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R Robles

Publications and source records attributed to R Robles.

At least 37 records · Page 2Linked to original sources
PubMed2003

Integrating qualitative and quantitative methods: comparing HIV-related risk behaviors among Puerto Rican drug users in Puerto Rico and New York.

A dual site project was conducted to assess determinants of injection and sex-related risk behaviors among Puerto Rican drug users. The project focused on injection drug users and crack smokers, and was conducted in East Harlem, NY and Bayamón, PR in 1996-2000. Qualitative methods included ethnographic mapping, focus groups, in-depth interviews, and observations. A survey component (East Harlem, n = 800; Bayamón, n = 400) was also conducted. Procedures to ensure integration of methodologies and comparability of data were developed. This paper describes the qualitative and survey methods used, and presents the comparative HIV risk behaviors. The integration of the two methodologies served multiple functions: each component identified issues to be addressed in the other, enhanced cross-site comparability of data, and assisted in interpretation of findings. The survey data showed high levels of risk behaviors in both communities, with significantly higher levels of risk reported in Bayamón. Conducting studies of similar ethnic groups in different communities provides opportunities to examine diverse sources of influence on risk behaviors. The integration of qualitative and quantitative methods can enhance comparability and understanding of findings, particularly when there are differences in behaviors between communities.

Adult↗
PubMed2002

Effects of housing type and breeding system on the reproductive capacity of the red-legged partridge (Alectoris rufa).

Current methods of intensive breeding of the red-legged partridge (Alectoris rufa) are based on "industrial" laying practices, including removal and artificial incubation of eggs. These procedures can alter the reproductive behavior and physiology of the birds and, therefore, may not be suitable for use in breeding programs designed to increase wild populations. This study aimed to determine the effects of intensive housing and breeding methods on the laying capacity and reproductive behavior of the red-legged partridge. In Experiment 1, 70 pairs from a commercial game farm were randomly allocated into three treatment groups and placed in differing designs of breeding cages: 8 m2 cages with solid sides (n = 30), 4 m2 cages with solid sides (n = 30), and 4 m2 cages with mesh sides (n = 10). The number of eggs laid was recorded each week. In Experiment 2, 30 pairs, placed in 30 closed 8 m2 cages, were used. Fifteen pairs were birds reared under the intensive system used on game farms, and the other 15 pairs were birds adopted by pairs of foster parents when they were less than 48 h old. The total number of eggs laid during the reproductive period was recorded. In Experiment 1, egg production was greater in pairs housed in 8 m2 cages. There were no differences in egg production between birds housed in closed or open 4 m2 cages. In Experiment 2, the rearing method did not affect egg production. In both experiments, regardless of rearing history or cage type, the numbers of eggs laid were considerably higher than published figures for wild red-legged partridges. This fact, together with the absence of incubation by 100% of the females, indicates the considerable physiological and behavioral modifications that red-legged partridges have undergone due to domestication.

Animals↗