bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microbiological and faunal soil attributes of coffee cultivation under different management systems in Brazil
Authors: Lammel D. R. , Azevedo L. C. B. , Paula A. M. , Armas R. D. , Baretta D. , Cardoso E. J. B. N.
Published: November 2015

Abstract Brazil is the biggest coffee producer in the world and different plantation management systems have been applied to improve sustainability and soil quality. Little is known about the environmental effects of these different management systems, therefore, the goal of this study was to use soil biological parameters as indicators of changes. Soils from plantations in Southeastern Brazil with conventional (CC), organic (OC) and integrated management systems containing intercropping of Brachiaria decumbens (IB) or Arachis pintoi (IA) were sampled. Total organic carbon (TOC), microbial biomass carbon (MBC) and nitrogen (MBN), microbial activity (C-CO2), metabolic quotient (qCO2), the enzymes dehydrogenase, urease, acid phosphatase and arylsulphatase, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) colonization and number of spores and soil fauna were evaluated. The greatest difference between the management systems was seen in soil organic matter content. The largest quantity of TOC was found in the OC, and the smallest was found in IA. TOC content influenced soil biological parameters. The use of all combined attributes was necessary to distinguish the four systems. Each management presented distinct faunal structure, and the data obtained with the trap method was more reliable than the TSBF (Tropical Soils) method. A canonic correlation analysis showed that Isopoda was correlated with TOC and the most abundant order with OC. Isoptera was the most abundant faunal order in IA and correlated with MBC. Overall, OC had higher values for most of the biological measurements and higher populations of Oligochaeta and Isopoda, corroborating with the concept that the OC is a more sustainable system.
Effects of the organophosphorus pesticide Folisuper 600 (methyl parathion) on the heart function of bullfrog tadpoles, Lithobates catesbeianus (Shaw, 1802)
Authors: Costa M. J. , Ribeiro L. R. , Salla R. F. , Gamero F. U. , Alves L. M. L. M. , Silva-Zacarin E. C. M.
Published: November 2015

Abstract The aim of this work was to evaluate whether the heart function of bullfrog tadpoles (25 Gosner stage) is affected by their acute exposure (48 h) to a sub-lethal concentration (10 µg.L–1) of the active principle of the organophosphorus pesticide Folisuper 600R (methyl parathion - MP). Our results demonstrated that MP causes not only a reduction in tadpoles’ cardiac ventricular mass, resulting in a marked reduction in their cardiac twitch force, but also impairs their swimming performance, irrespective of increasing their heart rate. Together, these findings indicate that low and realistic concentration of MP have a negative impact on tadpoles’ performance, jeopardizing their survival.
Prevalence of Anxiety and Depression among Medical Students
Authors: Tabalipa Fábio de Oliveira , Souza Mariana Fuganti de , Pfützenreuter Gláucia , Lima Vinícius Carriero , Traebert Eliane , Traebert Jefferson
Published: November 2015

ABSTRACT Background Medical students are a vulnerable population to develop depression and anxiety disorders. Objective To estimate the prevalence and associated factors of anxiety and depression among medical students. Methods A cross-sectional study with a random sample (n = 346) of medical students at a Brazilian university was performed. The Beck Depression Anxiety Inventory was used to measure anxiety and depression levels. Crude and adjusted analyses were performed using Poisson regression. Results The prevalence of anxiety was 35.5% and depression was 32.8%. The prevalence of anxiety and depression was 14% higher and 16% higher among women (p = 0.025 and p = 0.006, respectively). Students whose parents were not physicians reported 23% higher prevalence of anxiety (p = 0.006), and those who had physician parents reported 29% higher prevalence of depression (p = 0.034). Those who always or often felt pushed by their parents showed 22% higher prevalence of anxiety (p =.006) and 19% higher depression (p = 0.016). Students who had concerns over the future had 15% higher prevalence of depression (p = 0.017). Conclusion The prevalence of anxiety and depressive symptoms was higher than the average found in the general population.
COMPENSAÇÃO AMBIENTAL: DA CONTRADIÇÃO À VALORAÇÃO DO MEIO AMBIENTE NO BRASIL
Authors: Fonseca Rafael Oliveira
Published: November 2015

RESUMO Os debates acerca da temática ambiental revelam correntemente algumas contradições entre o desenvolvimento considerado sustentável e o modelo de crescimento econômico tradicional. No Brasil essa discussão é extremamente pertinente, dado que no território nacional de diversas formas manifestam-se algumas das contradições que envolvem demandas conjunturais por: crescimento econômico, proteção do meio ambiente e por um desenvolvimento sustentável. Nesse cenário, o Estado, como principal agente na dinâmica da gestão e no planejamento ambiental do território possui um papel primordial por meio da elaboração e execução de políticas públicas condizentes com esse propósito. Como atualmente o Estado (nos diversos níveis de governo) vem realizando maciços investimentos em setores considerados estratégicos para o crescimento econômico, o vetor ambiental vem sendo extremamente pressionado e cada vez mais valorado. Assim, neste contexto repleto de ações contraditórias, nosso artigo visa abordar alguns aspectos da compensação ambiental no Brasil, um instrumento da política ambiental vinculado ao processo de licenciamento ambiental que acaba por valorar o meio ambiente a partir da oneração dos empreendedores públicos ou privados em obras de significativo impacto ambiental.
ESPACIO, TERRITORIO Y LA POLÍTICA DEL AGUA EN LAS SIERRAS CHICAS DE CÓRDOBA – ARGENTINA
Authors: Koberwein Adrian
Published: November 2015

RESUMEN Diversas iniciativas llevadas adelante por grupos e instituciones para encontrar soluciones a la crisis hídrica que sufre la zona de sierras chicas de la Provincia de Córdoba en la Argentina, se articulan con ciertas dinámicas espacio-territoriales. Basándome en un análisis etnográfico y comparativo, en este artículo describo y analizo diferentes conflictos alrededor de la apropiación del recurso hídrico. Considero que estos conflictos sólo pueden explicarse en relación a su dimensión espacio-territorial. Entiendo al espacio-territorio en términos de su producción social. Es decir, en términos del cambio y la transformación producto de la actividad humana. Propongo que, para entender al espacio-territorio en términos procesuales y relacionales, específicamente en términos de su relación con la apropiación de los recursos hídricos, es necesario atender asimismo a las formas fijas y relativamente permanentes que éste adopta, y comprender la manera específica en que las dinámicas de apropiación y control de recursos naturales como el agua se articulan con las diferentes formas en que el espacio-territorio es producido.
A dinâmica demográfica e a produção do espaço urbano em Porto Alegre, Brasil
Authors: Cabette Amanda , Strohaecker Tânia Marques
Published: November 2015

Resumo A dinâmica demográfica de Porto Alegre (RS) caracterizou-se, na última década, pela redução da taxa de fecundidade, o baixo crescimento populacional e o aumento do contingente de idosos, segundo os dados do Censo Demográfico do IBGE (2010), indicando, portanto, uma etapa de transição demográfica. Nesse sentido, o trabalho visa relacionar a transição demográfica com a produção do espaço urbano de Porto Alegre, no período intercensitário de 2000 a 2010. Procura-se analisar a produção do espaço urbano, especificamente da promoção imobiliária, identificando as relações entre o crescimento urbano e o crescimento demográfico com as tendências de configuração espacial da cidade.
Depósitos de escarnitos mineralizados em ferro e cobre do arco magmático de Santa Quitéria, Ceará, Provincia Borborema do nordeste do Brasil
Authors: Parente Clovis Vaz , Veríssimo Cesar Ulisses Vieira , Botelho Nilson Francisquini , Santos Ticiano José Saraiva dos , Oliveira Claudinei Gouveia de , Lira Júnior Jair Araújo de , Martins Douglas Teixeira
Published: November 2015

Resumo Depósitos de escarnitos mineralizados em W-Mo da Província Borborema são conhecidos desde os anos 40. Entretanto, até a execução deste trabalho, não se tinha registros desses depósitos mineralizados em Fe-Cu. No Ceará, as primeiras ocorrências e/ou depósitos de escarnitos ricos em ferro e cobre foram identificadas recentemente no Arco Magmático Continental de Santa Quitéria, considerado produto de evolução de vários arcos magmáticos, variando de arco juvenil (870 - 800 Ma) a colisão continental (625 - 600 Ma). Os escarnitos estão associados às rochas calcissilicáticas e mármores dolomíticos e/ou calcíticos, recortadas por quartzo monzonitos neoproterozóicos cedo a tardi-colisionais. São encontrados todos os tipos do sistema escarnítico como endoescarnitos, hornfels, escarnóides e exoescarnitos. Os exoescarnitos apresentam duas associações minerais, que refletem protólitos carbonáticos distintos: uma composta por clinopiroxênio-granada (estágio progradante) e magnetita-pirrotita-calcopirita-pirita-biotita (estágio retrogradante), característica de protólito calcítico, e outra formada por olivina-espinélio-diopsidio na fase progradante e serpentina na fase retrogradante, representativa de protólito dolomítico. As granadas, em parte zonadas, exibem composição dominada por andradita (82 - 52 mol%), seguida por grossularita (16 - 45mol%) e, em proporção menor, piropo (2 - 3 mol%). O piroxênio do protólito calcítico é típico da série diopsídio-hedenbergita, com composição média Diopsídio46Hedenbergita52Johannsenita2. Três tipos de minério magnetítico são encontrados: i) magnetito bandado; ii) magnetito disseminado; iii) magnetito maciço filoneano. Ocorre ainda um minério sulfetado de cobre com e sem magnetita associado, e blocos de gossans. Os dados geológicos e metalogenéticos obtidos indicam que a gênese destes escarnitos está associada à influência dos granitos monzoníticos tardi-brasilianos e, embora haja dois tipos de escarnito, predomina o mineralizado em ferro e cobre.
Adverse reactions to docetaxel: an active survey
Authors: Pereira Leandro Cabral , Nogueira Thaísa Amorim , Barbosa Leandro Augusto de Oliveira , Calil-Elias Sabrina , Castilho Selma Rodrigues de
Published: November 2015

The rates of breast cancer mortality remain high in Brazil. Docetaxel is a semi-synthetic taxane used to treat various tumors, particularly tumors of the breast, lung and prostate. In this study ADR that occurred in 45 docetaxel users with breast cancer were surveyed. They were identified by type, causality (Naranjo algorithm and World Health Organization categories) and, if considered probable or defined, rated for severity according to SOBRAFO proposal (2007). A total of 325 ADR were observed: 165 in the first, 137 in the second and 23 in the third cycle. Fifty seven ADR were immediate and the others, late. Fatigue and exhaustion for more than five days, classified as Grade 3 by SOBRAFO (2007), were reported as the primary late RAM. There was no significant difference in the occurrence of immediate and late ADR between cycles (p=1 and p=0.3577, respectively). The presence of a pharmacist gave the patients a better understanding of the occurrence of RAM, especially those that occur outside the hospital, between chemotherapy cycles and are often not reported to the healthcare team, creating institutional demands and reaching the goal to track, observe and correlate the RAM for each user.
Development and evaluation of an emulsion containing lycopene for combating acceleration of skin aging
Authors: Cefali Letícia Caramori , Souza-Moreira Tatiana Maria , Corrêa Marcos Antônio , Salgado Hérida Regina Nunes , Isaac Vera Lucia Borges
Published: November 2015

Lycopene, a carotenoid and potent antioxidant is found in large quantities in tomatoes. Lycopene combats diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and different types of cancer, including prostate cancer. However, its topical use in emulsion form for the combat of skin aging is under-explored. The aim of the present study was to develop an emulsion containing lycopene extracted from salad tomatoes and evaluate its cytotoxicity, stability, rheological behavior, antioxidant activity and phytocosmetic permeation. The developed cosmetic comprised an oil phase made up of shea derivatives and was evaluated in terms of its physiochemical stability, spreadability, thermal analysis, rheological behavior, microbiological quality, cytotoxicity, antioxidant activity, cutaneous permeation and retention. The results demonstrate that this phytocosmetic is stable, exhibits satisfactory rheological behavior for a topical formula and is a promising product for combating skin aging.
Development and validation of a rapid turbidimetric assay to determine the potency of norfloxacin in tablets
Authors: Chierentin Lucas , Salgado Hérida Regina Nunes
Published: November 2015

Norfloxacin is one of the first commercially available (and most widely used) fluoroquinolone antibiotics. This paper reports the development and validation of a simple, sensitive, accurate and reproducible turbidimetric assay method to quantify norfloxacin in tablets formulations in only 4 hours. The bioassay is based on the inhibitory effect of norfloxacin upon the strain ofStaphylococcus epidermidis ATCC 12228 IAL 2150 used as test microorganism. The assay was performed 3x3 parallel lines like, three tubes for each concentration of reference substance and three tubes for each sample concentration. The results were treated statistically by analysis of variance and were found to be linear (r2 = 0.9999) in the selected range of 25-100 μg mL-1; precise (intra-assay: relative standard deviation (RSD) = 1.33%; inter-assay: RSD = 0.21%), accurate (100.74%) and robust with RSD lower than 4.5%. The student's t-test showed no statistically significant difference between the proposed turbidimetric method and an HPLC method previously validated. However the turbidimetric assay can be used as a valuable alternative methodology for the routine quality control of this medicine, complementary to other physical-chemical methods.
PROJETO CURUPIRA: UMA PROPOSTA INTERDISCIPLINAR DE EDUCAÇÃO AMBIENTAL PARA CONSTRUÇÃO DA CIDADANIA
Authors: Bizarro Leila Maria Couto Esturaro , Pereira Maria Helena , Silva Leila Maria Sotocorno e , Rigolin Isabela Marega
Published: November 2015

Embora não consiga resolver, sozinha, todos os problemas ambientais da humanidade, a educação ambiental deve ser vista como um dos principais instrumentos para combatê-la. O trabalho tem por objetivo despertar no acadêmico do Curso de Engenharia Ambiental e Sanitária o compromisso e responsabilidade ambiental, no que tange a tutela do meio ambiente, por meio de atividades de educação ambiental junto aos alunos, seja da rede pública ou privada do ensino fundamental – I Ciclo, ilustradas com a figura folclórica do Curupira. Relevante se faz no sentido de trazer à discussão a questão ambiental, ao mesmo tempo em que contribui para a formação cidadã do discente proporcionando-lhe ampliar os conhecimentos e visão holística de mundo. A metodologia empregada deu-se por meio de aulas, palestras, gincanas educativas, pesquisa bibliográfica e artigos científicos eletrônicos. Conclui-se que o Projeto Curupira de educação ambiental vêm de encontro com as propostas oferecidas pelo curso, através do envolvimento e da participação dos alunos na atividade extensiva proposta e no cumprimento da missão institucional da Universidade de desenvolver a educação num ambiente inovador e de formar cidadãos e futuros profissionais comprometidos com a responsabilidade social e ambiental.   Palavras – chave: Educação Ambiental; Sustentabilidade Humana; Ética Ambiental.
Árboles del Valle Central de Costa Rica: reproducción Ceiba (Ceiba pentandra (L.) Gaertn)
Authors: Rojas-Rodríguez Freddy , Torres-Córdoba Gustavo
Published: November 2015

Se presenta una breve descripción del árbol ceiba Ceiba pentandra (L.) Gaertn, información sobre fenología como base para la recolección de frutos, el manejo de las semillas, la viverización y el proceso de germinación.
Diversidad y estructura horizontal en los bosques tropicales del Corredor Biológico de Osa, Costa Rica
Authors: Morales-Salazar Manuel Safrirh , Vílchez-Alvarado Braulio , Chazdon Robin L. , Ortega-Gutiérrez Marco , Ortiz-Malavasi Edgar , Guevara-Bonilla Mario
Published: November 2015

Se establecieron 14 parcelas permanentes (50 m x 100m) distribuidas en diferentes bosques del CorredorBiológico Osa (CBO), Costa Rica. Se evaluó la diversidady estructura horizontal en cuatro estadios de sucesiónde bosque con edades de: 5 a 15 años, 15 a 30 años,mayor de 30 años y primarios. Se identificaron y midierontodos los árboles con diámetro ≥ 5 cm. Los resultadosindicaron que los bosques secundarios fueron menosdiversos y estuvieron menos mezclados que los primariospara los diferentes índices utilizados, sin embargo estosvalores incrementaron con la edad de los bosques. Lascurvas de acumulación de especies en función del áreay número de individuos muestreados, mostraron que ladiversidad y riqueza aumentó proporcionalmente con la edad de los bosques. El área basal y número de especiesse muestrancomo mejores parámetros para medir el grado de recuperación de los bosques, contrario alnúmero de árboles por hectárea que no es tan efectivo.La distribución de los árboles y número de especiespor clase de diámetro tomaron la forma de “J” invertida,donde la reserva de árboles y especies en las primerasclases aseguran el equilibrio de los bosques. La principaldiferencia en la distribución del área basal por categoríade diámetro se presentó en las últimas clases (> 55 cm),donde los bosques primarios presentaron los mayoresvalores, los cuales se concentraron en pocas especies yárboles de gran porte.
Inheritance of Pericarp Color, Nutritional Quality, and Grain Composition Traits in Black Sorghum
Authors: Pfeiffer Brian K. , Rooney William L.
Published: November 2015

Black pericarp grain sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] has high levels of phenolic compounds, especially 3‐deoxyanthocyanidins (3‐DOAs), which have application in food science and human nutrition as a high‐antioxidant food additive, natural food colorant, and natural food preservative. The inheritance of this trait is complex and has not been the subject of investigation, thus limiting further genetic improvement. To determine the genetic mechanisms governing this novel trait, a generation means analysis was performed using Tx378 (red), Tx3362 (black), and F1, F2, and backcross generations derived from these parents. These six generations were evaluated in 2013 in three diverse Texas growing environments. Significant additive, dominance, and epistatic effects were detected for grain color and associated grain composition traits. Segregating distributions confirmed black sorghum was recessive to red. Estimates of broad‐sense heritability on color traits ranged from 0.42 to 1.00, and 3‐DOA content was moderately to highly heritable (0.70). Methods to estimate gene number controlling the black pericarp trait ranged from 2 to 12 genes. Despite the complicated mode of inheritance, enough variation exists for future improvement of black sorghum. Creation of high‐yielding hybrids with uniformly dark grain and high levels of phenolic compounds will be possible through standard plant breeding practices.
Comparing Genotyping‐by‐Sequencing and Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Chip Genotyping for Quantitative Trait Loci Mapping in Wheat
Authors: Bajgain Prabin , Rouse Matthew N. , Anderson James A.
Published: November 2015

Array‐ or chip‐based single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers are widely used in genomic studies because of their abundance in a genome and lower cost per data point than older marker technologies. Genotyping‐by‐sequencing (GBS), a relatively newer approach of genotyping, suggests equal appeal because of its lesser cost per data point and the avoidance of ascertainment bias during genotyping. In this study, we compared the results from quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping, marker distribution on linkage maps, genome size, recombination sites covered by the markers, and cost per polymorphic marker, as well as the methodology and workflow between the Illumina Infinium 9000 SNP‐chip genotyping with GBS. Results indicate that while GBS offers similar genome coverage at almost one‐fourth the cost of SNP chip, the SNP‐chip method is less demanding of computational skills and resources. Eight and nine QTL were detected in the GBS and SNP‐chip datasets, respectively, with one QTL common between the systems. Additionally, imputation accuracy of the GBS dataset was examined by introducing missing values randomly and imputing the missing alleles using a probabilistic principal components algorithm. Imputation results suggest recovery of the missing alleles with reasonable accuracy in datasets with low (up to 40%) amount of missing data is possible and can provide acceptable accuracy in gene mapping. Overall, the comparative results indicate that both approaches provide good genome coverage and similar mapping results. The choice of the genotyping platform is decided by the nature of the study and available resources.
Philip E. Cryer, MD: Seminal Contributions to the Understanding of Hypoglycemia and Glucose Counterregulation and the Discovery of HAAF (Cryer Syndrome)
Authors: Dagogo-Jack Samuel
Published: November 2015

Optimized glycemic control prevents and slows the progression of long-term complications in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. In healthy individuals, a decrease in plasma glucose below the physiological range triggers defensive counterregulatory responses that restore euglycemia. Many individuals with diabetes harbor defects in their defenses against hypoglycemia, making iatrogenic hypoglycemia the Achilles heel of glycemic control. This Profile in Progress focuses on the seminal contributions of Philip E. Cryer, MD, to our understanding of hypoglycemia and glucose counterregulation, particularly his discovery of the syndrome of hypoglycemia-associated autonomic failure (HAAF).
Long-term Glycemic Variability and Risk of Adverse Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Gorst Catherine , Kwok Chun Shing , Aslam Saadia , Buchan Iain , Kontopantelis Evangelos , Myint Phyo K. , Heatlie Grant , Loke Yoon , Rutter Martin K. , Mamas Mamas A.
Published: November 2015

OBJECTIVE

Glycemic variability is emerging as a measure of glycemic control, which may be a reliable predictor of complications. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluates the association between HbA1c variability and micro- and macrovascular complications and mortality in type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Medline and Embase were searched (2004–2015) for studies describing associations between HbA1c variability and adverse outcomes in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Data extraction was performed independently by two reviewers. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed with stratification according to the measure of HbA1c variability, method of analysis, and diabetes type.

RESULTS

Seven studies evaluated HbA1c variability among patients with type 1 diabetes and showed an association of HbA1c variability with renal disease (risk ratio 1.56 [95% CI 1.08–2.25], two studies), cardiovascular events (1.98 [1.39–2.82]), and retinopathy (2.11 [1.54–2.89]). Thirteen studies evaluated HbA1c variability among patients with type 2 diabetes. Higher HbA1c variability was associated with higher risk of renal disease (1.34 [1.15–1.57], two studies), macrovascular events (1.21 [1.06–1.38]), ulceration/gangrene (1.50 [1.06–2.12]), cardiovascular disease (1.27 [1.15–1.40]), and mortality (1.34 [1.18–1.53]). Most studies were retrospective with lack of adjustment for potential confounders, and inconsistency existed in the definition of HbA1c variability.

CONCLUSIONS

HbA1c variability was positively associated with micro- and macrovascular complications and mortality independently of the HbA1c level and might play a future role in clinical risk assessment.
Relating Theology and Religious Studies: Reflections on the German Academic Landscape
Authors: Hafner Johann
Published: November 2015

The ongoing decrease of membership and influence of the mainline Christian churches in Germany provokes the question of whether Christian theological departments should continue to have a predominant position at state universities guaranteed by the constitution and state-church treaties. This situation is exacerbated when universities refuse to hire competent candidates for theological departments because they lack the required denominational profile. Further, there is a widening gap in student numbers between denominationally driven theological departments, and religious studies departments that also cover non-Christian religions, despite the fact that they share methodologies and theories, especially in philological and historical research. So this article tries to describe the relation between the disciplines of theology and religious studies in a more complex way. It uses a system-theoretical approach to show that theology addresses the problem of self-application, which religious studies cannot solve alone. Why do religious studies focus on religious studies? It argues that the discipline of theology can be integrated into religious studies departments.
Dynamic Modulus Prediction of Asphalt Concrete Mixtures through Computational Micromechanics
Authors: Karki Pravat , Kim Yong-Rak , Little Dallas N.
Published: November 2015

This paper presents a computational micromechanics modeling approach to predict the dynamic modulus of asphalt concrete mixtures. The modeling uses a finite element method combined with the micromechanical representative volume element (RVE) of mixtures and laboratory tests that characterize the properties of individual mixture constituents. The model treats asphalt concrete mixtures as heterogeneous with two primary phases: a linear viscoelastic fine aggregate matrix (FAM) phase and a linear elastic aggregate phase. The mechanical properties of each phase were experimentally obtained by conducting constitutive tests: oscillatory torsion tests for the viscoelastic FAM phase and quasistatic nanoindentation tests for the elastic aggregate particles. Material properties of each mixture phase were then used in the finite element simulation of two-dimensional mixture microstructures obtained from digital image processes of asphalt concrete mixtures. Model simulations were compared with the experimental dynamic moduli of asphalt concrete mixtures. Simulation results indicated that the micromechanical approach based on the mixture microstructure and phase properties could fairly predict the overall mixture properties that are typically obtained from laboratory mixture tests. Furthermore, the RVE dimension of 60 mm might be used to predict the undamaged viscoelastic stiffness characteristics of asphalt concrete mixtures with reduced computing efforts.
Understanding Sources of Variability of Overlay Test Procedure
Authors: Garcia Victor M. , Miramontes Alejandro
Published: November 2015

“Fatigue cracking” is defined as the accumulation of reflective cracking on hot-mix asphalt (HMA) layers under the repeated application of vehicular loads combined with climatic effects. Several highway agencies have either implemented or considered implementing the overlay tester (OT) to evaluate the fatigue cracking resistance of HMA specimens as a function of the number of cycles that the specimen may resist during the test until a reflective crack appears and propagates. The repeatability of the number of cycles to failure measured with the OT is considered as one of the main challenges in reliably evaluating the fatigue cracking resistance of asphalt mixtures. The objective of this paper is to discuss some of the sources and causes of variability of the parameters measured with the OT. Some of the possible causes of inconsistency in the results include the amount of torque applied to attach OT specimens, the amount of glue required for each OT specimen, the curing time of the glue, and the elapsed time between preparation and testing. For a better delineation of the uncertainties associated with the preparation process of HMA specimens and the mechanism of the OT equipment, a thorough study and practical laboratory evaluation of key steps involved in the overlay test protocol were performed on several synthetic and HMA specimens. Through the investigation of the important inconsistencies in the future guidelines, the variability and repeatability of the results from the OT on the number of cycles to failure may be improved.
Dynamic Modulus of Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Cooper Samuel B. , Mohammad Louay N. , Elseifi Mostafa A. , Raghavendra Amar
Published: November 2015

Mix properties that deviate appreciably from the design properties during the production and construction of asphalt mixtures can lead to premature pavement distress or even failure. The objective of this study was to quantify the differences in the dynamic modulus of specimens prepared during design, production, and construction of dense-graded asphalt pavements and their effects on pavement performance prediction. For the achievement of this objective, Superpave® mixtures were collected from Iowa, Florida, Virginia, Michigan, South Dakota, Louisiana, Minnesota, and Wisconsin during design [laboratory-mixed and laboratory-compacted (LL)], production [plant-produced and laboratory-compacted (PL)], and construction [plant-produced and field-compacted (PF) specimens]. The nominal maximum aggregate size was kept constant at 12.5 mm. An indirect tension dynamic complex modulus (IDT | E*|) was measured for the three specimen types (i.e., LL, PL, and PF). Results showed that laboratory-compacted and field-compacted specimens exhibited large and significant differences. This finding was attributed to differences in the compaction effort and procedure between the field and the laboratory. Results of the AASHTOWare Pavement ME Design showed that the use of dynamic moduli obtained from different specimen types would result in significant differences in pavement performance prediction. This research was part of NCHRP Project 9-48, Field Versus Laboratory Volumetrics and Mechanical Properties.
Probabilistic Modeling of Dynamic Modulus Master Curves for Hot-Mix Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Kahil Noura Sirine , Najjar Shadi S. , Chehab Ghassan
Published: November 2015

Since the introduction of the dynamic modulus E* concept in the recent Mechanistic–Empirical Pavement Design Guide, there has been considerable interest in establishing reliable prediction models for E*. An investigation of the effectiveness of commonly used predictive models shows that E* predictions exhibit significant scatter around the measured values, with percentage of errors reaching about 6200%. A need exists for characterizing the uncertainties that are inherent in E* to serve as input to any future robust reliability analysis that aims at properly determining the probability of unsatisfactory performance of asphalt pavement systems. The primary objective of this study was to present a probabilistic model that would allow the user to determine a priori probability distribution for E* given knowledge about temperature and frequency. The seven-parameter model was based on the sigmoidal function and the shift factor that related reduced frequency to real frequency and temperature. The model was calibrated on the basis of a well-known published database that included 7,400 laboratory measurements of E* for 346 asphalt mixes. Monte Carlo simulations were used to propagate the uncertainties in the seven model parameters and determine realistic estimates of the mean, coefficient of variation, and probability distribution of E* at different frequencies and temperatures. Results showed that E* could be modeled by using a lognormal distribution with a mean that was estimated from the mean values of the parameters and a coefficient of variation that varied from a minimum of 0.55 for high values of reduced frequency to a maximum of 1.55 for lower values of reduced frequency.
Substitutability of Electricity and Renewable Materials for Fossil Fuels in a Post-Carbon Economy
Authors: García-Olivares Antonio
Published: November 2015

A feasible way to avoid the risk of energy decline and combat climate change is to build a 100% renewable global energy mix. However, a globally electrified economy cannot grow much above 12 electric terawatts without putting pressure on the limits of finite mineral reserves. Here we analyze whether 12 TW of electricity and 1 TW of biomass (final) power will be able to fuel a future post-carbon economy that can provide similar services to those of a contemporary economy. Contrarily to some pessimistic expectations, this analysis shows that the principle economic processes can be replaced with sustainable alternatives based on electricity, charcoal, biogas and hydrogen. Furthermore, those services that cannot be replaced are not as crucial so as to cause a return to a pre-industrial society. Even so, land transport and aviation are at the limit of what is sustainable, outdoor work should be reorganized, metal primary production should be based on hydrogen reduction when possible, mineral production should be increasingly based on recycling, the petrochemical industry should shrink to a size of 40%–43% of the 2012 petrochemical sector, i.e., a size similar to that the sector had in 1985–1986, and agriculture may require organic farming methods to be sustainable.
Pyranocoumarins from Root Extracts of Peucedanum praeruptorum Dunn with Multidrug Resistance Reversal and Anti-Inflammatory Activities
Authors: Lee Jun , Lee You , Kim Jinhee , Bang Ok-Sun
Published: November 2015

In the search for novel herbal-based anticancer agents, we isolated a new angular-type pyranocoumarin, (+)-cis-(3′S,4′S)-3′-angeloyl-4′-tigloylkhellactone (1) along with 12 pyranocoumarins (2–13), two furanocoumarins (14, 15), and a polyacetylene (16) were isolated from the roots of Peucedanum praeruptorum using chromatographic separation methods. The structures of the compounds were determined using spectroscopic analysis with nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and high-resolution-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (HR-ESI-MS). The multidrug-resistance (MDR) reversal and anti-inflammatory effects of all the isolated compounds were evaluated in human sarcoma MES-SA/Dx5 and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 cells. Among the 16 tested compounds, two (2 and 16) downregulated nitric oxide (NO) production and five (1, 7, 8, 11, and 13) inhibited the efflux of drugs by MDR protein, indicating the reversal of MDR. Therefore, these compounds may be potential candidates for the development of effective agents against MDR forms of cancer.
DNA Aptamers in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Human Diseases
Authors: Zhu Qinchang , Liu Ge , Kai Masaaki
Published: November 2015

Aptamers have a promising role in the field of life science and have been extensively researched for application as analytical tools, therapeutic agents and as vehicles for targeted drug delivery. Compared with RNA aptamers, DNA aptamers have inherent advantages in stability and facility of generation and synthesis. To better understand the specific potential of DNA aptamers, an overview of the progress in the generation and application of DNA aptamers in human disease diagnosis and therapy are presented in this review. Special attention is given to researches that are relatively close to practical application. DNA aptamers are expected to have great potential in the diagnosis and treatment of human diseases.
Development and Evaluation of Liquid and Solid Self-Emulsifying Drug Delivery Systems for Atorvastatin
Authors: Czajkowska-Kośnik Anna , Szekalska Marta , Amelian Aleksandra , Szymańska Emilia , Winnicka Katarzyna
Published: November 2015

The objective of this work was to design and characterize liquid and solid self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDS) for poorly soluble atorvastatin. To optimize the composition of liquid atorvastatin-SEDDS, solubility tests, pseudoternary phase diagrams, emulsification studies and other in vitro examinations (thermodynamic stability, droplet size and zeta potential analysis) were performed. Due to the disadvantages of liquid SEDDS (few choices for dosage forms, low stability and portability during the manufacturing process), attempts were also made to obtain solid SEDDS. Solid SEDDS were successfully obtained using the spray drying technique from two optimized liquid formulations, CF3 and OF2. Despite liquid SEDDS formulation, CF3 was characterized by lower turbidity, higher percentage transmittance and better self-emulsifying properties, and based on the in vitro dissolution study it can be concluded that better solubilization properties were exhibited by solid formulation OF2. Overall, the studies demonstrated the possibility of formulating liquid and solid SEEDS as promising carriers of atorvastatin. SEDDS, with their unique solubilization properties, provide the opportunity to deliver lipophilic drugs to the gastrointestinal tract in a solubilized state, avoiding dissolution—a restricting factor in absorption rate of BCS Class 2 drugs, including atorvastatin.
Optical Characteristics of a Multichannel Hybrid Integrated Light Source for Ultra-High-Bandwidth Optical Interconnections
Authors: Shimizu Takanori , Hatori Nobuaki , Kurihara Mitsuru , Urino Yutaka , Yamamoto Tsuyoshi , Nakamura Takahiro , Arakawa Yasuhiko
Published: November 2015

The optical characteristics of a multi-channel hybrid integrated light source were described for an optical interconnection with a bandwidth of over 10 Tbit/s. The power uniformity of the relative intensity of a 1000-channel light source was shown, and the minimum standard deviation s of the optical power of the 200 output ports at each 25-channel laser diode (LD) array was estimated to be 0.49 dB. This hybrid integrated light source is expected to be easily adaptable to a photonics-electronics convergence system for ultra-high-bandwidth interchip interconnections.
Ginger‐derived nanoparticles protect against alcohol‐induced liver damage
Authors: Zhuang Xiaoying , Deng Zhong‐Bin , Mu Jingyao , Zhang Lifeng , Yan Jun , Miller Donald , Feng Wenke , McClain Craig J. , Zhang Huang‐Ge
Published: November 2015

Daily exposure of humans to nanoparticles from edible plants is inevitable, but significant advances are required to determine whether edible plant nanoparticles are beneficial to our health. Additionally, strategies are needed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying any beneficial effects. Here, as a proof of concept, we used a mouse model to show that orally given nanoparticles isolated from ginger extracts using a sucrose gradient centrifugation procedure resulted in protecting mice against alcohol‐induced liver damage. The ginger‐derived nanoparticle (GDN)–mediated activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) led to the expression of a group of liver detoxifying/antioxidant genes and inhibited the production of reactive oxygen species, which partially contributes to the liver protection. Using lipid knock‐out and knock‐in strategies, we further identified that shogaol in the GDN plays a role in the induction of Nrf2 in a TLR4/TRIF‐dependent manner. Given the critical role of Nrf2 in modulating numerous cellular processes, including hepatocyte homeostasis, drug metabolism, antioxidant defenses, and cell‐cycle progression of liver, this finding not only opens up a new avenue for investigating GDN as a means to protect against the development of liver‐related diseases such as alcohol‐induced liver damage but sheds light on studying the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying interspecies communication in the liver via edible plant–derived nanoparticles.
Acuario y reptilario. Turín
Authors: Venturelli Enzo
Published: November 2015

Las nuevas instalaciones del Zoo de Turín comprenden en la planta de sótano: el depósito de reserva de agua de mar, los desagües de los recipientes de los acuarios, cámaras biológicas, etc. El semisótano, ocupado por el acuario, aloja: cinco cámaras biológicas, diez recipientes-acuarios y dos escaleras de servicio. En la zona de ingreso de la planta baja se distribuyen: el vestíbulo central, las oficinas de la dirección, la entrada del público, la taquilla y los aseos; desde el vestíbulo se baja por una escalinata central, a la planta del acuario, y, por medio de dos tramos de escalera laterales, se sube a la primera planta destinada a reptilario, que aloja un total de 16 cámaras con pasos elevados para que el público pueda disfrutar de una clara visión de los reptiles. En el centro se encuentra el departamento para cocodrilos. Enzo Venturelli ha creado en el exterior de este edificio una arquitectura expresionista, que él define como "arquitectura nuclear", y en el interior ha encontrado la solución de muchos y no fáciles problemas técnicos, estructurales y funcionales.
Casa de la Cultura, en Cuenca
Authors: Fisac Miguel
Published: November 2015

Este edificio para «Casa de la Cultura», en Cuenca, está organizado en tres plantas, un semisótano y una zona sobreelevada.
El semisótano aloja los servicios de calefacción y añejos. En la planta primera se distribuyen la sala de lectora infantil y una zona amplia de recepción anida a la sala de exposiciones y a la escalera de enlace; directamente, desde la zona de recepción, se encuentra un acceso al salón de actos. En el ángulo O., está la vivienda del conserje.
En la planta segunda se hallan la zona de ficheros, sección de revistas, sala general de lectura y zona de dirección. En la planta tercera continúa el servicio general de biblioteca, una sala de juntas, la vivienda del director, etc. Y, por último, la cuarta planta está destinada a Centro de estudios conquenses.
Independiente en cuanto à disposición de plantas, seis en total, pero en comunicación directa con cada una de las plantas del edificio principal, se alza una torre depósito de libros, capaz para 9.000 volúmenes por planta.
Depósito elevado de hormigón armado, Argentina
Authors: Editorial Equipo
Published: November 2015

Para abastecer de agua a un gran conjunto industrial que construye la Empresa S. A. D. E. cerca de Buenos Aires (Argentina), se ha construido un depósito elevado, de 80 m3 de capacidad y 21 m de altura. La cubeta, de hormigón armado, tiene la forma de una copa aplanada de planta circular y se ha subdividido en cuatro compartimientos comunicados dos a dos, simétricos respecto al eje vertical, con objeto de conservar el equilibrio de cargas durante las operaciones de carga y vaciado. La particularidad de este depósito consiste en su método constructivo y en los procedimientos de prefabricación empleados. El fuste o soporte único central es un cilindro hueco, formado por trozos prefabricados, de 1,60 m de longitud. El de base se apoya sobre una losa circular —que descansa sobre cuatro pilotes cilíndricos, de hormigón, prefabricados de 15 m de longitud—debajo de la cual se han instalado las válvulas de paso. El acceso a la parte superior se realiza por medio de una escalera en espiral, cuyos peldaños se apoyan en el fuste cilíndrico. Para mayor estabilidad entre elementos se han montado seis barras metálicas, de 7,5 cm de diámetro, que se han aprovechado, además, para apoyar el pasamanos de dicha escalera. El par de vuelco creado por los efectos de viento y sobrecargas móviles se contrarresta por medio de seis vigas radiales, de 5 m de longitud.
El entretenimiento preventivo de la maquinaria y el material
Authors: Chinchilla M.
Published: November 2015

La primera fase del entretenimiento preventivo de la maquinaria exige una labor de inspección detenida y constante por parte del personal encargado de su manejo, con objeto de evitar en lo posible se produzcan averías que, al no ser detectadas, puedan ocasionar la paralización de la maquinaria y aumentar los costos de las reparaciones, además de la pérdida que supone la correspondiente inmovilización.
En el caso concreto de las grúas sobre camión y de las palas excavadoras deberá exigirse que tanto antes como durante el trabajo, y después de efectuado el servicio, se revise una serie de mecanismos particulares de cada máquina, además de las normas de inspección generales relativas a limpieza, lubricación y ausencia de defectos y desgastes en los sistemas comunes a todas las máquinas.
Es preciso recordar que, pese a la molestia que supone la monotonía de esta labor, es indispensable la misma si se quiere evitar que las máquinas degeneren en una fuente de gastos y de disgustos.
Consultorios médicos, en Newport
Authors: Neutra Richard J.
Published: November 2015

Como el grupo de médicos-copropietarios que ocupa este edificio de una planta está integrado por varios especialistas, algunos de ellos de la misma especialidad, uno de los requisitos que se le plantearon al arquitecto fue el lograr una adecuada separación entre sus respectivas consultas que asegurase una independencia de la clientela individual.
Otro de los requisitos fue el que los pacientes pudieran disfrutar de una atmósfera agradable y relajante.
El conjunto edificado está constituido por una serie de cuerpos que dan a un patio común. Es un claro ejemplo de los efectos psicomáticos beneficiosos que puede llegar a producir, sobre los pacientes, un edificio proyectado con sabiduría, exquisitez y cuidado, y pensando siempre en el fin a que se destina.
Ciclo de estudios de Ginebra. La industrialización de la construcción
Authors: Aguirre de Yraola Fernando
Published: November 2015

El presente artículo es una información referente al Ciclo de Estudios realizado por el Grupo de Trabajo de la Comisión Económica para Europa, de las Naciones Unidas (Comité de la Vivienda, de la Edificación y de la Planificación), y contiene una recopilación de las ideas tomadas de los documentos del Secretariado de dicha Comisión. Los problemas tratados pueden incluirse en la siguiente temática general: Comparación de los costos de la construcción; Efectos de la repetición sobre las operaciones de construcción en obra; Economía y técnica de la conservación de edificios; Estadística de la mecanización de la industria de la edificación, y Coordinación dimensional de elementos constructivos.
La experiencia belga en la construcción y reparación de carreteras de hormigón
Authors: García Meseguer A. , Piñeiro Abril R.
Published: November 2015

Siendo Bélgica uno de los primeros países europeos en la construcción de pavimentos de hormigón (tanto por la tradición que en él tiene este tipo de firmes como por la extensión de su red y la modernidad y originalidad de sus técnicas), nos ha parecido interesante redactar un bosquejo histórico de las realizaciones belgas en este campo y resumir las principales conclusiones a. las que conduce la experiencia de dicho país, tanto en lo relativo a construcción como a reparaciones.
Desde el punto de vista cronológico la historia de las carreteras belgas de hormigón se puede dividir en tres grandes etapas, perfectamente diferenciadas por las características propias de las realizaciones llevadas a cabo en cada una de ellas.
Estas tres etapas son las siguientes: 1ª Anterior al año 1930; 2ª De 1930 a 1955; 3ª A partir de 1955.
La pintura como material de ingeniería civil
Authors: Ortega Juan J.
Published: November 2015

En este artículo se hace una descripción detallada de las características que deben reunir los recubrimientos orgánicos, las funciones específicas que se les asignan y el modo de predecir el comportamiento de los que se empleen en dos grandes aspectos de la Ingeniería Civil, como son:
a) La protección de las superficies de hierro y acero contra la corrosión, dado el extraordinario interés técnico y económico de la corrosión de los hierros industriales.
b) El acabado de estructuras que hayan de permanecer a la intemperie (pinturas para aplicación sobre madera y de acabado de superficies metálicas).