ABSTRACT Purpose To analyze the Benefit of Modulated Masking (BMM) in electrophysiological and behavioral measurements in young and adult normal-hearing individuals. Methods Observational and cross-sectional analytical study, with a final research sample consisted of 40 participants, 20 individuals aged 18 to 30 years (young adults) and 20 individuals aged 31 to 50 years (adults), to carry out behavioral assessment (Sentence recognition test in the presence of stable and modulated noise) and electrophysiological (Cortical Auditory Evoked Potential) for BMM investigation. The results were analyzed using the paired t-test and ANOVA for repeated measures, applied by the Bonferroni post-hoc test (p-value <0.05). Results Less interference from modulated noise was identified in the latency and amplitude measurements of cortical components, generating a significant reduction in P1 latency and an increase in P2 amplitude in both groups of participants. Stable noise generated higher electrophysiological and behavioral thresholds compared to modulated noise. A greater magnitude of BMM was observed in the young-adult group. Conclusion In both groups of participants, less interference from modulated noise was identified in the encoding time of the neural auditory response and in the process of neural discrimination of speech. Furthermore, behavioral and electrophysiological thresholds were typically higher in stable noise when compared to modulated noise, pointing to a correspondence between BMM measurements between hearing domains. The magnitude of the higher BMM in the young-adult group, especially in the electrophysiological domain, suggests a greater temporal resolution ability in younger individuals.

RESUMO Objetivo Analisar o Benefício do Mascaramento Modulado (BMM) em medidas eletrofisiológicas e comportamentais em indivíduos jovens e adultos normouvintes. Método Estudo analítico observacional e transversal, com amostra final da pesquisa composta por 40 participantes, sendo 20 indivíduos de 18 a 30 anos (jovens-adultos) e 20 indivíduos de 31 a 50 anos (adultos), para realização de avaliação comportamental (Teste de reconhecimento de sentença na presença de ruído estável e modulado) e eletrofisiológica (Potencial Evocado Auditivo Cortical) para investigação do BMM. Os resultados foram analisados através do Test-t pareado e ANOVA para medidas repetidas, seguido pelo teste post-hoc de Bonferroni (p-valor <0,05). Resultados Foi identificada uma menor interferência do ruído modulado nas medidas de latência e amplitude dos componentes corticais, gerando uma redução significativa na latência de P1 e aumento da amplitude de P2 em ambos os grupos de participantes. O ruído estável gerou limiares eletrofisiológicos e comportamentais mais elevados comparado ao ruído modulado. Uma maior magnitude do BMM foi observada no grupo jovem-adulto. Conclusão Identificou-se em ambos os grupos de participantes uma menor interferência do ruído modulado no tempo de codificação da resposta auditiva neural e no processo de discriminação neural da fala. Além disso, os limiares comportamentais e eletrofisiológicos foram tipicamente mais elevados diante do ruído estável quando comparado ao ruído modulado, apontando para uma correspondência da medida do BMM entre os domínios da audição. A magnitude do BMM superior no grupo de jovens-adultos, especialmente no domínio eletrofisiológico, sugere uma maior habilidade de resolução temporal em indivíduos mais jovens.

ABSTRACT Purpose To evaluate and compare the effects of sound exposure on the vestibulocochlear system and the quality of life among musicians. Methods Fifty-six individuals participated, including 28 musicians and 28 non-musicians, aged 18 to 45 years, of both genders. Participants underwent medical history assessment, basic audiological evaluation, vestibular evoked myogenic potential (VEMP), and exclusively, WHOQOL-Bref questionnaire. Results Professional and enthusiast musicians participated, showing increased auditory thresholds at 3 and 4 kHz frequencies and considerably satisfactory quality of life. There was significance in cervical VEMP latencies and the latency of the P15 wave in the left ocular VEMP of the study group compared to the control group. VEMP demonstrated larger waves bilaterally in men compared to women. Conclusion It was concluded that sound exposure, within tolerance limits in terms of time and intensity, was capable of providing auditory, vestibular, and quality of life benefits for musicians.

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar e comparar os efeitos da exposição sonora no sistema vestíbulococlear entre os grupos e a qualidade de vida dos musicistas. Método Participaram 56 indivíduos, sendo 28 musicistas e 28 não-musicistas, com faixa etária de 18 a 45 anos e de ambos os sexos. Os participantes foram submetidos à anamnese, avaliação audiológica básica, potencial evocado miogênico vestibular (VEMP) e, exclusivamente, os musicistas ao questionário WHOQOL-Bref. Resultados Participaram musicistas profissionais e entusiastas que apresentaram limiares auditivos aumentados nas frequências de 3 e 4KHz e qualidade de vida consideravelmente satisfatória. Houve significância nas latências do VEMP cervical e na latência da onda P15 do lado esquerdo do VEMP ocular do grupo estudo em relação ao grupo controle. O VEMP demonstrou ondas maiores bilateralmente nos homens em comparação com as mulheres. Conclusão Concluiu-se que a exposição sonora, dentro dos limites de tolerância em tempo e intensidade, foi passível de proporcionar benefícios auditivos, vestibulares e de qualidade de vida para os musicistas.

ABSTRACT Purpose: Amblyopia is a cortical neurological disorder caused by abnormal visual experiences during the critical period for visual development. Recent works have shown that, in addition to the well-known visual alterations, such as changes in visual acuity, several perceptual aspects of vision are affected. This study aims to analyze and compare the effects of different types of amblyopia on visual color processing and determine whether these effects are correlated with visual acuity. Methods: Our study sample comprised 42 amblyopic individuals, aged 7-40 years, (strabismus, n=16; anisometropia, n=18; and mixed-cause, n=8) and 33 age-matched controls. Color vision was tested by measuring the chromaticity threshold of each patient on the protan, deutan, and tritan axes using version 02 of the Cambridge Color Test. Spatial stimulation cues were eliminated using spatial noise and luminance. Results: The color discrimination thresholds on the protan, deutan, and tritan axes were similar between control participants and amblyopic patients (p>0.05). There was no correlation between VA values and color thresholds (p>0.05). Conclusion: Patients with amblyopia have normal color vision in contexts that include luminance and spatial noise. Our results may be indicative of independent neural pathways for spatial and chromatic visual processing.

Abstract: Noise which could be defined as disturbing sound, is becoming a major problem depending with developing technology. Controlling the noise helps raising the quality of life to higher levels. Although the intensity of the noise is not at a level that will affect human health, it should be reduced or eliminated, for better life standart. Due to the adverse effects of the noise level on health; the acoustic properties of living areas require serious consideration. Sound absorption coefficients of the materials used in the interior play an important role in providing sensory comfort depending on the volume. Natural and artificial wood are commonly used materials in interior design, especially in the construction of partition elements. In addition, wood is natural material and it has some important advantages and disadvantages. In this study the sound absorption coefficients of eastern beech and scotch pine trees, which are the most preferred materials in interior design, were investigated. For this pupose, these wood materials were cut superficially and radially according to the intersection directions, then the sample surfaces were varnished with one and two component water-based varnishes that do not contain solvent-based resin. The sound absorption coefficients of the obtained samples were determined by the impedance tube method and the results were compared statistically. It has been investigated that the obtained results could be evaluated statistically within the frequency values, besides, different results could be obtained according to the characteristics of natural wood materials, the direction of intersection and water-based varnish types. According to the findings obtained as a result of the study, it has been suggested that if natural wood material is used indoors, the superficial cross-section of East beech wood should be used according to the direction of intersection, and a two-component varnish should be used according to the varnish type.

Abstract: Cross-laminated timber is an industrialised wood product that has increased exponentially in its use in the construction industry due to its structural efficiency, lightness, sustainable character and economic competitiveness. Thus, in recent years, this product is being used for the construction of collective buildings (high-rise buildings) throughout Europe, developing a new efficient and high quality structural and construction system. However, the use of these lightweight construction systems using cross-laminated timber, compared to traditional heavyweight systems, do not have a good impact sound insulation performance in the floors of collective buildings. To achieve similar insulation to traditional systems, new elastomeric materials, most of them expensive, need to be introduced in wooden structures design, in collaboration with higher density materials (mortar/concrete) or multilayer materials (specific acoustic insulator materials). This study investigates the introduction of elastic materials made from end-of-life tyres (ELT, hereinafter NFU) with elastic properties similar to current elastomers as an alternative to improve the acoustic performance of these lightweight constructions. To this end, laboratory tests are carried out on the reduction of impact noise transmission on small specimens, with different thicknesses of NFU blanket, on a mixed panel base of cross-laminated timber (CLT) and concrete. The results show impact sound insulation improvements (>8 dB) in all cases studied (4 mm, 10 mm and 20 mm NFU blankets) above 160 Hz. Insulation improvements above 250 Hz are also achieved by partially (15%) replacing aggregate with NFU shot in the concrete slab dosage. The introduction of these materials (end-of-life tyres) in the construction industry as acoustic insulators enables the controlled reuse of a material that currently generates serious environmental problems due to its uncontrolled storage and low recycling volume. Besides, it compensates the acoustic limitations of wood-based products, such as cross-laminated timber, and increases the sustainability advantages of these timber construction systems.

Resumen: La madera contralaminada es un producto industrializado de madera que ha incrementado exponencialmente su uso en la industria de la construcción debido a su eficiencia estructural, su ligereza, su carácter sostenible y su competitividad económica. Así, en los últimos años, se está utilizando este producto para la construcción de edificación colectiva (edificación en altura) en toda Europa, desarrollando un nuevo sistema estructural y constructivo eficiente y de alta calidad. Sin embargo, el uso de estos sistemas constructivos ligeros empleando madera contralaminada, en comparación con los sistemas pesados tradicionales, no presentan un buen comportamiento de aislamiento al ruido de impacto en los suelos de sus construcciones colectivas. Para alcanzar aislamientos similares a los sistemas tradicionales, en el diseño de las estructuras de madera se incorporan nuevos materiales elastoméricos, la mayoría con un coste elevado, en colaboración con materiales de mayor densidad (mortero/hormigón) o multicapa (aislantes acústicos específicos). Este estudio investiga la introducción de materiales elásticos fabricados a partir de neumáticos fuera de uso (NFU), con propiedades elásticas semejantes a los elastómeros actuales, como alternativa para mejorar el comportamiento acústico de estas construcciones ligeras. Para ello, se realizan ensayos en laboratorio de la reducción de transmisión del ruido de impacto sobre especímenes de tamaño reducido, con distintos espesores de manta de NFU, sobre una base de panel mixto de madera contralaminada (CLT) y hormigón. Los resultados muestran mejoras de aislamiento a ruido de impacto (>8 dB) en todos los casos estudiados (mantas de NFU de 4 mm, 10 mm y 20 mm) por encima de los 160 Hz. También se alcanzan mejoras de aislamiento por encima de los 250 Hz al sustituir parcialmente (15%) árido por granalla NFU en la dosificación de la losa de hormigón. La introducción de este tipo de materiales (neumáticos fuera de uso) en la industria de la construcción como aislantes acústicos permite reutilizar, de forma controlada, un material que actualmente genera graves problemas medioambientales por su incontrolado almacenamiento y escaso volumen reciclado. Así mismo, contrarresta las limitaciones acústicas de los productos derivados de la madera, como los paneles mixtos CLT-hormigón, e incrementando las ventajas de sostenibilidad de estos sistemas constructivos de madera.

Caffeine (CAF) and nicotine (NIC) are emerging contaminants and are among the most consumed substances in the world, making it crucial to monitor these contaminants. In this work, an alternative electrolyte, 2-hydroxyethylammonium acetate (2HEAA) was used for the development of an electroanalytical method for determination and quantification of CAF and NIC, simultaneously, using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). The system with the 2HEAA electrolyte was characterized by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and the DPV parameters were optimized for the best conditions. The method was validated from a calibration curve obtained which showed limit of detection (LOD) of 0.82 and 6.26 μmol L 1 and limit of quantification (LOQ) of 2.73 and 20.8 μmol L-1 for CAF and NIC, respectively. In the precision analyses, values lower than 10% of relative standard deviation were obtained. In the presence of concomitant inorganic and organic species, the system proved to be selective in the determination of analytes. The method was used to determine the analytes in fortified samples (river water, synthetic urine and commercial milk), obtaining recoveries between 87.25 and 111.40%. The 2HEAA demonstrated high efficiency as an alternative electrolyte with good signal-to-noise ratio, increased analytical sensitivity of the method, in addition to presenting low cost and fast electrolyte preparation. (CAF NIC (NIC world work 2hydroxyethylammonium hydroxyethylammonium 2 HEAA (2HEAA simultaneously DPV. . (DPV) spectroscopy conditions LOD (LOD 082 0 82 0.8 626 6 26 6.2 LOQ (LOQ 273 73 2.7 208 20 8 20. L1 L- respectively analyses 10 species river water milk, milk , milk) 8725 87 25 87.2 11140 111 40 111.40% signaltonoise signal noise ratio preparation (DPV 08 0. 62 6. 27 7 2. 872 87. 1114 11 4 111.40 111.4 111.

BACKGROUND: The development of a Digit Triplet Test in the Swahili language is an essential step towards providing accurate hearing assessment for Swahili-speaking populations. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to develop a Digit Triplet Test in Swahili through a two-part procedure consisting of an optimisation phase and an evaluation phase using normal hearing participants. METHOD: A total of 34 subjects participated in the study. During the optimisation phase, a psychometric intelligibility function was determined for each recorded digit, allowing for volume adjustments to standardise the threshold across all digits. This resulted in a lower threshold and a steeper psychometric function for both the triplets and the test lists. Using the optimised speech material, four test lists were created, each containing 27 triplets composed of digits between 1 and 9. The finalised material was then evaluated. RESULTS: In the final version, the mean Speech Reception Threshold (SRT) for the participants was −8.9 ± 0.6 dB Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR), and the mean slope was 24.7 ± 3.5%/dB using triplet scoring. CONCLUSION: The psychometric function for normal listeners shows a steep slope with little variation between subjects and across test lists. CONTRIBUTION: The test results are comparable to those of Digit Triplet Tests developed in other languages, indicating the effectiveness and reliability of the Swahili Digit Triplet Test for hearing assessments.

Resumo: O ruído ambiental é um poluente atmosférico urbano nas metrópoles. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar a associação entre a exposição diferencial ao ruído ambiental e a qualidade do sono em adultos. Trata-se de um estudo transversal com amostragem aleatória estratificada de residências conforme duas categorias de exposição (alta [≥ 65dBA] e baixa [≤ 50dBA]), de acordo com o mapa do ruído urbano. Foram selecionadas pessoas maiores de 18 anos, que dormiam e moravam o maior tempo no local durante os últimos seis meses, e foram excluídas pessoas em tratamento de distúrbios mentais ou de comunicação. Foi utilizado um questionário autoaplicável para coletar as características sociodemográficas, clínicas, de estilo de vida, de exposição ao ruído e de qualidade subjetiva do sono (Índice da Qualidade do Sono de Pittsburgh). A análise estatística incluiu testes qui-quadrado e correlações de Spearman, e foi utilizado um modelo de regressão de Poisson com variância robusta. As análises foram realizadas no Stata v12. Foram incluídos 221 participantes, 53,4% do sexo feminino, com idade média de 57 anos (IIQ: 35-67), 52,9% trabalhadores e 45,9% com formação universitária. Foi observado que 47,5% dos participantes tinham alguma patologia subjacente. Os residentes de locais com alta exposição ao ruído tiveram uma maior prevalência de 13% de qualidade de sono ruim em comparação com aqueles de locais com baixa exposição (RP = 1,13; IC95%: 0,99-1,28). O ruído ambiental afeta a qualidade do sono, mas fatores como sensibilidade ao ruído, duração da exposição, variáveis sociodemográficas, hábitos de vida e distúrbios de saúde mental determinam a forma e a magnitude com que o ruído afeta a qualidade do sono.

Resumen: El ruido ambiental es un contaminante urbano del aire en metrópolis. Nuestro objetivo fue determinar la asociación entre exposición diferencial a ruido ambiental y calidad del sueño de adultos. Se realizó estudio de corte transversal con muestreo aleatorio estratificado de viviendas según dos categorías de exposición (alta [≥ 65dBA] y baja [≤ 50dBA]), de acuerdo con mapa a priori de ruido de la ciudad. Se seleccionó personas con 18 o más años, que durmieran y residieran el mayor tiempo posible en la vivienda los últimos seis meses y, se excluyó a personas con tratamiento de alteraciones mentales o de la comunicación. Se utilizó un cuestionario auto diligenciado para medir las características sociodemográficas, clínicas, de estilo de vida, de exposición a ruido, y de calidad subjetiva del sueño (Índice de Calidad de Sueño de Pittsburgh). El análisis estadístico incluyó contrastes mediante chi cuadrado, correlaciones de Spearman y se estructuró un modelo de regresión de Poisson con varianza robusta. Los análisis se realizaron en Stata v12. Se incluyeron 221 participantes, 53,4% mujeres con edad mediana de 57 años (RIC: 35-67), 52,9% trabajadores y 45,9% con formación universitaria. El 47,5% de las personas tenía alguna patología de base. Los residentes en la zona de alta exposición presentaron 13% más prevalencia de mala calidad del sueño comparado con la zona de baja (RP = 1,13; IC95%: 0,99-1,28). El ruido ambiental altera la calidad del sueño, sin embargo, existen factores tales como la sensibilidad al ruido, la duración de la exposición, variables sociodemográficas, hábitos de vida y alteraciones en salud mental que modulan la manera y magnitud en que el ruido afecta dicha calidad del sueño.

Abstract: Environmental noise is an urban air pollutant in metropolises. This study aimed to identify the association between differential exposure to environmental noise and sleep quality in adults. This cross-sectional study used stratified random sampling of households according to two noise exposure categories (high [≥ 65dBA] and low [≤ 50dBA]), as specified by the urban noise map. People aged over 18 years, who slept and spent most of their time in the place during the last six months were selected, and people undergoing treatment for mental or communication disorders were excluded. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic, clinical, lifestyle, noise exposure, and subjective sleep quality characteristics (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index). Statistical analysis included chi-squared tests and Spearman’s correlations, and a Poisson regression model with robust variance was used. The analyses were performed in Stata v12. A total of 221 participants were included, 53.4% female, with a mean age of 57 years (IQR: 35-67), 52.9% workers and 45.9% with higher education. It was observed that 47.5% of the participants had some underlying pathology. Residents of places with high noise exposure had a 13% higher prevalence of poor sleep quality compared to those in places with low exposure (PR = 1.13; 95%CI: 0.99-1.28). Although affecting sleep quality, the ways and extent with which environmental noise affects individuals seems to be influenced by noise sensitivity, length of exposure, sociodemographic variables, lifestyle habits, and mental health disorders.

Este ensaio tem como objetivo discutir a caminhada e o uso da bicicleta como deslocamento na população brasileira. Evidências científicas oriundas principalmente de países de alta renda mostram tanto contribuições para a saúde das pessoas, apontando que essas atividades físicas podem compor parte importante do cotidiano e contribuem na prevenção de doenças, como para a saúde das cidades, com a diminuição da poluição do ar e sonora e dos problemas provocados pelo excesso de veículos automotores. Discutimos as formas de mensuração em inquéritos nacionais e as novas tecnologias que vêm sendo utilizadas. Análises de tendência mostram uma queda nesse tipo de atividade física entre adultos que vivem nas capitais brasileiras, mas como a caminhada e o uso da bicicleta são analisadas conjuntamente, as interpretações ficam prejudicadas, limitando também o estudo de fatores associados aos diferentes tipos de deslocamentos. Mostramos que algumas capitais brasileiras estão evoluindo no aumento de estruturas ambientais, mas indicadores populacionais mostram que grupos de menor nível socioeconômico têm menos acessos. Discutimos o quanto essas atividades ainda são praticadas por necessidade e sem possibilidades de escolhas no Brasil, onde os custos do transporte ainda são altos e os ambientes, iníquos. No entanto, como a maioria dos estudos no Brasil são transversais, a avaliação dos possíveis efeitos na saúde e a influência de variáveis sociais e de mudanças ambientais nesse comportamento fica prejudicada. Novos inquéritos populacionais e estudos longitudinais que embasem políticas são essenciais para a promoção da caminhada e do uso da bicicleta como deslocamento.

Este ensayo tiene como objetivo discutir la caminata y el uso de la bicicleta como medio de desplazamiento en la población brasileña. La evidencia científica de países principalmente de altos ingresos muestra contribuciones tanto a la salud de las personas, señalando que estas actividades físicas pueden ser una parte importante de la vida diaria y ayudar en la prevención de enfermedades, como a la salud de las ciudades, mediante la reducción de la contaminación atmosférica y acústica y los problemas causados por el exceso de vehículos de motor. Se discuten las formas de medición en las encuestas nacionales y las nuevas tecnologías que se han utilizado. Los análisis de tendencias muestran una caída en este tipo de actividad física entre los adultos que viven en las capitales brasileñas, pero a medida que se analizan en conjunto la caminata y el uso de la bicicleta, las interpretaciones se ven afectadas, lo que también limita el estudio de los factores asociados con diferentes tipos de desplazamientos. Algunas capitales brasileñas experimentan una evolución en el aumento de las estructuras ambientales, pero los indicadores de población muestran que los grupos de menor nivel socioeconómico todavía tienen menos acceso. Se discuten cómo estas actividades en Brasil aún se practican por necesidad y sin elección cuyos costos de transporte siguen siendo altos y los entornos son poco equitativos. La mayoría de los estudios en Brasil son transversales, lo que afecta la evaluación de los posibles efectos sobre la salud y la influencia de las variables sociales y los cambios ambientales en este comportamiento. Las nuevas encuestas de población y los estudios longitudinales que apoyan las políticas son esenciales para fomentar la caminata y el uso de la bicicleta como medio de desplazamiento.

This essay aims to discuss walking and cycling as a means of transportation for the Brazilian population. Scientific evidence (mainly from high-income countries) shows their contributions to people’s health, pointing out that these physical activities can constitute an important part of daily life and contribute to preventing diseases and to the health of municipalities by reducing air and noise pollution and the problems due to the excess of motor vehicles. We discuss the forms of measurement in national surveys and the new technologies that have been used. Trend analyses show a decrease in this type of physical activity in adults living in Brazilian capitals. However, analyzing walking and cycling together impairs interpretations and limits the study of factors associated with different types of commuting. We show that some Brazilian capitals are increasing their environmental structures, but population indicators show that groups of lower socioeconomic levels have less access to the. We discuss how much these activities are still practiced out of necessity − rather than out of choice − in Brazil due to transportation costs that remain high and unequal environments. However, most studies in Brazil being cross-sectional impairs the evaluation of possible effects on health and the influence of social variables and environmental changes on this behavior. New population surveys and longitudinal studies that support policies are essential to promote walking and cycling as a means of transportation.

Several tailings dam failures have been reported over the past few decades, raising questions about the stability of these structures. Over the past 30 years, there have been more severe failures of tailings dams, which have resulted in damage to the environment, fatalities and severe socio-economic issues. It is often impossible to predict when tailings dams could fail, so there is an urgent need to develop cost-effective methods for monitoring their stability and preventing such catastrophic events. Recent advancements in techniques related to ambient seismic noise have the potential to introduce new approaches to subsurface imaging and monitoring. In this study, we investigated the potential of using ambient seismic noise to monitor the interior wall of a tailings dam. We used 20 3C short-period geophones to record ambient noise over 3 days continuously. We set up the geophones at the Harmony Gold Mine tailings dam in Welkom, South Africa, along a survey profile approximately 100 m long. Seismic interferometry was used from the recorded data to retrieve empirical Green's functions. We computed the dispersion curves' inversion to determine the dam wall's shear wave velocity at different depths. The calculated shear wave velocity cross-sections revealed a region of reduced velocity within the dam wall, situated between 2 m and 10 m beneath the surface. This zone of low velocity can be a sign of water-saturated material or other subsurface anomalies, which might jeopardise the dam's structure. SIGNIFICANCE: Tailings dams have a long history of ruptures and collapse. The results from this study indicate that passive seismic interferometry can be a cost-effective tool for imaging and identifying minor changes within the interior of the tailings dam wall. This technique could prove valuable in detecting potential instabilities before they reach a critical stage. This can allow for early intervention and remedial measures, such as reinforcing the dam wall or adjusting the water levels in the tailings dam.

Resumen Introducción. La combinación de curvas de calibración generadas por espectroscopía de infrarrojo cercano (NIR) con aprendizaje profundo ofrece una oportunidad para desarrollar métodos de discriminación de la calidad y origen del cacao, apoyando estrategias de valorización territorial y trazabilidad de cacaos diferenciados. Objetivo. Validar la aplicabilidad de un método de discriminación de cacaos según su origen geográfico, mediante técnicas de espectroscopía NIR portátil y aprendizaje profundo. Materiales y métodos. Se recolectaron 193 muestras de granos de cacao fermentados y secos de diversas regiones de Costa Rica, utilizando 72 muestras para calibración y 121 para predicción. Las muestras se analizaron para determinar su composición proximal, acidez titulable y compuestos fenólicos. Se empleó un espectrofotómetro NIR para recopilar datos espectrales (400-1700 nm). El preprocesamiento de los datos espectrales permitió desarrollar modelos de regresión para predecir características químicas. Para el modelo de clasificación geográfica, se eliminó el ruido de los espectros y se realizó un análisis de conglomerados, usando la distancia Gower y el método de agrupamiento Ward sobre los componentes obtenidos mediante Análisis de Componentes Principales (ACP). Resultados. La grasa fue el principal componente presente en el conjunto de muestras (>39,67%). El análisis espectral demostró que el NIR puede diferenciar el cacao según el grado de fermentación y el contenido de compuestos fenólicos. El modelo de regresión de mínimos cuadrados parciales extendida (XLS) mostró la mejor capacidad predictiva para las propiedades químicas. El agrupamiento por origen geográfico identificó cuatro grupos influenciados principalmente por propiedades químicas relacionadas con prácticas poscosecha. Conclusión. El modelo de regresión lineal empleado demostró ser superior en la predicción de características químicas proximales. Se observó que la limitada diversidad genética y las prácticas poscosecha estandarizadas podrían reducir la variabilidad de calidad asociada al origen geográfico, limitando la utilidad del NIR en la identificación del origen y la trazabilidad. Se sugiere explorar espectros más amplios y equipos adicionales para análisis multivariados avanzados.

Abstract Introduction.The combination of calibration curves generated by near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy with deep learning offers an opportunity to develop methods for discriminating the quality and origin of cocoa, supporting strategies for territorial valorization and traceability of differentiated cocoas. Objective. To validate the applicability of a method for discriminating cocoa according to its geographical origin using portable NIR spectroscopy and deep learning techniques. Materials and methods. A total of 193 samples of fermented and dried cocoa beans from different regions of Costa Rica were collected, using 72 samples for calibration and 121 for prediction. The samples were analyzed to determine their proximal composition, titratable acidity, and phenolic compounds. A NIR spectrophotometer was used to collect spectral data (400-1700 nm). Spectral data preprocessing allowed for the development of regression models to predict chemical characteristics. For the geographical classification model, noise was removed from the spectra, and cluster analysis was performed using the Gower distance and Ward's clustering method on components obtained through Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Results. Fat was the main component present in the sample set (>39.67%). Spectral analysis demonstrated that NIR can differentiate cocoa based on the degree of fermentation and phenolic compound content. The extended partial least squares (XLS) regression model showed the best predictive capacity for chemical properties. Clustering by geographical origin identified four groups mainly influenced by chemical properties related to post-harvest practices. Conclusion. The linear regression model used proved superior in predicting proximal chemical characteristics. It was observed that limited genetic diversity and standardized post-harvest practices could reduce the quality variability associated with geographical origin, limiting the utility of NIR in origin identification and traceability. It is suggested to explore broader spectra and additional equipment for advanced multivariate analyses.

Resumen A la contaminación acústica se le considera uno de los problemas que afecta a la sociedad moderna a escala mundial, en parte provocado por la dinámica de la ciudad. A pesar de que su reconocimiento como un peligro para la salud es reciente y sus efectos han pasado a ser considerados un problema sanitario, las acciones y políticas para combatirla no son comunes aún en las grandes urbes. El presente artículo muestra los resultados de un análisis geográfico donde se evaluó ese tipo de polución en barrio Escalante. El objetivo fue analizar el comportamiento espacio-temporal de la intensidad del sonido durante octubre de 2021 a marzo de 2022. Para llevar a cabo el trabajo se desarrolló un estudio de orden cuantitativo con mediciones de sonómetro. Esto permitió medir la intensidad que transmiten los sonidos en diferentes lugares de Escalante, en dos periodos: día y noche. Luego se clasificaron los decibeles por ciclo según su intensidad en una escala del uno al cinco. Así posteriormente se obtuvo al que se le llamó índice general del sonido (IGS) y con ello el plano de intensidad de sonido del área de estudio.

Resumo A poluição sonora é considerada um dos problemas que afetam a sociedade moderna em escala global, em parte provocada pela dinâmica da cidade. Apesar de seu reconhecimento como um perigo para a saúde ser recente e seus efeitos passaram a ser considerados um problema de saúde, ações e políticas para combatê-la ainda não são comuns nas grandes cidades. Este artigo mostra os resultados de uma análise geográfica onde esse tipo de poluição foi avaliada no bairro Escalante. O objetivo foi analisar o comportamento espaço-temporal da intensidade do som durante outubro de 2021 a março de 2022. Para realizar o trabalho, foi desenvolvido um estudo quantitativo com medições de sonômetro. Isso permitiu medir a intensidade que os sons transmitem em diferentes lugares de Escalante, em dois períodos: dia e noite. Em seguida, os decibéis foram classificados por ciclo de acordo com sua intensidade em uma escala de um a cinco. Assim, posteriormente, obteve-se o chamado índice geral de som (IGS) e, com isso, o plano de intensidade de som da área de estudo.

Abstract Noise Pollution is considered one of the biggest health risks in modern society worldwide, partly caused by city dynamics. Although its recognition as a health Hazard is recent and its effects have become considered a health problems, actions, and policies to combat it are not yet common in big cities. This article shows the results of a geographical analysis where this type of pollution was evaluated in Barrio Escalante, the objective was to analyze the spatial-temporal behavior of sound intensity during October 2021 to March 2022. In order to achieve that objective, a quantitative study was developed with sound level meter measurements. This allowed measuring the intensity of the sounds in different places of Escalante, in two periods: day and night. Decibels were then classified by cycle according to their intensity on a scale of one to five. This is how the general sound index (GSI) was subsequently obtained and so the sound intensity plane of the study area.

Abstract Factors that can cause illnesses in mining personnel are analyzed. This work contributes to the knowledge by providing recent medical reports on health in mining. The main objective is to describe the harmful physical and psychological effects that impair the quality of life of these workers. The methodology used is based on the search for background information in the bibliography and work experiences in Chilean mining; the PubMed search engine was mainly used. Employers have an important role to play in preventing their workers from exhibiting symptoms of occupational diseases, which would also increase the productivity of companies. They were analyzed for diseases caused by suspended dust, welding fumes, vibrations, lifting heavy loads, ionizing radiation from gamma scans, high noise levels, depression, exhaustion, and stress. The effects would be silicosis, welder's lung, injuries to the musculoskeletal system, injuries associated with the spine, elbow injuries, gamma-ray cancer, hearing loss, balance problems, dizziness, difficulties sleeping, depression, job stress, family dissolution, and worst cases, suicides. As a result, updated knowledge of the causes that generate diseases is obtained, and thus prevention plans are defined. It is concluded that there are well-defined physical conditions but also important psychological problems resulting from work stress that also affect families, sometimes with deadly consequences. It would also be the hiring company's responsibility to ensure its workers' well-being, reduce risks at work, ensure a pleasant work environment, and provide psychological support for professionals.

Resumen Se analizan factores que pueden generar enfermedades en el personal minero. El objetivo principal es describir los efectos nocivos tanto físicos como psicológicos que menoscaban la calidad de vida de estos trabajadores. Los empleadores tienen un papel importante para prevenir que en sus trabajadores se generen enfermedades laborales, lo que también aumentaría la productividad de las empresas. La metodología empleada se basa en la búsqueda de antecedentes en la bibliografía y en experiencias laborales en la minería chilena. Se empleó principalmente el motor de búsqueda PubMed. Se analizaron enfermedades producidas por: polvo en suspensión; humos de soldaduras; vibraciones; alzamiento de cargas pesadas; radiación ionizante de gammagrafías; altos niveles de ruidos; depresión, agotamiento y estrés. Los efectos serían: silicosis; pulmón de soldador; lesiones en el sistema músculo esquelético; cáncer producido por rayos gamma; pérdida de audición; problemas de equilibrio; mareos; dificultades para dormir; depresión; estrés laboral; trastornos a nivel familiar y en los peores casos suicidios. Así, teniendo un conocimiento actualizado de las causas se pueden definir mejores planes de prevención. Se concluye la aparición de afecciones físicas bien definidas, pero también importantes problemas psicológicos provenientes de la tensión laboral que afectan también a las familias, algunas veces con consecuencias fatales. También sería responsabilidad de la empresa contratante, el velar por el bienestar de sus trabajadores para reducir los riesgos en el trabajo, así como velar por un ambiente de trabajo agradable, y suministrar apoyo psicológico de profesionales.

Resumo A composição orgânica do 65 °% dos resíduos sólidos urbanos do Distrito Metropolitano de Quito provém de restos de alimentos, o qual provoca efeitos negativos ao meio ambiente. O objetivo dessa investigação foi avaliar os fatores incidentes no desperdício de alimentos nos lares da capital e caracterizar a gestão dos resíduos sólidos urbanos. A pesquisa foi quantitativa e exploratória. Fez-se uma análise de associação das variáveis principais com o cálculo do chi-quadrado estatístico e uma avaliação da correlação policórica. Usaram-se análises estadísticos descritivos e multiescala do foco do metabolismo social para caracterizar a gestão dos resíduos. Destacou-se a relação do gasto para a compra de alimentos e bebidas não alcoólicas no último mês -rendas do lar no último mês (p valor < 5 %). Entre os anos 2012-2021, a mediana mais representativa de geração de resíduos foi da administração Eugenio Espejo, com 141 470 t/ano, e uma taxa metabólica de resíduos de 2,45E-05 t/ano. Em contraste, a administração Tumbaco teve 30 217 t/ano e 1,22E-05 t/ano, respetivamente.

Abstract The organic composition of 65 °% of urban solid waste of the Metropolitan District of Quito originates from food waste, which has negative environmental effects. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the factors related to food waste in homes in the capital and characterize urban solid waste management. The study is quantitative and exploratory. An association analysis was performed for the main categorical variables through calculation of statistical chi squared and an assessment of polychoric relation. A descriptive and multi-scale statistical analyses were performed for focus of the social metabolism to characterize waste management. A noteworthy element was the relation between expenses for purchase of food and non-alcoholic beverages in the last month-household income in the last month (p value < 5 %). Between 2012-2021, the most representative median for waste generation corresponded to the Eugenio Espejo administration, with 141470 t/ year, with a metabolic waste rate of 2.45E-05 (t/year). On the other hand, the Tumbaco administration obtained 30217 t/year and 1.22E-05 t/year, respectively.

Resumen La composición orgánica del 65 % de residuos sólidos urbanos del Distrito Metropolitano de Quito proviene de restos de alimentos, lo que provoca efectos medioambientales negativos. El propósito de esta investigación es evaluar los factores que inciden en el desperdicio de alimentos en los hogares capitalinos y caracterizar la gestión de sus residuos sólidos urbanos. La investigación es cuantitativa de tipo exploratoria. Se realizó un análisis de asociación entre las principales variables categóricas mediante el cálculo del estadístico chi-cuadrado y una evaluación de correlación policórica. Se aplicaron análisis estadístico descriptivo y multiescala del enfoque del metabolismo social para caracterizar la gestión de residuos. Destaca la relación entre el gasto en compra de alimentos y bebidas no alcohólicas en el último mes -ingreso del hogar en el último mes (p valor < 5 %). Entre 2012-2021, la mediana más representativa de generación de residuos corresponde a la administración Eugenio Espejo, con 141 470 t/año, y su tasa metabólica de residuos de 2,45E-05 t/año. En contraste, la administración Tumbaco obtuvo 30 217 t/año y 1,22E-05 t/año, respectivamente.

Abstract Introduction In clinical practice, patients with the same degree and configuration of hearing loss, or even with normal audiometric thresholds, present substantially different performances in terms of speech perception. This probably happens because other factors, in addition to auditory sensitivity, interfere with speech perception. Thus, studies are needed to investigate the performance of listeners in unfavorable listening conditions to identify the processes that interfere in the speech perception of these subjects. Objective To verify the influence of age, temporal processing, and working memory on speech recognition in noise. Methods Thirty-eight adult and elderly individuals with normal hearing thresholds participated in the study. Participants were divided into two groups: The adult group (G1), composed of 10 individuals aged 21 to 33 years, and the elderly group (G2), with 28 participants aged 60 to 81 years. They underwent audiological assessment with the Portuguese Sentence List Test, Gaps-in-Noise test, Digit Span Memory test, Running Span Task, Corsi Block-Tapping test, and Visual Pattern test. Results The Running Span Task score proved to be a statistically significant predictor of the listening-in-noise variable. This result showed that the difference in performance between groups G1 and G2 in relation to listening in noise is due not only to aging, but also to changes in working memory. Conclusion The study showed that working memory is a predictor of listening performance in noise in individuals with normal hearing, and that this task can provide important information for investigation in individuals who have difficulty hearing in unfavorable environments. practice loss factors sensitivity Thus subjects age processing Thirtyeight Thirty eight G1, G , (G1) 1 2 3 years G2, (G2) 6 8 Test GapsinNoise Gaps Noise test BlockTapping Block Tapping listeninginnoise variable aging environments (G1 (G2 (G