A framework for robustness assessment in the context of corroded RC structures

Structural robustness is an emergent concept related to the structural response to damage. At the present time, robustness is not well defined and much controversy still remains around this subject. Even if robustness has seen growing interest as a consequence of catastrophic consequences due to extreme events, the fact is that the concept can also be very useful when considered on more probable exposure scenarios such as deterioration, among others. This paper intends to be a contribution to the definition of structural robustness, especially in the analysis of reinforced concrete structures subjected to corrosion. To achieve this, first of all, several proposed robustness definitions and indicators and misunderstood concepts will be analyzed and compared. From this point and regarding a concept that could be applied to most type of structures and dam-age scenarios, a robustness definition is proposed. To illustrate the proposed concept, an example of corroded reinforced concrete structures will be analyzed using nonlinear analysis numerical methods based on a contin-uum strong discontinuities approach and isotropic damage models for concrete. Finally the robustness of the presented example will be assessed.

Assessment of the rapid test based on an immunochromatography technique for detecting anti-Treponema pallidum antibodies

A rapid test based on an immunochromatography assay - Determine™ Syphilis TP (Abbott Lab.) for detecting specific antibodies to Treponema pallidum was evaluated against serum samples from patients with clinical, epidemiological and serological diagnosis of syphilis, patients with sexually transmitted disease other than syphilis, and individuals with negative serology for syphilis. The Determine™ test presented the sensitivity of 93.6%, specificity of 92.5%, and positive predictive value and negative predictive value of 95.2% and 93.7%, respectively. One serum sample from patient with recent latent syphilis showed a prozone reaction. Determine™ is a rapid assay, highly specific and easy to perform. This technique obviates the need of equipment and its diagnostic features demonstrate that it may be applicable as an alternative assay for syphilis screening under some emergency conditions or for patients living in remote localities.

Assessment of chloroquine single dose treatment of malaria due to Plasmodium vivax in Brazilian Amazon

Malaria regions of the Amazon basin have been characterized by difficult access and non-compliance of the patients to treatment. In an attempt to assess the schizonticide efficacy of chloroquine in a single dose of 600 mg, the authors realized a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in 132 outpatients with vivax malaria. Patients were distributed into two groups: group CPLA, given chloroquine 600 mg (single dose) on the first day of treatment, and two doses of placebo on second and third days. Group CHLO, given chloroquine 600 mg on first day and 450 mg on second and third day. Geometric means of the parasite density during the follow-up was similar in both groups. No differences were observed in the parasitological cure between the two groups (p = 0.442). There was clinical and parasitological efficacy in treatment of patients given a single-dose of chloroquine. This suggests that its restricted use could be indicated in remote areas of Brazilian Amazon Region, nevertheless the inadequate response of three patients indicates the need for further studies.

Protecção radiológica do doente em tomografia computorizada

RESUMO - A preocupação com os conhecimentos, atitudes, crenças e práticas, no que concerne à utilização de radiações ionizantes para fins de diagnóstico, e a sensibilização de todos os agentes envolvidos, médicos, técnicos, físicos, utentes e responsáveis pela Saúde Publica, relativamente aos níveis de radiação emitida nos exames de Tomografia Computorizada (TC), assume particular importância no domínio da Saúde Pública, na medida em que é necessário influenciar o desenvolvimento de práticas que promovam, auditem e garantam a prestação do controlo da qualidade radiológica e dosimétrica nos serviços de Radiologia a nível Nacional. Para tal, e no âmbito da publicação de estudos já realizados ao nível da União Europeia, ―Orientações Europeias dos Critérios de Qualidade para a Tomografia Computorizada (1999) ‖, é proposto estabelecer orientações na realização de estudos que permitam, numa primeira fase, estabelecer a comparação com os resultados obtidos pelos mecanismos de Controlo da Qualidade (CQ), analisar e proceder aos ajustes (se necessário) e, numa segunda fase, implementar uma moldura sistemática de avaliação periódica dos níveis de dose de radiação por exame TC e que permita a monitorização dos dados. Nesse sentido, propõe-se a realização de um Estudo Nacional que envolva a rede hospitalar pública, privada e universitária, partindo da metodologia utilizada em estudos prévios noutros países da Europa, como seja, selecção do equipamento de TC existente na Instituição Hospitalar, onde serão reunidas informações através do preenchimento de questionários relativos ao equipamento a utilizar. Serão recolhidos dados relativos ao utente, ao equipamento e parâmetros de aquisição de imagem, que permitam identificar os níveis de referência de diagnóstico (NRD) em TC, na realidade Portuguesa. Foi efectuado um estudo piloto numa instituição EPE e os valores obtidos não são significativos, nem podem assumir valor preditivo dado o reduzido tamanho da amostra. Apesar disso, sugerem a existência de parâmetros que podem ser alterados e com isso podem fazer variar a dose de radiação utilizada. ENSP/UNL Maria de Fátima Vaz de Carvalho 5 Espera-se obter com este estudo, como foi referido, a base do estabelecimento dos NRD em TC em Portugal. ----------------- ABSTRACT - The purpose of this study, in an empirical point of view, emerges from concern with the knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and practices regarding the use of ionizing radiation for diagnostic purposes and awareness of all actors involved, medical physical, technical, and responsible public health for the development of practices that promote, audited and ensure the provision of radiological quality control and dosing in radiology service at national level. In view of the complexity and characteristics involved in relation to ionizing radiation, all assume their part in protecting the physical integrity of each user and a global perspective, to ensure the safeguarding of public health, while global and globalizing factor. To this end, and in the context of the publication of studies already carried out at European Union level, "European guidelines for quality criteria for computed tomography", it is proposed to establish guidelines in conducting studies to initially establish the comparison with the results obtained by QC and make adjustments if necessary, and subsequently implement a systematic periodic assessment frame that allows monitoring of data. Accordingly, it is proposed to conduct a national study involving the public network, private and University hospitals, that extends from the methodology used in previous studies in other countries of Europe, as is, selection of equipment of existing CT in Hospital Institution, where information will be gathered by filling out questionnaires concerning the equipment to be used. Data will be collected for the wearer, equipment and parameters of image acquisition, identifying diagnostic reference levels (NRD) in CT in Portuguese fact. A pilot study was carried out in an institution EPE and the values obtained are not significant, nor can they take predictive value given the small sample size. Despite this, suggest the existence of parameters that can be changed and this can vary the dose of radiation used It is hoped to get with this study, as mentioned, the basis of the establishment of NRD in CT in Portugal.

Fatigue life assessment of exhaust systems for naval gas turbines

Dissertação para obtenção do Grau de Mestre em Engenharia Mecânica

E-assessment in mathematics courses with multiple-choice questions tests

With the implementation of the Bologna Process several challenges have been posed to higher education institution, particularly in Portugal. One of the main implications is related to the change of the paradigm of a teacher centered education, to a paradigm that is student centered. This change implies the change of the way to assess courses in higher education institutions. Continuous and formative assessments emerged as the focus, catalyzed by electronic assessment, or e-assessment. This paper presents a case of the implementation of an e-assessment strategy, implemented in order to allow continuous, formative assessment in numerous mathematics classes using multiple-choice questions tests implement in Moodle open-source learning management system. The implementation can be considered a success.

E-assessment in mathematics courses with multiple-choice questions tests

With the implementation of the Bologna Process several challenges have been posed to higher education institution, particularly in Portugal. One of the main implications is related to the change of the paradigm of a teacher centered education, to a paradigm that is student centered. This change implies the change of the way to assess courses in higher education institutions. Continuous and formative assessments emerged as the focus, catalyzed by electronic assessment, or e-assessment. This paper presents a case of the implementation of an e-assessment strategy, implemented in order to allow continuous, formative assessment in numerous mathematics classes using multiple-choice questions tests implement in Moodle open-source learning management system. The implementation can be considered a success.

Clinical laboratory assessment of hepatitis C and HIV coinfected patients according to the antiretroviral therapy received

During the year of 2001, a retrospective, descriptive study in order to determine the influence of the antiretroviral therapy received by 111 HIV-HCV coinfected patients who had undergone at least one liver biopsy was conduced, 74 of them were treated with a protease inhibitor regimen (WPI), and 37 with a non-protease inhibitor regimen (NPI). The main characteristics found were: a young patient population (mean age 41 years old in both groups), composed in most part of male individuals (74.3% WPI and 51.4% NPI) with previous risk factors for both infections (WPI 93.2% and NPI 89.2%). The most significant findings included AIDS-defining disease (WPI 18.9% and NPI 13.5% of the cases), elevated hepatic enzyme levels (WPI: SGOT 52.1 and NPI 53.2), absence of liver disease-related symptoms (16.2% for both groups), average CD4 count > 350 for both groups (WPI 362.2 and NPI 378.1), predominantly low-grade fibrosis in both populations (0-2 in 63.6% of WPI patients and in 80% of NPI patients), with necro-inflammatory activity ranging from 5-7 in 51.3% and 42.9% of WPI patients and NPI patients, respectively. It is suggested a sequential biopsy to better evaluate the evolution of the hepatic disease, according to the HAART regimen received.

Life Cycle Assessment of the Hybrid Vehicle – Toyota Prius

Die Luftverschmutzung, die globale Erwärmung sowie die Verknappung der endlichen Ressourcen sind die größten Bedenken der vergangenen Jahrzehnte. Die Nachfrage nach jeglicher Mobilität steigt rapide. Dementsprechend bemüht ist die Automobilindustrie Lösungen für Mobilität unter dem Aspekt der Nachhaltigkeit und dem Umweltschutz anzubieten. Die Elektrifizierung hat sich hierbei als der beste Weg herausgestellt, um die Umweltprobleme sowie die Abhängigkeit von fossilen Brennstoffen zu lösen. Diese Arbeit soll einen Einblick über die Umweltauswirkungen des Hybridfahrzeuges Toyota Prius geben. Hierbei findet eine Gliederung in vier verschiedene Lebensphasen statt. Im Anschluss bietet die Sachbilanz die Möglichkeit die Umweltauswirkungen mit verschiedenen Antriebsmöglichkeiten und Brennstoffen zu vergleichen. Das Modell hat gezeigt, dass der Toyota Prius während der Nutzung einen hohen Einfluss auf das Treibhauspotenzial aufweist. Durch die Nutzung anderer Brennstoffe, wie beispielsweise Ethanol oder Methanol lassen sich die Auswirkungen am Treibhauspotenzial sowie der Verbrauch an abiotischen Ressourcen reduzieren. Vergleicht man die Elektromobilität mit der konventionellen, so ist festzustellen, dass diese Art der Mobilität die derzeit beste Möglichkeit zur Reduzierung der Umweltbelastungen bietet. Die Auswirkungen der Elektromobilität sind im hohen Maße abhängig von der Art des verwendeten Strommixes.

Self-assessment of writing skills: a reliable and valid tool in an efl classroom

Trabalho de projecto apresentado para cumprimento dos requisitos necessários à obtenção do grau de Mestre em Ensino da Língua Inglesa

Assessment of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and analgesic pharmaceuticals in seawaters of North of Portugal: Occurrence and environmental risk

The occurrence of seven pharmaceuticals and two metabolites belonging to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and analgesics therapeutic classes was studied in seawaters. A total of 101 samples covering fourteen beaches and five cities were evaluated in order to assess the spatial distribution of pharmaceuticals among north Portuguese coast. Seawaters were selected in order to embrace different bathing water quality (excellent, good and sufficient). Acetaminophen, ketoprofen and the metabolite hydroxyibuprofen were detected in all the seawater samples at maximum concentrations of 584, 89.7 and 287 ng L− 1, respectively. Carboxyibuprofen had the highest seawater concentration (1227 ng L− 1). The temporal distribution of the selected pharmaceuticals during the bathing season showed that, in general, higher concentrations were detected in August and September. The environmental risk posed by the pharmaceuticals detected in seawaters towards different trophic levels (fish, daphnids and algae) was also assessed. Only diclofenac showed hazard quotients above one for fish, representing a potential risk for aquatic organisms. These results were observed in seawaters classified as excellent bathing water. Additional data is needed in order to support the identification and prioritization of risks posed by pharmaceuticals in marine environment.

Assessment of groundwater contamination in an agricultural peri-urban area (NW Portugal): an integrated approach

The excessive use of pesticides and fertilisers in agriculture has generated a decrease in groundwater and surface water quality in many regions of the EU, constituting a hazard for human health and the environment. Besides, on-site sewage disposal is an important source of groundwater contamination in urban and peri-urban areas. The assessment of groundwater vulnerability to contamination is an important tool to fulfil the demands of EU Directives. The purpose of this study is to assess the groundwater vulnerability to contamination related mainly to agricultural activities in a peri-urban area (Vila do Conde, NW Portugal). The hydrogeological framework is characterised mainly by fissured granitic basement and sedimentary cover. Water samples were collected and analysed for temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, chloride, phosphate, nitrate and nitrite. An evaluation of groundwater vulnerability to contamination was applied (GOD-S, Pesticide DRASTIC-Fm, SINTACS and SI) and the potential nitrate contamination risk was assessed, both on a hydrogeological GIS-based mapping. A principal component analysis was performed to characterised patterns of relationship among groundwater contamination, vulnerability, and the hydrogeological setting assessed. Levels of nitrate above legislation limits were detected in 75 % of the samples analysed. Alluvia units showed the highest nitrate concentrations and also the highest vulnerability and risk. Nitrate contamination is a serious problem affecting groundwater, particularly shallow aquifers, especially due to agriculture activities, livestock and cesspools. GIS-based cartography provided an accurate way to improve knowledge on water circulation models and global functioning of local aquifer systems. Finally, this study highlights the adequacy of an integrated approach, combining hydrogeochemical data, vulnerability assessments and multivariate analysis, to understand groundwater processes in peri-urban areas.

Diabetic Foot Infections: Current Diagnosis and Treatment

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a global epidemic, and diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is one of its most serious and costly complications. DFUs result from a complex interaction of a number of risk factors. Once the protective layer of skin is broken, deep tissues are exposed to bacterial infection that progresses rapidly. Patients with DFUs frequently require amputations of the lower limbs and, in more than half the cases, infection is the preponderant factor. Given the challenges of treating these complex infections, this paper aims to provide a hospital-based framework for the diagnosis and treatment of diabetic foot infections (DFIs). We propose a treatment-oriented assessment of DFIs based on a cross-examination of the medical, foot, and wound history; a systemized and detailed physical examination; and the results of complementary diagnostic procedures. We stress the need for a clinical diagnosis of DFIs and the importance of microbiological evaluation for antibiotic therapy guidance. Regarding treatment, we propose a multidisciplinary approach prioritizing invasive infection drainage, necrosis debridement, and the prompt start of empirical antibiotic therapy, followed by complete and appropriate vascular reconstruction. For severe DFIs, we suggest that negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) be included in the treatment pathway. We also provide rules for managing particular situations, such as osteomyelitis. It is our hope that this protocol will improve the hospital management of DFIs and, ultimately, the prognosis of DFI patients.

Damage assessment of fibre reinforced laminates

The use of solid wastes and natural fibres to the production of innovative composites is now a matter of environmental need. A set of hybrid composites constituted of waste rubber particles and sugarcane bagasse fibres into a thermoset composite material are drilled to determine the effect of rubber particle addition and size, sugarcane fibre addition and length and fibre chemical treatment on damage extension and related mechanical properties. Damage extension is determined by enhanced radiography for further damage measurement – diameter and areas – and correlated with mechanical test results — bearing test. The results demonstrated significant effect of the rubber and fibre additions on mechanical properties of the composites.