Seeking a viable alternative to fossil fuels as the primary energy source, bioethanol has emerged as a promising second-generation fuel derived from lignocellulosic biomass. With Brazil ranking pineapple as the third most produced fruit in temporary crops, this study aims to assess the impact of chemical pretreatment techniques, specifically organosolv and diluted acid, on the residual biomass of Pérola pineapple peel to enhance bioethanol production. Employing an experimental design that incorporates temperature, reaction time, and varying concentrations of organic solvent, the study examines their effects on the susceptibility of the substrate to saccharification for future bioethanol generation. Factors such as alphacellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin were evaluated in triplicate and subjected to statistical analysis using the Tukey test with a confidence level of 95%. Upon application of the pretreatment methods, it was observed that the organosolv solvent approach (utilizing water and ethanol) with sulfuric acid exhibited superior sugar conversion, yielding the highest concentration of xylose at 9.13 g L-1. Additionally, the pretreated biomass contained 1.38 g L 1 of cellobiose, 3.11 g L-1 of arabinose, and 3.76 g L-1 of glucose. This technique demonstrates promising potential for obtaining fermentable sugars crucial for bioethanol production. source secondgeneration second generation crops techniques production temperature time alphacellulose hemicellulose 95 95% methods utilizing ethanol conversion 913 9 13 9.1 L1. L1 1. Additionally 138 38 1.3 cellobiose 311 3 11 3.1 L- arabinose 376 76 3.7 glucose 91 9. 31 3. 37 7

The acetalization or transacetalization reactions produce acetals or ketals used in cosmetics, food, pharmaceuticals, and fuel additives. Besides synthesizing several products, the acetalization or transacetalization reactions can protect carbonyl groups, 1,2 and 1,3-diols in multi-step synthesis. This work studies the transacetalization of glycerol with 2,2-dimethoxypropane (2,2-DMP) to yield 2,2-dimethyl-4-hydroxymethyl-1,3-dioxolane (solketal) by catalyzing with USY, HBeta, and HZSM-5 zeolites under cleaner and mild reaction conditions (reaction temperature: 25 °C; 2,2-DMP/glycerol molar ratio: 1; reaction time: 1 h; and catalyst concentration: 0.05-5 wt.%). For catalyst concentration equal to or greater than 2,5 wt.%, glycerol conversion stabilized near 96-97% for the three zeolites tested. The product selectivities also assume a constant value, close to 97% for solketal. For the lowest concentration of catalyst, the influence of the zeolite properties on the glycerol conversion, such as acidity and the strong/weak acid site ratio, was observed. Concerning the selectivity of the products, the results suggested that it can be based on zeolite topology, active sites at the particle surface, and the relative amount of micro and mesoporous HBeta, the most selective catalyst for acetals production, was reused at least once without loss of activity and selectivity. cosmetics food pharmaceuticals additives products groups 12 2 1, 1,3diols 13diols diols 1,3 3 multistep multi step synthesis 2,2dimethoxypropane 22dimethoxypropane dimethoxypropane 2,2 2,2DMP 22DMP DMP (2,2-DMP 2,2dimethyl4hydroxymethyl1,3dioxolane 22dimethyl4hydroxymethyl13dioxolane dimethylhydroxymethyldioxolane dimethyl 4 hydroxymethyl dioxolane solketal (solketal USY HBeta HZSM5 HZSM 5 HZSM- temperature °C C 2,2DMP/glycerol 22DMPglycerol DMPglycerol DMP/glycerol ratio time h 0.055 0055 0.05 0 05 0.05- wt.%. wt wt.% . wt.%) 2, 9697% 9697 96 97 96-97 tested value strongweak strong weak observed topology surface production 3diols 13 2dimethoxypropane 22 2DMP 2dimethyl4hydroxymethyl1 3dioxolane 055 005 0.0 wt. 969 9 96-9 dimethylhydroxymethyl 2dimethyl4hydroxymethyl 00 0. 96-

ABSTRACT The correct use of tyres on agricultural tractors, in respect of the terrain and the type and internal pressure of the tyre, are factors that influence the performance of the tractor. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the operating performance of an agricultural tractor fitted with two types of traction device (radial and diagonal tyres) at different pressures, and operating on soil with two levels of moisture. The experiment was conducted on a dystrophic Red Yellow Argisol, with tests to evaluate the performance of the tyres under specific working conditions. Tractive power and tractive force, wheel slip and fuel consumption were evaluated. For each of the conditions under evaluation, the radial configuration showed better performance than the diagonal configuration, the effect being more significant at the lower pressure and under low soil moisture. The use of radial tyres led to an increase in traction capacity and drawbar power, with a reduction in fuel consumption, especially at higher slip rates. tractors tyre pressures moisture Argisol force evaluated evaluation rates

Abstract Introduction: Spills of flammable liquids can lead to serious accidents, mainly in industrial plants and on roads. To prevent the spread of spills, various forms of collection are used, such as absorption with porous solids. Agroindustrial waste can be used as sorbent materials for flammable liquids. Objective: To determine the sorption capacity of the residual empty-fruit bunch of oil-palm (Elaeis guineensis) and the macaw palm (Acrocomia sp.) nutshell for four organic flammable liquids. Methods: The residual biomasses of E. guineensis and Acrocomia sp. were assessed as sorbents for spilled fuels (diesel, jet fuel, commercial kerosene, and gasoline). Volumetric measurement of liquid-fuel absorption at 24 ºC was taken during a week. Desorption was measured at 50 ºC as the drying kinetics, by using moisture scales. Results: The sorption capacity of the Acrocomia sp. material was not satisfactory, compared to the E. guineensis residual material, due to differences in the residual architecture of the organic material. This last can absorb 2.4 ± 0.2 cm3 g-1 at 24 ºC, during a one-week period. Diatomite absorbs greater quantities of the organic liquids but, the fluids diffusion at 50 ºC is 0.26 ± 0.09 times more slowly in the mineral matrix, because of the greater pore tortuosity in this mineral matrix. Conclusions: The oil-palm empty fruit bunch of E. guineensis, showed lesser but adequate performance than the sorbing behavior for fire hazard mitigation of diatomite. The nutshell of macaw palm (Acrocomia sp.) did not prove to be useful for this recovery operation.

Resumen Introducción: Los vertidos de líquidos inflamables pueden producir accidentes graves, principalmente en plantas industriales y en carretera. Para prevenir la dispersión de derrames, se utilizan diversas formas de recolecta, como la absorción con sólidos porosos. Residuos agroindustriales pueden ser aprovechados como materiales sorbentes de líquidos inflamables. Objetivo: Determinar la capacidad de absorción de las biomasas residuales del pedúnculo de la palma aceitera (Elaeis guineensis) y del endocarpio del fruto de coyol (Acrocomia sp.) para cuatro líquidos orgánicos inflamables. Métodos: Las biomasas residuales de E. guineensis y de Acrocomia sp. se evaluaron como sorbentes para combustibles derramados (diésel, queroseno de aviación, queroseno comercial y gasolina). Se midió la cantidad de líquido absorbida por las biomasas a 24 ºC durante una semana, y su cinética de desorción a 50 ºC, usando balanzas de secado. Resultados: La propiedad sorbente del material de Acrocomia sp. no fue satisfactoria, comparada con el pedúnculo de E. guineensis, debido a diferencias en arquitectura residual del material orgánico. Esta última biomasa muestra una capacidad de absorción para los combustibles de 2.4 ± 0.2 cm3 g-1 a 24 ºC. La diatomita absorbe mayor cantidad de los combustibles estudiados, pero la difusión de estos fluidos a 50 ºC por la matriz mineral es solo 0.26 ± 0.09 veces lo observado para el material de E. guineensis, como resultado del mayor grado de tortuosidad de los poros de la diatomita. Conclusiones: El pedúnculo de palma aceitera (E. guineensis) mostró un adecuado potencial desempeño para la aplicación pasiva en la mitigación de los riesgos de incendio, con respecto a la diatomita. El endocarpio del fruto de Acrocomia sp. no resultó útil para esta operación de recuperación.

ABSTRACT The production process of non-centrifuged cane sugar (NCS) involves a significant release of steam and heat due to the evaporation of cane juices in saucepans over a solid fuel oven. This results in a warm and moisture-saturated environment, which can be suffocating for workers. This study aimed to evaluate the bioclimatic behavior of an NCS processing facility, based on the wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) index. In addition, solutions are suggested to mitigate possible adverse effects of heat stress. This evaluation utilized computational simulations to determine the thermal comfort perceived by the workers. The accuracy of simulations was verified against temperature and relative air humidity data collected from the facility. Bioclimatic simulations encompassed twelve treatments, involving modifications to the enclosure on the walls and lantern window, incorporating three types of roof material. The WBGT index was determined by considering the effects of the radiant heat generated by the oven and the natural ventilation area on the facility’s temperature and relative air humidity. This helps to assess the comfort experienced by the workers. The thermal zone of the oven presented heat stress conditions; therefore, rest periods and mechanical ventilation were suggested when dissipating heat and steam through natural ventilation is not possible. For workers exposed to high temperatures and thermal radiation, the use of an aluminized apron and infrared goggles for eye protection was recommended. noncentrifuged non centrifuged (NCS moisturesaturated moisture saturated environment facility (WBGT addition treatments window material facilitys s conditions therefore radiation recommended

RESUMO O processo de produção de rapadura gera alta concentração de vapor e calor devido à evaporação do caldo da cana em panelas sobre forno a combustível sólido. Isso gera um ambiente quente e saturado de umidade que pode ser sufocante para os trabalhadores. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar as condições ambientais de uma instalação de processamento de rapadura, com base no Índice de Bulbo Úmido e Temperatura de Globo (IBUTG) e sugerir soluções para mitigar possíveis efeitos adversos do estresse térmico. Esta avaliação utilizou simulação computacional para determinar o conforto térmico dos trabalhadores. A simulação foi validada com dados de temperatura e umidade relativa do ar da instalação. As simulações bioclimáticas foram realizadas em doze tratamentos, modificando o fechamento nas paredes e lanternim, com três tipos de materiais de cobertura. Foi determinado o Índice IBUTG, considerando os efeitos do calor radiante gerado pelo forno, e pela área de ventilação natural sobre a temperatura e umidade relativa do ar no interior da instalação, e seu efeito no conforto dos trabalhadores. A zona térmica do forno apresentou condições de estresse térmico, portanto, foram sugeridos períodos de descanso e ventilação mecânica quando não for possível a evacuação do calor e vapor através da ventilação natural. O uso de avental aluminizado e óculos infravermelhos para proteção ocular foi recomendado para os trabalhadores expostos a altas temperaturas e radiação térmica. sólido IBUTG (IBUTG tratamentos lanternim cobertura portanto

Abstract: Environmental pollution from transportation has been a fundamental challenge for humanity throughout history, with conventional fuels contributing significantly to environmental degradation. This project seeks to suppress pollution and reduce noise generated by motorcycle taxis, whether for personal and/or private use. The main objective of the research work was to implement an electrolyzer in the combustion system of a motorcycle taxi to suppress environmental pollution and reduce noise. Methods included vehicle preparation, electrolyzer installation, battery adjustment, hydrogen generation, emissions measurement, safety, and data collection. As a result, the electrolyzer was implemented in the single-cylinder motorcycle taxi; The noise limit allowed at work in Peru is 85 dB, which is equivalent to 100 % noise at most; When using gasoline, a value of 76.4 dB was obtained, equivalent to 89.88 % noise, and when using hydrogen, a value of 71.7 dB was obtained, equivalent to 84.35 % noise, therefore, the total noise reduction was 4.70 dB (5.53 %) than established. The discussion highlighted that hydrogen is a clean fuel, with zero emissions and only emitting water vapor instead of polluting gases (5). The conclusion highlights the critical importance of the research, supported by the total reduction of 5.53 % of noise with this new technology and in turn external sources support that using hydrogen produced a smoother and quieter combustion; Regarding the useful life of the engine, due to the cleaner and more efficient combustion, the accumulation of waste was reduced, which benefits reducing the wear of internal components and the need for costly maintenance.

Resumen: La contaminación ambiental derivada del transporte ha sido un desafío fundamental para la humanidad a lo largo de la historia, con los combustibles convencionales contribuyendo significativamente a la degradación ambiental. Este proyecto busca suprimir la contaminación y reducir el ruido generada por mototaxis, ya sean de uso personal y/o privado. El trabajo de investigación tuvo como objetivo principal implementar un electrolizador en el sistema de combustión de un mototaxi para suprimir la contaminación ambiental y reducir el ruido. Los métodos incluyeron la preparación del vehículo, instalación del electrolizador, ajuste de la batería, generación de hidrógeno, medición de emisiones, seguridad y recolección de datos. Como resultado, se logró implementar el electrolizador en el mototaxi monocilíndrico; el límite de ruido permitido en el trabajo en el Perú es de 85 dB, que equivalen el 100 % de ruido como máximo; al utilizar gasolina se obtuvo un valor de 76.4 dB equivalentes a 89.88 % de ruido y al usar hidrógeno se obtuvo un valor de 71.7 dB siendo el 84.35 % de ruido, por lo tanto, la reducción total de ruido fue de 4.70 dB (5.53%) de lo establecido. La discusión destacó que el hidrógeno es un combustible limpio, con nulas emisiones y solo emitiendo vapor de agua en vez de gases contaminantes (5). La conclusión subraya la importancia crítica de la investigación, respaldada por la reducción total del 5.53 % de ruido con esta nueva tecnología y a su vez fuentes externas apoyan, que el utilizar hidrógeno produjo una combustión más suave y silenciosa. En cuanto a la vida útil del motor, la combustión más limpia y eficiente reduce la acumulación de residuos, lo que disminuye el desgaste de los componentes internos y la necesidad de mantenimientos costosos.

Abstract Climate change and the lack of fuel management in oak forests promote favorable conditions for the occurrence of forest fires. The objective of the present research was to know the relationship of dasometric variables, terrain slope (Pe), depth of leaf litter (Ph) and depth of mulch (Pm) on the fuel load in oak forests in the Mountain region of Guerrero. The dasometric variables mean diameter (Dm), mean height (Am), number of trees ha-1 (Na) and basal área ha-1 (Ab) were evaluated according to the sampling design of the 2015 National Forest and Soil Inventory; At each sampling site, three planar intersection lines were established for sampling woody material (Ml), leaf litter (Ho) and mulch (Ma) were collected in 0.09 m2. The total fuel load ranged from 23.2 to 46.5 t ha-1 (p < 0.05), the Ma presented the highest load with 43%, followed by woody material (Ml) and leaf litter (Ho) with 31 and 26%. The total charge (Ct) showed a relationship with Ma, Ho and Ml (r = 0.81 to 0.41), Ho with Ph and Pe (r = 0.71 and -0.72). The c1h showed a relationship with Na, Ma, Pe and Dm (r = 0.72 to -0.41), the c10h showed a correlation with Ab, Pe and Na (r = 0.51 to 0.42). The dasometric variables only explain the fuel load with a diameter less than or equal to 2.5 cm.

Resumen El cambio climático y la falta de manejo a los combustibles en los bosques de encino propicia condiciones favorables para la ocurrencia de incendios forestales. El objetivo de la presente investigación fue conocer la relación de variables dasométricas, pendiente del terreno (Pe), profundidad de la hojarasca (Ph) y profundidad del mantillo (Pm) sobre la carga de combustible en bosques de encino en la región Montaña de Guerrero. Las variables dasométricas diámetro medio (Dm), altura media (Am), número de árboles ha-1 (Na) y Área basal ha-1 (Ab) se evaluaron de acuerdo al diseño de muestreo del Inventario Nacional Forestal y de Suelos 2015; en cada sitio de muestreo se establecieron tres líneas de intersección planar para el muestreo de material leñoso (Ml), se recogió la hojarasca (Ho) y mantillo (Ma) en 0.09 m2. La carga total de combustibles osciló de 23.2 a 46.5 t ha-1 (p < 0.05), el Ma presentó mayor carga con el 43 %, seguido el material leñoso (Ml) y hojarasca (Ho) con el 31 y 26 %. La carga total (Ct) mostró relación con el Ma, Ho y Ml (r = 0.81 a 0.41), la Ho con Ph y Pe (r = 0.71 y -0.72). El c1h mostró relación con el Na, Ma, Pe y Dm (r = 0.72 a -0.41), el c10h evidenció correlación con el Ab, Pe y Na (r = 0.51 a 0.42). Las variables dasométricas solo explican la carga de combustible con diámetro menor o igual a 2.5 cm.

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) represent a promising technology to generate bio-electricity and synchronously reduce wastewater pollutants. The presence of exoelectrogens in wastewater is critical for bio-electricity and pollutant reduction, but the performance of exoelectrogens at different pH levels remains unknown. This study aims to bridge this gap by offering an integrated approach to understanding the performance of exoelectrogens under varying substrate pH, particularly in bio-electricity generation and pollutant reduction in sugarbeet processing wastewater (SBWW). Three pH levels (ranging from acidic to alkaline) were studied and MFC's electricity output was measured. Later, current density, power density, and coulombic efficiency (CE) were calculated. Both pre- and post-experiment substrate samples were analysed with inductively coupled plasma (ICP). Furthermore, 16S rRNA gene analysis, DNA amplification, sequencing library preparation, and bioinformatics workflows on post-experiment samples of the substrate and anode samples were conducted. A diverse community of microorganisms was identified, especially Alphaproteobacteria, Gammaproteobacteria, and Deltaproteobacteria (Geobacter). Bacteroidetes and Desulfovibrio were the major exoelectrogens responsible for electricity generation. Among the three pH levels tested, the most alkaline pH level (9.5±0.1) outperformed the others, achieving a 54% higher power density, 21% greater current density, and a 40% higher CE compared to the acidic pH level (6.5±0.1). Around 50-99% of pollutants were removed from the SBWW. The study revealed that Gammaproteobacteria thrive and perform better in alkaline environment.

Abstract: The results of a proposal for a high-efficiency photovoltaic system with multipurpose applications implemented along a road are presented. This system is designed to address issues related to lighting, telecommunications, and electric vehicle charging. The need for an isolated system arises from sudden power outages in the country that affect road safety and reliability, as well as the lack of phone signal in some areas. In the field of lighting, an analysis is conducted using DiaLux software to ensure compliance with appropriate lighting standards for different types of roads. Furthermore, the multipurpose system includes electric vehicle charging, which is becoming increasingly relevant due to the shift towards more eco-friendly vehicles. Providing electric vehicle charging along roads resolves the issue of limited electric vehicle range and promotes their reliable use. The evaluation of the energy resource using the Glover and McCulloch method is essential for designing an efficient system capable of meeting various user needs. Additionally, reducing carbon dioxide emissions is a significant consideration, as electric vehicles can significantly contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel vehicles. Abstract highefficiency high efficiency presented telecommunications reliability areas Furthermore ecofriendly eco friendly use needs Additionally consideration

Resumen: Se presentan los resultados de una propuesta de un sistema fotovoltaico de alta eficiencia con aplicaciones multipropósito, implementado a lo largo de una carretera. Este sistema está diseñado para abordar cuestiones relacionadas con la iluminación, las telecomunicaciones y la carga de vehículos eléctricos. La necesidad de un sistema aislado surge de los apagones repentinos en el país que afectan la seguridad vial, el excesivo uso de vehículos de combustibles fósiles que emiten gases que contaminan el planeta, así como la falta de señal telefónica en algunas zonas. En el ámbito de la iluminación, se realiza un análisis utilizando el software DiaLux para garantizar el cumplimiento de los estándares adecuados de iluminación para diferentes tipos de carreteras. Además, el sistema multipropósito incluye la carga de vehículos eléctricos livianos de uso particular, que se está volviendo cada vez más relevante debido al cambio hacia vehículos más ecológicos. La provisión de carga de vehículos eléctricos a lo largo de las carreteras resuelve el problema de la autonomía limitada de los vehículos eléctricos y promueve su uso confiable. La evaluación del recurso energético mediante el método Glover y McCulloch es fundamental para diseñar un sistema eficiente capaz de satisfacer diversas necesidades del usuario. Además, la reducción de las emisiones de dióxido de carbono es un aspecto importante, ya que los vehículos eléctricos pueden contribuir significativamente a la reducción de las emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero en comparación con los vehículos de combustibles fósiles Resumen carretera vial planeta zonas Además particular ecológicos confiable usuario importante

Abstract In Ecuador, Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining, MAPE, is an activity of national relevance. Historically there are three provinces with great potential and mining tradition, which are: El Oro, Zamora Chinchipe and Azuay. In this sense, in the province of El Oro, a large percentage of the economically active population depends directly or indirectly on the exploitation of highly profitable minerals. The key aspects for the development of underground operations of the MAPE regime are the drilling and blasting activities, where there is a great opportunity for improvement, efficiently managing the design of the grid, the execution of the drilling, the amount of explosive and the way it is charged, which are the factors that define the result of the blasting; same that is valued in function of the depth of cut or advance and of the uniformity of the structure of the section. For the development of this research, the baseline survey was carried out through technical visits to the study sector (Zaruma - Portovelo mining district), where traditional work procedures were observed, and then, based on the experimental method, technical variations were made in regarding the firing diagram, specific charge, specific perforation and type of explosive. These traditional (empirical) procedures, based on the driller's field experience, cause, among other things, the inefficiency of the advance, problems to maintain the dimensions of the section, over breaking of the working fronts, and one of the most relevant factors, the insecurity of the personnel who in many cases remain inside the mine for more than 10 hours.The main results show that the best tests were those that used the emulsion/ANFO (Amonium Nitrate Fuel Oil) combination, obtaining an advance percentage of approximately 95%, considered optimal within the operation. It was also evidenced that the Ammonium Nitrate commonly used in ASM needs a specific charge of greater power to meet the objective of the blasting.

Resumen En Ecuador, la Minería Artesanal y de Pequeña Escala, MAPE, es una actividad de relevancia nacional. Históricamente existen tres provincias de amplio potencial y de tradición minera, que son: El Oro, Zamora Chinchipe y Azuay. En este sentido, en la provincia de El Oro, gran porcentaje de la población económicamente activa, depende directa o indirectamente de la explotación de minerales de alta rentabilidad. Uno de los aspectos clave para el desarrollo de las operaciones subterráneas del régimen MAPE, son las actividades de perforación y voladura, en donde existe una gran oportunidad de mejora, gestionando de manera eficiente el diseño de la malla, la ejecución de la perforación, la cantidad de explosivo y la forma de cargado, que son los factores que definen el resultado de la voladura; mismo que es valorado en función de la profundidad de corte o avance y de la uniformidad de la estructura de la sección. Para el desarrollo de esta investigación se realizó el levantamiento de la línea base mediante visitas técnicas al sector de estudio (distrito minero Zaruma - Portovelo), donde se observaron los procedimientos tradicionales de trabajo, para luego, con base al método experimental realizar variaciones técnicas en cuanto al diagrama de disparo, carga específica, perforación específica y tipo de explosivo. Estos procedimientos tradicionales (empíricos), basados en la experiencia de campo del perforista, ocasiona entre otras cosas la ineficiencia del avance, problemas para mantener las dimensiones de la sección, sobre rotura de los frentes de trabajo, y uno de los factores más relevantes, la inseguridad del personal que en muchos casos permanece en el interior de la mina por más de 10 horas. Entre los principales resultados se obtuvo que los mejores ensayos fueron los que se utilizó la combinación emulsión/ANFO (Amonium Nitrate Fuel Oil), obteniendo un porcentaje de avance de aproximadamente 95%, considerado dentro de la operación como óptimo. Así también se evidenció que el Nitrato de Amonio de uso habitual en la MAPE, necesita una carga específica de mayor poder para cumplir con el objetivo de la voladura.

South Sudan is expansive and sparsely populated with over 80% of the population living in rural areas. The country has no national grid connecting its cities and towns, thus making rural areas "good candidates" for stand-alone renewable energy systems. This study was conducted to determine the technical feasibility and economic viability of a stand-alone photovoltaic (PV) system compared to a diesel generator. A techno-economic model was developed to forecast the performance of the PV system. The system was initially designed using the IEEE Recommended Practice for Sizing of Stand-Alone Photovoltaic Systems (IEEE P1562-2021) and the IEEE Recommended Practice for Sizing Lead-Acid Batteries for Stand-Alone Photovoltaic Systems (IEEE 1013-2019). The solar radiation data used for modeling were acquired from the Ineichen clear sky model and then transposed to the plane of array irradiation using pvlib python. The system optimization and sensitivity analysis was performed under various diesel fuel costs using the Hybrid Optimization of Multiple Energy Resources (HOMER) software. Results show that at a fuel price of $ 2 per liter, the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of the PV system is 64% lower than that of the diesel generator and that the system can earn 11% return on investment (ROI) and recover the investment in about 5.5 years. With a drop in price of diesel fuel to $1 per liter, the payback period increases to about 7 years. These results show that standalone PV systems are technically feasible and economically viable in rural and peri-urban areas of South Sudan.

Resumen (Introducción): Los altos niveles de degradación ambiental que causan los incendios forestales y su relación con el cambio climático generan grandes preocupaciones en el nivel mundial. En Costa Rica, eventos hidrometereológicos, catalogados como extremos, por su nivel de impacto, como el huracán Otto en 2016 y tormenta tropical Nate en 2017, parecieran haber provocado un cambio en la vegetación y, por consecuencia, en el combustible forestal. (Objetivo): Por tal razón, se analizó la afectación en el aporte de combustible vegetal causado por los eventos hidrometeorológicos extremos, durante el período comprendido entre 1997 y el año 2020, en los sitios Platanares, El Avión y Junquillal, del Área de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG), al noroeste del país. (Metodología): En el estudio se utilizaron datos de ocho índices de vegetación, seleccionados por su representatividad en el crecimiento del bosque, así como verificaciones de campo y recopilación de información proveniente de funcionarios y voluntarios del ACG, para determinar el efecto de los eventos extremos en las características del combustible vegetal y su relación con el manejo del fuego y la adaptación al cambio climático. (Resultados): Los resultados obtenidos indican que la vegetación de los sitios investigados se encuentra en estado de regeneración natural, pero que se halla expuesta a la influencia, cada vez más recurrente, del fenómeno ENOS en sus diferentes fases (Neutral, La Niña, El Niño), así como a eventos hidrometeorológicos extremos (como el huracán Otto, o la tormenta tropical Nate) (Conclusiones): que podrían estar favoreciendo no la cantidad, pero sí la intensidad de los incendios forestales.

Abstract (Introduction): The high levels of environmental degradation caused by forest fires and their relationship with climate change generate great concern worldwide. In Costa Rica, hydrometeorological events classified as extreme due to their level of impact, such as Hurricane Otto in 2016 and Tropical Storm Nate in 2017, seem to have caused a change in the vegetation and consequently with forest fuel. (Objective): For this reason, the impact on the supply of vegetable fuel caused by extreme hydrometeorological events was analyzed, during the period 1997 to 2020, in the Platanares, El Avión and Junquillal sites, of the Guanacaste Conservation Area (ACG) in the northwest of the country. (Methodology): In the study, data from eight vegetation indices were used, selected for their representativeness of forest growth, as well as field verifications and collection of information to official personnel and ACG volunteers, to determine the effect of extreme events in the characteristics of vegetable fuel and its relationship with fire management and adaptation to climate change. (Results): The results obtained indicate that the vegetation of the investigated sites is in a state of natural regeneration but is exposed to the increasingly recurrent influence of the ENSO phenomenon in its different phases (Neutral, La Niña, El Niño), as well as to Extreme hydrometeorological events (such as Hurricane Otto, or Tropical Storm Nate) (Conclusions): that could be favoring not the quantity, but the intensity of forest fires.

Abstract: Corn drying reduces the moisture content present in the grain to levels that allow safe storage. This process requires a large amount of energy, which is why, if not applied correctly, it can affect the quality of the product to be dried, in addition to representing important costs in the operation of the drying plants. The objective of this research is to analyze the corn drying systems used in Canton Quevedo, Province of Los Ríos. In order to achieve the objective, field visits were made to the area under study, considering factors related to the technology used and the corn harvesting period, as well as, characteristics of the coastal region of Ecuador. It was determined that stationary or fixed bed drying is the drying system widely used for corn drying, which uses subsidized liquefied petroleum gas as fuel for its operation. The moisture content of the corn received at the drying plants is above 30% in the two harvesting periods of the product, a situation that has an impact on processing times and product quality. The fuel demand for drying an average mass of product of 60.2 tons, between the first harvest period, March - June, and the second period, September - November, presents a difference of 300.77 kg of LPG in relation to the first harvest, being the moisture content a key factor to take into account.

Resumen: El secado del maíz permite reducir el contenido de humedad presente en el grano a niveles que permitan un almacenamiento seguro. El objetivo de esta investigación permite analizar los sistemas de secado de maíz empleados en el Cantón Quevedo, Provincia de Los Ríos. Para alcanzar nuestro objetivo se realizaron visitas de campo en la zona objeto de estudio, por lo que se consideraron factores relacionados con la tecnología empleada y período de cosecha de maíz, características de la región costera del Ecuador. Se determinó que el secado estacionario o de lecho fijo es el sistema de secado ampliamente empleado para el secado de maíz, el cual emplea como combustible el gas licuado de petróleo subsidiado para su funcionamiento. La humedad de recibo de maíz en las plantas de secado presenta niveles de humedad por encima del 30 %, en los dos periodos de cosecha del producto, situación que repercute en los tiempos de proceso y en la calidad del producto. La demanda de combustible para secar una masa promedio de producto, 60,2 Ton, entre el primer período de cosecha que va de Marzo - Junio, y el segundo período, Septiembre - Noviembre, presenta una diferencia de 300,77 Kg de GLP con relación a la primera cosecha, siendo la humedad de recibo un factor clave a tomar en cuenta.

Abstract In recent years, the South Korean philosopher living in Germany, Byung-Chul Han, has been setting new paths for philosophical reflection using the theoretical potential that arises from the understanding of the new social, political and economic realities that mark this era of neoliberal evolution and of technological development in the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Thus, topics such as the transformation of biopolitics into psycho-politics become a very relevant point for the analysis of current societies and their drifts. With this background of thought, this article aims to delve into Han’s arguments, exploring the crucial role that emotions play in societies of performance, fatigue and lack of democracy, resorting to the metaphor of the “hamster wheel” as an image evocative of the dynamics of current societies. In this way, an innovative perspective of the complexity of the 21st Century is presented by delving into certain nuances of Han’s thought in connection with the palpable reality of the emotions that act as the fuel that propels each individual in their own “existential wheel”. This articulation with emotional experiences contributes significantly to contemporary discussions about human nature in contexts of technological innovation.

Resumen En los últimos años, el filósofo surcoreano radicado en Alemania, Byung-Chul Han, viene marcando nuevos derroteros para la reflexión filosófica usando el potencial teórico que surge de la comprensión de las nuevas realidades sociales, políticas y económicas, que marcan esta época de evolución neoliberal y de desarrollo tecnológico, en el contexto de la cuarta Revolución Industrial. Así, temas como la transformación de la biopolítica en psicopolítica se convierten en un punto muy relevante para el análisis de las sociedades actuales y sus derivas. Con este trasfondo de pensamiento, el presente artículo tiene por objetivo sumergirse en las argumentaciones de Han, explorando el papel crucial que desempeñan las emociones en las sociedades del rendimiento, del cansancio y de la infocracia, acudiendo a la metáfora de la “rueda del hámster” como imagen evocadora de las dinámicas de las sociedades actuales. De esta forma, se presenta una perspectiva innovadora de la complejidad del siglo XXI, al adentrarnos en determinados matices del pensamiento de Han, en conexión con la realidad palpable de las emociones, que actúan como el combustible que impulsa a cada individuo en su propia “rueda existencial”. Esta articulación con las experiencias emocionales contribuye de manera significativa a las discusiones contemporáneas acerca de la naturaleza humana en contextos de innovación tecnológica.

Abstract In recent years the environment has been affected by pollution produced by vehicles. The objective of this research project was to determine the incidence of air conditioning (A/C) in the vehicular fuel consumption index in the Shushufindi canton, through real traffic tests, Efficient driving mode and the use of Extra and Super gasoline, for the selection of the best alternative. The study was carried out on a route with a greater flow of vehicles, especially during normal (9:00 am) and beak (5:00 pm) hours, which comprises 16.17 km; for which used gasoline Extra (85 octane) and Super (92 octane). Data collection was carried out using an OBD2 ELM 327 system. The results obtained in the characterization of the representative mixed cycle at 9:00 am, a maximum speed of 81 km/h and an average speed of 39 km/h were obtained in a time of 1446 s route; while the mixed cycle at 5:00 pm the maximum speed is 70 km/h and an average speed of 37 km/h with a travel time of 1632 s. The lowest fuel consumption index was evidenced in normal hours, without A/C and Extra fuel (T3) with values between 0.0584 - 0.060 (L/km), and in normal hours, without A/C and super fuel (T7) that are between 0.0561-0.0585 (L/km).

Resumen En los últimos años, el ambiente se ha visto afectado a causa de la contaminación producida por los vehículos. El presente proyecto de investigación tuvo como objetivo determinar la incidencia del aire acondicionado (A/C) en el índice de consumo de combustible vehicular en el cantón Shushufindi, por medio de pruebas reales de tráfico, modo de conducción eficiente y empleo de gasolina extra y súper, para la selección de la mejor alternativa. El estudio se realizó en una ruta de mayor flujo de vehículos, especialmente en la hora normal (9 a. m.) y pico (5 p. m.) que comprende 16.17 km, para ello se utilizó el combustible Extra (85 octanos) y Súper (92 octanos). La toma de datos se ejecutó mediante un sistema OBD2 ELM 327. Los resultados obtenidos en la caracterización del ciclo mixto representativo de 9 a. m. se obtuvo una velocidad máxima de 81 km/h y una velocidad media de 39 km/h en un tiempo de recorrido de 1446 s; mientras que el ciclo mixto de 5 p. m. la velocidad máxima es de 70 km/h y una velocidad media de 37 km/h con un tiempo de recorrido de 1632 s. El menor índice de consumo de combustible se evidenció en el horario normal, sin A/C y combustible extra (T3) siendo sus valores entre 0.0584 - 0.060 (L/km), y en el horario normal, sin A/C y combustible súper (T7) que se encuentran entre 0.0561-0.0585 (L/km).