bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of radio frequency discharge plasma on surface properties and biocompatibility of polycaprolactone matrices
Authors: Bolbasov E.N. , Antonova L.V. , Matveeva V.G. , Novikov V.A. , Shesterikov E.V. , Bogomolova N.L. , Golovkin A.S. , Tverdohlebov S.I. , Barbarash O.L. , Barbarash L.S.
Published: March 2016

Surface modification of bioresorbable polymer material (polycaprolactone, PCL) with abnormal glow discharge, initiated during radio-frequency magnetron sputtering of a hydroxyapatite target was investigated. Plasma treatment resulted in an increase of surface roughness of PCL, crystallite size, the surface free energy and hydrophilicity. Increased treatment time (30, 60, 150 seconds) provoked the polymer surface saturation with the sputtering target ions (calcium, phosphorus). The assessment of plasma exposure of PCL surface on bone marrow multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells behavior (BM MSCs) has been performed. Modification of the polymer surface with the abnormal glow discharge stimulated adhesion and subsequent proliferation of BM MSCs; thus, maximum values were achieved with the surface treatment for 60 s. This type of plasma modification did not affect cell viability (apoptosis, necrosis). Thus, the surface modification with abnormal glow discharge, initiated during radio-frequency magnetron sputtering of a hydroxyapatite target, appear to be a promising method of surface modification of bioresorbable polymer material (PCL) for tissue engineering.
The effect of long-term exposure to low doses of endocrine disruptor ddt on serum levels of thyroid protein autoantigenes and antithyroid autoantibodies
Authors: Yaglova N.V. , Yaglov V.V.
Published: March 2016

Changes in secretion of thyroid autoantigenes and production of antithyroid autoantibodies after long-term exposure to low doses of DDT were studied. Changes in serum levels of antithyroid peroxidase antibodies and thyroid peroxidase, attributed to disruption of thyroxine production by DDT were found. Long-term exposure of rats to low doses of DDT revealed no specific impact on serum autoantibodies to all thyroid autoantigenes studied. The increase of the ratio of autoantibody/autoantigen for thyroid peroxidase and thyroglobulin was rather small and thus could not be considered as a significant symptom of thyroid autoimmunity.
Activation of caspases in lymphocytes of patients with depression and anxiety
Authors: Gerasimovich E.S. , Yakovlev A.A. , Druzhkova T.A. , Grishkina M.N. , Guekht A.B. , Gulyaeva N.V.
Published: March 2016

The processes in the nervous and immune systems are closely interrelated. In particular, increased apoptosis was reported in lymphocytes of patients with depression. The aim of this study was to assess activities of proteases associated with cell death in lymphocytes of patient with personality disorders accompanied by depression and anxiety. In patients with personality disorders associated with organic brain dysfunction caspase activities were reduced in patients with depression and increased in patients with anxiety. The results may be useful for elucidation of pathogenetic mechanisms of personality disorders and in search of new biomarkers of these diseases.
Serum igG antibodies to GD1a and GM1 gangliosides in elderly people
Authors: Kolyovska V.
Published: March 2016

Nowadays, the percentage of elderly people in society grows. Good nutrition and medical care help older people to have a normal life over 80 to 90 years. In the last ten years it is of critical importance to establish the clinical significance of serum IgG anti-GD1a and anti-GM1 ganglioside antibodies as potential biomarkers for neuronal damage in neurodegenerative diseases and immune-mediated neuropathies and demyelination. In the current study, the diagnostic values of IgG anti-GD1a and anti-GM1 antibodies were determined by the ELISA method in serum samples of 18 elderly patients (71-91 years). Significantly elevated serum IgG anti-GD1a and anti-GM1 antibodies titers were detected only in patients over 80 years. These data suggest that the immune-mediated neuropathies, neurodegeneration and demyelination in healthy elderly occur after 80 years old. Therefore, IgG anti-GD1a and anti-GM1 antibodies can serve as biomarkers, showing the nervous system dysfunction.
Characteristics of exosomes andmicroparticles discovered in human tears
Authors: Grigor’eva A.E. , Tamkovich S.N. , Eremina A.V. , Tupikin A.E. , Kabilov M.R. , Chernykh V.V. , Vlassov V.V. , Laktionov P.P. , Ryabchikova E.I.
Published: March 2016

Exosomes represent a sort of extracellular vesicles, which transfer molecular signals in organism and possess markers of producing cells. Our study was aimed at search of exosomes in the tears of healthy humans, confirmation of their nature and examination of exosome morphological and molecular-biological characteristics. The tears (110-340 ml) were collected from 24 healthy donors (aged 46-60 years); individual probes were centrifuged at 20000 g for 15 min to pellet cell debris. The supernatants were examined in electron microscope using negative staining; and they were also used for isolation and purification of the exosomes by filtration (100 nm pore-size) and double ultracentrifugation (90 min at 100000 g, 4°C). The “pellets” were subjected to electron microscopy, immunolabeling. The RNA and DNA were isolated from the samples, and their sizes were evaluated by capillary electrophoresis, the concentration and localization of nucleic acids were determined. Sequencing of DNA was performed using MiSeq (“Illumina”, USA), data were analyzed using CLC GW 7.5 (“Qiagen”, USA). Sequences were mapped on human genome (hg19). Electron microscopy revealed in supernatants of the tears cell debris, spherical microparticles (20-40 nm), membrane vesicles and macromolecular aggregates. The “pellets” obtained after ultracentrifugation, contained microparticles (17%), spherical and cup-shaped EVs (40-100 nm, 83%), which were positive for CD63, CD9 and CD24 receptors (specific markers of exosomes). Our study showed presence of high amount of exosomes in human tears, and relation of the exosomes with RNA (size less than 200 nt) and DNA (size was 3-9 kb). Sequencing of the DNA showed that about 92% of the reads mapped to human genome.
Les Risques Associés à l’Utilisation Inappropriée des Stéroïdes Anabolisants
Authors: Borgeat Marie-Claude , Gomes James
Published: March 2016

Notre société met une emphase énorme sur la beauté et la performance physique. Il n’est donc pas surprenant qu’une tranche importante de celle-ci prenne recourt à des méthodes drastiques qui lui permettront de s’approcher ou d’atteindre ces objectifs. Une des méthodes devenue populaire est l’utilisation inappropriée de stéroïdes anabolisants. Plusieurs études ont évalué les effets néfastes et indésirables de ces composés à des doses supra-physiologiques. Nous présentons donc une révision et synthèse de ces effets dans le but de mieux comprendre les effets néfastes de ce composé lorsqu’il est utilisé de façon inappropriée.
A Review of the Effects of Psychological Interventions on the Quality of Life for Children with Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Czerniakow Maria A
Published: March 2016

Atopic Dermatitis (AD) is a psychologically debilitating disease due to its embarrassing skin lesions and pruritic nature which disturb the quality of life (QOL) of the patients. Even though children are primarily affected, caregivers can also be affected due to being the first line of care for others who are inflicted. This review focuses on randomized control trials which investigated the use of non-chemical forms of treatment to improve QOL and disease severity in children. A search of the PubMed database identified six studies that met the inclusion criteria. The studies were ranked from most rigorous trial to least. Various forms of education as an intervention were used. Conversely, the viewing of a humorous film was tested to examine if it had an impact on QOL. Education intervention versus no education at all showed that the intervention group had a larger decrease in disease severity than the control group. The form of education as a single consult with an AD educated nurse showed no difference between the control and the intervention group. Comparison of nurse-led clinics with the dermatologist-led clinics indicated that the nurse-led clinics were more successful. Viewing humorous films before bedtime was demonstrated as a successful means of reducing night-time awakenings. Also specific AD education versus routine education and consultations showed improvement in both groups. Finally, AD video education versus direct parental teaching concluded that the video-education was more effective. Although the studies show that any form of education intervention is better than none, the methodological assessment of the studies showed that four of the studies were not rigorous enough or were not described at all. Further studies must be conducted in a more methodologically sound manner for the results to be considered replicable and valid.
A Review of Xq28 and the Effect on Homosexuality
Authors: Lee Philip M
Published: March 2016

The cause of homosexuality remains a hotly contested debate to this day. Although the role of genetics has diminished over the past decade because of the popularity of environmental influences, it continues to be a relevant correlative possibility. Since its inception in the early 1990's from a study conducted by Dr. Dean Hamer, the genetic locus Xq28 has become amongst one of the most important genetic factors of sexual orientation. Subsequent studies attempting replication have improved on the original experiment although the initial measures and methods of experimentation may have biased the results of the findings. Consequently, contention between advocates for and against Xq28 continues over 15 years later with mounting evidence weakening the link of Xq28 and homosexuality. Even though the majority of genetic discussion revolves around Hamer’s original findings, more recent genetic markers have also now been found which may show positive connections and provide the basis for further research.
The Environmental Causes of Cancer: A Literature Review
Authors: Patel Premal , Gomes James
Published: March 2016

Social media holds considerable potential for health promotion and other health intervention activities, as it addresses some of the limitations in traditional health communication by increasing accessibility, interaction, engagement, empowerment and customization. The use of social media increases the potential for easy access to preventive medicine, interaction with health care providers, interprofessional communication in emergency management, and public health. However, more research is needed to determine its long term effectiveness and to maximize the strategic presence of health organizations on social networking websites. This paper provides encouraging information about the possibilities of using social media to improve access to health information and health care providers, as well as to promote positive health behaviour change. It is essential for health promotion organizations to capitalize on the opportunities provided by social media, in order to modernize strategies to reach all age groups and to tailor programs to current communication trends, all of which are offered at a relatively low cost.
The Effects of Exogenous Estrogens on Estrogen Receptors in Male Reproductive Organs
Authors: Todiodi Mina
Published: March 2016

There is an essential physiological role for estrogen in male reproduction. Conversely, exposure to exogenous sources of estrogen has negative effects on reproductive physiology and fertility in men. Infertility, affecting nearly 15% of couples, is defined as the inability to conceive after one year of unprotected sexual intercourse. In at least 20% of cases, male reproductive pathology is the major cause for a couple’s infertility. Thus, it is essential to investigate potential causes of infertility in adult males. Evidence shows that exposure to certain endocrine disruptors is associated with reduced semen quality and impaired fertility in men. Bisphenol A and Diethylstilbestrol are endocrine disruptors that act as exogenous sources of estrogen and have been associated with male reproductive pathology. This review will examine the role of exogenous estrogens on changes in gene expression of estrogen receptors ERα, ERβ, and GPR30. Previous studies have had conflictive results, suggesting that the effects of exogenous estrogens on male reproduction are multi-faceted. Future studies should focus on determining whether exogenous estrogens have a stimulatory and/or inhibitory effect on gene expression and whether this relationship is dose-dependent or if it follows a more complex dosage pattern.
Angioplasty Used to Treat Multiple Sclerosis Patients: A Potential Revolution in Health Care Technology
Authors: Guerra Andre
Published: March 2016

Multiple sclerosis (MS) has long been labeled as a neurological disease with a high incidence among Canadians, women in particular. The disease first manifests itself in young adulthood (between the ages of 15 and 40 years). Areas of demyelination with a proliferation of astrocytes are found scattered in the white matter of MS patients, this leads to muscle weakness, numbness, disequilibrium, sphincter disturbance and other neurological dysfunctions. Recently Dr. Paolo Zamboni, a vascular surgeon at the University of Ferrara in Italy, found that many multiple sclerosis patients have a narrowing of some of the neck veins responsible for draining blood from the brain. According to Dr. Zamboni, this narrowing of the blood vessels leads to the deposit of iron in the defected veins, which restricts blood flow and is responsible for some of the MS complications. Dr. Zamboni achieved unblocking of the veins through angioplasty, a procedure normally used to open arteries affected by atherosclerosis. In one of his trials, 65 patients were given the procedure, which decreased the rate of occurrence of lesions, from 50% to 12% in patients. There was an improvement in mental and physical quality of life in most of the patients in this trial. Ethical questions are also discussed in this review. Dr. Zamboni`s studies suggest a genetic inheritance of factors that may lead to MS. Should health care providers institute a screening procedure in newborns? Would these screenings be mandatory? Would the screenings be free?
Effects of Bisphenol A and Diethylstilbestrol on Estrogen Receptor Expression and Male Fertility
Authors: Duncan Heather M , Phillips Karen P
Published: March 2016

Infertility is defined as a couple’s inability to conceive after one year of unprotected intercourse. Male reproductive pathologies are the predominate cause of at least 20% of cases of infertility; making male infertility is an important issue in overall population health. Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can impair spermatogenesis by creating hormonal imbalances and morphological changes. DES and BPA are both exogenous estrogens, also known as xenoestrogens. Estrogen has an important role in fertility of males as well as females: it has a role in the overall endocrine balance required to allow spermatogenesis. Effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis may be monitored by assessing for upregulation of estrogen receptors α and -B (ERα and ERβ), as well as the novel estrogen receptor g-protein coupled receptor 30 (GPR30). Controversy surrounds the mechanisms endocrine disruption associated with these chemicals, and whether the negative effects on fertility are relevant at low doses, or only at high doses which are systemically toxic. Analysis of literature associated with this ongoing research will enrich our understanding of the molecular bases for impairment of spermatogenesis and male fertility associated with exposure to EDCs, specifically DES and BPA. Once completed, this study will contribute to knowledge in the fields of population health, environmental health, and molecular genetics. With a more thorough understanding of the impact of EDCs on fertility, it is hoped that governments will further prevent exposure by better regulating the use of compounds such as DES and BPA.
The Risk of Prostate Cancer from Occupational Exposures in Male Firefighters
Authors: Wong Zing-Wae , Gomes James
Published: March 2016

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men. Since prostate cancer is a slow developing cancer, mortality can be prevented if the tumour is detected and treated in its early stages. There is proof that environmental exposures can increase the risk of prostate cancer. Many papers have performed data analyses on prostate cancer levels in firefighters. There has been some research on firefighter prostate cancer levels but few reviews on the topic. This paper focuses on finding whether there is a correlation between firefighting occupation and levels of prostate cancer. As well, this paper notes potential carcinogens within the firefighting occupation. Five papers were included in this review; these papers used different methods to obtain the cases and cohorts for the study. The papers also used different controls for comparison. Nevertheless, the papers found in the search supported a positive correlation between exposures in firefighting occupations and the level of prostate cancer. The two chemicals that were suspected carcinogens in these studies were Polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and fire smoke. However, future research can be more rigorous in calculations of prostate cancer levels by including lifestyle factors, other confounders such as smoking, and estimated length of exposure.
Extreme Male Brain Theory of Autism
Authors: Liu Erin Y , Konkle Anne TM
Published: March 2016

Autism spectrum conditions (ASCs) are a category of neurodevelopmental disorders with symptoms of communication and social impairment, and the exhibition of restrictive and repetitive behaviours. Their occurrence is greater in males than females and this sex difference has played an important part in hypothesizing their etiology. The Extreme Male Brain (EMB) theory is a cognitive model proposed by Simon Baron-Cohen to explain the aforementioned sex differences and potential cause of ASCs. It is based upon his Empathizing Systemizing theory, which classifies individuals into one of five cognitive profiles (Type S, Type E, Type B, Extreme Type S and Extreme Type E). These cognitive profiles determine an individual’s ability to systemize and empathize. Systemizing is the ability to understand and derive the rules of a system, and requires deductive and analytical skills. Empathizing relates to understanding human emotion and behaviour, thus requires social and communication skills. Males tend to systemize better than empathize while females have an opposite profile. Based upon the EMB theory, autistic individuals would possess an Extreme Type S profile as their impairments in social communication can be explained by a deficit in empathizing, while their preoccupation with patterns and detail-oriented behaviour can be related to their high systemizing. Together, these cognitive models have resulted in the Foetal Testosterone (fT) Theory, which implicates high prenatal testosterone as a risk factor for the associated hypermasculinized cognitive profile of individuals with ASCs. This review paper assesses the validity of the EMB and fT theories by reviewing the literature relating fT with autistic traits in the general population. The seven studies confirmed a correlation between higher fT levels and an increase in autistic traits, but limitations need to be considered when generalizing this information to an ASC sample.
Quelle est la Part des Régimes Publics d’Assurance- Médicament aux Résultats de Sante? Une Étude de Cas Multiples au Nouveau-Brunswick, en Ontario, et au Québec
Authors: Alary-Vanasse Marika , Yaya Sanni
Published: March 2016

Canadian provincial and territorial drug plans vary considerably in terms of eligibility criteria, and most of the insurance plans provided are subject to caps, cost sharing and exclusions. In fact, Canadians have unequal access to prescription medications, depending on their socio-economic status and place of residence. This comes at time then the effects of population aging, an increasing number of people with multiple chronic illnesses and innovations in the prescription medications field have brought about an increase in spending on these products. The question raised by this study is does a province with a better prescription drug plan have a healthier population? This study compared coverage of prescription drug plans among people 65 years old and over in three provinces: New Brunswick, Ontario and Quebec. The results of our study suggest that senior citizen health does not seem to improve. Therefore, it is impera- tive that additional research be conducted to determine the true impact of prescription drug plans on health outcomes. This would allow for the creation of tailor-made, better-targeted programs and policies to meet community needs more adequately.
The Disability Experience: Living with a Birth Defect Resulting from Thalidomide Exposure
Authors: Meyers Émilie M. , Jutai Jeffrey W.
Published: March 2016

The drug, Thalidomide, is a classic example of how medicine has the potential to cause us harm. The market flooding of this drug in the 1950’s resulted in the birth of 8 to 10 thousand children with birth defects. Today in Canada this tragedy still affects the lives of approximately 125 individuals. How do these individuals live their lives and what has been the overall impact of their impairment? This article explores the lived experience of a woman born with upper limb phocomelia as a result of Thalidomide exposure. A one-hour unstructured face-to-face interview was conducted. Permission was received from the interviewee to make a voice recording of the interview allowing for a more concrete data review. The interview uncovered 6 primary themes indicating that a physical impairment resulting from thalidomide can have a minimal impact on an individual’s overall quality of life, as long as sufficient support and a positive self identity is present. The interviewee’s accounts suggest that living with disability is a unique experience that can lead to positive outcomes. The ultimate conclusion of this paper is that more extensive research is needed to further represent the voices of the disability community.
A Critique of Gender Identity Disorder and its Application
Authors: Macdonald-Labelle Stefan
Published: March 2016

For some, Gender Identity Disorder (GID) becomes the only way to achieve sex reassignment surgery (SRS). It will be shown that GID acts as a problematic regulatory mechanism based on its application. It will be argued that GID normalizes a dichotomous view of gender. In this way, GID’s implicit applications allow the mental health professional to assert their views of what proper gendered behavior is, further normalizing a binary view of gender. Insurance companies require a GID diagnosis in order to provide economic assistance to those wishing to undergo sex reassignment surgery. Those who cannot afford to transition must fall under GID’s gaze in order to achieve SRS. This will be shown to be unacceptable and a way in which GID operates as a regulatory mechanism. Appealing to a GID diagnosis can further stigmatize the individual who wishes to transition due to the necessitation of distress as an explicit mechanism of diagnosis. Having to fall under GID may internalize the negative aspects of the diagnosis. A criticism of GID as a form of psychopathology will be given and also be linked to the idea of GID as a regulatory apparatus. It will be shown that there should be no link between ethical discomfort and GID-free sex reassignment surgery. Also, it will be shown that psychopathology has normalizing capabilities that further entrench gender binaries. It is important to consider the removal of GID from the DSM, but, as a condition, still offer funding for sex reassignment surgery without having to appeal to a mental health professional’s assessment.
Case Based Learning Teaching Methodology in Undergraduate Health Sciences
Authors: Brown Kaitlyn , Commandant Mary , Kartolo Adi , Rowed Casey , Stanek Agatha , Sultan Heebah , Toor Kabir , Wininger Victoria
Published: March 2016

Case-based learning (CBL) is an interactive teaching approach involving small-group discussion to determine a range of solutions for a presented patient case. In light of the success that the approach has achieved in numerous professional and undergraduate programs, a pilot project was introduced in 2009 by senior health sciences students, who acted as CBL facilitators, at the University of Ottawa for undergraduate courses in the Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences (ISHS). In collaboration with faculty professors, the facilitators developed CBL sessions consisting of patient cases that were reflective of the core objectives of health sciences courses. A total of 144 undergraduate students from three ISHS courses took part in these sessions; they were evaluated based on the calibre of their participation and a quiz. The quiz consisted of 5 questions that evaluated the students’ mastery of the concepts covered in the CBL session. The students also completed an evaluation of the pilot project. On a nominal scale of one to five, the students on average scored 4.13 out of a possible 5.00 (SD 1.48) marks on the quiz. In the evaluation, the students rated the project as having an overall learning benefit of 3.82 on a nominal scale of one to four. The evaluation indicates that the students perceived the program as having significant learning value and the quiz marks confirmed that CBL promoted the application of lecture content to practical scenarios. These preliminary findings suggest that implementing CBL in ISHS would enhance students’ academic experience. Further sessions based on this model would improve from more rigorous pre- and post- session assessments.
Under-reporting of Adverse Drug Reactions: The Need for an Automated Reporting System
Authors: Pearson Benjamin R
Published: March 2016

Although upwards of 32,000 adverse drug reactions are reported to Health Canada annually, this represents only approximately 5% of cases experienced by Canadians every year. This gross display of underreporting not only results in unrepresentative data in regards to adverse drug reactions, but further discredits databases used by healthcare professionals and in turn compromises the health and safety of Canadians. Major causes of underreporting seen in the literature are ignorance, diffidence and lethargy displayed by healthcare professionals. While Health Canada relies on these professionals to voluntarily report adverse drug reactions, the potential exists for an automated reporting system to remove causes of underreporting. Through integrating such a system with current health informatics technologies such as the electronic health record and utilizing existing health system communication technologies, healthcare professionals will be provided with representative data of adverse drug reactions in Canada and in turn be able to better serve their patients.
Access to Maternal Health Care for Native Canadians on Reserves in Northern Canada
Authors: Beking David M
Published: March 2016

The history of abuse and isolation of Native Canadian populations has created a gap in maternal health care, resulting in infant mortality rates (IMRs) of 12 per 1000 births for on-reserve populations compared to 5.8 per 1000 births for the general Canadian population. This discrepancy is deemed a population health issue, as Native Canadian people constitute roughly 3% of the Canadian population, but have infant mortality rates similar to other third world countries. Currently, there are multiple government and non-government organizations in charge of providing maternal health care for on-reserve populations. A lack of a unified communication system linking these organizations creates a gap in the delivery of services and compromises the prenatal care in Native Canadians. The current method of caring for high risk pregnancies on Northern Canadian reserves is to fly the mothers out of their home community to a hospital that is both far away from their families and completely foreign to them. This practice contrasts with the cultural norms of the Native Canadian population, where expecting women receive antenatal care from elder women within their community. New models of care, in which midwives are the primary providers of antenatal care within a given community, have recently been implemented in Northern Quebec and other isolated areas of Canada. The midwives work with women elders of the community to provide a full system of maternal care. These new models show great promise in improving our current system of maternal health care for Native Canadians by providing more efficient and accessible antenatal care while also incorporating cultural norms of the communities.
Role of Estrogen Receptors in Male Reproductive Physiology
Authors: Lee Richard R , Phillips Karen P
Published: March 2016

Canonical estrogen receptors (ER α/β) have a genomic mechanism of action, functioning as nuclear transcription factors for estrogen-dependent genes. Estrogen receptors are well established within the male reproductive tract with estrogen playing an essential role for male fertility. The recent characterization of novel G-protein coupled estrogen receptor GPR30 (alternatively known as GPER1), depending on non-genomic intracellular signaling pathways to transduce estrogenic signals, requires a re-examination of the roles of estrogen receptors in male reproduction. Further, the affinity of environmental estrogens (xenoestrogens) for estrogen receptor subtypes may provide additional understanding of the reproductive effects of these chemicals on male fertility. Here we review the structure and functions of each estrogen receptor within the context of male reproduction, with special consideration of the reproductive implications of xenoestrogen exposure.
Percepción de la comunidad en torno al turismo como factor de desarrollo local. Caso San Pedro Tultepec, México
Authors: García Martínez Ana Karina , Serrano Barquín Rocío Del Carmen , Osorio García Maribel , López Carré Elizabeth
Published: March 2016

La percepción de la comunidad en torno al turismo es uno de los elementos fundamentales para el logro del desarrollo local de los destinos turísticos o potencialmente turísticos, que debe ser considerado en la realización de proyectos de turismo enfocados en la participación de la población local, que busquen la solución y prevención de ciertas problemáticas, además de los tradicionales beneficios económicos que genera esta actividad. En este trabajo se revisan los antecedentes teóricos y metodológicos de los estudios de la percepción de la comunidad en relación con la importancia del turismo como eje articulador del desarrollo local, a partir de la protección y el aprovechamiento de su patrimonio natural y cultural, específicamente de la localidad de San Pedro Tultepec en el estado de México. En el quehacer investigativo sobre este tema, la detección de las características de la localidad anfitriona que se desea investigar resulta enriquecedora, ya que se aportan elementos de la percepción de la comunidad que podrían contribuir en futuras investigaciones turísticas.
Turismo como agente educativo: un análisis desde las salidas de campo
Authors: Rodríguez Cortés Astrid Bibiana , Díaz Velasco Édgar Andrés , Carreño Cardozo Juan Manuel
Published: March 2016

El presente texto muestra los resultados de la investigación del proyecto Turismo y Educación: una propuesta de la Licenciatura en Recreación y Turismo, de la Facultad de Educación Física. Se muestra un análisis de las salidas de campo realizadas en la Facultad entre los años 2006 y 2012, y se expone una reflexión que tiene en cuenta algunas afirmaciones originadas en propuestas de turismo alternativo. En las salidas de campo y estas propuestas de turismo se presentan aspectos comunes de propósitos formativos para los participantes y su relación responsable con el entorno.
La comida típica dentro de la internacionalización de la oferta gastronómica en Bogotá
Authors: Valcárcel García Diana Marcela , Venegas Pardo Adriana
Published: March 2016

<span style="line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; font-size: 11pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-ansi-language: ES; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;" lang="ES">Debido la importancia que Bogotá ha otorgado a la oferta gastronómica de Colombia durante los últimos veinte años, la ciudad se ha convertido en un espacio donde se dan cita sus habitantes y viajeros para satisfacer todos los gustos del paladar en los restaurantes que ofrecen los mejores platos de la comida internacional y, por supuesto, los que se enorgullecen de resaltar la comida típica colombiana. Gracias a la zonificación gastronómica de Bogotá, la proliferación de restaurantes se ha hecho más evidente, situación que moviliza un mayor número de personas dentro de las fronteras nacionales y que incluso atrae visitantes extranjeros con el único objetivo de conocer la oferta gastronómica que la ciudad ostenta. Los objetivos de este artículo son 1) exponer el análisis realizado sobre la permanencia en el sector gastronómico de los mejores restaurantes de comida típica colombiana en Bogotá y 2) dar a conocer las características administrativas, operativas y los factores de perdurabilidad de ellos, así como el posicionamiento que la comida típica colombiana ocupa actualmente y su protagonismo dentro del patrimonio nacional.
Impacto de la tecnología de las cadenas hoteleras extranjeras en Cuba por medio de los contratos de administración
Authors: D’Meza Pérez Gustavo , Zaldívar Puig Martha María , Martín Fernández Ramón
Published: March 2016

El sector hotelero en Cuba se clasifica en cadenas hoteleras nacionales, entidades mixtas y alojamientos en casas particulares. Dentro de ellas, las cadenas hoteleras nacionales son de propiedad pública y gestionan sus hoteles directamente (llamados de marcas propias) o mediante contratos de administración con otras cadenas extranjeras. Las empresas mixtas siempre contratan a una entidad extranjera para administrar sus hoteles, mientras que los alojamientos privados son administrados por sus propietarios. El objetivo de este trabajo es evaluar el aporte tecnológico que ha significado la presencia de cadenas administradoras extranjeras para las cadenas hoteleras nacionales. Utilizando el análisis estadístico, los criterios de expertos recogidos en un Delphi, la observación directa y la realización de entrevistas, se ha evaluado la calidad de gestión de los diferentes administradores de hoteles (nacionales y extranjeros) y el impacto de la difusión de las técnicas extranjeras en la hotelería de marcas propias. Las conclusiones principales son tres: la tecnología de las cadenas hoteleras extranjeras permanece internalizada, su difusión en los grupos nacionales es escasa y la gestión de estos no alcanza los niveles de calidad y posicionamiento de los extranjeros. Para revertir esta situación, se recomiendan acciones que potencien las marcas nacionales y su gestión.
How Do Gifted Children Of Various Ages Perceive Their Situation In Heterogeneous Classes And What Can Pre-Service Teachers Learn From Them?
Authors: Klavir Rama
Published: March 2016

During their teaching program, pre-service teachers participated in a course concerning teaching in the heterogeneous classroom. As an introduction to the issue of ‘gifted children’, the pre-service teachers were given an assignment: (1) to interview gifted children (identified as gifted by the Ministry of Education, according to IQ level) in their own classes or schools, about their situation in the heterogeneous class or school. (2) To write a personal reflection about what they learned from these interviews. These data provided the basis for the study of the unique needs of ‘gifted children’ and the responses of pre-service teachers to these issues. The present study is based on the analysis of these collective results. On the one hand, it presents the picture obtained by the pre-service teachers from analysis of their interviews (Part I). On the other, the study presents the analysis of the pre-service teachers’ responses to Part II of the assignment.
Teacher-Student Verbal Interaction Patterns At The Tertiary Level Of Education
Authors: Inamullah Hafiz Muhammad , Ud din M. Naseer , Hussain Ishtiaq
Published: March 2016

The main objective of the proposed study was to explore Teacher–Student verbal interaction patterns at tertiary level education in the North West Frontier Province of Pakistan using Flanders’ Interaction Analysis system.  This study was significant because its findings and conclusions may stimulate teachers to improve their teaching behaviour in order to maximize student learning.  To achieve the above study objectives, three hypotheses were formulated in the light of Flanders “Two-thirds rule” of teacher-student classroom interaction at the tertiary level, namely, about two-thirds of the classroom time is devoted to talking, about two-thirds of this time the person talking is the teacher and two-thirds of the teachers’ talk is “direct” talk. Twenty-five classrooms at the tertiary level were randomly selected as samples for this study.  Twenty-five observations were carried out, one in each classroom, using Flanders Interaction Analysis system to secure the data.  To do this, time sampling was used and each classroom was observed for 810 seconds (13.50 minutes) in a 45-minutes class.  After obtaining and encoding the data, it was tabulated, analyzed, and interpreted by using percentages, means, and standard deviation.  All the hypotheses were supported and it was concluded that, at the tertiary level, more than two-thirds of classroom time was devoted to talking. Thus, talk method dominated in classes. More than two-thirds of the classroom talking time was devoted to teachers talking at the tertiary level with the teachers playing the dominant role.  More than two-thirds of the teachers’ talking time was devoted to direct talk, which showed the direct role of the teacher and indirect role of students at the tertiary level.
Eating Disorders Among Adolescents And How Educators Can Recognize Symptoms With Possible Strategies For Solutions
Authors: Alexander Kristina , Pohren Philip
Published: March 2016

Eating disorders is a problem that receives too little attention. These disorders have a great impact on student relationships, self-esteem, health, and achievement. Administrators and teacher leaders must take the initiative to think proactively and intervene.
Suggestions For Successfully Establishing A University Selling Center
Authors: Shepherd C. David , Eastman Jacqueline K.
Published: March 2016

The authors describe the multiple benefits a university selling center offers to students, faculty members, administrators, and the general business community.  The seven essential steps in first establishing a university selling center are addressed:  find a champion, obtain the support of administration, find a white knight, establish a board of advisors, develop a mission, develop a facilities and technology plan, and develop the sales curriculum.  In discussing these steps, the authors present both their experiences and discuss the literature in these areas.  The authors also discuss what one should do after the selling center is established and future needs that a selling center might address.
Evaluating The Effectiveness Of A Course-Objective Writing Developmental Teacher Training Program
Authors: Baker Russell , Almerico Gina M. , Thornton Barry
Published: March 2016

One of the challenges for educators is composing well-written, specifically stated outcomes of student learning. Developmental teacher training is a program designed to improve the effectiveness of university instructors. The program focuses on improving course methodology by guiding instructors through the development of correctly written and structured course objectives, effective and efficient delivery methodology including implementation of technology as a delivery medium, and proper outcomes evaluation of course effectiveness measured against the course objectives. This paper evaluates the effectiveness of the training. The outline used in the training is included in the appendix.
Grade Validity Of Online Quantitative Courses
Authors: Faurer Judson C.
Published: March 2016

Are prospective employers getting “quality” educated degreed applicants and are academic institutions that offer online degree programs ensuring the quality control of the courses/programs offered? The issue specifically addressed in this paper is not with all institutions offering degrees through online programs or even with all online courses. The concern is with those online courses where the means to ensure the validity of course grades is not guaranteed by measures of technology or academic rigor employed. More specifically, the practical measures to reduce or eliminate doubts about a student’s acquired knowledge in quantitative online courses need evaluation and thought to arrive at a more circumspect solution. Is the grade earned truly indicative of a student’s competency and level of acquired knowledge and understanding in an online quantitative course or merely an indication that the student somehow just satisfied proscribed evaluative criteria set by the faculty member without adequate measures of assessment?
Implications Of Severe Economic Decline & Demographic Pressures On Youth Literacy In Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Okpala Comfort O.
Published: March 2016

Although literacy rates have improved somehow in recent years, there are still large numbers of people that are illiterates in developing countries.  This paper examines the impact of severe economic decline and demographic pressures on youth literacy rate in Sub-Saharan Africa. In this study, a cross-sectional data of 39 Sub-Saharan African countries with adequate data information were analyzed. The results from the ANOVA tests indicate that economic decline is statistically significant in explaining youth literacy, while the results from demographic pressures and movement of refugees are inconclusive in explaining youth literacy.
New Directions In The Nigerian Educational System
Authors: Ogunleye Ayodele. O.
Published: March 2016

In recent times, the Nigerian educational system has witnessed some drastic reforms. This paper highlights some of the major reforms that have taken place especially in response to a number of international human rights instruments that provide for education as a fundamental human right to all. The paper further discusses some of the challenges facing education in Nigeria and which is making it difficult for good quality education that is all empowering and capable of bringing about sustainable development to be achieved. Finally, it offered some suggestions on how to overcome these challenges.
Are All Forms Of Scholarship Considered Equal?
Authors: Ward Chris , Carrigan Martin
Published: March 2016

Boyer’s four forms of scholarship were detailed in his 1990 book Scholarship Reconsidered: Priorities of the Professoriate.  In the 18 years since publication of that book, universities struggle with changing the promotion and tenure criteria to include all four forms of scholarship.  Faculty members often focus on publications as they prepare for promotion and tenure.  They are not comfortable immersing themselves in other forms of scholarship, like engagement, for fear it may be viewed unfavorably by the university and/or the review committee.  This paper focuses on the scholarship of engagement as it struggles to break through the institutional barrier and become an accepted form of scholarship.
Creating Win-Win Partnerships And Adding Relevance To Educator Preparation
Authors: Abrego Michelle , Morgan Bobbette M. , Abrego Chuey
Published: March 2016

The authors describe a partnership between two departments, in a school of education that involves educational leadership and curriculum and instruction graduate students sharing their expertise of teaching and learning with student teachers and alternatively certified teacher interns. This project provides graduate students with active participation in delivering workshops to adult learners. The beginning teachers are the participants. Beginning teachers benefit from gaining hands-on experience and research-based instructional strategies to use in their classrooms. Researchers found this activity increased the graduate students’ sensitivity to the needs of beginning teachers. Over 1300 student teachers and alternative certification interns and approximately 530 graduate students have participated in the Teaching, Learning, and Service Conference. The conference is organized twice a year, on a Saturday in the fall and on a Saturday in the spring.
Classroom Incivilities: Students Perceptions About Professors Behaviors
Authors: Stork Elizabeth , Hartley Nell Tabor
Published: March 2016

A learning environment is a social one, and as a social environment it impacts what learners retain, how they form ideas, and what connections are made and lost when acquiring new skills and knowledge (Goleman, 2006). Today’s college students’ expectations for and perceptions of professors in the classroom are likely to influence their learning environments. This paper reports on the development of a 56-item instrument, the Student Perceptions of Professor Behavior (SPPB), and findings about student perceptions concerning offensiveness of professor behaviors. Preliminary results suggest students’ perceptions fall into two domains: a professor’s competence and interest, and respect for the individualism of students.  Perceptions about egregiousness and number of offensive behaviors lessened over a course semester. Learning about today’s students’ perceptions and expectations may improve practices, learning environments and ultimately learning outcomes.
An Exploration On The Differences In Emotional Intelligence Of First Year Students Examined Across Disciplines Within The School Of Business In A Liberal Arts College
Authors: Yarrish Karen K. , Law Mark D.
Published: March 2016

In preparing the next generation of business professionals, educators need to take seriously the responsibility of empowering students with tools to assist them in their pursuits.  One area of interest is Emotional Intelligence.  Emotional Intelligence determines how students exercise self-control, zeal and persistence, and the ability to motivate themselves.  The purpose of the study is two-fold with respect to Emotional Intelligence.  First, the researchers will explore the differences of emotional intelligence examined by students’ discipline within the school of business in a liberal arts college.  Secondly, the researchers will analyze the implications for educators, administrators, researchers, and other interested parties.  Findings, conclusions, and recommendations will be presented.
Impact Of Job Status And Demographic Trends On Quality Education: A Case Study Of Private Universities In Pakistan
Authors: Ali Riasat , Khan Abdul Majeed , Qadeer Muhammad Zaigham , Shahzad Saqib
Published: March 2016

The major purpose of this paper was to examine the quality of various aspects of higher education in the private sector of Pakistan by adopting a descriptive method of research. The population of the study constituted 270 administrators, 6,180 teachers and 61,108 students in existing 54 private universities and degree-awarding institutions of Pakistan. The method of cluster sampling was used to select the study sample of 840 people, which was carried out in two stages. In the first stage, 12 clusters of universities were randomly chosen out of the total population of private universities. In the second stage, 60 administrators, 180 teachers and 600 students were selected through a random sampling procedure with five administrators, 15 teachers and 50 students from each selected cluster. Three questionnaires, developed and refined through pre-testing, were used as measuring instruments to collect data. The researcher personally visited each university and collected data from the sample. The collected data was tabulated, analyzed and interpreted by using ANOVA and t test techniques.