Search

In the semiarid highlands of central Mexico the mesquite tree (Prosopis laevigata) is often removed for agricultural and forestry purposes. Clearing of land for agricul tural purposes has a significant impact on soil processes and nutrient dynamics and, ultimately, on crop production. We have studied the effect of the mesquite tree on soil respiration, amounts of bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes, and soil characteristics. Soil was sampled from three distinct locations: under the canopy of the mesquite tree, in the area surrounding the mesquite tree but not covered by its canopy, and in adjacent cultivated land. It was found that the mesquite tree plays an important role in nutrient cycling in arid and semiarid regions. Soil microorganisms and nutrients (N, P, and Fe) were more abundant under the canopy of the mesquite tree than in the surrounding area and in the adjacent arable soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The act of providing care may be the same in all ethnic groups, but the way caregiving is defined by family members is influenced by cultural values and beliefs. This study describes the caregiving experience and challenges of caregivers of Mexican ancestry. Qualitative interviews of 20 family caregivers and thematic analysis of transcribed audiotapes identified four themes that characterized their caregiving experience. These themes include an emphasis on family values, a strong commitment to care, difficulties dealing with everyday life realities, and a reliance on spirituality, all of which added to the meaningfulness and burden of caregiving. Further investigation within a cultural context is warranted in the development of interventions and programs to better assist caregivers in coping with the challenges of providing cancer care.