bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flood-threat zoning map of the urban area of Chocó (Quibdó). A study based on interpreting radar, satellite and aerial photograph images
Authors: Maturana Córdoba Zamir
Published: August 2022

A zoning map of areas which flood due to the Atrato River and its tributaries (the Cabí, Caraño and Yesca) overflowing in the urban area of Chocó (Quibdó) was drawn up to be used by aid authorities and Quibdó city as a planning and control tool. This research relied on CIAF (Centro Interamericano de Fotointerpretación) support and assessment. This entity is a subsidiary institution of the Instituto Geográfico Agustín Codazzi which provided their installations and the required geographical material. This research was initially based on interpreting radar (INTERA), satellite ((ANDSAT) and aerial photographic images; this was verified by field verification of the interpreted data. Other variables such as climatic, geological, temperature, topographic conditions, historic and hydrological series and facts regarding the region were studied as additional information required for drawing conclusions. Aerial photographs provided the most reliable images due to their scales, quantity and quality and the date of when they were taken. Radar images (INTERA) were also important when visually analysing a sector’s topography as they were produced by an active microwave sensor (totally eliminating climatic obstacles). On the contrary, satellite images did not have great relevance due to the amount of clouds hampering any kind of analysis. Complementing these results, a calibration curve for analysing this section’s maximum flow values was based on historical series data regarding the Atrato River’s flows and maximum levels recorded at the Quibdó hydrographical station and the river-bed’s cross-section. Implications that the river would overflow or has overflowed were statistically estimated on these results, thereby setting the limits (supported by cartographic data) for the corresponding areas at risk of flooding. A map marking areas at risk of flooding in the urban zone of Quibdó was then designed and a document prepared concluding that neighborhoods on land lying at 25-27 meters above sea-level (or less) and located near the banks of the Atrato river and its tributaries are considered as being mid- high-flood threat areas, having 5-20 and 50-100 year return periods, respectively.
Evaluating response modification factor (R) for some types of steel structure
Authors: Valencia Restrepo Doralba , Valencia Clement Gabriel F.
Published: August 2022

Response modification factor (R), tabulated in the Colombian Design Code as NSR-98, is used in this paper for evaluating internal member forces produced by design earthquake action on steel structures and the inconsistencies pre sent when designing structures when 1% drift limits must be complied with. The article presents the design of 45 frames corresponding to the seismic resistance system of 5 buildings: 15 special moment frames (SMF), 15 special concentrically-braced frames (CBF) and 15 eccentrically-braced frames (EBF). External loads and their combination were used in estimating internal loads and rigidity demands (1% drift) were evaluated in line with NSR-98 requirements. Member strength requirements were evaluated by using the AISC-2005 seismic provisions for steel structure buildings. Modal pushover analysis was used for evaluating the response modification factor for the 45 given frames at different structural performance levels. It was found that this factor was not constant for any of the three structural systems (SMF, CBF and EBF) suggested by NSR-98 and that the values of the response modification factor found in the present investigation were smaller than those tabulated in this design code governing everyday structural design. This would lead to significant errors being made in evaluating design forces, not only in the structures but in the support elements (base-plates, foundations, shear walls) and any structures attached to buildings constructed in line with the seismic resistance system.
Knowledge management as a support mechanism for improving software programmes in micro, small and medium-sized companies
Authors: Capote Joanna , LLanten Astaiza Carlos Julian , Pardo Calvache César Jesús , González Ramírez Alberto de Jesús , Collazos Ordóñez César Alberto
Published: August 2022

Organisations have been forced to change their philosophy due to the vast amount of information made available when running software process improvement (SPI) programmes and working in a way leading to maintaining and converting this information into knowledge in order to adapt and integrate changes quickly and thereby ensuring remaining in the competitive market. This article presents some of the most significant antecedents in defining and implementing knowledge management (KM) in SPI programmes which have been adapted for use in small software companies, as such management represents a philosophy of true organisational capital for companies involved in software improvement projects. The advisability of implementing KM in SPI programmes or projects arising from primary knowledge management targets is analysed, as is its adaptation for such projects according to identified needs, especially related to documenting and manipulating tangible and intangible products produced in an SPI programme.
UNBizPlanner: a software tool for preparing a business plan
Authors: Ávila Cifuentes Oscar , Cortés Aldana Félix Antonio , Ramírez Aya Andrés Yesid
Published: August 2022

Universities are currently expected to play a new role in society (in addition to research and teaching) by engaging in a third mission concerning socio-economic development. Universities also play an important role in encouraging entrepreneurs through training them in business planning. A business plan is a document summarising how an entrepreneur will create an organisation to exploit a business opportunity. Preparing a business plan draws on a wide range of knowledge from many business disciplines (e.g. finance, human resource management, intellectual property management, supply chain management, operations management and marketing). This article presents a computational tool for drawing up a business plan from a Colombian viewpoint by identifying the most relevant stages which are born in mind by national entities having most experience in creating and consolidating companies.  Special emphasis was placed on analysing, designing and implementing a systems development life cycle for developing the software. Reviewing the literature concerning business plans formed an important part of the analysis stage (bearing a Colombian viewpoint in mind).
Grade-two resistance screw shear connector behaviour for a composite section system
Authors: Molina Herrera Maritzabel , Linero S. Dorian Luis , Hurtado A. Xavier Fernando
Published: August 2022

Screw shear connectors have been most commonly used in Colombia for many years; however, there is no current design methodology justifying its use in composite sections and prevailing rules insist that elements used as shear connectors must be tested. Along with the usual details of bending design and vertical shear, horizontal shear design on the composite section interface must be specified, even more so in adjusting such design to Colombian construction. A study was thus undertaken analysing effects on composite sections when screws were used as shear connectors. This research studied 18 composite section models having two 21MPa concrete slabs which had different configurations with one, two or three 1/2", 5/8" or 3/4" diameter shear connector type screws, and 0.08m, 0.12m or 0.14m separations. Three specimens were tested for each model by direct shear or push-out method. The corresponding analysis was done according to laboratory results, assessing the influence of diameter and connector separation on the model’s behavior; screw design in composite sections was then formulated. A model of the tests was analysed using a finite element method based-programme which reviewed in detail those aspects which had little appreciable effect on the physical tests, including concrete degradation in the interface section.
X-ray computed tomography and aggregate image system (AIMS) for studying hot mix asphalt and aggregates
Authors: Álvarez Lugo Allex E. , Arámbula Mercado Edith , Caro Spinel Silvia
Published: August 2022

Achieving reliable pavement design, durable roadway structures and effective maintenance and rehabilitation plans requires the suitable characterisation of the materials used in pavement construction. This paper describes two nondestructive techniques based on image acquisition and analysis and their successful application in pavement engineering: X-ray computed tomography (X-ray CT) and aggregate imaging system (AIMS). The former has been used for characterising the internal structure of asphalt mixes to analyse and model their performance; it has been particularly used for studying the content, size, distribution and connectivity of air-voids and these variables’ relationship with moisture damage susceptibility, capillarity and permeability within the mixes. AIMS was intended for characterising aggregates’ morphological properties (i.e., form, angularity and texture). This technique provides important advantages regarding the standard methods used for obtaining the same aggregate properties: it is objective, reliable, reproducible and can be carried out quickly. This paper was aimed at describing these two techniques’ theoretical backgrounds, mention some recent applications and provide insight into how existing characterisation of materials used in pavement construction can be improved.
Simulating vulnerability functions and seismic damage probability matrix for reinforced concrete frame buildings
Authors: Maldonado Rondón Esperanza , Gómez Araujo Iván Dario , Chio Cho Gustavo
Published: August 2022

This paper outlines vulnerability functions and seismic damage probability matrixes being constructed for reinforced concrete frame buildings. These functions and matrixes were based on simulation techniques and experts’ opinion. The proposed functions and matrixes relate a building’s vulnerability to the level of damage which might be incurred, depending on an earthquake’s motion. Vulnerability was defined by estimating an index proposed by expert opinion. Damage was defined by means of a da 
mage index depending on nonlinear static analysis. Simulation techniques were used for constructing hypothetical buildings and thereby to building the functions and matrixes. Such buildings represented the typical characteristics of Colombian cities’ reinforced concrete frame system (Bucaramanga for example). A set of tools was made for constructing and applying these functions and matrixes, allowing us to determine the level of seismic damage by using the buildings’ characteristics for specific seismic action.
Determining electrical loss in electromagnetically-modelled induction motors using the finite element method
Authors: Cortés Camilo Andrés , Deprez Wim , Driesen Johan , Pérez Jhon J.
Published: August 2022

This paper shows the pattern of a 7.5 kW squirrel-cage induction motor’s electrical loss in balanced and unbalanced conditions, modelling the motor using the finite element method and comparing the results with experimental data obtained in the laboratory for the selected motor. Magnetic flux density variation was analysed at four places in the machine. The results so obtained showed that the undervoltage unbalanced condition was the most critical from the motor’s total loss point of view. Regarding variation of loss in parts of the motor, a constant iron loss pattern was found when the load was changed for each type of voltage supply and that the place where the loss had the largest rise was in the machine’s rotor.
Software tool for analysing the family shopping basket without candidate generation
Authors: Naranjo Cuervo Roberto Carlos , Sierra Martínez Luz Marina
Published: August 2022

Tools leading to useful knowledge being obtained for supporting marketing decisions being taken are currently needed in the ecommerce environment. A process is needed for this which uses a series of techniques for data-processing; data-mining is one such technique enabling automatic information discovery. This work presents the association rules as a suitable technique for discovering how customers buy from a company offering business to consumer (B2C) e-business, aimed at supporting decision-making in supplying its customers or capturing new ones. Many algorithms such as A priori, DHP, Partition, FP-Growth and Eclat are available for implementing association rules; the following criteria were defined for selecting the appropriate algorithm: database insert, computational cost, performance and execution time. The development of a software tool is also presented which involved the CRISP-DM approach; this software tool was formed by the following four sub-modules: data pre-processing, data-mining, results analysis and results application. The application design used three-layer architecture: presentation logic, business logic and service logic. Data warehouse design and algorithm design were included in developing this data-mining software tool. It was tested by using a FoodMart company database; the tests included performance, functionality and results’ validity, thereby allowing association rules to be found. The results led to concluding that using association rules as a data mining technique facilitates analysing volumes of information for B2C e-business services which represents a competitive advantage for those companies using Internet as their sales’ media.
Biometric identification using infrared dorsum hand vein images
Authors: Motato Toro Óscar Fernando , Loaiza Correa Humberto
Published: August 2022

The evident need for improving access and safety controls has orientated the development of new personal identification systems towards using biometric, physiological and behavioral features guaranteeing increasing greater levels of performance. Motivated by this trend, the development and implementation of a computational tool for recording and validating people’s identity using dorsum hand vein images is presented here. A low-cost hardware module for acquiring infrared images was thus designed; it consisted of a conventional video-camera, optical lenses, controlled infrared illumination sources and a frame grabber. The accompanying software module was concerned with visualizing and capturing images, selecting regions of interest, pattern segmentation in the region and extracting, describing and classifying these features. An artificial neuron network approach was implemented for pattern recognition, resulting in it proving the biometric indicator to be sufficiently discriminating, and a correlation-based approach using a 100 image database for static characterisation, determined the system’s maximum efficiency to be 95.72% at a threshold equal to 65. False acceptance rate (FAR) was 8.57% and false rejection rate (FRR) was 0% at this threshold.
Internal combustion engine exhaust pipe flow simulation. Part I: theoretical aspects
Authors: Mantilla Juan Miguel , Falla Camilo Andrés , Gómez Jorge Arturo
Published: August 2022

Unsteady gas flow theory can be used for simulating a spark ignition internal combustion engine’s exhaust system, using pressure waves. The method explained here is based on the discretization of interpolated spaces (called meshes) which are located throughout the whole length of the exhaust pipe, irrespective of its form or size. The most important aspects of this theory are theoretically explored, such as pressure wave movement and shock and their application to cases found in real engines’ exhaust pipes. This work also considers how the simulation must be made, based on the previous exploration. The results (presented as equations in this first paper) show the great influence exerted by pressure wave movement on flow through the engine and therefore on its final performance.
The theoretical foundations for calculating the technical parameters for low-tension overhead electricity lines for use in telecommunications
Authors: Bastidas Mora Henry Arturo
Published: August 2022

This article presents the properties of electric power networks for use as a channel for transmitting telecommunications signals. It starts by exploring the principles and theoretical basis for calculating power lines' critical technical parameters, referring in detail to the following primary parameters: inductance, capacitance, conductance and resistance. It then deals with e secondary parameters (most useful from a telecommunications perspective): characteristic impedance and propagation constant (the attenuation constant being the latter's real component). Different topologies and low- and medium-tension aerial power line structures are verified; a mathematical model is then proposed to analyse their behaviour at high frequencies, extending to most aerial electric power distribution systems in Colombia. This work includes some of the results from previous research which was known as "Using power line telecommunications (PLT) technology for designing a solution for accessing the broadband internet in rural areas of Colombia" by the present author and the Pilot University of Colombia. The proposed mathematical model provides a tool for making theoretical calculations applicable to PLT.
Guadua angustifolia frames' performance when stiffened with precast adobe panels
Authors: Herrera Martinez Juan Carlos , Takeuchi Tam Caori Patricia
Published: August 2022

Studying the structural behaviour of adobe systems in Colombia became extremely relevant after the 1999 earthquake in Armenia due to these systems' good performance during seismic events. These studies were aimed at modernising adobe house construction (by increased use of technology) and providing minimum requirements for them having a suitable degree of seismic resistance, thereby avoiding their collapse. Besides, if it is taken into account that guadua (the main material used in these systems) represents a cheap and profitable material which is socially and culturally-accepted in most of the country, then one has an alternative, unconventional material available which may be suitably used in constructing cheap, functional and safe housing (its limitations and best use having been identified). The foregoing gave rise to the present investigation in which an experimental evaluation was made of a guadua frame system using two types of prefabricated panels in adobe, under horizontal load. Two fullscale frames were built with guadua at the Universidad Nacional de Colombia's School of Engineering in Bogota; the frames' ability to dissipate energy and support inbuilt rigidity (by stiffening them with precast adobe) was tested and strength-deformation curves were experimentally found. Extremely encouraging results were obtained as drift was reduced by roughly 50% and the system's resistance was increased by more than 40%. Mathematical models were also constructed for comparing experimental results with analytical ones.
Developing ripened cheese production in three municipalities in the Caldas department of Colombia
Authors: Mazzeo Meneses Miguel H. , Díaz Arango Félix , Pérez Barrera Luís Ernesto , León Agatón Libardo , Castaño Vélez Andrés Paolo , Jaramillo González Adriana Lizeth
Published: August 2022

Responding to the need to provide added value to milk produced in the towns of Salamis, Aranzazu and Viterbo in the Caldas department, a project was formulated with the overall objective of developing the production of ripened cheeses destined for domestic and international markets. The physicochemical characteristics of raw milk from these municipalities were thus studied initially, finding that standards regarding milk quality and density (1.030-1.033 g / l), total dry extract (11.30%) and defatted dry extract (8.30%) for the first two came within the range considered normal for cheese-making. Subsequently, Camembert, Cheddar, Emmental, Gruyere and Gouda cheese-making processes were developed in the University of Caldas' Food Technology Unit, using an preexperimental design having a single measurement and using techniques currently validated for ripened cheese preparation. Such processes were analysed for the sensory characteristics and evolution involved in ripening (proteolysis and lipolysis changes). Standardising Camembert, Cheddar and Gouda cheese production should be stressed among the results as they eventually complied with the highest sensory preferences and optimum ripening as verified by parameters such as degree of acidity, ripeness and protein and moisture percentage. It was thus found feasible to develop some ripened cheeses from milk produced in the northern municipalities of Caldas and transfer the results to its collection centres for providing greater added value to raw milk production at semiindustrial level.
Falling film reactor for methyl ester sulphonation with gaseous sulphur trioxide
Authors: Torres Ortega Jesús Alfonso , Díaz  Aldana Luís Alejandro , Sánchez Castellanos Francisco José
Published: August 2022

A set of experiments was carried out for validating a 40 cm long and ½ inch diameter sulphonation falling film reactor for the sulphonation of hydrogenated palm stearine-derived dodecylbenzene (DDB) and methyl esters (ME) compared to oleumderived gaseous SO3. Volumetric titration was used for determining the percentages of sulphonated (active) matter, sulphuric acid content and unsulphonated oil by petroleum ether extraction. The reactor's functionality was tested in the conditions reported by Gutiérrez et al., for DDB sulphonation. The falling film reactor analysis techniques applied to sulphonated DDB in the scale bank reactor were thus validated in Universidad Nacional de Colombia's Chemical Engineering Department Laboratory with the involvement of the Química Básica Colombiana Company (LIQ, Caloto, Cauca, Colombia). The influence of different process variables on the sulphonation of a mixture of methyl esters was then evaluated. The results obtained in the sulphonator were adjusted to empirical equations using multiple linear regression; these expressions showed the direct effect on sulphonation of variables such as SO3/ME molar ratio, SO3 concentration in gas flow and ME mass flow.
Web text corpus extraction system for linguistic tasks
Authors: Cadavid Rengifo Héctor Fabio , Gómez Perdomo Jonatan
Published: August 2022

Internet content, used as text corpus for natural language learning, offers important characteristics for such task, like its huge volume, being permanently up-to-date with linguistic variants and having low time and resource costs regarding the traditional way that text is built for natural language machine learning tasks. This paper describes a system for the automatic extraction of large bodies of text from the Internet as a valuable tool for such learning tasks. A concurrent programming-based, hardware-use optimisation strategy significantly improving extraction performance is also presented. The strategies incorporated into the system for maximising hardware resource exploitation, thereby reducing extraction time are presented, as are extendibility (supporting digital-content formats) and adaptability (regarding how the system cleanses content for obtaining pure natural language samples). The experimental results obtained after processing one of the biggest Spanish domains on the internet, are presented (i.e. es.wikipedia.org). Such results are used for presenting initial conclusions about the validity and applicability of corpus directly extracted from Internet as morphological or syntactical learning input.
A study of surfaces using a scanning tunneling microscope (STM)
Authors: Ávila Bernal Alba Graciela , Bonilla Osorio Ruy Sebastián
Published: August 2022

Sweeping/scanning microscopes have become an experimental scientist's hands and eyes in this century; they have become a powerful and necessary tool for nanoscale characterisation in education and research laboratories all around the world. This article presents the modifications made in the mechanical (isolation or designing an antivibration system) and electrical (piezoelectric and scanning system characterisation) implementation of a scanning tunnelling microscope (STM), thereby allowing nanoscale surfaces to be visualised and modified. A methodology for visualising and characterising surfaces using the aforementioned instrument is described, bidimensional quantification of up to 1,300 nm2, with ~15 nm resolution being reached. This experimental methodology took critical parameters for tunnelling current stability into account, such as scanning speed and microscope tip geometry and dimensions. This microscope's versatility allowed defects in highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) samples to be modified and visualised by applying a voltage between the tip and the sample. The concepts of topography scanning and lithography can be easily understood by using the instrument implemented here.
O uso de Objetos Digitais de Ensino e Aprendizagem Potencialmente Significativos para estimular a criatividade em Ciências Exatas
Authors: Neuenfeldt Adriano Edo , Schuck Rogério José , Rodrigues Ariane Wollenhoupt da Luz , Miorando Tânia Micheline , Neuenfeldt Derli Juliano
Published: September 2022

Este artigo é um recorte de uma tese de doutorado, que envolveu 434 estudantes de 14 turmas que cursaram as disciplinas de Ciências Exatas de uma Instituição de Ensino Superior do sul do Brasil. Objetivou investigar a produção de vídeos como Objetos Digitais de Ensino e de Aprendizagem Potencialmente Significativos (ODEAPSs), buscando intensificar as percepções quanto aos processos de ensino e de aprendizagem de matemática no Ensino Superior. Especificamente, neste trabalho se apresentam algumas ações desenvolvidas com uma turma de 37 estudantes, cursando uma disciplina da área das Ciências Exatas, vinculada aos cursos de Engenharia e Arquitetura. A proposta também teve como objetivo explorar estratégias de ensino para desenvolver conteúdos de forma interativa e significativa para/com os estudantes, aproximando teoria e prática a partir da criatividade. Foi um estudo qualitativo com aproximações na pesquisa-ação, em que se explorou referenciais que contemplassem criatividade, estratégias de ensino, incluindo o uso do portfólio, e aprendizagem significativa. A partir do material coletado, foi possível constatar que o desvelamento de estratégias de ensino que estimulem a criatividade depende de uma articulação de atividades que propiciem a integração dos estudantes, mediante o trabalho em equipe e a autonomia. Desse modo, é possível contribuir para uma aprendizagem dos conteúdos de forma potencialmente significativa.
Palavras-chave: Ensino; aprendizagem; criatividade; estratégias de ensino; ciências exatas.
Evaluation of repeated sprint test protocols used in soccer with a global positioning system
Authors: Kaya Kaan , Gürol Barış
Published: August 2022

Background and Study Aim. The aim of the research is to evaluate the 7x34.2 m Repeated Straight Sprint Test (RSST) and 7x34.2 m Repeated Change of Direction Sprint Test (RCST), which are used for improvement, measurement, and evaluation of repeated sprint ability, by using Global Positioning System (GPS).

Material and Methods. Twenty-two professional soccer players participated in the research voluntarily. Internal and external load data were examined comparatively by using data as before and after the repeated sprint tests. External load data measured by 10 Hz GPS.

Results. When the findings of the research are examined, it is seen that values of blood lactate concentrations which are taken after three and five minutes of the RCST are significantly higher than RSST protocol (p < 0.001***, p = 0.042*, respectively). In the study, the value of lactate which is taken five minutes after the RSST was measured as 9.60 ± 2.65 mM, while the value which is taken three minutes after RCST was measured as 9.75 ± 2.51 mM. Nevertheless, whereas there was a difference between the two tests in terms of lactate values, no significant difference was found in terms of perceived exertion.

Conclusions. As a conclusion, according to the analyzes made after the RCST and RSST, we can say that the internal and external load performances of the athletes were very different. It has been observed that coaches, athletes, and practitioners can use two different test protocols for different objectives according to the purposes they set.
Effect of Physical Exertion on the effect of physical exertion on the concentration of copper and blood pressure in athletesn the Concentration of Copper and Blood Pressure in Athletes
Authors: Shalaby Mohammed N. , Sakoury Mona M.A. , Akl Haitham F.M. , Hassan Rasha H.A. , Ababtain Hana A.S. , Alghamdi Ahmad
Published: August 2022

Background and Study Aim. Several mineral elements are necessary for the athlete's body, which significantly impact the development of sports achievements because of their active role in bringing internal balance to the athlete's body. The study aims to determine the concentration of copper in the blood before and after the implementation of physical exertion at a level of 180 pulse/min on middle-distance runners.

Material and Methods. Twelve athletes who are team members at Egyptian clubs were chosen deliberately as a research sample. The study participants were at the end of their special preparation. The experiment was conducted between July 12, 2021, and July 14, 2021, on the research sample, resting after exerting physical effort by running on a treadmill at a speed of 10 km / h. The runner continued at this speed for 3 minutes, after which the device's speed increased by 2 km / h every minute until reaching a heart rate of 180 pulse/ min.

Results. The mineral differences in the copper element are attributed to the immediate induced by physical exertion by increasing the copper element in the blood within the normal level. This causes many changes and responses within the body cells. The copper element plays a significant role in oxidation and reduction processes via enzymes that require the copper element to produce energy in the cells and tissues due to the body's exposure to physical exertion. Athletes' exposure to physical exertion causes copper-dependent enzymes to produce energy in cells and tissues due to the element's requirement.

Conclusions. Copper affected the physical effort of middle-distance runners at a heart rate of 180 pulse/min. In addition,  Middle-distance runners' blood pressure (systolic and diastolic) was affected by the physical exertion at a heart rate of 180 rpm.
Angiopoietin-like 4 knockdown attenuates cigarette smoke extract–induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in lung bronchial epithelial cells by inhibiting NADPH oxidase
Authors: Liu Hong , Wang Xiao-xia , Chen Peng
Published: September 2022

It has been found that angiopoietin-like 4 (ANGPTL4) expression is increased in the serum of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Herein, cigarette smoke extract (CSE) was used to stimulate oxidative stress in bronchial epithelial cells BEAS-2B, and the role and potential mechanism of ANGPTL4 in smoking-induced lung dysfunction were explored. The roles of different concentrations of CSE (0, 1, 2.5, 5, or 10%) in cell viability and ANGPTL4 levels were evaluated. Following ANGPTL4 being knocked down, the effects of ANGPTL4 knockdown on oxidative stress and apoptosis were determined. Moreover, the level of NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2) was upregulated to assess the mediated role of NOX in the regulation of ANGPTL4, along with JNK/p38 MAPK signaling. CSE treatment elevated the level of ANGPTL4, and ANGPTL4 knockdown reduced CSE-induced oxidative stress, apoptosis, and NOX level in BEAS-2B cells. The greatest degree of alteration was found in NOX2, and additional NOX2 overexpression broke the inhibitory influences of ANGPTL4 knockdown on oxidative stress and apoptosis. Otherwise, ANGPTL4 knockdown hindered the activation of JNK/p38 MAPK signaling, whereas NOX2 overexpression activated this signaling pathway. Together, ANGPTL4 knockdown attenuated CSE-induced oxidative stress, apoptosis, and activation of JNK/MAPK signaling by inhibiting NOX.
CRYAB reduces cigarette smoke-induced inflammation, apoptosis, and oxidative stress by retarding PI3K/Akt and NF-κB signaling pathways in human bronchial epithelial cells
Authors: Xie Shiliang , Wang Xiaofeng
Published: September 2022

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a familiar airway disease characterized by chronic immune response in the lungs. More and more evidences have assured that cigarette smoking is the primary reason for the progression of COPD, but its related regulatory mechanism requires further clarification. The α-B-crystallin (CRYAB) has been identified to exhibit vital functions in different diseases, and is down-regulated in the alveoli of mice mediated by cigarette smoke extract (CSE).
Methods: The messenger RNA expression of CRYAB was assessed by reverse transcription--quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The proteins’ expressions were tested using Western blot method. The cytotoxicity was measured by lactate dehydrogenase assay. The levels of malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, catalase, myeloperoxidase, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6 were assessed through enzyme-linked-immunosorbent serologic assay (ELISA).
Results: In this study, it was discovered that the expression of CRYAB was markedly decreased with the increased time of cigarette smoking. Moreover, CRYAB overexpression increased cell viability and decreased cell apoptosis induced by cigarette smoke. In addition, the strengthened oxidative stress and inflammation mediated by CSE treatment was relieved after overexpression of CRYAB. Eventually, results OF Western blot method confirmed that CRYAB retarded the activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase–Ak strain transforming (PI3K–Akt) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathways.
Conclusion: Our results manifested that CRYAB reduced cigarette smoke-induced inflammation, apoptosis, and oxidative stress in normal and diseased bronchial epithelial (NHBE) and human bronchial epithelial (BEAS-2B) cells by suppressing PI3K/Akt and NF-κB signaling pathways, which highlighted the functioning of CRYAB in preventing or treating COPD.
Crocin ameliorates peritoneal fibrosis in rat induced by peritoneal dialysis via Wnt5a/β-Catenin pathway
Authors: Lu Jingyuan , Shi Danye , Zhao Xinhui , Xi Minhui , Qi Hualin , He Qiang
Published: September 2022

Peritoneal dialysis is used in the treatment of patients with kidney diseases. Long-term peritoneal dialysis could result in peritoneal fibrosis and recurrent peritonitis, thus leading to failure of ultrafiltration. Crocin is a bioactive carotenoid and isolated from stigma of Crocus sativus, and ameliorates pulmonary and myocardial fibrosis. The role of crocin in peritoneal fibrosis was assessed. Firstly, rats model with peritoneal dialysis was treated with 4.25% peritoneal dialysate. Results showed that injection with peritoneal dialysate induced obvious hyperplasia and increased thickness in peritoneum structure. Rats with peritoneal dialysis were injected with increasing concentrations of crocin at 10, 20, or 40 mg/kg. Crocin ameliorated the pathological changes in the peritoneum of peritoneal dialysate-induced rats. Secondly, crocin attenuated peritoneal dialysate-induced decrease of E-cadherin, increase of fibronectin, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and collagen I. Moreover, crocin enhanced ultrafiltration volume and reduced glucose transport in rats model with peritoneal dialysis. Thirdly, crocin also reduced levels of Interleukin (IL)-1β, Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF –α), and IL-6 in peritoneal tissues of rats model with peritoneal dialysis. Lastly, protein expression of Wnt5a and β-Catenin in rats model with peritoneal dialysis were also downregulated by crocin. In conclusion, crocin exerted anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects on rats model with peritoneal dialysis through inactivation of Wnt5a/β-Catenin pathway.
DEVELOPMENT OF INNOVATIVE PILE FOUNDATION DESIGNS ON SUBSIDENCE SOILS
Authors: Gabibov F. G
Published: September 2022

New technical solutions for the elimination of negative friction forces in the construction of pile foundations on subsidence soils are considered. The friction forces arising between the subsidence soil and the side surface of the pile, according to the Amonton-Coulomb law and the theoretical justifications of B.V. Deryagin, are presented as the sum of a term depending on adhesion and the product of the coefficient of friction by normal pressure. There is some function approximating the total friction force along the side surface of the pile. Differentiating this function, we obtain a formula that determines the change in soil pressure on the side surface of the pile, which varies with the depth of the pile location in the subsidence soil. To sharply reduce the forces of negative friction, the author has developed the design of a pile foundation made of asbestos cement pipes. Studies have shown that in these piles, the forces of negative friction are reduced by 20-30 %, compared with concrete piles manufactured in factory conditions. The author has developed two variants of the method of building a pile foundation on subsident soils, in which the role of antifriction lubricant is performed by a layer of humbrine. Humbrin is a waste of the technology of purification of technical oils. This waste accumulates in large quantities in the landfills of oil refineries. The author has proposed a new design of a pile foundation, in which recycled tires are used as an outer shell to remove the forces of negative friction. Experimental studies have shown that even with vertical deformations of the tire screen of more than 0.04 m, the amount of pile precipitation turned out to be negligible, only 0.02 mm. The author also developed a pile foundation erected on subsident soils. This pile foundation has an external cylindrical shell. In the gap between the cylindrical shell and the side surface of the pile there is a spiral-wound elastic rubber rolling harness. When the surrounding soil subsides, the outer cylindrical shell moves vertically down the rolling spiral bundle, removing negative friction from the side surface of the pile. In addition, the rolling spiral elastic harness also performs the function of a seismic isolator.
DETERMINATION OF TARGET FUNCTION FOR SUPPLY OF MATERIAL RESOURCES IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY CONSIDERING THE PHYSICAL CONDITIONS
Authors: ARUTIUNIAN I. A. , KOVALENKO M. G.
Published: September 2022

Purpose. Compilation of the formula of the objective function to determine the cost of transportation of material resources from supplier to consumer (construction site) taking into account the possibility of loss by material resources of their initial physical qualities, which increases the cost of transportation of material resources and the entire construction. Methodology. After analyzing the existing algorithms for determining the target function for the supply of material resources from supplier to consumer, it was concluded that existing algorithms do not take into account all the features of the construction industry, especially the possibility of loss by material resources of their physical characteristics. The need arises for a target function compilation that would make it possible to determine the cost of transportation of material resources with the possibility of repeated or partial supply of material resources. Findings. The results of this work are the analysis of schedules for the supply of material resources from supplier to consumer, taking into account the possibility of the schedule to go beyond the maximum and minimum time of transportation of material resources. There was a complex target function was compiled for the supply of material resources from supplier to consumer, with the possibility of taking into account the re-supply of material resources, or partial re-supply. Scientific originality. This algorithm for determining the target function for the supply of material resources with the possibility of losing their physical qualities in the construction industry was developed for the first time. Practical value. This algorithm allows to determine the real target function of supply of material resources to the construction site with additional costs from the loss of material resources of their physical qualities.
THE MECHANISMS OF FORMATION OF FOAM GLASS STRUCTURE AS AN EFFECTIVE INSULATOR FOR ENCLOSING STRUCTURES IN ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN OF BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Authors: KRASNYUK A. V. , HROMOVA O. V. , SHCHERBAK A. S. , ZIBROV I. F.
Published: September 2022

Purpose. The article considers the processes of formation of foam glass as insulation, obtaining different types of glass by using different gas generators and modifying additives. Production processes and technological methods for obtaining foam glass products to increase the energy efficiency of buildings and structures in modern architectural design are considered. Methodology. Resource-saving technologies for the production of foam glass in industrial conditions, namely one-stage and two-stage methods of production of foam glass products have been studied. The most effective method of production of foam glass of optimum structure and low density is chosen. The optimal chemical compositions of glasses are determined, according to which the optimal structure and physical and mechanical properties of foam glass for industrial production are formed. Findings. The analysis of different types of gas generators is carried out, their advantages and disadvantages are investigated. It has been established that glass containing sulfur trioxide always gives the highest quality and most homogeneous foam glass, and since SO3 is the cheapest oxidant, its use is appropriate in the production of foam glass. It is established that the higher the fineness of grinding and the purer the carbon will be used, the less it will be needed, and the better will be the appearance of foam glass and lower density and thermophysical properties. Developed modified foam glass based on glass and fly ash has higher compressive strength and lower thermal conductivity compared to foam glass without the use of modifiers, at the same density, and can be recommended for implementation in production by two-stage technology. Originality. The development of research on the formation of the optimal structure, composition and improved physical and mechanical properties of foam glass, made with the use of structure modifiers in the form of fly ash and plasticizers by effervescent industrial technology. Practical value. The results of the work allow in industrial conditions to obtain foam glass of optimal structure, composition and with physical and mechanical properties that meet the energy efficiency requirements of modern buildings and structures. As a result of the conducted researches products from the modified foam glass with the following characteristics were developed: density – 160 … 220 kg/m3; thermal conductivity – 0.055 … 0.074 W/(mK); water absorption – 1.95 … 2.43 % (volume); compressive strength – 1.5 … 2.1 MPa.
EFFICIENT USE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES TO AUTOMATE THE TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE TECHNICAL DOCUMENTATION PREPARATION
Authors: SKOVRON I. , DEMCHENKO Ye. , DOROSH A. , MALASHKIN V.
Published: September 2022

Purpose. The article purpose is to analyze and solve the problem of intensification and automation of the graphic part preparing process of the transport infrastructure technical documentation for enterprises and structural divisions of rail and road transport. Methodology. It is important for solving the problem to single out from the numerous factors that affect on the drawing creation duration, those critical operations that take a significant amount of time, and wherein are performed mainly manually. It allows to intensify these operations by replacing the maximum number of manual routine actions with their automated execution. When creating a graphical part of technical documentation for transport objects, such a critical operation is usually the actual process of preparing a number of drawings that require the construction of a large number of graphic elements that can be automated using basic knowledge of the MS Excel, the Autodesk AutoCAD design system, and the MS Word. Results. To illustrate the effectiveness of the intensification and automation of the technical documentation graphic part preparing process, statistical processing of expert estimates of the construction duration of the railway track longitudinal profile with a different number of elements and control points, which should be taken into account when drawing, was performed. Practical significance. Due to significant duration of some drawings creation the use of the described software package allows significantly speed up not only the process of preparing the graphic part of the technical documentation of the transport infrastructure, but also the process of creating an explanatory note.
Sofrimento psíquico na totalidade capitalista: experiências de mulheres
Authors: Alves Tahiana
Published: August 2022

Foram analisadas experiências de mulheres com o próprio sofrimento psíquico a partir de entrevistas com dez usuárias de um serviço de saúde mental. A análise foi fundamentada no método de Marx e na Teoria da Reprodução Social. O sofrimento psíquico foi atribuído a conflitos na família; à vida amorosa; à pobreza e seus desdobramentos; à regulação do corpo feminino; às múltiplas violências sofridas.
Emphysematous cystitis in an elderly female patient after surgery
Authors: Domeneghini Guilherme Luiz , Nunes Luciana De Souza , Saracol Débora Nunes Mário , Bratkowski Priscila Rodrigues Garrido
Published: August 2022

Cistite enfisematosa é um diagnóstico diferencial de doença do trato urinário que se desenvolve pela presença de bactérias fermentadoras na bexiga urinária. O aparecimento da doença está relacionado com diversos fatores, dentre eles: sexo feminino, presença de diabetes mellitus descompensado ou histórico de bexiga neurogênica. Para que seja diagnosticada são necessários exames de imagem, usualmente a radiografia ou a tomografia computadorizada. O presente relato demonstra um caso de uma paciente feminina idosa, não-diabética e que havia recentemente realizado procedimento cirúrgico.
Pensar las clases medias desde América Latina: una actualización de viejos debates
Authors: Díaz Isabel
Published: September 2022

Las aproximaciones a las clases medias que han primado en el pensamiento latinoamericano y organizan el debate académico actual conforman el núcleo analítico de este artículo. Se otorga especial interés a la estratificación y la movilidad social y política en cuanto ejes de la reflexión contemporánea, así como al imperativo de superar los mitos que suelen tejerse a raíz del uso desenfrenado de este concepto. Luego del optimismo característico de las dos primeras décadas del siglo XXI, despuntan interrogantes en torno a la vulnerabilidad de los sectores medios en la región. A fin de sistematizar tales controversias, en este trabajo se ofrece una revisión de la literatura especializada sobre las clases medias latinoamericanas. De ello se desprende la centralidad que ha ocupado la relación entre dichas clases y el Estado en el devenir histórico de ambos en América Latina. Además, se problematizan ciertos mitos que guían el debate público sobre los procesos de politización de estos sectores: ni “florindos” ni “ciudadanos de bien”. Finalmente, se marcan coordenadas para una agenda de investigación sobre las clases medias en tiempos de crisis, colocando a la incertidumbre laboral en la primera línea de la discusión académica.