bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the Technological Properties of High Temperature Fired Clayey Ceramics Incorporated with Glass Waste
Authors: Sardinha Cordeiro Morais Alline , Mardegan Louzada Thais , Candido Veronica Scarpini , Monteiro Sergio Neves , Vieira Carlos Mauricio Fontes
Published: June 2015

The incorporation of industrial wastes into clayey ceramics used in civil construction is becoming a worldwide procedure not only to provide an environmentally correct destination for the waste but, in some cases, to improve the ceramic properties. The objective of the present work was to evaluate the effect of incorporation of a glass powder waste from decontamination process of fluorescent lamps into clayey ceramics. This evaluation was performed based on the technological properties of water absorption, linear shrinkage ad flexural strength. The properties evaluation was complemented by optical microscopy structural observation. The glass waste was incorporated in up to 30 wt% and specimens were uniaxially pressed at 20 MPa and fired at a relatively higher temperature of 1000°C. The results confirmed a substantial improvement of both the water absorption and the strength with glass waste incorporation into clayey ceramics.
Microstructural Analysis of Clayey Ceramics Incorporated with Fluorescent Lamp Glass Waste
Authors: Mardegan Louzada Thais , Morais Alline Sardinha Cordeiro , Vieira Carlos Mauricio Fontes , Candido Veronica Scarpini , Monteiro Sergio Neves
Published: June 2015

The recycling of industrial wastes has become a worldwide practice owing to environmental and economical advantages. In the case of waste addition to clayey ceramics for civil construction, this sustainable practice may also bring technical benefits. Fluorescent lamps, today replacing incandescent lamps, generate typical glass waste that can improve the properties of clayey ceramics. The fluxing behavior of the glass waste contributes to the ceramic sintering mechanisms by reducing the porosity. In the present work, the effect of incorporation of 30 wt% of Hg-cleaned fluorescent lamps glass waste was investigated by means of microstructural analysis. Waste incorporated clayey ceramics, fired at 850 and 1100°C were analyzed by optical and scanning electron microscopy as well as by X-ray diffraction. The results revealed the microstructural mechanism responsible for the improvement of the ceramic properties.
Study of the Characterization of Smectitic Clays from a Town in the State of Paraíba
Authors: Silva I.A. , Pereira I.D.S. , Cavalcanti W.S. , Sousa F.K.A. , Neves Gelmires Araújo , Ferreira Heber Carlos
Published: June 2015

The State of Paraíba has gained prominence in the production of raw bentonite in Brazil, where a new deposit has been found in the town of Sossego-PB, besides the deposit in the town of Boa Vista-PB. With the raise in the demand, the traditional reserves are depleting after several years of exploration, and this fact may result in a higher dependence on imported clays, thus existing a great interest in the discovery and characterization of new deposits, also guaranteeing technological improvements for the region. So, the objective of this work is to characterize the new deposits of the State of Paraíba, aiming at analyzing the characteristics the prove their classification as smectitic clays. The characterization was made through the analysis of chemical composition by X-ray fluorescence (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis and thermal differential analyses (TG and DTA), cation-exchange capacity (CEC) and specific area (SA). The results prove that the studied samples presented, in their mineralogical composition, smectite, kaolinite and quartz, besides thermal and chemical behavior typical smectitic clays.
Modeling of Two-Dimensional Orthotropic Heat Conduction in Porous Gypsum
Authors: Souza Carlos R.N. , Alencar José P. , Dantas Alan Christie Silva , Ferraz Andrea V. , Olivier Nelson C.
Published: June 2015

The gypsum is a versatile material that shows low thermal conductivity, which makes this material very suitable for application as thermal insulation. The increase of the porosity of gypsum bodies promotes a decrease on the thermal conductivity. This effect optimize the range of applications of gypsum on the thermal insulate field. The present study aimed the numerical modeling of two-dimensional heat conduction by finite differences in a steady state to evaluate the ortotrophy of the thermal conductivity of porous gypsum using the elements of the protected hot plate method. Computer simulations were performed using thermal conductivity of the gypsum equal to 0.35 W/m.K. This value was varied on the x and y directions by 5%, 10% and 15%. The heat flow applied to the numerical simulations were equal 75 W/m2, 100 W/m2 to 125 W/m2.It was possible to produce temperature profiles where is visible the displacement of isotherms as a function of the change in thermal conductivity in the x direction.
Sodium Ions Uptake by Hydroxyapatite from Bovine Bone
Authors: Domínguez Liliam , Patiño Sindry , Ribeiro Alexandre Antunes , de Oliveira Marize Varella , Monteiro Magna
Published: June 2015

The negative impact of soil salinity on agricultural yields is disturbing and significant, especially when related to agricultural plants, whose sensitivity to salinity is frequently, but not exclusively, associated with the abundance of Na+ in the soil, which in excess becomes toxic for plants. This work aims to propose an alternative for the control of Na+ present in waters from saline soils, by the possibility of applying bovine hydroxyapatite as a way to remedy this problematic. Hydroxyapatite powders were processed from bovine bone. The powders were characterized by X-ray diffraction analyses. Preliminary experiments were performed in batches at room temperature, adding together 5g hydroxyapatite and a dilute solution of sodium chloride. Liquid samples were analyzed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The results showed that the hydroxyapatite could be a promising alternative for the reduction of Na+ concentration in waters from saline soils.
Results of the Leaching, Water Absorption and Mold Release for Concrete Blocks with the Addition of the Concentration Tailings of Iron Ore
Authors: da Silva Fabiane Leocádia , da Silva Araújo Fernando Gabriel , Gonçalves Castro Camila , von Krüger Fernando Leopoldo
Published: June 2015

Tailings from the concentration of iron ore can be substituted in part for the production of concrete blocks due to the ability of encapsulation or enveloping the concrete. Many tests were conducted to recycle Concentration Tailings of Iron Ore for the Production of Concrete Block, replacing the silica sand. The Concentration Tailings of Iron Ore showed to be viable materials for the replacement of coarse and fine aggregate concrete blocks (pavers), with regard to mechanical strength after 28 days cure. Specifically, the simple substitution of hail for coarse tailings concentration of iron ore has the potential to increase the compression resistance of the concrete blocks. It was also verified that the addition of fine tailings with magnetic concentration may complicate demolding.The water absorption of the concrete block was obtained in accordance with the standards, and some blocks were within the required standards. And through the leaching test was observed that the addition of the tailings concrete blocks poses no risk to the environment when exposed to weather.
Feasibility of Using Clay Ceramic Residue in Substitution of Washed Sand for Concrete Manufacturing
Authors: Godinho Ornelas Matheus , Almeida Souza Thais Loesch , Medeiros Rocha Arthur , Cabral Stenio Cavalier , Skury Ana Lúcia Diegues , Monteiro Sergio Neves
Published: June 2015

Residue materials accumulated in the working yards of building construction in Brazil are commonly discarded into landfill areas, which represents a non-sustainable procedure. To revert this situation, a possible remediation could be the selection of these residues to be recycled as useful materials in the same building construction. In the present work, clay ceramic wastes, such as broken bricks and tiles, obtained as civil construction residues, were used in substitution of washed sand currently applied in concrete fabrication. It was found that a 30% substitution presented, within the standard deviation, a smaller strength to the concrete with comparable trace of sand, but still complying with the norm.
Evaluation of Technological Properties of Ceramic Bodies Made of Kaolinite Clay and Steatite
Authors: Torres Harlley Sander Silva , Varajão Angélica Fortes Drummond Chicarino , Sabioni Antônio Claret Soares
Published: June 2015

Ceramic bodies composed of steatite residues from workshops from the region of Ouro Preto (MG-Brazil) and 15, 20 and 25% of kaolinite clay were fired at 1000 and 1200 °C for 2hrs in air to evaluate their technological properties. Essays of flexural strength and water absorption showed that ceramic bodies have a performance for their use as commercial bricks with values in accordance to those defined by the Brazilian standards. The mixture material, raw and fired, was analyzed using X-ray diffraction, ICP/OES and SEM. After fired, the samples showed a more compact surface and an advanced sintering process. Talc and kaolinite are the dominant minerals in raw ceramics. After being fired, talc changes to enstatite and at 1200°C, mullite, periclase and cordierite appear. These minerals affect the physical properties of the ceramic bodies such as reduction of the porosity, increase of the sintering process and consequently, increased flexural strength. The results show that mixtures kaolinite clay and steatite have potential for application in ceramic industry which can also contribute to reducing the environmental impact of industrial waste from steatite.
Characterization, Modification and Rheology of Green Clay
Authors: da Rocha-Gomes Leila Verônica , Santana Antônio José , Matos Camila Martini , Justo Valquíria de Fátima , Silva-Valenzuela Maria Das Graças , Valenzuela-Diaz Francisco Rolando
Published: June 2015

Smectite clays or bentonites are used in several industrial applications. The aim of this study was to describe the characterization and organophilization of a green clay sample coming from the State of Paraíba, Brazil. The clay was characterized by XRD, XRF, CEC, SEM, stereoscopic microscopy, Fann viscosity (before and after the organophilization process), swelling capacity in water and some organic solvents. Prismatic specimens were conformed by pressing, for which were conformed the mechanical sthegth after drying at 110°C and after burning at 950°C. The burned specimens were analyzed to evaluate dimensional variations, water absorption, apparent porosity and apparent density. XRD showed that the sample was constituted mainly for montmorillonite claymineral. Analysis of rheological properties of the modified clay indicates its potential to meet the specifications of the standard N-2604 of Petrobras, concerning clays used to oil drilling.
Ceramic Membrane Made of Alumina Synthesized by Pechini Method for Application in Microfiltration Processes
Authors: da Silva Mirele Costa , da Silva Francisco Nilson , Lira Hélio de Lucena , de Freitas Normanda Lino
Published: June 2015

Given the diversity of areas in which applications of ceramic membranes are included, the literature has shown great interest of researchers to obtain these materials with powders synthesized by different chemical methods. Thus, this work aims at the synthesis of alumina by Pechini method, the 2:1 ratio of citric acid: metal cations, calcined to 1100°C, to obtain membranes. The synthesized powders were characterized by thermal analysis, XRD and particle size distribution, since the membranes were characterized by SEM and mercury porosimetry. The results for the obtained powders showed total mass loss of 61.60%, an alpha-alumina phase with crystallite size of 45.2 nm. As for the membranes, these showed heterogeneously distributed particles with different sizes and irregular geometry, reaching average pore diameter of 0.6 μm me 47% porosity, and thus are characterized for application in microfiltration processes.
Production of Mullite from Bentonite Clays and Alumina Residue
Authors: da Silva Valmir José , de Araújo Neves Gelmires , Gonçalves Wherllyson Patrício , Gomes Josileido , Menezes Romualdo Rodrigues , Lira Hélio de Lucena , de Lima Santana Lisiane Navarro
Published: June 2015

Among the ceramic raw materials, mullite is highlighted for presenting features which are of great interest for industry. However, the process through which this material is obtained requires pure reagents, raising the production costs. Therefore, this work is intended to obtain mullite from bentonite clays (source of silicon and aluminum oxides) and alumina residue, resulting from the Bayer process, thus becoming an interesting process from the economic and environmental standpoint. For this purpose, we made use of the thermal treatment in conventional furnace, temperature of 1500°C, heating rate of 5°C/min and dwell time of 60 min at maximum temperature. The synthesized samples were characterized by X-ray fluorescence (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled to an EDS, besides the quantification of the phases present in the samples. The results revealed that mullite was the major phase produced, but corundum appeared as secondary phase.
Aeromonas spp.: an emerging pathogen?
Authors: Bartolini Andrea , Zorzi Giulia , Castellani Elena , Besutti Valeria
Published: June 2015

The aim of this study is to identify and monitor the presence of Aeromonas spp. strains in stool cultures. We analyzed 5564 stool cultures from September 2012 to August 2013. Sixty-three patients were positive for Aeromonas spp. The most frequent symptoms were: diarrhea (46.0%) and abdominal pain (12.7%). Pediatric subjects were 28. Samples’ microscopic examination showed leukocytes in 38.1% of cases. It is still controversial whether Aeromonas are responsible for human gastroenteritis, but their presence in faecies of symptomatic patients supports their etiologic role. We propose search for toxins by polymerase chain reaction to identify strains that require an antibiotic therapy.
Epidemiology of cytomegalovirus infection in pregnant women living in the Greater Romagna Area, Italy
Authors: Billi Patrizia , Della Strada Mara , Semprini Simona , Sambri Vittorio
Published: June 2015

Background. Aim of this study was to assess the incidence of Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in pregnant women living in Romagna area, in North East Italy to implement the best management of this infection.
Materials and Methods. In 2012, 23,727 serological tests for CMV IgG and IgM antibodies were performed in the Microbiology Unit, the Hub Laboratory of the Greater Romagna Area: 6931 were pregnant women.
Results and Conclusions. 179 subjects were positive for CMV IgM antibodies: 82 were not pregnant; 97 were IgM positive during pregnancy or in the course of a pre-conception evaluation. The detected incidence of the CMV infection in pregnancy (calculated at 1.40%) actually validates the literature data. This study’s findings clearly underline the usefulness of testing the CMV specific immune response in the pre-conception period or as early as possible during pregnancy.
Large Mid-Esophageal Granular Cell Tumor: Benign Versus Malignant
Authors: Christopher Prarthana Roselil , Kingsley Pamela Alice , Singh Bedi Harinder , Singh Kwatra Kanwardeep , Rathore Shubra , Das Kanhu Charan
Published: June 2015

Granular cell tumors are rare soft tissue neoplasms, among which only 2% are malignant, arising from nervous tissue. Here we present a case of a large esophageal granular cell tumor with benign histopathological features which metastasized to the liver, but showing on positron emission tomography-computerized tomography standardized uptake value suggestive of a benign lesion.
Exploring the impact of wheelchair design on user function in a rural South African setting
Authors: Visagie Surona , Duffield Svenje , Unger Mariaan
Published: June 2015

Background: Wheelchairs provide mobility that can enhance function and community integration. Function in a wheelchair is influenced by wheelchair design.Objectives: To explore the impact of wheelchair design on user function and the variables that guided wheelchair prescription in the study setting.Method: A mixed-method, descriptive design using convenience sampling was implemented. Quantitative data were collected from 30 wheelchair users using the functioning every day with a Wheelchair Scale and a Wheelchair Specification Checklist. Qualitative data were collected from ten therapists who prescribed wheelchairs to these users, through interviews. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to identify relationships, and content analysis was undertaken to identify emerging themes in qualitative data.Results: Wheelchairs with urban designs were issued to 25 (83%) participants. Wheelchair size, fit, support and functional features created challenges concerning transport, operating the wheelchair, performing personal tasks, and indoor and outdoor mobility. Users using wheelchairs designed for use in semi-rural environments achieved significantly better scores regarding the appropriateness of the prescribed wheelchair than those using wheelchairs designed for urban use (p = 0.01). Therapists prescribed the basic, four-wheel folding frame design most often because of a lack of funding, lack of assessment, lack of skills and user choice.Conclusion: Issuing urban type wheelchairs to users living in rural settings might have a negative effect on users’ functional outcomes. Comprehensive assessments, further training and research, on long term cost and quality of life implications, regarding provision of a suitable wheelchair versus a cheaper less suitable option is recommended.
African therapy for a fractured world(view): The life of founder bishop Johannes Richmond and the invention of tradition and group cohesion in an African Initiated Church
Authors: Wepener Cas
Published: June 2015

In the book The invention of tradition historian Eric Hobsbawm claims that the process of the invention of tradition serves the formation of group cohesion. The different versions of the life story of the founder bishop of the Corinthian Church of South Africa (AIC), as documented during many years of conducting qualitative field work in this church, are used in this article as a case study in this regard. The article unpacks the way in which the invention of tradition as a process is in this particular AIC currently a work in progress contributing to the formation of a particular type of group cohesion that stretches over racial, religious and denominational boundaries especially by means of the unique liturgical rituals that were influenced by the life story of the founder. The group cohesion that this process fosters is in essence aimed at healing in all its multifaceted dimensions, which includes healing from physical ailments, ‘healing’ from barrenness, healing from spirit possession to healing as (re-)incorporation of an individual into the larger group, the healing of a nation as well as healing from a dualistic spirit-matter worldview.
Theology in the flesh – a model for theological anthropology as embodied sensing
Authors: Meiring Jacob
Published: June 2015

The author proposes a model for theological anthropology as embodied sensing that is based on an interdisciplinary exploration of the corporeal turn from a southern African perspective. The work of James B. Nelson is acknowledged, stating that body theology starts with the concrete, the bodily expressions of life and not with doctrines about God and humanity. The theological anthropology of David H. Kelsey is evaluated as a theological anthropology with a sentiment of the flesh. Based on clearings in the work of David Kelsey and an interdisciplinary research, the author proposes a model for theological anthropology as embodied sensing which functions within the intricate and complex connection of the living body, language and experiencing in a concrete lifeworld with an openness to the ‘more than’. The author considers the use of bodymapping within narrative therapy as a way in which to uncover the intimate and intricate connection between the living body, experience and language, and implementing insights from theological anthropology as embodied sensing.
The 2007 Dutch Reformed Church Synod Resolution: Impact on gay ministers
Authors: Van Loggerenberg Marietjie
Published: June 2015

At the 2007 General Synod of the Dutch Reformed Church (DRC), a compromise resolution was accepted regarding homosexual members. The resolution, inter alia, requires of gay ministers to remain celibate as a prerequisite to be legitimated. This research is a qualitative inquiry to evaluate the impact this resolution has on the lives of gay ministers and gay candidate ministers. Apart from doing a literature study Narrative and Post-foundational perspectives were obtained by interviewing six gay ministers and/or candidate ministers as co-researchers, and also by engaging in dialogue with interdisciplinary experts from Sociology, Psychology and Law. From the stories told by the gay ministers and/or gay candidate ministers, certain themes emerged, revealing the immense impact caused by the resolution.
Deur die wasmasjienvenster na binne en na buite
Authors: Swart Marius
Published: June 2015

No abstract available.
Auditing chronic disease care: Does it make a difference?
Authors: Essel Vivien , Van Vuuren Unita , De Sa Angela , Govender Srini , Murie Katie , Schlemmer Arina , Gunst Colette , Namane Mosedi , Boulle Andrew , De Vries Elma
Published: June 2015

Background: An integrated audit tool was developed for five chronic diseases, namely diabetes, hypertension, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and epilepsy. Annual audits have been done in the Western Cape Metro district since 2009. The year 2012 was the first year that all six districts in South Africa’s Western Cape Province participated in the audit process.Aim: To determine whether clinical audits improve chronic disease care in health districts over time.Setting: Western Cape Province, South Africa.Methods: Internal audits were conducted of primary healthcare facility processes and equipment availability as well as a folder review of 10 folders per chronic condition per facility. Random systematic sampling was used to select the 10 folders for the folder review. Combined data for all facilities gave a provincial overview and allowed for comparison between districts. Analysis was done comparing districts that have been participating in the audit process from 2009 to 2010 (‘2012 old’) to districts that started auditing recently (‘2012 new’).Results: The number of facilities audited has steadily increased from 29 in 2009 to 129 in 2012. Improvements between different years have been modest, and the overall provincial average seemed worse in 2012 compared to 2011. However, there was an improvement in the ‘2012 old’ districts compared to the ‘2012 new’ districts for both the facility audit and the folder review, including for eight clinical indicators, with ‘2012 new’ districts being less likely to record clinical processes (OR 0.25, 95% CI 0.21–0.31).Conclusion: These findings are an indication of the value of audits to improve care processes over the long term. It is hoped that this improvement will lead to improved patient outcomes.
What can speech production errors tell us about cross-linguistic processing in bilingual aphasia? Evidence from four English/Afrikaans bilingual individuals with aphasia
Authors: Kendall Diane , Edmonds Lisa , Van Zyl Anine , Odendaal Inge , Stein Molly , Van der Merwe Anita
Published: June 2015

Introduction: The aim of this study is contribute to clinical practice of bilinguals around the globe, as well as to add to our understanding of bilingual aphasia processing, by analysing confrontation naming data from four Afrikaans/English bilingual individuals with acquired aphasia due to a left hemisphere stroke.Methods: This is a case series analysis of four Afrikaans/English bilingual aphasic individuals following a left cerebrovascular accident. Error analysis of confrontation naming data in both languages was performed. Research questions were directed toward the between language differences in lexical retrieval abilities, types of errors produced and degree of cognate overlap.Results: Three of the four participants showed significantly higher naming accuracy in first acquired language (L1) relative to the second acquired language (L2) and the largest proportion of error type for those three participants in both L1 and L2 was omission. One of the four participants (linguistically balanced) showed no between language accuracy difference. Regarding cognate overlap, there was a trend for higher accuracy for higher cognate words (compared to low).Discussion: This study showed that naming performance in these four individuals was reflective of their relative language proficiency and use patterns prior to their stroke. These findings are consistent with the hierarchical model, in normal bilingual speakers and with persons with bilingual aphasia.
Neuro imaging
Authors: Misser Shalendra K. , Mngoma Thami Z.
Published: June 2015

No abstract available.
The applicability of centrographic analysis in pleasing craniofacial phenotypes
Authors: Reddy Munish C. , Gupta Shivangi , Misra Vaibhav , Raghav Pradeep , Singh Shishir
Published: June 2015

Context

There has always been a need for nonnumeric facial analyses that would not compare an individual’s facial measurements with the preestablished norms, rather evaluate the facial form individually. This would help in diagnosis and treatment planning, unique to that individual.

Aims

The purpose of the study was to determine and establish a relation between skeletal, dental and soft tissue structures using centrographic analysis (CGA) in pleasing faces of Western Uttar Pradesh population.

Materials and Methods

A total of 50 subjects (22 males and 28 females) with “most pleasing faces” were taken up for the study, within the age group of 20-25 years. Frontal facial photographs and lateral cephalograms were taken for all the subjects. Conventional cephalometric analysis and CGA were applied to each lateral cephalogram. Arithmetic mean and standard deviation values were calculated, and an independent t-test was performed for calculating cephalomorphic norms and comparison between the male and female sample.

Results

The results showed that, the adults in the age group of 20-25 years, belonging to the Western Uttar Pradesh population have protrusive maxillary and mandibular skeletal bases and retrusive upper lip on contrary to a protrusive lower lip, though a sexual dimorphism was observed. The upper centroid and lower centroid values were statistically greater in women (P = 0.05 and P = 0.04 respectively) whereas, upper lip linear value was statistically greater in men.

Conclusions

The CGA is valid for Western Uttar Pradesh population. The Western Uttar Pradesh adults have protrusive mandible and a retrusive upper lip though there exists a sexual dimorphism. These practical centrographic norms can be used as an adjunct to the conventional cephalometric evaluation of an individual for diagnosis and treatment planning.
Cartografía de combustible y potenciales de incendio en el Continente Africano utilizando FCCS
Authors: Pettinari M. L. , Chuvieco E.
Published: June 2015

Este trabajo presenta la metodología utilizada para el desarrollo de un mapa de combustibles para el Continente Africano, utilizando el Sistema FCCS (Fuel Characteristic Classification System). La cartografía de los perfiles de combustible se basó en el uso de información cartográfica global obtenida mediante teledetección, y las variables asociadas se extrajeron de bases de datos de vegetación existentes. Se generaron un total de 75 perfiles de combustible, y a partir de las variables asignadas a cada uno se calcularon distintos Potenciales de Incendio utilizando valores de variables ambientales estándar. Estos potenciales permiten estimar el comportamiento del fuego de superficies, el fuego de copas, y la cantidad de combustible disponible, en función de las características de la vegetación existente.
Seguimiento de los flujos de calor sensible y calor latente en vid mediante la aplicación del balance de energía METRIC
Authors: González-Piqueras J. , Villodre J. , Campos Rodríguez I. , Calera Belmonte A. , Balbontín Nesvara C.
Published: June 2015

En este trabajo se presenta el seguimiento de los flujos de energía en un cultivo de vid bajo riego, obtenidos a partir del modelo de balance de energía METRIC (Allen et al., 2007b). Este modelo resulta operativo al utilizar un método de calibración interna definido a partir de la selección de píxeles con valores extremos dentro de la escena. De esta manera se obtuvieron mapas de radiación neta (Rn), flujo de calor en suelo (G), calor sensible (H), calor latente (LE), evapotranspiración (ET) y coeficiente de cultivo (Kc). Estos valores fueron validados con registros obtenidos en el sitio, utilizando una torre de flujos turbulentos (covarianza de torbellinos). El RMSE fue 43 W m-2,33 W m-2, 55 W m-2 y 40 W m-2 en Rn, G, H y LE, los cuales en términos relativos representan un 8%, 29 %, 21% y 20% respectivamente. A escala diaria el RMSE para la ET fue de 0,58 mm día-1, con un valor de Kc máximo y estable de 0,42±0,08. Estos resultados permiten considerar que el método es adecuado y operativo para el seguimiento de la evapotranspiración y cálculo de las necesidades hídricas del viñedo evaluado.
Estudio del NDVI mediante análisis multiescalar y series temporales utilizando imágenes SPOT, durante el período 1998-2012 en el Uruguay
Authors: Ceroni M. , Achkar M. , Gazzano I. , Burgeño J.
Published: June 2015

Los índices de vegetación suponen una de las principales fuentes de información para el monitoreo y espacialización de la vegetación a distintas escalas, siendo el Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) uno de los más utilizados. Este trabajo pretende describir y analizar la tendencia del NDVI en los sistemas ambientales de Uruguay, como una variable síntesis del comportamiento del sistema ambiental. Se aplicó un análisis multiescalar (país, cuenca, sitios), mediante la utilización del análisis de series temporales, siendo las imágenes SPOT 4 y 5, a través del programa de Instrumento Vegetation (VGT) la fuente de información. Las series temporales analizadas mostraron un ajuste significativo del modelo de Autocorrelación Integrado de Medias Móviles (ARIMA), siguiendo una autocorrelación de orden 2, con nivel de integración de orden 1, ARIMA (211). Se observó una tendencia significativa a la baja del NDVI para el total de las unidades espaciales, siendo las unidades agrícolas (escala sitio) las que presentaron mayor tendencia a la baja. El desarrollo del estudio permitió construir una base de datos sin antecedentes en Uruguay y, a su vez, elaborar una metodología precisa y robusta para el análisis espacio-temporal del NDVI. Se demuestra que la teledetección es una herramienta útil para la mejorar de la gestión de los sistemas ambientales.
Obtención de línea de costa con precisión sub-píxel a partir de imágenes Landsat (TM, ETM+ y OLI)
Authors: Almonacid Caballer J.
Published: June 2015

En esta tesis se presenta y evalúa una metodología para la obtención automática de líneas de costa con precisión sub-píxel a partir de imágenes adquiridas por los sensores TM, ETM+ y OLI de los satélites Landsat 5, 7 y 8, respectivamente
Sulfur-containing particles emitted by concealed sulfide ore deposits: an unknown source of sulfur-containing particles in the atmosphere
Authors: Cao J. J. , Li Y. K. , Jiang T. , Hu G.
Published: June 2015

Abstract. Sources of sulfur dioxide, sulfates, and organic sulfur compounds, such as fossil fuels, volcanic eruptions, and animal feeding operations, have attracted considerable attention. In this study, we collected particles carried by geogas flows ascending through soil, geogas flows above the soil that had passed through the soil, and geogas flows ascending through deep faults of concealed sulfide ore deposits, and analysed them using transmission electron microscopy. Numerous crystalline and amorphous sulfur-containing particles or particle aggregations were found in the ascending geogas flows. In addition to S, the particles contained O, Ca, K, Mg, Fe, Na, Pb, Hg, Cu, Zn, As, Ti, Sr, Ba, Si, etc. Such particles are usually a few to several hundred nanometres in diameter with either regular or irregular morphology. The sulfur-containing particles originated from deep-seated weathering or faulting products of concealed sulfide ore deposits. The particles suspended in the ascending geogas flow migrated through faults from deep-seated sources to the atmosphere. This is a previously unknown source of the atmospheric particles. This paper reports, for the first time, the emission of sulfur-containing particles into the atmosphere from concealed sulfide ore deposits. The climatic and ecological influences of these sulfur-containing particles and particle aggregations should be assessed.
Growth response of temperate mountain grasslands to inter-annual variations in snow cover duration
Authors: Choler P.
Published: June 2015

Abstract. A remote sensing approach is used to examine the direct and indirect effects of snow cover duration and weather conditions on the growth response of mountain grasslands located above the tree line in the French Alps. Time-integrated Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVIint), used as a surrogate for aboveground primary productivity, and snow cover duration were derived from a 13-year long time series of the Moderate-resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS). A regional-scale meteorological forcing that accounted for topographical effects was provided by the SAFRAN–CROCUS–MEPRA model chain. A hierarchical path analysis was developed to analyze the multivariate causal relationships between forcing variables and proxies of primary productivity. Inter-annual variations in primary productivity were primarily governed by year-to-year variations in the length of the snow-free period and to a much lesser extent by temperature and precipitation during the growing season. A prolonged snow cover reduces the number and magnitude of frost events during the initial growth period but this has a negligible impact on NDVIint as compared to the strong negative effect of a delayed snow melting. The maximum NDVI slightly responded to increased summer precipitation and temperature but the impact on productivity was weak. The period spanning from peak standing biomass to the first snowfall accounted for two-thirds of NDVIint and this explained the high sensitivity of NDVIint to autumn temperature and autumn rainfall that control the timing of the first snowfall. The ability of mountain plants to maintain green tissues during the whole snow-free period along with the relatively low responsiveness of peak standing biomass to summer meteorological conditions led to the conclusion that the length of the snow-free period is the primary driver of the inter-annual variations in primary productivity of mountain grasslands.
Technical Note: Semi-automated effective width extraction from time-lapse RGB imagery of a remote, braided Greenlandic river
Authors: Gleason C. J. , Smith L. C. , Finnegan D. C. , LeWinter A. L. , Pitcher L. H , Chu V. W.
Published: June 2015

Abstract. River systems in remote environments are often challenging to monitor and understand where traditional gauging apparatus are difficult to install or where safety concerns prohibit field measurements. In such cases, remote sensing, especially terrestrial time-lapse imaging platforms, offer a means to better understand these fluvial systems. One such environment is found at the proglacial Isortoq River in southwestern Greenland, a river with a constantly shifting floodplain and remote Arctic location that make gauging and in situ measurements all but impossible. In order to derive relevant hydraulic parameters for this river, two true color (RGB) cameras were installed in July 2011, and these cameras collected over 10 000 half hourly time-lapse images of the river by September of 2012. Existing approaches for extracting hydraulic parameters from RGB imagery require manual or supervised classification of images into water and non-water areas, a task that was impractical for the volume of data in this study. As such, automated image filters were developed that removed images with environmental obstacles (e.g., shadows, sun glint, snow) from the processing stream. Further image filtering was accomplished via a novel automated histogram similarity filtering process. This similarity filtering allowed successful (mean accuracy 79.6 %) supervised classification of filtered images from training data collected from just 10 % of those images. Effective width, a hydraulic parameter highly correlated with discharge in braided rivers, was extracted from these classified images, producing a hydrograph proxy for the Isortoq River between 2011 and 2012. This hydrograph proxy shows agreement with historic flooding observed in other parts of Greenland in July 2012 and offers promise that the imaging platform and processing methodology presented here will be useful for future monitoring studies of remote rivers.
Modelling clustering of natural hazard phenomena and the effect on re/insurance loss perspectives
Authors: Khare S. , Bonazzi A. , Mitas C. , Jewson S.
Published: June 2015

Abstract. In this paper, we present a conceptual framework for modelling clustered natural hazards that makes use of historical event data as a starting point. We review a methodology for modelling clustered natural hazard processes called Poisson mixtures. This methodology is suited to the application we have in mind as it naturally models processes that yield cross-event correlation (unlike homogeneous Poisson models), has a high degree of tunability to the problem at hand and is analytically tractable. Using European windstorm data as an example, we provide evidence that the historical data show strong evidence of clustering. We then develop Poisson and Clustered simulation models for the data, demonstrating clearly the superiority of the Clustered model which we have implemented using the Poisson mixture approach. We then discuss the implications of including clustering in models of prices of catXL contracts, one of the most commonly used mechanisms for transferring risk between primary insurers and reinsurers. This paper provides a number of unique insights into the impact clustering has on modelled catXL contract prices. The simple modelling example in this paper provides a clear and insightful starting point for practitioners tackling more complex natural hazard risk problems.
Volcanic soils and landslides: a case study of the island of Ischia (southern Italy) and its relationship with other Campania events
Authors: Vingiani S. , Mele G. , De Mascellis R. , Terribile F. , Basile A.
Published: June 2015

Abstract. An integrated investigation was carried out on the volcanic soils involved in the landslide phenomena that occurred in 2006 at Mt. Vezzi on the island of Ischia (southern Italy). Chemical (soil pH, organic carbon content, exchangeable cations and cation exchange capacity, electrical conductivity, Na adsorption ratio and Al, Fe and Si forms), physical (particle and pore size distribution, pore structure), hydrological (soil water retention, saturated and unsaturated hydraulic conductivity), mineralogical and micromorphological analyses were carried out for three soil profiles selected in two of the main head scarps. The studied soils showed a substantial abrupt discontinuity in all the studied properties at the interface with a buried fine ash layer (namely, the 2C horizon), that was only marginally involved in the sliding surface of the landslide phenomena. When compared to the overlying horizons, 2C showed (i) fine grey ash that is almost pumice free, with the silt content increasing by 20 %; (ii) ks values 1 order of magnitude lower; (iii) a pore distribution concentrated into small (15–30 μm modal class) pores characterised by a very low percolation threshold (approximately 15–25 μm); (iv) the presence of expandable clay minerals; and (v) increasing Na content in the exchange complex. Most of these properties indicated that 2C was a lower permeability horizon compared to the overlying ones. Nevertheless, it was possible to assume this interface to be an impeding layer to vertical water fluxes only by the identification of a thin (6.5 mm) finely stratified ash layer, on top of 2C, and of the hydromorphic features (e.g. Fe / Mn concretions) within and on top of the layer. Although Mt. Vezzi's soil environment has many properties in common with those of other Campania debris-mudflows (e.g. high gradient, north-facing slope, similar forestry, and volcanic origin of the parent material), the results of this study suggest a more complex relationship between soil properties and landslides and emphasise the role of vertical discontinuities as noteworthy predisposing factors.
Snow and albedo climate change impacts across the United States Northern Great Plains
Authors: Fassnacht S. R. , Cherry M. L. , Venable N. B. H.
Published: June 2015

Abstract. In areas with a seasonal snowpack, a warmer climate would cause less snowfall, a shallower snowpack and a change in the timing of snowmelt. Trends in temperature, precipitation (total and as snow), days with precipitation and snow, and winter albedo were investigated over the 60 year period from 1951 to 2010 for 20 meteorological stations across the Northern Great Plains. This is an area where snow accumulation is shallow but persistent for most of the winter (November through March). The most consistent trends were minimum temperature and days with precipitation, which both increased at a majority of the stations. The modeled winter albedo decreased at more stations than where it increased. There were substantial spatial variability in the climate trends. For most variables, the period of record used influenced the magnitude and sign of the significant trends.
Some Recommendations of M&A Activity in Vietnam Today
Authors: Viet Phan Quan
Published: June 2015

After 7 years of joining the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Vietnam, the businesses of Vietnam now have been integrating into the world economy increasingly deeper, not only having opportunities but also facing challenges. The benefits are very significant but the impact and adverse effect of the global economic crisis on the businesses of Vietnam is not small. During the integration process as above, M&A activity is a tool to attract resource and expand business scale. In the economic recession, M&A activity is an effective way to help the businesses of Vietnam get out of the recession and recover development. This article introduces the problems of the core of M&A activity and also analyzes the results obtained in M&A activity in Vietnam over the years and the impact of M&A on the economy of Vietnam. On this basis, the author provides some basic solutions in M&A activity in Vietnam. 
Detection of Hydroxychloroquine Retinal Toxicity by Automated Perimetry in 60 Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients with Normal Fundoscopic Findings
Authors: Motarjemizadeh Qader , Aidenloo Naser Samadi , Abbaszadeh Mohammad
Published: June 2015

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is an antimalarial drug used extensively in treatment of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. Retinal toxicity is the most important side effects of this drug. Even after the drug is discontinued, retinal degeneration from HCQ can continue to progress. Consequently, multiple ophthalmic screening tests have been developed to detect early retinopathy. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the value of central 2-10 perimetry method in early detection of retinal toxicity. This prospective cross-sectional investigation was carried out on 60 rheumatoid arthritis patients, who had been receiving HCQ for at least 6 months and still were on their medication (HCQ intake) at the time of enrollment. An ophthalmologist examined participants using direct and indirect ophthalmoscopy. Visual field testing with automated perimetry technique (central 2-10 perimetry with red target) was performed on all included subjects twice in 6 months interval: The first one at the time of enrollment and the second one 6 months later. Males and females did not show any significant difference in terms of age, duration of therapy, daily and cumulative HCQ dose, anterior or posterior segment abnormalities, hypertension, body mass index, and best corrected visual acuity. Anterior segment was abnormal in 9 individuals including 3 subjects with macular pigmentary changes, 4 individuals with cataract and 2 cases with dry eyes. Moreover, 12 subjects had retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) in their posterior segments. After 6 months, depressive changes appeared in 12 subjects. Additionally, HCQ therapy worsened significantly the perimetric results of 5 (55.6%) patients with abnormal anterior segment. A same trend was observed in perimetric results of 6 (50.0%) subjects with abnormal posterior segments (P=0.009). The daily dose of HCQ (P=0.035) as well as the cumulative dose of hydroxychloroquine (P=0.021) displayed statistically significant associations with perimetric results. Central 2-10 perimetry is a useful method for early detection of HCQ retinal toxicity, but more comprehensive studies, with larger sample size, longer-term follow-up and more precise techniques are mandatory to confirm HCQ retinal toxicity.
Clinical Factors Influencing the Efficacy of Systemic Moxifloxacin in the Therapy of Patients With Generalized Aggressive Periodontitis: A Multilevel Analysis From a Clinical Trial
Authors: Ardila Carlos M. , Guzmán Isabel C.
Published: June 2015

BACKGROUND: It has been reported that clinical results of mechanical periodontal treatment could differ between subjects and among different sites of the tooth in the patient. The objective of this multilevel analysis is to investigate clinical factors at subject and sites of the tooth that influence variations in clinical attachment (CAL) increase and probing depth (PD) diminution of adjunctive moxifloxacin (MOX) at six months post-treatment in generalized aggressive periodontitis.

METHODS: This clinical trial included 40 patients randomly distributed to two therapy protocols: scaling and root planing alone or combined with MOX. Multilevel linear models for continuous variables were formulated to evaluate the clinical impact of the hierarchical configuration of periodontal data.

RESULTS: Six months following therapy, the divergences between both protocols were statistically significant in PD diminution and CAL increase, favouring the MOX therapy (p<0.001). Besides, the multilevel analysis revealed that adjunctive MOX at the subject level, non-molar and the interaction non-molar x MOX at the tooth level, interproximal sites and the interaction interproximal sites x MOX at the site level, were statistically significant factors in determining CAL increase and PD diminution.

CONCLUSIONS: The main cause of variability in CAL gain and PD reduction following adjunctive MOX was attributable to the tooth level. Adjunctive MOX and their interactions with non-molar and interproximal sites showed higher clinical benefits at the tooth and site levels which could be essential for PD reduction and CAL gain in generalized aggressive periodontitis subjects.