bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Traditional leadership in South Africa: From blood and might usurpation to constitutional accountability
Authors: Nkosi Sipho
Published: February 2024

Despite regional variations, traditional leadership has always been practised in the same way all across oceans and nations. It has always been an incident of birth and gender, and that the rank and status of the mother of the heir-apparent in his father's homestead has often been the overriding consideration. In the past there were methods through which dynasties and bloodlines could be altered, namely, (i) the 'blood and might' usurpation of power, which is the subject of this article; and (ii) oral wills ('dying declarations') that would have been made by the deceased ruler on his deathbed. However, the 'blood and might' method now is merely of historical genealogical significance; it only helps to provide context in the event of a dispute in this regard. To that end, relying on BaPedi Marota Mamone v Commission, as an example, the article explains the applicable legal history, including the significance of the 'blood and might' method in pre-colonial times, and how this helps to place the recent constitutional developments and judicial pronouncements in their proper perspective. The article also demonstrates that the 'indirect rule' of traditional communities -which was the hallmark of colonialism and apartheid - continues to apply albeit under the glare of the Constitution. However, crucial gender transformation should be introduced cautiously into this area of the law, and the change should be gradual and 'adaptive', as reflected in section 2 of the Traditional and Khoisan Leadership Act 3 of 2019. The resources of the affected communities also should not be used to curry favour with any political party or any grouping within it. Failing that, the social fabric and moral and ethical fibre of the affected communities would be ruptured.
Editorial
Authors: Ramantswana Hulisani
Published: February 2024

In 2022, we announced that we would be phasing out the print version of Old Testament Essays. The current issue is the last of our print version. However, readers can still access Old Testament Essays on platforms such as OTE website, SciEloSA, Sabinet and, most recently, EBSCOhost. We are excited to inform you that we are switching to Continuous Article Publication (CAP) in 2024. This means that articles will be published as soon as they are accepted, which aligns well with the Open Access publication model we have already adopted. We look forward to publishing your research more promptly in the future.
The Imago Dei: The Distinctiveness of Humanity
Authors: Coleman Roche
Published: February 2024

Arguments for humans and animals existing in the imago Dei derive from a desire to harmonize Genesis 1:26-28 and alleged scientific views derived from an evolutionary system. An accurate analysis of biblical anthropology reveals the uniqueness of humankind in the areas of distinctiveness ("of which there is only one ") and superiority ("standing alone in comparison with others, frequently by reason of superior excellence" ).1 Considering the attempts to augment the biblical concept of the imago Dei, this paper argues humanity alone resides in the distinct status of being created in the image of God. Three sections will substantiate the unique design of humanity. First, a presentation of the historical view of the imago Dei. Second, an examination of evolution's influence on the biblical rendering of the origin of humanity, human distinctiveness, recasting anthropology, and inferior groups. Third, emphasis on biblical anthropology in Genesis 1:26-28 that culminates with the offering of the lesser for the greater through divination and sacrifice.
The IBdata Web System for Biological Collections: Design Focused on Usability
Authors: Murguía-Romero Miguel , Serrano-Estrada Bernardo , Salazar Gerardo A. , Sánchez-González Gerardo E. , Melo Samper Palacios Ubaldo , Gernandt David S. , Magallón Susana , Sánchez-Cordero Víctor
Published: February 2024

The software design process must put users at the core of the process to enable them to meet their specific objectives effectively, efficiently, and successfully. Thus, a software design for a computing system to consult biological collections guided by the concept of usability will result in an effective and efficient biodiversity informatics tool. Here, we introduce IBdata, a web system to consult biological collections, developed using a design approach based on the architecture of three layers: database, business rules, and user interface. The user interface design was guided by the concept of usability focused on four core concepts: simplicity, adaptability, guide the user through the journey, and feedback. The IBdata web system that we developed is composed of three modules (query, capture and editing, and administration), permitting it to query a database with about 1.7 million specimen records. Biodiversity data query systems must be effective and efficient and should meet the user’s expectations. Software design methodologies play a central role in achieving these goals, and, in this context, interface design techniques that put the user at the core of development are valuable, as in the development of the IBdata web system.
B-3 BLOOD STORAGE v1
Authors: Consortium REDI-NET
Published: February 2024

This protocol describes blood storage.
Imaging and analysis of mouse midbrain tissue labeled by RNAscope v1
Authors: S Conrad William
Published: February 2024

Below we describe imaging, analysis and cell counts of coronal sections of mouse substantia nigra and ventral tegmental area labeled with Slc17a6 (VGLUT2), Slc32a1 (VGAT), and Slc18a2 (VMAT2).
SW-2 SWAB PROCESSING v1
Authors: Consortium REDI-NET
Published: February 2024

This protocol details procedures for total nucleic acid extraction from swab samples.
F-2 FECES PROCESSING v1
Authors: Consortium REDI-NET
Published: February 2024

This protocol details feces processing.
SW-4 SWAB TESTING v1
Authors: Consortium REDI-NET
Published: February 2024

This protocol details standard operating procedure for swab testing.
N_terminal protein labeling v1
Authors: Yuste Checa Patricia
Published: February 2024

This protocol details how to efficiently label a protein at the N-terminus using Clusterin protein as example.
The Textual Component Based on Chomsky's Structure and Halliday's Consistency: “The Land” Poem by Mahmoud Darwish as a Model
Authors: Al-Thunebat Sateh Abdullah , Atta Ahmed Ibrahim Bani
Published: February 2024

This study aims to explore the elements of consistency and harmony in the poem The Land by Mahmoud Darwish. The major components of textual grammar are examined, highlighting the creativity of language in producing endless sentences. It essentially deals with the compositional structures and the elements of their formation at both the surface and deep structures. The descriptive and analytical approach is adopted to achieve the purposes of the study. The results show that the factors of dispersion, discontinuity, and anxiety help to achieve the elements of consistency and harmony. Such factors are shown to generate poetic connotations as well as the textual balance between motives and goals on the one hand and aesthetic meanings on the other.
A Cultural Comparative Study of White and Black Colours in Spanish and Arabic Adages
Authors: Al-Amar Abdullah M. , Ababneh Mohammad D. , Ababneh Imad A.
Published: February 2024

The use of colours in human communication and expression is deeply rooted in cultural values and symbolic meanings. White and black are two colours that hold significant cultural history and symbolism. This comparative study investigates the cultural connotative meanings of white and black in both Spanish and Arabic adages. By comparing the cultural connotations associated with white and black in Spanish and Arabic adages, the paper highlights the similarities and differences these colours invoke in their respective cultures. The comparative study examines the adages' context and cultural background to gain insights into how colours convey meanings and reflect cultural values.
Exploring Queer Identity and Supernatural Realities in Katrina Leno's Summer of Salt and Sometime in Summer: A Comparative Analysis of Coming-of-Age and Magical Realism
Authors: B Harry , M Vijayakumar
Published: February 2024

This study examines the representation of queer identities in two popular young adult novels, “Summer of Salt” and Sometime in Summer, both authored by Katrina Leno. Utilising a queer theoretical framework, the analysis explores the use of coming-of-age narratives and elements of magical realism to create complex queer characters, mainly focusing on Felicity and Julep from Summer of Salt and Aiden from Sometime in Summer. The nuanced and complex experiences of these characters, as portrayed by Leno, are closely examined, with a particular focus on using magical realism as a genre to explore alternative realities and challenge established norms. The significance of young adult literature in reflecting and influencing the awareness of LGBTQ+ adolescents is also explored, with recognition of the decisive role that novels like these can play in cultivating a deeper understanding and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community. The broader implications of Leno's work are analysed, emphasising its literary and cultural significance. The novels are placed within the context of the queer literary tradition and social advocacy, underscoring the importance of including diverse and authentic queer voices in young adult literature. Overall, this study highlights the significance of Leno's work in the ongoing discussion surrounding LGBTQ+ presence in the young adult genre, underscoring the need for continued efforts to promote understanding and acceptance of the diverse experiences of queer individuals.
Professionalizing Legal Translator Training: Prospects and Opportunities
Authors: Al-Tarawneh Alalddin , Al-Badawi Mohammed , Hatab Wafa Abu
Published: February 2024

Legal transactions have permeated every aspect of our life. Much of this is accomplished through legal translators who, by their outputs, impact our personal and professional future. That said, this article seeks to tackle the challenges and opportunities in preparing legal translators for professional practice. The article is a quality review in its nature which adopts the descriptive approach. The interactionist perspective is adopted in this present article to examine the challenges faced by and the opportunities offered to legal translators under training. This examination is placed within the context of the rapidly evolving translation industry and its related interdisciplinary research, which covers the technology and legal translation, quality in legal translation, and training pathways for legal translators. The subjective perspective is acknowledged as the human experience is involved to explain the individual phenomena within broader context of legal translation profession. The article draws that there is a need to make changes in the legal translation status because we need to improve the translator’s perception of their role. Moreover, training models adopted to prepare legal translators have to be updated by revising the outdated practices of legal translation, and integrating the social role to face the new challenges as the translators are the intercultural mediators who facilitate the international legal communication.
Immediate Processing of Sentences in Language Communication
Authors: Zhu Zhangchenxi , Ren Hulin , Li Yuming
Published: February 2024

Sentence processing is a fundamental and critical area of inquiry within the field of language processing, as it plays an essential role in facilitating effective communication. The present study focuses on the immediate processing of sentences in English language communication. The article begins by providing an overview of the basic principles underlying sentence processing. It then delves into the various parsing strategies, including the late closure strategy and the minimal attachment strategy. The modular and interactive models of sentence processing are also presented and discussed. Additionally, the relationship between sentence processing and meaning is explored, with an examination of the role of factors such as presupposition and plausibility in language communication process. Finally, the role of prosody in language processing is expounded upon. The paper draws several conclusions regarding the nature of immediate sentence processing in language communication.
Unravelling Yu Guangzhong’s Identity Through His Poetic Reflections: A Corpus-Based Investigation
Authors: Li Shengnan , Halim Hazlina Abdul , Mamat Roslina
Published: February 2024

This study examines Yu Guangzhong’s identity presented in his self-translated poetry collection, The Night Watchman. It employs corpus linguistic methodologies and utilizes the corpus linguistic tool AntConc for analysis. This study highlights Yu Guangzhong’s identity, which is presented in different categories and topics of poems. It is found that Yu Guangzhong’s identity is ever-changing, varying at different times, and occasionally conflicting and opposing. This study may have practical implications for Chinese literature and culture looking to enhance their international influence, and it may also provide academic insights for investigating other literary giants.
Investigating the Effectiveness of Synchronous E-Learning Tools on Developing EFL Learners' Language Communication Skills Among the Hashemite University Students
Authors: Othman Rema M. , Abushunar Majd S. , Al-Shboul Sabri S.Y.
Published: February 2024

After COVID-19, today’s language classes have become blended with e-learning tools that have become indispensable to the process of learning in many situations. Synchronous e-learning classrooms have been studied for their impact on EFL communication skills, but few studies have been conducted in the Jordanian institutions. The purpose of this study is to investigate the EFL students’ viewpoints on the efficiency of online classrooms in improving their verbal communication abilities. This study consisted of 284 participants who were EFL learners from the Hashemite University. It was conducted during the academic year 2022-2023, and it followed a mixed qualitative approach. Two means of data collection were used: a questionnaire and observations. The results indicated that students have a positive viewpoint toward online learning effectiveness in developing their communication. Nevertheless, students showed that low self-assurance, nervousness over making errors, and poor lexical knowledge are their main concerns when communicating in EFL classrooms.
Estudio comparado de la interacción entre actores en la implementación de programas sociales en Chile y Colombia a partir de la teoría de la interacción contextual
Authors: Peroni Fiscarelli Andrea , Ulloa Osses Francisco , Castillo Ávila Roberto
Published: February 2024

Este metaestudio compara los resultados de la aplicación de un modelo analítico de probabilidad de implementación de políticas (Bressers, 2004) en programas sociales en Chile y Colombia, siguiendo la teoría de la interacción contextual (Javakhishvili y Jibladze, 2018). Cada uno de los programas analizados son clasificados según el nivel de interacción en la implementación y el grado de heterogeneidad de la tarea (Martínez, 2004). La relevancia del estudio reside en la necesidad de avanzar en el conocimiento de la implementación de políticas, superando los modelos bottom-up o top-down, en contextos de alta movilización política y demanda social, junto a una incapacidad de la gestión política de responder dichas demandas. Los resultados muestran que la cooperación es la característica que define la interacción en ambos países, teniendo presencia compartida en casi la totalidad de los casos analizados. Finalmente, esto permite entender comparativamente los desafíos para la política pública actual bajo tendencias como los giros políticos de los gobiernos en contexto de debilitamiento del neoliberalismo como modelo de sociedad compatible con la garantía de derechos.
Analysis of the production of biobutanol in the acetobutilyc fermentation with clostridium saccharoperbutylacetonicum N1-4 ATCC13564
Authors: Jaramillo Obando Juan Jacobo , Cardona Carlos Ariel
Published: February 2024

The conditions and characteristics of biobutanol production in ABE fermentation were studied. A cell growth kinetic model structured according to the proposed metabolic pathway Embden-Meyerhof-Parnas (EMP) pathway for the Clostridium Saccharoperbutylacetonicum N1-4 ATCC13564 reaction scheme was used in a continuous fl ow stirred tank. A sensitivity analysis and optimization based on the decision variables butanol productivity, glucose to butanol yield and glucose global conversion for different feed concentrations and dilution rate were performance. Productivity values of 27,46 mM h-1, yield of 0,65 mmol of butanol per mmol of glucose and fi nal conversion of 95,38% at optimal food concentration of 295 mM and optimal fi nal dilution rate of 0,15 h-1 were obtained.
Artificial vision and identification for intelligent orientation using a compass
Authors: Barranco Gutiérrez Alejandro Israel , Medel Juárez José de Jesús
Published: February 2024

A method to determine the orientation of an object relative to Magnetic North using computer vision and identification techniques, by hand compass is presented. This is a necessary condition for intelligent systems with movements rather than the responses of GPS, which only locate objects within a region. Commonly, intelligent systems have vision tools and identification techniques that show their position on the hand compass without relying on a satellite network or external objects that indicate their location. The methodof intelligent guidance is based on image recognition for the red needle of a compass, fi ltering the resulting image, and obtaining the angle direction, that allows finding the orientation of the object.
CO2 reforming of methane over Ni-Mg-Al-Ce mixed oxides derived from hydrotalcites: Mg/Ni ratio effect
Authors: Daza Carlos Enrique , Mondragón Fanor , Moreno Sonia , Molina Rafael
Published: February 2024

Ni-Ce/Mg-Al catalysts were obtained by means of the hydrotalcite reconstruction method in the presence of [Ce(EDTA)]- complex. The effect of the Mg/Ni ratio was studied when the mixed oxide was reconstructed with 3 wt. % Ce loadings. The materials were characterized by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Thermal-Gravimetric Analysis (TGA), Temperature-Programmed Reduction (TPR-H2), Temperature-Programmed Oxidation (TPO) and CO2Temperature-Programmed Desorption (TPD-CO2). The reduced catalysts were tested in CO2 reforming of methane under two operation regimens: i) reaction between 500 to 800ºC using volumetric ratios of CH4/CO2/Ar=5/5/40 and, ii) isothermal reaction at 700ºC using volumetric ratios of CH4/CO2=18/22 without diluent gas. The solids showed strong basic characteristics and high Ni-surface interactions which determined their catalytic performance. Catalysts with Mg/Ni molar ratios of 2 and 4 showed high CH4 and CO2 conversions with H2/CO molar ratios between 0.7 and 1.1 without coke formation under severe isothermal reaction conditions. The yields and activities were higher when reduction increased.
BaTiO3 cubic synthesis by chemical ways
Authors: Fernández Perdomo Claudia Patricia , Rivera Figueroa Edison , Rodríguez Páez Jorge Enrique
Published: February 2024

In this work ceramic powders of barium titanate (BaTiO3) were synthesized by two chemical methods: coprecipitation and polymeric precursor (Pechini). These methods, highly reproducible and reliable, allowed to obtain nanosized BaTiO3 particles (<200 nm) with high chemical purity, at a temperature of 650 °C; moreover, the cubic phase of BaTiO3 was stabilized at room temperature. We conducted a brief discussion on the mechanisms of particle formation and an adequate description of the synthesis processes. The powders were characterized using infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermal analysis (DTA/TGA) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).
Sulphuric acid leaching of mechanically activated chalcopyrite
Authors: Guzmán Danny , Ordoñez Stella , Aguilar Claudio , Rojas Paula , Serafini Daniel , Silva Washington , Díaz Claudio
Published: February 2024

In order to study the effect of mechanical activation on the sulphuric acid leaching of CuFeS2, four samples were milled using an Atritor mill during 1, 5, 8, and 15 h. The powders were microstructural and morphologically characterized by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. The samples were leached using a solution of H2SO4 (0.54 M) at 298 K. The Cu+2 concentration was determined by means of atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The results obtained indicated that the increase in milling time results in increased recovery of Cu. The maximum recovery of Cu was 38.2 % for a milling time of 15 h.
Design and implementation of a strategy of predictive control of paddy rice drying
Authors: Cubillos Varela Alfonso , Barrero Mendoza Oscar
Published: February 2024

In this paper we present a Model Predictive Controller (MPC) implemented in a rice drying process with inclined silo. A pilot system is used at scale of 1:10, and capacity of 25 kg. In this system temperature and humidity of the rice grains are measured as well as air humidity. Additionally, the flow and temperature of drying air are controlled and measured. In order to design the controller a model based on thin layer and physical first principles is obtained and validated. Then, a MPC controller is designed based on this model. The type of MPC controller used is Dynamic Matrix Control (DMC) which uses the system step and free responses to estimate the next optimal control input. As a result, a good performance of the controller is obtained, showing that this is a promising technology that can be used in the Paddy rice drying process. The results show improvements in: a) reduction in drying time and energy consumption, b) over drying is avoided, c) the drying process is homogeneous, hence the quality of rice grains is better. Consequently, a positive impact on the productivity of the milling regional industry can be reached.
Nitrogen balance estimation in a subsurface flow constructed wetland planted with Heliconia psittacorum for domestic wastewater treatment
Authors: Gutiérrez Mosquera Harry , Peña Varón Miguel Ricardo , Aponte Reyes Alexander
Published: February 2024

The influence of vegetation (Heliconia psittacorum) and the main nitrogen elimination mechanism were studied via the mass balance method in a subsurface flow constructed wetland (HFSS). Six HFSS lab-scale units (microcosms) were built and filled out vertically with gravel and coarse sand. Three of the lab-scale units were planted with Heliconia sp., and the remaining three were left unplanted and run as control units. All of the experimental units were operated with an organic surface load of 5.68 g N m-2 d-1, and a theoretical hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 1.0 day. Results showed a higher N load removal efficiency in the planted units (29.6%) compared to the unplanted ones (24.3%). The nitrogen balance showed that coupled nitrification/denitrification was the main N removal mechanism, since its contribution to the overall removal was 66.7 and 69.7% in planted and unplanted units, respectively. Meanwhile, N accumulation in the support media removed 21.4 and 22.0 % in planted and unplanted units, respectively. N assimilation via physiological activity of Heliconia sp. was responsible for only 0.6 % of the total removal. Despite this low removal rate, it was evident that plants contributed indirectly to N removal in the planted units via atmospheric oxygen translocation and the assemblage of a more diverse microbial community in the rizospheric habitat.
Evaluation of models for the conversion of T-min rainfall distributions to an equivalent one-minute distribution to be used in Colombia
Authors: Emiliani Luis , Luini Lorenzo
Published: February 2024

The design of microwave communication systems requires knowledge of the one-minute cumulative distribution of rainfall. However, since time series of rainfall fulfilling this constrain are not common, the conversion of a distribution obtained from time series with a longer integration time T (such as 30 or 60 minutes) into equivalent one-minute distribution has been proposed as an alternative. This paper reviews existing models for the conversion of cumulative distributions of rainfall and compares their predictions against a database of measured distributions from the Aburrá Valley in the department of Antioquia, with a view towards recommending a model suitable for the Colombian climate. Based on the results of the evaluation, the EXCELLRSC model represents a suitable alternative for rainfall rate predictions in the valley, and the best alternative for predictions in other regions in Colombia. This model would be useful for fade margin calculations for microwave systems, terrestrial or earth-to-space.
Semi-fragile watermarking based content image authentication scheme
Authors: Cruz Clara , Reyes Rogelio , Nakano Mariko , Pérez Héctor
Published: February 2024

This paper presents a block-wise semi-fragile watermarking scheme for image content authentication, with tamper area localization and recovery capability. Before the watermark sequence is generated, the original image is divided into two regions: The Region of Interest (ROI) and the Region of Embedding (ROE), where the ROI is selected manually by the owner of the image and the ROE is rest of the whole image after subtracting region belonging to the ROI. The binary watermark of each ROI block is generated by the DC and the 6 lowest AC components in the zig-zag order of the DCT coefficients of these blocks. These extracted bit sequence are embedded into the LSB of the DCT coefficients of the corresponding ROE blocks which are indicated by a mapping list previously generated using a secret key. In the authentication process, the watermark sequence is extracted from the ROI blocks. Then it is compared with the sequence extracted from the corresponding ROE blocksto determine if the ROI block has been altered; in this case the tampered ROI blocks are recovered replacing them by the extracted watermark sequence from ROE. Simulation results show that the reconstructed image quality and the watermark robustness to JPEG compression are better than the previously reported methods by other authors under the same conditions.
Multiple interacting bad data errors identification in state estimation using combinatorial optimization algorithms
Authors: Ruiz Hugo Andrés , Toro Eliana Mirledy , Gallego Ramón Alfonso
Published: February 2024

In this paper the state estimation problem including hard detection errors are solved using combinatorial optimization algorithms. A novel procedure that combines the classic estate estimation methodology with leverage points theory which are used like sensibility factors and the observability theory are used to penalize the infeasibility in the objective function. The resultant model is solved using several optimization techniques like Tabu Search, Simulated Annealing, Particle Swarm, and the modified genetic algorithm of Chu-Beasley. In order to prove the proposed methodology the 57 nodes IEEE test system is used. The results obtained presents excellent quality.
Hybrid Variable Neighborhood and Simulated Annealing Heuristic Algorithm to Solve RCPSP
Authors: Rivera Juan Carlos , Celín Ana Josefina
Published: February 2024

This paper presents a hybrid heuristic algorithm for solving the Resource Constrained Project Scheduling Problem (RCPSP). The algorithm designed combines elements of Simulated Annealing and Variable Neighborhood Search. Additionally, it uses the method called Justification, which is a method designed specifically for the RCPSP. To evaluate the performance of the algorithm, a statistical analysis for tuning the parameters has done. The results were compared with those reported in the scientific literature.
Kinetic study of the hydrogenation of trans-cinnamaldehyde over Ir/Nb2O5 catalysts
Authors: Rojas Sarmiento Hugo Alfonso , Martínez Zambrano José Jobanny , Reyes Patricio Alberto
Published: February 2024

The hydrogenation of trans-cinnamaldehyde was studied over Ir/Nb2O5catalysts reduced at 473 K (LTR) and 773 K (HTR). The catalysts were characterized by N2 physisorption at 77 K, H2 chemisorption, TPR, and TPD-NH3. Kinetic study of trans-cinnamaldehyde over Ir/Nb2O5 reduced at HTR was carried out in n-heptane at hydrogen pressures in the range of 0.48 to 0.98 MPa, the reaction temperatures were 323-363 K, catalyst loadings 0.1 to 0.3 g and cinnamaldehyde concentrations 0.025 to 0.1 M. Trans-cinnamaldehyde can be selectively hydrogenated to cinnamyl alcohol although the support acidity leads to the formation of byproducts. A Langmuir–Hinshelwood model with molecular adsorption of hydrogen non competitive with organic molecules and considering the surface reaction as the rate-controlling step provided the best fit of the experimental data.
Kinetic of fermentation and antimicrobial activity of Weissella confusa against Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus agalactiae
Authors: Serna Cock Liliana , Valencia Hernández Leidy Johana , Campos Gaona Rómulo
Published: February 2024

The kinetics of biomass and lactic acid production, substrate consumption, antimicrobial activity of Weissella confusa, a lactic acid bacteria with antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus agalactiae and Staphylococcus aureus, bovine-mastitis producing microorganisms, were evaluated. The fermentations were carried out anaerobically in batch using as substrate, commercial substrate (SC), milk supplemented with yeast extract (LEL) and milk supplemented with yeast extract and glucose (LELG) and the kinetic parameters were compared. The greater the inhibition of pathogens, the greater production of lactic acid and the higher yield of biomass is presented on substrate LELG. This substrate presented a diameter of inhibition of 36.33 mm for Staphylococcus aureus after the fourth hour of fermentation and 39 mm of diameter for Streptococcus agalactiae at the eighth hour of fermentation; maximum production of lactic acid was 13.12 gL-1 (at 48 h) and maximum concentration of biomass was 3.07 gL-1 (at 48 h). These results were superior to those obtained on SC where, for the same fermentation time 24.38 mm for Staphylococcus aureus and 30.58 mm diameter of inhibition for Streptococcus agalactiae were obtained; the highest lactic acid production was 11,6 gL-1 (at 12h) and the highest concentration of biomass was 1.18 gL-1(at 24 h). The results suggest that LELG may become a low cost alternative for the production of Weissella confusa, microorganism with great potential for control and treatment of bovine mastitis.
Architecture and performance of optical packet switching router architecture for future Internet networks
Authors: Puerto Leguizamón Gustavo , Ortega Beatriz , Capmany José , Suárez Fajardo Carlos
Published: February 2024

This paper describes the architecture, operation and performance of an optical packet switching node prototype with 2 wavelength/channels and label swapping capabilities. Also, the main subsystems of the node to route and forward optical packets at 10 Gb/s NRZ based on the155 Mb/s 18GHz-SCM encoded label are described.
Detection and correction of inconsistencies of cyclical references in database logical schemas
Authors: García Carlos , Rodríguez Abel , Cabrera Norma , González Luisa
Published: February 2024

The transformations of conceptual schemes into logical schemes carried out by database design tools may result in logical schemes that present some kind of inconsistence and therefore the physical schemes will have implementation problems. This work presents an algorithm that allows detecting and correcting these inconsistencies in the logical schema. This algorithm can be implemented in a database design tool.
Análisis multiobjetivo a un sistema energético
Authors: Bastidas Marlon , Jaramillo Patricia , Chejne Farid , Galván Blas
Published: February 2024

Se presenta una metodología reciente para optimización de un sistema energético complejo introduciendo factores externos, basada en el desarrollo de fronteras Pareto -óptimas a partir de algoritmos evolutivos multiobjetivos (AEMO) empleados en la resolución de problemas energéticos reales de optimización no lineal. Se incluyen objetivos: termo-económico, tecnológico y ambiental, a los cuales se les asigna un peso para evaluar la función de aptitud, formada por una suma de promedios de cada objetivo. El sistemaenergético complejo está formado por un ciclo combinado (subsistema I) y un gasificador (subsistema II). El desempeño de los pesos en cada objetivo se modela por reglas heurísticas, mientras que las modificaciones de las variables de decisión se basan enaplicaciones aleatorias. La metodología expuesta, permite evaluar funciones objetivo formadas por costos del combustible, costos variables de operación y costos de mantenimiento, los cuales están incluidos en la ecuación de capital de inversión. Las metas en la optimización del sistema global son minimizar los costos del producto, minimizar los residuos de la combustión y maximizar la eficiencia exergética.
Assesment of the influence of copper and nickel on the corrosion kinetics of weathering steels by in situ and ex situ impedance spectroscopy
Authors: Castaño Johanna , Restrepo Iván , Calderón Jorge , Morales Álvaro , Echavarría Alejandro
Published: February 2024

A Cebelcor chamber was used to make immersion-emersion cyclical tests of two commercial steels (ASTM A36 and ASTM A242) and three experimental plasma arc melted steels (0.50% Ni, 0.50% Cu and 0.25% Cu+0.25%Ni). Four samples of each steel material were evaluated. Aerated 10-3 M Na2SO4 solution was employed as corrosive solution. The behaviour of each test was evaluated by means of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy technique (EIS) in situ (inside the Cebelcor chamber) for 1, 15, 30, 45, 60, and 90 days by using a frequency range between 200 Hz-0.01 Hz frequency range. At the end of the exposition the rusts were evaluated outside the Cebelcor by means of the (ex situ) EIS, but using a wide frecuency range (900 kHz-0.005Hz). The simulation of these last data by means of an equivalent circuit with Warburg diffusion impedance, showed the existence of two layers of rust, electrically different between them. The results of in situ and ex situ EIS data for 90 days exposition times indicated that exists a statistically significative difference between the ASTM A36 and the other materials, demonstrating a larger ohmic resistance of the rust of the last ones. The ASTM A36 steel showed that the rust is composed of α/γ FeOOH plus magnetite (10%). The ASTM A242 and the experimental steels with nickel, copper and combinations ofboth showed that the rusts are composed of α/γ FeOOH with no evidence of magnetite. A similar effect between copper and nickel in the atmospheric corrosion kinetics was found. All the parameters found in the simulation are interpreted in terms of a phenomenological model proposed for explaining the results.
Alternative geostatistics tools applied to Morroa aquifer modeling (Sucre-Colombia)
Authors: Pérez-García Aníbal , Obregón-Neira Nelson , García-Cabrejo Oscar
Published: February 2024

In this paper, stochastic simulations and some multiple-point geostatistical principles are developed using a comparative methodology consisting of two phases. First, a traditional methodology based on variogram concepts called Conditional Stochastic Simulation (CSS) and more specifically the Sequential Indicator Simulation (SISIM) is applied to the aquifer modeling. Secondly, modern algorithm based on multiple-point geostatistics called SNESIM [1] and ζ Model [4] are implemented to integrate information available in the definition of Morroa aquifer facies. The simulations are realized by using algorithms constructed in references [1, 2] and S-Gems software prepared at Stanford University[3]. Results show the convenience of employing training images with soft and hard data conditioning integrated by ζ Model, and CSS for configuring hydrogeological models when barely deficient information is available.
Performance evaluation in MPLS/IP datanetworks
Authors: López Danilo , Salcedo Octavio , Hernández César
Published: February 2024

This paper shows the results of a study on data transmission with different characterization (best-effort, high-priority best-effort and two types of real time traffic) through the switching protocol for multi-protocol labels in IP networks, compared to the IP data transmission using the Asynchronous Transfer Mode. This study illustrates the best performance the MPLS shows under a network congestion. The NS_2 discrete event simulator was used as experimentation tool.
Commercial turpentine oil enriched with α-terpineol using an acid heterogeneous catalyst
Authors: Aguas-Caballero Iván de Jesús , Villa-Holguín Aída Luz , Alarcón-Durango Edwin Alexis
Published: February 2024

The hydration of α-pinene, limonene, β-pinene, and commercial turpentine oil in the presence of strong acidic cation exchange resin Amberlyst-15 was studied. The acid catalytic hydration was performed in a batch reactor, and the effect of solvent at various temperatures and reaction times was evaluated. The main hydration product obtained from α-pinene was α-terpineol with a yield of 36 % (4 h, 70 °C, 2-propanol as solvent); however, the selected catalytic system was even more active to obtain α-terpineol when β-pinene was used as a substrate, obtaining α-terpineol yield of 38 % in 2 h of reaction. For the hydration of turpentine (70 °C, turpentine:water:2-propanol mass ratio of 1:0.5:2, 15 % w/w catalyst) the composition of reaction mixture after 4 h was 35 % w/w of α-terpineol, 8 % w/w of α-pinene, and 0.5 % w/w of β –pinene, which correspond to a final content of α-terpineol similar to the concentration obtained when α-pinene was used as a substrate (36 % w/w).
Preface
Authors: Montes de Correa Consuelo
Published: February 2024

Dear colleagues:
The Journal of the Faculty of Engineering University of Antioquia publishes quarterly and is devoted to the publication of research results in all areas of engineering. The primary mission of Rev. Fac. Ing. Univ. Antioquia is to assist iberoamerican researchers communicating their achievements to the globalscientiÞ c community; nevertheless, contributions from other regions of the world are by no means excluded.
Preliminary Evaluation of Traffic Resilience against Potential Earthquake in Penang Island
Authors:   Civil Engineering Studies, College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Pulau Pinang, Permatang Pauh Campus, 13500 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Li-Sian Tey , Roslan Nur Syazwani ,   Civil Engineering Studies, College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Pulau Pinang, Permatang Pauh Campus, 13500 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Melati Rhasbudin Shah Shahreena ,   Civil Engineering Studies, College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Pulau Pinang, Permatang Pauh Campus, 13500 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Hooi Min Yee ,   Civil Engineering Studies, College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Pulau Pinang, Permatang Pauh Campus, 13500 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Published: February 2024

When an earthquake occurs in a neighboring country close to Malaysia, such as Indonesia, the tremor can be felt by Malaysians, especially states located along the Straits of Malacca. The epicenter of an active earthquake in the Indian Ocean near northwestern Sumatra, Indonesia triggered a tsunami in December 2004 that hit Penang Island and killed dozens of people and caused minor property damage especially the transportation system. A Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS), Open Street Maps (OSM), Online Questionnaire Survey, and Literature Review were used to evaluate the preliminary traffic resilience in Penang Island. The presence of fault lines and traffic networks from the secondary data were identified and integrated using GGIS and OSM. The contour results showed that the red zone (most affected) and yellow zone (less affected) were mostly located in the northeast district and the upper half in the southwest district while only a small part was covered with the green zone (not affected) in the southwest district of Penang Island. The factors influencing humans in responding during an earthquake were panic and fear from the point of view of history and general knowledge, as well as announcements and evacuations by the government as the highest votes by online questionnaire survey. Preliminary, the traffic networks with higher probability being affected in the events of earthquake are identified so that further study for the traffic resilience can be carried out.
Machine Learning Application for Concrete Surface Defects Automatic Damage Classification
Authors:   Civil Engineering Studies, College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Pulau Pinang, 13500 Permatang Pauh, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Fithry Senin Syahrul , Yusuf Khairullah ,   Jurusan Teknik Sipil, Jln. Cot Teungku Nie-Reuleut Kec., Muara Batu, Achech Utara, 24355, Acheh, Universitas Malikussalleh, Acheh Utara, Yusuf Amer ,   Civil Engineering Studies, College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Pulau Pinang, 13500 Permatang Pauh, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Rohim Rohamezan ,   Civil Engineering Studies, College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Pulau Pinang, 13500 Permatang Pauh, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Published: February 2024

Defects damage in concrete structures are an important measure of structural integrity and serviceability. In the context of investigating the condition of concrete surface that has defects, a visual inspection is usually performed. However, this method is subjective, tedious, time-consuming, and complicated, requiring access to many components of a large project design. Therefore, a Machine Learning classifier for concrete surface defect classification using the Discriminant Analysis Classifier was introduced to more accurately extract the types of concrete surface defects information from the digital images. The aim of this research is to increase the efficiency of concrete surface defect analysis in terms of quality, time and cost. 200 images were collected, with 50 images for each concrete defect (crack, corrosion, spalling, and no defect) serving as control data. The Gray Level Co-Occurrence Matrix (GLCM) is used to create an image processing and feature extraction algorithm. This model is trained using 80% of the image data and tested using another 20% of the image data. Thus, the model achieved 95% accuracy on the training data and 70% on the test data when using Quadratic Discriminant Analysis. These findings is very important to help engineers or construction inspectors in inspection activities.
Influence of Arrangement and Configuration of Extraction Wells to the Capture Zone in Pump and Treat System
Authors:   Centre for Civil Engineering Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Pulau Pinang, Permatang Pauh Campus, 13500  Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Che Daud Farzana Izzati , Abdul Halim Yusyalia ,   Centre for Civil Engineering Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Pulau Pinang, Permatang Pauh Campus, 13500  Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Woei Keong Kuan ,   Centre for Civil Engineering Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Pulau Pinang, Permatang Pauh Campus, 13500  Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Published: February 2024

Urbanization, industrial wastes, non-point sources from agricultural activities, and various types of wastes within a landfill system have posed major threats to groundwater quality in Malaysia. One of the common contaminated groundwater remediation techniques is pump and treat system. This work was conducted to investigate the influence of extraction wells in pump and treat system to remove the contaminant by evaluating the capture zone under different arrangements and configurations of well in an unconfined aquifer system. A conceptual model was developed using PMWIN software at pre-determined soil characteristics and boundary conditions. In the numerical simulation, 17 models were simulated to examine the influence of pumping rate of wells, distance between two wells, wells orientation and the number of wells to the width of capture zone under four study cases. The results show that the width of the capture zone corresponded linearly to the increment of pumping rate. In the two and four wells system, the width of the capture zone was reduced when the extraction wells were aligned parallelly to the flow direction and the distance between wells were increased. However, the capture zone was extended when the well orientation was aligned perpendicular to the flow direction. The simulation results show that the drawdown in the wells was reduced when the number of wells has increased due to the distribution of total pumping rate into two or four wells system. The finding indicated that the arrangement of extraction wells in pump and treat system has a major impact on the capture zone induced by the wells. The simulation results can help to improve the effectiveness of extraction well in pump and treat system by optimizing the extraction process and thus minimize the cost of groundwater remediation.
Power Loss Assessment in Polymer and Ceramic Insulators due to Aging: An Experimental Study
Authors:   Department of Electrical Engineering, Bahria University, 13 National Stadium Rd, Karachi,Pakistan, Ali Basit , Fatima Kaniz ,   Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, Bahria University, 13 National Stadium Rd,Karachi,Pakistan, Nadeem Arman ,   Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology,Germany, Ali Saud ,   Zameen Engineering (PVT) Ltd, Coal fired power plant Jamshoro, Sindh, Zakir Usama ,   Construction and Project Management Services Karachi, Pakistan
Published: February 2024

The objective of this study is to analyze the influence of smog on polymer and ceramic insulators, which can lead to flashovers in the distribution network. An experimental chamber was designed to conduct an aging test on the insulators, where in the chamber was subjected to five different types of artificial environments, including rain, temperature, smog, and dust. The chamber was set to replicate the environmental conditions of a smoggy region based on the last five years data for all environmental factors, such as rain, temperature, humidity, smog, and dust. The accelerated aging test was conducted on 11KV-rated polymer and ceramic insulators. The polymer insulator developed contamination of 0.09 gm, while the ceramic insulator showed contamination of 0.13 gm. Furthermore, a leakage current test was performed on the aged insulators, which resulted in 37uA on the polymer insulator and 201uA on the ceramic insulator. The findings suggest that ceramic insulators are more susceptible to the adverse effects of a smoggy environment compared to polymer insulators. Thus, replacing ceramic insulators with polymer insulators in the distribution network not only reduce losses due to the leakage current but it also improve the cost of installation of new distribution networks that can improve the network’s reliability.