ACI Avances en Ciencias e Ingenierías
type: channel
description: ACI Avances en Ciencias e Ingenierías is an international, multidisciplinary, diamond open-access scientific journal that publishes two issues per year (May and December) in English and Spanish. It publishes original research, reviews, and communications in sciences and engineering, promoting methodological rigor, transparent peer review, and open science practices. The journal prioritizes interdisciplinary contributions within STEM and aims to expand international knowledge exchange with broader social impact. Before submission, authors must ensure that their manuscript aligns with the aims and scope of the journal. ISSNe: 2528-7788 ISSN: 1390-5384 Editorial: USFQ PRESS
publisher: USFQ PRESS
language: en
publication name: ACI Avances en Ciencias e Ingenierías
issn: 1390-5384
copyright: Copyright notice Authors who publish in the journal ACI Avances en Ciencias e Ingenierías accept the following terms: The authors will retain their copyright and guarantee the journal the right of first publication of their work, which will be simultaneously subject to the Creative Commons Attribution License that allows third parties to share the work provided that its author and its first publication in this journal is indicated. Authors may adopt other non-exclusive license agreements for the distribution of the published version of the work, thereby being able to publish it in a monographic volume or reproduce it in other ways, provided that the initial publication in this journal is indicated. Authors are permitted and advised to disseminate their work over the Internet: Before submission to the journal, authors can deposit the manuscript in pre-publication files/repositories (preprint servers/repositories), including arXiv, bioRxiv, figshare, PeerJ Preprints, SSRN, and others, which can produce interesting exchanges and increase citations of the published work (see The effect of open access). After submission, it is recommended that authors deposit their article in their institutional repository, personal website, or scientific social network (such as Zenodo, ResearchGate or edu).
items: Microcracking of reinforcing bars used in informal housing construction: Riobamba case study
items: Generation of liquid fuels through the pyrolysis process from polypropylene and polystyrene for energy utilization
items: Sustainable ethylene production in Ecuador: Comparative analysis between naphtha cracking and biomass-based processes using Andean potato waste
items: Activity patterns of the Andean cottontail Sylvilagus andinus (Lagomorpha: Leporidae) in a peri-urban context in a ravine in Puembo, Quito valley, Ecuador
items: Design, Analysis and Comparison of Hybrid and Non-Pneumatic Tyres
items: Light-frame wood shear walls: A review of the state-of-the-art
items: Mechanical characterization of a material composed of polyester resin reinforced with eucalyptus bark
items: Design and validation of a detection system for the electromagnetic component of cosmic rays detection of using log-periodic antennas
items: Characterization of HIV drug resistance profiles in patients at a healthcare center in Quito: “A pilot study”
items: Photosynthetic organisms and water quality in Amazonian rivers, case study Yacuambi, Zamora Chinchipe
items: Biopolymers and Nanotechnology: eco-friendly and sustainable alternative in Enhanced Oil Recovery
items: Mechanical characterization of mode I fracture toughnessin multidirectional printed continuous fiber laminates.
items: The contribution of mutation induction to crop improvement: Addressing climate change and ensuring food security
items: Analysis of combined intracantonal public transportation at the Río Coca Terminal: A bibliographic review
items: First predation record of the Galapagos Hawk Buteo galapagoensis (Accipitriformes: Accipitridae), on a feral cat Felis catus (Carnivora: Felidae)
items: Optimization of sourness and flavor in orange-flavored gummy candies using a simplex-lattice mixture design implemented with R
items: An Act of Resistance: The Role of Local Journals
items: PoI+NBU: A Feasibility study in Generating High-Resolution Adversarial Images with a Black Box Evolutional Algorithm based Attack
items: Effect of corn and cassava silage on the economic and productive performance of hair creole sheep (Ovis aries)
items: From waste to biopolymers: anaerobic fermentation as a sustainable pathway for polyhydroxyalkanoates production
items: Towards a Definition of Computing Continuum
items: Modelación del ruido por tráfico vehicular en la calle Mariscal Lamar en la ciudad de Cuenca
items: Relationships Process, Microstructure, Properties of Hard Chromium Plating in Laboratory Scale
items: Caracterización morfológica y agronómica de dos genotipos de maíz (Zea mays L.) en la zona media de la parroquia Malchinguí
items: Evaluating the Role of Urban Planning and Proximity Factors in Occupational Disease Transmission in Meat Processing Zones in Aba
items: Consensus solution of the focal mechanism of the MW 8.8 earthquake in Kamchatka and the resulting seismic deformation fields
items: Unbalance in ac motors with variable speed
items: Geographic distribution of Manduca moths (Sphingidae) in Ecuador: Agroecological roles and management implications
items: The real origin of the COVID-19 Pandemic
items: Beyond the Turing test: the human role in the future of science

Microcracking of reinforcing bars used in informal housing construction: Riobamba case study
type: item
description: This study investigates the relationship between the method used to bend reinforcing bars and the initiation of microcracks in reinforcing steel used in informal housing in the city of Riobamba, Ecuador. Two bending techniques were compared: the traditional method and the method carried out in accordance with Standard NTE INEN 2167. Field surveys were used to identify the most commonly used rebar diameters and bending practices. Twenty samples of 10 mm and 12 mm diameter rebars were analyzed, including straight sections and rebars bent at 180°, using metallographic tests and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results show the absence of microcracks in the unbent samples and in those bent with a semi-automatic machine under standard conditions, while traditional bending generates microcracks located in the inner area of the bend, associated with stress concentrations in the longitudinal ridges. Analysis of the cumulative length of microcracks indicates that the diameter of the bar has a significant influence on the level of microcracking under the conditions studied. The findings highlight the importance of complying with standard bending procedures to preserve the ductility of reinforcing steel and improve the performance of reinforced concrete structures under cyclic loads in informal construction contexts.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: quality
  topic: keywords
subject: Concrete
  topic: keywords
subject: metallography
  topic: keywords
subject: microcracking
  topic: keywords
subject: microscopy
  topic: keywords
subject: bending techniques of reinforcing rods
  topic: subjects
subject: level of microcracking
  topic: subjects
subject: Civil Engineering
  topic: disciplines
creator: Evelyn Cabrera Alvarez
creator: Teresa Sáez Paguay
creator: Luisa Viera Arroba
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Evelyn Melisa Cabrera Alvarez, Teresa del Pilar Sáez Paguay, Luisa Paulina Viera Arroba https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-04-28
publication date: 2026-04-28
doi: 10.18272/aci.3875

Generation of liquid fuels through the pyrolysis process from polypropylene and polystyrene for energy utilization
type: item
description: To valorize polypropylene (PP) y polystyrene (PS) waste by generating liquid fuels, a pyrolysis process was conducted using a horizontal fixed-bed Shaftherm reactor. Temperature ramps of 500, 600, y 700°C with times of 60, 90, y 120 minutes were used. At temperatures below 500°C, the process was incomplete, yielding only melted polymer. Starting from 500°C, the process was complete, improving with reaction time. For PP, a liquid fraction yield of 56,97% at 500°C y 60 minutes was recovered, increasing to 86,64% at 700°C. For PS, the best yields were obtained at 600°C, with recoveries between 90,36% y 92,63% at 90 minutes. The liquid fractions from PP at 500°C, containing C2-C10 hydrocarbons, resemble commercial extra gasoline C4-C10, while the PS fractions are rich in styrene y C2-C18 chains. Highlighting their high energy potential, PP showed a calorific value between 42 236,64 kJ/kg y 45 005,34 kJ/kg, y PS between 37 401,38 kJ/kg y 43 107,50 kJ/kg. The comparative analysis of the calorific value between the generated liquid fractions y commercial fuels (diésel y gasoline) demonstrated that the obtained products have high potential as energy sources, with PP having a higher calorific value than diésel y extra gasoline. Quality results, such as density y viscosity, were encouraging for industrial applications, y chromatographic analysis revealed the presence of valuable compounds, suggesting their potential use in the chemical industry. Although some parameters did not meet INEN standards, the liquid fractions show significant similarities with commercial fuels, suggesting their viability as an alternative energy source.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Pyrolysis
  topic: keywords
subject: Polypropylene
  topic: keywords
subject: Polystyrene
  topic: keywords
subject: Calorific Value
  topic: keywords
subject: Liquid Fuels
  topic: keywords
subject: Environmental
  topic: disciplines
subject: Engineering
  topic: disciplines
subject: Chemical Engineering
  topic: disciplines
subject: Energy
  topic: disciplines
subject: Fuels
  topic: disciplines
subject: Petrochemistry
  topic: disciplines
subject: Pyrolysis
  topic: disciplines
creator: Bryan Montalvo Verduga
creator: Nicole L. Roman Roman
creator: Diana K. Fabara Salazar
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Bryan Montalvo Verduga https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-12-12
publication date: 2025-12-12
doi: 10.18272/aci.3797

Sustainable ethylene production in Ecuador: Comparative analysis between naphtha cracking and biomass-based processes using Andean potato waste
type: item
description: Ecuador, a country highly dependent on its oil industry, faces the need to import petroleum derivatives due to the lack of a developed petrochemical sector. This study comparatively assesses the technical, economic, and environmental feasibility of three routes for ethylene production, focusing on more sustainable and environmentally friendly processes. The first, the traditional linear process based on thermal cracking of naphtha, is noted for its technological maturity and lower initial costs, but operates under the "extract, produce, dispose" sequence, leading to a high environmental impact due to the substantial energy required and significant greenhouse gas emissions. In contrast, the two proposed circular routes utilize potato agricultural waste as biomass for bio-ethylene production: (a) fermentation to obtain bioethanol followed by catalytic dehydration and (b) electrocatalysis of methane derived from residual biomass. The study's results indicate that while these routes face technical and economic challenges, such as low yields, additional equipment for raw material processing, and higher initial costs, they offer environmental benefits aligned with green chemistry principles, including carbon emission reduction, use of renewable raw materials, and increased energy efficiency. Of the two circular processes analyzed, fermentation is considered the more applicable option due to biomass availability and process maturity in the local industry, despite having a cost 2.6 times higher than the linear process. While naphtha-based ethylene production remains the most viable in economic and technological terms, the development of a sustainable bio-ethylene industry still faces challenges in scalability, yields, and high initial costs but would allow the valorization of agricultural waste, diversifying the country's production matrix and positioning Ecuador as a leader in green innovation in Latin America.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: bio-ethylene
  topic: keywords
subject: biomass
  topic: keywords
subject: catalytic dehydration
  topic: keywords
subject: electrocatalysis
  topic: keywords
subject: potato
  topic: keywords
subject: waste valorization
  topic: keywords
subject: Circular Engineering
  topic: disciplines
subject: Chemical Engineering
  topic: disciplines
subject: Environmental Engineering
  topic: disciplines
creator: Gabriel Vaca
creator: Sonia Quiroga Quisaguano1
creator: Kimberly Rizzo
creator: Dimas Pincay
creator: José Alvarez-Barreto
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Gabriel Vaca, Sonia Quiroga Quisaguano, Kimberly Rizzo, Dimas Pincay, José Alvarez-Barreto https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-02-09
publication date: 2026-02-09
doi: 10.18272/aci.3736

Activity patterns of the Andean cottontail Sylvilagus andinus (Lagomorpha: Leporidae) in a peri-urban context in a ravine in Puembo, Quito valley, Ecuador
type: item
description: The urban ravines in Quito, Ecuador, harbor the last remnant vegetation of the city but face increasing pressure from urbanization and introduced predators. We analyzed the daily activity patterns of the Andean cottontail (Sylvilagus andinus) in a ravine of the Chiche River (Puembo, Quito) using camera-traps at night between February and September 2025, and after 304 trapping nights, a total of 176 rabbit records were obtained. Cottontails were mainly nocturnal, with peak activity between 2:00 and 3:00am, and showed a significant seasonal shift, with activity concentrated in the early evening (6:30-7:30pm) during the rainy season and extending later during the night (2:00-4:00am) in the dry season. Temporal overlap with introduced predators such as dogs and cats was moderate but our data is most likely not representative, as it is based on few events (n=5). Our findings suggest that S. andinus varies from its main temporal activity, responding to seasonal and possibly anthropogenic factors in these urban ravines. This study establishes a baseline for future research on native mammals living in urbanization processes in Andean cities such as Quito.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Andean cottontail
  topic: keywords
subject: Urban Ecology
  topic: keywords
subject: Activity patterns
  topic: keywords
subject: Camera trapping
  topic: keywords
subject: Quito
  topic: keywords
subject: Seasonality
  topic: keywords
subject: Introduced predators
  topic: keywords
subject: Ecuador
  topic: keywords
subject: Temporal overlap
  topic: keywords
subject: Urban Ecology
  topic: subjects
subject: Activity patterns
  topic: subjects
subject: Camera trapping
  topic: subjects
subject: Andean cottontail
  topic: subjects
subject: Ecology
  topic: disciplines
subject: Urban ecology
  topic: disciplines
subject: Mastozoology
  topic: disciplines
subject: Zoology
  topic: disciplines
subject: Biology and Environment
  topic: disciplines
subject: Biology
  topic: disciplines
subject: Environmental sciences
  topic: disciplines
creator: Elias Viteri Basso
creator: Rebecca Zug
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Elias Viteri-Basso, Rebecca Zug https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-03-25
publication date: 2026-03-25
doi: 10.18272/aci.4063

Design, Analysis and Comparison of Hybrid and Non-Pneumatic Tyres
type: item
description: Non-Pneumatic Tires, or airless tires, are load-bearing tires that do not require air pressure for that purpose they employ flexible spokes made of thermoplastic Polyurethane. NPTs are characterized by elastic spokes, durability, and resistance to wear, which makes them quite preferable for military, defense, industrial, and space vehicle applications. However, they are somewhat limited in their ability to absorb shocks and comfort, thus limiting their application in commercial vehicles. Hybrid tires provide a solution that unites the merits of NPTs and conventional pneumatic tires. They consist of flexible spokes together with pressurized air, thus giving them properties from both sides-NPTs durability and comfort of a conventional tire. This study is highly focused and presents a comparison of NPTs and hybrid tires. Finite Element Analysis of both models indicates that with respect to strength and comfort, hybrid tires fare very well for civilian vehicles, though their strength may be slightly less than that of NPTs.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Structural Analysis
  topic: keywords
subject: Spokes
  topic: keywords
subject: finite element analysis
  topic: keywords
subject: Hybrid Tire
  topic: keywords
subject: Non-Pneumatic Tires
  topic: keywords
subject: Mechanical Engineering
  topic: disciplines
subject: Automotive
  topic: disciplines
subject: Structural Mechanics
  topic: disciplines
creator: Shamsher Ali
creator: Syed Aliyar Shah
creator: Moiz Ahmad
creator: Syed Muhammad Zain
creator: Ahsan Rehman Khan
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Shamsher Ali, Syed Aliyar Shah, Moiz Ahmad, Syed Muhammad Zain, Ahsan Rehman Khan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-12-20
publication date: 2025-12-20
doi: 10.18272/aci.3909

Light-frame wood shear walls: A review of the state-of-the-art
type: item
description: Due to the damage caused to timber structures during the 1994 Northridge earthquake, research focused on understanding, designing, and improving the seismic response of lightweight timber framed shear walls has experienced a remarkable growth. The main objective of this state-of-the-art review article is to synthesize the innovations and findings found during the last decade, which are detailed in research articles found in the ScienceDirect database. In order to provide a starting point to serve as a reference to explore future lines of research. The methodology indicated in the PRISMA statement has been adopted to give an adequate diagnosis of the bibliometric information found, additionally by using the VOSviewer tool bibliometric maps based on authors were made. It should be noted that aspects of fire resistance or other environmental factors have been excluded in this work. The presentation of the results is organized according to two key aspects identified in the literature: experimental studies and numerical modelling of light-framed walls.
subject: SECTION C: ENGINEERING
  topic: section
subject: #StudentAwards
  topic: category
subject: Timber structures
  topic: keywords
subject: bibliometric maps
  topic: keywords
subject: numerical models
  topic: keywords
subject: experimental tests
  topic: keywords
subject: nailed joints
  topic: keywords
subject: finite elements
  topic: keywords
subject: nonlinear behavior
  topic: keywords
subject: Civil Engineering
  topic: disciplines
creator: Jaime Joan Encalada Oña
creator: Lenin Geovanny Alvarez Prado
creator: Diego Marcelo Quizanga Martinez
creator: Luisa Paulina Viera Arroba
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Jaime Joan Encalada Oña, Lenin Alvarez, Diego Quizanga, Luisa Viera https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-04-15
publication date: 2024-04-15
starting page: 27
ending page: 27
doi: 10.18272/aci.v16i1.3270

Mechanical characterization of a material composed of polyester resin reinforced with eucalyptus bark
type: item
description: This study aims to evaluate the mechanical performance of a composite material manufactured with different proportions of polyester resin matrix and eucalyptus bark fiber reinforcement. Specimens were prepared with volumetric fractions of 90% matrix - 10% reinforcement, 80% matrix - 20% reinforcement, and 70% matrix - 30% reinforcement, with randomly distributed fibers. Tensile, flexural, and impact tests were conducted according to ASTM standards to determine the mechanical properties of the composite. The results showed a decrease in the tensile and flexural strength of the composite compared to the pure resin, which was attributed to the presence of stress concentrators and low adhesion between the fibers and the matrix. However, an increase in the elastic modulus and impact energy absorbed by the composite material was observed. The combination of 70% matrix and 30% reinforcement presented the best balance of mechanical properties among the different formulations studied. This study highlights the potential of natural fiber-reinforced composite materials as a sustainable alternative to synthetic fibers, taking advantage of the renewable resources available in Ecuador and reducing the environmental impact associated with the production of traditional composite materials. The obtained results contribute to the development of new ecological materials with applications in various industries, promoting the use of natural fibers and encouraging research in this field.
subject: SECTION C: ENGINEERING
  topic: section
subject: Section C - Engineering
  topic: category
subject: natural fiber reinforcement
  topic: keywords
subject: mechanical testing
  topic: keywords
subject: sustainable materials
  topic: keywords
subject: renewable resources
  topic: keywords
subject: eco-friendly composites
  topic: keywords
subject: polyester matrix
  topic: keywords
subject: eucalyptyus fiber
  topic: keywords
subject: ASTM standards
  topic: keywords
subject: green composites
  topic: keywords
subject: composite characterization
  topic: keywords
subject: Materials mechanics
  topic: disciplines
creator: Jimmy García
creator: Byron Darío Analuiza Hidalgo
creator: Wilson Gabriel Agualongo Amangandi
creator: Milton Xavier Remache Sasig
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Jimmy García, Byron Darío Analuiza Hidalgo, Wilson Gabriel Agualongo Amangandi, Milton Xavier Remache Sasig https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-09-04
publication date: 2024-09-04
starting page: ´21
ending page: ´21
doi: 10.18272/aci.v16i2.3353

Design and validation of a detection system for the electromagnetic component of cosmic rays detection of using log-periodic antennas
type: item
description: This study presents the design and evaluation of a detection system for the electromagnetic component of Extensive Air Showers (EAS) generated by ultra-high energy cosmic rays (UHECRs). The proposed approach employs log-periodic antennas and a software-defined radio (SDR) system for signal acquisition and analysis in the 20-80 MHz frequency range. Simulations were performed using ANSYS, and experimental tests with a vector network analyzer, yielding reflection coefficients below -10 dB. Data acquisition was performed via an SDR-based system, incorporating an automatic triggering mechanism and digital filtering. Data were collected over 47 days with a sampling frequency of 1 Hz. The results indicate the detection of signals in the 40-60 MHz range, showing temporal variability and patterns that suggest the presence of cosmic-ray-induced events. However, cross-validation with particle detectors is required to confirm these findings. This work demonstrates the feasibility of radio-based cosmic shower detection and highlights the necessity of integrating such systems with particle detector arrays to enhance event discrimination.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: ultra high energy cosmic rays (UHECRs)
  topic: keywords
subject: extensive air showers (EAS)
  topic: keywords
subject: software-defined radio (SDR)
  topic: keywords
subject: cosmic ray detection
  topic: keywords
subject: log-periodic dipole array antenna (LPDA)
  topic: keywords
subject: radio detection of cosmic rays
  topic: keywords
subject: cosmic ray
  topic: subjects
subject: antenna
  topic: subjects
subject: cosmic ray
  topic: disciplines
subject: antena
  topic: disciplines
creator: Henry Mayorga Pérez
creator: Alejandro Amagua Romero
creator: Hugo Moreno Aviles
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Henry Mayorga, Alejandro Amagua Romero, Hugo Moreno Aviles https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-01-28
publication date: 2026-01-28
doi: 10.18272/aci.3876

Characterization of HIV drug resistance profiles in patients at a healthcare center in Quito: “A pilot study”
type: item
description: HIV/AIDS is one of the most important chronic infectious diseases. Although ART therapies decreased morbidity and mortality considerably, new cases continue to appear. HIV-1 drug resistance is one of the most important problems that delay 95-95-95 goals. The presence of drug resistance mutations in naïve and ART-experienced patients is considered a risk factor for treatment failure and the transmission of HIV-1 resistance strains. A cross-sectional study included naïve and ART-experienced patients from one health care center in Quito-Ecuador in 2019 and 2021. Demographic data was collected with blood samples for sequencing, genotyping, and resistance tests. In 42 patients recruited, the overall prevalence of HIV-1 DRM was 9.5%, most related to NNRTI. A total of 42 mutations were found, 38.6% related to PIs, 34.09% to NNRTI/NRTIs, and 22.7% to INSTIs, most of them considered as minor or accessories, producing PLLR, LLR, and in one patient, HLR to NNRTIs. Although few drug resistance mutations that reduce ART susceptibility were identified, further studies are required to characterize HIV-1 drug resistance in Ecuador and its implications for clinical response.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: #StudentAwards
  topic: category
subject: HIV
  topic: keywords
subject: ART
  topic: keywords
subject: drug resistance
  topic: keywords
subject: HIV/AIDS
  topic: keywords
subject: NNRTI
  topic: keywords
subject: INSTI
  topic: keywords
subject: DRM
  topic: keywords
creator: Paulina Quirola Amores
creator: Pablo Espinosa
creator: Nelson Cevallos
creator: Enrique Terán
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Paulina Quirola Amores, Pablo Espinosa, Nelson Cevallos, Enrique Teran https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-07-04
publication date: 2025-07-04
doi: 10.18272/aci.v17i2.3298

Photosynthetic organisms and water quality in Amazonian rivers, case study Yacuambi, Zamora Chinchipe
type: item
description: Mining and livestock activities in the Yacuambi canton significantly alter the ecological conditions of aquatic bodies, particularly rivers and water sources used for human consumption. This study evaluated water quality using methods based on bioindicators, specifically phytoplankton, as a complementary approach to physicochemical assessments. Phytoplankton play a crucial role in the structure and primary production of aquatic ecosystems; therefore, analyzing their composition and structure serves as a biological indicator of water quality. In situ water samples were collected for both physicochemical analysis (pH, dissolved oxygen, conductivity, total dissolved solids, temperature, nitrates, and phosphates) and biological analysis (diatoms). In the laboratory, microscopy and quantification of phytoplanktonic cells were conducted, enabling the application of an index to determine water quality. The application of the General Diatom Index (GDI) revealed significant differences in water quality (p < 0.05) among the Santa Inés stream and the Yacuambi and El Salado rivers. In terms of abundance, individuals from the genera Microspora, Ulothrix, Navicula, Gomphonema, and Ulnaria were recorded. Temperature, dissolved oxygen, and conductivity were the variables that most differentiated the studied rivers (p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis revealed the formation of specific groups for each river, including phytoplankton organisms that serve as indicators of water quality and physicochemical variables, which together explained at least 69 % of the data variability in all cases.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: diatom
  topic: keywords
subject: bioindicators
  topic: keywords
subject: General Diatomological Index
  topic: keywords
subject: water quality
  topic: keywords
subject: Environmental
  topic: disciplines
subject: Biodiversity
  topic: disciplines
subject: Ecology
  topic: disciplines
subject: water quality
  topic: disciplines
creator: Alonso Cartuche
creator: Nikolay Aguirre
creator: Roberth Yaguana
creator: Roberto Bustillos
creator: Vinicio Alvarado
creator: Max Encalada
creator: Josselyn Balcazar
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Alonso Cartuche, Nikolay Aguirre, Roberth Yaguana , Roberto Bustillos, Vinicio Alvarado , Max Encalada , Josselyn Balcazar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-11-25
publication date: 2025-11-25
doi: 10.18272/aci.3835

Biopolymers and Nanotechnology: eco-friendly and sustainable alternative in Enhanced Oil Recovery
type: item
description: Biopolymers, natural and biodegradable materials, emerge as a promising and sustainable alternative in the oil industry, optimizing oil extraction in a profitable and environmentally friendly way These biopolymers, capable of improving the mobility ratio, increasing viscosity, and decreasing permeability, are emerging as a critical trend in Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR), with the potential to replace conventional synthetic polymers When selecting polymers for EOR, it is essential to consider factors such as cost, availability, and functional properties The methodology used in the research involved a systematic review of the scientific literature, encompassing a critical analysis of recent advances in biopolymer research for EOR The study also compares biopolymers and synthetic polymers, considering efficiency, cost, and environmental implications Additionally, the research explores the economic considerations associated with utilizing biopolymers in EOR, including cost factors and potential returns on investment Continuous innovation in using biopolymers is seen as the future of EOR, offering a more ecological and responsible alternative to exploit this important resource The choice of biopolymers contributes to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious oil industry.
subject: Review
  topic: section
subject: Artículos recientes
  topic: category
subject: biopolymers
  topic: keywords
subject: copolymerization
  topic: keywords
subject: enhanced oil recovery
  topic: keywords
subject: nanocomposites and hydrogels
  topic: keywords
creator: Edwars Naranjo
creator: Inés Hernández Guerra
creator: Lourdes Orejuela-Escobar
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Edwars Naranjo, Inés Hernández Guerra, Lourdes Orejuela-Escobar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-06-13
publication date: 2025-06-13
doi: 10.18272/aci.v17i2.3424

Mechanical characterization of mode I fracture toughnessin multidirectional printed continuous fiber laminates.
type: item
description: The delamination failure mechanism between layers is one of the most critical in laminated fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites, a phenomenon that has driven numerous research efforts. While a large body of literature focuses on this issue in unidirectional laminates, in-service conditions often lead to fracture initiation and propagation at interfaces with different fiber orientations. This study presents the experimental characterization of mode I fracture toughness in a continuous fiber composite manufactured through Additive Manufacturing (AM), defining configurations with multidirectional interfaces. The laminate design process for Double Cantilever Beam (DCB) specimens is detailed, ensuring stable and planar crack propagation. The proposed design methodology is validated through mechanical testing, employing laminate configurations that meet appropriate evaluation criteria. Fracture morphology of representative samples from each configuration is analyzed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), revealing similarities in surface features and specific failure mechanisms across the samples.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: CIMA 2022
  topic: category
subject: additive manufacturing
  topic: keywords
subject: fracture toughness
  topic: keywords
subject: multidirectional laminates
  topic: keywords
subject: delamination
  topic: keywords
subject: Materials Science and Engineering
  topic: disciplines
creator: Jonnathan Darío Santos
creator: Luis Córdova Narváez
creator: José Quichimbo
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Jonnathandario Santos, Luis Córdova Narváez, José Quichimbo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-10-04
publication date: 2025-10-04
doi: 10.18272/aci.3806

The contribution of mutation induction to crop improvement: Addressing climate change and ensuring food security
type: item
description: For the genetic improvement of species of agricultural importance, it is essential to have a broad genetic base, ensuring sufficient variability to increase opportunities for selecting specific traits of interest in the field. Additionally, the use of techniques complementary to conventional breeding systems is crucial for effectively exploring the available genetic variability. Currently, there are several techniques, such as in vitro culture, genetic transformation, gene editing, marker-assisted selection, and mutation induction, among others. This review aims to synthesize the historical development, current applications, and future potential of mutation induction in crop improvement, with an emphasis on its role in adaptation to climate change and food security. Mutation induction techniques have played a key role in addressing challenges related to food security by promoting the development of new varieties for the agricultural sector in various countries. Through the analysis of the FAO/IAEA Mutant Varieties Database, it was possible to identify how mutation induction has contributed to the development of cultivars adapted to the specific needs of food security and climate. The FAO/IAEA program (https://nucleus.iaea.org), which promotes the use of nuclear techniques in agriculture, has resulted in the release of more than 3404 mutant varieties in 233 cultivated species in 75 countries. In several countries, as indicated in the MVD, the use of mutant germplasm in plant breeding programs has been crucial for adapting crops to new climatic conditions, in addition to meeting the growing demand for food. These advances highlight the potential of mutation induction as an essential tool to address future agricultural challenges, underlining the importance of continuing to invest in nuclear techniques for breeding cultivars adapted to climate change and global food security.
subject: Review
  topic: section
subject: plant breeding
  topic: keywords
subject: genetic variability
  topic: keywords
subject: FAO
  topic: keywords
subject: Agronomy
  topic: disciplines
creator: Raymond Joseph
creator: Viviane Kopp da Luz
creator: Amanda Valentini Baseggio
creator: Adriana Pires Soares Bresolin
creator: Antonio Costa De Oliveira
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Raymond Joseph, Viviane Kopp da Luz, Amanda Valentini Baseggio, Adriana Pires Soares Bresolin, Antonio Costa De Oliveira https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-12-09
publication date: 2025-12-09
doi: 10.18272/aci.3732

Analysis of combined intracantonal public transportation at the Río Coca Terminal: A bibliographic review
type: item
description: This study examines the intra-cantonal transportation system that connects the Río Coca terminal in Quito with the rural parishes of the Tumbaco Zonal Administration, evaluating the factors that affect the mobility of users on long-distance trips from the urban hypercenter of Quito to rural areas. The urbanization dynamics reflected in the population growth rates of these areas are considered. To achieve this, a review of publications between 1990 to 2023 was made, in the Scopus, Web Of Science, and Google Scholar databases, in English, Spanish and French with key words indexed in the UNESCO Thesaurus dictionary. For the analysis, scientometric tools such as Posit Cloud, tree of Science (Tos), Bibliometrix, VOSviewer were used and the inclusion criteria were the population rates between 1990 and 2001, which were significantly high in parishes such as Pifo (5.92 %), Puembo (5.25 %), Yaruquí (5.49 %), Checa (5.89 %) and El Quinche (5.93 %). Additionally, between 2001 and 2010, growth was recorded in Cumbayá (4.45 %). The economic activity of the users was also taken into account. Data such as education, language and race were excluded. Based on this analysis, a model of growth in transport demand was developed, allowing the identification of routes that require the expansion of service areas, as well as current and future congestion points.
subject: Review
  topic: section
subject: Public transportation
  topic: keywords
subject: Rural area
  topic: keywords
subject: Quito
  topic: keywords
subject: Civil Engineering
  topic: disciplines
subject: Transportation Engineering
  topic: disciplines
creator: Alisson Dayana Alvarez Fueres
creator: Gabriela Solange Muñoz Abad
creator: Fausto Alejandro Rodríguez Bravo
creator: Mónica Susana Delgado Yánez
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Alisson Dayana Alvarez Fueres, Gabriela Muñoz, Fausto Alejandro Rodríguez Bravo, Mónica Susana Delgado Yánez https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-05-08
publication date: 2025-05-08
doi: 10.18272/aci.v17i1.3338

First predation record of the Galapagos Hawk Buteo galapagoensis (Accipitriformes: Accipitridae), on a feral cat Felis catus (Carnivora: Felidae)
type: item
description: The Galápagos hawk Buteo galapagoensis is the top predator of the archipelago, feeding on a wide variety of species from different taxonomic groups, ranging from insects to carrion. We report the first recorded instance of predation by a Galápagos hawk on a feral cat Felis catus, as camera trap bycatch, on Wolf Volcano, Isabela Island. This report adds to the extensive list of the hawk’s dietary items and may have ecological implications, such as the role of introduced species in food webs, the role of native predators in controlling invasive species, and how these interactions play out on islands, leaving many open questions.
subject: Communications
  topic: section
subject: Galapagos Islands
  topic: keywords
subject: Introduced species
  topic: keywords
subject: Food webs
  topic: keywords
subject: Apex predator
  topic: keywords
subject: camera traps
  topic: keywords
subject: Invasive Species
  topic: keywords
subject: Accipitridae
  topic: keywords
subject: Bird of prey
  topic: keywords
subject: Isabela Island
  topic: keywords
subject: Wolf Volcano
  topic: keywords
subject: Ecology
  topic: subjects
subject: Biology
  topic: subjects
subject: Behaviour
  topic: subjects
subject: Biological Sciences
  topic: disciplines
subject: Biology
  topic: disciplines
subject: Biology and Environment
  topic: disciplines
subject: Conservation
  topic: disciplines
subject: Ecology
  topic: disciplines
subject: Food Webs
  topic: disciplines
subject: Predation Ecology
  topic: disciplines
subject: Raptor research
  topic: disciplines
creator: Elias Viteri Basso
creator: Johannes Ramirez Kastdalen
creator: Jorge Carrión Tacuri
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Elias Viteri-Basso, Johannes Ramirez Kastdalen, Jorge Carrión-Tacuri https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-11-21
publication date: 2025-11-21
doi: 10.18272/aci.3877

Optimization of sourness and flavor in orange-flavored gummy candies using a simplex-lattice mixture design implemented with R
type: item
description: Acidulants are crucial for enhancing and balancing the flavor profiles of confectionery products, such as gummy candies, ensuring an optimal sensory experience. This study aimed to develop an R script using the simplex-lattice mixture design to optimize the sourness and flavor levels and the combined response of these attributes for orangeflavored gummy candies, demonstrating its application in improving the sensory qualities of confectionery products. The gummy candies were prepared according to previous research, incorporating citric, malic, and fumaric acids based on the experimental design. The R scripts were provided and uploaded to the GitLab platform for download and analysis (https://gitlab.com/FoodChem-DataSci-Lab/orange-flavored-gummy-candies). The effects of these acids on sourness and flavor were assessed using a 5-point hedonic scale by 30 trained judges. The data were analyzed with R, resulting in mathematical models for the acids’ individual effects, interactions, and combined responses. Effect (Piepel direction) and contour plots were generated as well. The optimal mixture was determined to be 4.95 g of citric acid, 4.65 g of malic acid, and 5.40 g of fumaric acid, achieving an optimal combined response value of 107.14. In conclusion, balancing these three acids is critical to optimizing sourness and flavor levels in orange-flavored gummy candies. This study provided a valuable methodology for formulating confectionery products with enhanced sensory profiles. It demonstrated the capability of R to address complex problems in both the confectionery industry and academia, emphasizing its importance as an analytical tool for developing products with improved sensory characteristics.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Gummy candies
  topic: keywords
subject: acidulants
  topic: keywords
subject: simplex-lattice mixture design
  topic: keywords
subject: hedonic scale
  topic: keywords
subject: R programming
  topic: keywords
creator: Lizbeth Chávez-Reyes
creator: Laura García-Curiel
creator: Jesús Guadalupe Pérez Flores
creator: Emmanuel Pérez-Escalante
creator: Elizabeth Contreras-López
creator: Lizbeth Anahí Portillo-Torres
creator: Luis Guillermo González-Olivares
creator: Carlos Ángel-Jijón
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Lizbeth Chávez-Reyes, Laura García-Curiel, Jesús Guadalupe Pérez Flores, Emmanuel Pérez-Escalante, Elizabeth Contreras-López, Lizbeth Anahí Portillo-Torres, Luis Guillermo González-Olivares, Carlos Ángel-Jijón https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-04-15
publication date: 2025-04-15
doi: 10.18272/aci.v17i1.3414

An Act of Resistance: The Role of Local Journals
type: item
description: This editorial requires no abstract
subject: Editorial
  topic: section
subject: Journals
  topic: keywords
subject: local
  topic: keywords
subject: Philosophy
  topic: disciplines
creator: Mateo Dávila-Játiva
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Mateo Dávila-Játiva https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-12-09
publication date: 2025-12-09
doi: 10.18272/aci.4072

PoI+NBU: A Feasibility study in Generating High-Resolution Adversarial Images with a Black Box Evolutional Algorithm based Attack
type: item
description: Adversarial attacks in the digital image domain pose significant challenges to the robustness of machine learning models. Trained convolutional neural networks (CNNs) are among the leading tools used for the automatic classification of images. They are nevertheless exposed to attacks: Given an input clean image classified by a CNN in a category, carefully designed adversarial images may lead CNNs to erroneous classifications, although humans would still classify "correctly" the constructed adversarial images in the same category as the input image. In this feasibility study, we propose a novel approach to enhance adversarial attacks by incorporating a pixel of interest detection mechanism. Our method involves utilizing the BagNet model to identify the most relevant pixels, allowing the attack to focus exclusively on these pixels and thereby speeding up the process of adversarial attack generation. These attacks are executed in the low-resolution domain, and then the Noise Blowing-Up (NBU) strategy transforms the low-resolution adversarial images into high-resolution adversarial images. The PoI+NBU strategy is tested on an evolutionary-based black-box targeted attack against MobileNet trained on ImageNet using 100 clean images. We observed that this approach increased the speed of the attack by approximately 65%.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Black-box attack
  topic: keywords
subject: Convolutional Neural Networks
  topic: keywords
subject: High resolution adversarial image
  topic: keywords
subject: Noise Blowing-Up method
  topic: keywords
subject: Pixels of Interest
  topic: keywords
subject: Computer Vision
  topic: disciplines
subject: Computer Sciences
  topic: disciplines
creator: Enea Mancellari
creator: Ali Osman Topal
creator: Franck Leprévost
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Enea Mancellari, Ali Osman Topal, Franck Leprévost https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-08-21
publication date: 2025-08-21
doi: 10.18272/aci.vi.3699

Effect of corn and cassava silage on the economic and productive performance of hair creole sheep (Ovis aries)
type: item
description: This study evaluated the productive performance and economic viability of supplementing Creole sheep with corn and cassava forage silage. Twelve males (17.6 ± 3.2 kg live weight and 8 months old) were selected and randomized into two groups, one supplemented with corn silage (D1EM) and another with mixed of corn and cassava silage (D2EM+EY) in equal proportions. The animals were evaluated for 52 days (10 days of adaptation) during the dry period. Productive performance in weight gain, body corporal condition, silage intake, and ocular conjunctiva coloration were recorded; information on costs and income was also collected. The productive data was analyzed considering a T-test for independent samples. The D2EM+EY increased (p<0.05) daily gain (0.080 ± 0.01 kg/d vs. 0.060 ± 0.01 kg/d) and accumulated weight in the evaluation period (3.33 ± 0.58 kg vs. 2.45 ± 0.43 kg), and decreased feed conversion (kg: kg, 6.01:1 vs. 8.27:1); also, was observed better ocular conjunctiva condition (Famacha® 2 vs. 1). D2EM+EY supplementation presented a benefit-cost ratio of 2.4 and profitability of 72%, with a production cost of US$ 0.93 per kg of live weight. The strategic supplementation with corn and cassava silage increased weight gain and maintained the animals' body condition during drought, with higher income than production costs.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: dry season
  topic: keywords
subject: feed crops
  topic: keywords
subject: silage
  topic: keywords
subject: supplementary feeding
  topic: keywords
subject: weight gain
  topic: keywords
subject: Livestock
  topic: disciplines
creator: Liliana Atencio Solano
creator: Emiro Suarez Paternina
creator: José Jaime Tapia Coronado
creator: Yacerney Paternina Paternina
creator: Wilson Barragan Hernández
creator: Lorena Mestra Vargas
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Liliana Atencio Solano, Emiro Suarez Paternina, José Jaime Tapia Coronado, Yacerney Paternina Paternina, Wilson Barragan Hernández, Lorena Mestra Vargas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-08-06
publication date: 2025-08-06
doi: 10.18272/aci.vi.3748

From waste to biopolymers: anaerobic fermentation as a sustainable pathway for polyhydroxyalkanoates production
type: item
description: Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) are biopolymers gaining relevance due to their biodegradability and potential to replace conventional plastics, making them a promising solution to mitigate plastic pollution. The production of PHA from volatile fatty acids (VFA), generated through anaerobic waste treatment, offers a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional production routes. This article examines the anaerobic treatment of various waste substrates, such as glycerol, palm oil, fruit and vegetable bagasse, whey, and molasses, aiming to produce VFA. These substrates are evaluated based on their availability, low cost, and compatibility with sustainable biotechnological processes. Furthermore, the advantages and limitations of each substrate are discussed, along with the optimal operational conditions to maximize waste conversion into VFA. The research holds significant implications for the development of integrated biorefinery systems and waste valorization in the PHA industry.
subject: Review
  topic: section
subject: Biomasa
  topic: category
subject: volatile fatty acids
  topic: keywords
subject: polyhydroxyalkanoates
  topic: keywords
subject: biomass
  topic: keywords
subject: bioreactors
  topic: keywords
subject: acidogenic microorganisms
  topic: keywords
subject: Trabajo de revisión
  topic: subjects
subject: Biotechnology
  topic: disciplines
subject: Life sciences
  topic: disciplines
subject: biomass
  topic: disciplines
creator: Rolando Calero
creator: Gerardo
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Rolando Calero, Gerardo Herrera https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-10-03
publication date: 2025-10-03
doi: 10.18272/aci.3678

Towards a Definition of Computing Continuum
type: item
description: The evolution of the Computing Continuum, coupled with DevOps practices, marks a significant transformation in modern computing. This paper examines the integration of cloud, fog, edge, and IoT technologies to enhance resource utilization, scalability, and collaboration. The synergy between DevOps and orchestration systems automates essential processes, optimizing both performance and security. Despite challenges such as coordination complexities and talent shortages, these advancements hold the potential for increased flexibility and efficiency in Computing Continuum environments. The paper concludes by proposing a definition of the Computing Continuum, informed by state-of-the-art concepts and the interplay between multi-architecture orchestration and DevOps culture.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Cloud-to-Edge continuum
  topic: keywords
subject: Cloud-to-Things continuum
  topic: keywords
subject: Fog computing
  topic: keywords
subject: Edge computing
  topic: keywords
subject: IoT application
  topic: keywords
subject: DevOps culture
  topic: keywords
subject: Orchestration
  topic: keywords
subject: Resource Management
  topic: keywords
subject: Computer Sciences
  topic: disciplines
subject: High Performance Computing
  topic: disciplines
creator: Pablo Josue Rojas Yepes
creator: Carlos Jaime Barrios Hernández
creator: Oscar Carrillo
creator: Frédéric Le Mouël
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Pablo Josue Rojas Yepes, Carlos Jaime Barrios Hernández, Oscar Carrillo, Frédéric Le Mouël https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-07-25
publication date: 2025-07-25
doi: 10.18272/aci.v17i2.3697

Modelación del ruido por tráfico vehicular en la calle Mariscal Lamar en la ciudad de Cuenca
type: item
description: Debido al progresivo crecimiento del parque automotor en la ciudad de Cuenca-Ecuador, se evidencian grandes congestiones por la sobresaturación de tráfico en su centro histórico, el cual colapsa en horas pico, trayendo como consecuencia elevados niveles de ruido en la zona. Por esta razón, el presente artículo tiene como objeto modelar el ruido generado por tráfico vehicular en la calle Mariscal Lamar, utilizando el modelo de predicción de ruido NMPB-Routes-96 y las distintas configuraciones que permite el software especializado en ruido "Datakustik CadnaA", considerando las características locales y su parque automotor. Para así determinar el método que más se ajuste a la realidad de la zona de estudio, mediante comparación con niveles de ruido levantados in situ. Además, una vez determinado el método que más se ajusta a los valores del sonómetro, se logró establecer una línea base sobre los Niveles de Presión Sonora equivalente (NPSeq) de una sección del área de influencia directa del "Tranvía 4 Ríos de Cuenca"; obteniendo de esta manera un mapa de ruido previo a la implementación de dicho tranvía, lo cual servirá como referencia para determinar la variación en los niveles de ruido una vez que se encuentre operativo dicho medio de transporte masivo.
subject: SECTION C: ENGINEERING
  topic: section
subject: Propagación de ruido
  topic: keywords
subject: nivel de presión sonora
  topic: keywords
subject: mapas de ruido
  topic: keywords
subject: CadnaA
  topic: keywords
subject: Ingeniería ambiental
  topic: disciplines
creator: Christian Favián Tacuri Ortega
creator: Felipe Sebastián Calderón Peralvo
creator: Chester Andrew Sellers Walden
rights: Copyright (c)
date: 2016-12-13
publication date: 2016-12-13
doi: 10.18272/aci.v8i14.303

Relationships Process, Microstructure, Properties of Hard Chromium Plating in Laboratory Scale
type: item
description: In this work hard chromium electroplating process is developed on small test specimens on AISIA36 steel. This paper includes the development of hard chrome plating process at laboratory scale and provide a simplified procedure for industrial applications. By applying a differential power over the A36 steel submerged in an electrolytic bath of chromic acid, a thin coat of 30 to 80 microns of chrome is deposited over the specimen. The hard chrome deposition is achieved by a combination of multiple variables such as: chromic acid concentration, substrate metal, anodes, current density, solution temperature and time. From the abovementioned parameters, the time and the current density are the working parameters to be manipulated while the others remain unchanged. For these experiment, a linear simplified model is theoretically and experimentally derived from Faraday’s electro-deposition law for hard chrome plating. The thickness variation, micro-hardness and cracking network of the combination of the working parameters are included and discussed in this work. The chrome deposit obtained is microscopically and gravimetrically measured. The results obtained by combining the working parameters show hardness values within the range provided of 66 to 70 HRC. This paper studies and analyzes the possible causes that influence hardness with the microstructure (number of surface cracks, density) and processing parameters such as time and current density.
subject: SECTION C: ENGINEERING
  topic: section
subject: Hard Chrome Plating
  topic: keywords
subject: Faraday law
  topic: keywords
subject: microhardness
  topic: keywords
subject: microcracks
  topic: keywords
subject: time
  topic: keywords
subject: current density
  topic: keywords
creator: Juan D. Ordóñez Barriga
creator: Alfredo Valarezo
rights: Copyright (c)
date: 2015-12-30
publication date: 2015-12-30
doi: 10.18272/aci.v7i2.268

Caracterización morfológica y agronómica de dos genotipos de maíz (Zea mays L.) en la zona media de la parroquia Malchinguí
type: item
description: En Malchinguí se evaluó las características morfológicas y agronómicas de dos genotipos de maíz (Zea mays L.), estableciendo seis sitios experimentales en la zona media (2600 - 2900 msnm) de dicha Parroquia, bajo un diseño completo al azar (DCA). En el estudio se registraron nueve descriptores cuantitativos y siete cualitativos, obteniendo como resultado que los genotipos Pepa (P) y Amarillo (A) presentan diferencias en los siguientes descriptores: altura de planta (P: 106 cm; A: 194 cm), altura de mazorca (P: 59.93 cm; A: 77.82 cm), peso de mazorca (P: 84.08 g; A: 136.78 g), peso de grano (P: 73.41 g; A: 121.35 g), forma de mazorca (P: cónica; A: cilíndrica), color de raquis (P: rojo; A: blanco) y forma del grano (P: redondo; A: puntiagudo). Los demás descriptores mostraron similitud entre genotipos.
subject: SECTION B: LIFE SCIENCES
  topic: section
subject: Diversidad genética
  topic: keywords
subject: Germoplasma
  topic: keywords
subject: Maíz Pepa-Amarillo
  topic: keywords
subject: INGENIERÍA AGRONÓMICA
  topic: disciplines
creator: Jenny Valeria Coral Valenzuela
creator: Héctor Julio Andrade Bolaños
creator: Manuel Maria Pumisacho Gualoto
creator: Jorge David Caicedo Chávez
creator: Diego Rafael Salazar Vizuete
rights: Copyright (c)
date: 2019-05-17
publication date: 2019-05-17
starting page: 40
ending page: 49
doi: 10.18272/aci.v11i1.1091

Evaluating the Role of Urban Planning and Proximity Factors in Occupational Disease Transmission in Meat Processing Zones in Aba
type: item
description: Urban slaughterhouses in developing cities often operate in densely populated environments with limited oversight, posing significant occupational health risks. This study investigated the influence of urban planning and proximity factors on disease transmission among workers in slaughterhouses across Aba, Abia State, Nigeria. The aim was to assess how spatial placement, architectural design, and environmental exposures contribute to occupational illnesses. A mixed-methods approach was employed, involving geospatial analysis, environmental monitoring, health surveys (n = 180), and facility inspections across six slaughterhouses (SH-1 to SH-6). GPS mapping revealed that four out of six facilities were within 200 meters of residential or market areas, with SH-1, SH-3, and SH-5 violating basic zoning regulations. Environmental monitoring showed elevated PM2.5 levels ranging from 54–94 µg/m³ (WHO limit: 25 µg/m³), with the highest levels at SH-3 (94 µg/m³). Ammonia (NH₃) and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) concentrations exceeded safe thresholds in three facilities. Health data showed respiratory symptoms in up to 73% of workers (SH-3) and skin infections in 60% (SH-3). A strong positive correlation was observed between PM2.5 exposure and reported illness, and a significant negative correlation between distance to residential areas and respiratory complaints. Poor infrastructure, weak policy enforcement, and improper zoning were found to exacerbate these health risks. This study concludes that inadequate urban design and poor slaughterhouse placement significantly impacted occupational health. It recommends spatial restructuring, infrastructure upgrades, and integration of health impact assessments into abattoir planning policies in Nigeria.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: air pollution
  topic: keywords
subject: Urban planning
  topic: keywords
subject: slaughterhouses
  topic: keywords
subject: occupational health
  topic: keywords
subject: spatial proximity
  topic: keywords
subject: Environmental Management and Toxicology
  topic: disciplines
subject: Horticulture and Landscape Architecture
  topic: disciplines
subject: Estate Management and Valuation
  topic: disciplines
subject: Psychology
  topic: disciplines
creator: Francis Madu
creator: Chininso Unagha
creator: Gerald Anozie
creator: Agnes Nnamdi
creator: Sylvia Chukwukere
creator: Celestine Ogechi Obele
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Francis Madu, Chininso Unagha, Gerald Anozie, Agnes Nnamdi, Sylvia Chukwukere, Celestine Ogechi Obele https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-03-17
publication date: 2026-03-17
doi: 10.18272/aci.4039

Consensus solution of the focal mechanism of the MW 8.8 earthquake in Kamchatka and the resulting seismic deformation fields
type: item
description: The Mw 8.8 Kamchatka earthquake of July 29, 2025, represents one of the largest seismic events recorded in the Kuril-Kamchatka subduction zone. This study synthesizes and compares the focal mechanism solutions reported by major seismological agencies to derive a representative consensus double-couple solution and to model the coseismic deformation fields generated by the rupture. The angular quadratic mean difference among strike, dip, and rake parameters was used as the main metric of similarity between mechanisms. The consensus solution (strike= 203.5°, dip = 22.7°, rake= 70.1°) is consistent with megathrust faulting on the subduction interface. Based on the USGS finite rupture model, surface displacement and strain fields were computed using Okada’s (1985) elastic dislocation formulation. The results reveal horizontal displacements toward the trench, vertical subsidence to the northwest, and uplift to the southwest of the epicenter, with strain patterns correlating with aftershock distribution. The low angular dispersion (maximum rotation = 28.4°) confirms convergence among agency solutions. These findings contribute to a more reliable representation of rupture parameters and support regional seismic hazard modeling.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: megathrust earthquake
  topic: keywords
subject: Kamchatka
  topic: keywords
subject: Co-seismic deformation
  topic: keywords
subject: focal mechanism
  topic: keywords
subject: seismology
  topic: disciplines
creator: Amilcar Carrera Cevallos
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Amilcar Carrera Cevallos https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-03-05
publication date: 2026-03-05
doi: 10.18272/aci.4005

Unbalance in ac motors with variable speed
type: item
description: The study aims to analyze the imbalance in alternating current motors with variable speed, specifically in asynchronous motors, to identify and control resonance and instability phenomena that arise during operation at different speeds. These phenomena can cause excessive vibrations, damage to mechanical components, and reduced motor lifespan. To achieve this, a dynamic analysis of a three-phase rotor was conducted using a mathematical model that considers the stiffness and damping coefficients of the bearings, as well as excitation forces and lubrication conditions. The rotor was divided into three sections, and its behavior under unbalanced conditions was simulated using dynamic analysis software (Rotor Dynamics Analysis). Additionally, practical vibration measurements were taken using a CSI 2130 analyzer to validate the simulation results. The results revealed the presence of two critical speeds, one at 800 rpm and the other at 1600 rpm, where maximum vibration amplitudes and resonance conditions were observed. These critical speeds pose a significant risk to motor operation, as they can lead to instabilities and damage to mechanical components. The study concludes that it is essential to avoid operating the motor at these critical speeds to prevent failures and ensure safe and efficient operation. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of conducting modal analysis and regular preventive maintenance to identify and mitigate potential issues before they become critical. The findings provide valuable insights for optimizing the operation of asynchronous motors in industrial applications, particularly in processes requiring variable speed, thereby contributing to improved energy efficiency and reduced maintenance costs.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: damping
  topic: keywords
subject: dynamic analysis
  topic: keywords
subject: stiffness coefficients
  topic: keywords
subject: predictive maintenance
  topic: keywords
subject: asynchronous motors
  topic: keywords
subject: resonance
  topic: keywords
subject: critical speeds
  topic: keywords
subject: vibrations
  topic: keywords
subject: asynchronous motors
  topic: subjects
subject: ac motors
  topic: subjects
subject: Engineering
  topic: disciplines
subject: Computer Science
  topic: disciplines
creator: Jose Luis Hernández Corona
creator: Jonny Carmona Reyes
creator: Román Daniel Romero Mitre
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Jose Luis Hernández Corona, Jonny Carmona Reyes, Román Daniel Romero Mitre https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-04-10
publication date: 2026-04-10
doi: 10.18272/aci.3823

Geographic distribution of Manduca moths (Sphingidae) in Ecuador: Agroecological roles and management implications
type: item
description: The genus Manduca (Sphingidae) comprises moth species that play significant ecological and agricultural roles, acting both as pollinators and as crop pests. This study aimed to analyze their geographical distribution in Ecuador by integrating data from scientific collections, digital repositories, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Using this approach, we identified distribution patterns across the country’s four main regions (the Andes, Coast, Amazon, and Galápagos), as well as associations with agricultural crops and various ecosystems. The highest concentration of Manduca records was found in the Andean region (170 records), followed by the Coastal region (154 records), with Manduca rustica showing particularly notable presence. These findings suggest a potential preference for montane areas and indicate that Manduca species may play a crucial role in the pollination of crops in these zones. Additionally, occurrences of Manduca as agricultural pests were documented in certain areas. The results underscore the importance of adopting agroecological strategies that acknowledge the dual roles of these moths both as valuable pollinators and as agricultural pests as discussed in the concluding section.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: pollination
  topic: keywords
subject: moths
  topic: keywords
subject: biodiversity
  topic: keywords
subject: distribution patterns
  topic: keywords
subject: conservation
  topic: keywords
subject: Entomology
  topic: disciplines
subject: Biogeography
  topic: disciplines
subject: Agroecology
  topic: disciplines
creator: Michelle Cañizares - Huilca
creator: Diego Guevara
creator: Francisco Piñas
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Michelle Cañizares - Huilca, Diego Guevara, Francisco Piñas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-05-05
publication date: 2026-05-05
doi: 10.18272/aci.3895

The real origin of the COVID-19 Pandemic
type: item
description: In December 2019, an outbreak of pneumonia in Wuhan marked the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although a novel coronavirus similar to the SARS virus responsible for an epidemic in 2002 was identified, two hypotheses emerged regarding its origin: the live animal market in Wuhan or a potential leak from the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV). Most scientific experts support the hypothesis of a natural origin and transmission from the live animal market. However, certain political groups in the United States promoted the lab-leak theory, which undermined trust in scientific communication. One consequence of this mistrust in science was resistance to public health measures such as vaccination, mask-wearing, and social distancing, along with growing skepticism toward scientific activity. These dynamics have serious implications for public health and for future virus surveillance efforts.
subject: Communications
  topic: section
subject: COVID-19
  topic: keywords
subject: pandemic
  topic: keywords
subject: virus origin
  topic: keywords
subject: public health
  topic: keywords
subject: misinformation
  topic: keywords
subject: science
  topic: subjects
subject: microbiology
  topic: subjects
subject: virus
  topic: subjects
subject: Microbiology
  topic: disciplines
creator: Gabriel Trueba
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Gabriel Trueba https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-12-02
publication date: 2025-12-02
doi: 10.18272/aci.3892

Beyond the Turing test: the human role in the future of science
type: item
description: Seventy-five years ago, Alan Turing published his famous paper "Computing Machinery and Intelligence", in which he posed the now-classic question: Can machines think? Since defining both “machine” and “think” in an unambiguous way is nearly impossible, Turing proposed an alternative approach now known as the imitation game. The core idea is that a machine and a human each try to convince a judge that they are human—the judge must then decide which is which. With the advent of large language models (LLMs) such as ChatGPT, some claim that these tools have effectively passed the Turing Test. But does this really mean that machines can think? This claim raises profound questions and concerns in modern society, particularly in academia and the research world.
subject: Editorial
  topic: section
subject: editorial
  topic: keywords
subject: ciencias de la computación
  topic: disciplines
creator: Dennis Cazar
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Dennis Cazar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-05-14
publication date: 2025-05-14
starting page: 1
ending page: 1
doi: 10.18272/aci.v17i1.3886