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In this paper, an intensive review was made to propose Fibers Pavement Concrete (FPC) for Salang-Road Afghanistan. Moreover, structural properties of FPC were also evaluated and compared with those of Asphalt road. There are various benefits in application of Fiber within rigid pavement. For instance, FPC has longer life and lower maintenance cost in compare with the flexible pavement. In rigid pavement design temperature and thickness are two effective parameters that could widely affect by inclusion of fiber to the total cost of the Salang Road-Project. Different types of fibers with volume fraction optimization which economical and safe are introduced. A concept was adopted to quantify the benefits of adding fiber in terms of extension of the pavement service life and also in terms of reduction in the concrete thickness for the same service life of both reinforced and unreinforced concrete pavement sections. that the use of fibers reduces the thickness of road pavement, enhance the durability and subsequently decreases the overall cost of road construction of Salang rigid pavement.

ABSTRACT Desertification is the degradation process caused by climatic conditions and human activities that results in loss of soil productivity and decline in vegetation growth in the long term. Several indices related to vegetation, soil and climate are used to monitor desertification, but few studies explore qualitative and quantitative aspects of indices on desertification on spatial and hierarchical scale. This study aims to identify and measure indices related to increased risk of desertification on global, local and hierarchical scales using multinomial logistic regression models. Images from TM, ETM+ and OLI sensor from 1997 to 2018 in the end of dry and rainy seasons were used to quantify NDVI, TGSI, albedo, temperature, aridity index, evapotranspiration and precipitation on global spatial scale (Irauçuba Centro Norte) and local spatial scale (Miraíma, Canindé, Irauçuba and Santa Quitéria). GISD was calculated by geometric mean of weighted indices and segmented into 8 classes of susceptibility to desertification (hierarchical scale). The results showed that the best models were obtained on local scale and for the end of the rainy season. Temperature proved to be the most important variable for increased risk of desertification on global, local and hierarchical scales. Therefore, the increase in the risk of desertification in the studied areas is due to human activities of deforestation, overgrazing and fire. These factors contributed to reduction of vegetation cover and increase in temperature, changing the microclimatic, which led to decline in precipitation and worsening of desertification.

ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the use of the product of thermal efficiency and photosynthetically active radiation (TEP) to model the growth of tomato seedlings across different growing seasons. The work was conducted in a completely randomized design with four replicates in two seasons (summer/autumn and winter/spring). Height, diameter, the Dickson’s Quality Index (DQI), and total plant mass (TPM) were measured at 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40 days after sowing (DAS). The logistic model was fitted for each measured variable as a function of TEP, and the partial derivatives of the fitted function estimated the critical points. The results demonstrated that the logistic function effectively explained the nonlinear relationships of seedling growth. The fit quality parameters showed high fitted coefficients of determination and low values for the standard error of fit, residual standard deviation, and intrinsic and parametric nonlinearity. It was possible to characterize the growth process of tomato seedlings in both growth periods investigated. The logistic model fitted for the studied variables as a function of TEP becomes an accurate model capable of describing growth aspects of tomato seedlings, such as growth estimation, growth speed, and growth rate, essential parameters for decision-making in tomato cultivation.

This research article introduces a microcontroller-based prototype system called the Battery Health Monitoring System (BHMS), designed to evaluate the health and condition of lead-acid batteries. The focus of the study is on utilizing the Internet of Things (IoT) for real-time battery monitoring. The system incorporates various sensors to track and record critical parameters such as current, voltage, power drain, state of charge (SOC), temperature, and overall battery health. These sensors are configured to trigger an alert when any monitored parameters fall below predefined values. The study aims to validate the effectiveness of the proposed low-cost system in real-time monitoring of lead-acid batteries.

Objectives: this study aimed at estimating and comparing the reliability of temperature measurements obtained using a peripheral infrared temporal thermometer, a central cutaneous thermometer (“Zero-Heat-Flux Cutaneous thermometer”) and an esophageal or nasopharyngeal thermometer among elective surgical patients in the intraoperative period. Method: a longitudinal study with repeated measures carried out by convenience sampling of 99 patients, aged at least 18 years old, undergoing elective abdominal cancer surgeries, with anesthesia lasting at least one hour, with each patient having their temperature measured by all three methods. Results: the intraclass correlation coefficient showed a low correlation between the measurements using the peripheral temporal thermometer and the central cutaneous (0.0324) and esophageal/nasopharyngeal (-0.138) thermometers. There was a high correlation (0.744) between the central thermometers evaluated. Conclusion: the data from the current study do not recommend using infrared temporal thermometers as a strategy for measuring the body temperature of patients undergoing anesthetic-surgical procedures. Central cutaneous thermometers and esophageal/nasopharyngeal thermometers are equivalent for detecting intraoperative hypothermia.

In this work, as a case study, the measurement of the density (ρ) and the dynamic viscosity (µ) of 12 different fluids (taken from a conventional oil mill) has been carried out. The variability of the samples processed shows that their impurity contents c (between 0.5-5.87%), together with the temperature t (which varied between 20-30 ºC), can affect the values of ρ and µ. However, this variation has been shown to be different depending on the case, being of the order of 1% for density or even more than 50% for dynamic viscosity. The fact that µ can be sensitive to the presence of impurities opens up a line of study that could be used to estimate such impuritiy content, in real time, by means of relatively simple methods.

Contextualization: Climatic conditions are determining factors of fruits quality at the time of harvesting and are defined by the physicochemical and physiological characteristics of the fruit. Knowledge gap: knowing the relationship between different variables that can affect the production of the Horvin plum variety. Purpose: To observe the effect of climatic conditions on some physicochemical and physiological characteristics of plum fruits Horvin variety from its set to harvest. Methodology: Thermo-hygrometers were installed in each location placed at four different altitudes in order to obtain the temperature and relative humidity during the observation period. Moreover, the precipitation was measured with pluviometers installed at each location. The fruits were removed from different branches of the middle part of the trees on each of the study days. Results and conclusions: Climatic conditions greatly influenced the growth and development of plum fruit. Changes in weight and size were observed from harvest to harvest in the four locations studied. It was observed that the climatic conditions of the first harvest, especially the temperature, and precipitation, were affected by the El Niño phenomenon. Thus, a difference was reached between the average temperature of 6 °C each month. In addition, there was a difference of 19 °C between the coldest and warmest months, respectively, with average annual precipitation values of 907.2mm concentrated from July to November. For the second harvest, the temperature decreased, and there was more precipitation in the zone with an average temperature of 7 °C, and an average maximum temperature of 22 °C each month with average annual precipitation values of 1100mm concentrated from April to July.

Abstract The objective of this work was to evaluate the infestation of the flower-bud-fly in different sizes of flower buds and to relate the infestation with the plant phenology and weather variables. In the 2017/18 and 2018/19 seasons, flower buds of plants were collected to obtain pupae, adults, and parasitoids in a commercial orchard of sour passion fruit, in Sombrio, state of Santa Catarina. The level of infestation, pupal viability, and percentage of parasitism were calculated. Every fortnight, the vegetative and reproductive structures of 12 orchard plants (0.25 m² per plant), randomly distributed, were monitored, as soon as they reached the height of the trellis. Three population peaks of the floral bud fly were observed in the seasons, which preferred to oviposit in buds larger than 2 cm. The critical period for pest monitoring and control occurred between November and December. The average temperature and precipitation were the main factors that influenced the production of sour passion fruit. The average temperature was correlated with the emission of flower buds and the emergence of lonqueids. D. inedulis was the predominant species in flower buds, in which Dasiopssp.1, Dasiops sp. 2, and Neosilba certa were reported for the first time. It was also the first report of Utetes anastrephae and Aganaspis pelleranoias parasitoids of larvae-pupae of the flower bud fly of the sour passion fruit tree in Santa Catarina.

Abstract The objective of this work was to evaluate the occurrence of the maternal effect on thermotolerance in lettuce (Lactuca sativa) seeds, as well as to find an enzymatic marker for this trait in lettuce seedlings. Seeds from the Everglades thermotolerant cultivar, the Verônica susceptible cultivar, and their reciprocal hybrids were used. For each cultivar and reciprocal hybrid, germination percentage and vigor (germination speed index) tests were carried out at 20 and 32°C. Thermotolerance was defined as the capacity to germinate at 32°C. To obtain markers that could be associated with thermotolerance, enzymatic tests were performed. The bands of the electrophoretic enzymatic extracts were quantified using the ImageJ software. The hybrids behaved similarly to their female genitors. When cultivar Verônica was the female genitor, hybrid seeds did not germinate at high temperatures and showed a lower expression of the esterase enzyme. However, when the female genitor was the Everglades cultivar, hybrids showed a high germination at high temperatures and a greater esterase expression. Therefore, there is a maternal effect on tolerance to thermoinhibition in lettuce seeds, and the esterase enzyme can be used as a selective marker to identify homozygous progenies for this trait.

This study aims to analyse the effect of temperature and wind speed on the performance of different types of photovoltaic (PV) systems at a different state in Malaysia and how it affects the economics and environmental impact assessment in the present year of 2018 as well as future years in 2030 and 2040. Three types of grid-connected solar PV modules namely Mono-Crystalline, Poly-crystalline, and Thin Film were selected to be implemented in different cities of Shah Alam, Chuping, Alor Setar, Ipoh and Kota Kinabalu. A mathematical model was adopted to estimate the performance characteristics of the solar PV modules. Based on the data in the present year, the highest power output produced by the Mc-Si module for Alor Setar city is given by 33.40 MWh/year while the lowest amount of power output provided by this PV panel is about 28.18 MWh/year in Shah Alam. Furthermore, an area of 144 m2 for the Mono-Crystalline PV module can satisfy the total energy requirement by the resident as it was the most profitable to be implemented compared to Poly-crystalline and Thin Film. The findings of this study can serve as important information on the economic viability of installing PV systems in the selected cities in Malaysia.

ABSTRACT Pisum sativum L. is a multi-purpose crop. The duration of its vegetative and reproductive periods is determined by a combination of temperature and humidity and genotype response to these conditions. To minimize the loss of productivity due to adverse conditions in sensitive periods of the crop, we evaluated the phenological development and production of Pisum sativum L. in different growing seasons. We used a randomized block design, and the experiments were conducted across five growing seasons, with four replications and eight plants per experimental unit. The variables analyzed were as follows: plastochron, number of days to start flowering, full flowering, and beginning of harvest, the accumulated thermal sum to start flowering, full flowering, and beginning of harvest, and the number of pods, pod mass, and total productivity per unit area. The analysis of variance was performed, and the mean values of the data were compared using the Scott-Knott test. Principal component analysis was also performed from Pearson’s correlation matrix of phenological and production variables. In seasons 1, 4, and 5, the plants reached full flowering earlier, and the pod mass was considerably lower, resulting in lower yields. Seasons 2 and 3 were the most productive and showed lower results for plastochron, less thermal sum until full flowering, and a shorter photoperiod, which, combined with low temperatures during the growing season, resulted in a longer cultivation cycle.

The department of La Guajira (Colombia) presents a great diversity of plant species, among these, halophilic and psamophilic species such as Ipomoea pes-caprae (L.) R.Br., which is distributed in the department coastal area. It was unknown whether I. pes-caprae produces phenols in concentrations high, enough under La Guajira’s environmental conditions, to consider its use; therefore, the aim of this research was to establish the influence of weather on total phenols production and antioxidant potential of foliar extracts. Leaf tissue samples were taken during one year and subjected to methanol extraction. To establish total phenols concentration, Folin-Ciocalteau method was used and correlated with rains and monthly temperature. Extracts percentage of inhibition on DPPH radical was also estimated. Results showed that phenols content varied throughout one year, with February 2019 showing the highest concentration (18.41%), coinciding with a low rainfall and lower temperature period. On the other hand, antioxidant activity of extracts was 83.79%. It was concluded that temperature partially affects the total phenols concentration, while rains did not have significant effects; in addition, this study verifies the possibility of using I. pes-caprae as a low-cost source of substances with antioxidant activity and constitutes a basis for future research aimed at the evaluation and use of other Convolvulaceae species present in La Guajira.

The observed changes in the climate systems during the last decades have generated a growing popular concern, especially in the scientific world, which has led to a series of research on the causes and possible consequences of climate change. This is a topic of great interest worldwide, including in Mexico. The Altiplano Potosino Region, Mexico, is located in the northwestern part of the state of San Luis Potosi, Mexico, with an approximate area of 29 119 km2, with an annual rainfall lower than 400 mm and an annual average temperature of 17.5 °C. Groundwater is the main source of supply because surface runoff is limited. The objective of this study was to perform a time series analysis of the historical records of rainfall and temperature, at the meteorological stations located in the study region from the period 1975 to 2015, to identify spatial and temporal trends and patterns. For this, the non-parametric Mann-Kendall test was used. The results indicate both increased and decreasing trends in the annual and monthly periods for the variables analyzed. Trends suggest local behaviors. Monthly precipitation trends show increases in spring and summer, while they tend to decrease in autumn. Annual and monthly temperature trends show a greater variability spatial and temporal, where there are important annual variations because of the monthly changes; or there are monthly variations that are not yet reflected in an annual trend.

ABSTRACT This study proposes automating an air conditioning system for drying and storing agricultural products. The main objective is to precisely control key parameters of the air, namely temperature, relative humidity, and air velocity, to optimize the drying process. The framework required for constructing and operating the automated air conditioner is explained in detail. Specifically, we describe the conditioning unit, the automation hardware, the control strategies employed to regulate temperature, relative humidity, and air velocity, and discuss the safety measures and human-machine interfaces of the system. Experimental validation of the proposed system is presented, along with results and discussions demonstrating its successful control of drying air parameters across a wide range of desired conditions.

This document shows the implementation of a water conductivity measurement system with the special attribute of data transmission in real time through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth devices. For the development of the proposed work, an evolutionary methodology was used, which is developed phase by phase, with the possibility of returning to a previous phase to make the pertinent adjustments. Within the development, the KEYESTUDIO sonda measurement sensor TDS V1 sensor module with XH2.54-3 was used, which connects to the ESP8266 data acquisition card together with the DS18B20 temperature sensor, being the IoT platform and a LabVIEW® interface monitoring panels for transmitted data of electrical conductivity and temperature of the chosen environment. It is important to mention that the implemented system provides effective monitoring of water conductivity from a remote location, yielding reliable values, without user intervention in the chosen environment.

Background: Seed germination strategies are important for exotic species to identify the factors that control seed germination and establishment. Questions and /or Hypotheses: Temperature and light germination requirements for seeds of Calotropis procera do not change neither in its native regions nor in lands where it is exotic. Calotropis procera show germination traits that may increase their probability of colonization. Studied species: Calotropis procera is a perennial plant native to some desertic areas in Asia and Africa and now naturalized in America. Study site and dates: Mature fruits were collected in Oaxaca in September 2019 to test germination parameters. The last experiment was conducted in September 2021. Methods: We determined the effect of different temperatures, photoblastic response, and loss of viability of seeds kept at laboratory conditions for two years. We performed several sowings under controlled conditions and achieved germinability, t50 and the time to germinate. Results: Seeds were non-dormant, neutral photoblastic and did not lose viability after two years of dry storage. Temperature affected germinability and t50. Optimum germination temperature was 30 °C with no germination above 40 °C. Conclusions: Germination requirements of seeds of Calotropis procera studied were similar to those reported worldwide. Though seed germination was affected by maximum mean temperatures, seeds germinated fast and at high percentages under a wide range of temperatures, which together with other attributes, may confer C. procera great chances for successful colonization.

The impact of altitude on the different sugars and acids of the feijoa fruit is unknown. For that reason, the objective of this study was to evaluate the altitudinal effect on the content of organic acids (citric and malic) and sugars (glucose, fructose, and sucrose) during the development of feijoa fruits. The study took place in the towns of Tenjo (2,580 m asl with 12.3°C, 76.4% RH, 190mm precipitation) and San Francisco de Sales (1,800 m asl, with 18.5°C; 86.1% RH, 573 mm precipitation), located in Cundinamarca (Colombia). In the first locality (Tenjo), the fruits developed with 1,979 growth degree days (GDD) (180 days after anthesis (daa), while in the second locality (San Francisco), 2,728 GDD were required (155 daa). For organic acids, the predominant acid was citric. During the fruit development, the contents of these acids presented low values with a later irregular behavior, finally showing 14.21mg g-1 FW (fresh weight) at harvest for citric acid at San Francisco and 7.95mg g-1 FW at Tenjo. For malic acid, 9.14mg g-1 FW was recorded in San Francisco, and 6.88mg g-1 FW in Tenjo, with significant differences for citric acid between altitudes. The monosaccharides fructose and glucose increased during fruit development. However, the disaccharide sucrose showed a significant much higher content at 2,580 m asl (4.27mg g-1 FW) than at 1,800 m asl (1.03mg g-1 FW), for which it is concluded that the higher temperature in the low locality originated greater respiration and loss of sucrose in the fruit.

Climate change has been accelerating, and this has been causing an increase of the number of intensity of its impacts on communities, including on their health. This link between climate change and health, a theme that we have named “pathoclima” (a neologism of the authors), an amplification of pathologies due to the increasing impact of climate change on society and the environment, is the subject of this contribution. Firstly, we present an analysis of the state of the climate and its impact on some respiratory, neurodegenerative, and mental health diseases. Then, we discuss some of the main conclusions of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report, and finally, we suggest that only through a transdisciplinary approach can we achieve the goal of zero net emissions by 2050. Only following a transdisciplinary approach, we could address climate change taking into account also all biological and sociological aspects of the problem.

Ramie is a widely used plant fiber for making textiles and reinforcement in biodegradable composites. Pretreating cellulosic fibers with alkali before producing composites is increasingly used to enhance adhesion with polymeric resin. In this work, response surface methodology (RSM) based on the Box-Behnken technique was utilized to investigate the impact of independent variables on ramie fabric characteristics and determine the optimal treatment condition. The impact of alkali concentration, treatment time, and temperature on the breaking load and elongation at break of woven ramie fabrics were evaluated using Design-Expert software, which established the design matrix and analyzed the experimental data employing numerical and graphical optimization methods. Moreover, the impact of alkali treatment conditions on the surface morphology, structural change of ramie fabrics, and thermal properties was investigated. Based on the analysis of variance (ANOVA) results, the suggested quadratic models can adequately predict the breaking load and elongation at break of the ramie woven fabrics within the range of conditions applied in this investigation. The RSM revealed that an alkali concentration of 6.12%, a treatment time of 30 min, and a temperature of 39.13°C resulted in an optimum treatment condition with a breaking load of 518.28 N and elongation at break of 23.36%., (© 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Background: Prosthetic Joint Infections (PJI) are associated with significant morbidity and mortality, underscoring the importance of identifying the related risk factors. The objective of the present study was to evaluate whether environmental factors were correlated with an increase in PJI., Material and Method: Retrospective cohort study of 1847 consecutive hip and knee prosthesis surgeries performed at a single center over a 10-year period. All patients who underwent surgery during this period were included, with a minimum follow-up of 2 years. The association between infection cases and environmental temperature and humidity was analyzed for both the day of surgical intervention and the week following the procedure., Results: Sixty-three cases of infection (3.4%) were identified. No statistically significant differences were observed in the infection rate according to the month (p=0.13) or season (p=0.42) in which the surgery was performed. Furthermore, no significant association was found between the incidence of PJI and the average temperature or humidity on the day or week following the prosthesis implantation., Conclusions: Environmental temperature and humidity do not influence the incidence of PJI in regions with an oceanic climate. The increase in PJI according to environmental conditions is primarily observed in large-scale studies based on national registries., (Copyright © 2024 SECOT. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.)

El hormigón es el material estructural más empleado. En el caso de sufrir una agresión térmica, sus propiedades mecánicas se ven modificadas, siendo en muchos casos necesaria su reparación para poder seguir utilizando la estructura. Teniendo en cuenta las premisas anteriores, el objetivo de la presente investigación es determinar la viabilidad del refuerzo de estructuras de hormigón con CFRP, después de haber sido sometidas a una agresión térmica. Para la realización del trabajo experimental se fabricaron probetas cilíndricas de 100 mm de diámetro y 200 mm de altura, la mitad de las cuales fueron sometidas a 250ºC. Una vez enfriadas, la mitad de las probetas patrón y la mitad de las probetas sometidas a 250ºC se reforzaron con fibra de carbono unidireccional SikaWrap-230 C, para posteriormente ensayar todas ellas a compresión y determinar la viabilidad del refuerzo. Los resultados obtenidos muestran que, debido a la agresión térmica, el hormigón pierde parte de su capacidad resistente, reduciéndose su resistencia máxima en un 26%. Una vez reforzadas las probetas, su resistencia máxima aumenta un 105% en el caso de probetas patrón y un 89,5% en el caso del hormigón sometido a 250ºC. Abstract Concrete is the most widely used structural material. In the case of suffering a thermal aggression, its mechanical properties are modified, being in many cases necessary to repair in order to be able to continue using the structure. Taking into account the above premises, the aim of the present research is to determine the viability of reinforcement of concrete structures with CFRP, after being subjected to thermal aggression. For the realization of the experimental work, cylindrical specimens of 100 mm in diameter and 200 mm in height were made, half of which were subjected to 250ºC. Once cooled, half of the standard specimens and half of the specimens subjected to 250ºC were reinforced with SikaWrap-230 C unidirectional carbon fiber, in order to subsequently test all of them in compression and determine the viability of the reinforcement. The results obtained show that due to the thermal aggression, the concrete loses part of its resistance capacity, reducing its maximum resistance by 26%. Once the specimens are reinforced, their maximum strength increases by 105% in the case of standard specimens and by 89.5% in the case of concrete subjected to 250ºC.

This article focuses on the study of the behavior of electrical variables (Power, Voltage, Current) and the temperature incidence of a monocrystalline photovoltaic panel (PFV), installed on a wooden and drywall surface and another installed on standard surface (Cement), to contrast them, and obtain the behavior of these variables, in order to determine which of the two surfaces on which the monocrystalline photovoltaic panels are installed provides the greatest power. The methodological phase was advanced on the terrace of the Santander Technological Units, applying both scientific and comparative research methods, which, a prototype is designed for the measurement of the data by installing elements that constitute a photovoltaic solar system, and measuring instruments for capturing and taking data from the variables to be studied. Data capture is performed for 60 days, for subsequent comparative analysis of each of the electrical variables presented by THE PVFs. As results of this research, comparative graphs of the electrical and thermal behavior of the photovoltaic panels are obtained on the two installed surfaces. This article focuses on the study of the behavior of electrical variables (Power, Voltage, Current) and the temperature incidence of a monocrystalline photovoltaic panel (PFV), installed on a wooden and drywall surface and another installed on standard surface (Cement), to contrast them, and obtain the behavior of these variables, in order to determine which of the two surfaces on which the monocrystalline photovoltaic panels are installed provides the greatest power.

Background: Geographic distance promotes phenotypic variation by facilitating environmental distance, limiting gene flow, and exposing plants to different pollen vectors. Therefore, understanding how plant morphology changes across a geographic range improves our understanding of the drivers of morphological diversification both on a macro- and micro-evolutionary scale. Questions: 1) How do geographic location and abiotic factors affect flower morphology between populations? 2) Is there a geographic pattern of flower morphology variation? and 3) How does yearly variation in temperature and precipitation affect flower morphology within populations? Studied species: Penstemon albidus, P. fruticosus, P. glandulosus, P. speciosus, and P. whippleanus Study site and dates: The continental USA, summers of 2017 and 2018 Methods: Fifty-seven populations and 496 individuals were selected at random to measure ten floral traits. Bioclimatic variables were extracted from the WorldClim database and NOAA. Linear models, partial least squares regression, Mantel tests and canonical correlation analysis were used to analyze the data. Results: Geographic variables alone explained a significant portion of the variation in flower morphology in two species, while in others, flower morphology did not vary despite large geographic distances. Penstemon albidus and P. whippleanus flowers increase in size from south-north, while P. glandulosus and P. speciosus exhibited an east-west increasing trend. Additionally, mean annual precipitation was the most important variable influencing P. glandulosusflower morphology. Conclusions: Geographic distance facilitates isolation-by-distance and isolation-by-phenology as well as abiotic differences between populations; however, other factors such as pollinators might be keeping populations morphologically homogeneous despite large geographic distance.

Context: The poor storage practices in warehouses and pharmacies may lead to drug degradation. Aims: To analyze the Good Storage Practices for medicines in the warehouse and pharmacies of the Hospital Escuela of Tegucigalpa, Honduras. Methods: A mixed research was carried out using a qualitative-quantitative approach, non-experimental design, and descriptive cross-sectional scope. Semi-structured interviews were applied to warehouse and pharmacy staff using an instrument with dichotomous responses and a box for recording observations during visits. The facilities, storage, equipment, documentation, internal distribution, and the responsible staff in the warehouse and pharmacies were evaluated. Results: Giving the compliance percentages obtained were the following: facilities, 37%; storage, 59%; equipment, 42%; documentation, 63%; internal distribution, 61%; staff, 53%. Further, 77% of the areas where medicines were stored that did not need refrigeration were found within the permitted ranges of temperature and percentage of relative humidity. On the other hand, 85.71% of temperature measurements in refrigeration equipment were reported outside the permitted range. However, no drugs stored were found to be at risk of frostbite during the study. Conclusions: The Good Storage Practices at Hospital Escuela should be strengthened to reach a maximum level of compliance. Likewise, the processes of handling, conservation of the cold chain, and preservation of the medicine should be improved until it is dispensed to the patient.

One of the main assumptions of Janzen’s mountain passes hypothesis is that due the low overlap in temperature regimes between low and high elevations in the tropics, organisms living in high-altitude evolve narrow tolerance for colder temperatures while low-altitude species develop narrow tolerance for warmer temperatures. Some studies have questioned the generality of the assumptions and predictions of this hypothesis suggesting that other factors different to temperature gradients between low and high elevations may explain altitudinal distribution of species in the tropics. In this study we test some predictions of the Janzen’s hypothesis at local scales through the analysis of the individual thermal niche breadth in populations of livebearing fishes of the genus Limia and its relationship with their altitudinal distribution in some islands of the Greater Antilles. We assessed variation in tolerance to extreme temperatures (measured as critical thermal minimum (CTmin) and maximum (CTmax) and compared thermal breadth for populations of eight species of Limia occurring in three Caribbean islands and that occupy different altitudinal distribution. Our results showed that species analyzed had significant differences in thermal limits and ranges. Generally, species distributed in high and low elevations did not differ in thermal limits and showed a wider range of thermal tolerance. However, species living in mid-elevations had narrower range of temperature tolerance. We found no significant effect of phylogeny on CTmin, CTmax and thermal ranges among species. This study did not provide evidence supporting Janzen’s hypothesis at a local scale since thermal tolerance and altitudinal distribution of Limia species were not related to temperature gradients expected in nature. Phylogeny also did not explain the patterns we observed. We suggest that biotic factors such as species interactions, diet specializations, and others should be considered when interpreting current distribution patterns of Limia species.

ABSTRACT Temperature variation in egg incubation can negatively affect the hatching time and weight gain of chicks, hence improving the incubator temperature accuracy can improve hatching rates. Controllers based on the fuzzy methodology have shown great potential for use in controlling incubator temperature variations. Therefore, the objective of this study is to develop and evaluate a fuzzy logic-based controller for egg incubation. Four identical incubators were configured: two with a fuzzy controller and two with a conventional controller. After evaluation and validation, a case study of the incubating eggs of free-range chickens was conducted on where 12 incubation cycles consisting of 20 eggs per incubator. The variables obtained include hatchability and electricity consumption. The results showed that the fuzzy logic-based controller maintained uniform internal temperature and a 10.68% saving on electricity usage when compared with the conventional controller. Thus, the fuzzy methodology has great potential for use in the incubation of free-range eggs.

The varved sediments of the Pyrenean Lake Montcortès (Pallars Sobirà, Lleida) embody a unique continuous high-resolution (annual) paleoarchive of the last 3000 years for the circum-Mediterranean region. A variety of paleoclimatic and paleoecological records have been retrieved from these uncommon sediments that have turned the lake into a regional reference. Present-day geographical, geological, ecological and limnological features of the lake and its surroundings are reasonably well known but the lack of a local weather station has prevented characterization of current climate, which is important to develop modern-analog studies for paleoclimatic reconstruction and to forecast the potential impacts of future global warming. Here, the local climate of the Montcortès area for the period 1955-2020 is characterized using a network of nearby stations situated along an elevational transect in the same river basin of the lake. The finding of statistically significant elevational gradients for average temperature and precipitation (-0.59 °C and 82 mm per 100 m elevation, respectively) has enabled to estimate these parameters and their seasonal regime for the lake site. The estimated average annual temperature is 9.7±0.8 °C and the estimated total annual precipitation is 1031±34 mm, in average. A representative climograph has been shaped with these data that can serve as a synthetic descriptive and comparative climatic tool. The same analysis has provided climatic data for modern-analog studies useful to improve the interpretation of sedimentary records in climatic and ecological terms. In addition, the seasonal slope shifting of the climatic elevational gradients has been useful to gain insights about possible future climatic trends under a warming scenario

Introduction: The implementation of green roofs in buildings has become increasingly common, because it is an ecological construction alternative that provides great benefits, which range from reducing air pollution to improving air conditioning inside of the buildings. Objective: This article aims to evaluate whether extensive green roofs are an energy-valuable option in a tropical climate compared to a thermoacoustic, clay tile, and concrete roof. Methodology: An experimental study was carried out in summer (December) in a tropical climate, where the internal temperature of two identical small buildings was compared except for the roof type. Both small buildings were built with a low construction standard according to buildings of families with low income in this region. Data of internal temperatures and other climatic conditions were analyzed to compare the influence of the roof type on the inner shelter temperature. Results: In these experiments, the average inner shelter temperature of green roofs was lower than the same temperature for thermoacoustic, clay tile and concrete roof and resulted in average temperature differences of 1.8 °C, 0.9 °C and 1.5 °C, respectively (depending on environmental conditions). Conclusions: It was possible to show that the green roof has a greater thermal inertia compared to the others. However, the temperature difference between the green roof and the other roof types was in the same range as in studies conducted in other climatic regions, therefore no special benefit of the green roof has been derived in a warm-tropical climate in this study. However, the low building standard can be of great interest for a final evaluation and the authors recommend to conduct further studies.

Abstract Objective: This paper aims to conduct a study of the speed of sound in Colombia for heights below the troposphere, taking into account the temperature as a function of altitude for a tropical zone, in order to determine the distance of lightning strike. Methodology: A speed of sound profile for Colombia was determined by analyzing data on altitude, temperature, and relative humidity in the country. The temperature equation as a function of altitude presented by NASA and the International Standard Atmosphere was taken into account to compare with the data obtained from meteorological stations located in different parts of the country (this stations measure information of temperature and other physical variables). Additionally, a sound profile map of Colombia was obtained using the interpolation in ArcGIS software. Results: A map of the speed of sound in Colombia was obtained, thus finding the speed range in the country. Likewise, the temperature was determined as function of the altitude for Colombia (a country in the tropical zone), with which it is possible to have data closer to the real speed of sound in the place and determinate the distance of impact of a lighting in land. Conclusions: The study of variables such as temperature, relative humidity, and altitude helped determine the speed of sound for Colombia. It was also possible to define a temperature equation as a function of altitude for a tropical country; with the speed of sound, the radius of impact of a lightning can be found.

For shelf-life prolongation, the effect of super-chilling (SC, −1.5 °C) combined with food antistaling agents (FAAs) on the chemical and microbiological proprieties of chicken breast were investigated. The results showed a significant difference (P < .05) in protein solubility in the chicken breast stored under SC plus FAA for 8 and 16 days compared with 4 °C storage; dynamic rheological analysis revealed that they had better gel characteristics than those under SC or 4 °C storage. Moreover, SC with FAA significantly decreased the chicken breast pH, total viable count, total volatile basic nitrogen and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance contents, and electrical conductivity (P < .01), and significantly increased the water-holding capacity (P < .01). Conclusively, SC plus FAA storage is recommended for meat and meat products because of its effectiveness at preserving the quality of fresh chicken meat, providing longer shelf lives than chicken under SC or 4 °C storage.

The effects of temperature on the expansion behavior of concrete due to the alkali-silica reaction (ASR) were assessed through a simplified numerical analysis. Numerical models were constructed based on findings from a literature review. A simplified damage model was implemented to capture interactions between the viscoelasticity of the ASR gel and microstructural damage of the aggregate and paste. The parameters of the damage model were identified by fitting the simulated results to the experimental data. The results indicate that for a given reaction ratio, expansion ability is reduced at higher temperatures during the early and late stages of expansion. The results demonstrate that explicit modeling of chemo-mechanical interactions is important to achieve accurate numerical predictions of expansion behavior.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of the milking method, the storage conditions and the SCC (Somatic Cell Count) increase on the quality of raw milk. Monthly evaluations were performed out over a year in 21 tanks by monitoring the refrigeration temperature and the storage time of the milk in the tank. The tanks were grouped into three temperature levels. Milk storage time intervals were established in each tank: up to 24 h of storage; between 24 and 48 h; and above 48 h. The effect of SCC on the composition was evaluated in three categories: Low SCC; Medium SCC; High SCC. In the analyzed period, 10.8 % presented low SCC, followed by 46.5 % with medium SCC, while 42.7 % had high SCC. There was a positive correlation between SCC and protein, and a negative correlation between SCC and lactose. It is concluded that the milking method does not influence the microbial contamination of the milk; however, longer storage time and increased temperature influenced an increase in microorganism counts in milk. In evaluating the hygienic/sanitary quality of the milk, 42.7 % had high SCC and the total bacterial counts presented values above the values recommended by legislation.

Cerotoma tingomariana (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), is one of the major pests that affect soybean crops, which can signi cantly reduce crop yield. e use of entomopathogenic fungi (EPF), an alternative method of control, has come into the prominence. To contribute in the management of the pest, the objective of this study was to select and characterize an entomopathogenic fungus by high efficacy and tolerance to temperature, pH and UV-B radiation. Ten fungal isolates of the fungus Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium spp. were tested against C. tingomariana under laboratory conditions. Bv003 and Bv060 isolates were selected with mean values of LC 50 were 5.6 x 10 4 and 5.8 x 10 5 conidia/mL, respectively. Bv003 was 10,4 times more virulent than Bv060. At greenhouse condition, efficacies 54.5 % and 79.5 % were obtained with the application of LC 90 to adults of C. tingomariana, respectively. Both isolates had an optimal growth at pH range of 5-7, in contrast, the fungal growth was inhibited at temperatures above 30 °C and by exposure to UV-B radiation above 18,8 minutes. Finally, the isolate Bv003 was selected as a microorganism with the potential to be used as biopesticide for the control of C. tingomariana in soybean crops.

The irruption of COVID-19 has led to a multitude of deep-seated transformations, which go beyond the purely sanitary sphere, leading to major socio-economic changes, among which the evolution of traditional forms of administrative intervention or the empowerment and/or acceleration of the advances derived from the digital (re)volution stand out for their extraordinary importance. Thereby, in recent months we have witnessed the implementation of numerous initiatives aimed to alleviate the harmful effects of the pandemic by developing technological tools based on processing categories of specially protected personal data, such as health data, which raises important questions from the perspective of privacy and digital rights. The aim of this study is to carry out a detailed analysis of some essential elements, necessary to achieve the difficult balance between the promotion of technological instruments that contribute to control the effects of COVID-19 increasing the resources available to health authorities, and safeguarding the fundamental right of personal data protection.

In this document, the variation of temperature and radiation in a 100 kW photovoltaic assembly is connected to a 25 kV network through a DC-DC booster converter and a three-phase three-phase voltage source converter (VSC). Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) is implemented in the elevator converter using a Simulink® model that uses the technique of 'Incremental Conductance + Integral Regulator'. The switching duty cycle is optimized by an MPPT controller that uses the technique of 'Incremental Conductance + Integral Regulator'. This MPPT system automatically modifies the duty cycle to generate the voltage required to extract the maximum power.

The fabrication and use of compost are accepted thoroughly as a sustainable practice. In the "UCTB Soils Cienfuegos", Cuba, a research was carried out with the objective of evaluating the composting process starting from different combinations of plant residues with the addition of a microbial inoculant. A complete randomized block design with five treatments, and three replicates was used. The temperature was measured during the whole process, the decomposition and the chemical composition of the obtained compost was determined. Temperature maintained, indistinctly, for all treatments the sequence of the phases: Mesophyll, Thermophile and Mesophyll II, with a duration of the composting process between 105-110 days, and a percentage of decomposition of 78,2%, 84,6% and 88,6% respectively in the treatments 1, 2 and 3. In treatments 4 and 5, the duration of the process extended between 135-140 days, with a decomposition of 68% and 69,4% respectively, without effect on the decomposition level. The results allow to conclude that all compost types obtained are viable for use provided based on compost properties. Treatment 3 showed the lergest nitrogen value (1,55%), potassium (1,87%), organic matter (62,8%), phosphorus content of 0,53%, carbon/nitrogen (C/N) rate 23,29 and the highest percentage of decomposition.

In this study, a fuzzy-based PLC temperature control system was designed and implemented on a craft beer production plant. At present, the temperature-related controls of small-scale plants in Colombia are based on On/Off models, which are not very stable in the preparation of craft beer, which generates significant changes in flavor, scent and texture. Therefore, it is intended to incorporate into the craft beer industry, solutions that guarantee repeatability, minimize costs and potentiate production, for this, a three-stage fuzzy control model is carried out: design, implementation and start up; This is how a study of the plant´s dynamics is carried out, the response is determined from the data, a fuzzy controller is designed by using Matlab software, and a graphical interface in LabView for data capture and storage. The controller demonstrates stability in relation to the temperature variable, which provides repeatability and significant energy savings. Finally, it is concluded that the controller proved to be robust against major disturbances and stable at different temperatures, being a useful tool for efficiently controlling the variable.

Excavated archaeological sites are frequently exposed to damaging environmental conditions, which could lead to rapid decay especially for vulnerable heritage such as mosaics. One of the most common solutions is the construction of shelters; however, some may not behave as expected, either because they do not protect adequately or induce decay. An environmental monitoring programme was undertaken inside and outside the two types of shelters at the Roman archaeological site of Complutum (Alcala de Henares, Spain) from May to September in 2018 and 2019. Hourly temperature and relative humidity readings collected by data loggers, together with rainfall data from a local meteorological station, have been comparatively assessed to better understand the consequences of sheltering in dry and warm areas. The results indicate that both shelters are avoiding further decay by keeping a more stable environment in relation to outside, although the more enclosed structure would be the most suitable one.

Physical properties of Sukkari date powder (SDP) at different particle sizes, namely, moisture content, water activity, tapped and bulk densities, compressibility index, Hausner ratio, water absorption, and solubility indices, swelling capacity, and color parameters were experimentally determined. The SDP moisture sorption experiments were conducted using a dynamic vapor sorption instrument in the relative humidity range 10%–90% at 20, 40, and 60°C. Among the ten tested sorption models, the GAB and modified GAB models best fitted SDP sorption data. The monolayer moisture content decreased with increasing temperature. The differential enthalpy and entropy, and net integral enthalpy and entropy decreased consistently with increasing moisture content. The linear relationship between differential enthalpy and entropy confirmed the applicability of the compensation theory. The estimated values of the isokinetic and harmonic temperatures and the Gibbs free energy change revealed that the sorption process is non-spontaneous and enthalpy driven.

The interaction forces, attraction (suspension) and repulsion (levitation) between a permanent magnet and diferent bulk Yttrium-based superconductors were carried out with an automatic system developed in our group, which is reproducible, reliable and low cost. Two superconducting samples of YBa2Cu3O7-δ (YBCO) prepared by solid-state reaction method (S) and by the melt-textured growth method (MTG) were used. Both samples were characterized by XRD technique and presented the characteristic peaks and intensity relations of the YBCO-123 superconducting phase. Oxygen deficiencies δ > 0,15 and δ < 0,10 for the S and MTG samples respectively, were observed. Both samples displayed diferent hysteresis behavior in the Force (F) vs. Distance (z) measurements when they were field cooled (FC) and zero field cooled (ZFC). This behavior agrees with hysteresis loops observed in magnetization measurements. Both levitation and suspension phenomena were observed in the MTG sample with large hysteresis loops of the force. On the contrary, the S sample with small hysteresis loops did not show a suspension force, only displayed a slight levitation force.

The Mexican Central Pacific (MCP) has complex oceanographic dynamics, with a well-defined seasonal pattern and influence of interannual sea surface temperature anomalies. The present study investigated the relationship between the distribution/abundance of spotted dolphins and the environmental conditions in the MCP. Dolphin sighting data were collected during January 2010–December 2015; distance to coast, sea surface temperature, and chlorophyll a (Chla) were obtained for each sighting location through georeferenced maps and satellite images. A total of 746 spotted dolphin sightings were obtained with a survey effort of 31,695 km. Spotted dolphins in the MCP showed a predominantly coastal distribution regardless of environmental conditions. Significant differences were detected concerning regional seasonal variation, with higher mean sighting rate during the stratified periods and higher density/abundance estimates during the mixed periods. Spotted dolphins showed preference for warmer conditions, with higher mean sighting rate, abundance, and distance to coast during the neutral and warm interannual periods. During the coolest conditions (cold periods), mean sighting rate and abundance decreased and spotted dolphins were located closer to the coast, where Chla concentration increased. These results suggest that changes in the distribution/abundance of these dolphins could be associated with habitat quality related to tropical (El Niño/Southern Oscillation) and extratropical (The Blob) oceanographic phenomena, which could be modulating their foraging activities.

The addition of inorganic expanded aggregates, such as perlite or vermiculite is well known in gypsum plasters. However, the reuse of organic wastes in coatings like plasters and renders has been poorly studied. This paper shows the effect of tire rubber wastes on the mechanical properties and fire performance of gypsum plasters. The rubber waste was added to the mixture in mass percentages of 14.50% (C1) and 46.60% (C2). Flexural and compressive strength of plasters made with rubber wastes was visibly reduced as well as their surface hardness (Shore C). In addition, fire tests produced major damages through the entire 2 cm thickness of samples containing rubber wastes, as it was corroborated by X ray diffraction (XRD) and Thermogravimetric (TG) analysis. The heat transfer due to fire exposure modified considerably the chemical composition of plasters, since, on the non-exposed face to fire, the amount of gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O) equivalent to mass loss obtained by TG due to water released by these plasters made with rubber wastes, was 5.4-7.2 lower than that of conventional plasters. The results suggest that certain wastes may reduce the efficiency of gypsum plasters in protecting underneath construction and structural elements against fire.

Background. Moringa oleifera Lam. It is a species native to India with an excellent capacity for acclimatization and is distributed in tropical, subtropical, and semi-arid climates. This plant is of economic importance due to its nutritional content and uses food, forage, medicinal and industrial. All plant parts can be used, but the leaves are characterized by their high nutritional content and low antinutritional compounds. Significant variation in the nutritional content of the leaves has been identified, and, therefore, a generalization or recommendation about their nutritional content is impossible. Objective. To identify the environmental and management factors that influence the nutritional content of M. oleifera leaves. Methodology. A bibliographic review on M. oleifera present in the databases of Scopus, NCBI, Science direct, and other repositories was carried out. The keywords for the search were: M. oleifera, chemical composition, nutritional content, environmental factors, phenology, agronomic management, postharvest management, type of dehydration, and methods of analysis. Results. The results obtained show that genetic, edaphoclimatic, agronomic, phenological factors, postharvest handling, type of dehydration, storage before and after dehydration, and type of analysis influence the nutritional content of moringa leaves. Implications. Identifying the factors and processes that affect the nutritional content allows a better understanding of the chemical content of moringa leaves under specific conditions. Conclusions. Fertilization is the factor that most influences the protein content when agronomic management is carried out. Temperature and dehydration type are the factors that showed the most significant influence on the decrease in the nutritional content of the leaves in postharvest management.

Objective: To evaluate the physicochemical properties of an extruded feed using bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) as a soymeal substitute and to perform pig growth trials, evaluating nitrogen digestibility. Materials and methods: This research was divided into two stages, the first one consisted on the standardization of the extruded feed, where two formulations of bean flour (Pinto Saltillo variety), cornflour (Cafime variety), and soybean meal were evaluated: 20/67/13% and 30/60/10%, respectively. Samples were processed in a single screw extruder at 120-150°C and moisture content of 18-22%. Evaluated physicochemical properties were: expansion index, bulk density, water absorption index, water solubility index, hardness, water activity and color parameters: L*(clarity), a*(red-green chromaticity) and b* (yellow/blue chromaticity). In the second stage, the in vitro dry matter digestibility and fecal apparent digestibility were evaluated using the optimal treatment obtained from stage 1. Results: Optimal conditions for the 20% of bean flour formulation were: Temperature of 124.4°C and moisture content of 18.59%. Extrusion temperature decreased bulk density, hardness, and water activity, but increased L* and expansion index. Moisture content decreased bulk density, water activity, hardness, and a*. In vitro dry matter digestibility was higher for the extruded bean diet in comparison to the control diet (92.33% vs. 85.33%). Conclusions: Results indicated that bean flour is a viable option for animal consumption in terms of nutritional value and good digestibility.

ABSTRACT Objective: We aimed to determine the effect of different low-temperature range interventions at different time-points in a rat model of pressure injury (PI) produced by Ischemia/Reperfusion (I/R) injury. Methods: Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to blank control, injury control, and temperature intervention groups. Rats in the injury control and temperature intervention groups (involving exposure to different temperature range at different time-points) were subjected to three cycles of I/R injury with 2-h ischemia and 0.5-h reperfusion to induce PI. Results: The muscle tissues exhibited degenerative changes after compression. Low temperature intervention of 16–18°C in the ischemia period resulted in the lowest degree of tissue damage and significantly decreased levels of Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), caspase-9, and caspase-3. Moreover, it resulted in the highest expression level of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) and lowest expression levels of Bax, caspase-9, and caspase-3 in muscle tissues among all intervention groups. Conclusion: Low-temperature intervention at 16–18°C during the ischemia period showed optimal effects on the expressions of apoptotic factors during the development of PI with I/R-induced tissue damage.

Abstract Drying is one of the stages of coffee processing and has been considered one of the factors that impact the quality of the final drink. In this sense, the present study developed a phenomenological model for a box-type dryer implementing in C / C ++ programming language. The profile of the exhaust air temperature was obtained over the drying time. The model was verified by comparing data obtained from the literature, thus guaranteeing its functionality to make predictions about the air temperature profile in equipment used by small coffee producers, which may contribute to the increase in product quality.

Mimosa ephedroides is an endemic shrub from western Argentina. The knowledge of the germination response of this species to different environmental factors contribute to its efficient use in ecological restoration projects. This study aimed to examine aspects of seed quality, seed dormancy, and the effect of temperature, water and saline stress on the germination of this species. Also, the effect of seed storage time on the viability and the percentage of germinated seeds were evaluated. Experiments were carried out in controlled growth chambers. Germination percentage and mean germination time were calculated. It was found that this species has non-dormant seeds. Concerning abiotic factors, the optimum temperature for germination ranged from 20 to 30 ºC, it presented high germination percentages even at moderate and severe water stress (-1.12 MPa), and the germination percentages decreased with increasing salinity levels from 300 mM NaCl. In short periods (up to 36 months), seed storage at room temperature (18ºC) was adequate, not affecting the viability and the germination power of the seeds. These results constitute a contribution to the knowledge of the autecological aspects of this endemic species, support its incorporation for restoration projects, and aid to an efficient use of native seeds for direct seeding or seedling production. Highlights Mimosa ephedroides seeds are non- dormant, show high viability and rapid germination (>24 h). This shrub is able to germinate in a wide range of temperatures and under moderate and severe water stress. High salinity levels (

Natural colorants have become important due to the health-benefits for humans. In that sense, it is important to evaluate the degradation kinetics of these components, in order to establish the stability under different processing and/or storage conditions. This study provides experimental and simulated results about the degradation of betalains in microencapsulated beetroot juice. Maltodextrin solution (MDX 10%) and sweet potato starch solution (SPS 2%) in proportions of 40MDX:60SPS, 20MDX:80SPS and 0MDX:100SPS were used as microencapsulating agents. The thermal degradation of betalains in the microencapsulated powders was evaluated at three temperatures (6, 19 and 30 °C) in order to predict the behavior under different conditions, using the first-order kinetic model. The kinetic parameters were identified using linear regression on the logarithmic curves of the experimental data to obtain the Arrhenius equations. The highest content of betalains was 2.58 mg/g and the lowest activation energy value was 48.71 KJ/mol, with both values corresponding to the powder that was microencapsulated with 20MDX:80SPS. The above results suggest high betalain stability in this powder, since there was less sensitivity to temperature in comparison to the rest of the powders. Additionally, some thermodynamic parameters were evaluated, which confirmed that the process is non-spontaneous and irreversible. The results obtained from this study, could be a useful tool to predict the minimal losses during processing, and gives the possibility to improve and select the food products where this kind of natural colorant can be applied.

ABSTRACT Knowledge on sorption isotherms is important for predicting drying and storage processes of a product. A sorption isotherm can be generated from two processes: desorption and adsorption. The lag between these two curves is called hysteresis. Static method was used to obtain the equilibrium moisture content of paddy rice grains, in different temperature (10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 ± 1°C) and relative humidity (between 11 and 76% ± 2%) conditions. Equilibrium moisture content data were correlated with eight mathematical models and. The Chung Pfost model had the best fit to the experimental data. Desorption and adsorption isotherms, represented by the Chung Pfost model, showed a sigmoidal shape, characteristic of type II curve. Equilibrium moisture content values obtained by desorption were higher than those obtained by adsorption, evidencing the hysteresis phenomenon.

Braking systems are undoubtedly the most important component for road safety, since it determines the total or partial stop of a vehicle and, therefore, guarantees the physical integrity of passengers. Normally, the front brake discs and the remaining percentage absorb 70% of the kinetic energy produced within a vehicle by the rear brake discs, which tend to have the formof a drum brake. These systems benefit from friction to stop a moving vehicle, under the umbrella of hydraulic pressure that pushes the brake pads against the iron-cast disk. In this document, concepts of famous authors around the world on analysis and evaluation of brake discs are provided, which are carried out using a descriptive methodology and an estimation of the characteristics of the brake disc. The review is carried out in computer assisted design through several existing CAD software in the industry, as the main methodology applied to the development of certain research projects, where different geometric characteristics of the brake discs are considered, as well as problems related to wear and corrosion. This research project has shown that it is vital to incorporate existing computer assisted design software to predict performance, improve components and optimize the functionality of the brake system. In this way, road traffic safety and systems efficiency are achieved, which are a matter of great importance for the industry. It is vital to analyze brake systems through Finite Element Analysis (FEA), with the intention of achieving a broader vision of its performance, since the information collected reveals that the geometric characteristics of the brake and cooling ducts influence the heat dissipation. It depends on the form, the type of material and the application, the heat generated between the pad and the brake. Therefore, the heat is dissipated rapidly according to the analysis performed mathematically by the researchers, which are compared with the made in computer assisted design software.