bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Divergência em QTLs e variância genética para teores de proteína e óleo em soja
Authors: Rodrigues Josiane Isabela da Silva , Arruda Klever Márcio Antunes , Cruz Cosme Damião , Piovesan Newton Deniz , Barros Everaldo Gonçalves de , Moreira Maurilio Alves
Published: December 2015

Resumo: O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a relação entre os parâmetros de divergência em regiões de QTLs e a variância genética em genótipos de soja, quanto aos teores de proteína e óleo nos grãos. Dois grupos de genótipos foram avaliados, em diferentes ambientes, quanto aos teores de proteína e óleo e genotipados com marcadores moleculares de regiões de QTLs. A partir de cada grupo, estabeleceram-se subgrupos por critérios pré-definidos e avaliou-se a relação entre os parâmetros, tendo-se comparado a divergência média e a variância genética entre os subgrupos. Os subgrupos foram definidos com base nos critérios de diferença em divergência média, homogeneidade e heterogeneidade nos subgrupos e proximidade em uma projeção tridimensional da matriz de distância. As percentagens de concordância entre maiores valores de divergência média e de variância genética para o total de subgrupos de cada grupo inicial foram de 72,5 e de 73,4%, respectivamente. Portanto, nestes genótipos, há relação positiva entre as estimativas de divergência em regiões de QTL e variância genética para os teores de proteína e de óleo dos grãos. As distâncias genéticas com base nos marcadores moleculares de regiões de QTLs são eficientes para a predição da variabilidade genética em genótipos de soja para os teores de proteína e de óleo dos grãos.
Fertilidade do solo e estado nutricional do cafeeiro cultivado em atmosfera enriquecida com CO2
Authors: Maluf Henrique José Guimarães Moreira , Ghini Raquel , Melo Laura Beatriz Batista de , Silva Carlos Alberto
Published: December 2015

Resumo: O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos de concentrações de CO2 atmosférico nos atributos químicos do solo, na linha (cafeeiro) e na entrelinha (braquiária), e nos teores de macronutrientes em folhas do cafeeiro. Utilizou-se o delineamento de blocos ao acaso, com parcelas subdivididas e seis repetições. Os tratamentos consistiram de dois níveis de CO2 atmosférico, 390 e 550 μmol mol-1. A amostragem de solo foi realizada na linha e na entrelinha do cafeeiro, em 2013 e 2014, nas camadas de 0-5,0, 5,0-10, 10-20 e 20-40 cm, e de 0-10, 10-20 e 20-40 cm, respectivamente. Avaliaram-se pH, teores de Ca2+, Mg2+, K, P e S disponíveis, saturação por bases e matéria orgânica do solo. Em 2013 e 2014, houve redução nos teores de P na linha do cafeeiro, com o aumento da concentração de CO2. Em 2014, houve redução nos teores de K disponível no solo e aumento dos teores de K na folha do cafeeiro sob 550 μmol mol-1 de CO2. Em cafeeiro cultivado em atmosfera enriquecida com CO2, o teor de P disponível no solo é o que mais reduz, o que indica a necessidade de reposição adequada deste nutriente.
Estudo de metodologias para o dimensionamento de vigas mistas de aço e concreto com perfil celular
Authors: BADKE-NETO A. , CALENZANI A. F. G. , FERREIRA W. G.
Published: December 2015

Resumo Atualmente, com o avanço da tecnologia de corte e solda, perfis de aço com aberturas sequenciais na forma circular, denominados perfis celulares, vêm sendo bastante utilizadas como vigas de edificações. A ABNT NBR 8800:2008 e as normas estrangeiras não abordam vigas de aço e vigas mistas de aço e concreto com perfil celular, o que contribui para que o seu uso seja limitado. Foi desenvolvido e aferido um programa computacional para o dimensionamento de vigas mistas de aço e concreto com perfil celular biapoiadas de acordo com duas metodologias distintas da literatura. Um estudo paramétrico abordando vigas mistas com perfis celulares obtidos de dois perfis I de aço laminados comerciais foi realizado. Nesse estudo, a influência dos parâmetros geométricos do perfil celular e do comprimento do vão da viga na resistência e na forma de colapso foi analisada. Foi possível concluir que em muitas situações o uso de vigas mistas com perfil celular é vantajoso em relação às vigas mistas de alma cheia.
Recubrimientos de carburos de Nb-V-Cr depositados mediante el proceso de difusión termorreactiva (TRD)
Authors: Cuervo Anyerson , Muñoz John Emerson , Pantoja John Sebastián , Vallejo Bastidas Fabio Fernando , Olaya Flórez Jhon Jairo
Published: December 2015

En este trabajo se presentan los resultados del proceso de depósito de recubrimientos de carburos de niobio-vanadio-cromo sobre acero AISI/SAE 1045 y AISI/SAE H13, utilizando la técnica de deposición por difusión termorreactiva (TRD). Los recubrimientos fueron obtenidos usando un baño de sales compuesto por bórax fundido, ferro-niobio, ferro-vanadio, ferro-cromo y aluminio, variando el contenido de cromo (8 y 32 % en peso), a una temperatura de 1.020 °C durante 4 horas. Mediante la técnica de Difracción de Rayos X se evidenció la presencia de fases binarias de VC, NbC, CrC. Las propiedades químicas superficiales y morfológicas de los recubrimientos se estudiaron mediante la técnica de microscopia electrónica de barrido con acople de una sonda de energía dispersiva (MEB-EDS). La dureza de los recubrimientos se determinó utilizando un microindentador LECO M-400-G2 con una carga máxima de 300 g. El comportamiento electroquímico fue estudiado a través de curvas de polarización potencio-dinámicas para determinar la densidad de corriente de corrosión. El comportamiento tribológico se analizó mediante el ensayo “Ball-on-disc”, encontrando un coeficiente de fricción menor en los materiales recubiertos con respecto al sustrato sin recubrir.
Estado trófico de un lago tropical de alta montaña: Caso Laguna de la Cocha
Authors: López Martínez Mery Liliana , Madroñero Palacios Sandra Milena
Published: December 2015

Este artículo presenta los resultados de una investigación realizada con el fin de determinar el estado trófico de la laguna de La Cocha, cuerpo hídrico importante en Colombia y en el mundo, que hace parte del humedal Ramsar laguna de La Cocha, ecosistema que cumple distintas funciones y alberga una gran biodiversidad que se quiere proteger. Para lograr el propósito planteado, esta investigación se realizó entre enero y septiembre de 2013, determinando el estado trófico mediante los índices de Carlson, el índice desarrollado por la OCDE (Organización para la Cooperación y el Desarrollo Económico) y el índice de Carlson modificado por Toledo. Los resultados permitieron clasificar a la laguna de La Cocha como oligotrófica y ultraoligotrófica, característica típica de lagos de alta montaña con bajos procesos de contaminación de origen aloctóno y autóctono.
Remoción de nutrientes en aguas residuales de un matadero de reses usando un reactor biológico secuencial
Authors: Carrasquero Ferrer Sedolfo José , Marquina Gélvez Daniela Carolina , Marquina Gélvez Daniela Carolina , Soto López John Gerardo , Viloria Rincón Stefanía , Pire Sierra María Carolina , Díaz Montiel Altamira Rosa , Viloria Rincón Stefanía , Pire Sierra María Carolina , Díaz Montiel Altamira Rosa
Published: December 2015

Se evaluó la remoción de nutrientes en un efluente cárnico utilizando un reactor por carga secuencial (SBR) a escala laboratorio. La investigación se llevó a cabo empleando aguas residuales de un matadero de reses ubicado en el Estado Zulia, Venezuela. El experimento se realizó en un reactor por carga secuencial con un volumen útil de 2 L. El reactor fue operado bajo una secuencia operacional anaeróbica/aeróbica/anóxica, un tiempo de retención celular de 25 días y dos tiempos de retención hidráulica (11 y 15 h), generando dos tratamientos T1 y T2, respectivamente. Los parámetros medidos al inicio, durante y al final de cada ciclo evaluado fueron demanda química de oxígeno total (DQOT), nitrógeno total Kjeldahl (NTK), nitrógeno amoniacal (N-NH4+), nitritos (N-NO2-), nitratos (N-NO3-), pH, alcalinidad total y fósforo total (PT). Los resultados de las remociones de las variables se compararon mediante un análisis de varianza y separación de medias a través de la prueba de Tukey, utilizando el programa estadístico Statistix 9.0. Las aguas residuales provenientes de la matanza de reses presentaron gran variabilidad en sus características fisicoquímicas, viéndose reflejado en los altos valores de desviación estándar que se obtuvieron. Los dos tratamientos aplicados al efluente industrial del matadero de reses en el reactor por carga secuencial permitieron la remoción simultánea de nutrientes y materia orgánica, debido a la flexibilidad del reactor para adaptarse a distintas condiciones de operación, obteniendo remociones superiores al 95 % para la DQOT, 69 % para el NT y 29 % para el PT.
 
Residuos agroindustriales como adiciones en la elaboración de bloques de concreto no estructural
Authors: Molina Natalia Fuentes , Fragozo Tarifa Oscar Iván , Vizcaíno Mendoza Lissette
Published: December 2015

La introducción de residuos industriales como sustitutos del cemento en bloques ecológicos de construcción, brindan la posibilidad de establecer un amplio desarrollo a nivel ambiental, social y económico. En la presente investigación se fabricaron bloques ecológicos con dimensiones comerciales a nivel industrial, en los que se reemplazó un porcentaje del contenido cemento por cascarilla de arroz, ceniza de la cascarilla de arroz y ceniza volante (caracterizadas mediante ensayos de granulometría, masa unitaria y humedad), en 10, 15 y 20 %, manteniendo constante la cantidad de agua y arena de mezclado del bloque. Los bloques ecológicos obtenidos se analizaron mecánicamente, y se determinó la resistencia a compresión, obteniendo como resultados promedio 0.585 MPa, 0,743 MPa y 0,956 MPa para cascarilla de arroz, ceniza de la cascarilla de arroz y ceniza volante, respectivamente, a los 7, 28 y 45 días de curado; dichas resistencias se compararon con la del patrón, que consistían en el bloque de referencia con 100 % de cemento, las cuales fueron de 0.802 MPa, para observar las características cementantes de las adiciones, las cuales afectan considerablemente la resistencia del eco-bloque. Mediante los resultados obtenidos, se concluyó que el porcentaje óptimo de adición es el 15 % de ceniza de centrales térmicas a los 28 días de curado, como reemplazo parcial del cemento en bloques de concreto, resaltando que aunque existe una disminución en la resistencia a la compresión y tensión en algunos casos, es viable el uso de las adiciones para la elaboración de bloques de concreto como propuesta efectiva para la reutilización de estos residuos que sirven de guía hacia el desarrollo de materiales más competitivos técnica, económica y ambientalmente. 
Modelo basado en factores y reglas para cuantificar la afinidad entre los individuos de un grupo humano
Authors: Calvache Juan Felipe , Pérez Sergio Andrés , Moreno Francisco Javier
Published: December 2015

En este artículo se propone un modelo para cuantificar el grado de afinidad entre los individuos de un grupo humano. Para obtener el grado de afinidad se considera un conjunto de factores y de reglas (para cada factor) definidos por el analista. El modelo se puede aplicar prácticamente a cualquier grupo humano: estudiantes, trabajadores, miembros de una red social, etc. Para validar y mostrar la utilidad del modelo, se analizaron dos grupos de estudiantes de cursos universitarios. Los datos de los estudiantes, correspondientes a los factores definidos para los experimentos, se recopilaron mediante una encuesta que fue diseñada para tal efecto. Aunque se requieren experimentos más exhaustivos, los resultados evidenciaron posibles patrones; e.g., los grupos de estudiantes con mayor grado de afinidad fueron los de mayor calificación promedio grupal. También se observó que existen ciertos individuos que tienden a ser miembros de los grupos más afines y otros que tienden a ser miembros de los grupos menos afines.

 
Análisis de la implementación de un controlador difuso sobre diferentes arquitecturas de hardware
Authors: Jiménez Moreno Robinson , Aviles Sánchez Oscar , Ramos Sandoval Olga Lucía
Published: December 2015

Este artículo compara el desempeño de tres arquitecturas microcontroladas en la implementación de un controlador difuso, las cuales corresponden a un PIC18f2550, un MSP430G2452 y un DSPIC30F4011. Con el objetivo de establecer cuál de ellas ofrece una ventaja o desventaja en términos de la memoria utilizada, tanto de programa como de datos, tiempo de respuesta y potencia consumida. Permitiendo de esta forma establecer las características de cada una de ellas y criterios claros para la selección de alguna, en una aplicación de control embebida y en general cualquier aplicación que exija del dispositivo capacidad de almacenamiento y velocidad de procesamiento.
Biodegradabilidad de residuos de alimentos preparados bajo condiciones mesofílicas y termofílicas utilizando un reactor anaeróbico de mezcla completa.
Authors: Rincon Ramirez Maribet , Rincon Lizardo Nancy , Mata Alvarez Joan , Chirinos Ivan
Published: December 2015

En esta investigación se realizó la digestión anaeróbica de residuos de alimentos preparados (RAP) en un reactor anaeróbico de mezcla completa (RAMC) de 3,5 L, con flujo discontinuo bajo condiciones mesofílicas (CM) a 37 ºC y termofílicas (CT) a 55 °C. El objetivo fue evaluar la biodegradabilidad de RAP con distintos lodos biológicos y tiempos de retención hidráulicos (TRH). Antes de la degradación, se realizó un ensayo de biodegradabilidad con diferentes proporciones de carbohidratos (C) frutas y vegetales (FV) y proteínas (P) en el que se obtuvo una mayor producción de biogás al trabajar con la proporción C:FV:P 24:71:5 en CM y CT. La misma se utilizó en el RAMC con TRH de 30, 25 y 15 d en CM y CT. Para la CM se obtuvieron remociones en ST de 59 % y 67 %, SV de 76 % y 81 % para los TRH de 30 y 25 d, con producciones de metano de 0,64 L/gSVremovido y 0,31 L/gSVremovido. Durante el TRH de 15 d se registró una inestabilidad debido a concentraciones de CO2 del 60 %. Durante la CT (TRH de 30 d) se removieron 67 % de ST, 80 % de SV y se registraron producciones de metano de 0,58 L/gSVremovido. Cuando se implementó el TRH de 25 d se incrementaron los ácidos grasos volátiles hasta 2916 mg/L y se detuvo el tratamiento. Las mejores remociones y producción de biogás se generaron durante el TRH de 30 d en CM con el lodo EFLUENTE CACHAZA.
AVALIAÇÃO DOS EFEITOS DAS ATIVIDADES ANTRÓPICAS NA QUALIDADE DA ÁGUA DO RIO MARRECAS – FRANCISCO BELTRÃO/PR
Authors: Begnini Karoline , Rafaella Fabris Bruna , Castro Bravo Claudia Eugênia , Sauer Pokrywiecki Ticiane , Benedetti Tonial Ivane
Published: December 2015

O presente estudo teve por objetivo verificar a interferência das atividades antrópicas na qualidade na água do Rio Marrecas, na zona urbana e rural, considerando o período de chuvas e de estiagem. Para a realização das análises, foram definidos quatro pontos de coleta previamente definidos e georreferenciados, sendo os pontos P1 e P2, localizados na região urbana, P3 e P4 zona rural.
O ESPAÇO PÚBLICO NA CONTEMPORANEIDADE DA CIDADE: ESTUDO DE CASO BAIRRO SANTA LUZIA - CRICIÚMA (SC)
Authors: Rodrigues Ramilho Fernandes , Ladwig Nilzo Ivo
Published: December 2015

Os espaços públicos assumem diferentes formas e tamanhos na cidade contemporânea, os quais são projetados para o uso cotidiano da cidade. Neste estudo são identificados como sendo espaços públicos as ruas, calçadas e praças do bairro Santa Luzia, município de Criciúma, Estado de Santa Catarina.
A FACE DO ESPAÇO PRISIONAL
Authors: Dávila Marília Tavares , Gonçalves Teresinha Maria
Published: December 2015

O objetivo central deste trabalho consistiu em realizar um levantamento sobre o perfil dos reincidentes e as possíveis causas da reincidência criminal dos reclusos no Presídio Regional de Criciúma (PRC), SC. Pretendeu-se realizar um levantamento de dados documentais sobre os reincidentes no crime; buscar informações sobre a estrutura do PRC; conhecer os programas de ressocialização desse local; levantar dados sobre o perfil socioeconômico, sobre o histórico criminal e os motivos que levaram os apenados a reincidirem no crime, além de coadunar os dados obtidos à luz da psicologia social.
ANÁLISES DE RISCO E CONFIABILIDADE APLICADAS À GESTÃO DE ESTAÇÕES DE TRATAMENTO DE EFLUENTES INDUSTRIAIS (ETEIs): UMA REVISÃO CRÍTICA
Authors: Oliveira Shyrlene Lima de Aquino , Barbosa  Filho Olavo Gandhi Giordano
Published: December 2015

As Estações de Tratamento de Efluentes Industriais (ETEIs), desde a etapa de projeto, devem obdecer a critérios de desempenho médio semelhantes àqueles utilizados para projeto de unidades de produção industrial. Deste modo, é fundamental que as indústrias reconheçam as unidades de tratamento de efluentes como plantas industriais e estabeleçam para essas, sistemas de gestão ambiental efetivos, providos de controles que garantam atendimento à legislação ambiental.
PATRIMÔNIO MATERIAL EDIFICADO DE SOMBRIO (SANTA CATARINA, BRASIL): MEMÓRIA E IDENTIDADE
Authors: Santos Taise Correia dos , Matias Carlos Passos Paulo , Santos Marcos César Pereira , Campos Juliano Bitencourt
Published: December 2015

A preservação dos bens culturais de uma comunidade é um compromisso social que está diretamente ligado ao exercício da cidadania. Compromisso este que extrapola questões políticas/legislativa e/ou econômicas e avança por questões sociais, de identidade, de pertencimento. Questões que forçosamente fazem um apelo ao debate, às discussões com a população e com organizações sociais.
NECESSIDADE DE IRRIGAÇÃO EM PASTAGENS NA REGIÃO DE SOMBRIO, SC
Authors: Back Álvaro José , Dufloth Jorge Homero
Published: December 2015

O trabalho objetivou avaliar a necessidade e frequência de irrigação em pastagem cultivadas nas condições edafoclimáticas de Sombrio, SC. Utilizaram-se as séries históricas de precipitação de Sombrio (código 02940003, latitude 29°02'45"S, longitude 49º36'24"W) do período de 1977 a 2010.
ARTE RUPESTRE NO PARANÁ: NOVAS DISCUSSÕES
Authors: Parellada Claudia Inês
Published: December 2015

No Paraná, sul do Brasil, já foram caracterizados cerca de cento e cinquenta sítios arqueológicos com pinturas rupestres e vinte com gravuras, sendo que alguns possuem as duas manifestações estéticas. Documentou-se arte rupestre em todo o território paranaense, desde a costa litorânea até o oeste, concentrando-se as pinturas na região centro-leste, em abrigos e cavernas areníticas, mas aparecendo também em diferentes litologias, como granitos e basaltos, entre outras.
FENOLOGIA DA FRUTIFICAÇÃO E ESTRATÉGIAS DE DISPERSÃO DE ÁRVORES E ARBUSTOS EM UM FRAGMENTO URBANO NO SUL DE SANTA CATARINA, BRASIL
Authors: Vinholes Alexandra Rocha , Delfino Lilian Sombrio , Bianco Alexandre , Marques Birgit Harter
Published: December 2015

O estudo foi realizado em um fragmento urbano de Floresta Ombrófila Densa das Terras Baixas, no município de São João do Sul, sul de Santa Catarina, com o objetivo de identificar a época de frutificação das espécies vegetais arbustivo-arbóreas e suas estratégias de dispersão. Foram marcados um a três indivíduos de cada espécie vegetal que estava frutificando, classificado sua estratégia de dispersão e, quinzenalmente, foi realizado acompanhamento do estágio de maturação dos frutos, no período de novembro/2009 a setembro/2010. Foram encontradas 18 espécies vegetais com frutos pertencentes a dez famílias botânicas. Melastomataceae, Myrtaceae e Rubiaceae foram às famílias mais representativas com quatro espécies cada uma. Ocorreu disponibilidade de frutos durante todo o ano. A zoocoria foi a estratégia de dispersão encontrada em 17 espécies e a autocoria em apenas uma espécie. Os resultados evidenciam a realização de mais estudos sobre a fenologia e estratégias de dispersão de diásporos das espécies vegetais em fragmentos urbanos com inclusão de diferentes hábitos, visto que foi encontrado um número baixo de espécies arbóreas e arbustivas com frutos.
ANÁLISIS Y DIFUSIÓN DE REACONDICIONAMIENTOS ENERGÉTICOS RESIDENCIALES BASADOS EN SIMULACIONES
Authors: Alvarado Rodrigo García , Campos Pedro G.
Published: December 2015

Este trabajo expone un prototipo computacional para la definición y divulgación de soluciones de mejoramiento ambiental de viviendas unifamiliares en la zona metropolitana de Concepción, Chile. Las viviendas generan un alto consumo energético, por lo que diversos programas públicos e iniciativas privadas permiten adecuar las construcciones existentes para mejorar sus desempeños, con soluciones específicas que se pueden determinar mediante simulaciones dinámicas. Se plantea entonces una herramienta profesional para revisar alternativas, con cálculos de precios y resultados de simulación, para conformar paquetes de mejoramientos por caso. También, este software permite realizar estimaciones según datos básicos, en base a viviendas previamente estudiadas en la zona, para la difusión pública de posibilidades de reacondicionamiento. Se exponen los antecedentes y casos estudiados, así como el desarrollo y funcionalidad del sistema propuesto, actualmente en etapa de prototipo avanzado, y el análisis de algunos casos. El software permite determinar paquetes de reacondicionamiento que generan reducciones del 35% al 65% de las demandas energéticas por vivienda, con costos del 3% al 14% de su valor. Demostrando una adecuada operación y recomendaciones para el mejoramiento habitacional, que permiten ofrecer un apoyo profesional y un medio de concientización ambiental.
CADASTRO, DIAGNÓSTICO E RECUPERAÇÃO DAS ÁREAS VERDES PÚBLICAS URBANAS DE CRICIÚMA/SC
Authors: Ferreira Renan Yamashita
Published: December 2015

As áreas verdes do município são áreas destinadas a manter vegetação, sendo importantes para a qualidade ambiental da cidade. Este artigo relata o trabalho de levantamento, cadastro, diagnóstico e recuperação das áreas verdes públicas urbanas de Criciúma/SC criadas nos processos de loteamentos. Foram consultados os mapas dos processos de loteamentos aprovados, as áreas verdes foram demarcadas em mapas e suas informações cadastradas em uma planilha. Posteriormente foram realizadas vistorias nas áreas, sendo elaborado um diagnóstico das mesmas com a descrição da vegetação, dos fatores de degradação e as ações necessárias para melhoria. Em algumas áreas foram realizadas ações como plantio de árvores, aporte de matéria orgânica, cercamento e remoção de espécies invasoras e resíduos, através das obrigações de compensação ambiental. Observamos a importância e recomendamos envolver a comunidade local, que pode auxiliar a recuperação da área ou causar degradações quando ignorada. O problema das invasões deve ser coibida com pronta fiscalização, sendo mais eficiente com a vigilância da comunidade.
Ethical Issues in Family Care Today
Authors: Barrett Patrick , Butler Mary , Hale Beatrice
Published: December 2015

The abstract consideration of ethical questions in family and informal caregiving might rightly be criticized for ignoring the lived experience of people. This chapter seeks to avoid such oversight by reflecting on ethical issues in family care in a way that is based on careful social scientific inquiry into the well-being of caregivers. The chapter draws on our research and experience in working with family caregivers, both professionally and personally. We step back from a practical concern with policies to support the well-being of caregivers to consider ethical issues associated with their typically hidden role. The chapter begins by noting the growing reliance on family care today. It proceeds to outline the dynamic experience of moving into and out of the caregiver role, before discussing key ethical issues associated with family care. Many of these stem from the risk that caregivers can come to share in the reduced circumstances and vulnerability of those for whom they care. Critical ethical issues are related to the typically "unboundaried" responsibility of family caregivers for the well-being of the cared-for person, something that can be contrasted with the more boundaried and intermittent responsibility of formal caregivers. Additionally, all too often, family caregivers encounter situations where their responsibilities exceed their capacities, but where a choice to not provide care will result in harm to the cared-for person. In discussing these issues, this chapter seeks to make the case for developing more responsive forms of support that promote positive benefits for both caregivers and care recipients.
Standard, Random and Optimum Array Conversions from Two-pole Resistance Data
Authors: Rucker Dale F. , Glaser Danney R.
Published: December 2015

We present an array evaluation of standard and non-standard arrays over a hydrogeological target. We develop the arrays by linearly combining data from the pole-pole (or 2-pole) array. The first test shows that reconstructed resistances for the standard Schlumberger and dipole-dipole arrays are equivalent or superior to the measured arrays in terms of noise, especially at large geometric factors. The inverse models for the standard arrays also confirm what others have presented in terms of target resolvability, namely the dipole-dipole array has the highest resolution. In the second test, we reconstruct random electrode combinations from the 2-pole data segregated into inner, outer, and overlapping dipoles. The resistance data and inverse models from these randomized arrays show those with inner dipoles to be superior in terms of noise and resolution, and that overlapping dipoles can cause model instability and low resolution. Finally, we use the 2-pole data to create an optimized array that maximizes the model resolution matrix for a given electrode geometry. The optimized array produces the highest resolution and target detail. Thus, the tests demonstrate that high quality data and high model resolution can be achieved by acquiring field data from the pole-pole array.
Imaging Fractures beneath a Residential Complex Using Novel 3-D Electrical Resistivity Arrays
Authors: Chávez René E. , Tejero Andrés , Cifuentes Gerardo , Hernández Esteban , Aguilar Diego
Published: December 2015

Typical 3-D electrical resistivity tomography sampling schemes, which require a grid of electrode lines to be deployed, are limited by physical conditions of the area under study. New array techniques are needed to characterize the subsoil beneath anthropogenic or natural structures to define hazardous zones. Use of multiple L-shaped arrays overcome the need for a grid of electrodes by surrounding an area in a square of electrode lines; however, in some instances, the physical environment does not allow closure of a square of electrodes. An alternative array introduced in this investigation is termed the horseshoe array. The horseshoe array combines the L-shaped arrays with equatorial and minimum coupling arrays to overcome array closure problems. Three synthetic examples were investigated to establish the limitations of the horseshoe array, and to describe the geological conditions of the subsoil, e.g., building foundations and fractures.

The first two examples represent two resistive cubes initially located in the southern and northern positions of the array, and then are moved to a diagonal of the array. In both examples, the cube located near the electrode lines was well defined, while the cube located near the line with no electrodes was not detected. On the other hand, a weak signal for the cube located along the diagonal was observed, but only when located near the electrode line. This alternative array revealed a low tri-dimensional resolution zone possessing an inverted triangular-shaped geometry towards the line with no electrodes.

A third example consisted of a low resistivity thin fracture embedded in a highly resistive infill. The solution computed demonstrated that the horseshoe array can resolve the infill close to the surface; however, the thin fracture is masked by the infill.

The above-mentioned methodology was applied on a residential complex named La Concordia. Several buildings within the residential area suffered strong structural damage caused by fractures and subsidence within the subsurface. The residential complex, consisting of six four-story buildings in an area 33 × 80 m2, is located towards the eastern region of Mexico City. The horseshoe geometry, combined with Wenner-Schlumberger, dipole-dipole, equatorial-dipole, and minimum-coupling arrays, was used to investigate the subsurface beneath the buildings.

A maximum depth of 8 m was investigated. A pattern of elongated resistivity anomalies (northwest-southeast direction) were associated with possible fracturing or differential compaction. Such features are caused by intense water extraction of the poorly consolidated clays that cover most of the central portion of the Mexican Basin.
A comparative study of free-hand fine needle aspiration cytology and ultrasound guided fi ne needle aspiration cytology in the diagnosis of thyroid swellings at BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences- a tertiary care centre in Nepal
Authors: Agarwal M , Sinha A K , Agrawal C S , Bhandary S , Tiwari A , Agarwal R K
Published: December 2015

Background: Thyroid lesions are commonly encountered in clinical practice and it  is mandatory to know and record the nature of pathology prior to definitive therapy.  Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is a time tested, cheap, reliable and safe  method to establish a cytological diagnosis of the nature of the disease. Ultrasound  guided FNAC has the potential to reduce inadequacy rates and is regarded as  the optimal cytological method for diagnosis. Objective: To compare the results  of free-hand and ultrasound-guided FNAC of thyroid swellings and to find out  the diagnostic reliability of free-hand FNAC and ultrasound-guided FNAC using  histological diagnosis as the gold standard. Methods: Fifty-five patients with thyroid  swelling who were subjected to free-hand and ultrasound-guided FNACs and who  subsequently underwent surgery over one year were studied. Results: Ultrasound  guided FNAC results revealed 72.75 % benign lesions and 25.45 % of malignant  lesions, and free hand FNAC revealed 52.73 % benign and 16.36% malignant cases.  A 14.55 % inadequacy rate was seen in the free hand group. Histological gold  standard diagnosis comprised of 60 % benign and 40 % malignant cases. Sensitivity  and specificity of free-hand and ultrasound guided FNAC in diagnosing malignancy  of the thyroid were 56.25% and 100%; and 63.64% and 96.97% respectively.  Conclusion: Free hand FNAC of thyroid swellings is more convenient and cost  effective as compared to ultrasound guided FNAC. However, the diagnostic yield  in ultrasound guided FNAC is significantly more in terms of accuracy especially in  cystic and tiny lesions.Health Renaissance 2014;12(2): pp. 78-86
John Lahr,Tennessee Williams: Mad Pilgrimage of the Flesh
Authors: Parker Brian
Published: December 2015

Lahr’s illustrated biography follows Williams’s career from the hilarious New York premiere of The Glass Menagerie to post-mortem squabbles about his will. By modelling each chapter on the New Yorker “profile” style, he can freely mingle biography, theatrical interpretation, and considerations of show-business, sex, social context, and even politics.
Fatigue and Rutting Evaluation of Laboratory-Produced Asphalt Mixtures Containing Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement
Authors: Sabouri Mohammedreza , Bennert Thomas , Daniel Jo Sias , Kim Y. Richard
Published: December 2015

This study evaluated the performance of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) mixtures for (a) RAP percentage, (b) asphalt content, and (c) various base binders. All RAP mixtures were produced in the laboratory for better control of the plant production variables. A simplified viscoelastic continuum damage model was used to evaluate the fatigue properties of the mixtures, and the triaxial stress sweep (TSS) test was used to evaluate rutting. In addition, layered viscoelastic critical distresses (LVECD) pavement analysis was used to predict the fatigue resistance of the mixtures. To explain the observed fatigue and rutting behavior, binder testing was performed on binders extracted and recovered from the mixtures. The test parameters included performance grade, low-temperature critical cracking temperature, and multiple stress creep and recovery parameters tested at a high temperature. Incorporating soft binder was found to be a promising strategy because the binder test data and LVECD predictions indicated a noticeable improvement in the fatigue resistance of the mixes. The TSS test data did not show a significant reduction in rutting resistance. The predictions clearly showed that increasing the asphalt layer thickness could lead to improved pavement performance. Mixtures with low asphalt binder content (0.5% below the optimum binder content) turned out to be susceptible to fatigue. The best strategy for incorporating high percentages of RAP seemed to be the use of a soft base binder while maintaining the optimum asphalt binder content or increasing the asphalt layer thickness.
Development of an Analytical Model to Predict the Field Permeability of Asphalt Pavements
Authors: Tarefder Rafiqul A. , Ahmad Mohiuddin
Published: December 2015

Measurement of the field permeability of asphalt pavement is affected by three-dimensional flow, saturation, and other field boundary conditions. Therefore, field permeability testing is generally avoided for compaction quality control, mix evaluation, and evaluation of moisture intrusion or damage of asphalt pavements. Instead, laboratory permeability is used for asphalt mix (compaction) evaluation. Because most transportation agencies and paving contractors collect field cores for compaction and mix quality evaluation, an analytical model to predict field permeability can be useful in the study of the hydraulic conductivity of field pavements. This study used an analytical model to determine the field permeability of asphalt pavement by using laboratory tests for permeability and permeable pores of cores. Permeability and the permeable porosity of two sizes of asphalt cores were determined in the laboratory with a falling head permeameter that was modified with a salt concentration–measuring meter. The parameters were then used in the analytical model to predict field permeability. The predicted values from the model were found to compare reasonably well with the full-scale field permeability values. The results of the analytical model were compared with the results from existing models, and the developed analytical model showed an improvement over the existing models. The model can be a useful tool in the study of the hydraulic behavior of asphalt.
Psychotropic Drug Prescription in Patients with Dementia: Nursing Home Residents Versus Patients Living at Home
Authors: Jacquin-Piques Agnès , Sacco Guillaume , Tavassoli Neda , Rouaud Olivier , Bejot Yannick , Giroud Maurice , Robert Philippe , Vellas Bruno , Bonin-Guillaume Sylvie
Published: December 2015

Background: Psychotropic drugs are frequently prescribed in nursing homes (NH). Nonetheless, we hoped that institutionalization decreases the number of psychotropic drug classes prescribed, because NH residents may have more psychosocial interventions than patients living at home. Objective: The aim was to compare the type and number of psychotropic drugs prescribed in elderly NH residents with dementia with those in community-living patients. Methods: This cross-sectional study included elderly patients (at least 75 years old) with dementia recorded in the National Alzheimer’s data Bank (“Banque Nationale Alzheimer”) during the year 2012 and who were taking at least one psychotropic drug. Psychotropic drugs were classified as follows: antidepressant, anxiolytic, hypnotic, and antipsychotic drugs. Patients were classified into three categories of dementia severity according to the MMSE score. Results: Among the 50,932 patients with dementia recorded in the BNA, 40.1% had at least one psychotropic drug prescribed. Most of the patients who were treated by at least one psychotropic drug class had antidepressant therapy (69.0%), whatever their residence type, and 16.1% were treated with antipsychotics. Among the study population, 51.9% of the NH residents and 67.4% of the patients living at home had only one psychotropic drug class prescribed. Living in a NH was significantly associated with the more frequent prescription of anxiolytic, hypnotic, and antipsychotic drugs, and with a greater number of psychotropic drug classes prescribed, whatever the severity of the dementia. Conclusion: We underlined the more frequent prescription of psychotropic drugs in NH residents regardless of MMSE scores.
A Pathway Based Classification Method for Analyzing Gene Expression for Alzheimer’s Disease Diagnosis
Authors: Voyle Nicola ,   on behalf of the AddNeuroMed consortium, Keohane Aoife , Newhouse Stephen , Lunnon Katie , Johnston Caroline , Soininen Hilkka , Kloszewska Iwona , Mecocci Patrizia , Tsolaki Magda , Vellas Bruno , Lovestone Simon , Hodges Angela , Kiddle Steven , Dobson Richard JB.
Published: December 2015

Background: Recent studies indicate that gene expression levels in blood may be able to differentiate subjects with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) from normal elderly controls and mild cognitively impaired (MCI) subjects. However, there is limited replicability at the single marker level. A pathway-based interpretation of gene expression may prove more robust. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate whether a case/control classification model built on pathway level data was more robust than a gene level model and may consequently perform better in test data. The study used two batches of gene expression data from the AddNeuroMed (ANM) and Dementia Case Registry (DCR) cohorts. Methods: Our study used Illumina Human HT-12 Expression BeadChips to collect gene expression from blood samples. Random forest modeling with recursive feature elimination was used to predict case/control status. Age and APOE ɛ4 status were used as covariates for all analysis. Results: Gene and pathway level models performed similarly to each other and to a model based on demographic information only. Conclusions: Any potential increase in concordance from the novel pathway level approach used here has not lead to a greater predictive ability in these datasets. However, we have only tested one method for creating pathway level scores. Further, we have been able to benchmark pathways against genes in datasets that had been extensively harmonized. Further work should focus on the use of alternative methods for creating pathway level scores, in particular those that incorporate pathway topology, and the use of an endophenotype based approach.
The Evolution of Caregiver Burden in Frontotemporal Dementia with and without Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Hsieh Sharpley , Leyton Cristian E. , Caga Jashelle , Flanagan Emma , Kaizik Cassandra , O’Connor Claire M. , Kiernan Matthew C. , Hodges John R. , Piguet Olivier , Mioshi Eneida
Published: December 2015

Background and aims: Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) represent a disease spectrum. Caregiver burden in subtypes of FTD has not yet been directly compared with those patients who have co-existent FTD and ALS (ALSFTD). Method: Perceived caregiver burden was evaluated using the short Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI) in patients with behavioral-variant FTD (bvFTD, n = 21), semantic dementia (SD, n = 18), and ALSFTD (n = 15) at the initial clinical presentation and follow-up assessments. The Mini-Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination (M-ACE) and the Motor Neuron Disease Behaviour Scale (MiND-B) were also used. Linear mixed effects models examined longitudinal changes on the ZBI, M-ACE, and MiND-B across groups. Results: Burden at baseline was highest for the bvFTD group. Longitudinally, perceived burden increased for the SD and ALSFTD groups whereas in bvFTD, the level of burden which was high at baseline and remained high with disease progression. The severity of abnormal behaviors at baseline, as assessed by the MiND-B, correlated with baseline levels of caregiver burden and further accounted for 23% of the variance in caregiver burden at clinical follow-up. Conclusions: The trajectory of perceived burden differs across the FTD-ALS spectrum, with SD and ALSFTD caregivers demonstrating an increased burden that develops over time, compared to a persistently high level for bvFTD caregivers, evident throughout the disease course. The evolution of burden in these three syndromes likely reflects the initial presentation and clinical characterization that develops with time. Psycho-education programs for caregivers, which provide better coping strategies for challenging behaviors, may reduce levels of burden experienced with disease progression.
Cerebrospinal Fluid Fatty Acid-Binding Protein 3 is Related to Dementia Development in a Population-Based Sample of Older Adult Women Followed for 8 Years
Authors: Bjerke Maria , Kern Silke , Blennow Kaj , Zetterberg Henrik , Waern Margda , Börjesson-Hanson Anne , Östling Svante , Kern Jürgen , Skoog Ingmar
Published: December 2015

Background: Increased fatty acid-binding protein 3 (FABP-3) levels have been reported in neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) FABP-3 has therefore been proposed as a putative marker for dementia. Population-based studies examining whether CSF FABP-3 predicts later development of dementia are lacking. Objective: The aim of this study was to examine CSF levels of FABP-3 in relation to later development of dementia in elderly women and in relation to Aβ42, T-tau, P-tau181, and CSF: serum albumin ratio. Methods: 86 non-demented women aged 70–84 years who participated in the Prospective Population Study of Women in Gothenburg, Sweden took part in a lumbar puncture in 1992–93. CSF-FABP-3, Aβ42, T-tau, P-tau181, and the CSF: serum albumin ratio were measured at baseline. Participants were examined with a neuropsychiatric exam at baseline and at follow-up in 2000. Dementia was diagnosed in accordance with DSM-III-R criteria. Results: Between 1992 and 2000, 8 women developed dementia (4 AD, 3 vascular dementia, 1 mixed vascular dementia and AD). Higher levels of CSF-FABP-3 at baseline were related to development of dementia (OR 1.36 CI [1.05–1.76] p = 0.022) and the subtype AD (OR 1.38 CI [1.06–1.82), p = 0.019) during follow-up. FABP-3 correlated with CSF T-tau (r = 0.88, p <  0.001), P-tau181 (r = 0.619, p <  0.001), and CSF:serum albumin ratio (r = 0.233, p = 0.031), but not with Aβ42 (r = –0.08, p = 0.444) Conclusion: CSF FABP-3 may be an early marker for later development of dementia, probably related to neuronal degeneration, but independent of Aβ metabolism.
Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone and Mild Cognitive Impairment: Results of the Heinz Nixdorf Recall Study
Authors: Winkler Angela ,   on behalf the Heinz Nixdorf Recall Study Investigative Group, Weimar Christian , Jöckel Karl-Heinz , Erbel Raimund , Dragano Nico , Broecker-Preuss Martina , Moebus Susanne , Führer-Sakel Dagmar , Dlugaj Martha
Published: December 2015

Background: Although some studies reported on the association of serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) concentration and cognition, only one population-based study investigated the association of TSH concentration and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Objective: To investigate the gender-specific association of low- and high-normal TSH concentrations with MCI in euthyroid participants. Methods: Analysis sample 1 included 2,563 euthyroid participants (aged 50–80 years) from the second examination of the population-based Heinz Nixdorf Recall study. Gender-specific TSH quintiles (Q1 low, Q2-Q4 middle, Q5 high TSH concentration) were determined and group comparisons of age- and education-adjusted mean scores were performed for all cognitive subtests. Analysis sample 2 included 378 participants with MCI and 931 cognitively normal participants. MCI was diagnosed according to previously published MCI criteria. Multivariate logistic regression models were performed using TSH quintiles (Q2-Q4 as reference) to assess the association of low- and high-normal TSH concentration with MCI. Models were performed unadjusted and adjusted for sociodemographic and cardiovascular risk factors. Results: Group comparisons showed significant differences only in the immediate recall of the verbal memory task in women. Only women showed a strong association of high-normal TSH concentration with MCI (unadjusted: odds ratio 2.09, 95% confidence interval 1.29–3.37, full adjusted: 1.86, 1.06–3.27). There was no association with low-normal TSH concentration in women and no association of either low- or high-normal TSH concentration with MCI in men. Conclusions: These results suggest that women with high-normal TSH concentration might be at higher risk of cognitive decline. This needs to be confirmed in the longitudinal analysis.
White Matter and Hippocampal Volume Predict the Risk of Dementia in Patients with Cerebral Small Vessel Disease: The RUN DMC Study
Authors: van Uden Ingeborg W.M. , van der Holst Helena M. , Tuladhar Anil M. , van Norden Anouk G.W. , de Laat Karlijn F. , Rutten-Jacobs Loes C.A. , Norris David G. , Claassen Jurgen A.H.R. , van Dijk Ewoud J. , Kessels Roy P.C. , de Leeuw Frank-Erik
Published: December 2015

Background: The relationship between cerebral small vessel disease (SVD) and dementia has been studied without considering white matter (WM) volume, the microstructural integrity of the WM surrounding the SVD, and grey matter (GM). Objective: We prospectively investigated the relationship between these structures and the risk of dementia, and formed a prediction model to investigate which characteristics (macro- or microstructural) explained most of the variance. Methods: The RUN DMC study is a prospective cohort study among 503 non-demented participants with an age between 50 and 85 years at baseline, with baseline assessment in 2006 and follow-up assessment in 2012. Two were lost to follow-up (yielding a 99.6% response-rate). Cox regression analysis was used, to calculate hazard ratios for dementia, of baseline MRI characteristics. Tract-Based Spatial Statistics (TBSS) analysis was used to assess the added value of microstructural integrity of the WM. Results: Mean age at baseline was 65.6 years (SD 8.8) and 56.8% was male. 43 participants developed dementia (8.6% ), resulting in a 5.5-year cumulative risk of 11.1% (95% CI 7.7–14.6). Low WM and hippocampal volume are significant predictors for dementia. WM, WM hyperintensities, and hippocampal volume explained most of the variance. TBSS analyses showed no additional value of diffusion parameters. Conclusions: WM and hippocampal volume were the main predictors for the development of incident dementia at 5-year follow-up in elderly with SVD. There was no additional diagnostic value of the diffusion tensor imaging parameters on top of the macrostructural characteristics.
Products and Mappings of Intuitionistic Fuzzy T0, T1 and T2-Spaces
Authors: Ahmed Estiaq , Hossain MS , Ali DM
Published: December 2015

The basic concepts of the theory of intuitionistic fuzzy topological spaces have been defined by some workers. In this paper, the product and mappings of T0, T1 and T2-spaces have been studied.Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol. 39, No. 2, 223-231, 2015
Influence of Western Jurisprudence over Islamic Jurisprudence: A Comparative Study
Authors: Hamid Syed Sarfaraj
Published: December 2015

Abstract not availableNorthern University Journal of Law Vol.IV 2013; p.13-26