación energética. Por lo tanto, al seleccionar un tipo de acristalamiento, sería importante tener en cuenta los mejores valores de los parámetros "T" y "g" para cada orientación con el fin de obtener menor gasto de energía. Abstract It is well known the significant impact of glazing over the building energy demand making it the thermal envelope’s most important part. A study of the influence of thermal transmittance (U-factor) and solar factor (g-value) of three different glazing types over the parameters and energy rating are shown in this paper. A single-family dwelling located in Seville city, Spain, has been analyzed to which a set of hypotheses, six opening percentages ranging from 10 to 60% considered by the Spanish Building Code on its simplified option, and different combinations, four orientations matching the cardinal directions, has been applied. For the climate zone and glazing types considered, the g-value parameter has a higher incidence on the global demand and energy rating than thermal transmittance. It is established which orientation greater energy savings can be achieved independently for heating, cooling demand and energy rating. Also the ideal values for both parameters that should be considered in each orientation in order to improve the energy rating. Therefore, when selecting a type of glazing it would be important to consider the best “U” and “g” parameter values together for each orientation in order to get the lowest energy demand possible.
A Deeper Look at Modularization in Facilities Construction
Authors: Whitfield Stephen
Published: April 2016

As the industry looks for ways to lower costs and increase project efficiency, owners and operators have increasingly turned to an old standby in developing their projects. Modularization--the act of constructing facilities and equipment at offsite fabrication yards--affords companies the opportunity to bypass some of the hassles that may arise when doing primary construction work on-site, like the lack of skilled labor, or the physical constraints of an oil field. This feature examines the pluses and minuses of modularization, along with a look at how some companies are incorporating a modular approach into new technologies and facility designs.
Projeto "MusiCArt: entre vozes e ecos da cultura musical" promovendo as primeiras experiências com a música
Authors: De Ávila Lília Leandra , Da Silva Márcia Onísia , Pinto Daiane Do Carmo , De Oliveira Kamilla Botelho , Jardim Nayara Macedo de Lima
Published: April 2016

Apresentamos neste artigo um relato das ações e experiências vividas no projeto de extensão “MusiCArt: entre vozes e ecos da cultura musical” vinculado ao curso de Licenciatura em Educação Infantil da Universidade Federal de Viçosa. Visando promover a musicalização, o projeto realiza atividades que envolvem a apreciação, o fazer e a reflexão sobre a música. O público alvo são crianças, familiares, educadores, graduandos e comunidade de Viçosa e região. Ao longo do texto, buscamos expor algumas reflexões sobre as primeiras experiências da criança com a música, sobretudo no contexto da educação infantil para justificar sua importância. Nossas vivências no projeto têm demonstrado que, embora as condições materiais das escolas e de formação específica dos educadores possam não ser as consideradas ideais, ainda assim, é possível ressignificar as atividades desenvolvidas nas instituições de educação infantil, conferindo maior valor à música, enquanto objeto de conhecimento.
Gerenciamento do resíduo sólido no ambiente de trabalho: uma visão socioambiental
Authors: Fortes Nayara De Paula , Vieira Geisla Teles , Da Silva Carlos Henrique
Published: April 2016

O trabalho surgiu da iniciativa de uma aluna do curso de Engenharia Ambiental da UEMG, campus João Monlevade, cuja experiência profissional técnica em contabilidade a motivou a buscar formas de promover o comprometimento das empresas com a prática de responsabilidade ambiental. O objetivo foi reduzir o acúmulo de papel reciclável no local de trabalho, doando-o à associação de catadores (Atlimarjom), uma vez que o município não possui coleta seletiva operacional. Para execução deste estudo, procederam-se 35 visitas em escritórios de contabilidade e empresas afins - acumuladores de papel branco - para explanação do projeto e convites para a participação nele. Após o aceite de 14 empresas/escritórios (40%), uma logística com dias e horários foi definida para a coleta do papel. Como resultado, obteve-se a redução no acúmulo de papel no ambiente de trabalho e o aumento significativo das doações de papel branco feitas para a Atlimarjom, retratando uma prática eficiente e replicável para outros setores.
Molecular mechanisms for the gas-phase conversion of intermediates during cellulose gasification under nitrogen and oxygen/nitrogen
Authors: Fukutome Asuka , Kawamoto Haruo , Saka Shiro
Published: April 2016

Gas-phase conversions of volatile intermediates from cellulose (AvicelPH-101)
were studied using a two-stage experimental setup and compared with those of
levoglucosan (1,6-anhydro-b-D-glucopyranose). Under N2or 7% O2/N2flow, vapors
produced from the pyrolysis zone (500?C) degraded in the secondary reaction
zone at 400,500, 600 or 900?C (residence time:0.8-1.4 s). The 69.3% (C-based)
of levoglucosan was obtained at 400?C under N2flow along with
1,6-anhydro-b-D-glucofuranose (8.3 %, C-based), indicating that these
anhydrosugars are the major volatile intermediates from cellulose pyrolysis.
Levoglucosan and other volatiles started to fragment at 600?C, and cellulose
was completely gasified at 900?C. Most gas/tar formations are explained by
gas-phase reactions of levoglucosan reported previously, except for some
minor reactions originating from the molten-phase pyrolysis, which produced
benzene, furans and 1,6-anhydro-b-D-glucofuranose. Synergetic effects of
O2and volatiles accelerated fragmentation and cellulose gasification was
completed at 600?C, which reduced benzene and hydrocarbon gas productions.
The molecular mechanisms including the action of O2as a biradical are
discussed. These lines of information provide insights into the development
of tar-free clean gasification that maintains high efficiency.
The Effect of Phosphoric Acid Pre-etching Times on Bonding Performance and Surface Free Energy with Single-step Self-etch Adhesives
Authors: Tsujimoto A , Barkmeier WW , Takamizawa T , Latta MA , Miyazaki M
Published: April 2016

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of phosphoric acid pre-etching times on shear bond strength (SBS) and surface free energy (SFE) with single-step self-etch adhesives.

Methods: The three single-step self-etch adhesives used were: 1) Scotchbond Universal Adhesive (3M ESPE), 2) Clearfil tri-S Bond (Kuraray Noritake Dental), and 3) G-Bond Plus (GC). Two no pre-etching groups, 1) untreated enamel and 2) enamel surfaces after ultrasonic cleaning with distilled water for 30 seconds to remove the smear layer, were prepared. There were four pre-etching groups: 1) enamel surfaces were pre-etched with phosphoric acid (Etchant, 3M ESPE) for 3 seconds, 2) enamel surfaces were pre-etched for 5 seconds, 3) enamel surfaces were pre-etched for 10 seconds, and 4) enamel surfaces were pre-etched for 15 seconds. Resin composite was bonded to the treated enamel surface to determine SBS. The SFEs of treated enamel surfaces were determined by measuring the contact angles of three test liquids. Scanning electron microscopy was used to examine the enamel surfaces and enamel-adhesive interface.

Results: The specimens with phosphoric acid pre-etching showed significantly higher SBS and SFEs than the specimens without phosphoric acid pre-etching regardless of the adhesive system used. SBS and SFEs did not increase for phosphoric acid pre-etching times over 3 seconds. There were no significant differences in SBS and SFEs between the specimens with and without a smear layer.

Conclusion: The data suggest that phosphoric acid pre-etching of ground enamel improves the bonding performance of single-step self-etch adhesives, but these bonding properties do not increase for phosphoric acid pre-etching times over 3 seconds.
Emerging Multilingual Awareness in Educational Contexts: From Theory to Practice
Authors: Jessner Ulrike , Allgäuer-Hackl Elisabeth , Hofer Barbara
Published: April 2016

The aim of this article is to stress the importance of a dynamic systems or complexity theory approach as a necessary prerequisite to understanding the development of multi-competence in multilingual learners. Selected results from a study on emergent multilingual awareness in children, carried out in South Tyrol, are outlined and discussed. The classroom activities described in the second part, which were developed mainly in an Austrian school context, focus on multilingual, i.e., metalinguistic and cross-linguistic, awareness and show that multilingual approaches to teaching and learning are linked to significant benefits at the linguistic and metalinguistic levels.
“There Was No Genocide in Rwanda”
Authors: Hedlund Anna
Published: April 2016

This article analyzes how the 1994 genocide in Rwanda is recalled and described by members of a Hutu rebel group, the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) whose leadership can be linked to the 1994 atrocities in Rwanda. The article explores how individuals belonging to this rebel group, currently operating in the eastern territories of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), articulate, contest, and oppose the dominant narrative of the Rwandan genocide. Based on ethnographic fieldwork with members of the FDLR in a rebel camp, this article shows how a community of exiled fighters and second-generation Hutu refugees contest the official version of genocide by constructing a counterhistory of it. Through organized practices such as political demonstrations and military performances, it further shows how political ideologies and violence are being manufactured and reproduced within a setting of military control.
Global Captivities
Authors: Yothers Brian
Published: April 2016

Robert Knox's An Historical Relation of Ceylon (1681) has not been afforded the same critical attention as seventeenth-century captivity narratives from the Americas. This article suggests that considering Knox's work alongside American captivity narratives can help to suggest a more global, comparative approach to the study of captivity, colonialism, and cross-cultural negotiations.
The Politics of Revenge (Pornography)
Authors: Bedor Emma Celeste
Published: April 2016

Revenge pornography emerged in a flurry moral panic in 2010 when Hunter Moore created the website Is Anyone Up? (isanyoneup.com), where anonymous Internet users submitted nude photos for thousands of unknown purveyors to view. Moore’s endeavor appeared ingenious: What better way could angry exes enact revenge and humiliation on former partners than by displaying their naked photos, against their will and without consent, on a notorious website? The site’s “spirit of retaliation,” apparent from an anthem whose lyrics consisted of “Cheated on me and broke my heart / Gonna show the world your private parts” lives on due to the emergence of other revenge pornography sites, despite the fact that isanyoneup.com was disbanded and Moore recently arrested. Using a critical theoretical framework, this article illustrates that victims of revenge pornography are emblematic of post-feminist and neoliberal hostilities. As such, this article contends that revenge pornography is about revenge and humiliation, not sex.
Probabilistic Fatigue Life Prediction of Bridge Cables Based on Multiscaling and Mesoscopic Fracture Mechanics
Authors: Liu Zhongxiang , Guo Tong , Chai Shun
Published: April 2016

Fatigue fracture of bridge stay-cables is usually a multiscale process as the crack grows from micro-scale to macro-scale. Such a process, however, is highly uncertain. In order to make a rational prediction of the residual life of bridge cables, a probabilistic fatigue approach is proposed, based on a comprehensive vehicle load model, finite element analysis and multiscaling and mesoscopic fracture mechanics. Uncertainties in both material properties and external loads are considered. The proposed method is demonstrated through the fatigue life prediction of cables of the Runyang Cable-Stayed Bridge in China, and it is found that cables along the bridge spans may have significantly different fatigue lives, and due to the variability, some of them may have shorter lives than those as expected from the design.
Expression of Concern: Takai, N. and Narahara, H. Epigenetic Therapy in Human Choriocarcinoma. Cancers 2010, 2, 1683–1688
Authors:   Cancers Editorial Office
Published: April 2016

We wish to make readers aware that text in [1] has been taken from other publications by the same author. [...]
Comments on Piero Quarati et al. Negentropy in Many-Body Quantum Systems. Entropy 2016, 18, 63
Authors: Lawrence Jay
Published: April 2016

The purpose of this note is to express my concerns about the published paper by Quarati et al. (Entropy 2016, 18, 63). It is hoped that these comments will stimulate a constructive discussion of the issues involved.
Welcome to the New Journal Epigenomes
Authors: Guccione Ernesto
Published: April 2016

We are excited to introduce Epigenomes, a new journal that will serve the growing community of researchers who use omic approaches to dissect the epigenetic mechanisms underlying developmental and pathological processes.[...]
MicroRNAs in Hyperglycemia Induced Endothelial Cell Dysfunction
Authors: Silambarasan Maskomani , Tan Jun , Karolina Dwi , Armugam Arunmozhiarasi , Kaur Charanjit , Jeyaseelan Kandiah
Published: April 2016

Hyperglycemia is closely associated with prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Hyperglycemia increases the risk of vascular complications such as diabetic retinopathy, diabetic nephropathy, peripheral vascular disease and cerebro/cardiovascular diseases. Under hyperglycemic conditions, the endothelial cells become dysfunctional. In this study, we investigated the miRNA expression changes in human umbilical vein endothelial cells exposed to different glucose concentrations (5, 10, 25 and 40 mM glucose) and at various time intervals (6, 12, 24 and 48 h). miRNA microarray analyses showed that there is a correlation between hyperglycemia induced endothelial dysfunction and miRNA expression. In silico pathways analyses on the altered miRNA expression showed that the majority of the affected biological pathways appeared to be associated to endothelial cell dysfunction and apoptosis. We found the expression of ten miRNAs (miR-26a-5p, -26b-5p, 29b-3p, -29c-3p, -125b-1-3p, -130b-3p, -140-5p, -192-5p, -221-3p and -320a) to increase gradually with increasing concentration of glucose. These miRNAs were also found to be involved in endothelial dysfunction. At least seven of them, miR-29b-3p, -29c-3p, -125b-1-3p, -130b-3p, -221-3p, -320a and -192-5p, can be correlated to endothelial cell apoptosis.
MMP9 Rs3918242 Polymorphism Affects Tachycardia-Induced MMP9 Expression in Cultured Atrial-Derived Myocytes but Is Not a Risk Factor for Atrial Fibrillation among the Taiwanese
Authors: Hsiao Fu-Chih , Yeh Yung-Hsin , Chen Wei-Jan , Chan Yi-Hsin , Kuo Chi-Tai , Wang Chun-Li , Chang Chi-Jen , Tsai Hsin-Yi , Tsai Feng-Chun , Hsu Lung-An
Published: April 2016

Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation (AF). The MMP9 promoter has a functional polymorphism rs3918242 that can regulate the level of gene transcription. This study recruited 200 AF patients and 240 controls. The MMP9 rs3918242 was examined by polymerase chain reactions. HL-1 atrial myocytes were cultured and electrically stimulated. Right atrial appendages were obtained from six patients with AF and three controls with sinus rhythm undergoing open heart surgery. The MMP9 expression and activity were determined using immunohistochemical analysis and gelatin zymography, respectively. Rapid pacing induces MMP9 secretion from HL-1 myocytes in a time- and dose-dependent manner. The responsiveness of MMP9 transcriptional activity to tachypacing was significantly enhanced by rs3918242. The expression of MMP9 was increased in fibrillating atrial tissue than in sinus rhythm. However, the distribution of rs3918242 genotypes and allele frequencies did not significantly differ between the control and AF groups. HL-1 myocyte may secrete MMP9 in response to rapid pacing, and the secretion could be modulated by rs3918242. Although the MMP9 expression of human atrial myocyte is associated with AF, our study did not support the association of susceptibility to AF among Taiwanese subjects with the MMP9 rs3918242 polymorphism.
Placental Expression Patterns of Galectin-1, Galectin-2, Galectin-3 and Galectin-13 in Cases of Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR)
Authors: Hutter Stefan , Knabl Julia , Andergassen Ulrich , Hofmann Simone , Kuhn Christina , Mahner Sven , Arck Petra , Jeschke Udo
Published: April 2016

Galectins (gal) are members of the mammalian β-galactoside-binding proteins and recognize Galβ1-4GlcNAc and Galβ1-4GalNac (Thomsen-Friedenreich antigen (TF)) sequences of several cell surface oligosaccharides. In this study, gal-1, -2, -3 and -13 were investigated systematically in the trophoblast and decidua compartment of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) placentas and normal third trimester control placentas and stratified by fetal gender and gestational age. Within this study, 29 third trimester placentas after delivery were analyzed. Fetal gender was equally divided within both groups, and immunohistochemical staining was analyzed according to fetal gender and gestational age. Double immune-fluorescence with trophoblast-specific markers was used to identify galectin-expressing cells at the feto-maternal interface in the decidua. Gal-3 was significantly downregulated only in the extravillous trophoblast of IUGR placentas. In contrast, expressions of gal-2 and gal-13 were downregulated in both villous and extravillous trophoblast cells of IUGR placentas. In addition, gal-2 and gal-13 showed a highly correlated expression scheme in the placenta. There are significant gender-specific expression patterns for single prototype galectins with downregulation of gal-2 and gal-13 of male gender placentas in cases of IUGR. Gal-3 as the chimera type galectin shows only little gender-specific differences in expression, which disappear in IUGR cases.
On the Relationship between Structural Quality Index and Fatigue Life Distributions in Aluminum Aerospace Castings
Authors: Özdeş Hüseyin , Tiryakioğlu Murat
Published: April 2016

Tensile and fatigue testing results of D357 and B201 aluminum alloy aerospace castings reported in the literature have been reanalyzed. Yield strength–elongation bivariate data have been used as a measure of the structural quality of castings, and converted into quality index. These results as well as fatigue data have been analyzed by using Weibull statistics. A distinct relationship has been observed between expected fatigue life and quality index. Moreover, probability of survival in fatigue life was found to be directly linked to the proportions of the quality index distributions in two different regions, providing further evidence about the strong relationship between elongation, i.e., structural quality and fatigue performance.
Screening for Antibacterial and Antioxidant Activities and Phytochemical Analysis of Oroxylum indicum Fruit Extracts
Authors: Sithisarn Patchima , Nantateerapong Petcharat , Rojsanga Piyanuch , Sithisarn Pongtip
Published: April 2016

Oroxylum indicum, which is called Pheka in Thai, is a traditional Thai plant in the Bignoniaceae family with various ethnomedical uses such as as an astringent, an anti-inflammatory agent, an anti-bronchitic agent, an anti-helminthic agent and an anti-microbial agent. The young fruits of this plant have also been consumed as vegetables. However, there has been no report concerning its antibacterial activities, especially activities related to clinically isolated pathogenic bacteria and the in vitro antioxidant effects of this plant. Therefore, the extracts from O. indicum fruits and seeds collected from different provinces in Thailand were prepared by decoction and maceration with ethanol and determined for their in vitro antibacterial effects on two clinically isolated bacteria, Streptococcus suis and Staphylococcus intermedius, using disc diffusion assay. Ethanol extracts from O. indicum fruits collected from Nakorn Pathom province at the concentration of 1000 mg/mL exhibited intermediate antibacterial activity against S. intermedius with an inhibition zone of 15.11 mm. Moreover, it promoted moderate inhibitory effects on S. suis with an inhibition zone of 14.39 mm. The extracts prepared by maceration with ethanol promoted higher antibacterial activities than those prepared with water. The ethanol extract from the seeds of this plant, purchased in Bangkok, showed stronger in vitro antioxidant activities than the other extracts, with an EC50 value of 26.33 µg/mL. Phytochemical analysis suggested that the seed ethanol extract contained the highest total phenolic and flavonoid contents (10.66 g% gallic acid equivalent and 7.16 g% quercetin equivalent, respectively) by a significant amount. Thin layer chromatographic analysis of the extracts showed the chromatographic band that could correspond to a flavonoid baicalein. From the results, extracts from O. indicum fruits have an in vitro antioxidant effect, with antibacterial potential, on clinically pathologic bacteria and they contain an antioxidant flavonoid which could be developed for medicinal and pharmaceutical purposes in the future.
Effects of Phlomis umbrosa Root on Longitudinal Bone Growth Rate in Adolescent Female Rats
Authors: Lee Donghun , Kim Young-Sik , Song Jungbin , Kim Hyun , Lee Hyun , Guo Hailing , Kim Hocheol
Published: April 2016

This study aimed to investigate the effects of Phlomis umbrosa root on bone growth and growth mediators in rats. Female adolescent rats were administered P. umbrosa extract, recombinant human growth hormone or vehicle for 10 days. Tetracycline was injected intraperitoneally to produce a glowing fluorescence band on the newly formed bone on day 8, and 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine was injected to label proliferating chondrocytes on days 8–10. To assess possible endocrine or autocrine/paracrine mechanisms, we evaluated insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) or bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) in response to P. umbrosa administration in either growth plate or serum. Oral administration of P. umbrosa significantly increased longitudinal bone growth rate, height of hypertrophic zone and chondrocyte proliferation of the proximal tibial growth plate. P. umbrosa also increased serum IGFBP-3 levels and upregulated the expressions of IGF-1 and BMP-2 in growth plate. In conclusion, P. umbrosa increases longitudinal bone growth rate by stimulating proliferation and hypertrophy of chondrocyte with the increment of circulating IGFBP-3. Regarding the immunohistochemical study, the effect of P. umbrosa may also be attributable to upregulation of local IGF-1 and BMP-2 expressions in the growth plate, which can be considered as a GH dependent autocrine/paracrine pathway.
Nanostructured Materials for Li-Ion Batteries and Beyond
Authors: Li Xifei , Sun Xueliang
Published: April 2016

This Special Issue “Nanostructured Materials for Li-Ion Batteries and Beyond” of Nanomaterials is focused on advancements in the synthesis, optimization, and characterization of nanostructured materials, with an emphasis on the application of nanomaterials for building high performance Li-ion batteries (LIBs) and future systems.[...]
Towards A Deeper Understanding of the Interfacial Adsorption of Enzyme Molecules in Gigaporous Polymeric Microspheres
Authors: Wang Weichen , Zhou Weiqing , Wei Wei , Li Juan , Hao Dongxia , Su Zhiguo , Ma Guanghui
Published: April 2016

Compared with the one immobilized in the conventional mesoporous microspheres, the enzyme immobilized in gigaporous microspheres showed much higher activity and better stability. To gain a deeper understanding, we herein selected lipase as a prototype to comparatively analyze the adsorption behavior of lipase at interfaces in gigaporous and mesoporous polystyrene microspheres at very low lipase concentration, and further compared with the adsorption on a completely flat surface (a chip). Owing to the limited space of narrow pores, lipase molecules were inclined to be adsorbed as a monolayer in mesoporous microspheres. During this process, the interaction between lipase molecules and the interface was stronger, which could result in the structural change of lipase molecular and compromised specific activity. In addition to monolayer adsorption, more multilayer adsorption of enzyme molecules also occurred in gigaporous microspheres. Besides the adsorption state, the pore curvature also affected the lipase adsorption. Due to the multilayer adsorption, the excellent mass transfer properties for the substrate and the product in the large pores, and the small pore curvature, lipase immobilized in gigaporous microspheres showed better behaviors.
Scaling of FAPAR from the Field to the Satellite
Authors: Wang Yiting , Xie Donghui , Liu Song , Hu Ronghai , Li Yahui , Yan Guangjian
Published: April 2016

The fraction of absorbed photosynthetically active radiation (FAPAR) is a critical biophysical parameter in eco-environmental studies. Scaling of FAPAR from the field observation to the satellite pixel is essential for validating remote sensing FAPAR product and for further modeling applications. However, compared to spatial mismatches, few studies have considered temporal mismatches between in-situ and satellite observations in the scaling. This paper proposed a general methodology for scaling FAPAR from the field to the satellite pixel considering the temporal variation. Firstly, a temporal normalization method was proposed to normalize the in-situ data measured at different times to the time of satellite overpass. The method was derived from the integration of an atmospheric radiative transfer model (6S) and a FAPAR analytical model (FAPAR-P), which can characterize the diurnal variations of FAPAR comprehensively. Secondly, the logistic model, which derives smooth and consistent temporal profile for vegetation growth, was used to interpolate the in-situ data to match the dates of satellite acquisitions. Thirdly, fine-resolution FAPAR products at different dates were estimated from the Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) data using the temporally corrected in-situ data. Finally, fine-resolution FAPAR were taken as reference datasets and aggregated to coarse resolution, which were further compared to the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) FAPAR product. The methodology is validated for scaling FAPAR from the field to the satellite pixel temporally and spatially. The MODIS FAPAR manifested a good consistency with the aggregated FAPAR with R2 of 0.922 and the root mean squared error of 0.054.
Sustainability of Global and Local Food Value Chains: An Empirical Comparison of Peruvian and Belgian Asparagus
Authors: Schwarz Jana , Schuster Monica , Annaert Bernd , Maertens Miet , Mathijs Erik
Published: April 2016

The sustainability of food value chains is an increasing concern for consumers, food companies and policy-makers. Global food chains are often perceived to be less sustainable than local food chains. Yet, thorough food chain analyses and comparisons of different food chains across sustainability dimensions are rare. In this article we analyze the local Belgian and global Peruvian asparagus value chains and explore their sustainability performance. A range of indicators linked to environmental, economic and social impacts is calculated to analyze the contribution of the supply chains to economic development, resource use, labor relations, distribution of added value and governance issues. Our findings suggest that none of the two supply chains performs invariably better and that there are trade-offs among and between sustainability dimensions. Whereas the global chain uses water and other inputs more intensively and generates more employment per unit of land and higher yields, the local chain generates more revenue per unit of land.
Characterizing the Impact of River Barrage Construction on Stream-Aquifer Interactions, Korea
Authors: Oh Yun-Yeong , Hamm Se-Yeong , Ha Kyoochul , Yoon Heesung , Chung Il-Moon
Published: April 2016

This study investigated changes in stream–aquifer interactions during the period shortly after the construction of the Changnyeong-Haman River barrage (CHRB) on the Nakdong River in South Korea. The hydraulic diffusivity (α) and river resistance (R) values at the semipervious stream–aquifer interface were estimated by using a one-dimensional (1-D) analytical solution with Fourier transform (FT). Prior to the application of the 1-D analytical solution, the noise effects on the groundwater levels were removed by using fast Fourier transform and low-pass filtering techniques. Sinusoidal variation of the river stages was applied to the 1-D analytical solution. For the study period, the R values showed a decreasing trend, while the α values showed an increasing trend, and results showed that the average of the median values of flood duration times (td) and flood amplitudes were reduced to 78% and 59%, respectively. Moreover, the ratio of flood peak time to td demonstrated a decreasing tendency after the construction of the CHRB. Hence, it is concluded that the dredging and increase of river-water storage due to CHRB construction enhanced stream–aquifer interactions during the period shortly after the construction of the CHRB.
REBUILDING WITH A HEART: ARCHITECTURE ROLES IN POST-DISASTER PSYCHOSOCIAL INTERVENTIONS
Authors: Dy Gloryrose Alcoran , Naces Maria Lovella Parcon
Published: April 2016

The presented paper focuses on the role of architecture in post-disaster humanitarian efforts particularly on the return to normalcy and sustainable recovery. Two major approaches were introduce, ‘Architecture of empowerment’ and ‘Strengths-based approach’ to analyze two cases of post disaster rebuilding projects employed in Batug, Leyte Philippines after super-typhoon Haiyan. The objective of the paper was to formulate a framework for post-disaster humanitarian efforts in order to achieve sustainable recovery. Another objective was to look at the interrelationship of the humanitarian architecture and psychosocial intervention or the journey to normalcy. Key Informant Interviews with locals, observers and participants of the shelter project, were used to gather information for both projects. Qualitative analysis and descriptive method were used for the interpretation the gathered data. In the end, a framework was formulated which points out that the integration with the roles of humanitarian architecture ( provider, supporter and catalyst) with strength-based approaches in post-disaster efforts factors of resources, competencies and sustainable recovery and the interplay of all these factors are the vital elements in order to have successful rebuilding projects after disasters.
SOLAR OPACITY CALCULATIONS USING THE SUPER-TRANSITION-ARRAY METHOD
Authors: Krief M. , Feigel A. , Gazit D.
Published: April 2016

A new opacity model has been developed based on the Super-Transition-Array (STA) method for the calculation of monochromatic opacities of plasmas in local thermodynamic equilibrium. The atomic code, named STAR (STA-Revised), is described and used to calculate spectral opacities for a solar model implementing the recent AGSS09 composition. Calculations are carried out throughout the solar radiative zone. The relative contributions of different chemical elements and atomic processes to the total Rosseland mean opacity are analyzed in detail. Monochromatic opacities and charge-state distributions are compared with the widely used Opacity Project (OP) code, for several elements near the radiation–convection interface. STAR Rosseland opacities for the solar mixture show a very good agreement with OP and the OPAL opacity code throughout the radiation zone. Finally, an explicit STA calculation was performed of the full AGSS09 photospheric mixture, including all heavy metals. It was shown that, due to their extremely low abundance, and despite being very good photon absorbers, the heavy elements do not affect the Rosseland opacity.