bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematic review of the literature on vitamin A and memory
Authors: Fragoso Yara Dadalti , Campos Niklas Söderberg , Tenrreiro Breno Faria , Guillen Fernanda Jussio
Published: July 2016

ABSTRACT Background: Over the last 30 years, a variety of studies reporting the effects of vitamin A on memory have been published. Objective: To perform a rigorous systematic review of the literature on vitamin A and memory in order to organize evidence-based data on the subject. Methods: Four authors carried out the systematic review in accordance with strict guidelines. The terms "vitamin A" OR "retinol" OR "retinoic acid" AND "memory" OR "cognition" OR "Alzheimer" were searched in virtually all medical research databases. Results: From 236 studies containing the key words, 44 were selected for this review, numbering 10 reviews and 34 original articles. Most studies used animal models for studying vitamin A and cognition. Birds, mice and rats were more frequently employed whereas human studies accounted for only two reports on brain tissue from autopsies and one on the role of isotretinoin in cognition among individuals taking this medication to treat acne. Conclusion: Vitamin A may be an important and viable complement in the treatment and prevention of Alzheimer's disease. Clinical trials are imperative and, at present, there is no evidence-based data to recommend vitamin A supplementation for the prevention or treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
Rehabilitation of language in expressive aphasias: a literature review
Authors: Fontoura Denise Ren da , Rodrigues Jaqueline de Carvalho , Carneiro Luciana Behs de Sá , Monção Ana Maria , Salles Jerusa Fumagalli de
Published: July 2016

ABSTRACT Objective: This paper reviews the methodological characteristics of studies on rehabilitation of expressive aphasia, describing the techniques of rehabilitation used. Methods: The databases Medline, Science Direct and PubMed were searched for relevant articles (January 1999 to December 2011) using the keywords Expressive / Broca / Nonfluent Aphasia, combined with Language or Speech Rehabilitation / Therapy / Intervention. Results: A total of 56 articles were retrieved describing rehabilitation techniques, including 22 with a focus on lexical processing, 18 on syntax stimulation, seven with the aim of developing speech and nine with multiple foci. Conclusion: A variety of techniques and theoretical approaches are available, highlighting the heterogeneity of research in this area. This diversity can be justified by the uniqueness of patients' language deficits, making it difficult to generalize. In addition, there is a need to combine the formal measures of tests with measures of pragmatic and social skills of communication to determine the effect of rehabilitation on the patient's daily life.
Apathy, cognitive function and motor function in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Hernandez Salma S. Soleman , Vital Thays Martins , Garuffi Marcelo , Stein Angélica Miki , Teixeira Camila Vieira Ligo , Costa José Luiz Riani , Stella Florindo
Published: July 2016

Abstract The aims of this study were to characterize the presence of apathy in patients with AD, determine the relationship between apathy, motor function and cognitive function, and to verify differences among patients stratified by level of apathy in relation to cognitive and motor abilities. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted of 37 patients with AD. The following tests were used: MoCA, the Frontal Assessment Battery, Verbal Fluency, Clock Drawing Test, Andreotti & Okuma Battery Tests, Sit and Reach, Resistance of Upper Limbs - AAHPERD Battery Test, Sit and Lift Chair and the Apathy domain of the Neuropsychiatric Inventory. After verifying the normality of the data distribution, comparisons were made using Student's t-test and the U Mann Whitney test; relationships were also assessed using Pearson's and Spearman's correlation coefficients. All analyses were considered to be statistically significant at a p-value of 0.05. Results: 46% of participants in this study showed mild symptoms of apathy. Significant and weak associations were found (p=0.04) between apathy and the attention domain on the MoCA and between apathy and the Walk Test. Analysis of differences in cognitive and motor functions according to participants' level of apathy revealed no significant differences for any of the variables. Conclusion: Apathy was reflected in attention and the Walk Test, suggesting these variables may be related to cognitive and functional decline in AD patients.
Neuropsychological and quality of life assessment in patients with Parkinson's disease submitted to bilateral deep brain stimulation in the subthalamic nucleus
Authors: Heluani Alessandra Shenandoa , Porto Fábio Henrique de Gobbi , Listik Sergio , Campos Alexandre Walter de , Machado Alexandre Aluizio Costa , Cukiert Arthur , Oliveira Jr José Oswaldo de
Published: July 2016

ABSTRACT Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has been widely used to control motor symptoms and improve quality of life in patients with Parkinsons disease (PD). Recently, DBS in the subthalamic nucleus (STN) has become the preferred target for patients with mixed motor symptoms. Despite resultant motor and quality of life improvements, the procedure has been associated with cognitive decline, mainly in language skills, and also with psychiatric symptoms. Objective: To evaluate the influence of DBS in the STN on cognition, mood and quality of life. Methods: We studied 20 patients with PD submitted to DBS in the STN from May 2008 to June 2012 with an extensive battery of cognitive tests including memory, language, praxis, executive functions and attention assessments; the Parkinson's Disease Quality of Life Questionnaire (PDQ-39); and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD), were applied both before and after the surgery. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 17.0 and results compared using the paired Student's t test. Results: A total of 20 patients with pre and post-operative assessments were included. A statistically significant improvement was found in total score and on subscales of mobility, activities of daily living and emotional well-being from the PDQ-39 (P=0.009, 0.025, 0.001 and 0.034, respectively). No significant difference was found on the cognitive battery or mood scale. Conclusion: DBS in the SNT improved quality of life in PD with no negative impact on cognitive skills and mood.
Cognitive impairment in patients with clinically isolated syndrome
Authors: Anhoque Carolina Fiorin , Biccas Neto Laurentino , Domingues Simone Cristina Aires , Teixeira Antônio Lúcio , Domingues Renan Barros
Published: July 2016

ABSTRACT Cognitive abnormalities have been extensively studied in Multiple Sclerosis (MS). However, little is known about the cognitive involvement in patients with Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS). Objective: This study aimed to investigate cognitive impairment in patients with CIS compared with healthy subjects. Methods: 18 CIS patients and 18 controls were subjected to the Wechsler memory scale, Rey Auditory Verbal Learning, Rey Complex Figure, Paced Auditory Serial Addition, Digit Span, verbal fluency, Stroop color card test, D2, and Digit Symbol tests. Results: CIS patients had significantly worse performance on the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT) 2 seconds (P=0.009) and on verbal fluency tests (P=0.0038) than controls. Conclusion: CIS patients had worse cognitive performance than controls on neuropsychological tests evaluating executive functioning.
Reassessment of the dementia diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease in patients enrolled on the cholinesterase inhibitors dispensation program
Authors: Piovesana Magda Cristina Flaitt Sanches , Garcia Fúlvio Rogério , Carrasco Kátia G. , Tognola Waldir Antonio
Published: July 2016

ABSTRACT Objective: Reassess the diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease (AD) in patients treated with anti-cholinesterases dispensed by High Cost Drug stores (Exceptional Drugs Program). Methods: A prospective study to reassess the diagnosis of probable Alzheimer's Disease was conducted (AD). The patients were submitted to the protocol of dementia investigation at the Neurogeriatric Outpatient Clinic of the Teaching Hospital de Base de São José do Rio Preto. Groups were classified using the criteria of the National Institute of Neurologic and Communicative Diseases and Vascular Cerebral Accident and Alzheimer Disease Related Association (NINCDS-ADRDA). The study was completed by applying the Disability Assessment for Dementia (DAD). The significance level was set at 5%. Results: 106 patients participated, selected randomly from a group of 390 patients contacted when receiving their medication at the High Cost Drug store. Two groups were formed: the first, containing 52 patients who fulfilled criteria for AD (FC Group); and a second, with 54 patients not fulfilling criteria (NFC). The FC Group had older age, worse performance on the Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE) and poorer performance on the DAD. Also, treatment time was longer and drugs doses higher in the FC Group. Conclusion: Study results showed a high number of patients using anti-cholinesterases that did not fulfill the diagnosis criteria for probable AD. Comparison of the two groups revealed different behavior between them, corroborating the hypothesis of inadequate inclusion of the NFC Group patients in the Exceptional Drugs Program.
Basal ganglia lesions in subacute sclerosing panencephalitis
Authors: Almeida Kelson James , Brucki Sonia Maria Dozzi , Duarte Maria Irma Seixas , Pasqualucci Carlos Augusto Gonçalves , Rosemberg Sérgio , Nitrini Ricardo
Published: July 2016

ABSTRACT The parieto-occipital region of the brain is the most frequently and severely affected in subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE). The basal ganglia, cerebellum and corpus callosum are less commonly involved. We describe a patient with SSPE confirmed by neuropathology based on brain magnetic resonance imaging showing extensive basal ganglia involvement and no significant involvement of other cortical structures. Though rarely described in SSPE, clinicians should be aware of this involvement. SSPE should be kept in mind when changes in basal ganglia signal are seen on brain magnetic resonance imaging with or without involvement of other regions of the human brain to avoid erroneous etiological diagnosis of other pathologies causing rapidly progressive dementia.
Adult-onset adrenoleukodystrophy presenting as a psychiatric disorder: MRI findings
Authors: Galvão Antonio Cézar Ribeiro , Machado-Porto Gislaine Cristina Lopes , Porto Fábio Henrique de Gobbi , Lucato Leandro Tavares , Nitrini Ricardo
Published: July 2016

ABSTRACT A 35-year-old, previously healthy man presented psychiatric symptoms lasting four years, receiving treatment with neuroleptics. One year later he evolved with gait disequilibrium. After a further six months, cognitive symptoms were characterized with rapid evolution to a profound demented state. MRI showed signal changes in cerebral white matter and very long-chain fatty acids were detected in blood.
A tridimensional finite element approach to model a tunnel with shotcrete and precast concrete
Authors: Fiore P. V. , Maghous D. B. , Campos Filho A.
Published: July 2016

ABSTRACT This paper describes a numerical simulation with 3D finite elements of a tunnel. The viscoplastic law of Perzyna represents the rockmass behavior. The concrete, shotcrete or precast, is modeled as a viscoelastic material through the Maxwell and Kelvin chain models. Finite element simulations are performed by incorporating subroutines for viscoelastic concrete models in the ANSYS code. The method to simulate tunnel excavations is by activating and deactivating elements in sequential steps. In the first part of the paper two validations are performed. The analytical solution and the deformation achieved on the stabilization in the ANSYS code are compared with an unlined tunnel. A lined tunnel, with an elastic and viscoplastic rockmass combined with an elastic lining, is compared with the results of the GEOMEC91 code. In the second part, it is compared the same tunnel with two different concrete lining for two chain models. Finally, it is modeled the Kielder experimental tunnel, which in situ measured data is available.
Modified mortar pad behavior in the transfer of compressive stresses
Authors: Ditz J. D. , Debs M. K. EL , Siqueira G. H.
Published: July 2016

ABSTRACT This research aims to analyze the compressive stress transfer between precast concrete elements using cement mortar pads modified with polypropylene fibers, styrene-butadiene latex and heat-expanded vermiculite. The stress transfer analyses are performed interleaving a cementbearing pad between two concrete blocks, subjecting the entire specimen to different compressive load tests. The parameters analyzed in the tests are: surface roughness (using bosses on the bonded phase of different thicknesses), compressive strength with monotonic and cyclic loadings. The main results obtained in this study are: a) the presence of pad increased the strength in 24% for thicknesses of imperfections of 0.5 mm and approximately 12% for smooth faces blocks; b) gain of effectiveness of the bearing pad when the concrete strength was reduced; c) for cyclic loading, the bearing pad increased in 48% the connections strength.
Comparative analysis of design models for concrete corbels
Authors: Araújo D. L. , Silva Neto A. P. , Lobo F. A. , Debs M. K. El
Published: July 2016

ABSTRACT The main objective of this paper is performing a comparative analysis of some design models for precast concrete corbels. For this, it was analyzed design models from Brazilian (NBR 9062) and European (EUROCODE 2) Codes and a US design handbook (PCI). Moreover, three analytical models showed in the literature are analyzed. The objective of this comparative is identifying the best design models to represent the failure load of concrete corbels by the tie yields or by the concrete crushing. Moreover, it is intended to evaluate the contribution of horizontal stirrups to resistance of concrete corbels. For this, a database was assembled from test results of concrete corbels carried out by several researchers and they are showed in the literature. The design models were applied to this database and from statistical tools, adjustments coefficients are recommended to be applied on these design models to take into account the results dispersion found in the analysis.
Adaptive procedure for camber control of forward cantilever structures
Authors: Santos M. F. L. O. , Horowitz B.
Published: July 2016

ABSTRACT In forward cantilever structures, segments are built from previous ones, therefore construction loads must be carried by the partly completed structure. As the cantilever is moved forward deformations increase and corrections must be made during the construction phase. In camber control, corrective displacements are applied to compensate for deformations. The proposed procedure assimilates topographical survey data collected at each construction stage to update the structural model by minimizing the differences between real and computed displacements. Concrete material properties are used as design variables in an optimization process that drives them to values that better represent the material actually used in construction. This is an iterative process where new data are assimilated at each new structural deformed configuration. New camber values are computed and applied to segments that will be cast in the future in order to reach the desired final design profile. The use of the procedure leads to residual displacements of no greater than 5% of the total deformation without camber.
Digital Knowledge of Kenyan Succulent Flora and Priorities for Future Inventory and Documentation
Authors: Wabuyele Emily , Kang’ethe Simon , Newton Leonard E.
Published: July 2016

Biodiversity inventory in Kenya has been ongoing for about a century and a half, coinciding with the arrival of naturalists from Europe, America, and elsewhere outside Africa. Since the first collections in the mid-to-late 1800s, there has been a steady increase of plant surveys, frequency of inventory, and discovery of new species that have considerably increased knowledge of faunal and floristic elements. However, as in all other countries, such historical biological collection activities are more often than not, ad hoc, resulting in gaps in knowledge of species and their habitats. While Kenya is relatively rich botanically, with a succulent flora of about 428 taxa, it is apparent that the list is understated owing to, among other factors, difficulty of preparing herbarium material and restricted access to some sites. This study investigated completeness of geographic knowledge of succulent plants in Kenya, with the aim of establishing species distribution patterns and identifying gaps that will guide and justify priority setting for future work on the group. Species data were filtered from the general BRAHMS database at the East African Herbarium and cleaned via an iterative series of inspections and visualizations designed to detect and document inconsistencies in taxonomic concepts, geographic coordinates, and dates of collection. Eight grid squares fulfilled criteria for completeness of inventory: one in the city of Mombasa, one in the Kulal–Nyiro complex, one in Garissa, one in Baringo, and four grid squares in the Nairobi–Nakuru–Laikipia area. Poorly-known areas, mostly in the west, north, and north-eastern regions of the country, were extremely isolated from well-known sites, both geographically and environmentally. These localities should be prioritised for future inventory as they are likely to yield species new to science, species new to the national flora, and/or contribute new knowledge on habitats. To avoid inconsistencies and data leakage, biodiversity inventory and documentation needs streamlining to generate standardised metadata that should be digitised to enhance access and synthesis.
RNA extraction using the 'home-made' Trizol substitute v1
Authors: Valach Matus
Published: July 2016

Asimple protocol for RNA extraction from various types of samples (protists, fungi, bacteria, organelles, subcellular fractions, ribosomes, etc.). Compared tothe commercial Trizol® procedure, it makes use ofgenerally available chemicals without the need for columns,thusallowing concurrent extraction oftranscripts of all sizes (including RNAs <200 nt). Small circular DNA molecules (up to ~9 kbp) will also be efficiently isolated. The procedure is based on apreviously published protocol by Rodríguez-Ezpeleta et al. (DOI:10.1007/978-1-60327-136-3_3).
Primer extension assay and sequencing by dideoxynucleotide incorporation on RNA templates v1
Authors: Valach Matus
Published: July 2016

The identity of a nucleotide or the presence of a bulky modification or strand break in an RNA can be determined by several approaches. When the 3′ region of the analyzedRNA is known, extending a (radio)labeled primer by reverse transcription and analyzing the reaction productsusing denaturingpolyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and subsequent (radio)imaging allows mapping of cDNA chain-termination sites. (Based on the design of the experiment, these can be, for example, astrand break,5′ end, pause-inducing site, or site of dideoxynucleotide incorporation.) This procedure is adapted from the previously published protocol by Walker and Lorsch (DOI: 10.1016/B978-0-12-420037-1.00020-8).
Leaders’ Communication Pattern: A Predictor of Lecturers’ Job Performance in Nigeria
Authors: Fashiku Christopher Oluwatoyin
Published: July 2016

The study investigated influence leaders’ communication pattern has on lecturers’ job performance in Kwara State Colleges of Education, Nigeria. Using the descriptive survey method, the population of the study was made up of all lecturers and students of the existing three state government owned Colleges of Education in the state. Five hundred respondents were sampled from the Colleges using proportional simple random sampling technique to select 200 academic staff and 300 students from the Colleges. Four research hypotheses were formulated while two validated instruments titled “Provosts’ Communication Styles Descriptive Questionnaire”(PCSDS) and “Teachers’ Effectiveness Descriptive Questionnaire” (TEDQ) were designed to elicit information from both lectures and students. Pearson product moment correlation coefficient statistics was used in analyzing the collected data in order to validate the assumptions. The results of the investigation revealed that: a significant relationship existed between leaders’ democratic communication pattern and lecturers’ job performance in the Colleges with calculated r value 0.718 > r table value 0.195, leaders’ Autocratic communication pattern did not significantly relate to lecturers job performance in the Colleges cal r value 0.163 < cal t val0.195, leaders’ laissez faire pattern of leaders’ communication not significantly related to lecturers’ job performance with r value 0.165 < t value 0.195 and that leaders’ communication pattern significantly related to lecturers’ job performance with r value 0.790 > t value 0.195, all at 0.05 significant level and 498 degrees of freedom. The study concluded that leaders’ pattern of communication significantly enhanced lecturers job performance in Kwara State Colleges of Education, Nigeria and recommended that leaders should as much as possible engage in democratic communication pattern in order to facilitate the attainment of the stated aims and objectives of the institutions.
Autopercepción del ejercicio de liderazgo ético de dirigentes universitarios
Authors: Unda Sofía
Published: July 2016

.There is a clear shortage in academic research on ethical leadership, specially at an educational context, whatever its level. Therefore, it has been detected the need for an specific research on how university managers perceive themselves exercising their ethical leadership in such a context. In this sense, this work offers definite results obtained through the research developed in April 2013 with 31 university managers working in Social Councils, University Boards as well as other university teams, both at public and private national universities all over Spain.       These results have shown that their self-perceptions are basically supported by a possitive conception of their decisions. In fact, 20 out of 29 university managers interviewed have declared being totally aware of the integrity of their decision-making processes. They had been previously interviewed through semi-structured surveys whose contents have been analysed according to the ATLAS.ti.7 Programme.Finally, by means of a mixed-analytical strategy previous codes were defined and structured, in order to organize the answers given by the university managers, whilst new codes were emerging from the discussion. As a result, five general codes defining the appropiate categories for university managers self-perception were analyzed in detail: a) possitive self-perception,  b) possitive but partial self-perception, c) negative self-perception/cooperative, d) negative self-perception/leader and e) unable to self-perception.
Liderazgo estudiantil y ramas de conocimiento:Un estudio aproximativo en la Universidad de Granada
Authors: El Homrani Mohammed , Conde Lacárcel Alfonso , Ávalos Ruiz Inmaculada
Published: July 2016

Presentamos una investigación descriptiva realizada en la Universidad de Granada que tiene como objetivo principal: Conocer, describir, analizar y valorar las percepciones de los líderes estudiantiles universitarios sobre sí mismos, según los diferentes Centros y cargos, y realizar propuestas de mejora que fomenten la participación de los estudiantes en los procesos electorales y en la vida política universitaria. Hemos llevado a cabo un diseño no experimental, y realizado la recogida de información por medio de cuestionarios, entrevistas semi-estructuradas y grupos de discusión sobre una muestra intencional de 73 representantes y líderes estudiantiles pertenecientes a las distintas ramas de conocimiento a la que hemos podido acceder. El análisis de los datos obtenidos nos ha permitido obtener una descripción de los distintos cargos de representación estudiantil y la vida política en la Universidad de Granada, así como establecer futuras líneas de mejora en base a las percepciones,  expectativas, desarrollo de sus funciones y valoraciones de los propios representantes.  Como conclusiones a este estudio, proponemos la necesidad de fomentar la participación y el liderazgo estudiantil a través del reconocimiento de créditos de libre configuración, y certificaciones por actividades de gestión y representación del alumnado, así como una mejora de las infraestructuras para realizar sus labores representativas.
Book Review. Alan M. Blankstein, Pedro Noguera, with Lorena Kelly. (2016). Excellence through equity. Five principles of courageous leadership to guide achievement for every student. Alexandria, VA, ASCD.
Authors: Salvans Astrid
Published: July 2016

Book review of the book Excellence through equity
The water relations of two tropical rainforest species (Virola surinamensis and Eperua falcata): Is Virola unusual as previously reported?
Authors: Barigah Têtè Sévérien , Aussenac Gilbert , Baraloto Christopher , Bonal Damien , Cochard Hervé , Granier André , Guehl Jean-Marc , Huc Roland , Sobrado Mari A. , Tyree Melvin T.
Published: July 2016

The objective of this study was to examine the water relations and hydraulic architecture and vulnerability to cavitation in Virola surinamensis and V. michelii and to compare to similar measurements in Eperua falcata. In several previous reports Virola was seen to have a rather narrow range of xylem pressure potentials (Ψx) near zero in the course of a wet-season day while having water fluxes quite close to Eperua. We tested the hypothesis that the narrow range of Ψx might be consistent with very high hydraulic conductivities of stems, roots and shoots and high vulnerability to cavitation in Virola compared to Eperua. When this hypothesis proved false we concluded that the previous determinations of Ψx might be wrong in Virola due to latex. We re-examined the determination of Ψx in Virola by the pressure chamber technique and compared results to determination of Ψleaf by the thermocouple psychrometer technique and found that the likely range of Ψx are more negative than previously reported. Problems concerning the determination of Ψx in species with latex are discussed.
Evidence for Air-Seeding: Watching the Formation of Embolism in Conifer Xylem
Authors: Mayr Stefan , Kartusch B. , Kikuta S.
Published: July 2016

Water transport in plants is based on a metastable system as the xylem “works” at negative water potentials (ψ). At critically low ψ, water columns can break and cause embolism. According to the air-seeding hypothesis, this occurs by air entry via the pits. We studied the formation of embolism in dehydrating xylem sections of Juniperus virginiana (Cupressaceae), which were monitored microscopically and via ultrasonic emission analyses. After replacement of water by air in outer tracheid layers, a complex movement of air-water menisci into tracheids was found. With decreasing ψ, pits started to aspirate and the speed of menisci movements increased. In one experiment, an air-seeding event could be detected at a pit. The onset of ultrasonic activity was observed when pits started to close, and ultrasonic emission ceased at intense dehydration. Experiments clearly indicated that predictions of the air-seeding hypothesis are correct: At low ψ, pit mechanisms to prevent air entry failed and air spread into tracheids. ψ fluctuations caused complex movements of air-water menisci and pits, and at low ψ, air-seeding caused ultrasonic emissions. Main insights are presented in a video.
Vaccinium gaultherioides: Another insight into water relations of alpine dwarf shrubs
Authors: Ganthaler Andrea , Mayr S.
Published: July 2016

Dwarf shrubs exhibit different requirements for a safe and efficient water supply compared to trees due their basitonic branching and low growth height. Though, only few studies dealt with the hydraulics of this growth form. Here we report key hydraulic parameters (vulnerability to drought-induced embolism, xylem hydraulic conductivity, cell osmotic potential, potential at turgor loss point) and related wood anatomical traits for Vaccinium gaultherioides, a wide-spread species in the European Alps. The results affirm the current knowledge, by indicating a relatively risky hydraulic strategy with low hydraulic safety compared to alpine trees and osmotic properties connected to the species’ soil humidity requirements.
Let plant hydraulics catch the wave
Authors: Cochard Hervé , Torres-Ruiz José M. , Delzon Sylvain
Published: July 2016

In September 2015, INRA-Aquitaine organized the second international meeting of the Xylem group in Bordeaux.This group gathers scientists interested on structural, functional and ecological aspects of the xylem tissue in plants. The group first organized French meetings between 1999 and 20131 but turned international in 2014. For this second international event, more than 100 scientists from 17 different countries attended the meeting for 3-days. While the majority of the attendees were from the field of plant hydraulics, it is noteworthy that many participants were from different disciplines such as molecular biology, genomics, physiology, physics and ecosystem biology. This is an illustration of the dynamism and of the attractiveness of plant hydraulics. Our objective here is to stress some points that we think are important to consider in order to promote further this discipline in the future and let xylem hydraulics catch the wave.
Response to Torres-Ruiz et al., 2016, “Why do trees take more risks in the Amazon?” †
Authors: Rowland Lucy , Mencuccini Maurizio , Oliveira Rafael , Meir Patrick
Published: July 2016

Torres-Ruiz et al. (2016) commented the publication of Rowland et al. (2015). The authors reply to this comment.
El Sistema Nacional de Áreas Protegidas de Argentina
Authors: López Alfonsín Marcelo , Berra Elisabeth I
Published: July 2016

En el presente trabajo se analiza en forma pormenorizada el régimen legal concerniente al sistema nacional de áreas protegidas, teniendo principalmente en consideración las disposiciones contenidas en las antiguas leyes de áreas protegidas y el espíritu que se tuvo en miras al sancionar la Ley N° 22.351.A tal fin, se entiende imprescindible hacer hincapié en los dispositivos legales referidos a las tres categorías de protección que establece la citada norma: parques nacionales, reservas nacionales y monumentos naturales, las que, a su vez, deberán ser aggiornadas con las categorías que fueron creadas mediante decretos; tal es el caso de las reservas naturales estrictas, las reservas naturales silvestres y las reservas naturales educativas.También se torna relevante desarrollar el funcionamiento y estructura de la autoridad de aplicación, es decir, la Administración de Parques Nacionales —en adelante la APN—, toda vez que no puede soslayarse que la autarquía de esta entidad fue uno de los fundamentos que motivó la modificación de la antigua Ley de Parques Nacionales Nº 12.103, de 1934.En otro orden de ideas, se examinarán las particularidades del sistema de áreas protegidas de España. Ello por cuanto no puede sortearse la trascendental influencia que tuvo la Constitución de 1978 de este país en la reforma de 1994, específicamente en lo que a la materia ambiental respecta. Es innegable el preponderante rol que ocupa la cláusula española como fuente del artículo 41 de nuestra Carta Magna.Se hará especial hincapié en la notable descentralización legislativa y administrativa —sin duda la particularidad más importante del sistema español—. Específicamente, el régimen normativo se complementa, por un lado, con lo que se denomina la “legislación marco” de conservación de espacios naturales, y por el otro, con las restantes leyes específicas, teniendo ambas reglamentaciones igual jerarquía normativa. Si bien en un principio, el Estado español tenía jurisdicción exclusiva — y excluyente— sobre la gestión de los parques nacionales, posteriormente se establecieron competencias compartidas entre éste y las comunidades autónomas.A su vez, tampoco puede soslayarse que uno de los principales modelos para la creación de los sistemas de áreas protegidas lo constituye el Servicio Nacional de Parques de los Estados Unidos de América, dado que fue en este país donde se estableció el primer parque nacional. Se trata de un parámetro de referencia para el resto de las modalidades existentes en el Derecho comparado al momento de determinar un régimen legal para la conservación de la naturaleza, ya sea por las capacidades técnicas de ese organismo rector, por los recursos económicos con los que cuenta o bien por la extensión del sistema nacional de referencia.Palabras clave: áreas protegidas, parques nacionales, reservas naturales, monumentos naturales.
Derechos humanos como directriz de la investigación rumbo al desarrollo sostenible
Authors: Camargo Erli
Published: July 2016

El ensayo sobre los “Derechos humanos como directriz de la investigación rumbo al desarrollo sostenible”, parte de reconocer que la educación no puede sustraerse del cambio vertiginoso que impulsa la globalización en todos los aspectos de la vida moderna. Analiza la formación de los profesionales del Derecho, en Brasil, señalando las dificultades realmente existentes que la han conducido a una situación de crisis, así como las opciones —que considera retos— para revertir el formato que trata de imponerse, proyectando una sociedad más justa, más humana, desde el punto de vista de los empobrecidos. En esa perspectiva, plantea la posibilidad de conciliar los beneficios de la globalización con la cohesión social, y centra su atención en el rol que le corresponde a la universidad. El ensayo pasa revista a la relación tradicional entre la universidad, el Estado y la sociedad, y plantea nuevos rumbos para que investigadores e investigadoras construyan alternativas viables y sostenibles que permitan afrontar colectivamente las actuales exigencias del mundo del trabajo, que trascienden la inexorable alfabetización informática de los educandos, y promueve rescatar viejos saberes y valores perdidos a lo largo de sus propios procesos socioeducativos, políticos, religiosos y culturales en los países del Sur que han sufrido el colonialismo y el imperialismo, especialmente en Latinoamérica. Sostiene que la respuesta al desafío, en la hora actual, será fruto de los valores históricos que han inspirado siempre las luchas libertarias: el universalismo, la fraternidad, los derechos compartidos, lo que remite a la cuestión de los derechos humanos como directriz posible, obligatoria de las acciones pedagógicas, que pone en marcha reflexiones sobre las tecnologías, la economía, con repercusiones positivas sobre las condiciones de vida de la población.
El Derecho Ambiental y el Tribunal Constitucional del Perú
Authors: Calle Hayen Fernando
Published: July 2016

El asunto que se aborda en este artículo se halla referido a la importancia que otorga el Tribunal Constitucional al bloque constitucional referido a la defensa de los derechos ambientales para la interpretación y aplicación de los mismos, es decir, a su facultad para apreciar la validez de constitucional de las normas apelando no solo a las normas constitucionales sino también a las leyes dictadas para determinar las competencias de los órganos del Estado y el ejercicio de tales derechos.Palabras clave: Derecho Ambiental, Derecho Constitucional, derechos humanos, desarrollo sostenible.
Correlación entre el contrato de franquicia y el objeto física y jurídicamente posible como elemento del negocio jurídico
Authors: Hermoza Calero Jéssica Pilar
Published: July 2016

El presente artículo nos ofrece una descripción clara sobre el contrato de franquicia, su diferencia con otras figuras jurídicas (contrato de know how, contrato de agencia comercial, contrato de concesión y contrato de management), las partes integrantes del contrato de franquicia, así como las ventajas y desventajas para el franquiciante y el franquiciado.Palabras clave: contrato de franquicia, negocio jurídico, franquiciante, franquiciado.
Reflexiones sobre la filosofía y el Derecho
Authors: Escobar Delgado Luisa
Published: July 2016

Tal como lo deja ver el título, este artículo se ocupa de la relación que se establece entre la filosofía y el Derecho, a partir de las diferentes concepciones filosóficas que se ocupan del Derecho como campo de estudio e investigación. Así, se consideran temas como la filosofía del Derecho a partir de la razón, el concepto de filosofía del Derecho como superación de la falacia naturalista, los caracteres del análisis iusfilosófico, la justificación de la filosofía del Derecho, la filosofía del debido proceso, entre otros.Palabras clave: Derecho, filosofía, filosofía del Derecho.
La asociatividad de las Mype regulada en el Decreto Legislativo 1086 y su impacto en el emporio Gamarra
Authors: Tello Cabello Sara Ynés
Published: July 2016

El objetivo de la investigación es demostrar las virtudes y el grado de eficacia de la asociatividad de las Mype peruanas, particularmente en el emporio Gamarra, la promoción de mecanismos que permitan el impulso y la evaluación de los criterios que se han venido adoptando en las políticas gubernamentales. Para ello, nos remitiremos a los cuadros estadísticos proporcionados en el riguroso trabajo de investigación elaborado por el Ministerio de Trabajo y de la Promoción del Empleo, titulado Gobiernos locales iniciándose en la promoción de las Mype: necesidades actuales de Gamarra frente al TLC(2008). Estudio en el que se consignan cuadros estadísticos que muestran variables de análisis reveladores que dan cuenta de un perfil más cercano de los empresarios gamarrinos y que develan el grado de probabilidad de implementación de los objetivos propuestos con la nueva Ley Mype.
Las licencias para los trabajadores con responsabilidades familiares: hacia la consolidación de la igualdad de las parejas
Authors: Guevara B. José A.
Published: July 2016

La presente ponencia está dividida en tres partes. La primera corresponde al derecho a la igualdad entre el hombre y la mujer, en el marco de las responsabilidades familiares. La segunda tiene que ver con la conciliación de la vida laboral y familiar, poniendo énfasis en las licencias de maternidad. La tercera corresponde a las licencias de paternidad: definición, objetivos o fines, y modalidades. Finalmente, el autor expone unas breves consideraciones finales.Palabras clave: maternidad, paternidad, licencia, familia.
Legalidad versus tipos penales abiertos en el Código Penal cubano
Authors: Camilo Momblanc Liuver
Published: July 2016

En el presente trabajo, a partir de los retos que impone la sociedad moderna al Derecho Penal, se describen los riesgos y beneficios de la utilización por las legislaciones penales de los tipos abiertos como modalidad técnico legislativa para la conformación de las figuras de delito. Para ello se fundamentan las exigencias del principio de legalidad y realiza un análisis exegético que permite valorar la situación concreta del Código Penal cubano. Finalmente, el autor sostiene el criterio de la necesidad de recurrir a los tipos abiertos solo en aquellos casos imprescindible a la vista de las necesidades de tutela del bien jurídico que se desea proteger.Palabras clave: principio de legalidad, tipos penales abiertos, Código Penal cubano.
El Derecho genético. Ética en investigación biomédica y la dignidad de la persona humana
Authors: Escobar Delgado Luisa
Published: July 2016

El presente artículo nos muestra la estrecha relación que existe entre los principios éticos y las prácticas biomédicas en que las personas puedan ver afectada no solo su integridad física sino también su dignidad inherente, aun cuando tales prácticas presuntamente estén dirigidas a lograr un desarrollo científico que finalmente redunde en beneficio de toda la especie humana.Además de hacer un breve recuento de la evolución de la bioética a través de diferentes épocas históricas, expone los diversos tratados y declaraciones internacionales en que se han ido enunciando los principios fundamentales en que se sustenta la investigación biomédica, los mismos que, considerando como eje el respeto de los derechos humanos, han servido y sirven para la elaboración de la legislación de cada país en particular.Finalmente se exponen algunos puntos importantes de la legislación peruana en torno de la biotecnología aplicada a diferentes aspectos de nuestra realidad social, médica y medioambiental.Palabras clave: bioética, biotecnología, derechos humanos, Derecho genético.
Libres e independientes: “Por la voluntad de los pueblos, por la justicia que Dios defiende” (1821- 2012) (Y por el agua que no has de beber, a partir de ahora... al emprender la imposible conquista de lo obvio)
Authors: Maclean U. Roberto G.
Published: July 2016

Breve historia, resumen, identificación, diagnóstico y programa para resolver los problemas centrales de un sistema de justicia, a partir de ahora y aquí; con una distinta capacitación que desarrolle en los jueces otro tipo de destrezas y habilidades para poder mantener diálogos intensos con la comunidad, y producir —en menos de 4 años— los primeros resultados concretos, que pueden ser comprobados por cualquier ciudadano —salvo oposición o interrupción provocada por el propio sistema de justicia— sin causar costos adicionales, necesitar nuevas leyes, ni de un cargo remunerado.Palabras clave: justicia, ley, gobierno, poder judicial.
Las etnias amazónicas del departamento del Cusco
Authors: Vega Centeno Alfredo Ugarte
Published: July 2016

Mi interés al escribir sobre las comunidades nativas del departamento del Cusco fue netamente académico. Contribuir desde la antropología al conocimiento de su realidad y mostrar al Cusco no solo como un departamento andino sino también amazónico era importante para resolver su problemática, porque lo andino tiene un peso histórico bastante grande al haber sido Cusco capital del Imperio Inca, proyecto que abarcó casi todo el continente sudamericano y ser en la actualidad el único proyecto que permitió tener a nuestra querida tierra en una dimensión continental. Decir que Cusco es la capital de lo “andino” en el presente es señalar que es prisionero de su historia, lo que se reflejaba en la distribución nada equitativa de los presupuestos hacia su zona amazónica, concentrándose en las zonas andinas. Los sectores amazónicos del departamento se debatían entre la pobreza, el olvido y la indiferencia. Uno de los factores que contribuían a este comportamiento fue la ignorancia y la falta de propuestas de su clase política, desconocimiento y olvido, también desde la ciudadanía cusqueña, que calificaba a sus paisanos amazónicos despectivamente como “chunchos” (salvajes), pero también provenía de la universidad. Demostrar que más de la mitad del Departamento en términos superficiales es amazónico y que en ella viven comunidades, etnias y familias lingüísticas es todavía un desafío que se encuentra pendiente y que debe cambiar al asumir un autorreconocimiento de ser un departamento andino amazónico, tan rico en historial como la parte andina, le permitirá asumir un enfoque diferente al actual. El documento se trabajó mediante un enfoque de cuenca que nos permitió ubicar los principales ríos y el lugar donde se encuentran las comunidades nativas y su relación con las familias lingüísticas y grupos étnicos al que pertenecían. Paralelamente, los ubicamos en su respectiva jurisdicción política, es decir, en sus respectivos distritos y provincias, para finalmente realizar una breve descripción histórica y antropológica de cada etnia que permita al lector ubicarse en la problemática.Seguramente también será un aporte para la importante Ley de Consulta que aprobó el actual Gobierno, y cuyo reglamento hasta la fecha no se aprueba, por haberse perdido el norte en la elaboración de una “línea base” de las comunidades por un sector burocrático del aparato estatal, temeroso de las presiones políticas y económicas. Esta elaboración debería realizarse en forma académica y científica al margen de la política y sus intereses.Palabras clave: etnia, comunidad nativa, Amazonía, familia lingüística.
Evolución legal y pedagógica de los sistemas académicos de la Universidad Peruana desde el siglo XX hasta el presente año (2012)
Authors: Zevallos Vera Manuel
Published: July 2016

El presente trabajo pretende, tras una breve introducción, revisar, describir y analizar, con un claro objetivo y sin prejuicios, la evolución legal-pedagógica de los sistemas académicos de la universidad peruana desde el siglo XX hasta el presente año 2012, tomando como base las fuentes legales a nuestro alcance y la experiencia a través de más de 50 años vividos por el autor en su seno como servidor administrativo en sus más altos niveles y como docente en las cátedras de filosofía, hasta llegar el grado de profesor emérito en la Universidad Nacional de San Agustín de Arequipa y Rector de la UNSA, primer Presidente de la Asamblea Nacional de Rectores, miembro del CONAFU y condecorado con las Palmas Magistrales en el grado de Amauta del Perú, además de escritor e investigador de las ciencias filosóficas y sociales.Palabra clave: universidad peruana, facultad, escuela, departamento académico.
Las cenicientas del Derecho Civil y las Acciones Reales
Authors: Silva Vallejo José Antonio
Published: July 2016

El siguiente texto corresponde a la conferencia dictada por el autor con motivo del congreso de juristas sobre “El Derecho Civil en el Perú de hoy. Propuestas y perspectivas de cambio”, organizado por la Facultad de Derecho de la Universidad Alas Peruanas. En esta ponencia se desarrolla el tema de las Acciones Reales, que en opinión del autor carece de una regulación adecuada por parte de la legislación actual. Así, luego de ofrecernos una visión de la legislación de otros países en relación con las Acciones Reales, nos propone finalmente un Proyecto de Reforma de Código Civil referido al asunto en cuestión.Palabras clave: acciones reales, Derecho Civil, Código Civil.
El Contrato de Seguro en el Perú Comentarios a la Ley Nº 29946
Authors: Torres Gamero Rolando
Published: July 2016

El presente trabajo de investigación busca primero precisar los aspectos generales de la institución del seguro así como su evolución histórica y legislativa en el Perú. Posteriormente se hace un comentario de la Ley del Contrato de Seguro promulgada el 27 de noviembre de 2012 en sus aspectos más resaltantes, considerando su importancia en relación con las condiciones de contratación y la aplicación del Código de Protección y Defensa del Consumidor previsto en la mencionada Ley. Finalmente, se arriban a conclusiones generales que pretenden coadyuvar al mejoramiento de la aplicación de esta importante norma.Palabras clave: seguro, consumidor, asegurado, asegurador.
El título de crédito hipotecario negociable
Authors: Tello Cabello Sara Ynés
Published: July 2016

El presente artículo tiene como objetivo analizar el título de crédito hipotecario negociable, como innovación contemplada en la Ley de Títulos Valores. No cabe duda de que el avance de la ciencia y la tecnología vienen cambiando al mundo, y el Derecho cartular no puede ser ajeno a los cambios. Por ello, el legislador creó el Título de Crédito Hipotecario Negociable, como una alternativa para obtener un crédito de financiamiento. Sin embargo, a pesar de contar con un instrumento que ofrece diversas ventajas frente a otros, no es tan frecuente su uso por parte de las personas y/o entidades financieras, dando como consecuencia la poca utilización del Título de Crédito Hipotecario Negociable en el mercado hipotecario.Palabra Clave: título de crédito, hipotecario, negociable.
Editorial
Authors: Díaz Bazán Ricardo
Published: July 2016

No presenta resumen