Renata Melo Oliveira

Abstract
This paper proposes an innovative composite indicator to evaluate Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). The methodology proposed involves two stages. The first stage specifies an optimization model, based on Directional Distance Functions, to obtain a relative measure of CSR at the firm level that can guide performance improvements. This model allows distinguishing the firms with best practices from those with potential for improvement and can suggest targets for future achievements. In the second stage, a goal programming model is proposed to identify a common set of weights for the key performance indicators, enabling the evaluation of all firms on common grounds. These weights are used to construct an industry ranking, which is based on the distance of firms to a common frontier of technology that respects the trade-offs determined for the industry. An illustrative application of the method proposed is presented at the end of the paper. The indicators considered in the evaluation were selected according to international standards and guidelines applicable to mining firms. All dimensions of the Triple Bottom Line (economic, environmental and social) were taken into account. The results and their managerial implications are discussed with the objective of promoting the awareness of CSR levels in the mining activity, supporting the sustainable development of industrial activities.

Abstract
Aim: We investigated the demographic, anthropometric, clinical, biochemical and behavioural factors associated with children and adolescents who missed breakfast. Methods: This 2012 cross-sectional study was carried out in the city of Juiz de Fora, Brazil, with a sample of 684 students: 191 children aged 7-9 and 493 adolescents aged 10-14. Data on demographic, physical activity and breakfast consumption were based on a 24-hour recall record and a three-day dietary record. Weight, height, body fat, waist circumference and blood pressure were also measured. Finally, samples were collected for analysis of blood total cholesterol, low-density and high-density lipoproteins, triglycerides and glucose. The statistics are presented as prevalence ratios (PR) with 95% confidence (95% CI) intervals. Results: Missing breakfast was more common among adolescents than children (30% versus 22%) and among girls of all ages than among boys (33% versus 22%). It was also associated with children, but not adolescents, with increased levels of diastolic blood pressure (PR 5.6, 95% CI 1.8-17.4), total cholesterol (PR 1.5, 95% CI 1.2-1.9) and low-density lipoprotein (PR 2.1, 95% CI 1.5-2.9). Conclusion: Missing breakfast was more common among adolescents and females and associated with increased levels of diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein in children.

Abstract
Assessing eco-efficiency of companies is important to ensure the creation of wealth without compromising the needs of future generations. This work aims to extend the eco-efficiency concept by including in the assessment new features related to environmental benefits and environmental burdens. This concept is implemented using an innovative Directional Distance Function model, which searches for improvements in the magnitude of the indicators and in the composition of the resources consumed. This framework can help firms to become more sustainable by replacing non-renewable inputs with "greener" alternatives. We present an empirical application to large mining companies. Different scenarios regarding managerial priorities for adjustments to firms' economic and environmental indicators are explored. The results obtained and their managerial implications are discussed in the context of mining firms activity.

Abstract
Assessing firms' Eco-efficiency is important to ensure they succeed in creating wealth without compromising the needs of future generations. This work aims to extend the Eco-efficiency concept by including in the assessment new features related to environmental benefits. Eco-efficiency is evaluated using a DEA model specified with a Directional Distance Function. The new methodology proposed in this paper is illustrated with an application to world-class mining companies, whose results and managerial implications are discussed.

Abstract