Corporate community involvement in Bangladesh:an empirical study

This paper empirically examines a corporate community involvement (CCI) initiative in Bangladesh. Drawing on a conceptual framework of 'collaborative betterment' and 'collaborative empowerment' and by using focus group discussions and interviews, it assesses the initiative to examine the extent to which it meets expectations of the community where it operates. Some of the key findings of the paper include: (i) although the initiative provides vital healthcare services to some of the most vulnerable and desperately poor communities, the level of actual engagement of the local people - the main stakeholders - has been marginal; (ii) when the principles of collaborative betterment and empowerment are considered, it can be concluded that the initiative struggles even as a 'betterment' process; and (iii) notwithstanding the rhetoric and high-blown statements, corporate role in terms of practical efforts in the field has been mostly superficial and limited. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.

Concentrations and d13C compositions of n-alkanes, n-alcohols, n-alkanoic acids in a 34-month time series of suspended sediments from the outflow of the Congo River

The concentrations, distributions, and stable carbon isotopes (d13C) of plant waxes carried by fluvial suspended sediments contain valuable information about terrestrial ecosystem characteristics. To properly interpret past changes recorded in sedimentary archives it is crucial to understand the sources and variability of exported plant waxes in modern systems on seasonal to inter-annual timescales. To determine such variability, we present concentrations and d13C compositions of three compound classes (n-alkanes, n-alcohols, n-alkanoic acids) in a 34-month time series of suspended sediments from the outflow of the Congo River. We show that exported plant-dominated n-alkanes (C25-C35) represent a mixture of C3 and C4 end members, each with distinct molecular distributions, as evidenced by an 8.1 ± 0.7 per mil (±1Sigma standard deviation) spread in d13C values across chain-lengths, and weak correlations between individual homologue concentrations (r = 0.52-0.94). In contrast, plant-dominated n-alcohols (C26-C36) and n-alkanoic acids (C26-C36) exhibit stronger positive correlations (r = 0.70-0.99) between homologue concentrations and depleted d13C values (individual homologues average <= -31.3 per mil and -30.8 per mil, respectively), with lower d13C variability across chain-lengths (2.6 ± 0.6 per mil and 2.0 ± 1.1 per mil, respectively). All individual plant-wax lipids show little temporal d13C variability throughout the time-series (1 Sigma <= 0.9 per mil), indicating that their stable carbon isotopes are not a sensitive tracer for temporal changes in plant-wax source in the Congo basin on seasonal to inter-annual timescales. Carbon-normalized concentrations and relative abundances of n-alcohols (19-58% of total plant-wax lipids) and n-alkanoic acids (26-76%) respond rapidly to seasonal changes in runoff, indicating that they are mostly derived from a recently entrained local source. In contrast, a lack of correlation with discharge and low, stable relative abundances (5-16%) indicate that n-alkanes better represent a catchment-integrated signal with minimal response to discharge seasonality. Comparison to published data on other large watersheds indicates that this phenomenon is not limited to the Congo River, and that analysis of multiple plant-wax lipid classes and chain lengths can be used to better resolve local vs. distal ecosystem structure in river catchments.

Tradução, adaptação cultural e propriedades psicométricas da versão brasileira do mobility assessment tool physical activity (MAT-PA) em idosos comunitários brasileiros

Objetivo: Traduzir e avaliar as propriedades psicométricas do Mobility Assessment Tool Physical Activity (MAT-PA) em idosos comunitários brasileiros. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo tradução, adaptação cultural, e acurácia do instrumento MAT-PA, no qual foram avaliados 329 idosos, com idade mínima de 60 anos, residentes na comunidade. Os indivíduos submeteram-se a um formulário de avaliação composto por: questionário sócio-demográfico e de saúde percebida; avaliação física; Prova Cognitiva de Leganés (PCL); Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D); International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ); Mobility Assessment Tool Physical Activity (MAT-PA). Dessa amostra total, 42 idosos utilizaram o acelerômetro durante 8 dias. Para verificar a confiabilidade teste-reteste do MAT-PA, reaplicou-se esse instrumento em 34 idosos 8 dias após a primeira avaliação. A análise estatística utilizada foi a correlação de Spearman, o Coeficiente de Correlação Intra-classe, o coeficiente α de Cronbach, o Bland-Altman e o teste T pareado. Resultados: As correlações dos dados IPAQ e acelerômetro versus o escore total do MAT-PA foram significativas e apresentaram um coeficiente de correlação de Spearman de 0,13 e 0,41, respectivamente. Analisou-se também a confiabilidade que apresentou as seguintes medidas: consistência interna, pelo coeficiente alfa de Cronbach (α= 0,70); Concordância teste-reteste, pelo coeficiente de correlação intra-classe (CCI=0,53; p<0,001). Conclusão: A versão brasileira do Mobility Assessment Tool Physical Activity (MAT-PA) como um instrumento de avaliação da atividade física de idosos, mostrou ser um método válido e confiável.

A compilation of global bio-optical in situ data for ocean-colour satellite applications

A compiled set of in situ data is important to evaluate the quality of ocean-colour satellite-data records. Here we describe the data compiled for the validation of the ocean-colour products from the ESA Ocean Colour Climate Change Initiative (OC-CCI). The data were acquired from several sources (MOBY, BOUSSOLE, AERONET-OC, SeaBASS, NOMAD, MERMAID, AMT, ICES, HOT, GeP&CO), span between 1997 and 2012, and have a global distribution. Observations of the following variables were compiled: spectral remote-sensing reflectances, concentrations of chlorophyll a, spectral inherent optical properties and spectral diffuse attenuation coefficients. The data were from multi-project archives acquired via the open internet services or from individual projects, acquired directly from data providers. Methodologies were implemented for homogenisation, quality control and merging of all data. No changes were made to the original data, other than averaging of observations that were close in time and space, elimination of some points after quality control and conversion to a standard format. The final result is a merged table designed for validation of satellite-derived ocean-colour products and available in text format. Metadata of each in situ measurement (original source, cruise or experiment, principal investigator) were preserved throughout the work and made available in the final table. Using all the data in a validation exercise increases the number of matchups and enhances the representativeness of different marine regimes. By making available the metadata, it is also possible to analyse each set of data separately.

Data on the biogeochemical cycle of methane in the ocean

Geological, mineralogical and microbiological aspects of the methane cycle in water and sediments of different areas in the oceans are under consideration in the monograph. Original and published estimations of formation- and oxidation rates of methane with use of radioisotope and isotopic methods are given. The role of aerobic and anaerobic microbial oxidation of methane in production of organic matter and in formation of authigenic carbonates is considered. Particular attention is paid to processes of methane transformation in areas of its intensive input to the water column from deep-sea hydrothermal sources, mud volcanoes, and cold methane seeps.

Contrôle pharmacologique de l'apoptose cardiovasculaire dans l'hypertension : implication de la voie de l'angiotensine et de la correction de la dysfonction endothéliale

Thèse numérisée par la Direction des bibliothèques de l'Université de Montréal.

Activation du système rénine-angiotensine pulmonaire et remodelage pulmonaire dans l'insuffisance cardiaque chronique

Mémoire numérisé par la Direction des bibliothèques de l'Université de Montréal.

Angiotensin receptors and β-catenin regulate brain endothelial integrity in malaria

Cerebral malaria is characterized by cytoadhesion of Plasmodium falciparum–infected red blood cells (Pf-iRBCs) to endothelial cells in the brain, disruption of the blood-brain barrier, and cerebral microhemorrhages. No available antimalarial drugs specifically target the endothelial disruptions underlying this complication, which is responsible for the majority of malaria-associated deaths. Here, we have demonstrated that ruptured Pf-iRBCs induce activation of β-catenin, leading to disruption of inter–endothelial cell junctions in human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMECs). Inhibition of β-catenin–induced TCF/LEF transcription in the nucleus of HBMECs prevented the disruption of endothelial junctions, confirming that β-catenin is a key mediator of P. falciparum adverse effects on endothelial integrity. Blockade of the angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1) or stimulation of the type 2 receptor (AT2) abrogated Pf-iRBC–induced activation of β-catenin and prevented the disruption of HBMEC monolayers. In a mouse model of cerebral malaria, modulation of angiotensin II receptors produced similar effects, leading to protection against cerebral malaria, reduced cerebral hemorrhages, and increased survival. In contrast, AT2-deficient mice were more susceptible to cerebral malaria. The interrelation of the β-catenin and the angiotensin II signaling pathways opens immediate host-targeted therapeutic possibilities for cerebral malaria and other diseases in which brain endothelial integrity is compromised.

Contrôle pharmacologique de l'apoptose cardiovasculaire dans l'hypertension : implication de la voie de l'angiotensine et de la correction de la dysfonction endothéliale

Thèse numérisée par la Direction des bibliothèques de l'Université de Montréal.

Activation du système rénine-angiotensine pulmonaire et remodelage pulmonaire dans l'insuffisance cardiaque chronique

Mémoire numérisé par la Direction des bibliothèques de l'Université de Montréal.

Efecto de diferentes programas de entrenamiento en sujetos con sobrepeso sedentarios

El propósito de este estudio es comprobar los efectos de diferentes planes de entrenamiento en la composición corporal y sobre factores de riesgo cardiovascular en sujetos con sobrepeso. La muestra está compuesta por 6 hombres sedentarios con sobrepeso. Considerando así, a aquellos sujetos con un IMC >25, un perímetro de cintura >88 cm y una ? de los 3 pliegues >57 (subescapular, abdominal y supraespinal). Es condición que no hayan realizado ejercicio sistemáticamente en los últimos 6 meses. Se pide a los participantes que no realicen cambios significativos en sus dietas. Todos adultos de entre 22 y 45 años de edad. La intervención dura 8 semanas, con una frecuencia de 3 veces por semana (lunes, miércoles y viernes). Se realizó a todos una evaluación de los siguientes parámetros de salud cardiovascular: colesterol total, perfil lipídico, tensión arterial, VO 2 máx., IMC, CCi/Ca, ? 3 pliegues cutáneos del tronco, antes y después de finalizar la intervención. Los 6 participantes fueron divididos aleatoriamente en 4 grupos: el grupo control que no realiza ningún plan de entrenamiento; el grupo de ejercicios de fuerza que realizó las primeras 2 semanas 8 ejercicios al 55 de la MR estimativa y las posteriores 6 semanas 10 ejercicios entre el 60 a 65 de la MR estimativa; el grupo de ejercicios aeróbicos que trabajó al 55 - 60 1del VO 2 máx. caminando de forma continua con un volumen de 30 a 40 minutos de duración por sesión; y por último, el grupo de entrenamiento mixto que alternó un día de trabajo de fuerza y un día aeróbico con la misma metodología descripta anteriormente

Efecto de diferentes programas de entrenamiento en sujetos con sobrepeso sedentarios

El propósito de este estudio es comprobar los efectos de diferentes planes de entrenamiento en la composición corporal y sobre factores de riesgo cardiovascular en sujetos con sobrepeso. La muestra está compuesta por 6 hombres sedentarios con sobrepeso. Considerando así, a aquellos sujetos con un IMC >25, un perímetro de cintura >88 cm y una ? de los 3 pliegues >57 (subescapular, abdominal y supraespinal). Es condición que no hayan realizado ejercicio sistemáticamente en los últimos 6 meses. Se pide a los participantes que no realicen cambios significativos en sus dietas. Todos adultos de entre 22 y 45 años de edad. La intervención dura 8 semanas, con una frecuencia de 3 veces por semana (lunes, miércoles y viernes). Se realizó a todos una evaluación de los siguientes parámetros de salud cardiovascular: colesterol total, perfil lipídico, tensión arterial, VO 2 máx., IMC, CCi/Ca, ? 3 pliegues cutáneos del tronco, antes y después de finalizar la intervención. Los 6 participantes fueron divididos aleatoriamente en 4 grupos: el grupo control que no realiza ningún plan de entrenamiento; el grupo de ejercicios de fuerza que realizó las primeras 2 semanas 8 ejercicios al 55 de la MR estimativa y las posteriores 6 semanas 10 ejercicios entre el 60 a 65 de la MR estimativa; el grupo de ejercicios aeróbicos que trabajó al 55 - 60 1del VO 2 máx. caminando de forma continua con un volumen de 30 a 40 minutos de duración por sesión; y por último, el grupo de entrenamiento mixto que alternó un día de trabajo de fuerza y un día aeróbico con la misma metodología descripta anteriormente

Efecto de diferentes programas de entrenamiento en sujetos con sobrepeso sedentarios

El propósito de este estudio es comprobar los efectos de diferentes planes de entrenamiento en la composición corporal y sobre factores de riesgo cardiovascular en sujetos con sobrepeso. La muestra está compuesta por 6 hombres sedentarios con sobrepeso. Considerando así, a aquellos sujetos con un IMC >25, un perímetro de cintura >88 cm y una ? de los 3 pliegues >57 (subescapular, abdominal y supraespinal). Es condición que no hayan realizado ejercicio sistemáticamente en los últimos 6 meses. Se pide a los participantes que no realicen cambios significativos en sus dietas. Todos adultos de entre 22 y 45 años de edad. La intervención dura 8 semanas, con una frecuencia de 3 veces por semana (lunes, miércoles y viernes). Se realizó a todos una evaluación de los siguientes parámetros de salud cardiovascular: colesterol total, perfil lipídico, tensión arterial, VO 2 máx., IMC, CCi/Ca, ? 3 pliegues cutáneos del tronco, antes y después de finalizar la intervención. Los 6 participantes fueron divididos aleatoriamente en 4 grupos: el grupo control que no realiza ningún plan de entrenamiento; el grupo de ejercicios de fuerza que realizó las primeras 2 semanas 8 ejercicios al 55 de la MR estimativa y las posteriores 6 semanas 10 ejercicios entre el 60 a 65 de la MR estimativa; el grupo de ejercicios aeróbicos que trabajó al 55 - 60 1del VO 2 máx. caminando de forma continua con un volumen de 30 a 40 minutos de duración por sesión; y por último, el grupo de entrenamiento mixto que alternó un día de trabajo de fuerza y un día aeróbico con la misma metodología descripta anteriormente