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Resúmenes

XI Encuentro de Investigadores

5 de abril de 2013

Abstracts

XI Researchers Annual Meeting

April 5th, 2013

Universidad del Turabo XI Encuentro de Investigadores/XI Researchers Annual Meeting

April 5th 2013 1

Business and Entrepreneurship EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE OF ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF AT PONTIFICAL CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF PUERTO RICO

Mei-Ling Velázquez Sepúlveda, Pontificia Universidad Carólica de Puerto Rico, Recinto de Mayagüez

This study aimed to explore the associations between emotional intelligence (IE), assessed using empathy coefficient and age, gender, educational background (academic preparation), annual income and amount of years of service as an administrative employee at Pontifical Catholic University of PR. One hundred and twelve (112) questionnaires were administered to administrative employees from the upper to lower hierarchy levels among the three campuses that comprise the PUCPR: Mayaguez, Ponce y Arecibo. Through this research can be concluded that age is a determinant factor in the empathy of the PUCPR Administrative Staff; however, I realized the investigation can’t conclude the influence of lived experiences with respect to chronological age and which of them has the greatest weight in the empathy level obtained. In contrary to the researcher’s hypothesis and many people’s assumption, academic preparation is not a determining factor in the empathy degree of the PUCPR Administrative Staff. Fifty-five (55) percent of Administrative Staff at Pontifical Catholic University demonstrate to have an empathy coefficient (CE) on average and thirty (30) percent above the average, allowing us to conclude that most of the administrative employees have emotional intelligence. The researcher agrees with Goleman (1997, 1998, 2000 & 2003), that a person’s emotional intelligence is necessary but not sufficient for labor success, so it would be advisable to identify the level of job satisfaction and promotions awarded to PUCPR Administrative employee staff with lower level of empathy.

INFORMATION SYSTEMS AS A COMPLEMENT TO ENHANCE THE TEACHING OF MATHEMATICS

Angel Ojeda, Universidad del Turabo

In this research we studied the academic performance of 1,028 college students in the discipline of mathematics. 484 students had knowledge of basic math skills and were previously taught mathematical content in a traditional classroom. Course content included 4 chapters of introduction to algebra. 544 students did not master basic math skills and were taught in a classroom with the use of an innovative technology for teaching mathematical content. The course content included 7 chapters of basic math and four chapters of beginning algebra. In the innovative approach, the students had access to an online platform where they could read the electronic notes and study examples from the course content, complete assignments and quizzes. The students could contact their professors 24 hours and 7 days a week. Professors had to respond to Emails and the student needed to visit a learning center that included the assistance of a different teacher who taught the course. Electronic lecture notes were prerequisites so the system could allow students to access the assignments; the assignments served as prerequisites to access the assigned quizzes. The teacher should answer students’ emails at least 24 hours after each communication. There were departmental exams and partial tests in both courses that


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were supervised by a professor. Although there was no significant difference when comparing both teaching methods with the use of a means test, there was a 5% difference in academic achievement in favor of the students who used the innovative method of teaching technology and with those who completed seven more chapters. Both methods of teaching were able to meet the required scheduled for the completion of the content in the same time period of 15 weeks.

ANALYSIS OF THE RELATIONSHIP OF FINANCIAL RATIOS AS PREDICTOR OF NET INCOME: A FACTORIAL ANALYSIS AND DATA PANEL

José Cruz, Universidad del Turabo

This paper attempts to find a relationship between the results of the financial ratios and results in net income of companies classified as S & P 500. Experts believe that the financial ratios provide a snapshot of financial condition at a particular time, while providing a clear picture of the economic performance of the company. For that reason, this paper examines the results of accounting indicators, better known as financial indices, and the auditor's opinion as a tool for the impact on the net income of the company are classified as S & P 500 for the years 1990 through 2010. This thesis investigates in a novel way the relationship between financial ratios and net income. For this we use an unprecedented methodology and recommended by previous research which includes the following elements: 1. Use economic factors as suggested by real net income. Said economic factors are interest rate, economic growth, inflation and more. 2. Factor analysis is used because the multicolineality. Also, it recommends that research is conducted for multiple categories and that these companies have a global presence. 3. Using the actual net income as suggested should be done in future research. 4. Statistical analysis is free of errors that lead to incorrect interpretations because with zero denominators, very high standard deviation and normal distribution of the data. 5. This research contains the following industries; Public Administration, Services, Finance, Insurance, Home Sales, Retail Sales, Manufacturing, Transportation, Communications, Electric, Gas, and Sanitary Services, Wholesale, Construction, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.

CONSUMER PERCEPTIONS OF PRIVATE BRANDS VS MANUFACTURERS BRANDS: A MULTIVARIATE MODEL

Juan Sosa Varela Carlos, Universidad del Turabo; Angie Lugo, Universidad del Turabo; Juan Osorio, Universidad del Turabo; Edgar Rodríguez, Universidad del Turabo; Rafael Vázquez, Universidad del Turabo

Recently, around the world, Private Label (PL) brands are known to be quickly growing in sales, and this represents big challenges for National Brands (NB). A major question that rises is if consumers are willing to continue paying a price premium for their NB, while economy is clearly not flourishing. Even though consumers recognize quality differences between PL and NB, they switch to PL because of the healing it provides to their pockets. This implicates more marketing efforts from the NB’s to build up


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their brand equities and loyalties. Also, it is known that PL products increase retailer’s power over suppliers in the vertical and horizontal channels. All of this puts NB manufacturers in a tough position where they have to look for alternatives to compensate for their decreasing sales volumes. Many have opted to increase their price premiums over PL’s so they can retain or grow their profits regardless of the drops in sales volumes. The purpose of this study is to understand more deeply what drives consumers to make their decision between PL’s or NB’s. This can be accomplished in two ways; first, we studied which of the marketing efforts affect more the decision of a consumer in the point of sale (POS), then we studies which other factors can influence on this decision. Finally, we range all of these factors to see which are the ones that weigh the highest at the moment of purchase of PL brand or NB. That data was obtained through the use of a questionnaire provided to a convenience sample. A total of 350 questionnaires were filled. The results indicate that social aspects, budget, price consciousness, store image and experience are related positively with positive attitudes of manufacturer’s brands. By other hand, private brand quality, risk, budget, experience and price consciousness are related with positive attitudes of private brands.

DETERMINANTS OF BUYER-SUPPLIER RELATIONSHIP OF PUERTO RICAN SMES: AN EXTENDED APPROACH

Juan Carlos Sosa Varela, Universidad del Turabo; Goran Svensson, Oslo School of Management; Jessica González Solis, Universidad del Turabo; Diana Marie Luna, Universidad del Turabo; Alisyadhira Machado, Universidad del Turabo; Reynaldo Santiago, Universidad del Turabo

The purpose of this study is to test an extension of the relationship quality model (RELQUAL), in the buyer-supplier relationship of Puerto Rico’s small and medium size enterprises (SMEs). Specifically relate the extended Relqual model on economic and non-economic satisfaction in puertorrican business relationships. The data was obtained through the use of a questionnaire provided to a convenience sample of 200 SMEs in Puerto Rico using online survey software or by physical contact. A total of 60 questionnaires were filled for an overall response rate of 30.0%. Results obtained can be summarized in two statements: cooperation, coordination, abilities, management skills, norms and values, commitment, continuity, respect, integrity, empathy, ethics codes, conflict levels and service quality are related positively with non- economic satisfaction. By other hand, cooperation, coordination, abilities, and continuity are related with economic satisfaction. Although the multiple statistical analysis performed confirmed the significance of the extended RELQUAL model, findings are accurate for Puerto Rico’s SMEs; to prove worldwide validity it should be tested in other countries. This study contributes to theory by identifying the constructs that influence buyer’s perceived economic and non-economic satisfaction of the relationship with the supplier in Puerto Rico’s SMEs. Also it benefits Puerto Rico’s SME owners by providing a guide of the key elements they need to consider to develop and maintain a quality relationship with their supplier in which satisfaction is achieved


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EFFECTS OF PERCEIVED JUSTICE AND NEGATIVE EMOTIONS ON SATISFACTION: A CROSS-INDUSTRY

Juan Carlos Sosa Varela, Universidad del Turabo; María de los M. Santos Corrada, Universidad del Turabo; Goran Svensson, Oslo School of Management; José Beuchamp, Universidad del Turabo; James Boyer, Universidad del Turabo; Luis Cardona, Universidad del Turabo

The objective of this research is to map the constructs of justice and emotions in services industries in Puerto Rico. Based on papers published in a tourism context and as a part of an international team of researchers, data from banking, restaurants and retailing industries provide data to map the effects of perceived justice and negative emotions on customer behavior, specifically in satisfaction and loyalty. A descriptive research design was followed and a self-administered questionnaire was applied to gather the data from respondents. A total number of 753 useable questionnaires were obtained in services settings across samples: (i) 346 in banking; (ii) 198 in retail stores; and (iii) 209 in restaurants. The findings aimed to map the relationship between justice, negative emotions and behavior. Also, the findings may help services industries to deliver more just service, and discover gaps in their current service. Additionally, the findings can be used to develop strategies to manage negative emotions, and to predict customer behavior after a negative incident. Service providers need to manage and deal with the perceived justice and negative emotions in service failures in an appropriate manner. It is necessary that the front line staff identify and understand the reasons behind service receiver’s negative emotions in service failures, and that they act accordingly in order to reduce the intensity of critical incidents and the overall negative consequences.

THE IMPACT OF STRATEGIC HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ON ORGANIZATIONAL PERFORMANCE

Rosaliz Santiago, Universidad del Turabo; Juan Carlos Sosa Varela, Universidad del Turabo; Francisco Rivera, Universidad del Turabo; José Aguilar, Universidad Antonio de Nebrija, Madrid, España

The purpose of this paper is to measure the impact of Human Resources Management on organizational performance in the context of Puerto Rico. The initial sampling frame comprises 1,000 human resource directors of different companies in Puerto Rico. A self-administered questionnaire was applied to gather the data from respondents. A total number of 370 useable questionnaires were obtained, with a response rate of 37%. A structural equation model approach was conducted to analyze the results. The results indicated that the relationship between the human resource management, the human resources strategic integration, human resources policies, performance human resources, knowledge management and organizational performance impact positively to business results. This study is of managerial interest to human resource executives since it provides a framework of constructs to be considered in strategic human resource management, especially in Puerto Rican companies. It may also be applicable in a diverse sector and countries. Finally, this study makes a contribution to theory since it proposes important relationship dimensions and measurement instrument for the benefit of other researchers and practitioners in the field.


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DEVELOPMENT OF THE HUMAN CAPITAL FROM THE FAMILY ORGANIZATION WITH THE INTERVENTION OF THE INDUSTRIAL ORGANIZATION PSYCHOLOGY IN A GROUP OF FAMILIES FROM NORTH AND SOUTH OF PUERTO RICO

Sandra Velez Candelario, Universidad del Turabo; Ilia Rosario, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Puerto Rico; Vivian Méndez, Pfizer Pharmaceutical; Legna Vargas, Universidad de Puerto Rico

This study introduced the applied theories of the I/O psychology in the family organization to identify their organizational behavior and how this develops their human capital and productivity in their daily life. These theories include the Organizational Development Theory that usually observes the organizational behavior in the formal organization that in this case is used to observe OD in the informal organization called family. This was an exploratory and qualitative study with a systemic base of the Fundamental Theory. It also considers the Administration of the General Administration Theory, the Human Relations Theory and the Group Dynamics to apply the triangulation methodology in the results analysis. A central category was used for the evaluation of the organization type by separating the families in two categories: Productive Family and Unproductive Family. The organization formats, emotions and the feelings that those types of families stimulate in their members and how these affect the family member’s productivity levels in school and workplace were analyzed. The findings were analyzed (using triangulation technique, literature, theories and acquired information review), indicate that the organizational areas of an appropriately recognized formal organization are present in the informal organization called Family. It also indicates that there are clear differences in the two sub-categories evaluated: Productive Family and Unproductive Family. These findings confirm the stipulations of the theories under evaluation. The productive family functionality is more aligned to the scientific findings in the Organizational Development Theory, by developing in their group a properly stimulating environment in their family Organization therefore increasing the productivity levels of their adult and young human capital. Unproductive families were not in alignment with the scientific findings in the Organizational Development Theory, since their group developed an environment totally out of control therefore decreasing the productivity levels in their adults and young human capital.

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE FEMALE ENTREPRENEUR OF PUERTO RICO

Virgin Dones, Universidad del Turabo; Maribel Ortiz Soto, Universidad del Turabo

Entrepreneurship is the alternative that many women are considering, since it allow them to balance work with family while complies with the business. In Puerto Rico there has been a significant increase of businesses managed by woman, but very little has been studied on the characteristics of these entrepreneurs. The main objective of this investigation is to identify the profile of puertorrican women entrepreneur, their challenges, needs and effect of the external factor that stimulate business creation. The aim of the research is to identifying specific characteristics of the factors associated with entrepreneurship in the context of the businesses managed by women. The populations for this descriptive investigation were women owners of the east- center zone of Puerto Rico. The sample was composed of 173 women owners of small and medium businesses of different industrial sectors. The


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study demonstrates that the majority of the women have created their business from the initial idea. The factors that most stimulates the creation is the need to achieve a personal goal and initiative. The mentality of the woman is one of the most important factors that prompt them to the creation and growth of their businesses. They all have had to face challenges and difficulties. They considered that the process of creating a new business is not an easy task. Even when the businesses are small enterprises, they are solid businesses that have 5 or more years of operations. The contribution of the investigation is to create awareness of the importance of segmenting the small and medium businesses, paying specific attention to the female businesses helping them to develop strategies that allow them to grow and be successful.

MARKETING IN SOCIAL ENTERPRISES IN PUERTO RICO

Katiria Figueroa Medina, Universidad del Turabo; Jaime Olivieri Barrios, Universidad del Turabo; Maribel Ortiz Soto, Universidad del Turabo

Through time, social enterprises have required more of the adoption of methods and strategies of the traditional business world, with the hope to improve their performance and to increase their sales. According to Díaz (2005), most social enterprises are born as micro-businesses and to be self-sustainable they need to generate sales through the traditional business management. The tool that will allow them to achieve their sales objectives is the use of marketing. Objective: Evaluate the knowledge that social enterprises in Puerto Rico have of the discipline of the marketing and to identify the marketing tools used by them. Methodology: Through a method of multicases, eight social enterprises of different industrial sectors and geographical areas of Puerto Rico were compared. The sample was composed of social businesses with five years or more of operation, in which the main mission was to satisfy the needs of social groups and were at least, 60% economically self-sustained. Results: Entrepreneurs/ managers recognize that marketing is essential for the growth of the business. They see it as a necessary tool, but the majority do not use marketing in their business since exists a lack of knowledge to handle it in a structured and effective form. Most owners consider marketing as a promotional strategy for their product. The managers of the social enterprises lack knowledge on marketing, for which the utilization of this tool is general than specific; the use of marketing is more spontaneous and informal. The research suggests that there is a gap between the theoretical, traditional marketing and the marketing used in the social enterprises. Contribution: Stimulate government to joint with the universities, to develop strategies that help social enterprises to be more competitive.


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THE IMPACT OF SERVICE QUALITY AND BENEFITS ON CUSTOMER LOYALTY

Evelyn Lopez Gonzalez, Universidad del Turabo; Juan Carlos Sosa, Univesidad del Turabo; Maribel Ortiz, Universidad del Turabo; Virgin Dones, Universidad del Turabo

We develop a multivariable model, which incorporates SERVQUAL constructs models, SERVLOYAL and Integration Benefits Models to analyze how the customer perception between services and benefits influence the loyalty behavior between commercial banks and Credit Unions customers. The main objective of this research is to determine how the customer's perception of services and benefits impacts their loyalty behavior. Is crucial to see the company through the eyes of the consumer, behind the measurement of customer perceptions and preferences the companies can predict consumer behavior. The investigation is based on the need for companies to create value for customers; the world economy has quickly become a service-oriented economy. This leads companies to focus more on customer service. The service should be seen as a way to create value for companies, the value must be created from the perspective of customer perception. The research design is based on the use of a structured questionnaire with a 5-point Likert scale, where (1) = strongly disagree and (5) = strongly agree, to gather the opinions of 456 customers of commercial banks and Credit Unions in Puerto Rico. This was done using a multivariate model, which is measured by the customer's perception of service value from two approaches, service quality and relationship benefits. The purpose is to compare two similar financial services sectors but with so different philosophies. Through this research it was established that there is a positive correlation between customer satisfaction and customer loyalty behavior. The findings on this model are consonant with the literature, which states that when a customer is satisfied with the service received, generates positive recommendations to other people in the family, community or workplace.

THE ROLES, BEHAVIORS AND PARTICIPATION OF FOREIGN SUBSIDIARY EXECUTIVES IN THE AFFILIATE DIVESTMENT DECISION PROCESS

Luis M. Baquero-Rosas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Puerto Rico

This paper examines the roles, behaviors and participation of foreign subsidiaries’ executives during the divestment decision process. This paper lists all the activities to be performed by executives of the subsidiaries and plant managers in the implementation stage of the divestiture of a manufacturing affiliate. It also shows that executives take the lead and total control of the activities for implementing the decision to divest and important responsibilities that exist after the final execution of the operations of affiliates. Therefore, in this study, the term foreign subsidiary manager or executive is used to refer to research participants who have a managerial position in the subsidiary divested. Face-to-face interviews were chosen as the primary method of data collection. It allowed probing questions to get more in-depth information because not enough data was found in written documentation to fully address the research questions. We provide evidence that suggests affiliate executives had an important participation in the different stages of the divestment decision process. The attitudes of executives ranged from considering themselves part of a global management team to warriors in charge of


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defending their proposed operations against aggressive subsidiaries, and use they cunning to achieve power coalitions with head offices to be able to generate creative and innovative ideas to survive. We find that, in the implementation stage of the divestiture of the local subsidiary, managers are fully responsible for the design and implementation of activities for the termination of production operations in manufacturing plants. We also found that executives have responsibilities after the cessation of production operations. In some cases they are responsible for keeping plants in good shape, and in other cases they are considered responsible for finding new buyers for the plants to resume production operations.

WHAT IS CULTURE

Antonio Lebrón Rolón, Sistema Ana G. Mendez-Programa Ahora

The definition of culture is an important term to define in sociology, psychology, political sciences, anthropology, international business and cross cultural studies. It is quite difficult to find a terminology. The paper covers the definition of Culture, Cultural Challenges and Globalization and Culture. In 1952, the American anthropologists, Kroeber and Kluckhohn, critically reviewed concepts and definitions of culture, and compiled a list of 164 different definitions. Apte (1994:2001), writing in the ten-volume Encyclopedia of Language and Linguistics, summarizes the problem as follows: Despite a century of efforts to define culture adequately, there was in the early 1990s no agreement among anthropologists regarding its nature. The use of this paper is to facilitate future researchers the finding of the definition of culture.

MARKETING MANAGER'S RESPONSIBILITIES WITHIN THE FIRM: A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY OF PUERTO RICO'S SUCCESSFUL COMPANIES.

Frank Lozada-Contreras, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Puerto Rico

The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between the level of responsibility of the marketing manager about the marketing functions in Puertorrican companies and marketing metrics. There is a debate in the marketing literature about the decline of the functions performed by marketing managers within companies. This has been recognized in a limited number of empirical researches, as Gok and Hacioglu, (2009) indicate there are few formal investigations which have been conducted on the role of marketing within organizations. Verhoef and Leeflang (2010) and Verhoef et al. (2011) indicate that although there are many theoretical studies on what is the role of the marketing department in companies, these studies lack empirical basis. The research objectives of this study were: (1) Determine the level of responsibility of marketing managers on marketing functions within Puertorrican companies. (2) Determine the level of responsibility of the managers of other departments within the company. (3) Determine the relationship between the functions that perform marketing managers in Puertorrican companies and marketing metrics. Among the most significant findings are:


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First, the marketing manager has a significant level of responsibility on the marketing functions established by marketing literature. Second, the marketing executive shares the responsibility of some of the marketing functions with senior management. Third, contrary to what was stated in the literature, the marketing manager has influence over strategic marketing decisions within organizations. Fourth, the marketing manager uses marketing metrics as a tool to measure the effectiveness of marketing activities and strategies.

REGIONAL INNOVATION LEADERSHIP/COMMUNITIES OF PRACTICE/KNOWLEDGE HUBS

Jesús Rodríguez Carriles, Universidad del Turabo

Information and communication technologies are the tools through which we integrate knowledge essential for communities of practice, creating regional innovation initiatives. Our work evaluates the conditions associated with the access of information that these communities have and the logical and topological limitations presented and the methods suitable to address the situation. Our thesis addresses the needs of isolated communities dedicated to the development of agricultural artisanal products. Our objectives are; •Evaluate access of information resources in the studied communities •Evaluate level of understanding and familiarization with Information and Communications resources such as internet and basic web and email access. •Propose methods to improve topology and education of these communities. • Design the networking environment required by these communities •Basic design of the knowledge hub data base to safeguard and distribute the artisanal specialized knowledge used by these communities in the process of cultivation and manufacturing of coffee products. Our Principal Hypothesis states that; CoP do not possess the level of technological access and skills to maximize resources and information utilization. Methodology; Development of a scientific instrument (survey) to measure the level of access to information. Network Design to promote access to information in the community. Analysis of required skills to use information effectively for small enterprising. Since knowledge, particularly specialized artisan knowledge is a national value to be preserved and distributed to those in need, we also proposed the preliminary design of the knowledge hub data base to contain these resources (intelligence DB). Our mentor is Dr. Rafael M. Rivera of the Institute of Telecommunications, School of Engineering, UT.

SOCIAL AND CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY AS A VALUE INDEX

Ramón Torres, Universidad Interamericana de PR

We present a study of the process of cultural development in the individual as being of society and business. In turn, this impacts the formation of corporate values training, recognition of social responsibility and the establishment of sound corporate governance policies as a means of preventing occupational fraud. This discussion is contrasted with trends toward administrative deviations occurred in both the United States and internationally. Using the model of Patel (2003), measuring three


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dimensions are particularly under represented as multidimensional ethics and variable attributes or Reidenbach and Robin (1988). These are the moral relativism and contractualism. These dimensions have been postulated as critical in determining the ethical content of business situations. The study may shed-relevant questions for discussion in the corporate and academic. The completion of the study may lead to further studies, the academic and corporate, they can identify trends, and guidance on establishing internal controls as standards or guidelines for a healthy development of corporate governance standards, applicable and suited to our culture and social realities. In the same way, this type of study can assist international companies interested in settling in Puerto Rico to determine local requirements regarding this area, as discussed. It can be an educational tool to expand the dissemination of internal control measures and solid fundamentals in formulating corporate value structures and hence corporate governance, supported values management as a competitive advantage, as postulated. Following the study formulates a business value index for SMEs Southern PR.

THE EFFECT OF THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC-CENTRAL AMERICA FREE TRADE AGREEMENT (DR-CAFTA) IN THE ECONOMICAL DEVELOPMENT OF PUERTO RICO

Greighton F. Torres Rodríguez, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Puerto Rico; Ángel Antonio Rivera Domínguez, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Puerto Rico

The United States Government’s effort to secure the establishment of the DR-CAFTA began negotiations in January 2003. In January 2004, an agreement was reached with a bloc consisting of El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. In 2004, negotiations began with the Dominican Republic, which was not involved in the negotiating bloc. In May 2004, to establish the trade and economic policy of the United States and the Central America, they signed the terms agreed upon at the headquarters of the Organization of American States (OAS) in Washington, DC. Then, in August 2004, the Dominican government did the same. The study aims to analyze the effect of economics and labor issues on the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico as well as on the U.S. Virgin Islands, which has the American ports closer to the region. This study seeks to determine measures to maintain the competitiveness of local businesses. It aims to know the public policy and opinion of local businesses with the DR-CAFTA, besides knowing the legal and economic limitations or opportunities Puerto Rico has in the market. We selected a sample population of 10 persons. These are professionals and/or academicians in the field of economy, politics, history, international relations, and/or international business. Semistructured interviews were performed on these subjects. This study is an exploratory design with a qualitative approach. The DR-CAFTA’s entry into force is seen as the region’s economies grow, unlike ours. This implies that we should be more marketable in the world and must seek to broaden our economic sovereignty. To participate in the global economy, we must improve our education system and seek investments in the Caribbean. These are among the topics discussed in this paper. To fully include Puerto Rico in the global economy, the following are necessary: (1) Improve the education system. From elementary grades, bilingualism must be promoted, and students should be encouraged and offered opportunities to learn a third language. From elementary grades, agriculture, trade, production, and knowledge about the globalized system must be emphasized. Specialized


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technicians fields must also be improved. (2) Find new, innovative, and sophisticated business models. (3) Analyze the relevant studies on profit or loss on the cabotage laws. (4) The government and businesses must invest in the Caribbean. All available resources on the current political status and economic progress of Puerto Rico suggest that the situation is temporary and allow the people to express their own opinions on the issue.

IDENTIFICATION OF SUCCESS FACTORS IN A SAMPLE OF THE EASTERN CENTRAL REGION OF PUERTO RICO

Carlos G. Colón-Bermúdez Universidad del Turabo

Small businesses play a major role in the economy of the country, especially for its contribution to job creation and economic development of the community where they are located. But this business is characterized by high rates of mortality. The PR government has sought alternatives to prevent mortality of small businesses and to keep the strategy of creating and developing new business and reduce unemployment. The problem of lack of research on possible success factors in small business PR and if these factors are crucial to maintain continuity and competitiveness in the market was raised. The research results include the existence of a positive correlation between the internal factors of success and effectiveness. There is statistically significant evidence that the determinants of success are: Keep a commercial structure with proper facilities and a location accessible to the public; Maintain a team with people with responsibility, initiative and skills and communication skills, organization, production and marketing, the business owner and the team must maintain basic academic preparation and appropriate experience, the business owner must maintain confidence, willingness to take risks, resistance to stress and pressure, vitality and enthusiasm; the business owner must maintain skills and abilities in the area of finance and management. The conclusions drawn from the research results suggest that small business owners should improve their knowledge in the functional areas of organizational capacity of their businesses. In addition, owners must increase the use of existing support measures public and private that could result in improved business efficiencies.

ART STIMULATES CD4 CEL COUNTS IN PATIENTS WITH HIV

Graciela Lodeiro, Instituto de Cultura Puertorriqueña

Investigating the effect of Ergotherapy, through the implementation of different artistic techniques, and exploring its correlation with the production of s T CD4 limphocytes (CD4) cell counts in HIV/AIDS patients. The CD4 measurement is an indicator of the progress of this health condition. During 2007-2008, the “Arts for Healing Project” developed twelve (12) art workshops in nineteen (19) health centers in Puerto Rico. These workshops used brushes, mud and the power of word, among other creative techniques, empowering HIV/AIDS patients to struggle with their stress, sense of isolation and guilt feelings. One hundred twenty six (126) individuals were involved: eighty-seven (87) men and thirty-nine


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(39) women. Twenty (20) subjects were selected within this universe, to monitor the effects of Ergotherapy on CDH cells counting. Twelve (12) of the studied subjects observed a 60% increment in their CD4 cells rate, thus benefiting their immune response and demonstrating that art can be a perfect complement to the pharmacological treatment for HIV/AIDS patients. Ergotherapy has a positive effect on the immune system increasing production of CD4 cell counts in HIV/AIDS patients.

HUMAN CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT FROM THE FAMILIAR ORGANIZATION WITH THE STATEMENT OF INDUSTRIAL / ORGANIZATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY IN A GROUP OF FAMILIES IN THE AREA SOUTH AND NORTH OF PUERTO RICO

Sandra Vélez Candelario, Universidad del Turabo; Ilia Rosario, Universidad del Turabo

The following study used theories applied in Industrial / Organizational Psychology. He inquired about the existence and characteristics of the organizational areas properly recognized in formal organizations in the informal organization called family with the application of the Theory of Organizational Development. We conducted a qualitative exploratory study with a systematic database design. We considered the General Theory of Administration, Human Relations Theory and Group Dynamics by the measure of triangulation in the analysis of the findings. Was used to analyze a central category, type of organization dividing it into two categories; Family Productive and unproductive. We analyzed the organizational formats, feelings and emotions in those formats encourage its members and how they are reflected in their levels of labor productivity and academic. Findings were analyzed using the technique of triangulation, literature review, theories and information acquired. Finally found all organizational areas properly recognized in the formal organization in the informal organization family. Similarly it was found that there were differences between the clearly expressed sub-categories analyzed in the two categories, families Productive vs. the unproductive. Finally confirmed the postulates of the theories applied. The category of productive families worked more parallel to the scientific findings of the Organizational Development Theory creating a stimulating environment for productivity, while generating productive not a totally opposite.


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Education EIGHT STEPS FOR A RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT: THE PROACTIVE APPROACH

Walter López Moreno, Universidad del Turabo

A research paper can follow two paths, the reactive search for a topic without consulting clients and the proactive approach in which customers indicate their needs. Clients can be found in academia, government, society, academic journals, conferences, professional associations and businesses. According to Svensson (2009) we must define first what contribution the customer wants and then in what results and recommendations we should concentrate. The objective of the work was to develop a research model that proactively resolves the students recurring difficulties during the course of the scholarly studies. The sample included 320 students at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels of public and private institutions in Puerto Rico. Among the outstanding results we found that students have great difficulty in defining the research topic. A majority had a difficulty in the development of conclusions, recommendations, research questions relate to the objectives and corresponding variables among others. The steps recommended for investigation in the proactive orientation, reduce the difficulties in the development of the research are: 1 to adopt the theme, 2 raise the contribution, 3 Submit the structure, 4 organize resources , 5 elaborate implications, 6 explore on the topic, 7 research design and 8 show the results.

EXPERIENCES OF VIOLENCE IN DATING RELATIONSHIPS OF WOMEN IN PUERTO RICO DURING THEIR ADOLESCENCE.

Nayda E. Morales Díaz, Departament of Education

Intimate partner violence is recognized as an epidemic, in which women are mostly the victims and men the perpetrators. However, dating violence in great measure has been neglected or ignored as a form of violence. In Puerto Rico, dating violence hardly has been studied, although police statistics (tendenciaspr.com) indicate that young people are increasingly involved in intimate partner violence. Therefore, the purpose of the present research is to describe and explore the experiences of violence in dating relationships from the perspective of adult women who were reflecting on their adolescent years. This research concludes with a set of recommendations based on those results and the extant literature.


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IMPACT OF ¡CIENCIA BORICUA! ON ELEMENTARY AND MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS’ PERCEPTION OF SCIENCE

Wilson J. González-Espada, Morehead State University, Ciencia Puerto Rico; Yaihara Fortis-Santiago, American Association for the Advancement of Science, Ciencia Puerto Rico; Giovanna Guerrero-Medina, Ciencia Puerto Rico; Nicole M. Ortiz-Vega, Center for Evaluation and Sociomedical Research, UPR Medical Sciences Campus; Daniel Colón-Ramos, Yale School of Medicine, Ciencia Puerto Rico; Mónica Feliú-Mójer, Harvard Medical School, Ciencia Puerto Rico

In Puerto Rico, many science textbooks are translations of materials developed in the United States. Although researchers have argued that textbooks should be customized to local cultures and experiences, they rarely are. Ciencia Puerto Rico, a non-profit group interested in promoting science literacy and education, identified a need to provide teachers and students with culturally relevant materials. The result of the organization’s efforts was the publication of the book ¡Ciencia Boricua!, an anthology of sixty-one short essays in Spanish written by Puerto Rican scientists or about science in Puerto Rico. A grant from Fundación Banco Popular de Puerto Rico supported the introduction of ¡Ciencia Boricua! to 57 elementary and middle school students from Escuela Juan Ponce de León in Guaynabo. Over the course of a semester, the students completed a number of interactive activities that complemented the mandated curriculum. Throughout the project implementation, quantitative and qualitative data was collected and analyzed using written surveys and interviews. The results of the pre- and post-test comparison showed high normalized gains in items related to interest in current science events, how interesting science work is, and the importance of science in society. There were moderate normalized gains in items related to interest in new scientific discoveries, learning Puerto Rican science, and interest in Puerto Rican science and scientists. Students also appraised their visit to the laboratory and the scientist visiting the school as an overwhelmingly positive experience. Surprisingly, while the project improved the perception of science among female students, a similar result was not found among male students. We demonstrated that the implementation of culturally relevant science curricula can be a tool to keep minority students interested in science by portraying this discipline as relatable to the students’ experience and community.

LITERACY: THE FIRST STEPS TOWARDS SOCIAL TRANSFORMATION IN LATIN AMERICA

Maribel Aponte Rodríguez, Universidad Central de Bayamón

“Literacy: The first steps towards social transformation in Latin America” is a historical research that lets us know the details of the implementation of the literacy program conducted in Venezuela. On 1 July 2003, the Bolivarian Government of Venezuela launched its National Literacy Plan through the creation of the "Mision Robinson" and the program "Yo, sí puedo". The methodology used for this purpose was designed in Cuba and awarded twice by UNESCO because of its social impact and its effectiveness in learning their users. The method has been designed for adults who initiate a learning process late and who crave immediate or short-term achievements. "Mision Robinson" allowed Venezuela in October 28, 2005 to be declared "Territory Free of Illiteracy". According to UNESCO, a country or territory falls into


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this category if more than 96% of the population over age 15 are literate. Venezuela managed to alphabetize a million people in the first year and the remaining five hundred thousand in the second year. It is understood that education and specifically literacy, is the first step towards the human liberation. Man becomes an entity that emerges from darkness to light. Discover the world from literacy and then continues to discover new meanings to his words. This process will lead to the development of new informal leaders in many cases, able to work in social reconstruction. Venezuela is currently working closely with other Latin American countries to achieve the eradication of illiteracy in South America. For this reason, it is understood that the National Literacy Plan, established in Venezuela by President Hugo Chavez has been a key figure in the beginning of the social transformation of Venezuela and Latin America.

PERCEPTION OF UNIVERSITY’S COUNSELORS ABOUT THEIR PRACTICES AS TRANSFORMATIVE LEADERS

Elba J. Guzmán-Faría, Unversidad del Turabo

Perceptions of counselors regarding practices that demonstrate leadership in educational settings have been absent from the Counseling profession’s speech. In recent years there has been a consistent call for counselors to become leaders within educational environments in order to advance the profession, improve the academic achievement of students, and enhance effectiveness of Counseling Centers. Many counselors do not see themselves as educational leaders; therefore, there is a need to assess the benefits of developing leadership skills in order to incorporate them to the counselors’ preparation and work practice. This qualitative research sought to explore – by means of a case study design – the perceptions of a selection of counselors of the public university of Puerto Rico, about their practices as transformational leaders. The conceptual framework for this study is based on the theory of Transformational Leadership. The selection of the participants was intentional, consisting of five female counselors of diverse units of the public university of Puerto Rico. The researcher utilized the semi-structured in-depth interview as a primary source of data collection. Data were coded and organized according to the four research questions that served as guide for the study. The analysis and interpretation of the findings was organized by broad categories within each of the four research questions. The results provided an increased understanding of the phenomenon of counselors as transformational leaders and the perception they have on practices that define them as educational leaders. Transformational leadership seems to embrace the new vision of counselors, which emphasizes an active, dynamic, collaborative and advocate role using comprehensive counseling programs to promote positive outcomes for students. Recommendations are offered to the counseling profession, and to the Academy for the establishment of public policy and for future research.


April 5th 2013 16

PERCEPTION OF VISUAL ART TEACHERS ABOUT THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE BLACK IMAGE IN THE PAINTINGS OF SOME PUERTORRICAN ARTISTS: IMPLICATIONS FOR A MULTICULTURAL/MULTIRACIAL ART EDUCATION PROGRAM IN PUERTO RICO

Lilliam Lara Fonseca, Universidad del Turabo

Puerto Rico is defined by its ethnic and “racial” diversity. In this scenario is relevant to investigate the perception of the art educator about the representation of the black image in works of some puertorrican artists. Specifically, the study considered the perception of 39 visual art teachers. For such purposes, the researcher designed a measurement instrument (questionnaire) based on the principles of semantic differentiation technique, where the teachers evaluated seven emblematic works of art. The pieces (paintings) selected for the investigation were: “Goyita”(1957) of Rafael Tufiño, “Offering to the Sacred Family”(1778-80) of José Campeche, “The Wake” (ca. 1883-1893) of Francisco Oller, “The school of the teacher Rafael Cordero” (ca. 1890- 1892) of Francisco Oller, “The last harvest”(1977) of Osiris Delgado, “Black Majesty”(1958) of Rafael Tufiño and The “Bomba” Dance, num. 1, ca. 1959 of Epifanio Irizarry. The study revealed that the teachers of public and private schools had a high moderate perception about the construction of the black image considering the total arithmetic medium of all the pieces selected for the study, with a ( = 44.53). It is also relevant to note that Goyita (1957) of Rafael Tufiño, was the only painting that had a high perception of the participants, with a ( = 52.41). The investigation evidenced the nonexistence of a significant statistic relation between the perception and the sociodemographic variables of the participants. It also indicated that there was no significant statistical difference between the perception of the teachers and their sociodemographic variables. As the findings of the study were analyzed they justified the implementation of a multiracial and multicultural approach in the fine arts curriculum of Puerto Rico.

PREDOMINANT LEADERSHIP STYLES OF EDUCATIONAL SUPERVISORS AND THE RELATIONSHIP WITH JOB SATISFACTION LEVEL OF TEACHERS IN HEAD START PROGRAM OF THE ADMINISTRATION FOR CHILDREN’S AND FAMILIES (ACUDEN) OF PUERTO RICO.

Waleska Torres-Gutiérrez, Universidad del Turabo

The purpose of the research was to determine predominant leadership style in educational supervisors and its relationship with job satisfaction level of teachers. Itw as justified with the necessity to provide empirical evidence to ACUDEN about variables theme. Also, to design a questionnaire to get the empirical data and qualitative data to be analyzed during the research process. The theorical frame was centered in three theories: Two factors theory of Herzberg (1977); Situational leadership theory from Hersey and Blanchard (1982) and Z Theory of Ouchi (1985). The methodology of the research was quantitative with a descriptive correlational design. The population used was the supervisors, teachers and support team in the Head Start Program of ACUDEN in Puerto Rico The data was collected in the Leadership styles and job satisfaction questionnaire (LINSALWAT). It was analyzed using the program SPSS version 17.0. We used descriptive statistic, ANOVA, Pearson correlation and we established alpha level of .05, even the research wasn’t quasi- experimental or experimental one. Otherwise, the


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qualitative aspect was added to the research and the themes selected by the sample was communications skills, support of supervisors, materials to be used with the kids on time, conflict management and ethics in the educational and administrative process. We conclude that the predominant leadership style of educational supervisors was supportive and it will have to strengthen interpersonal relations. Also conclude that the job satisfaction level of teachers, help ACUDEN to gave quality services to the children they have served. The delegate agencies don’t have any changes with the administrative transformation of ACUDEN. Supportive leadership style was help to have a high job satisfaction level in teacher what show an organizational behavior apparent appropriate. We design for this research the questionnaire and a model to Maintenance an Ideal Organizational Behavior to Head Start Program.

STUDY CASE OF A VERY SPECIAL KARATE TEACHER WITH DOWN SYNDROME.

Adolfo López Alemán, Universidad Metropolitana

Alejandra Mari Marxuach Dominguez is the first documented woman with Down Syndrome in Puerto Rico to obtain a black belt in karate. This unique women teach karate to their equals in the Puerto Rican Down Syndrome Foundation with the assistance of her karate teacher. At this moment she has been effective teaching forms to her pairs. She is being practicing the art of Shugi ut Suru Karate Do for more than five years. This karate teacher uses the PAKTO teaching model, that is the model that the author developed for make more effective the learning process of special needs people. The model is based on the Pattern 23 Theory and is an emergent theory formulated on the Neurokinetic Pedagogy. Both are fundament on the life based learning through movement model. This study follows her in the process to become a black belt and how she is being preparing herself to teach karate. The next step of this study is to recruit a beginner student with a white belt. She has to teach that new student, without any help, the first part of the Shugi ut Suru Karate Do curriculum to test that student in the yellow belt. To validate her work two typical black belts from the same karate system has to evaluate her student at the same curriculum level. The study is not completed yet, because is in the final process but it is important for the education community and the academy to know about a study like this, because offers the opportunity to special needs people to really show what are they capable to do. This study can change the paradigm of how people with special needs being seen in society. Also shows that this population have the will and courage to do their part in the world.

TE HABLO EN ESPAÑOL OR IN ENGLISH?"

Rocio Delgado, University of the Virgin Islands

This presentation is based on two ethnographic studies I conducted with a Mexican-origin family in the Southwest and three undocumented Mexican families in Upstate New York. This comparison study documents the attrition of the Spanish language after two or three generations and the impoverishment


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of the families’ language domains of use. The studies show how the functions of the heritage language decrease as the English language is transferred to domains that were formerly heritage language domains. Research on these families shows that their literacy practices in Spanish are weak and nearly absent, which I predict might not support the maintenance of the heritage language in its written form and could appear to foresee its loss. English is spoken at home among children and they tend to answer in English even when they are addressed by their parents in Spanish. The connection between engagement with Spanish print and Spanish maintenance is more likely to occur in households that show continuities with school practices and/or awareness of dominant discourses about literacy . The data collected on the Mexican-American family showed varying degrees of bilingualism without diglossia due to the fact that both languages, Spanish and English, were used in and out of the home. Furthermore, the difference in the children’s language ability was directly connected to the years of bilingual schooling they received, and their exposure and willingness to use the heritage language. These studies confirm previous research that shows the close relationship between social networks and language maintenance. All the families are characterized by a lack of Spanish strong social networks, which I think contributes enormously to the impoverishment of the heritage language.


April 5th 2013 19

Engineering A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF TARGET DETECTION ALGORITHMS IN HYPERSPECTRAL IMAGERY

Yahya M. Masalmah, Universidad del Turabo; José O. Nogueras, Universidad del Turabo

The emergence of new applications for target detection in the hyperspectral imagery that require rapid responses, has increased the need for faster and accurate algorithms that support scientists to make decisions in near real time. The efficiency of hyperspectral image processing algorithms in these applications has added great relevance and importance to the development and optimization of the techniques used in its implementation. In this research, we review and implement 3 known target detection algorithms for HSI: Automatic target generation process (ATGP), Spectral angle mapper (SAM) and RX Detector and compare their speed and accuracy against our Constrained positive matrix factorization (CPMF) algorithm. These algorithms were tested on simulated data (within and without noise) with 5 known materials (endmembers) in visible range (Wavelength=0.4-0.8µm) from JPL ASTER Spectral Library. We also use real data set, the Enrique Reef Hyperion image to validate our conclusions. The experiments results reveal that CPMF algorithm is the most accurate, but slower.

A NEW APPROACH IN THE DERIVATION OF THE ENERGY EQUATION FOR COMPRESSIBLE AND INCOMPRESSIBLE FLOW

Gerardo Carbajal, Universidad del Turabo

The energy equation is one of the most important relations used in the analysis of steady/transient heating or cooling process for compressible or incompressible flow. However, the derivation of this equation is not clear and some confusion is observed from the literature review. In this study, a new derivation of the energy balance is proposed. It consists of redefining the effect of the normal and shear stresses components acting in a small fixed control volume (inertial reference). The proposed derivation is based on the law of conservation of energy which states that energy cannot be destroyed neither created it only can be transformed. Traditional derivations of the energy equations assume the shear stress as work input/output components respectively. However, a detailed analysis shown that the shear stress effect should be treated as a heat input/output; this unclear role of the shear stress causes difficulties in the derivation of the heat equation. It is shown that this new approach satisfies the first law of thermodynamics. A general solution for the energy equation is obtained from this derivation. Several particular cases are briefly derived and studied such as the energy equation for compressible and incompressible flow, and the heat diffusion equation for solids. Additionally, this study includes the effects of heat generation.


April 5th 2013 20

CHARACTERIZATION OF THERMOELECTRIC MATERIALS AND CONTACTS BY AN ENHANCED HARMAN METHOD

Eduardo E. Castillo, Universidad del Turabo

This work develops a strategy for thermoelectric characterization by transient Harman method under non- ideal contact and boundary conditions. A thermoelectric transport model is presented that accounts for the effects of thermal and electrical contact resistances and heat transport through electrodes and supporting substrate. Parasitic effects play a large role in controlling the temperature difference across thin thermoelectric films on substrate. Analytical expressions for the temperature difference across the thermoelectric sample are provided to aid in the separate determination of the Seebeck coefficient, and thermal conductivity of the sample, and to quantify the parasitic effects. An electrical scanning probe technique was used to extract the intrinsic electrical resistivity of the sample as well as to study the electrical contact resistance between the sample and its electrodes and copper pad. A thermal characterization experimental setup employs the Harman method under bipolar current excitation over a wide range of currents, to allow Peltier only, and combined Peltier and Joule heating effects to control the temperature difference across the sample. Proof of concept experiments were performed on commercial thermoelectric pellets mounted on the original ceramic substrate. Excellent results were obtained for the thermoelectric properties of the samples with higher thickness, compared to the manufacturer values. On another hand, assuming these properties for the smaller samples, the thermal and electrical contact resistivities calculated with this technique were very consistent, in the order of 10-7 m2 K/W and 10-10 m2 ƒÇ, respectively.

CLOUD COMPUTING SECURITY AND PRIVACY

Jeffrey Duffany, Universidad del Turabo

Cloud computing security is comprised of elements drawn from computer security, network security and information security. It encompasses policies, technologies, and controls employed to protect data, applications, and the cloud computing infrastructure. The security aspects of cloud computing are examined from the point of view of its inherent vulnerabilities with regard to availability, user authentication and privacy and trust. Recent events such as the April 21, 2011 collapse of the Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud (EC2) are used to illustrate these vulnerabilities and to suggest measures that can be implemented to improve cloud security. This is followed by a discussion of key aspects of cloud security including data protection, physical and personnel security, application security, legal issues and strategies that can be employed to better manage and mitigate security risks associated with cloud computing.


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COMPARISON OF SERVICE RELIABILITY METRICS ON VULNERABLE STOCHASTIC NETWORKS

Jean Carlos Rivera, Universidad del Turabo; José Santiváñez, Universidad del Turabo; Emanuel Melachrinoudis, Northeastern University

This paper introduces a new service reliability metric based on service survivability when network components are vulnerable to disruptions. The network service reliability, i.e., its capability of providing service when requested, could be affected by intentional or natural disasters such as earthquakes, storms, terrorist attacks, etc. The proposed metric, termed mean network survivability, is an improvement over the existing reliability efficiency metric because it takes into consideration that nodes may have different service demands and edges may have different operational probabilities. Additionally, to calculate mean network survivability, the authors propose the use of an approximation to the real value of two- terminal reliability that is more accurate than other approximations that use either the most reliable route or lower bounds based on minimal paths, especially when edge operational probabilities are different. The proposed metric is important in characterizing the performance of a network and allows comparison among different topologies. Examples that illustrate the use of the proposed metric and compare it with other service reliability metrics are presented.

EFFECTS OF POROUS MEDIA PROTUBERANCES FOR BOILING ENHANCEMENT IN MINI-CHANNELS


Single or two phase flow in mini- channels is applied in several engineering applications for effective heat removal devices. In this research, a plain and different geometry protuberances porous medium were inserted in the bottom side of the mini- channel with the purpose of improve the boiling process. The problem was modeled and solved numerically. The investigation attempted to quantify the influence of the surface structure geometry on the liquid pressure drop along the mini-channels. Four different protuberances were selected: flat, triangular, hemispherical and drop- shaped geometries. The presence of these structures was found to alter the pressure distribution along the mini- channel, while improving the heat transfer rates and increasing the average fluid temperature, due to the enhancement in the effective heat transfer area and the mixing process in the flow. The results indicated that the velocity, pressure and temperature are considerably altered due to the presence of the protuberances. Considering the heat transfer enhancement and the associated pressure drop, the hemispherical design was found to be the most effective modification among the various cases analyzed.


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ENERGY CONSUMPTION CHARACTERIZATION OF PRIVACY PRESERVING ALGORITHMS FOR PARTICIPATORY SENSING SYSTEMS

Nelson Rivera García, Universidad Del Turabo; Yanira Rivera Negron, Universidad de Puerto Rico - Mayaguez; Idalides Vergara Laurens, Universidad Del Turabo

Participatory sensing is a new sensing paradigm where a group of users voluntarily gather, analyze, share and report data of interest utilizing their mobile devices. Given the large number of cellular users, these systems could be utilized to address or study issues or problems relevant to large populations. One of the most important problems in participatory sensing systems is that of the privacy, i.e., users will not be willing to participate, if the system does not include privacy-preserving mechanisms. However, privacy-preserving mechanisms may consume a considerate amount of resources, particularly energy due additional processing and data transmission, resulting in another issue that may prevent users from participating. . This project investigates the energy consumption associated with the most important privacy-preserving mechanisms available in the literature and the tradeoff between user privacy and energy consumption. These algorithms were classified in three categories, anonymization, obfuscation and encryption-based. Finally, the results present that the encryption-based algorithms consume significantly more energy, followed by anonymization-based algorithms and obfuscation-based algorithms.

ENERGY GENERATION FROM OCEAN WAVES

Darío Alemán, Universidad del Turabo; Pablo Pérez, Universidad del Turabo; Edwar Romero, Universidad del Turabo

This project studies the viability of using sea waves for electrical energy generation. Recently, there are several projects investigating the storing of compressed air under water for energy generation purposes. The need arises from clean energy generation projects where excess energy is wasted or stored for off-peak demand. One approach uses underground caverns to store pressurized air for later use, but they are limited to few locations around the world. This technique suffers from inefficiency since the air loses pressure while being used for long periods. A new technique solves both problems storing pressurized air under water (not limited to caverns and providing air at a constant pressure), while providing efficiencies over 70%. This project is unique since it uses ocean waves to drive a linear generator that compresses air to be stored in accumulators (large bags).


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ENERGY HARVESTING FROM FLUTTERING MEMBRANCE

Gelson Díaz, Universidad del Turabo; Oscar López, Universidad del Turabo; Frances Ramírez, Universidad del Turabo; Visvanatha Sundararajan, Universidad del Turabo; Edwar Romero, Universidad del Turabo

The present research explores the possibility of using piezoelectric materials to harvest energy for thin membranes fluttering in the wind. Our goal for this research is to obtain 100 mW of power at the wind speed of 4 mph. Experimental investigation is being performed in a low speed suction type wind tunnel with a test section of 8”x8”and with a length of 24”. The tunnel has a maximum speed of 40 mph. Thin mylar membranes of thickness 0.003 inches ( 0.08 mm) are being used. The air speed is measured using hotwire anemometer and the pitot-static tubes. To obtain a very low flutter speed of the membrane, optimization of the shape and aspect ratios of the membrane has been tested. These changes in geometry include a variety of shapes like rectangular and trapezoidal shape. For the rectangular shape the tests show that for the flag to flutter the speed had to be 4 mph or higher. These tests were made with different aspect ratios of the flag and the optimum one showed best results for 3.8mph. For the trapezoidal shape the results were similar to the rectangular shapes, as for the trapezoidal shapes with larger aspect ratio the flutter speed is even less.

EVALUATION OF PRODUCTIVITY AND OPERATION OF A COMMERCIAL SCALE PHOTOVOLTAIC ARRAY CONNECTED TO THE ELECTRICAL GRID 25 YEARS AFTER ITS ORIGINAL INSTALLATION

Gerardo Cosme, Solartek; Amaury Malavé, Puerto Rico Energy Center

This study is an examination of the operation and actual condition of the oldest photovoltaic solar array in Puerto Rico that was connected to the electrical grid more than 25 years ago. The study focuses on the past and present condition of the photovoltaic system, the historical perspective and the learned experiences from such project. The actual conditions of the array are analyzed with the goal of study the reliability and productivity of such system on the long run and compare it with the warranties offered by the manufactures as well as identifying the deterioration patterns and the possible technical failures in the systems through its lifetime. The rehabilitation of the system is presented and its current production is compared against its historic performance and to modern systems.

EXPERIMENTAL EFFECT OF INPUT PARAMETERS ON A 50 W SINGLE PEM FUEL CELL

Naomi Llinas, Universidad del Turabo; Hayllem Campos, Universidad del Turabo; Gerardo Carbajal, Universidad del Turabo

Previous experimental results had shown that the performance of a single PEM fuel cell is affected by different input parameters such as the input pressure and temperature. This experimental study shows the transient performance of the single 50 W PEMFC; it was found that the system reach its maximum operating temperature, steady state conditions, at approximately 80 degree Celsius. It was observed


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that the inlet pressure affected the performance of the single fuel cell. Different pressure values ranging from 10 psi to 30 psi were investigated.

FAIL DETECTION IN GAS TURBINES

Miguel Delgado, Universidad del Turabo; Edwar Romero, Universidad del Turabo

The objective of this work is to develop a system for fault detection of gas turbines. Bearing faults detection in gas turbine engines can benefit military and civil aircraft applications as well as turbine-based power plants. The reliability of gas turbines is a critical point for cost reduction which uses statistical reliability analysis for bearings life replacement. However, it is especially difficult to determine this life analysis for military aircraft use due to operating environments. Condition-based maintenance promises cost reduction strategies with scheduled maintenance according actual conditions. Vibration analysis is one technique that has been used but sensor placement limits its implementation. One of the problems is that traditional wired sensors are difficult to embed close to bearing sites. This project proposes an energy harvester that eliminates the need for powering cords for sensing. Instead, it generates energy for the system operation in-site resembling a small electrical generator attached to the turbine shaft.

GAS TURBINE DESIGN

Joyfred Villaman, Universidad del Turabo; Luis Pagán, Universidad del Turabo; Sigfredo Nieves, Universidad del Turabo; Jaime Carreras, Universidad del Turabo; Edwar Romero , Universidad del Turabo

This works describes the design and manufacturing of a gas turbine using a truck turbocharger. A gas turbine is a combustion engine where a rotating shaft is composed of a compressor, a combustion chamber and a turbine. Gas turbines are mostly used in jet engines and in power plants for energy generation. Jet engines are gas turbines optimized for thrust while industrial gas turbines are heavier with integrated electrical generators. The objective of this work is to build a gas turbine for teaching and research purposes. Since gas turbines can be very expensive, a low cost alternative is manufacturing them using an automotive turbocharger with a combustion chamber between the compressor and turbine sections.

GREEN IT: MODEL FOR HIGH-END INDUSTRY (PHARMACEUTICAL ELECTRONICS IN PUERTO RICO)

Angel Quiñones Torres, Universidad del Turabo

Many enterprise particularly high-end users of technology like pharmaceuticals and electronics are trying to implement Green IT in their as part of their energy savings and environmental protection policies. Many have adopted some form of policy to address these concerns. The correct definition and


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approach to implement Green IT remains difficult to comprehend and implement, because most enterprise are not clear as to what areas they should address. Understanding and measurements are important because it enables benchmarking and comparisons by quantifying the degree of implementation of Green IT. Through implementing the appropriate framework and metrics these organizations will be able to develop an effective G-IT policy.. This thesis/investigation, (MS Telecommunications and Network Adm., School of Engineering UT) “Green IT: Model for High-End Industry (Pharmaceutical Electronics in Puerto Rico, mentor Dr. Rafael M. Rivera)” outlines a research-based and highly practical Green Computing framework. Through the appropriate survey instruments it will study current practices and procedures of these industries in Puerto Rico and will analyze current successful frameworks and practices and determine which ones are more suitable to this environment. Out hypothesis states that; “High end industries in Puerto Rico do not have a structured plan and metrics to successfully implement Green-IT” Our methodology includes; 1. Research into current G- IT practices, methods and policy in high end industries in Puerto Rico through the appropriate survey instruments and in-depth interviews. 2. Evaluate current methods, policies and metrics being used successfully. 3. Propose a basic model/framework for proper G-IT implementation in Puerto Rico by these industries. Our goal is to contribute effective methods that can be successfully implemented in our area of concern.

INTEGRATING ELECTRIC POWER FROM RENEWABLE SOURCES

José L. Colón, Universidad del Turabo

Integrating Electric Power from Renewable Sources Electric power generated or converted from energy sources need to be reliable, stable, and with the needed quality and quantity to supply the connected variable loads (this means available when needed and as needed). These are serious constraints that limit the use of some renewable sources particularly wind and solar photovoltaic (PV) sources. The most widely used energy sources that can provide reliable continuous electric power are from fossil fuels, nuclear, and hydraulic. For all these, the fuel can be stored for feeding as needed to provide continuity. But Wind is not available continuously with needed minimum in most places and PVs are only useful for some hours during sunny days, therefore storage will be needed , but double conversion will be required for the storage means and this will impose other constrains. Energy Return on Investment (EROI) is defined as the total energy that a system can provide in its useful life in relation to the total energy needed to make or produce it; if less energy is produced than the needed one to make the system, then that system is not a solution. This maybe the case for the (PV) systems as evaluated by other researchers. Wind has not been evaluated so far. PV systems imposes an integration and synchronization problem when used interconnected with the grid. Their inclusion in the grid will complicate the stability of the system and inherently reduce the efficiency of the generation system if interconnected at AC level, although this effect can be overcome if not continuously interconnected with the grid .


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KERR MICROSCOPY SYSTEM: STUDYING THE MAGNETO OPTICAL KERR EFFECT

Ronald García, Universidad del Turabo

The Magneto-Optic Kerr Effect (MOKE) is the study of the reflection of polarized light by a material sample subjected to a magnetic field. It is used in materials science research in devices such as the Kerr microscope, to investigate the magnetization structure of materials. Light that is reflected from a magnetized surface can change in both polarization and reflected intensity. The effect is identical to the Faraday Effect except that the magneto-optical Kerr effect is a measurement of the reflected light, while the Faraday Effect is a measurement of the transmitted light. The aim of this project is to design and build a Magneto Optical Kerr Effect System (MOKE) to study ferromagnetic materials in form of metallic magnetic thin films. This system will be used for the characterization of multilayered magnetic thin films by generating a magnetic Hysteresis Loop.

LOCATION OF RELIABLE MEDIANS ON VULNERABLE NETWORKS WITH STOCHASTIC DEMANDS

Wesley J. Marrero, Universidad del Turabo; José A. Santivañez, Universidad del Turabo; Emanuel Melachrinoudis, Northeastern University

This paper addresses the problem of locating service facilities on networks vulnerable to disruptions so as to maximize service availability, defined as the capability of the network to provide service when disruption occurs. Most often, demands originating at network nodes are not deterministic. Nevertheless, planners may estimate demand probability distributions based on the estimated impact of the disruptions. Demands for services are modeled in this study as random variables with known probability mass functions. Service availability is measured using, (i) expected amount of service delivered and (ii) average performance of the network. Optimal locations are sought (a) when average demands originate at the nodes and (b) when taking into account all demand scenarios when network disruption occurs. Procedures are presented for both approaches that find single facility locations on general networks or multi facility locations on tree networks. To avoid intractability in two-terminal reliability calculations, the most reliable route policy is adopted. Numerical examples are provided to illustrate the procedures.

MAXIMIZING SERVICE AVAILABILITY/SURVIVABILITY ON NETWORKS VULNERABLE TO DISRUPTIONS

José Santiváñez, Universidad del Turabo; Emanuel Melcachrinoudis, Northeastern University

Most often networks provide some critical service in the form of flow from service facilities to customers. Network components (nodes and edges) are vulnerable to intentional or unplanned disruptions, which may lead to path destruction or even disconnectedness between service facilities and customers. This work introduces the use of a new modeling framework to accurately define service availability/survivability measures on existing networks that are vulnerable to disruptions, and the


April 5th 2013 27

definition of network performance metrics. Service availability is measured as the capability of the network to establish connectivity so that service may be delivered.Service survivability is understood as the ratio of how much service is available when disruption occurs over the total requested service. Service availability depends on the capability of the network to establish connectivity between facilities and customers so that service may be delivered. This research focuses on the location of facilities on existing networks so that service availability/survivability is maximized. Examples are the location of servers or databases on computer networks, control systems on telecommunication networks, or critical information on information infrastructures or social networks.

MICROWAVE HEATING OF DOWN WELL EXTRA HEAVY OIL

Roberto Callarotti, Universidad del Turabo; Eduardo Paez, Fundación Instituto de Ingeniería

We have modeled the heating of heavy oil (API<10) by means of microwaves (5 GHz). The energy source is located at the surface while the oil reservoir is located at a depth of 1000 meters having a radius of 14 meters and a length of some 20 meters. We have characterized this oil as having a relative permittivity å = 2.6+j0.006, and the permeability of free space. A power of 1 Kw applied at the surface, reaches the reservoir as 195 watts (losses in the metallic circular waveguide walls). The power is then absorbed by the oil in the reservoir resulting in a maximum temperature increase of the order 40 C. This increase would certainly decrease the oil viscosity favoring an easier production. We also present temperature increases for different values of the permittivity of the petroleum in the reservoir.

NANOFLUIDS HEAT TRANSFER ENHANCEMENT IN A GROOVE HEAT PIPE


Heat pipes are devices that can transfer significant amount of heat with a relative small temperature difference. The working fluid is the crucial component that allows the transfer of energy. Usually, the thermal conductivity of working fluids is relatively smaller compared with solid metal. This research, pretend to affect the thermal conductivity of the working fluid by adding specific amounts of aluminum oxide nanofluids to a rectangular groove heat pipe and compared with the heat pipe that only used distillated water. The heat pipes had the same dimensions and were made of aluminum 6061. The pipes dimensions were 135.6mm x17mm x 10.3mm respectively; the rectangular grooves consisted of 0.794mm of width and 1.587mm depth. The two heat pipes were tested individually and subjected to the same boundary conditions. One heat pipe was tested with distillated water and the other one with distilled water and nanofluids in a fraction of 1:10 in volume. The experimental results revealed that the performance of the heat pipe with the nanofluids as a working fluid was the most efficient. It was found that the nanofluids increased the heat transfer rate by approximately 14.14 percent compared with the heat pipe with pure distillated water only. It can be concluded that the heat transfer enhancement was due to the presence of the nanofluids.


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SUMMER FACULTY IMMERSION AS A STRATEGY TO DIFFUSE ENGINEERING EDUCATION INNOVATIONS: FIRST YEAR RESULTS

Juan C. Morales, Universidad del Turabo; Michael J. Prince, Bucknell University

This paper presents the first-year results of an externally-funded faculty development program that was carried out at a private engineering school in Puerto Rico during the summer of 2012. The program was designed to ignite systemic and sustainable change towards creating a classroom environment that engages students with authentic engineering real-world problems within an inductive learning environment. The overarching goal of the effort is to increase the graduation rates of Hispanic engineering students. This model is a possible solution to a problem identified in the recent research literature: although decades of innovations in teaching are available and well-researched, the faculty are not readily adopting them because the time required to develop them exceeds substantially the normal course preparation. Although it is too early to determine if the summer immersion program will achieve “systemic and sustainable change” and whether the changes will have an effect on retention rates, graduation rates, and employer satisfaction, there are positive indicators that it is working. On the other hand, the study has uncovered a weakness with respect to time limitations during class sessions that must be addressed and resolved. The paper includes details of the structure of the summer program, the results of several surveys conducted to determine the opinion of students and faculty regarding the innovations and their implementation, examples of the innovations, and recommendations to improve the program, which is funded until 2016.

WASTE HEAT RECOVERY OF AIR CONDITIONING UNITS FOR ELECTRICAL ENERGY GENERATION

Raúl León, Universidad del Turabo; Edwin Rodríguez, Universidad del Turabo; José Rodríguez, Universidad del Turabo; Manuel López, Universidad del Turabo; Gerardo Carbajal, Universidad del Turabo; Edwar Romero, Universidad del Turabo

This project investigates the viability of using waste heat recovery from large capacity air conditioning units for electrical energy generation using Organic Rankine Cycle. For electrical energy generation in steam power plants, the Rankine cycle is the most used. The Rankine cycle requires input energy in the form of heat from a boiler producing steam that goes through a turbine connected to an electrical generator. After energy is generated, the steam is condensed and pumped again to repeat the cycle. The Organic Rankine Cycle uses an organic fluid that boils at a much lower temperature than water vapor. This allows the Rankine cycle to operate with waste heat as byproduct of solar ponds, biomass combustions, and industrial heat waste such as the one produced by large scale air conditioning units.


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Health Sciences CXCR4-CXCL12 AXIS IN PROLIFERATION, MIGRATION, AND INVASION OF ENDOMETRIOSIS

Abigail Ruiz, Ponce School of Medicine and Health Sciences; Janice Monteiro, Ponce School of Medicine and Health Sciences; Mariano Colón, Ponce School of Medicine and Health Sciences; Martha Echevarría, Ponce School of Medicine and Health Sciences; Asgerally Fazleabas, Michigan State University; Idhaliz Flores, Ponce School of Medicine and Health Sciences

Endometriosis affects women during their reproductive age and is associated with chronic pain, inflammation, infertility, and increased levels of chemokines. It is defined as the presence of endometrial stromal and epithelial cells outside the uterus. We reported elevated mRNA levels of the chemokine receptor CXCR4 in endometriotic lesions of a rat model and high protein expression in human endometriosis tissues compared to control endometrium. The CXCR4-CXCL12 axis plays roles in angiogenesis, invasion, migration, and cell proliferation. CXCR4 is predominantly expressed by endometrial epithelial cells (EEC) and its ligand, CXCL12, by endometrial stromal cells. We hypothesized that CXCR4-CXCL12 axis may induce proliferation, invasion, and migration in a cell specific manner via activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway. Cell proliferation, migration, and invasion of EEC and endometriotic epithelial cells (12Z) treated with CXCL12α were analyzed by BrdU proliferation, wound healing assays, and matrigel assay, respectively. We also studied a dose mediated induction of AKT phosphorylation by CXCL12α in the two cell lines. CXCL12α increased proliferation and migration of endometrial cells vs. media (p<0.05). In addition CXCL12α induced rapid and transient AKT phosphorylation. These data suggest that the CXCR4-CXCL12α axis can be activated in endometrial cells to promote cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. These biological functions have been previously shown to be dysregulated in endometriosis, by still undefined mechanisms, leading to survival and growth of ectopic endometrium.

DESCRIPTIVE ANALYSIS OF CLINICAL TRIALS IN PUERTO RICO

Wilfredo De Jesus-Monge, Universidad del Turabo

The results of clinical trials provide the evidence for guidelines of patient care in medicine; and US Hispanics are underrepresented as subjects in them. This situation leads to suboptimal applicability of trial findings in this population. Ninety-nine percent (99%) of the Puerto Rican population is of Hispanic origin. Therefore, the participation of PR Hispanics in clinical trials can greatly contribute with the optimal applicability of their results, while making clinical guidelines more relevant to this population. In addition, the analysis of available clinical trials in PR will facilitate opportunities for patients to access these therapeutic alternatives. OBJECTIVE: To descriptively analyze current clinical trials in PR. All clinical trials that are currently recruiting subjects in PR (November 2012) and their relevant variable data were retrieved from ClinicalTrials.gov, a worldwide registry of clinical studies, and a descriptive analysis was performed. RESULTS: One-hundred sixty-seven (167) clinical trials were identified. The majority of the trials are targeted to Oncology, human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis C virus, and


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cardiovascular disease areas. Most of the clinical trials in PR are sponsored by pharma / industry, of the interventional type (mainly phase 3), with treatment as primary purpose, and enrolling adults. The cities were most of the clinical trials are conducted are San Juan, Ponce, and Carolina. The population of PR can greatly contribute with Hispanic heritage representation in medical advances. The disease areas of the clinical trials in PR should be consonant with the burden of that disease in its population in order to provide an alternative to the current medical management and to make the clinical guidelines more relevant to Hispanics in PR.

DEVELOPMENT OF NANOSCALED SENSORS FOR REAL TIME DETECTION OF HEART FAILURE BIOMARKERS

Kiara Pujols, University of Puerto Rico

Cardiac failure is one of the main causes of death in the world. Cardiac failure and related illnesses affect more than 4.5 million people in the United States and nearly half a million cases are diagnosed each year. Cardiac troponin is a calcium binding protein that is the best biomarker for myocardial tissue damage. It is released in the blood stream a few hours prior to a heart attack. Therefore, this summer, we are striving to create a biocompatible nanomaterial based on calcium that could lead us to the detection of cardiac troponin. We will prepare and characterize a biocompatible nanoscaled sensor material that will bind to cardiac troponin. For the synthesis of CaS nanoparticles, we warmed solutions of CaAc in DMSO in a microwave oven. We were able to prepare CaS nanoparticles from the reaction of AcCa in DMSO warmed in the microwave oven. The solutions turned yellow-green, in marked contrast with the color of bulk CaS. The CaS nanoparticles were characterized with UV-visible absorption spectroscopy and scanning tunneling electron microscopy measurements. The results suggest the presence of CaS nanoparticles in our solution. Our exciting work on a platform for the calcium-based biosensors is still in progress, and we expect to have it finished by the end of the program. Ongoing measurements include the determination of fluorescence bands in the CaS solution. We have prepared CaS nanoparticles with the purpose of developing nanoscaled sensor elements for cardiac troponin detection.

ELECTRONIC PROTECTION HEALTH INFORMATION POLICY IMPLEMENTATION

Cesar Salas, E-Crime Institute of Puerto Rico

In the prevention and control of the criminal impact within the misuse of sensitive information, the implementation of “Security Information Policy” is mandatory in all government agencies, companies and all private organization, la evolution of the crime with the use of electronic devices required immediately the use and application of “Security Information Policy”. Inside the components of “Critical National Infrastructure” the Electronic Protection Health Information in (OCR, 2003) describes de vision and capture the security concepts that set the policies, protections, roles, and responsibilities with


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minimal impact from changes in technology and protection of data, the e-PHI provides a secure framework based in federal standards, laws and good professional practice across the broad spectrum of the critical national infrastructure and data protection. The protected health information is the Privacy Rule that protects all individually identifiable health information" held or transmitted by a covered entity or its business associate.


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Science and Technology A FIRST MODEL OF SOLUBLE REACTIVE PHOSPHORUS DYNAMICS IN LAGUNA CARTAGENA USING SOFTWARE STELLA (V8) AND ORDINARY DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS.

Brenda C. Torres-Velásquez, Universidad de Turabo; Yashira M. Sánchez-Colón, Universidad de Turabo; Marlio Paredes-Gutierrez, Universidad de Turabo; Fred C. Schaffner, Universidad de Turabo

Laguna Cartagena (LC) is a tropical freshwater wetland located in southwestern Puerto Rico that has been impacted by unnaturally high nutrient loading, particularly phosphorus, since the latter half of the 20th century. Laguna Cartagena current hypertrophic condition has attracted the attention of several scientists interested in improving the lagoon habitat conditions and its restoration. Eutrophication leads to excessive plant productivity that contributes to wildlife habitat degradation and enhanced greenhouse gas (methane) emissions. A first step in this analysis was the documentation of phosphorous dynamics within the lagoon using data collected by Sánchez-Colón and Schaffner and analyzed in the laboratory by Sanchez-Colón. The primary variables for this analysis are Soluble Reactive Phosphorus (SRP) concentrations taken from samples of water entering and exiting LC at its inlet and outlet points, and at three locations in the western, eastern and center sectors of the lagoon. Samples for all 5 sites were collected in triplicate on 18 occasions from August 2010 to September 2011. STELLA (v8) was used to model SRP dynamics based on the net amount of SRP (¦Ìg/L) in the system using a stock block, and two main unidirectional flows to describe the SRP concentrations that enter and exit the system. Real data were included in two converters that provide information on the main flows. Ordinary differential equations are developed and modeling results are compared with real data collected from the three points inside Laguna Cartagena. Results of simulation show the dynamics of SRP inside Laguna Cartagena as a logistic function.

ANALYSIS OF FUTURE CLIMATE TRANSPORT AND DEPOSITION PATTERNS OF BLACK CARBON FROM WILDLAND FIRE TO THE ARCTIC AND OTHER SNOW/ICE COVERED REGIONS.

Marlin E. Martínez,. Universidad del Turabo

Emission, transport and deposition of black carbon (BC) has been gaining interest among the scientific community, air quality managers, policy makers, and climate change experts. Current legislation is stirring federal agencies to identify and comprehend potential effects of such processes. The United States Congress required the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to conduct a BC study as part of H.R. 299 and the Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010, required an understanding of the role of BC in climate change. The goal of this work is to investigate the future transport and deposition patterns of black carbon from wildland fire to the Arctic and other ice/snow-covered regions using Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) existing downscaled future climate scenarios and existing future wildland fire emission inventories coupled with simple Hybrid Single- Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory (HYSPLIT) trajectories. A four step


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process will be used where 1) an analysis of mesoscale transport patterns to the Arctic and other snow/ice-covered regions will be accomplished, then 2) an analysis investigating how the snow/ice- covered regions change in the future will be accomplished, then 3) existing current and future wildland fire emission inventories will be compared to investigate how wildland fire changes into the future, then finally, 4) the combined effects of future mesoscale transport patterns, changes in snow/ice-covered areas, and future fire emission estimates will be analyzed.

ARSENATE RESPIRATORY REDUCTASE: BIOMARKER FOR DETECTION OF ENVIRONMENTAL THREAT.

Liryanys Figueroa, Universidad del Turabo; José R. Pérez-Jiménez, Universidad del Turabo

Arsenic is a toxic element found in nature, it affects human health by causing different types of cancer, neurological and skin disorders. Arsenic is an odorless, colorless and tasteless toxin capable of being dissolved in water. For these reasons arsenic species are almost impossible to detect when present in food, water and gasses. Recent discoveries have shown that some bacteria can transform arsenic species into more toxic compounds through reductive mechanisms. Dissimilatory arsenate-reducing prokaryotes, (DARPs), metabolize arsenate, mobilizing arsenic into water. The non-Firmicutes DARPs represent several phylum in Chrysiogenes arsenatis, Geobacter uraniireducens, Alkalilimnicola, Bacillus, Halanaerobiaceae sp. strain SLAS-1, Sulfurospirillum arsenophilum, Shewanella sp. ANA-3, and Wolinella succinogenes. Our goal is to strengthen screening tools with a new method in order to examine the prevalence and diversity of DARPs in nature through the employment of bioinformatics analyses. The prevalence of DARPs in nature is being assessed by the presence of the arrA gene among microbial genomes. The arrA gene from Sulfurospirillum barnesii was subjected to blast analyses among 1470 non-Firmicutes genomes. So far, highest homology was found for three genomes: Wolinella succinogenes (71%), Shewanella putrefaciens (74%), and Shewanella sp. ANA-3 (74%). Shewanella species demonstrated large centers of divergence in the middle, ~80% coverage. Less homology was detected at nucleotide level than the amino acid sequence. The arrA genes are highly divergent to find sites that flank central islands of difference to support a new detection method. Conserved sequences are useful biomarkers to ascertain prokaryotes capable of arsenate respiration; this will allow us to monitor the risk of arsenate mobilization in nature.

ARTHROPOD RECOVERY IN SECONDARY FORESTS IN THE JOBOS BAY AREA, SALINAS, PUERTO RICO

Sharon Encarnación, Universidad del Turabo; Annette Torres, Universidad del Turabo; Linette Torres, Universidad del Turabo; María Fernanda Barberena-Arias, Universidad del Turabo

The forests of Puerto Rico are being disturbed by human activities, resulting in the formation of secondary forests. These are rich in fauna and each one of them has a different composition depending on the diversity of organisms, among which we could find arthropods. The importance of these terrestrial arthropod biodiversity is their participation in processes such as pollination where bees, for


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example, move gametes from one flower to another, and decomposition, where arthropods influence soil nutrient dynamics. As forests are disturbed, arthropod diversity is threatened. As a consequence, we aim to study arthropods in areas that represent sequential stages of vegetation cover recovery. In this study, we collected samples at Bahia de Jobos, Salinas, using two methods: active search combined with branch clipping and butterfly net. We collected the samples for 2013, although the data hereby presented has been collected since 2011. The specific studied areas are abandoned pastures and agriculture, and early and late successional forests. In the laboratory, collected arthropods were counted and identified to order. Preliminary results suggest that the abundance and richness of arthropods varied among habitats with an increase in species number from areas recently abandoned to areas in late recovery. These results suggest that secondary forests are habitats with an associated arthropod community made up of common and unique species that are present yearlong or only at specific seasons.

ASSESSMENT OF GENETIC HOMOLOGY FOR EFFECTIVE DETECTION OF MYCOPLASMA

Luz V. Arroyo-Cruz, Universidad del Turabo; José R. Pérez-Jiménez, Universidad del Turabo

The genus Mycoplasma (class Mollicutes) has high impact on public health, veterinary, biotechnology, and environment due to versatile life style that induces serious damage and disease. Interestingly, new habitats are being reported recently in biofilms and corals. Current molecular markers developed for clinical applications are anticipated to be limited on detecting diversity of the genus Mycoplasma in the natural environment, specially the neotropics. Now we can exploit the emerging knowledge on the genetics of mycoplasmas to propose new and/or more extensive application tools. This way, we can evaluate and extend these biomarkers to new environmental and artificial scenarios. The objective of this research is to assess the genetic homology for 16S rDNA on Mycoplasma complete sequenced genomes to revisit effective detection of mycoplasmas. Sequences of available oligonucleotide primer and Mollicutes 16S rRNA gene database were obtained from NCBI and journals. Genetic homology for 16S rRNA gene of Mollicutes was determined from complete genome using Genomic BLAST. Efficiency of four previous published primers is being assessed in term of primability and stability using the software Amplify 3. Resulting amplicons were aligned using ClustalX 2.1; and phylogenetic trees were obtained using NJplot. More than 50 pair of primers has been published for amplification of Mycoplasma's 16S rDNA. 60% are specific to strains and 40% has a broad target. Primer pairs demonstrated broader detection potential by means of 350-, 1000-, 1100-, and 1500-bp amplicons. Thus, they selected for further examination. Similarity range from 100 to 68% overall, with greater average for the primer set P3’Fw-P6’Rv ~1000-bp (84%). Topology was similar for the four amplicons. Based on our analysis, Deng and Hiruki’s primers are suitable to discriminate among diversity enclosed sequenced genomes (the most robust information) of Mycoplasmas. Amplification efficiency of those primers will be examined among deposited sequences in GenBank.


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BACTERIAL PROSPECTS FOR ALIPHATIC ALKANE DEGRADATION ACROSS TROPICAL ECOSYSTEMS.

Migel Rosario-Mariani, Universidad del Turabo; Yomarie Bernier-Casillas, Universidad del Turabo; José R. Pérez-Jiménez, Universidad del Turabo

Contamination by organic compounds has been a consequence of industrial times. The high concentrations can be harmful to all living things especially to our ecosystems that thrive with the anthropogenic activities that take place each day. Alkanes are organic compounds derived from petroleum but some plants can produce naturally. Our objective is to study the aerobic bacterial degradation capabilities of pentane and decane. Samples were collected from soil minor (Mechanic Garage) and major chronically discharges (Caño Tiburones). Alkane-degrading prospects were isolated by aerobic cultivation on mineral salt media supplemented with specific alkane as sole carbon source. A total of eleven prospects have been isolated so far with alkane-degrading capabilities. Bacterial prospects for aliphatic alkane degradation were subjected to 16S rDNA sequencing. We identified species from the genera Citrobacter. Most of the strains prefer decane as a substrate. The prevalence of aliphatic alkane degradation prospects across different ecosystems including the Rain Forest (El Yunque) has been found for other aliphatic alkanes. By means of this research, I concluded that pentane and decane degrading bacteria could be found in the natural ecosystem regardless the prevailing level of pollution.

BIOPROSPECTING FOR BIOENERGY: BACTERIAL DEGRADATION OF LIGNOCELLULOSIC COMPOUNDS.

Myrna L. Ríos Hernández, Universidad del Turabo; Jean García-Díaz, Universidad del Turabo; José R. Pérez-Jiménez, Universidad del Turabo

Oil has now become a global concern due to its high demand and political control. One of the solutions to this problem is to opt for an alternate energy source. An effective and promising proposal would be biofuel. Fuels of biological origin can replace part of consumption in traditional, such as oil or coal fossil fuels. In search of a biomass that can produce biofuel, we focus on degradation of plant residues. Our objective is to isolate bacteria capable of degrading lignocellulosic compounds. Environmental samples containing plant material was screened for putative degraders. Liquid media separately containing: xylan, cellulose, and lignin was inoculated and examined daily for changes in turbidity or color. Samples of grasses and leaves reacted favorably to cellulose and lignin. While wood samples reacted positively in the media of xylan. Recently these samples were inoculated in media supplemented with essentials trace elements to stimulate degradation. Purification and characterization of degraders is in progress.


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CASE STUDY: ANALYSIS OF WEATHER CONDITIONS AND SMOKE FOR 2002 BISCUIT FIRE IN SOUTHWEST OREGON.

Marlin E. Martínez, Universidad del Turabo; Brian Potter, USDA-Forest Service- AirFire Team

A series of lightning storms ignited five fires around the Siskiyou Mountains in Southwest Oregon starting on July 13, 2002. Within days the fires jointed together. The outstanding fire burned for two months destroying almost half a million acres of wildland and communities. Estimates cost to control and suppress amounted to $150 million. A work force of more than 7,000 people constructed over 400 miles of fireline in order to control and suppress the fire. An analysis of the weather conditions and the smoke emission from the Biscuit Fire will be performed in a two-phase case study research. First, a meteorological reconstruction of the weather observed during the fire event will be done. This analysis will take into consideration available synoptic analyses, mesoscale meteorological data, and on site meteorological observations during the fire. Second, a recreation analysis of the smoke behavior, emissions and effects will be performed through the use of the BlueSky Smoke Modeling framework. Two different dispersion models, HYSPLIT and CALPUFF, will be used to accomplish this task. In addition three sources of location information will be taken into account, allowing comparing the performance of the models and location-information tools. This analysis is intended to clarify the variability and uncertainty in emissions impacts resulting from uncertainty in input variables and model assumptions. Results will aid managers on the planning of strategies to protect health, life and properties. The conclusion of the analysis is intended to be published.

COMMUNITY STRUCTURE OF ALKANE-DEGRADING BACTERIA ACROSS ECOSYSTEMS IN PUERTO RICO

Yomarie Bernier-Casillas, Universidad del Turabo; Sharon A. Cantrell, Universidad del Turabo; José R. Pérez-Jiménez, Universidad del Turabo

Alkanes are organic compounds that reach the environment by anthropogenic activities and natural processes. Microbial degradation of alkanes contributes to bioremediation. However, most studies have been conducted on polluted and temperate sites. Different genes, encoding for alkane monooxygenases, participate in the degradation process, such as alkB, alkB1, and alkM corresponding to Pseudomonas putida, Rhodococcus sp. and Acinetobacter sp., respectively. Currently, we have isolated 77 putative alkane degraders but the structure of the native community remains unclear. The objective is to describe the community structure of aliphatic alkane degrading bacteria in response to hexane, 2,2,4- trimethylpentane, and hexadecane. Soil samples were collected at ten sites under contrasting pollution levels, including natural ecosystems, in Puerto Rico. Native microbiota for each site was cultivated, as consortia, on rich media. The community was described using 16S rDNA and alk based-TRFLP profiles generated after digestion with HaeIII and HhaI. A total of 252 phylotypes were detected, representing 114 different phylotypes, or richness, for 16S rDNA. Bacterial community in contaminated sites ranged from 15 to 41, Bayamon River to Cano Tiburones, phylotypes. Whereas in natural ecosystems oscillated between 19 and 27, Cabo Rojo sands to salterns. Alkane monooxygenases genes, alk, were detected in 90% of the study sites. Evaluation of clonal libraries is in progress to identify


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specific taxa. TRFLP analyses have described distinctive bacterial diversity for every ecosystem despite its contamination level, and disclosed a heterogeneous population putatively involved in alkane degradation.

CONTROLLED SYNTHESIS OF CARBON NANOSPHERES

Francisco Márquez, Universidad del Turabo; Alejandra Cartagena, Universidad del Turabo; José Ducongé, Universidad del Turabo; Abraham García, Universidad del Turabo; María Cotto, Universidad del Turabo; Teresa Campo, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid; Eduardo Elizalde, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid; Sergio Pinilla, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid; Carmen Morant, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid

Since the Li¡V ion batteries were commercialized in 1991, a long list of carbon materials has been world- widely used as anode materials for Li¡V ion batteries. Currently there is a high demand for rechargeable batteries in a wide range of applications. Commercial Li-ion batteries mostly use graphite as the anode material and a layered intercalation compound based on lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) as cathode. However, the use of both electrodes has important limitations related to the low specific capacity of graphite (372 mAhg-1) and to the limiting conditions of use in the case of LCO cathodes. To overcome these drawbacks the innovation and development of new anode and cathode materials with high performance is imperative. The introduction of nanostructured electrode materials in the cells, in place of conventional electrodes, is expected to provide higher lithiation capability, enhanced stability and an overall better performance. In this regard, we have synthesized a new type of nanosized carbon structureto be used in the development of anode materials for Li¡V ion batteries. Carbon nanospheres whose dimensions can be selected during the synthesis procedure (diameters ranging from as low as 50 nm to more than 10 ƒÝm) have been successfully obtained. These materials have been characterized by electron microscopy (SEM) and BET surface area analysis. These materials are currently being tested as novel components for the development of anode materials for Li-ion batteries.

CONTROLLED SYNTHESIS OF SI NANOWIRES ON SI SUBSTRATES

Arancha Gómez, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid; Teresa Campo, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid; Francisco Márquez, Universidad del Turabo; Eduardo Elizalde, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid; Sergio Pinilla, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid ; Carmen Morant, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid

1D-semiconductor nanostructures have attracted intense research attention due to their novel physical and chemical properties. In this research, we present a procedure for the synthesis of silicon nanowires (SiNws), with diameters of ca. 30 nm and lengths up to several micrometers. We have used crystalline Si (100) substrates, covered by a thin film of gold. The nanowires were synthesized by thermal treatment, without any Si gas source, at ambient conditions in flowing a mixture of hydrogen and argon. A systematic investigation of the processing parameters has been made, revealing that temperature, hydrogen flow rate, catalyst and substrate morphology are critical for the growth of SiNws. Furthermore, in this work we show that the use of different coatings on the Si substrate improves the


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SiNws growth. In this regard TiN-coatings are responsible for the growth of vertically aligned SiNws, and silica nanospheres-coatings produce a high density of SiNws. The synthesized SiNws have been characterized by FESEM and HRTEM microscopies, X-ray diffraction, and X- ray photoelectron spectroscopy. It has been demonstrated that the nanowires have a Si core and an external oxidized shell, indicating that an oxide assisted growth mechanism could be responsible for the formation of the SiNws. On the other hand, we have successfully demonstrated that selective SiNws growth can be induced by local indentations on the Si substrate. The local pressure caused by the indentation process generates metastable Si, which enhances the catalyst aggregation in the indented areas. We have also achieved a simple method to grow SiNws on selective areas by depositing the catalyst exclusively on selected positions of different substrates by using appropriate masks.

DEVELOPMENT OF HYPERBRANCHED SILICON NANOWIRES FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC APPLICATIONS

Francisco Márquez, Universidad del Turabo; Annette Malavé, Universidad del Turabo; Abraham García, Universidad del Turabo; María Cotto, Universidad del Turabo; José Ducongé, Universidad del Turabo; Teresa Campo, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid; Arancha Gómez, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid; Sergio Pinilla, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid; Eduardo Elizalde, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid; Carmen Morant, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid

The need of alternative energy sources has recently become a priority. The increasing demand of energy, the alarming increase of greenhouse gases emission and the variability of oil prices, have driven the need for clean and renewable energy. In this situation we find in the sun a great ally. Solar PV is on the verge of achieving the price- per-watt needed to become a competitive energy source. That is why profitability is as important as efficiency, so Silicon is our greatest asset. Joining the great development of silicon technology and new and great possibilities that nanotechnology holds, we can take the final leap necessary to become photovoltaic energy a competitive and profitable source of energy. The main goal of this research has been the synthesis of a nanostructured silicon surface capable of a high reduction of the reflectance, using an inexpensive and scalable method. For this purpose, hyperbranched silicon nanowires (HbSiNWs) have been prepared on monocrystalline Si (100) wafers by using an acid etching method. This method involves etching of silicon wafers in a silver nitrate and hydrofluoric acid based solution. We have studied different parameters of this growth and its effects over the specific area and reflectivity. The HbSiNWs have been characterized by SEM, BET, and XRD. As a result, we have obtained HbSiNWs with very low levels of oxygen and specific areas ranging from 350 to 500 m2g-1. This material could have important applications in energy, including its use for reducing the reflectivity in photovoltaic solar panels.


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DISTRIBUTION AND DIVERSITY OF FUNGI ACROSS TROPICAL COASTAL ECOSYSTEMS.

Yentel A. Rodríguez Ortiz, Universidad del Turabo; Diana L. Laureano-Córdova, Universidad del Turabo; Yomarie Bernier-Casillas, Universidad del Turabo; José R. Pérez-Jiménez, Universidad del Turabo

Mangroves, as a biome, sustain highly productive ecosystems while been subjected to coastal dynamics. On the coast, estuarine sediments constitute an unusual habitat for fungi. Puerto Rico is bordered by mangroves and has the second largest estuary (Jobos Bay) managed as a national reserve. As fungi are considered primary decomposers of complex organic matter, we aimed to describe the heterogeneity and biogeography of fungi in those tropical coastal ecosystems. The composition of fungal communities was characterized by amplification of partial ITS from soil and sediment samples for Terminal Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (TRFLP). DNA extraction was performed on 91 samples, but the ITS was amplified in only 24 positive samples. A total of 1329 phylotypes (TRFs) were detected, representing 345 different TRFs (richness). Fungal community in mangroves oscillated between 23 (Vieques) and 152 (Maunabo) TRFs whereas in Jobos Bay oscillated between 18 (CNT18) and 79 (OTR37). Currently, no TRF was found in common among all samples. Only one sample detected 29% of the picks, suggesting potential endemism. Similarity analyses, based on the Sorensen index, illustrate the association with geographic proximity. The similarity index fluctuated between 19% and 72%, and was highest among neighboring sites. Characterization of fungal individuals by sequencing of cloned ITS amplicons is in progress. The application of TRFLP provides information on fungi diversity, and shows that the fungal community is distinctive for mangrove and sediments ecosystems.

DIVERSITY IN THE HABITATS SURROUNDING THE ARECIBO OBSERVATORY IN THE NORTHERN KARST OF PUERTO RICO

Nohelysmarie Delgado, Universidad del Turabo; María Fernanda Barberena-Arias, Universidad del Turabo

The karst region in Puerto Rico covers 27.5% of the terrestrial surface and is divided in North and South areas. This region harbors native and endemic animal species, some of them being threatened or in critical status. Nevertheless, few studies have addressed the biodiversity status of the karst fauna. As a consequence, we studied the forest habitats surrounding the Arecibo Observatory in the northern karst with the objective to build an inventory of the fauna diversity associated to these habitats. For this, several field trips were made to the Arecibo Observatory lands to visit four areas: vegetation under the reflector, forest, vegetation surrounding the photometer and the staging area. In each area we used a butterfly net, we took a soil sample and we scout the area in active research to collect animals. Collected organisms were placed in labeled vials with alcohol. A second census was performed in January 2013 by taking litter samples from two 20 m x 20m plots. We found a total of 168 individuals, 41 were present under the reflector, 50 in the forest, 74 in the photometer and 3 in the staging area. These individuals represented a total of 13 orders, 8 were present under the reflector, 11 in the forest, 10 in the photometer and 2 in the staging area. Isopoda only occurred in the forest, Diplopoda was unique to the vegetation under the reflector, and Phasmatodea to the vegetation surrounding the photometer.


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These data suggest that animals associated to these areas include unique and common organisms. This is an ongoing project and new samples are being identified.

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT OF POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS (PAHS): A PERSISTENT UBIQUITOUS ORGANIC POLLUTANT

Yolanda Ramos-Jusino, Universidad del Turabo, School of Sciences and Technology

Environmental management, particularly of hazardous pollutants is a way to attain more resilient societies. There is need of practical and implementable approaches to characterize the environment in diverse ways and inform decision making. Intraurban assessment of exposure to air pollution has become a priority area of study. Some key features of persistent environmental challenges are complex feedback loops, the need to understand the effects of low level exposures to numerous stressors as opposed to high-level exposure to individual stressors, to understand social, economic and environmental drivers and for systems thinking to devise optimal solutions. Transportation emissions are the best characterized individual source of PAHs which attached mainly to the carbon fraction of fine particles. The smaller the air particle, the greater is its association to human adverse health effects. Puerto Rico has been reported to have the highest prevalence of pulmonary diseases in the United States. In this presentation a combination of alternatives to manage exposures to PAHs are shown. Reduction of fine particulate matter emissions results in a reduction of toxic pollutants for which sufficient data is not available, control technology does not exist or is very expensive to regulate. Indicators may track changes and identify priorities for PAHs management. Detection of direct health status connection with the environment by sensor technologies and geographic positioning systems trackers may help to identify hot spots. Keeping urban green space promotes physical health and psychological well-being reducing significantly the possibilities of diseases and cancer. Green infrastructure for water runoff management can reduce exposures to PAHs from transportation. Finally, greater access to risk and vulnerability information at the community level increase resilience.

FISH SPECIES DIVERSITY AT THREE DIFFERENT RIVER ECOSYSTEMS IN PUERTO RICO

Antonio E. Carro-Anzalotta, Universidad Interamericana de PR

An inventory of fish species at three river ecosystems was done by capturing fish with cast nets and electrofishing equipment. The three rivers were: Cibuco at Corozal, Usabon at Barranquitas and Río Lapas at Salinas, Puerto Rico. Fish diversity was highest at the Usabón river with a total of 12 species (all of them exotic), Río Lapas had 10 species (7 native and 3 exotic) and Río Cibuco had 5 species (4 native and 2 exotic). Native species were most prominent at Lapas and Cibuco rivers and both ecosystems included marine fishes among the natives. Native fish species have not been documented during the time of the study at the Usabón river either because they have never been present or because manmade dam structures prevent native fishes to migrate and complete their diadromous life cycle.


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FUNGAL ENDOPHYTES FROM SPATHODEA CAMPUNALATA IN PUERTO RICO

José I. Cruz-Rodríguez, Universidad del Turabo; José R. Pérez-Jiménez, Universidad del Turabo

The Tulipan flower is the main reason why the Spathodea campanulata was introduced in Puerto Rico in the late 20th century. The tree S. campanulata is part of the Bignoniaceae family and ever since it was introduced it has been occupying unused agriculture areas and it has been the only specie to regenerate in the fields where sugarcane grew. Our objective is to determine the diversity of fungal endophytes in Spathodea campanulata. Recently, bark, flower and leaf samples were collected, cultivated and then isolated. Fungi was found on bark and flower samples. Some of the fungi found were Penicillium, Cladosporium, Trichoderma, Acremonium, Fusarium and Paecylomyces from bark samples and Aureobasidium, Aspergillus and Cladosporium from flower samples. New flower and leaf samples were collected from the S. capanulata in Puerto Rico. Pieces were cultivated in Malt Extract Broth 0.5x for 7-10 days at room temperature. Flower and leaf samples were cultivated in Malt Extract Agar 1.0x for 1 week at room temperature. The fungi that grew the week after was isolated with a glass cover slip in Potato Dextrose Agar 1.0x for 1 week at room temperature. Fungi identification with lactophenol, DNA extraction and TRFLP from samples are in progress. A diverse endophytic fungi community was found in the invasive Spathodea campanulata. The elucidation of endophytic fungi in invasive plants provides a source for biotechnological applications and ecological understanding.

HIGH-DENSITY GROWTH OF SI NANOWIRES ON SILICA NANOSPHERES

Arancha Gómez-Martínez, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid; Teresa Campo, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid; Francisco Márquez, Universidad del Turabo; Sergio Pinilla, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid; Eduardo Elizalde, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid; Carmen Morant, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid

Li-ion batteries are widely used due to their many advantages over other devices, such as the lightness of its components, its high energy density and shock resistance, absence of memory effects, and its ability to operate a large number of cycles. But they also have a major disadvantage: its rapid degradation. The strategy to avoid this problem could be the use of nanostructured materials in the electrodes, both cathode and anode. Nanostructures offer advantages over comparable bulk materials in improving battery performance because they increase the active area of the electrode and reduce the stresses produced by the Li ions. In this study, we present an appropriate method to synthesize Si nanowires (Si Nws) on silica nanospheres for future applications in the development of anodes for Li-ion batteries. Silicon nanowires have been synthesized by a thermal CVD process at 900 ºC and ambient conditions, in flowing a controlled mixture of H2 and Ar. Crystalline Si (100) wafers, covered by a thin film of the catalyst (10nm thick), were used as substrates. In order to enhance the active surface area and increase the Si Nws growth, silica nanospheres were also synthesized and deposited by spin coating on Si (100) substrates before deposition of the catalyst and CVD treatment. The synthesized Si Nws have been fully characterized by AFM, FESEM and HRTEM microscopies, X- ray diffraction and EDX analysis. In this research we show a simple method for the growth of a high density of Si Nws. A spatial confinement of Si Nws could be achieved by depositing silica nanospheres on specific areas, so that Si Nws were grown only on the silica nanospheres surface.


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INCIDENCE OF DERMATOPHYTOSES IN THE 5TH TOE IN THE SOUTHERN AREA OF PUERTO RICO

Yorki E Serrano Natal, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Puerto Rico

Fifty samples of nail scraps were analyzed in search of dermatophytes fungi. The samples were taken off voluntary people of the South area of Puerto Rico. The hypothesis was that most people in Puerto Rico have the condition of nail dermatophytosis in the fifth finger of the feet. The position of the fifth finger in shoes or sandals provides a direct contact that benefits the fungus to grow on the nail. The tropical and humid weather of Puerto Rico also favors the growth of these fungi on nails. Diabetes, VIH, and bad hygiene are other factors that contribute to an increase for this condition. Nails scraps were inoculated in Sabouraud Dextrose Agar with chloramphenicol and Dermatophyte Test Medium (DTM). Microscopic examination was performed to identify dermathophytes and other fungi. Dermatophytes are keratinophilic fungi that belong to three genera: Trycophyton, Epidermophyton, and Microsporum. Some species of these genera were found in several samples. Trycophyton rubrum, T. mentagrophytes, and Microscoporum canis were the most common species found. Not all samples were positive to dermathophytes, but this type of onychomycosis is more common in adults with health problems or suppressed immunologic conditions.

INTERHABITAT CONNECTIVITY OF WINTERING NEW ENGLAND SONGBIRDS ON THE SOUTH COAST OF PUERTO RICO: DEVELOPMENT OF AN EMERGING PARADIGM IN THE FACE OF GLOBAL WARMING

F. C. Schaffner, Universidad del Turabo, I. Rodríguez-Colón, Universidad del Turabo; G. Caraballo-Cruz, Universidad del Turabo; W. Vázquez-Carrero, Universidad del Turabo; E. E. Font-Nicole, Universidad del Turabo

A profound and alarming effect of global warming, beyond increasing droughts and a general warming trend, will be the dramatic increase in sea level that will bring about the transformation, reorganization, and possible elimination of habitats essential to the survival of wintering North American migratory land birds. This research will examine an emerging paradigm in the evolutionary ecology of migratory songbirds - local diurnal interhabitat migrations - in multiple species of wintering New England migratory songbirds that depend simultaneously on interconnected mangrove and secondary dry forest habitats in the low-lying coastal region of the Jobos Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (JBNERR), located on Puerto Rico’s eastern south coast that are imperiled by sea level rise. This ongoing research documents the multiple space use strategies, including site fidelity and philopatry, of several species of both local diurnal migrants and sedentary (night-roosting on their foraging sites) migrants, their breeding origins, the development of wintering social structure and the effects of intraspecific and interspecific competition. This research also documents the extent to which these species are dependent on unprotected secondary dry forest habitat, including early successional habitat arising from recently abandoned agricultural areas still in need of legal protection and imperiled by sea level rise (SLR) and coastline transformation, providing unprecedented insight into the behavior, abundance, and ultimately the evolution of multiple species of migrants.


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MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE REINTRODUCTION OF THE PUERTO RICAN CRESTED TOAD (PELTOPHRYNE LEMUR) TO THE EL TALLONAL NATURAL RESERVE, ARECIBO, PUERTO RICO

Ingrid M. Flores- Vallejo, Universidad del Turabo; Fred C. Schaffner- Gibbs, Universidad del Turabo

The Puerto Rican crested toad, Peltophryne lemur is the only native toad to Puerto Rico. Peltophryne lemur is listed as Threatened by the US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) and the Department of Environmental and Natural Resources (DNER) of Puerto Rico. Due to the absence of sightings of the crested toad in northern Puerto Rico, since 1992; the Puerto Rican Crested Toad Recovery Group determined that the species reintroduction into wild in the north should be done. In 2006, through a memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between USFWS, DNER and CDK approximately 4,000 tadpoles were released into three artificial ponds at private natural reserve. Flores-Vallejo evaluated the physical and chemical parameters of the three ponds where Peltophryne lemur tadpoles were released, such as temperature (°C), dissolved oxygen (mg/L), specific conductivity (mS / cm) and total dissolved solids (g/ L) to identify limiting factors that may influence their metamorphosis. Also, Flores-Vallejo determined the initial orientation of juvenile Peltophryne lemur during their emigration of each pond. This research identified that canopy cover, water temperature and dissolved oxygen are factors that limit the survival of tadpoles. This research also produces the first photos of a juvenile Rhinella marina preying on a recently metamorphosed Peltophryne lemur. Management recommendations include the restoration of habitat pond without canopy cover, reforesting around the pond and towards the karst formations. Other recommendations include modifying the canopy cover of the other two ponds to minimize organic matter falling into the water causing a decrease in dissolved oxygen concentration and to increase sun exposure to raise the dissolved oxygen concentration by the growth of photosynthetic algae. This study provides useful knowledge for the management of future reintroductions to the recovery and conservation of this species.

MICROBIAL FORENSICS RESPONDS TO ENVIRONMENTAL RISK

José R. Pérez Jiménez, Universidad del Turabo

Microbial forensics is a relatively new field that searches for microbial causes in cases such as bioterrorism, medical negligence, or outbreaks of food-borne diseases. Molecular techniques have supported the specific detection, characterization, and monitoring of responsible microbes. Similar approach can be applied to assess the environmental quality in the face of threatening disturbances. We have developed a suit of molecular tools for the specific documentation of bacteria capable of degrading petroleum derivates, mobilizing arsenate in nature, or surviving extremely saline habitats. We have documented a rich bacterial community in mangroves that changes along geographic location, plant species, and anthropogenic impact. Among them, bacteria capable of degrading hydrocarbons were detected for further isolation and characterization. In the other hand, bacteria respiring arsenate may be responsible for the mobilization of toxic species in water reservoirs. We have characterized the gene for the process in several isolates setting basis for eventual monitoring of environmental sites. We have


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found in the natural environment, microbial mats, a bacterial group not reported from tropical hypersaline sites before. Our research for several years has illustrated the diversity and richness of selected bacterial groups dealing with environmental disturbances and providing insights about process taking place for further applications. The information gathered is useful in understanding dynamics in the tropical environment and guiding remediative and conservation strategies.

NONPOINT POLLUTION OF MAJOR CHANNELIZED WATER SOURCES TO LAGUNA CARTAGENA WITH PHOSPHORUS

Yashira Sánchez-Colón, Marie, Universidad del Turabo; Fred C. Schaffner, Universidad del Turabo

Eutrophication of wetlands is an important environmental problem caused by nutrient enrichment, principally phosphorus (P). Nonpoint sources can greatly impact the aqueous environment to become a major source of P and nitrogen to body of water. The goal of this study was to characterize the channelized external sources of P (Soluble Reactive Phosphorus [SRP] and Total Phosphorus [TP]) that enter Laguna Cartagena (Laguna Cartagena National Wildlife Refuge) under high versus low rainfall during 2010-11. P concentrations were taken from the Principal Drainage Canal adjacent to Road 305 at the University of Puerto Rico Lajas Agricultural Experiment Substation, the Principal Drainage Canal inside the Refuge to the west of the town of Magüayo (drainwater and runoff), and Margara Canal (drainwater and runoff; this is the continuance of Margara Creek). Concentrations of SRP (29.3 µg/L to 797.9 µg/L) and TP (250.4 µg/L to 2339.2 µg/L) in the water of the canals to the lagoon under high versus low rainfall are sufficiently extreme to be classified as eutrophic (30-100 µg/L) and hypereutrophic (> 100 µg/L) and suppose contributions of agricultural runoff and domestic effluent (probably rural household grey water). Restoration of the lagoon requires the prevention and control of nonpoint P pollution to levels compatible with EPA quality standards.

ONTOLOGICAL MODELS AND SEMANTIC WEB DESIGN USING RDF/OWL: TOOLS KIT DEVELOPMENT, REQUIREMENTS, AND INVESTIGATION AREAS.

Rafael M. Rivera López, Universidad del Turabo

Semantics is the process of communicating enough meaning to result in an action. A sequence of symbols can be used to communicate meaning; and this communication can then affect behavior. An information web is an organic entity that grows from the ever changing interests and energy of the worldwide community it serves and supports. It is, in many ways, a reflection of the direction the conglomerate is taking regarding a particular view or interest. Smart web applications and models build upon semantics and the web to innovate and integrate data and results. Web semantics models are used to organize human thoughts in the form of explanation and actionable knowledge essential to decision making with a global focus and perspective. It is the future and the future is here and actionable through resources available now. Our presentation will cover the tools kits required for web


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semantics modules and applications, operating systems environments, programming languages, resource description framework (RDF) and the complete ‘package’ necessary to gain advantage of these technologies. We will explore the possibilities analyzing several models and will cover the fundamentals of our investigation areas in Network Security (ISO27001), Business Knowledge and Decision Support Models, Communities of Practice/Knowledge hubs design/development and Green IT implementation model.

PHOTOCATALYTIC HYDROGEN PRODUCTION BY WATER SPLITTING USING AU@TIO2 NANOWIRES UNDER UV-VIS LIGHT IRRADIATION

Francisco Márquez, Universidad del Turabo; María Cotto, Universidad del Turabo; Carmen Bonilla, Universidad del Turabo; Abraham García, Universidad del Turabo; José Ducongé, Universidad del Turabo; Arancha Gómez, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid; Sergio Pinilla, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid; Teresa Ocampo, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid; Eduardo Elizalde, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid; Carmen Morant, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid

The surface of the Earth¡¦s crust receives more than 95% sunlight in the range of visible light (mostly 400-600 nm) and for this reason visible light driven photocatalysts have been heralded as a crucial breakthrough in photocatalytic processes for water splitting. In fact, from a practical point of view, the most important factor for applying the sunlight absorption to water splitting for hydrogen production is the discovery of efficient and stable photocatalysts. These photocatalysts are semiconductor materials consisting of essentially an electron occupied valence band and an unoccupied conduction band. This process has been regarded as a promising solution to resolve the global energy and environmental problems. In this research, photocatalysts based on Au@TiO2 nanowires have been synthesized by hydrothermal approach. These catalysts were obtained as layers of ca. 100 ƒÝm-thick, that were grown on the surface of monocrystalline Si (100) wafers. The catalytic activity was measured by putting water (with Na2S and Na2SO3 as sacrificial reagents) into contact with the Au@TiO2NWs catalyst supported on Si wafers, at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. The water splitting reaction was conducted in a quartz reactor equipped with a water- cooling jacket. The reaction mixtures were irradiated at different light wavelengths (from 220 to 700 nm) using a solar simulator and appropriate cutoff filters in a static air atmosphere. The evolved gases were analyzed by gas chromatography with a thermal conductivity detector using N2 as carrying gas. The effect of the different synthesis parameters (synthesis temperature, Au-Ti atomic ratio, and calcination temperature) on the photocatalytic production of hydrogen has been studied in order to determine the best experimental conditions. The catalysts have been characterized by X- ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and BET.


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PHOTOCATALYTIC HYDROGEN PRODUCTION BY WATER SPLITTING USING ZnCdFeCu NANOPARTICLES UNDER UV-VIS LIGHT IRRADIATION

Francisco Márquez, Universidad del Turabo; Abraham García, Universidad del Turabo; María Cotto, Universidad del Turabo; José Ducongé, Universidad del Turabo; Teresa Campo, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid; Eduardo Elizalde, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid; Carmen Morant, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid

Photocatalytic water splitting with generation of hydrogen is a green process that involves activity of a semiconductor material under sunlight irradiation and ambient pressure and temperature. This process has been regarded as a promising solution to global energy and environmental problems. In this research, photocatalytic hydrogen generation by water splitting ( H2O (l) ̈ H2 (g) + 1/2 O2 (g) ) has been studied on photocatalysts based on ZnCdFeCu solid solutions, synthesized by coprecipitation of the metal precursors. Iron and copper nanoparticles were incorporated as cocatalysts to enhance the photocatalytic activity of the ZnCd solid solution. The effect of the different synthesis parameters (synthesis temperature, elemental atomic ratios, amount of Cu and Fe incorporated in the catalyst and calcination temperature) on the photocatalytic production of hydrogen has been studied in order to determine the best experimental synthesis conditions. The catalysts have been characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and BET. The experiments of photocatalytic water splitting were performed in aqueous solution of the photocatalyst previously dispersed in a soft ultrasonic bath. The reaction mixtures were irradiated at different light wavelengths (from 220 to 700 nm) using a solar simulator and appropriate cutoff filters in a static air atmosphere. To facilitate the catalyst dispersion in the reactant solutions, a magnetic stirrer was used. The evolved gases were analyzed by gas chromatography with a thermal conductivity detector using N2 as carrying gas. The photocatalytic activity was found to be clearly dependent on the specific area of the photocatalyst.

PHYCOLOGICAL CULTURE OPTIMIZATION FOR THE PRODUCTION OF FUEL OILS

Abisrael Morales-Feliciano, Universidad del Turabo; Jean García-Díaz, Universidad del Turabo; José R. Pérez-Jiménez, Universidad del Turabo

In the last decade, scientists have been looking for another energy source that is less harmful to the environment than fossil fuel, while reducing greenhouse emissions (GHG’s). These are responsible for the warming in the earth's atmosphere known as global warming. With the emerging need to reduce these GHG’s, microalgae have been proposed as an alternative to the production of biofuels. Our objective is to optimize the lipid production in four strains of algae: Isochrysis galbana, Nannocloropsis occulata, Botryococcus braunii, and Chlorella vulgaris. These algal strains have been observed to contain between 20%-50% lipid content in a native environment which makes them ideal candidates for optimization. It has been observed that certain critical parameters can obstruct or augment algal growth rates. These parameters include pH levels, light wavelength, medium nutrient composition, and physical growth conditions. We observed direct effects on growth rates and lipid production when variations to


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these parameters were altered. Growth curves were plotted to analyze change in optical density. Glucose addition to the media in a concentration of 2.5g/L increased the growth level 15 times on Botryococcus braunii and induced a prolonged adaptation phase in Nannocloropsis oculata with minimal growth. Medium was also supplemented with waste fluids from a cheese production factory which sustained algal growth. Isochrysis galbana and Chlorella vulgaris displayed variable growth levels which may result when aggregates form exopolymers in more mature culture, to be elucidated by microscopic examination. Assays on solid medium displayed prolonged growth rates on all algae strains, which demonstrates the microalgae’s capacity to adapt to varying environments.

POPULATION TRENDS IN WEST INDIAN WHISTLING DUCKS AND OTHER DENDROCYGNA SPECIES AT LAGUNA CARTAGENA, PUERTO RICO

Fred C Schaffner, Universidad del Turabo; Yashira Marie Sánchez-Colón, Universidad del Turabo

After decades of absence, West Indian Whistling Ducks (WIWD) (6 individuals) were observed at Laguna Cartagena in December 2003 following a fire that significantly altered habitat in this dystrophic freshwater wetland system. WIWD numbers continued to increase, with 53 individuals counted on 24 December 2006. At least 6 families of WIWD nested in cattails growing on floating peat islands from October to December 2006, 2007, and 2008, and 1 family nested there in the spring of 2010. Increasing totals of 40-80 individuals were observed in April 2007, 2008, and 2009, and December 2009. Totals of near or above 100 were observed in April and December 2010, and in April 2011, with a total of 116 individuals observed in December 2010. The population remained variable, but, in general, declining until April 2012. After this date, the water in the lagoon was drained and numbers remained small. Three Fulvous Whistling Ducks and 3 White-Faced Whistling Ducks were observed on 10 July 2005, with the passage of Tropical Storm Dennis, and another 2 White-faced Whistling Ducks were observed on 29 July 2007, with the passage of another major rainstorm. A single Black-bellied Whistling Duck was observed at Laguna Cartagena for several days in November 2008.

SHIFT OF SOIL BACTERIA IN RESPONSE TO SALINITY REGIME IN RIO GRANDE DE MANATÍ

José Lafontaine-Serrano, Universidad del Turabo, Barceloneta; Alexis Sánchez-Pérez, Universidad del Turabo, Barceloneta; Luis M. García-Orta, Universidad del Turabo; José R. Pérez-Jiménez, Universidad del Turabo

Microorganisms in soil are essential to maintain biogeochemical cycles, but the response of soil microbial diversity to transient saline influences remains unclear. Along the Río Grande de Manatí, microbes in riverbanks are transported in water throughout a salinity gradient. Our purpose is to determine changes in soil microbiotas as are exposed to contrasting salinity conditions. The study is been conducted in three sites in the Río Grande de Manatí (Puerto Rico): freshwater area, estuary, and 'mouth' of the river. Culture medium was used at low concentration (0.5X), prepared with water of the


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different sampling points to grow the microorganisms. The used method was serial dilution to estimate bacterial populations and to isolate potential prospects. Our results show antimicrobial activity in soil samples from the estuary and the delta, under native conditions. A million of colonies forming units were detected for each site despite the salinity of the water. Bacterial population seems to survive the effect of changes in salinity along the examined river system. However, the bacterial content may have changed as fittest strains cope with environmental stress of salt concentration. Modern DNA-based molecular techniques will be applied to overcome the limitations of traditional cultivation methods to assess microbial diversity. Additionally, isolates will be tested for biotechnological applications.

SYNTHESIS NANO-SIZED (BA0.5SR0.5)1-XNDXCO0.8FE0.2O3-δ USING A CAVITATION METHOD

Edaris Rodríguez-Izquierdo, Universidad del Turabo; Edgar Mosquera-Vargas, Universidad de Chile; Santander Nieto, Universidad del Turabo

Solid Oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) have the potential to be the most efficient and cost-effective system for direct conversion of a wide variety of fuels to electricity. Fuel cells are energy conversion systems that efficiently generate electricity for stationary or transportation application from fuels like hydrogen or hydrocarbons. There are various types of fuel cells. Among them, SOFCs are very promising because they offer flexibility in terms of the type of fuel. The challenges hindering SOFC commercialization arise from their high operating temperature. Development of a SOFC able to operate in the so-called intermediate temperature range (IT, 450-650 oC) is needed. The performance and durability of SOFCs depend strongly on the microstructure and morphology of cell components. Nanomaterials play a key role in the SOFCs: large surface area nanopores are needed for oxygen transport within the air electrode, as well as hydrogen and water transport within the fuel electrode. In this research, (Ba0.5Sr0.5)1-xNdxCo0.8Fe0.2O3-δ (BSNCFO) (0.00 x 0.20) compounds were synthesized by the chemicals solution, solid state reaction method, and characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD). The samples were then submitted at a cavitation process and, after that, structurally studied by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The results indicated that we have developed a top-down method for fabrication of nanoparticles for IT-SOFC.

SYNTHESIS, STRUCTURE, ADSORPTION SPACE AND MAGNETIC PROPERTIES OF NI-OXALATE POROUS MOLECULAR MAGNET

Christymarie Rivera-Maldonado, Universidad del Turabo; Rolando Roque-Malherbe, Universidad del Turabo; Agustín Ríos, Universidad del Turabo; César Lozano, Universidad del Turabo; Ramón Polanco, Universidad del Turabo; Pedro Fierro, Universidad de Puerto Rico, Recinto de Mayagüez

A technological alternative to absorb carbon dioxide and minimize the greenhouse effect is the use of Metal Organic Frameworks (MOF’s). MOF’s represent a new class of porous crystalline materials. During this research there were synthesized 35 metal organic compounds using two modifications of the


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solvothermal process: The first procedure is at room temperature (27 oC) or heated at 70 oC; and the second was carried out under reflux conditions. The characterizations of the samples were accomplished with infrared Fourier Transform Spectrometry (DRIFTS), Raman Spectrometry (RS), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), X- Ray Diffraction (XRD), adsorption and with a Vibrating Sample Magnometer (VSM). As the study consist in adsorption, the priority was given to the one that shows the higher weight loss obtained from the TGA and shows crystalline properties in XRD. From all the samples synthesized, the Ni-Ox-MOF displayed the highest weight lost and crystalline properties. The TGA data display a 10% of weight loss and indicated that it has a pore volume. The adsorption analysis showed that the pore volume is 0.10 ± 0.01cm3/g. The XRD profile indicated that it is a layered compound. The DRIFTS, Raman and XRD data revealed that each layer is formed by nickel cations linked by bisbidentate and bridging-bis-bidentate oxalate ligands and the DMF molecules are perpendicularly linked to the nickel cations to produce stacking. The VSM study demonstrates that it is a paramagnetic material. It was confirmed by using different databases that the Ni- Ox-MOF is unique and none studied in other research. The significance of this MOF is related to its porosity and magnetic properties. It is very difficult to achieve both characteristics in the same material. The material could be sensitive to small molecules; thereafter Ni-Ox-MOF possibly will be used as magnetic senor to trap CO2 from the environment.

THE CARBON AND OXYGEN STABLE ISOTOPIC COMPOSITION OF WATERBIRD EGGS FROM SOUTH FLORIDA: INSIGHTS INTO FEEDING ECOLOGY AND GEOGRAPHIC RANGE

G. J. Mackenzie, Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science; F. C. Schaffner, Universidad del Turabo; P. K. Swart, Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science

We measured the d13C and d18O concentrations of ~ 550 eggshells collected from the Florida Everglades and Florida Bay, representing several species of wading birds (Ardeiformes) - Great Egret, Great White and Great Blue Heron, White Ibis, Roseate Spoonbill, Little Blue Heron, Snowy Egret, Tricolored Heron, and Reddish Egret. These data showed a major difference in the d13C of both the eggshell carbonate (inorganic) and organic matrix between the Everglades and Florida Bay as well as a difference in the d18O of the eggshell carbonates. The samples from the Everglades were significantly depleted in d13C, but enriched in d18O compared to Florida Bay. The differences in d13C between the two areas represent fundamental differences in the d13C at the bases of the food chains between the Everglades and Florida Bay: the Everglades being controlled by the d13C Particulate Organic Material (POM) derived from terrestrial, mostly C3 vegetation, while Florida Bay is dictated by d13C of POM derived from seagrasses and other marine vegetation. The more enriched d18O reflects significant isotopic enrichment of the water in the Everglades as a result of evaporation.


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THE CHALLENGES TO EMPLOY TILLANDSIA RECURVATA SP AS BIOMONITOR OF POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS FROM TRANSPORTATION IN PUERTO RICO

Yolanda Ramos-Jusino, Universidad del Turabo

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) adverse properties demand an assessment of their concentration, trends, and source profile in the atmosphere. Transportation is their best characterized source, but national distribution of high emitting vehicles for particulate matter (PM) has not been evaluated. Gaseous emissions have been studied extensively, but PM emissions are less understood. Reliable geographic representations of these emissions are needed; however, high costs of conventional high-volume air sampling is a limitation. Alternatively, monitoring using plant surfaces has been employed. In Puerto Rico, Tillandsia recurvata (‘nido de gungulén’) has great potential for this purpose. Standard methods for determining PAHs in plants do not exist. To attain this goal, an extraction technique specific to the selected species is needed. The extraction and subsequent quantification of PAHs from soil, sewage sludges, water, or air can be achieved with a number of established methods including solid-phase extraction, sonication, sequential supercritical fluid extraction, and focused microwave assisted extraction. However, these methods cannot be applied to PAH analysis in plant since their tissue structure depends on the species and the age and are highly rich in pigments, essential oils, fatty acids, or alcohols. In this presentation, we share our experience in collecting and extracting PAHs from T. recurvata leaves and conclude about its usefulness in a regulatory process to establish emissions limit values.

THE INFLUENCE OF HABITAT COMPOSITION AND FOOD AVAILABILITY ON MIGRATORY AND RESIDENT BIRD ABUNDANCE AND DIVERSITY IN A SUBTROPICAL DRY FOREST IN SOUTHEASTERN PUERTO RICO

Waleska Vázquez Carrero, Universidad del Turabo; Fred C. Schaffner, Universidad del Turabo

Habitat selection on the wintering grounds is crucial for migratory bird survival and for a successful migration. Vegetation features can influence resource availability for birds, an important factor affecting habitat selection. I will identify the use of secondary dry forest by both migratory and resident birds. Using three sites with distinct degrees of disturbance and successional stages, I will evaluate the abundance and diversity of avian communities depending on the characteristics of each site, including plant composition and arthropod abundance. For this, fixed-radius point counts and mist netting will be used in order to quantify bird presence and fitness (body condition index, BCI). For site characterization, plant identification, relative density, frequency, and dominance will be assessed using point- centered quarter methods (PCQM); arthropod sampling will include branch clippings and leaf litter collection, for canopy and floor insect communities. Special focus will be placed on sedentary species, those known to roost in their foraging habitat, one migrant (Ovenbird, Seiurus aurocapilla) and one resident (Bananaquit, Coereba flaveola), assessing body condition and possible interactions within habitat. Potential relationships of habitat structure and vegetative composition (or tree dominance) with avian species richness and body condition will be assessed. With this information, habitat use can be


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evaluated so as to establish better conservation plans for migratory and resident birds, bringing additional information for the restoration and conservation of favorable spaces.

THE TEMPERATURE OF THE RAIN IN PUERTO RICO

Ronald T. Richards, Universidad del Turabo; Anastacio Emiliano, Universidad del Turabo

The temperature of the rain has been measured for short periods during projects, but nowhere it is regularly measured. On thousands of oceanic tropical islands, the trade winds blow consistently from the east. As a parcel of air moves from east to west, it looses moisture to rainfall. This model is simplistic but, if it captures enough of the relevant physics then, it will make useful predictions. Compared to the eastern end, the western end of an island with easterly trade winds will have lower humidity, a larger diurnal air temperature cycle and colder rain, surface water, and ground water in wells and springs. With the exception of the hypothesis about the rain, all of these hypotheses can be tested with data that are publically available on the Internet. Sensors to measure the temperature of the rain cannot be bought and need to be designed and custom built. This project uses a commercially available Hobos Temperature logger mounted in a sensor built from materials available in local stores. The first part of the project was to see if the data published from the airport can predict the temperature of the rain in Trujillo Alto, a distance of 7 km away. The second part of the project is to see if the rain in Gurabo is warmer than the rain in Moca. At present, the hypothesis is unproven and there is no statistically significant difference between the rain from each of the two stations. Better knowledge of climate variables, like the temperature of the rain, can give us insights about aquifer management, the range of flora, fauna, bacteria, and fungi, as well as more energy efficient air conditioners. Science conducted on oceanic tropical islands that are rich in data can be applied to the thousands of islands where data are sparse.

UNPRECEDENTED CATALYTIC ACTIVITY OF CUO NANORODS SYNTHESIZED BY HYDROTHERMAL APPROACH

Francisco Márquez, Universidad del Turabo; María Cotto, Universidad del Turabo; Abraham García, Universidad del Turabo; Carmen Bonilla, Universidad del Turabo; José Ducongé, Universidad del Turabo; Teresa Campo, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Eduardo Elizalde, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid; Carmen Morant, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid

During the last years, nanomaterials have attracted a great deal of attention due to their applications in different fields such as catalysis, nanodevices, sensors, energy storage and biomimetics among others. CuO is a p-type semiconductor metal oxide with a narrow band gap (1.2 eV), an antiferromagnetic material and a high temperature superconductor. Copper oxide nanoparticles are a versatile material with relevant interest in a wide range of applications, including heterogeneous catalysis. recent efforts have been directed toward the synthesis of nanostructured CuO with the aim to enhance its


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performance in currently existing applications. One of the most interesting catalytic reactions using CuO nanoparticles as catalyst is the Huisgen cycloaddition. This reaction belongs to the classification of click reactions. In this case, the synthesis of the desired triazole is accomplished by a 1, 3- dipolar cycloaddition using an azide and a terminal alkyne, and represents a powerful means for the synthesis of numerous compounds with relevant applications in medical, chemical and pharmaceutical research. Recent studies have shown that CuO nanoparticles can be used as heterogeneous catalysts in catalyzing cross coupling of C-N reactions. These reactions are normally accomplished at 110 °C in DMSO in presence of KOH and air, and allow the easy synthesis of diverse organic compounds. Other catalytic application of CuO nanoparticles, with special environmental relevance, concerns the oxidation of carbon monoxide, required for the purification of feed gas for fuel cells and automotive exhaust gas. These and other relevant catalytic reactions with CuO are being continiously reviewed to improve the selectivity and reaction yield. Different outstanding aspects, such as the size and morphology of CuO nanomaterials decisively affect the catalytic process. In this research we report on the synthesis of CuO nanorods by a novel catalyst-free hydrothermal procedure. Uniform and size controllable CuO nanorods have been obtained by crystallization of the precursor in presence of hydrazine and n- butylamine. CuO nanorods have been successfully tested for several catalytic reactions, namely the Huisgen cycloaddition reaction involving phenylacetylene and benzyl azide, the C-N cross coupling of aniline with iodobenzene, and the catalytic oxidation of CO to CO2.

WHAT SEASHELLS AND BONES TELL US ABOUT HISTORIC USE BY THE NATIVE INDIGENOUS PEOPLE THAT INHABITED THE PRESENT CABEZAS DE SAN JUAN AREA, FAJARDO PUERTO RICO.

Viviana Gonzalez, Universidad del Turabo; Karen Ocasio, Universidad del Turabo; Carlos Perez, Instituto de Cultura Puertorriquena; María Fernanda Barberena-Arias, , Universidad del Turabo

The shores of the Cabezas de San Juan Reserve in Puerto Rico are rich in historical artifacts and food waste left behind by the native indigenous tribes that once inhabited them. As part of an archeological excavation, a parcel was established where samples were taken at consecutive varying depths. Our goal is to study how seashell and bone quantities vary at different depths along the vertical profile in the previously established excavation in order to understand how did these quantities varied through time, and what they can reveal to us about the pre-existing indigenous population. We worked with samples taken in the summer of 2012 by the archeological team. We cleaned and separated them into respective groups: seashells and bones. Once the samples were separated, we counted the total amount of recovered items present in each group and logged the numbers. We were able to observe that the quantities of bones and seashells varied at different depths. It is important to understand the way these tribes lived and survived because it is through this understanding that we can appreciate the extent of the changing lifestyle in Puerto Rico over the centuries. In addition, these data will tell us about the historic use of animal species, whether they are already extinct species, or extant native or introduced. This is an ongoing project, and we expect that future classification of bones and seashells will tell us about hunting styles, capturing techniques, dietary habits and preferences, and the physical capabilities of the indigenous population.


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WHERE ARE MANGROVE ARTHROPODS GOING?

Mariely Diaz, Universidad del Turabo; Juan Mendoza, Universidad del Turabo; Gisel Ortiz, Universidad del Turabo; María Fernanda Barberena-Arias, Universidad del Turabo

Mangroves play an important role in coastal protection because they act as filters of sediments in coastal waters, retaining nutrients and having a high diversity of organisms, such as arthropods. Arthropods are of great relevance because they can inhabit different areas like forests, soils and water. In the forest, the arthropods influence the plants in ways such as pollination of plants in the forest by bees and others herbivorous arthropods. Also, they remove nutrients from the leaves, and decomposers influence soil nutrients through their trophic interactions with decomposers. In Puerto Rico, people have a common knowledge of what a mangrove is but few understand and are aware of the importance of the arthropods in this area. Because we became aware of arthropod importance, we decided to study the associated arthropods in several areas around mangroves to learn about the relationship between arthropod biodiversity and the area where they live. We use a combination of experimental methods and observation in three different habitats of Jobos Bay that were mangroves, early and late successional forests. In each habitat, we collected ten samples using two different methods: branch clipping and butterfly nets. We use samples that were collected during 2011, 2012 and 2013. Collected arthropods were counted and identified to order. The analyzed samples until now show a higher abundance of Araneae and Hemiptera. Other orders varied among habitats. The species composition suggests that habitats have a set of common and unique species, some of which are present all year round while other have a seasonal abundance.

WILDLIFE IN THE CITY: THE RESPONSE OF BIRDS TO URBANIZATION

Eliseo E. Font Nicole, Universidad del Turabo

Urban areas alter land cover permanently, distort energy fluxes, and redistribute species. Urbanized environments produce novel demographic trends that sustain high densities of cosmopolitan species, at the expense of endemics, in a process of biological homogenization. Urban bird assemblages favor species with foraging flexibility, gregarious behavior, and high fecundity. However, most urban ecological studies have neglected the tropical biota of urban areas on islands despite experiencing higher rates of human population growth and having high levels of endemicity. For many bird species, cities provide suitable nesting sites, but few studies have addressed the demographic parameters of fecundity that operate in urban habitats. Cities in some islands tend to sustain higher bird species diversity and densities than in the continents. Thus, urban areas can contribute with the conservation of biodiversity. In Puerto Rico, urbanization patterns have retained interspersed vegetation fragments able to sustain high avian diversity, including many endemics. The goals of this study are to asses the distribution patterns of bird species and community assemblages along a urban gradient in the metropolitan area of San Juan (MASJ), Puerto Rico, to monitor aspects of the urban biology of Bananaquit (Coereba flaveola), and to further understand the human-nature experience within cities. The first objective will be to monitor and to compare the reproductive success of the Bananaquit at


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urban and ex-urban areas sites. The second set of objectives is to determine bird species richness, diversity, relative abundance, and density to generate a population estimate. The third set of objectives is to compare bird species richness among neighborhoods in the metropolitan area of San Juan.

YEAST INVOLVED IN THE DEGRADATION OF PLANT RESIDUES AS A POTENTIAL BIOFUELS SOURCE.

Jean García-Díaz, Universidad del Turabo; José R. Pérez-Jiménez, Universidad del Turabo

The efficient degradation of organic matter into useful biofuels is currently seen as the best alternative to fossil fuels. Anaerobically, strains of Saccaromyces cerevisiae and Pichia stipitis degrade plant residues and lignocellulosic materials into ethanol. Our goal is to isolate lignocellulosic degrading yeasts from decaying organic matter. Samples were collected from several endemic tree barks collected at El Yunque National Forest and general decomposing plant residues in stagnant water on Universidad del Turabo. Samples were cultured in malt extract broth medium and complex selective YPD medium with kanamycin. Isolates were inoculated on Yeast Carbohydrate Fermentation Broth to assay for the fermentation of xylose. After 48 hours of incubation, samples were purified on plates with the same media and incubated until growth could be seen. Preliminary results have shown growth of microorganisms in both selective media and xylose fermentation in at least two samples. Approximately 30 microorganisms have been isolated. Closest homologs are found among Candida rugopelliculosa, Cryptococcus flavescens, Cryptococcus laurentii, Pichia occidentalis, Rhizomucor variabilis, Rhodotorula mucilaginosa, Tremellales sp., Wickerhamomyces subpelliculosa, and Williopsis saturnus. Tests for lignocellulosic degradation are in the process. This research will provide views on the yeast diversity for developing biofuels.


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Social and Human Sciences BOOKS AND READERS IN HIGHER EDUCACTION: REFLECTIONS ON LITERACY

Beatriz Cruz-Sotomayor, Universidad del Turabo

During these times of rapid changes due to the proliferation of information through new technologies, it is crucial to take a closer look at the issue of literacy. Each day, reading, as well as writing, is turning into a dominant communication practice; however, it is important to consider to what extent these practices have to do with a deep understanding of language and with the readers’ capacity to analyze, interpret, and question texts. In this work, we explore the language skills of university students, including fluency, habits, thinking processes, overall attitudes toward the written word, and how these skills build up perception and interpretation as a whole. Both the students as readers, and their relation to texts, are central elements in this study. How does the contact, or the lack of contact, with books and reading enhance the overall thinking process? Texts and books as objects of interpretation, as well as the readers as active agents of interpretation, have to be taken into consideration from a broad perspective. They both function, not in isolation, but in relation to the complexities of cultural, social, economic and even physiological contexts. These relationships give rise to relevant issues in students raised in families, communities or cultures where there are no motivations for developing reading habits, or where reading is generally perceived as passive, as a mere way of receiving information and a mean of instant communication. The practice of reading literature is even perceived as a luxurious activity that has nothing to do with life itself. Yet, this is extremely problematic when we get to talk about a lack of interest in reading in the context of education, especially in higher education. The implication of this phenomenon in the university context is a common ground in today’s academic realm and needs to be deeply discussed.

CAGUAS' DEVELOPMENT DURING THE XIX CENTURY.

Katia Gil de Lamadrid, Universidad del Turabo

Even though the town of Caguas lost some of its territories due to the emergence of new municipalities, in the 19th Century, the town gained economic relevance because of the construction of a Main Road [Carretera Central] which connected Caguas to the capital city of San Juan. During the second half of the 19th Century there was a significant growth in Caguas’ population, as well as in its agricultural and commercial activities. This study presents how Caguas soon turned to be the center of communication between San Juan and Ponce and between the mid-eastern region and San Juan.


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CROSSLINGUISTIC INFLUENCE (CLI) IN MULTILINGUAL LEARNERS

María E. Medina-Callarotti, Universidad del Turabo

Transference is a powerful psychological learning mechanism. It has been widely studied, particularly in the field of Second Language Acquisition (SLA). In general terms, transference refers to the way humans approach a new problem by relying on an existing set of cognitive structures built on prior experience. Aspects of these experiences are stored in memory. Combined with logical thinking, hypothesis testing, and insight, this previous knowledge is carried over to subsequent learning. The term transfer, often associated with behavioral learning paradigms, has been used extensively in SLA literature to explain how and under what conditions the native language influences production, comprehension, and development of a target language. The theory-neutral term crosslinguistic influence (CLI) was introduced in the mid-1980s to denote the phenomenon. Potential sources of native language (L1) influence on the target language have been extensively explored since the 1960s. The traditional conceptualization of CLI as a two-language phenomenon is presently challenged by studies of the multilingual learner, whose mind holds two or more languages. The possibility that more than one language may influence a learner’s processes has only rarely been contemplated. Researchers are now turning to this surprisingly unattended and highly complex area of inquiry: the multilingual, i.e., the learner of an L3, L4, etc. In this paper, recent pertinent research results are examined in order to identify crucial factors affecting CLI in multilingual learners. Recent (post 2000) significant studies of how multilingual learners rely on previously learned languages are analyzed. Factors facilitating or constraining CLI are identified. Some factors affecting the type and amount of multilingual learners reliance on previously learned languages are: language distance; target language proficiency and source language proficiency; recency of use; length of residence and exposure to non-native language environment; order of acquisition; and formality of context.

FEMININE BEAUTY AND ITS LINKS WITH THE MEDICAL AND MEDIATIC DISCOURSE: AN APPROACH TO FOUCALTIAN SUBJECTIVITY

Maria Navarro, Universidad del Turabo

The purpose of this research was to know Foucault perspective, how the medical discourse and media through technologies of power and be constructed subjectivity of female beauty. The researcher was interested in identifying and exploring what categories such discursive construction of subjectivity of female beauty and how it positioned participants before cosmetic surgery breast enlargement. Were interviewed in depth to three females and examined the narratives made by them, in the light of Foucault discourse analysis. The researcher tried to learn more about the social, medical and psychological subjectivity linked to female beauty and contribute to bring the woman to undergo any kind of cosmetic procedures in order to achieve the ideal of what is beauty care and medially constructed. It is hoped that such research tools contribute to mental health professionals for the development and implementation of therapeutic models of empowerment of female beauty, aimed at improving women's view of itself and its quality of life.


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GENDER AND MONSTROSITY IN THE NARRATIVE OF JULIO CORTÁZAR

René Rodríguez-Ramírez, Universidad del Turabo

Throughout the centuries what we now call monstrosity has been closely linked to the social and cultural definitions of gender roles. To say the least, there has been a long “tradition” that has shaped a misogynistic gaze that has produced a discursively constructed embodiment of monstrosity and fatality. This discourse imbricates all fatal characterizations on women. This paper analyzes the way this discourse is built in to the Latin American Literature. It also examines how multiple cultural practices affect and define women’s bodies and how a corporality of the monster is created in the text. I used Julio Cortázar’s narrative to show how literature produces a concrete example of how gender is linked literally to fatality and monstrosity, particularly in the twentieth century Latin American Literature.

MODERNIZATION AND THE ECONOMIC CRISIS IN CAGUAS AT THE END OF THE 19TH CENTURY:1878-1897.

Juan E. Roque Rivera, Universidad del Turabo

During the end of the 19th Century, Caguas municipality promoted and implemented modernizing projects and measures, - for example, trains, roads, side roads, bridges, ornamental codes, and public hygiene - with the objective of confronting the economic crisis of the times. These projects and measures rested on the foundation of reason, which stressed the idea that humanity would reach happiness through progress. This modernization project found both support and resistance in the most influential sectors of the Puerto Rican and Peninsular societies. This study shows how The positions taken by these sectors were rooted on how the results helped or harmed social classes.

READING, WRITING, OBJECT: ANTI-DISCIPLINARY RESEARCH AND ITS CONTEXT

Carlos Cordero Cancio, Universidad del Turabo

Since critical reason must confront what is primarily the loss of the referent under globalization, it must rethink the relation there exists between power, language and reality to address the core of modernity and, in fact, address the very postmodernism of culture. Disciplines operate by the denial of the social and historic nature of what they, in the first place, motivate as an object of knowledge. An anti-disciplinary object operates neither from the stand point of the subject nor the object, but in the space that plunges both in an epistemological transformation. Far from trying to regain truth and reality I strive to steer creativity within a culture that has lost a sense of itself but nonetheless exists, has effects and is disseminated as the world. The text, John Mowitt suggests, is the metonym of fashion and the redistribution of the disciplines of literature, philosophy, aesthetics and psychoanalysis. The text is a methodological field that ambivalently records aspects of these disciplines in and as a stereographic surface of significance in which our reading and writing become cognizant of its institutional


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underpinnings. As an epistemological slide, the emergence of the text invokes a transformation of the object of our study. Derrida's mobilization of reading to embody the infrastructure of a book, or the literary, as it is Kristeva's case with the production of the I and Barthes' analysis of the production of societies pleasures, shifts our attention, not to a recognition of assumptions but, instead, to make those assumptions part of our reading and research. In changing the object of our reading itself, we would be shifting our attention to the institutional grounding of disciplines. We would those be expanding self reflection and knowledge production beyond the limits set by the relation there is between disciplines, colonialism and modernity.

SPANISH READING AND CRITICAL THINKING IN INTERNET TEXT

Lorna Polo Alvarado, Universidad del Turabo

The Internet has provided multiple possibilities to its users, mechanisms and various modalities for reading. This environment provides a wide range of texts that present different approaches, views and positions on various topics. To read from the Internet differs from reading on paper, not only because many of the texts were designed, created and disseminated in a different way, but because on the Internet each page is linked to others or contain multiple information within itself, and sometimes we read jumping between links, which requires a structure of thought that is adjusted to this type of back and forth reading, or not even return. Apply reading and critical thinking to the texts that we find in the Internet is as important as with those texts designed and published in printed form. Readers and critical thinkers must submit the texts of the Internet to a reading in which actives questioning of the ideas of the text and the position of the author, prior to validating or supporting their approaches. This is of vital importance in each reading process.

THE JOURNALISM TRANSFORMATION: IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN JOURNALISM

Maria Vera, Universidad del Turabo

The Journalism Transformation: Impact of Social Media in Journalism studies the relationship of the Internet and social networks with the practice of journalism in Puerto Rico. It also provides information about the vision of several journalists on the island based on the effect of these networks on their professional performance. The work encourages reflection on the part of the institutions responsible for training these media professionals, regarding their roles and their engagement with the challenges of the growing and irreversible use of social networks in the profession.


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THE POWERFUL ELITE IN SAN LORENZO AT THE END OF THE 19TH CENTURY

Félix R. Huertas González, Universidad del Turabo

The purpose of this investigation is to establish the relationship between social economics and political status of merchants and land owners in San Lorenzo at the end of the 19th Century. It will analyze the sales and purchases of the properties and the control of the credit used by the merchants in order to therefore control the farmers’. Finally, the investigation is an attempt to research the social composition of the Samaritan elite to demonstrate the peninsular power of the economy.

resumenes xi encuentro de investigadores editados · rivera, universidad del turabo; josé aguilar,...

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