bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing extension and outreach education
levels for biofuel feedstock production in the
Western United States
Authors: Andrango Graciela C. , Bergtold Jason S. , Archer David , Flora Cornelia
Published: May 2016

A growing biofuels industry requires the devel-
opment of effective methods to educate farmers, govern-
ment, and agribusiness about biofuel feedstock produc-
tion if the market is going to significantly expand beyond
first generation biofuels. Extension and outreach educa-
tion provides a conduit for important research, knowledge
and information to be disseminated to producers and agri-
business that can utilize the information to help establish
biofuel feedstock enterprises and markets. This paper
presents the results of a survey administered to extension
and outreach agents in 10 western states in the United
States to assess the current state of knowledge of exten-
sion and outreach agents, their needs regarding feedstock
production, and mechanisms used for outreach to their
clientele. Results indicate that extension and outreach
agents require additional training on biofuel feedstock
production, especially economic and logistical aspects. In
addition, extension and outreach agents showed a pref-
erence for learning using alternative methods, including
field days, seminars, face-to-face, community education
events, and the internet. Results differ by region and type
of extension and outreach agent.
Essential Tensions: A Framework for Exploring Inequality Through Mortuary Archaeology and Bioarchaeology
Authors: Quinn Colin P. , Beck Jess
Published: May 2016

Research on the emergence of institutionalized inequality has traditionally maintained an analytical divide between lived institutions that affect daily life and performed institutions materialized in mortuary contexts. Here, we argue that convergence or divergence between lived and performed contexts reveals key aspects of past social organization. When combined, mortuary archaeology and bioarchaeology provide a methodological framework well suited to evaluate the coherence or dissonance of such institutions. Three case studies from prehistoric Europe highlight how new insights gained by studying tension between institutions, identities and experiences across social dimensions can transform our understanding of the development of institutionalized inequality.
More Harm than Healing? Investigating the Iatrogenic Effects of Mercury Treatment on Acquired Syphilis in Post-medieval London.
Authors: Zuckerman Molly K.
Published: May 2016

Mercury was commonly used to treat syphilis in post-medieval Europe, but debate persists about
whether it ameliorated infection or exacerbated it. As there are no in vitro studies on mercury’s effectiveness,
Hg levels were characterized using an established technique, portable X-Ray Florescence Spectrometry
(pXRF) in syphilitic skeletons (N=22) from six post-medieval London cemeteries. Levels were assessed against
proxies for syphilitic infection severity (lesion type, episodic involvement, extent of involvement), oral health
indicators, and age at death. The findings are equivocal, likely obfuscated by background poor oral health and
high mortality, and cannot elucidate whether mercury ‘killed or cured’.
Removal of methylene blue dye from wastewater by using supported liquid memberane technology
Authors: Ashraf Muhammad Waqar
Published: May 2016

The present work describes the application of Supported Liquid Membrane (SLM) technology towards the removal and recovery of a cationic dye (Methylene Blue) from aqueous solutions. Natural and non-toxic vegetable oils have been impregnated on microporous polymeric films of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) to constitute a liquid membrane. Different parameters affecting the transport, like pH of feed solution, acid concentration in the strip solution, initial dye concentration, oil types and stirring speeds have been investigated. Highest value of flux (1.7 × 10−5 mg/cm2/sec1) for methylene blue dye was achieved with sunflower oil impregnated on the PVDF support, with pH maintained at 12 in the feed solution and 0.3 M hydrochloric acid concentration in the strip solution. It took 6 hours to transport maximum amount of dye under optimum conditions.
The effects of nanoclay on thermal, mechanical and rheological properties of LLDPE/chitosan blend
Authors: Mir Sadullah , Asghar Bisma , Khan Abida K. , Rashid Rehana , Shaikh Ahson J. , Khan Rafaqat A. , Murtaza Ghulam
Published: May 2016

The objective of this study was to prepare linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE)/chitosan/closite nanocomposites by using various concentrations of LLDPE, chitosan, and closite clay mineral. The nanocomposites were then characterized for their thermal, mechanical, and rheological properties by using different analytical techniques including thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), rheological characterization, tensile strength study, and scanning electron microscopy. The TGA demonstrated that crosslinked composites are thermally more stable than non-crosslinked composites. The DSC stated that the percentage crystallinity of crosslinked composites is lower than the non-crosslinked composites. It is also observed that the increasing quantity of chitosan and closite also reduces the percentage crystallinity of the prepared nanocomposites. Rheological characterization revealed that, crosslinked composites are viscoelastic in nature and have high complex viscosities (η*) and high dynamic shear storage modulus (G′), while non-crosslinked composites showed high dynamic shear loss modulus (G″). Tensile strength of crosslinked composites was much higher than non-crosslinked composites, however elongation at break (Eb) values of non-crosslinked composites are higher than crosslinked composites. The scanning electron microscopy displayed strong adhesion between matrix-filler-interphase in crosslinked composites, while some gaps were also observed in non-crosslinked composites. As a conclusion, chitosan, closite clay, and the LLDPE based nanocomposites with improved thermal, mechanical, and rheological properties can be successfully prepared by employing a peroxide-initiated melt compounding technique.
Meta-analysis of the research impact of Baddeley’s multicomponent working memory model and Cowan’s embedded-processes model of working memory: A bibliometric mapping approach
Authors: Gruszka Aleksandra , Orzechowski Jarosław
Published: May 2016

In this study bibliometric mapping method was employed to visualise the current research trends and the impact of the two most influential models of working memory, namely: A. D. Baddeley and G. J. Hitch’s (1974) multicomponent working memory model and N. Cowan’s (1988) embedded-processes model of working memory. Using VOSviewer software two maps were generated based on the index-term words extracted from the research papers citing Baddeley (2000) and Cowan (2001), respectively. The maps represent networks of co-occurrences of index terms and can be interpreted as an indication of the main research fields related to the examined models of WM. The results of the analysis revealed that the spheres of influence of the two main conceptualisations of WM are rather different than similar. Although the first two clusters, i.e. “brain mapping” and “higher-level cognition and development” are present in both maps, their relative importance varies. The remaining clusters are unique to each map. Baddeley’s theory seems to have a greater influence on “neuropsychology”, while Cowan’s theory - on basic research on “biological systems”, including the nervous system in humans and animals. The second difference between these theories concerns their relations to functions and dysfunctions associated with particular sensory modalities: in Baddelay’s theory with the “auditory modality” cluster, and in Cowan’s - with the “visual modality” one.
Can we measure working memory via the Internet? The reliability and factorial validity of an online n-back task
Authors: Kulikowski Konrad , Potasz-Kulikowska Katarzyna
Published: May 2016

The aim of this study was to check whether an online n-back task conducted in the uncontrolled environment of the Internet can yield valid and reliable data. For this purpose, 169 participants completed an online n-back task with n1, n2 and n3 blocks on their home computers. The results have shown acceptable reliability for overall accuracy and reaction time indices across n1, n2, n3 blocks, as well as for reaction time indices for each n block. Unacceptable reliability has been found for separate n levels accuracy indices and for response bias indices. Confirmatory factor analysis has revealed that, among 8 proposed measurement models, the best fit for the data collected is a model with two uncorrelated factors: accuracy consisting of n1, n2, n3 indices and reaction time consisting of n2, n3 indices. The results of this study have demonstrated for the first time that a reliable administration of online n-back task is possible and may therefore give rise to new opportunities for working memory research.
No Spearman’s Law of Diminishing Returns for the working memory and intelligence relationship
Authors: Kroczek Bartłomiej , Ociepka Michał , Chuderski Adam
Published: May 2016

Spearman’s Law of Diminishing Returns (SLODR) holds that correlation between general (g)/fluid (Gf) intelligence factor and other cognitive abilities weakens with increasing ability level. Thus, cognitive processing in low ability people is most strongly saturated by g/Gf, whereas processing in high ability people depends less on g/Gf. Numerous studies demonstrated that low g is more strongly correlated with crystallized intelligence/creativity/processing speed than is high g, however no study tested an analogous effect in the case of working memory (WM). Our aim was to investigate SLODR for the relationship between Gf and WM capacity, using a large data set from our own previous studies. We tested alternative regression models separately for three types of WM tasks that tapped short-term memory storage, attention control, and relational integration, respectively. No significant SLODR effect was found for any of these tasks. Each task shared with Gf virtually the same amount of variance in the case of low- and high-ability people. This result suggests that Gf and WM rely on one and the same (neuro)cognitive mechanism.
Field Dependence, Efficiency of Information Processing in Working Memory and Susceptibility to Orientation Illusions among Architects
Authors: Młyniec Agnieszka , Bednarek Hanna
Published: May 2016

This study examined cognitive predictors of susceptibility to orientation illusions: Poggendorff, Ponzo, and Zöllner. It was assumed that lower efficiency of information processing in WM and higher field dependence are conducive to orientation illusions. 61 architects (30 women) aged M = 29, +/- 1.6, and 49 university students (29 women) aged M = 23.53, +/- 4.24, were tested with Witkin’s EFT to assess their field dependence; the SWATT method was used as a measure of WM efficiency, and susceptibility to visual illusions was verified with a series of computer tasks. We obtained a small range of the explained variance in the regression models including FDI and WM indicators. On the basis of WM efficiency indicators, we managed to confirm the existence of memory predictors of susceptibility to illusions (they are rather weak, as they explain from 6% to 14% of the variance of the dependent variable). Among the architects, lower efficiency of WM processing (weaker inhibition, task-switching) and higher field dependence are responsible for greater susceptibility to orientation illusions.
The Chameleon as a Leech: The Costs of Mimicry for the Mimickee
Authors: Kot Sylwia , Kulesza Wojciech
Published: May 2016

Mimicry is known to produce benefits for the mimicker such as liking, increased prosocial tendencies (e.g., higher donations), and trust. Little is known about the benefits or costs to the mimickee. The aim of this study is to explore this issue. Participants were mimicked or not by a confederate. The confederate then dropped pens and checked if the participants picked them up (a proxy for prosocial behavior). Finally, questionnaires were administered that assessed each participant’s liking of the confederate and self-liking, and self-esteem. As expected, mimicked participants picked up more pens and liked the mimicker more. Surprisingly, mimicked participants reported significantly lower self-like when compared to non-mimicked participants, and their self-esteem tended towards being lower. This research fills an important theoretical gap showing that there is a great cost to mimicry.
Perceived childhood emotional parentification is associated with Machiavellianism in men but not in women
Authors: Láng András
Published: May 2016

Recent research has revealed several developmental aspects of Machiavellianism. In this study, we explored the potential relationship between perceived parentification in the family of origin and Machiavellianism in adulthood. Three hundred and ninety five Hungarian adults (282 women) completed self-report measures of parentification and Machiavellianism. Results showed that emotional parentification and children’s unacknowledged efforts to contribute to the well-being of their families were associated with Machiavellianism - but only in men. Machiavellian tactics and worldview are proposed as possible coping mechanisms with the neglectful and unpredictable family environment. Gender differences in the results are explained in terms of gender role socialization and men’s and women’s different susceptibility for different forms of psychopathology.
The meaning of the body schema in reaching maturity during late adolescence
Authors: Mirucka Beata
Published: May 2016

The objective of the research presented in this paper was to investigate whether an association existed between the activation of the body schema and reaching adulthood among people in late adolescence. Three activities that are known to enjoy popularity among young people were analysed, namely: dancing, playing computer games that require motor involvement (e.g. Kinect), and playing computer games of an educational and entertaining character. It was assumed that the chosen forms of activity correspond to three levels of activation of the body schema. The following research methods have been applied to this study: the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (SES), the Defence Style Questionnaire (DSQ), and the Bodily Self Representation Questionnaire. The study has proven that the activation of body schema through dance is significantly related to high self-esteem and the use of mainly mature and neurotic defence mechanisms in threat situations.
A cautionary approach in transitioning to ‘green’ energy technologies and practices is required
Authors: Matatiele Puleng , Gulumian Mary
Published: May 2016

Renewable energy technologies (wind turbines, solar cells, biofuels, etc.) are often referred to as ‘clean’ or ‘green’ energy sources, while jobs linked to the field of environmental protection and energy efficiency are referred to as ‘green’ jobs. The energy efficiency of clean technologies, which is likely to reduce and/or eliminate reliance on fossil fuels, is acknowledged. However, the potential contribution of green technologies and associated practices to ill health and environmental pollution resulting from consumption of energy and raw materials, generation of waste, and the negative impacts related to some life cycle phases of these technologies are discussed. Similarly, a point is made that the green jobs theme is mistakenly oversold because the employment opportunities generated by transitioning to green technologies are not necessarily safe and healthy jobs. Emphasis is put on identifying the hazards associated with these green designs, assessing the risks to the environment and worker health and safety, and either eliminating the hazards or minimizing the risks as essential elements to the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of green technologies. The perception that it is not always economically possible to consider all risk factors associated with renewable energy technologies at the beginning without hampering their implementation, especially in the poor developing countries, is dismissed. Instead, poor countries are encouraged to start implementing environmentally sound practices while transitioning to green technologies in line with their technological development and overall economic growth.
Role of hippocampal activity-induced transcription in memory consolidation
Authors: Eagle Andrew L. , Gajewski Paula A. , Robison Alfred J.
Published: May 2016

Experience-dependent changes in the strength of connections between neurons in the hippocampus (HPC) are critical for normal learning and memory consolidation, and disruption of this process drives a variety of neurological and psychiatric diseases. Proper HPC function relies upon discrete changes in gene expression driven by transcription factors (TFs) induced by neuronal activity. Here, we describe the induction and function of many of the most well-studied HPC TFs, including cyclic-AMP response element binding protein, serum-response factor, AP-1, and others, and describe their role in the learning process. We also discuss the known target genes of many of these TFs and the purported mechanisms by which they regulate long-term changes in HPC synaptic strength. Moreover, we propose that future research in this field will depend upon unbiased identification of additional gene targets for these activity-dependent TFs and subsequent meta-analyses that identify common genes or pathways regulated by multiple TFs in the HPC during learning or disease.
Food-ography: Food and new media
Authors: Calefato Patrizia , La Fortuna Loredana , Scelzi Raffaella
Published: May 2016

Ever since Roland Barthes began to analyze food as a language, a symbol of culture and ideology, semiotics also began to study food in its connotative value or as a form of social identity and as a new “lifestyle.” As a matter of fact this approach is evident because our contemporary postmodern society can be defined as an orthorexic society, in which everybody, everywhere is constantly speaking about food. This phenomenon is called foodism, a practice particularly emphasized in the new media. In this article a specific type of foodism is analyzed: the practice of food–photography. This includes both an individual practice meant to be a self-expression, known by the famous name “food porn,” a sort of food “selfie” and also photography as an artistic expression, a new art form, a practice which can be seen at food photography exhibitions. Different from other forms of foodism, this particular form of food practice is emphasized by the viral use of photography through social networks. Nowadays, new media is the place in where social and individual identity originates therefore semiotics and sociosemiotics must study these new forms of communication to interpret the value of food in contemporary society and the sense of this phenomenon.
A note on the meanings of junk food
Authors: Danesi Marcel
Published: May 2016

Junk food is an anomaly when it comes to historical traditions of cuisine. It emerges in the context of youth culture in America in the model part of the twentieth century but soon morphs into a type of food eaten by people of any age. This transformation of its meaning is part of a symptomatology inherent in consumerist cultures, whereby objects of any kind (including food) are produced quickly, cheaply, and faddishly, reflecting a discontinuity with historical traditions. The semiotic analysis of fast food corroborates Barthes’s critique of consumerism as a culture of commodification and it also points out the power of socioeconomic forces to transform historical meaning structures.
Structural systematics of aryl-1,3-dithiane derivatives: crystal and energy-minimised structures, and Hirshfeld surface analysis
Authors: Zukerman-Schpector Julio , Madureira Lucas Sousa , Stefani Hélio A. , Gozhina Olga , Tiekink Edward R.T.
Published: May 2016

The crystal structure analysis of three aryl-1,3-dithiane derivatives, with aryl=4-methylphenyl (1), 4-chlorophenyl (2) and 2,4-dichlorophenyl (3), shows the three molecules to have very similar conformations, with the aryl ring lying on an approximate mirror plane that bisects the dithiane ring which adopts a chair conformation; the energy-minimised structures are consistent with the experimental structures. The greater barrier to rotation about the methine-C–C(ipso) bond in 3, cf. 1 and 2, is related to unfavourable intramolecular S···Cl interactions in the putative transition state. The molecular packing in 1–3, while globally similar, are distinct, being based on combinations of identifiable C–H···π(arene), C–H···S and C–Cl···π(arene) interactions. The lack of isostructural relationships points to the significance of the identified intermolecular interactions to direct molecular packing.
Clinical and genetic characterization of congenital hyperinsulinism in Spain
Authors: Martínez R , Fernández-Ramos C , Vela A , Velayos T , Aguayo A , Urrutia I , Rica I , Castaño L , _ _
Published: May 2016

Context

Congenital hyperinsulinism (CHI) is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous disease characterized by severe hypoglycemia caused by inappropriate insulin secretion by pancreatic β-cells.

Objective

To characterize clinically and genetically CHI patients in Spain.

Design and methods

We included 50 patients with CHI from Spain. Clinical information was provided by the referring clinicians. Mutational analysis was carried out for KCNJ11, ABCC8, and GCK genes. The GLUD1, HNF4A, HNF1A, UCP2, and HADH genes were sequenced depending on the clinical phenotype.

Results

We identified the genetic etiology in 28 of the 50 CHI patients tested: 21 had a mutation in KATP channel genes (42%), three in GLUD1 (6%), and four in GCK (8%). Most mutations were found in ABCC8 (20/50). Half of these patients (10/20) were homozygous or compound heterozygous, with nine being unresponsive to diazoxide treatment. The other half had heterozygous mutations in ABCC8, six of them being unresponsive to diazoxide treatment and four being responsive to diazoxide treatment. We identified 22 different mutations in the KATP channel genes, of which ten were novel. Notably, patients with ABCC8 mutations were diagnosed earlier, with lower blood glucose levels and required higher doses of diazoxide than those without a genetic diagnosis.

Conclusions

Genetic analysis revealed mutations in 56% of the CHI patients. ABCC8 mutations are the most frequent cause of CHI in Spain. We found ten novel mutations in the KATP channel genes. The genetic diagnosis is more likely to be achieved in patients with onset within the first week of life and in those who fail to respond to diazoxide treatment.
Interrelation between glazing and summer operative temperature in buildings
Authors: Kalmár F.
Published: May 2016

Nowadays large transparent surfaces are widely used in office and public buildings. The positive effect of great views and natural light on people’s comfort is well known, but the high glazed ratio of building facades can lead to excessively high cooling energy demands. The heat load can be reduced by using glazing with high reflexion coating outwards and low emission coating inwards, triple panes and inert gas between the panes. Choosing proper thermal mass can further help in reducing the amplitude of the indoor operative temperature. In this paper the effects of solar factor of glazing, heat transfer coefficient of windows, windows area and thermal mass were analysed in an imaginary room with 3.0×4.0×2.8 m dimensions. As the results show the effect of the overall heat transfer coefficient is negligible. The effect of solar factor depends on the orientation. The expected differences between the amplitudes of the operative temperature are between 0.5 to 6 K for the analyzed room, depending on the thermal mass, orientation, solar factor and window area.
Growth and plant mass of radish fertirrigated with different doses nitrogen
Authors: Silva Patrícia Ferreira da , Matos Rigoberto Moreira de , Ediclecia Vitoria , Alencar Aryadne Ellen Vilar de , Dantas Neto José
Published: May 2016

ABSTRACT The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of nitrogen doses applied via fertigation and associated with different types of crop establishment fertilization on growth and biomass of radish. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse of the Academic Unit of Agricultural Engineering, Federal University of Campina Grande, from April to May 2014. Treatments consisted of five doses of nitrogen fertilizer applied by fertigation (0, 0.7, 1.4, 2.1 and 2.8g per pot) and three types of crop establishment fertilization (humus 2:2; NPK and control), arranged in a 5 x 3 factor design with four repetitions. The 15 treatments were arranged in 60 plots. The nitrogen source used in the study was urea, divided in three applications: the first application was carried out eight days after transplanting, the second, on day 15, and the third, on day 22. The crop establishment fertilization significantly influenced the growth variables and plant mass of the radish on day 35 after transplanting. The highest values of the variables (number of leaves, plant height, bulb diameter, leaf area, fresh mass of the aerial part, dry mass of the aerial part and root/aerial part were observed in the treatment with humus on day 35 after transplanting. The dose of 2.8g nitrogen per pot corresponding to 6.22g of urea per plant provided the highest yield for the variable number of leafs, leaf area and root length on day 35 after transplanting.
As bibliotecas universitárias em perspectiva histórica: a caminho do desenvolvimento durável
Authors: Nunes Martha Suzana Cabral , Carvalho Kátia de
Published: May 2016

RESUMO Apresenta a evolução das bibliotecas universitárias como instituições seculares, cuja evolução dá-se a partir do crescimento bibliográfico e do surgimento das primeiras universidades na Idade Média. O objetivo desse artigo é compreender a evolução das bibliotecas universitárias em uma perspectiva histórica de modo a identificar suas características específicas, seus agentes e os dispositivos adotados por essas instituições difusoras do conhecimento. Utilizou-se de pesquisa bibliográfica e documental para elaboração do artigo e discussão do tema. Conhecer esse percurso histórico possibilita a apreensão dos primeiros vestígios das bibliotecas universitárias e sua evolução, seus percalços e desafios, assim como situa a atuação dos profissionais da informação na condução de ações de mediação e apropriação da informação na perspectiva da formação de indivíduos não apenas competentes em informação, mas capazes de exercer seu protagonismo social.
A politização do monstro
Authors: Christaki Angélique
Published: May 2016

RESUMO: As Erínias tinham por função despertar o ódio e a sideração. A politização das Erínias em As Eumênides, de Ésquilo, e sua transformação em Benevolentes seres de fala participam da elaboração na poética do discurso trágico de uma palavra que subjetiva a culpa e o ódio.
Condensation, Trauma and Perceptive Density of Language - Freud with Jorge Luis Borges
Authors: Pinto Tainá , Rivera Tania
Published: May 2016

ABSTRACT: This essay examines the question of perceptual vividness, which will lead to an exploration of condensation in its articulation with trauma. A hypothesis is then formulated around the existence of two different types of reproduction of the traces inscribed in the psychic apparatus: one to do with memory, the other with re-living. Jorge Luis Borges' story 'The Aleph' helps us to think about those traces as the letter - and about its relationship with perception as traumatic excess.
Staff training to reduce behavioral and psychiatric symptoms of dementia in nursing home residents: A systematic review of intervention reproducibility
Authors: Reis Ramon Castro , Dalpai Débora , Camozzato Analuiza
Published: May 2016

ABSTRACT Staff training has been cited as an effective intervention to reduce behavioral and psychiatric symptoms of dementia (BPSD) in nursing home residents. However, the reproducibility of interventions can be a barrier to their dissemination. A systematic review of controlled clinical trials on the effectiveness of staff training for reducing BPSD, published between 1990 and 2013 on the EMBASE, PUBMED, LILACS, PSYCHINFO and CINAHL databases, was carried out to evaluate the reproducibility of these interventions by 3 independent raters. The presence of sufficient description of the intervention in each trial to allow its reproduction elsewhere was evaluated. Descriptive analyses were carried out. Despite reference to a detailed procedures manual in the majority of trials, these manuals were not easily accessible, limiting the replication of studies. The professional expertise requirement for training implementation was not clearly described, although most studies involved trainers with moderate to extensive expertise, further limiting training reproducibility.
The Message Framing Effect on Visitors’ Environmentally Responsible Behavior: Focus on Regulatory Focus
Authors:   The Tourism Sciences Society Of Korea, Kang Young-Ae , Choi Seung-Dam
Published: May 2016

This study examines the message framing effects on visitors’ environmentally responsible behavior(ERB) focusing on the regulatory focus. A lot of studies have conducted research on the message framing effects but the results have not been consistent. As the main cause of inconsistency, the individual characteristics of the message recipients have been suggested. This paper investigated the role of the regulatory focus as an individual characteristic on the message framing effects of the visitors’ ERB. Based on relevant theories and literature, this study proposed two hypotheses. To test the hypotheses, a 2 x 2 factorial design was used. Hallasan National Park, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, was selected as an experiment site. Two experiments, using a gain and loss frame, were made. The test was conducted in a laboratory of 402 college students, assuming that they had visited Hallasan National Park. Two-way ANOVA was used to test this study. The results of the tests showed that 2 Hypotheses were generally supported. In this study, the results of the test were interpreted and future research tasks were suggested.
SIMBOLOGIA DOS SONHOS E CULTURALIDADE
Authors: Dos Santos Messias Ivan
Published: May 2016

Este artigo objetiva analisar os símbolos das manifestações oníricas destacando seu caráter terapêutico e culturalista, pois cada comunidade tem chave própria para interpretar os sonhos, a partir dos códigos de sua herança cultural. Os sonhos fornecem suportes significativos para o equilíbrio e administração da vida. Para sustentar os argumentos sobre estados oníricos, são analisados conceitos relacionados à Multiculturalidade, e alguns conceitos como arquétipo e Inconsciente Coletivo da teoria de C. Jung – indicativos de que, embora os sonhos possuam aspectos universais, temas comuns a todas as culturas – são interpretados pelas particularidades do cotidiano do sonhador e da comunidade na qual está inserido. O presente artigo acrescenta aos estudos em Psicologia que as expressões oníricas nem sempre atuam conforme as disposições internas do corpo, nem conforme os arquétipos e símbolos, haja vista que são episódios ou instantes em movimento, com muitas possiblidades criativas. Tal perspectiva solicita novas metodologias terapêuticas e interpretativas, solicita uma abordagem mais culturalista na investigação sobre os exercícios oníricos. Para a realização deste estudo, foram investigados relatos, vídeos, enunciados de pessoas participantes da cultura religiosa católico-afro-indígena no Brasil. A partir de relatos e códigos da cultura religiosa brasileira, são analisados costumes específicos e práticas simbólicas da cultura brasileira no século XXI. A relação sexual, a alimentação e a conduta cotidiana, por exemplo, são elementos culturais ligados aos estados oníricos e são analisados a partir da teologia simbólica da cultura brasileira. O estudo conclui que as imagens ancestrais e inconscientes fornecem ao organismo humano respostas para conflitos e empecilhos na trajetória de vida. Daí há necessidade de gerar novas pesquisas, a fim de conhecer mais rigorosamente os estados oníricos.
Developing a simulation program for classic and updated Hodgkin and Huxley's voltage clamp experiments
Authors:   , Reyes-Lazalde A.
Published: May 2016

Hodgkin and Huxley´s works were the starting point for generating mathematical models for explaining, reproduce the experimental results and predict the behavior of voltage-sensitive ion channels in the axon. The high costs of these experiments avoid its implementation in teaching degree. An educational alternative is virtual experiments using computer simulations. In this work, the development of a simulator that reproduces step by step the classic experiments of Hodgkin and Huxley on the conductance of voltage-dependent channels in squid giant axon is presented. The simulator was developed in Visual Basic language, ver 5.0 for Windows environment. It consists of four modules: (1) ionic currents simulation; (2) classical Hodgkin and Huxley´s experiments; (3) current version model; (4) action potentials. It comprises connecting interface screens that allow simulate and compute the values of the variables associated with the channel conductance.The user can perform an unlimited number of virtual experiments that will facilitate the understanding of the subject.
Comparison of two Motion Capture Systems by means of joint Trajectories of human gait
Authors:   , Bravo M. D. A.
Published: May 2016

Currently, the most common methods for proper capture of human movement in three dimensions require a laboratory environment and setting markers, accessories or sensors to the body segments. However, the high cost of this equipment is a limiting factor in diverse environments. Motion capture systems such as Microsoft KinectTMpresent an alternative approach to motion capture technology. In this paper, two motion capture systems are compared by means of joint trajectories and anthropometric measurements of a person in a normal gait cycle. The first is accurate trading system that uses markers (ViconTM), and the second is Microsoft KinectTM camera. Both systems were evaluated in order to compare the geometric difference and the RMS error between the joint human walking paths obtained for each of the systems. The results show a greater variance in anthropometric measures and joint trajectories for Kinect, although this system is inexpensive and easy to use and install, cannot be used for precise kinematicanalysis of human walking.
Respiratory rate detection by a time-based measurement system
Authors:   , Sifuentes E.
Published: May 2016

This paper proposes a system that converts a time-modulated signal from a resistive sensor into a digital signal with the goal to estimate the respiratory rate of a subject. To detect breathing, a known method based on a nasal thermistor, which detects temperature changes near the nostrils, is used. In this work, the thermistor mounted in a Wheatstone bridge, forms a RC circuit which is connected directly to a microcontroller, without using any analog circuit or analog-digital converter. Thus, whenever the subject breathes, it causes a fractional change in resistance x (Δ R/R0) on the thermistor, and this produces a time-modulated signal that is directly digitized with the microcontroller. Measurements were made on 23 volunteers, obtaining changes of x > 0.01. The temperature resolution was 0.2 °C, and the time response was 0.8 s, mainly limited by the thermistor properties; these features were enough to obtain a well-defined waveform of the breathing, from which was easy to estimate the respiratory rate by a compact, low cost and low power consumption system. Unlike interface circuits based on the voltage or current amplitude, with this kind of interface, the self-heating of the sensor is avoided since the thermistor does not require any voltage or bias current.
Experimental support system for visual recognition and object nomination
Authors:   , Rodríguez Dueñas W. R.
Published: May 2016

A wide variety of stimuli or objects such as drawings or photographs are used in cognitive perceptual and language rehabilitation. However, the presentation of objects in three dimensions, due to the visual richness, facilitates the identification and could support the rehabilitation process. Objective. Design an experimental setup to determine the extent to which the modality of presentation of objects affects the visual recognition of objects. Materials and methods. A low-cost experimental system was designed in order to show the stimulus in three ways: images, videos and real objects. Eighty objects were selected and variables as manipulability, age of acquisition, familiarity, visual complexity, agreement on the label and lexical frequency were controlled. A pilot study was conducted using the system in five healthy participants and the reaction time to identify objects was measured. Results. The findings reveal that the differences in reaction times between the modalities of presentation support the influence of the mode of presentation in object recognition. Conclusions. The volume object properties could allow the exploration of characteristics that the photographs would not have. This may be why the reaction time to identify real objects or videos was lower. Low-cost alternatives for the visualization and object recognition are valuable in cognitive-perceptual and language rehabilitation.
Comparative in vitro study of the bond strength on dentin of two sealing cements: BC-SEALER and AH-PLUS
Authors:   , Carrillo Varguez A.
Published: May 2016

Gutta-percha with a sealer cement has been used for many years as a fill for root canal therapies, new materials and techniques have been recently developed that could increase the success rate of endodontic treatments. It is important to compare materials that are used today, with those that are coming to the market, which possesses considerable advantages that may well increase the rate of successful treatments. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the adhesion properties of a new bioceramic sealer: EndoSequence® BC SealerTM using BC Points. For this, the following techniques were used: Single cone obturation and lateral condensation with AH-Plus. The results demonstrated differences between the groups of AH-Plus and BC-Sealer. On the bond strength that was applied in the different thirds of the root canal, the sealer cement BC-Sealer proved to be the best adhesion material in all thirds of the root canal being significantly more noticeable in the apical third. The two sealants are effective root canal adhesives, used properly, any of there may grant an acceptable result
A influência da cultura e do julgamento profissional sobre a contabilidade: uma análise sob o ponto de vista dos preparadores da informação em Portugal
Authors: Marcelino Manuela , Albuquerque Fábio Henrique Ferreira de , Quirós Joaquín Texeira , Justino Maria Do Rosário Fernandes
Published: May 2016

As normas emitidas pelo International Accounting Standard Board (Iasb) são normas baseadas em princípios, as quais delegam ao julgamento profissional a decisão em matérias contabilísticas a partir dos conceitos existentes nas referidas normas, com implicações no relato financeiro. O objetivo do presente estudo passa por analisar a influência da cultura sobre o julgamento profissional, através da análise da existência de diferenças significativas relativamente às decisões em torno da divulgação ou reconhecimento de passivos e ativos, bem como validar (ou não) a classificação atribuída por Gray (1988) a Portugal, no que respeita aos valores contabilísticos do conservadorismo e do sigilo. Nesse sentido, foram analisados os conceitos previstos na Norma Contabilística e de Relato Financeiro (NCRF) 21, intitulada Provisões, Passivos Contingentes e Ativos Contingentes. A partir da distribuição de um questionário aos preparadores da informação, do qual resultou uma amostra de 408 profissionais, foi possível identificar, por meio de técnicas estatísticas bivariadas, diferenças significativas na perceção dos profissionais em torno da divulgação e do reconhecimento de passivos e ativos, verificando-se uma tendência mais fortalecida para a divulgação ou o reconhecimento de passivos. Relativamente aos valores do conservadorismo e do sigilo, e a partir de técnicas estatísticas multivariadas, foi possível constatar um maior grau de conservadorismo como valor contabilístico em Portugal, bem como a existência de uma associação entre os referidos valores. Pretende-se que este estudo desperte a atenção de organismos normalizadores relativamente à importância dos aspetos relacionados com a informação divulgada no relato financeiro, particularmente quando está em causa o julgamento profissional
Desempenho financeiro e divulgação de informações sobre recursos humanos: uma análise das empresas do IBRX – 100
Authors: Souza Gustavo Henrique Costa , Félix Júnior Luiz Antônio , Lagioia Umbelina Cravo Teixeira , Araújo João Gabriel Nascimento de
Published: May 2016

A pergunta de pesquisa que norteou esse estudo foi: Qual a relação entre o processo de divulgação de informações sobre recursos humanos e o desempenho financeiro das companhias? A pesquisa foi desenvolvida com as empresas que compõem o IBrX-100. Todos os relatórios que serviram de subsídio a este estudo dizem respeito unicamente ao ano de 2013. O processo de divulgação de informações sobre recursos humanos foi analisado por meio da metodologia adotada por Mamun (2009). Foi utilizada a técnica estatística de regressão múltipla, com o intuito de auxiliar na interpretação dos dados, baseando-se na perspectiva do cross–section (corte transversal). As variáveis escolhidas para este trabalho foram Rentabilidade (REN); Volume de Vendas (VV) e Lucro Antes de Juros, Impostos, Depreciação e Amortização (EBITDA). Foi encontrado que as empresas analisadas apresentaram um baixo índice de divulgação de informações sobre recursos humanos. Contudo, diante das variáveis levantadas para este estudo, pode-se concluir que há uma relação entre o processo de divulgação de informações sobre recursos humanos e o desempenho financeiro das companhias quando este for representado por Volume de Vendas e EBITDA ¬- haja vista que a Rentabilidade não demonstrou ter relação de significância nesta análise. Os achados, em geral, corroboram outras pesquisas já realizadas sobre a temática.
Os benefícios pessoais da pós-graduação stricto sensu: uma análise na percepção de mestres em contabilidade
Authors: Barth Tiago Guimarães , Ensslin Sandra Rolim , Borgert Altair
Published: May 2016

Níveis mais altos de instrução geram benefícios econômicos maiores, segundo a teoria do Capital Humano. Os benefícios pessoais, para o mestrado, são importantes, pois podem ser utilizados como evidências para tomada de decisão do candidato ao curso, do governo e do gestor do próprio curso. O objetivo geral é avaliar o benefício da pós-graduação stricto sensu, no âmbito pessoal, segundo a percepção de seus egressos. O levantamento, limitado a mestres egressos respondentes da Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, avalia as situações de benefícios com auxílio de coeficientes de variação. Os benefícios financeiros variaram de 0,54 até 9,65 salários mínimos mensais, com média ponderada de 3,19 salários mínimos mensais. Houve variação significativa na renda após o curso para 43,48% dos mestres. O mestrado gerou benefício financeiro efetivo apenas em três circunstâncias: mestres que possuem também o doutorado; mestres com cargos públicos que remuneram mais por possuir títulos; e mestres que auferiam rendas baixas antes do mestrado e hoje atuam somente na docência.
Informações Financeiras Ambientais: diferença entre o nível de disclosure entre empresas brasileiras
Authors: Ferreira Janaína Da Silva , Rover Suliani , Ferreira Denize Demarche Minatti , Borba José Alonso
Published: May 2016

As questões relativas ao meio ambiente e à sustentabilidade têm motivado interesses da comunidade acadêmica e das organizações. O modelo de sociedade atual é permeado pela produção e consumo excessivos, o que vem agravando a relação do homem com a natureza. É um fato que a sociedade, para sua subsistência, necessita da fabricação de produtos e execução de serviços, porém, sabe-se também que fabricar produtos e prover serviços impactam o meio ambiente. O impacto é diferenciado conforme a atividade que é desenvolvida. No Brasil, a Lei nº 10.165/2000 dispõe sobre a Política Nacional do Meio Ambiente e classifica as empresas segundo o impacto ambiental que causam. Esta pesquisa analisou o disclosure voluntário das informações financeiras ambientais em empresas brasileiras, classificadas em setores com diferentes impactos ambientais. Para tanto, foi investigada as Demonstrações Financeiras Padronizadas das empresas que compõem o índice IBRX-50, carteira de maio a agosto de 2014, nos anos de 2011, 2012 e 2013. A métrica classificou as informações financeiras ambientais, distribuindo os dados em 7 categorias e 30 subcategorias. A categoria mais evidenciada é a de investimentos ambientais, com 58% das informações divulgadas. O maior valor monetário apresentado foi na categoria de passivos e contingências ambientais, com R$259,84 bilhões. Os resultados demonstram que há diferença no disclosure de informações financeiras ambientais se comparados à quantidade de sentenças divulgadas com o número de subcategorias evidenciadas. O teste não paramétrico e a análise de conteúdo mostraram que, nos anos analisados, as empresas com alto impacto ambiental divulgam mais informações financeiras ambientais.
A influência das avaliações de fornecedores na rescisão de contratos de serviços de exploração e produção de petróleo e gás no Brasil
Authors: Pinto Cleison Antonio , Monte-Mor Danilo Soares , Pinto Jedson Pereira
Published: May 2016

A literatura de avaliação de desempenho de fornecedores aponta que a prévia identificação de contratos considerados insatisfatórios pode se revelar crucial para a manutenção de uma empresa, especialmente em setores com alto risco operacional, ambiental e com investimentos significativos, como é o caso do setor de exploração de petróleo e gás. Embora considerada importante, a rescisão contratual tem sido pouco estudada no segmento de petróleo brasileiro, em decorrência do baixo número de firmas que atuam no setor e da restrição de acessos às informações dessas empresas. O presente artigo tem como objetivo diminuir essa lacuna ao analisar quais critérios de avaliação de serviços mais influenciam as rescisões contratuais no setor brasileiro de exploração e produção de petróleo e gás. Para tanto, foram analisadas, via regressões logit, as avaliações dos contratos de serviços encerrados no período de 1/1/2006 a 31/12/2014 por uma unidade de negócio que atua na exploração e produção de petróleo e gás localizada no Brasil. No banco de dados resultante, constaram-se 273 contratos que contemplam todas as especialidades de serviços da atividade, com um total de 19.613 avaliações. Os resultados indicam que os critérios Prazo e Logística são os que apresentam maior influência nas rescisões contratuais das atividades do setor. Além disso, ao segregar-se as análises por especialidades, verificou-se que diferentes especialidades possuem demandas distintas e, por conseguinte, diferentes modelos contratuais. Tais resultados corroboram empiricamente as discussões teóricas presentes na literatura acerca da importância do cumprimento das obrigações contratuais, especialmente com relação aos prazos negociados.