bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Melissopalynological Characterization of North Algerian Honeys
Authors: Nair Samira , Meddah Boumedienne , Aoues Abdelkader
Published: March 2013

A pollen analysis of Algerian honey was conducted on a total of 10 honey samples. The samples were prepared using the methodology described by Louveaux et al., that was then further adapted by Ohe et al. The samples were subsequently observed using light microscopy. A total of 36 pollen taxa were discovered and could be identified in the analyzed honey samples. Seventy percent of the studied samples belonged to the group ofmonofloral honeys represented by Eucalyptus globulus, Thymus vulgaris, Citrus sp. and Lavandula angustifolia. Multifloral honeys comprised 30% of the honey samples, with pollen grains of Lavandula stoechas (28.49%) standing out as the most prevalent. Based on cluster analysis, two different groups of honey were observed according to different pollen types found in the samples. The identified pollen spectrum of honey confirmed their botanical origin.
Monoterpenoids from Acanthopanax sessiliflorus Fruits
Authors: Yang Chun-Juan , Wang Zhi-Bin , Song Pu-Yuan , Xiao Yang , Meng Yong-Hai , Wang Yan-Yan , Jiang Hai , Kuang Hai-Xue
Published: March 2013

Three new acyclic monoterpenoids named (2E)-3,7-dimethylocta-2,6-dienoate-6-O-a-L-arabinopyranosyl-(1®6)-b-D-glucopyranoside (1), (3Z,6E)-3,7-dimethyl-3,6-octadiene-1,2,8-triol (2) and (6E)-7-methyl-3-methylene-6-octene-1,2,8-triol (3) were isolated from Acanthopanax sessiliflorus fruits, along with three known monoterpenoid compounds. The structures of the new compounds were determined by means of extensive spectroscopic analysis (1D, 2D NMR and HRESIMS) and chemical methods.
A UPLC-MS/MS Method for Qualification of Quercetin-3-O-β- D-glucopyranoside-(4®1)-α-L-rhamnoside in Rat Plasma and Application to Pharmacokinetic Studies
Authors: Yao Xin , Zhou Guisheng , Tang Yuping , Li Zhenhao , Su Shulan , Qian Dawei , Duan Jin-Ao
Published: March 2013

A sensitive and accurate ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass (UPLC-MS/MS) method was developed for the determination of quercetin-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside-(4→1)-α-L-rhamnoside (QGR) in rat plasma using rutin as internal standard. Chromatographic separation was achieved on a Acquity BEH C18 column (100 mm × 2.1 mm, 1.7 μm) with a gradient elution of acetonitrile and 0.10% formic acid (v/v) at a flow rate of 0.4 mL/min. QGR and rutin were detected using electrospray negative ionization mass spectrometry in the multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. The method demonstrated good linearity and did not show any endogenous interference with the QGR and rutin peaks. This method was successfully applied to a pharmacokinetic study of QGR in rats after intravenous (20 mg/kg) and oral (40 mg/kg) administration, and the results showed that the compound was poorly absorbed, with an absolute bioavailability of approximately 3.41%.
Area-Based Mapping of Defoliation of Scots Pine Stands Using Airborne Scanning LiDAR
Authors: Vastaranta Mikko , Kantola Tuula , Lyytikäinen-Saarenmaa Päivi , Holopainen Markus , Kankare Ville , Wulder Michael , Hyyppä Juha , Hyyppä Hannu
Published: March 2013

The mapping of changes in the distribution of insect-caused forest damage remains an important forest monitoring application and challenge. Efficient and accurate methods are required for mapping and monitoring changes in insect defoliation to inform forest management and reporting activities. In this research, we develop and evaluate a LiDAR-driven (Light Detection And Ranging) approach for mapping defoliation caused by the Common pine sawfly (Diprion pini L.). Our method requires plot-level training data and airborne scanning LiDAR data. The approach is predicated on a forest canopy mask created by detecting forest canopy cover using LiDAR. The LiDAR returns that are reflected from the canopy (that is, returns > half of maximum plot tree height) are used in the prediction of the defoliation. Predictions of defoliation are made at plot-level, which enables a direct integration of the method to operational forest management planning while also providing additional value-added from inventory-focused LiDAR datasets. In addition to the method development, we evaluated the prediction accuracy and investigated the required pulse density for operational LiDAR-based mapping of defoliation. Our method proved to be suitable for the mapping of defoliated stands, resulting in an overall mapping accuracy of 84.3% and a Cohen’s kappa coefficient of 0.68.
Cartilage Tissue Formation from Dedifferentiated Chondrocytes by Codelivery of BMP-2 and SOX-9 Genes Encoding Bicistronic Vector
Authors: Cha Byung-Hyun , Kim Jae-Hwan , Kang Sun-Woong , Do Hyun-Jin , Jang Ju-Woong , Choi Yon Rak , Park Hansoo , Kim Byung-Soo , Lee Soo-Hong
Published: March 2013

Articular cartilage, when damaged by degenerative disease or trauma, has limited ability for self-repair. Recently, many trials have demonstrated that gene therapy combined with tissue engineering techniques would be a promising approach for cartilage regeneration. Bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) is an important signal for upregulation of osteogenesis and chondrogenesis of stem cells. Sex-determining region Y box gene 9 (SOX-9) has also been reported as one of the key transcription factors for chondrogenesis. We hypothesized that codelivery of BMP-2 and SOX-9 genes would result in improved efficiency of recovery of normal chondrogenic properties in dedifferentiated chondrocytes. To this aim, we constructed a bicistronic vector encoding the BMP-2 and SOX-9 genes linked to the “self-cleaving” 2A peptide sequence. After gene delivery to dedifferentiated chondrocytes using a microporator transfection system, we confirmed over 65% delivery efficiency of the BMP-2 and SOX-9 genes. According to RT-PCR analysis and Alcian blue staining, simultaneous delivery of BMP-2/SOX-9 resulted in significantly increased expression of chondrogenesis-related markers (type II collagen and aggrecan) and GAG matrix formation compared with individual delivery of the BMP-2 or SOX-9 gene. Six weeks after in vivo transplantation, BMP-2/SOX-9 genes also showed a significant increase in cartilage formation compared with the BMP-2 or SOX-9 gene. These results demonstrate that codelivery of two chondrogenic lineage-determining genes can enhance normal chondrogenic properties of dedifferentiated chondrocytes followed by improved cartilage formation.
Plasticity of Cu nanoparticles: Dislocation-dendrite-induced strain hardening and a limit for displacive plasticity
Authors: Tolvanen Antti , Albe Karsten
Published: March 2013

The plastic behaviour of individual Cu crystallites under nanoextrusion is studied by molecular dynamics simulations. Single-crystal Cu fcc nanoparticles are embedded in a spherical force field mimicking the effect of a contracting carbon shell, inducing pressure on the system in the range of gigapascals. The material is extruded from a hole of 1.1–1.6 nm radius under athermal conditions. Simultaneous nucleation of partial dislocations at the extrusion orifice leads to the formation of dislocation dendrites in the particle causing strain hardening and high flow stress of the material. As the extrusion orifice radius is reduced below 1.3 Å we observe a transition from displacive plasticity to solid-state amorphisation.
Iddin-Dagan, un gestionnaire à Ṭâbatum
Authors: Ziegler Nele
Published: March 2013

Iddin-Dagan était l’intendant ( abu bîtim ) de Ṭâbatum au début du règne de Zimrî-Lîm. Dans la présente contribution, trois lettres de cet homme au roi de Mari sont publiées (A [A.322+M.6597], B [A.2992] et C [A.2157]) ainsi qu’une lettre d’Aqba-ahum (D [A.600]). Ces lettres traitent de la gestion des travaux agricoles et des ressources humaines et matérielles manquantes pour faire face aux travaux. Dans la lettre A, la mainmise du gouverneur de Qaṭṭunân sur les réserves de Ṭâbatum est dénoncée.
A pudûm rotation list from Tell Taban and the cultural milieu of Ṭabatum in the post-Hammurabi period
Authors: Yamada Shigeo
Published: March 2013

On a déjà pu observer que l’organisation sociale et administrative de Ṭabatum et de ses voisins du Bas Habur et du Moyen Euphrate resta inchangée de l’époque de Zimri-Lim à celle suivant Hammurabi. Désormais, nous pouvons voir que les habitudes culturelles semblent également s’être maintenues dans la région. Cet article traite différents aspects du milieu culturel de Ṭâbatum après l’époque de Hammurabi en se servant d’une liste de rotation concernant le rite du pudûm de Tell Taban comme document-clé (Tab T05B-39). La proximité culturelle de Ṭabatum avec Terqa, cité principale du royaume, peut être observée sur de nombreux points, comme le formulaire juridique, les mesures de capacité ou le calendrier utilisés dans les textes. Certains éléments peuvent être considérés comme l’héritage culturel du royaume amorrite de Mari. La liste de rotation du rite pudûm semble montrer la responsabilité collective pour l’organisation d’un rite royal mensuel, auquel aurait été soumise la population locale de Ṭabatum. Dans cette contribution, la liste de rotation de Ṭabatum ainsi que des documents de Mari et d’autres villes de Mésopotamie sont examinés pour comprendre le contenu du rituel du pudûm , sa signification religieuse et l’utilisation de ce terme dans des contextes différents.
Le commerce entre Imâr et Mari sur l'Euphrate
Authors: Durand Jean-Marie
Published: March 2013

Présentation d’un texte inédit de Mari (A.2052+A.3875), lettre de Yatar-Kabkab, qui apporte des renseignements sur les tarifs douaniers ( miksum ) en vigueur sur la portion de l’Euphrate contrôlée par Mari, depuis Imâr (= Emar). On constate différents problèmes dans ces relations commerciales jugées trop onéreuses par les gens d’Imâr, alors que le roi de Mari ne fait qu’appliquer les tarifs de tout temps en vigueur. Le document renseigne en outre sur l’approvisionnement en grain de la ville de Mari au début du règne de Zimrî-Lîm, une époque très difficile.
Beno Rothenberg (Frankfurt, Alemania 1914 - Ramat Gan, Israel 2012). In memoriam
Authors: Hunt Ortiz Mark A.
Published: March 2013

El pasado día 13 de marzo de 2012 falleció el Prof. Beno Rothenberg, pionero y destacado investigador en el campo de la arqueometalurgia. Uno de los fundadores del IAMS, en su labor en España destaca el trabajo realizado en la provincia de Huelva y, más concretamente, en las minas de Rio Tinto. Su influencia ha sido fundamental para la implantación y desarrollo de la investigación de la producción minera y metalúrgica del pasado en España, un legado que se extiende hasta hoy día a través de la materialización de sus proyectos y de la actividad de numerosos investigadores que colaboraron y se formaron con él.
Current Perspective of Semiconductor and its Composites with Unusual Surfaces for the Use of Photocatalysis: Review
Authors: Selvamani T. , Anandan Sambandam
Published: March 2013

Recently, numerous semiconducting materials and its composites are studied for their photocatalysis applications. These materials having different size, shape and controlled morphology in micro, meso and nanoscale exhibits various important surface features having remarkable applications in photocatalytic degradation of toxic pollutants, hydrogen production and adsorbent for wastewater treatment. However different methods are followed to synthesis semiconductors, metal supported/loaded semiconductors, heterostructures, graphene based semiconductors and other newer materials. In addition, the surface morphologies of these materials and composites for its photo catalytic processes can be explained. Finally the photophysical properties of semiconductor and composite materials with unusual texture will be summarized.
Recent Development on Titania Based Mixed Oxide Photocatalysts for Environmental Application under Visible Light
Authors: Aman Noor , Mishra Trilochan
Published: March 2013

In the recent years most of the studies are confined to the mixing of ZrO2, SiO2, WO4 or ceria with titania in different composition so as to stabilize anatase phase, maintain high surface area and increase visible light absorption for better photocatalytic activity. Method of synthesis also helps in effective doping and enhancing surface area of the resultant materials. Nonmetal doping of oxide semiconductor materials facilitates the visible light application of photocatalysis. Based on the recent literature this review elaborately discuss on the development of titania based mixed oxide catalyst with or without different doping for visible light application. In addition this review deals with critical analysis of these materials towards photocatalytic oxidation of organics and reduction of pollutants like toxic metal ions and nitrates.
Environmental Application of Photocatalysis
Authors: Chaturvedi Shalini , Dave Pragnesh N.
Published: March 2013

Recent interest and studies in environmental photo-chemistry, in natural photosynthesis, and chemical methods for solar energy transformations has contributed greatly to our knowledge and understanding of the various phenomena related to both photo-chemistry and catalysis. As an emerging nanotechnology come together with the chemical mechanisms of photo-catalysis, the photo-catalytic nanoparticle titanium dioxide offers a new meaning of remediation and degradation on volatile organic compounds in the aqueous and airs streams. In this chapter we discuss about application of photocatalysis in environment like biological contamination, air purification, water disinfection, hazardous waste remediation, water purification, self-clean buildings, deodorizing, anti-bacterial action, anti-fogging resolving cleaning action etc.
Photocatalytic and Photoelectro-Chemical Study of Ferrites for Water Splitting Applications: A Comparative Study
Authors: Dom Rekha , Borse Pramod H.
Published: March 2013

This article presents a comparative study on the synthesis and characterization of the binary and ternary ferrites for photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical applications. The importance and role of ferrite photocatalysts is discussed in context to the visible-light active photocatalyst applicationviz.for hydrogen productionvia.water-splitting. It also demonstrates that computational-exploration of any material system is key to identify, and achieve visible-light active photocatalysts.
Nano-Photocatalysts in the Treatment of Colored Wastewater - A Review
Authors: Divya Neetu , Bansal Ajay , Jana Asim K.
Published: March 2013

In the present scenario, the problem of water pollution is remarkable. The need to maintain clean water for both flora and fauna has become a major, even a critical concern. A large number of organic substances are introduced into the natural water system from various sources such as industrial effluents, agricultural runoff and chemical spills. Textiles industries specifically pollute the water sources due to the random use and discharge of various types of dyes. It may significantly affect photosynthetic activity in aquatic life and their presence in drinking water constitutes a potential human health hazard. It is therefore essential either to remove the dyes from water or to treat them in such a way so as to minimize their effects on the environment and also to decolorize the water. Various research works on different processes are reviewed and discussed in the present article. It has been observed that the advanced oxidation processes are used widely to degrade the organic compounds in water. Photocatalytic systems are effective for the degradation of many unwanted complex organic compounds through the use of efficient nanophotocatalysts activated under ultra-violet (UV) irradiation.
Photocatalysts for Solar-Induced Water Disinfection: New Developments and Opportunities
Authors: Wang Wan Jun , Yu Jimmy C. , Wong Po Keung
Published: March 2013

Recent years have seen a surge of interest in the application of solar energy for water disinfection by using nanostructured photocatalysts elaborately designed and fabricated. Photocatalysis has its unique advantage for utilizing sunlight to drive the disinfection process. The highly reactive oxygen species (ROS) serve as the main oxidants and are capable of inactivating microorganisms, including viruses, bacteria, spores and protozoa. This chapter presents an overview of current research activities that center on the preparation, characterization and application of highly efficient photocatalysts for water disinfection under both UV and visible light irradiation. It is organized into two major parts. One is the development of TiO2-based photocatalysts including surface noble metal modified, ion doped, dye-sensitized, and composite TiO2. The other part is the introduction of new types of photocatalysts and advanced technologies that have recently fascinated the scientific community. Particular attention is given to the pioneering fields such as graphene-based photocatalysts, plasmonic-metal nanostructures and naturally occurring photocatalysts. Finally, we conclude with a discussion of what major advancements are needed to move the field of photocatalytic water disinfection forward.
Superplastic Forming of Friction Stir Processed Magnesium Alloys for Aeronautical Applications: A Modeling Approach
Authors: Carrino Luigi , Squillace Antonino , Paradiso Valentino , Ciliberto Stefano , Montuori Mario
Published: March 2013

Magnesium alloys are attractive for lightweight structural applications in the transportation industry because of their low density and high specific strength and stiffness [1]. With an ultrafine-grained microstructure, they exhibit superplasticity at relatively low temperatures and high strain rates [2]. Friction stir processing (FSP) was used to obtain a microstructure with ultrafine grains in the magnesium alloy AZ31. Microstructures obtained using different rotational speeds are studied. Free bulge forming of the FS processed AZ31 sheets are carried out to evaluate the superplastic behaviour [3]. The model and the evolution equations are, then, implemented into a commercial FE code and different simulations are conducted to correlate the experimental and numerical results for the model validation [4]. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of the microstructure on the superplastic behaviour using free bulge forming and FE simulations.
Cutting Edge: Rapid Boosting of Cross-Reactive Memory CD8 T Cells Broadens the Protective Capacity of the Flumist Vaccine
Authors: Slütter Bram , Pewe Lecia L. , Lauer Peter , Harty John T.
Published: March 2013

Memory CD8 T cells recognizing conserved proteins from influenza A virus (IAV), such as nucleoprotein, have the potential to provide protection in individuals who lack the proper neutralizing Abs. In this study, we show that the most potent CD8 T cell–inducing influenza vaccine on the market (Flumist) does not induce sufficient numbers of cross-reactive CD8 T cells to provide substantial protection against lethal nonhomologous IAV challenge. However, Flumist-primed CD8 T cells rapidly acquire memory characteristics and can respond to short-interval boosting to greatly enlarge the IAV-specific memory pool, which is sufficient to protect mice from nonhomologous IAV challenge. Thus, a current vaccine strategy, Flumist, may serve as a priming platform for the rapid induction of large numbers of memory CD8 T cells with the capacity for broad protection against influenza.
Exacerbated Autoimmunity in the Absence of TLR9 in MRL.FaslprMice Depends onIfnar1
Authors: Nickerson Kevin M. , Cullen Jaime L. , Kashgarian Michael , Shlomchik Mark J.
Published: March 2013

TLR9 suppresses TLR7-driven pathogenesis in the MRL.Faslpr murine model of systemic lupus erythematosus, but the mechanisms by which TLR7 promotes and TLR9 prevents disease in this and other lupus models remain unclear. Type I IFNs (IFN-I) have also been implicated in the pathogenesis of lupus both in patients and in several murine models of disease, but their role in MRL.Faslpr mice is controversial. Using MRL.Faslpr mice genetically deficient in a subunit of the receptor for IFN-I, Ifnar1, we show that IFN-I contribute significantly to renal disease in this model. Ifnar1 had no effect on anti-nucleosome or anti-Sm autoantibody titers, but instead regulated anticytoplasmic and anti-RNA specificities. Moreover, Ifnar1 deficiency prevented the exacerbation of clinical disease observed in Tlr9-deficient animals in this lupus model. Thus, IFN-I signaling is an important mediator of lupus pathogenesis and anti-RNA Ab production that is dysregulated in the absence of Tlr9.
Demand for healthcare in India
Authors: Purohit Brijesh C.
Published: March 2013

In a developing country like India, allocation of scarce fiscal resources has to be based on a clear understanding of how investments in the heath sector are going to affect demand. Three aspects like overall healthcare demand, consumer decisions to use public and/or private care and role of price/quality influencing poor/rich consumer’s decisions are critical to assessing the equity implications of alternative policies. Our paper addresses these aspects through examining the pattern of healthcare demand in India. Data from the National Family Health Survey are used to model the healthcare choices that individuals make. We consider what these behavioral characteristics imply for public policy. This analysis aims to study disparities between rural and urban areas from all throughout India to five Indian states representing three levels of per capita incomes (all-India average, rich and poor). Results evidence that healthcare demand both in rural and urban areas is a commodity emerging as an essential need. Choices between public or private provider are guided by income and quality variables mainly with regard to public healthcare denoting thus a situation of very limited alternatives in terms of availing private providers. These results emphasize that existing public healthcare facilities do not serve the objective of providing care to the poor in a satisfactory manner in rural areas. Thus, any financing strategy to improve health system and reduce disparities across rich-poor states and rural-urban areas should also take into account not only overcoming inadequacy but also inefficiency in allocation and utilization of healthcare inputs.
Geology, Stevenson Ridge (northeast part), Yukon
Authors: Ryan J J , Zagorevski A , Williams S
P , Roots C , Ciolkiewicz W , Hayward N , Chapman J B
Published: March 2013

The northeastern Stevenson Ridge map sheet (parts of NTS 115-J, I, P and O) is underlain by Paleozoic to Paleogene rocks that locally host Cu-Au porphyry and Au mineralization. The southwestern part of the area is dominated by the mid-Cretaceous Whitehorse
plutonic suite which forms the backbone of the Dawson Range Mountains. The north side of the Dawson Range comprises rocks typical of the Yukon-Tanana terrane, including a belt of Permian Klondike schist (metavolcanic rocks), Permian Sulphur Creek plutonic suite and pre-Devonian Snowcap assemblage
metasedimentary rocks. The northeast side of the area is dominated by the Mississippian Simpson Range plutonic suite that is intruded by the Triassic Pyroxene Mountain suite and early Jurassic Aishihik suite. The Mississippian to Jurassic rocks are thrust over the Snowcap assemblage along the
post-Triassic Yukon River thrust. Late Cretaceous and younger faults occur throughout the area but have only modest offsets.
Occurrence of Tetracampos ciliotheca and Proteocephalus glanduligerus in Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822) collected from the Vaal Dam, South Africa
Authors: Madanire-Moyo Grace , Avenant-Oldewage Annemariè
Published: March 2013

Cestodes are parasitic flatworms that live in the digestive tract of vertebrates as adults and often in the liver, muscle, haemocoel, mesentery and brain of various animals as larval stages. To identify the cestodes infecting Clarias gariepinus Burchell, 1822 (sharptooth catfish) in the Vaal Dam, a total of 45 host specimens were collected with the aid of gill nets between October 2011, January and April 2012. The fish were sacrificed and examined for cestode parasites. Two adult cestodes, Tetracampos ciliotheca Wedl, 1861 (prevalence 86.7%, mean intensity = 15, n = 45) and Proteocephalus glanduligerus (Janicki, 1928) (prevalence 51.1%, mean intensity = 5, n = 45) were found in the intestines of the catfish. Both T. ciliotheca and P. glanduligerus are new locality records. There were statistically insignificant differences in the infection of the male and female C. gariepinu. Fish with standard length ranging from 40 cm – 54 cm (≥ 3 years) had the highest prevalence and mean intensity while those ranging from 10 cm – 24 cm (< 1 year) had the lowest prevalence and mean intensity for both cestodes. The study highlights the importance of changing feeding habits of C. gariepinus with age on the prevalence and mean intensity of the two gastrointestinal cestode parasites.
Entrepreneurial orientation and corporate governance structures at the firm level in the South African oil and gas industry
Authors: Molokwu Vincent B. , Barreria Jose , Urban Boris
Published: March 2013

Orientation: Corporate governance systems (CGS) have been observed as one of the most important structures and mechanisms that regulate the relationships between executives and shareholders. By having well-defined and established CGS, company board members and executives are able to shape company vision and increase managerial commitment towards formulating strategies that espouse an entrepreneurial orientation (EO). Firms with high levels of EO tend to be innovative and encourage creative initiatives in new products and technology developments. Research purpose: In an emerging economy such as South Africa, one of the primary goals of an organisation is growth and good governance, which can be achieved through wellgoverned structures and continuous innovation in the face of challenges. This study identified potential links between the multidimensional constructs of CGS and EO at the firm level in the South African oil and gas industry.Motivation for the study: One of the greatest challenges faced by organisations when implementing CGS is to ensure compliance.Research design, approach and method: Board members and senior decision-makers were surveyed in the South African oil and gas industry, using a structured questionnaire. A series of correlational analyses were used to determine the strength of relationships between the dimensions of EO and CGS.Main findings: By drawing extensively on existing theory on EO, this study found that the different dimensions of CGS have a significant and positive relationship with each of the EO dimensions – innovation, risk-taking and proactiveness.Practical/managerial implications: Corporate boards supportive of entrepreneurship must provide appropriate reward systems, top management support, explicit goals and appropriate organisational values which signal to employees that entrepreneurial behaviour action is desirable. Practitioners should scrutinise their governance structures in their organisations to ensure an alignment with EO practices.Contribution/value-add: Generally, research on EO and governance in Africa as a whole may be considered as valuable, as very few empirical studies have been previously conducted which focus on the nexus of CGS and EO. The study is one of the first to conduct empirical research on EO and CGS in an emerging market and unique industry context – the South African oil and gas industry.
Environmental Health Resilience
Authors: Kelley Tim
Published: March 2013

Global Human Populations

The capacity of the Earth's environment to support increasing and expanding human populations has been questioned at least for hundreds of years, but never more than in the mid to late 20th Century and early 21st Century. Global human population now exceeds seven billion and continues to increase at an unprecedented rate. Estimates of future (2050) human populations on Earth range from a low of about 7.4 billion to a high of 10.6 billion (“United Nations World Population to 2300”, 2004 accessed at http://www.un.org/esa/population/publications/longrange2/WorldPop2300final.pdf ). Current human populations already place an extreme burden on global environmental resources, including air, water and food quality as well as increasing challenges related to human waste management and disease prevention, control and treatment. In fact, some have proposed that humans have entered the “anthropocene”, an age in which the global environment is dominated by human activities ( http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/11/121101131609.htm ). Climate change and expanding human populations contribute to increased risk of transmission of infectious and non-infectious disease. Developing nations with huge human populations such as China and India are benefitting from increased economic globalization, allowing for increased availability of personal luxuries such as automobiles, which in turn results in increased pollution and further depletion of natural resources such as global oil reserves. Increasing availability to global resources also may contribute to global conflict over environmental resources such as oil, water and food. In the United States, 2013 was the hottest year on record. Average global temperatures are also on the rise, with Australia being another prime example. Globally, 2012 was the tenth hottest year on record since data collection began in 1880 ( http://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/sotc/global/2012/13 ). Many people are now starting to question the ability of human populations to continue to grow, and perhaps even for humans continue to exist on the planet without significant changes in the way that we interact with our global environment. Others point out that dire predictions of the fragility of humanity have been made for thousands of years and that humans have continued to survive and even grow in spite of these challenges.
Strongyloidiasis: An Emerging Infectious Disease in China
Authors: Wang Chunmei , Xu Jiabao , Zhou Xiaohong , Li Juan , Yan Guiyun , James Anthony A. , Chen Xiaoguang
Published: March 2013

Since the first case of strongyloidiasis reported in China in 1973, there have been 330 confirmed cases as of 2011. The present study conducted a meta-analysis on 106 cases for which detailed information on clinical symptoms, diagnosis, and outcome was available. Most (63%) cases were from the past decade. Immunocompromised patients and those given cortical hormones accounted for 68% of the cases, and case-fatality rate was 38%. General clinical symptoms included abdominal pain (53%), diarrhea (46%), fever (40%), and vomiting (39%). The parasite positivity rate in feces, sputum, and urine by microscopic diagnosis was 75%, 24%, and 8%, respectively, and gastrointestinal endoscopy or other biopsy detection rates were 17%. A lack of specific clinical manifestations makes early diagnosis and correct treatment difficult. Strongyloidiasis is an emerging disease in China, and public and clinical awareness needs to be raised to improve prevention and control.
Recruitment Rates in Workplace Physical Activity Interventions: Characteristics for Success
Authors: Ryde Gemma C. , Gilson Nicholas D. , Burton Nicola W. , Brown Wendy J
Published: March 2013

Objective.

To conduct a systematic review to assess recruitment rates in workplace physical activity (PA) intervention studies and describe characteristics of studies with high recruitment rates.

Data Source.

Electronic and manual searches were conducted.

Study Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria.

Workplace PA intervention studies that reported the number of employees invited to participate and the number who responded were included.

Data Extraction.

Studies with recruitment rates of ≥ 70% were categorized as high with the remaining studies (< 70%) used as comparison. Key study characteristics were assessed.

Data Synthesis.

An approach called positive deviance was used to identify the extent to which study characteristics were unique to high recruitment rate.

Results.

Seventy-six percent of studies failed to report recruitment rates (n= 30 included for review). Studies with high recruitment rates (n = 8) tended to have longer study duration (mean 1.6 years) and target smaller cohorts of employees (mean n = 199) than comparison studies (3.9 months; n = 1241). For recruitment strategies and intervention components of high studies, involvement of employees was driven by the organization, with PA interventions provided as part of the working day in paid time.

Conclusion.

These findings suggest a potential to improve recruitment through targeting small cohorts of employees, incorporating PA as a long-term strategy, facilitating organizationally driven employee involvement, and providing PA interventions during paid time.
El Bienestar Psicológico en el trabajo y su vinculación con el afrontamiento en situaciones conflictivas
Authors: Marsollier Roxana Graciela , Aparicio Miriam Teresita
Published: March 2013

El presente artículo aborda el constructo Bienestar Psicológico desde el análisis del contexto laboral. La psicología positiva permite una mirada diferente de la realidad laboral procurando enfatizar los aspectos positivos del trabajo cotidiano y fortalecer los recursos de que disponen los trabajadores para afrontar las situaciones conflictivas. Nuestra investigación tuvo por objetivo conocer el nivel de desgaste laboral y de Bienestar Psicológico de los sujetos a partir del análisis de factores educacionales, organizacionales y psicosociales. En esta comunicación rescatamos desde una mirada positiva y comprehensiva, los alcances del Bienestar Psicológico en el escenario laboral y su especial vinculación con las Estrategias de Afrontamiento, frente a un contexto laboral cada vez más exigente, incierto y estresante. Utilizamos una amalgama de metodologías cuantitativas y cualitativas en orden a conocer y comprender la realidad estudiada, a partir de sujetos insertos en la Administración Pública del Gobierno de Mendoza, Argentina.  Los resultados invitan a seguir profundizando en el aporte positivo de las teorías de base. Desde un plano aplicado, los hallazgos pueden derivar en programas tendientes a fortalecer el desarrollo de las estrategias de afrontamiento positivas.
Revisitando algunas herramientas de evaluación sistémica
Authors: Escalante Gómez Eduardo
Published: March 2013

Los procedimientos de evaluación en profesiones como psicología, trabajo social, entre otras, surgen dentro del contexto histórico del modernismo empiricista. Se asume su objetividad, rigor de medición, neutralidad valórica, y experticia científica. En el contexto del constructivismo, varios de los fundamentos de la evaluación tradicional se cuestionar. Este tipo de crítica no significa amenazar determinados tipos de procedimientos, sino buscar una profundización de ellos. El replanteamiento de herramientas de evaluación como el genograma y ecomapa, sugiere explorar potenciales novedosos para las prácticas de evaluación en las profesiones que utilizan este tipo de procedimiento.
Desarrollo y análisis psicométricos de un inventario de autoeficacia para inteligencias múltiples en niños argentinos
Authors: Perez Edgardo , Lescano Carina , Heredia Daniel , Zalazar Paola , Furlan Luis , Martinez Milagros
Published: March 2013

Este artículo incluye una serie de estudios instrumentales que describen el desarrollo y validación preliminar de una medida de autoeficacia basada en la teoría social-cognitiva y la teoría de las inteligencias múltiples, cuya población meta son niños del nivel educativo  primario superior. El análisis factorial de las respuestas de 360 participantes sugirió el desarrollo de un instrumento de 40 ítemes y ocho escalas congruentes con la teoría de las inteligencias múltiples, con valores aceptables de consistencia interna. Estudios adicionales de validación externa demostraron que algunas de las escalas predicen el rendimiento académico de los participantes en asignaturas teóricamente correspondientes, y que las diferencias relacionadas con género en las puntuaciones de las escalas son consistentes con los antecedentes de la literatura.
Rigor y calidad metodológicos: Un reto a la investigación social cualitativa
Authors: Cornejo Cancino Marcela , Salas Guzmán Natalia
Published: March 2013

En la investigación en ciencias sociales, la discusión acerca de la pertinencia de procesos que permiten asegurar la calidad de los resultados obtenidos, resguardando el rigor en la metodología y el tratamiento de los datos, ha cobrado gran relevancia en la última década. Dentro de la investigación social cualitativa, esta discusión ha estado presente, especialmente al considerar la pertinencia de los criterios de rigor, lo cual reenvía necesariamente a la necesidad de revisar los fundamentos epistemológicos que sostienen las prácticas llevadas a cabo en los procesos investigativos. El presente artículo recorre analíticamente distintas propuestas actuales respecto de procesos de rigor en la investigación social cualitativa, como una forma de insistir en la necesidad de ser coherentes con la opción epistemológica y metodológica de este tipo de investigación. Se propone repensar el lugar del investigador y sus subjetividades como una clave en el desafío de otorgar rigor y calidad a los procesos y resultados de investigación.
"Las Galderas": Logros y contradicciones de una investigación-acción comunitaria sostenible, entre pescadores ribereños del Bajo Orinoco, Venezuela
Authors: D'Aubeterre Luis Alberto
Published: March 2013

Se analizan los logros y contradicciones del trabajo realizado entre cuatro centros de investigación y estudiantes de Postgrado (2005-2009), en comunidad venezolana de pescadores orinoquenses. El objetivo fue crear condiciones comunitarias para desarrollar, administrar y  beneficiarse de proyectos eco-socio-económicos sostenibles transformando condiciones de vida. Los proyectos desarrollados fueron: Piscicultura, Ecoturismo, Viveros, Artesanía y Educación Ambiental, desarrollados en grupos (6-14 personas), formados durante 2 ½   años. Resultados: cooperativa piscícola  (proyecto: producción 30 ton./año de pescado); cooperativa de viveristas  (proyecto: reforestación de humedales del Orinoco); legalización de tenencia de tierras; formación técnica de 40 personas; organización de Comunidad Educativa (construcción de escuela y pre-escolar); cambio de actitudes pro-ambientalistas; creación del Consejo Comunal y emergencia de nuevo liderazgo femenino. Las principales contradicciones son la inconcreción de proyectos, incongruencias  institucionales y en la gestión comunitaria.
Tiempo mínimo-conocimiento suficiente. La cuasi-etnografía sociotécnica en psicología social
Authors: Silva Ríos Carlos Enrique , Burgos Dávila César Jesús
Published: March 2013

En psicología social como en diferentes disciplinas de las ciencias sociales,  la práctica etnográfica se caracteriza por la participación del investigador en la vida cotidiana de la gente durante un largo período de tiempo. Heredado de la tradición, ha sido dominante el criterio de permanencia prolongada para realizar un trabajo de campo que pueda ser considerado etnográfico. Distanciándonos de lo que exige la tradición etnográfica, proponemos que en un tiempo mínimo es posible generar un conocimiento suficiente. Tomamos como punto de partida la propuesta minoritaria de la cuasi-etnografía y nuestra práctica como investigadores, asumiendo la Teoría del Actor-Red y la descripción densa como puente teórico-metodológico hacia la producción de conocimiento en el marco de una temporalidad mínima.
La globalización del cuidado y sus cadenas. Un estudio de caso
Authors: Mora Enrico , León Francisco José
Published: March 2013

En este texto analizamos una cadena de externalización del cuidado y su conversión en servicio desde Barcelona (Cataluña, España) hasta Manila (Filipinas), identificando los cambios de posición de género para las mujeres implicadas: desde las empleadoras catalanas hasta las trabajadoras domésticas filipinas. Así mismo, señalamos los límites ambiguos y difusos que se establecen entre las relaciones de cuidado y servicio bajo relaciones mercantiles. El trabajo de campo se realizó tanto en Barcelona y cercanías como en Manila y los lugares de origen de las personas entrevistadas (en Filipinas), mediante entrevistas biográficas, entrevistas a personal experto, análisis documental y estadístico. Para el objeto de este artículo nos apoyamos principalmente en las entrevistas realizadas a trabajadoras domésticas filipinas, a empleadoras catalanas de trabajadoras domésticas, y a personal experto sobre migración, género y trabajo doméstico de Cataluña y de Filipinas. Las técnicas de análisis usadas han sido el análisis de contenido y el análisis del discurso.
La cotidianidad de lo familiar y las habilidades de los niños
Authors: Migliorini Laura
Published: March 2013

Las rutinas y los rituales son un medio para organizar la cotidianidad y devienen el modo mediante el cual las familias explicitan creencias compartidas e identidades comunes.La creación y el mantenimiento de rutinas y  rituales resulta un elemento central de la vida familiar y constituye una estructura de sostén para el desarrollo del niño. Lo cotidiano puede considerarse un factor de protección promotor del bienestar de la familia, que incrementa el sentido de seguridad, pertenencia, estabilidad, cohesión y satisfacción, reforzando las habilidades sociales en los niños. Nuestro objetivo fue analizar la relación entre rutina, rituales familiares y las habilidades de los niños. Los participantes fueron 107 núcleos familiares a quienes se les administró el “Cuestionario sobre los rituales familiares, Inventario de las rutinas familiares, Autopercepción del rol parental”. Los docentes informaron, además, de las habilidades del niño mediante el “Cuestionario sobre las fortalezas y las debilidades”. Los resultados muestran que no sólo la ausencia, sino que también el exceso del comportamiento rutinario  y de la importancia atribuida al mismo, puedan representar una disfuncionalidad en la regulación afectiva del niño.
Aspiraciones y expectativas ocupacionales de los pescadores artesanales merluceros de la región del Bío Bío, Chile
Authors: Baquedano Marjorie , Rosas Juan Carlos
Published: March 2013

Este artículo expone un acercamiento a las pautas de movilidad ocupacional de los pescadores dedicados a la extracción de la merluza a través de un análisis cuantitativo de sus aspiraciones y expectativas ocupacionales.  La Metodología consideró el uso de datos secundarios recolectados a través de una encuesta administrada a 302 pescadores aplicada en caletas de la Región del Bio Bio, Chile. Los resultados indican que existe un componente identitario que define las pautas de movilidad ocupacional de los pescadores en términos de sus aspiraciones ocupacionales y las expectativas que los Pescadores proyectan para sí mismos y sus hijos. A un nivel subjetivo, la dimensión tradicional del oficio de pescador artesanal se ejemplifica en la importancia que tiene el trabajo como eje constituyente de la identidad de los individuos, en la permanencia en el sector, en la transmisión intergeneracional del oficio, en la creación de empresas familiares en torno a la pesca y en la negación a cambiar de ocupación.
Los jóvenes de familias tareferas de los barrios periurbanos: ¿La generación del cambio?
Authors: Roa María Luz
Published: March 2013

A partir de mediados de la década del ’90 en la provincia de Misiones, Argentina, se generó un proceso de expulsión de asalariados agrícolas residentes en el campo. Dicha población se concentró en la periferia de las ciudades intermedias de la provincia, y actualmente depende del trabajo temporal en la cosecha de yerba mate -tarefa- y de ocupaciones ocasionales en la ciudad. En el marco de estos procesos, los/as jóvenes constituyen la primera generación que se socializó en tales territorios. Este estudio busca comprender las transformaciones en las estrategias de reproducción familiar de los/as jóvenes de familias de cosecheros/as de yerba mate que residen en las áreas periurbanas de la ciudad de Oberá. Para evaluar estos procesos, se adopta una metodología triangular, combinando datos provenientes de una encuesta a hogares periurbanos de Oberá e información cualitativa procedente de trabajos de campo de tipo etnográfico. Los resultados muestran sustanciales diferencias entre los aportes actuales y los aquellos que los jóvenes realizaban cuando residían en el agro –generación de sus padres y madres-, las cuales varían fundamentalmente según el género y los tipos familiares.
Familias rurales y sus procesos de transformación: Estudio de casos en un escenario de ruralidad en tensión
Authors: Castro Ríos Ana
Published: March 2013

El mundo rural ha tenido transformaciones a partir de los procesos de modernización y globalización. Sobre la realidad de las familias rurales poco se conoce y en general se hacen aplicaciones, como si tuvieran la misma realidad de las familias urbanas. Este estudio buscó comprender las prácticas de la esfera íntima de las familias rurales hoy en día y cómo estas se ven afectadas por los cambios económicos, sociales y políticos  de una sociedad  con fuerte valoración de los procesos de modernización. El diseño cualitativo fue de estudio de casos, con entrevistas en profundidad a siete familias de las Comunas de Teno, Romeral y Rauco de la Región del Maule, Chile. Las familias debían  tener  presencia de tres generaciones, de manera de conocer las visiones de familia y los cambios ocurridos en ésta intergeneracionalmente. Los resultados indican que el desfase entre los cambios culturales a nivel social y las transformaciones estructurales de la familia, es mayor en las familias rurales.
Movimientos sociales rurales y problemática medioambiental: La disputa por la territorialidad
Authors: Bowen Sofia , Medel Felipe Fabrega , Medel Rodrigo
Published: March 2013

Las profundas transformaciones socio productivas, específicamente aquellas asociadas al impacto de políticas económicas de carácter global, repercuten en los llamados movimientos sociales rurales. El estudio se orienta en comprender los cambios que estos movimientos han experimentado, haciendo especial énfasis en el tránsito histórico de la acción colectiva rural en este nuevo escenario. Se plantea la hipótesis de que la lucha por la tierra, reconfigurada esta vez desde una óptica valórica y simbólica, continúa siendo un factor primario entre las demandas que dan origen a estos movimientos sociales. La emergencia de los nuevos movimientos sociales rurales, se redefine como una disputa por la territorialidad, es decir, la tierra cargada de significado e historia. La reflexión se centrará en los movimientos rurales medioambientales en el marco de conflictos mineros ya que éstos vienen justamente a problematizar temáticas referentes al territorio y la identidad.
Hacia la construcción de un modelo comprensivo de análisis de la “situación de inmigración” de mujeres sudamericanas en Chile
Authors: Méndez Caro Leyla , Cárdenas Castro Manuel
Published: March 2013

Este trabajo presenta la construcción de un modelo comprensivo de análisis de la “situación de inmigración” a partir de la investigación cualitativa. El desarrollo del estudio contempló tres etapas: Modelo inicial (ensamblaje de material teórico-práctico), modelo emergente intermedio (recolección y producción de información, reconstrucción y análisis) y modelo emergente final  (teorización). El proceso de producción y análisis de información se llevó a cabo mediante la articulación entre relatos de vida y la Teoría Fundamentada. Así, se trabajó sobre el tratamiento de relatos en tanto “categorías de situación” para la producción de teoría. La saturación teórica en la construcción de categorías se reflejó en cuatro dimensiones: Tensiones de género, Lugar/no lugar, Asimilación/integración y Tensiones de mercado. Las principales conclusiones dieron cuenta de la potencia analítica derivada de la complementariedad entre relatos de vida y relecturas de la Teoría Fundamentada. Asimismo, la importancia de resguardar criterios de validez en la construcción de modelo como triangulación, dependencia, confirmabilidad y saturación. Finalmente, se planteó como desafío ampliar el modelo desde un nivel conceptual a uno empírico desde la intervención psicosocial.