Evaluación del Rendimiento y Producción de Humedad de los Humidificadores de Burbuja usados con Mascarillas Oxígeno de Concentración Variable / Evaluation of the Performance and Humidity Production of Bubble Humidifiers used with Variable Concentration Oxygen Masks

Introducción. Introducción. El uso de humidificadores de burbuja asociados a equipos de oxigenoterapia es una práctica común en los centros hospitalarios de nuestro país. Sin embargo, no se ha evaluado el aporte real de humedad que entregan estos equipos cuando son usados con sistemas de concentración variable a distintas concentraciones de oxígeno. Además, se han descrito problemas de funcionamiento en la entrega de oxígeno cuando se han ocupado este tipo de humidificador. Objetivo. Determinar el aporte real de humedad que entregan los humidificadores de burbuja al ser usados con sistemas de oxigenoterapia de concentración variable. Métodos. Se evaluaron 10 humidificadores de burbuja, marca Hudson RCI®, con válvula liberadora de presión, los cuales se conectaron a un sistema de oxigenoterapia de concentración variable (Marca Hudson RCI®, modelo MULTI-VENT). La medición de la humedad relativa (HR) se realizó en una cámara de acrílico, donde se conectó el inyector del sistema de oxigenoterapia. Para medir H.R. y temperatura se utilizó un higrómetro digital (Veto®, Italia) y un higrómetro análogo (Hygromat®, Alemania). Cada medición requirió un tiempo de 5 minutos para lograr un valor estable. Se realizaron mediciones de la humedad relativa y temperatura entregada por este sistema, con y sin humidificador, a concentraciones de oxígeno de 0.24, 0.26, 0.28, 0.3, 0.35, 0.4 y 0.5. Resultados. Para las la temperatura, no hubo diferencias entre las mediciones realizadas con y sin humidificador de burbuja. Para la humedad relativa, sólo hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativas a concentraciones de oxígeno altas (> 0.35), pero con escaso cambio en la entrega de humedad absoluta. Cuando se utilizó flujos operativos ≥ 6 L/min se activó la válvula liberadora de presión del humidificador. Conclusión. El uso de humidificadores de burbuja asociados a sistemas de oxigenoterapia de concentración variable no genera un aumento significativo de la humedad entregada a concentraciones bajas de oxigeno, por lo cual se podría prescindir de su uso.

Background. The use of bubble humidifiers associated with oxygen therapy equipment is a common practice in hospitals in our country. However, the real contribution of humidity delivered by these equipments when used with variable concentration systems at different oxygen concentrations has not been evaluated. In addition, operating problems have been described in the delivery of oxygen when this type of humidifier has been used. Objetive. Determine the real contribution of humidity delivered by bubble humidifiers when used with variable concentration oxygen therapy systems. Methods. 10 Hudson RCI® brand bubble humidifiers with a pressure release valve were evaluated, which were connected to a variable concentration oxygen therapy system (Hudson RCI® brand, MULTI-VENT model). The relative humidity (RH) was measured in an acrylic chamber, where the injector of the oxygen therapy system was connected. To measure R.H. and temperature, a digital hygrometer (Veto®, Italy) and an analog hygrometer (Hygromat®, Germany) were used. Each measurement required a time of 5 minutes to achieve a stable value. Measurements of the relative humidity and temperature delivered by this system were made, with and without a humidifier, at oxygen concentrations of 0.24, 0.26, 0.28, 0.3, 0.35, 0.4 and 0.5. Results. For temperature, there were no differences between the measurements made with and without a bubble humidifier. For relative humidity, there were only statistically significant differences at high oxygen concentrations (> 0.35), but with little change in absolute humidity delivery. When operating flows ≥ 6 L/min were used, the humidifier pressure relief valve was activated. Conclusion. The use of bubble humidifiers associated with variable concentration oxygen therapy systems does not generate a significant increase in the humidity delivered at low oxygen concentrations, so their use could be dispensed with.

Incidencia de la humedad relativa en la transmisión de la COVID-19 / Impact of relative humidity on COVID-19 transmission

Introducción: El nuevo patógeno SARS-CoV-2 presenta una rápida propagación, y es el causante de la enfermedad del Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). Dado que este virus es reciente, el aumento de los casos de la enfermedad COVID-19 ha sido una gran amenaza, a lo que le ha sumado la no existencia de información contundente sobre la enfermedad, su transmisión, y su relación con las distintas variables ambientales. Objetivo: Determinar la incidencia de la humedad relativa en la transmisión de la COVID-19 en las regiones tropicales de Colombia. Métodos: Se analizaron los datos de humedad relativa y número de contagios diarios de COVID-19 de siete ciudades de Colombia ubicadas en la Región Caribe (Barranquilla y Sincelejo), Región Andina (Medellín, Bucaramanga, Armenia y Cúcuta), además de la Región Amazónica (Leticia). Se utilizó un modelo logístico generalizado para analizar los datos existentes y diseñar las curvas epidemiológicas. Resultados: Para todas las ciudades, de acuerdo con el modelo se encontraron altas correlaciones entre la humedad relativa (variable observada) y COVID-19 (variable predicha) con un R2 > 0,90. No obstante, se determinó si existía asociación entre las variables comparando el valor p con el nivel de significancia α del 0,05, se encontró una asociación estadísticamente significativa en las ciudades de Leticia, Barranquilla y Cúcuta. Conclusiones: Los resultados indican que existe una relación directa entre la humedad relativa y la transmisión de COVID 19 en regiones tropicales de Colombia. De ahí que se plantee que el estudio aporta una herramienta importante para la toma de decisiones de las instituciones a cargo del control de la enfermedad, como los gobiernos nacionales y locales(AU)

Introduction: The new pathogen SARS-CoV-2 presents a rapid spread, and is the cause of the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Given that this virus is recent, the increase in cases of the COVID-19 disease has been a great threat, to which has been added the lack of conclusive information about the disease, its transmission, and its relationship with the different environmental variables. Objective: To determine the incidence of relative humidity in the transmission of COVID-19 in the tropical regions of Colombia. Methods: Relative humidity data and number of daily COVID-19 infections from seven cities in Colombia located in the Caribbean Region (Barranquilla and Sincelejo), Andean region (Medellín, Bucaramanga, Armenia and Cúcuta), as well as the Amazon Region (Leticia) were analyzed. A generalized logistic model was used to analyze existing data and design epidemiological curves. Results: For all cities, according to the model, high correlations were found between relative humidity (observed variable) and COVID-19 (predicted variable) with an R2 > 0.90. However, it was determined if there was an association between the variables by comparing the p-value with the level of significance α 0.05, a statistically significant association was found in the cities of Leticia, Barranquilla and Cúcuta. Conclusions: The results indicate that there is a direct relationship between relative humidity and the transmission of COVID 19 in tropical regions of Colombia. Hence, it is proposed that the study provides an important tool for the decision-making of the institutions in charge of the control of the disease, such as national and local governments(AU)

Scrotal thermographic profile and seminal characteristics of Mangalarga Marchador stallions bred in the Atlantic Rainforest biome / [Perfil termográfico escrotal e características seminais de garanhões Mangalarga Marchador criados no bioma Mata Atlântica]

The objective of this study was to determine the scrotal thermographic profile and to verify the influence of temperature and humidity of the humid tropical climate on testicular temperature and seminal quality of Mangalarga Marchador stallions. The thermal profiles of the proximal, middle, and distal zones of the testicles and total surface temperature (TSTT) were recorded using an FLIR E60bx thermal imager. The average air temperature (°C) and relative humidity (%) were obtained 1, 5, 9, 33, and 66 days before semen collection and showed a mean value of 26.5±2.4 and 80.4±6.0 respectively. The scrotal surface temperature was close to 34°C and there was no variation with the age of the stallion, reproductive activity, and characteristics of the ejaculate (P>0.05). The only significant correlations obtained were between TSTT and minor defects (R = 0.41; P<0.05), between TSTT and total defects (R = 0.46; P<0.01), and between TSTT and percentage of morphologically normal sperm (R = -0.46; P<0.05). It was concluded that the Mangalarga Marchador stallions maintained the testicular temperature within favorable conditions for spermatogenesis, demonstrating the efficiency of testicular thermoregulation mechanisms in the Atlantic Forest biome.

O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar o perfil termográfico escrotal e verificar a influência da temperatura e da umidade do clima tropical úmido na temperatura testicular e na qualidade seminal de garanhões Mangalarga Marchador. Os perfis térmicos das zonas proximal, média e distal dos testículos e a temperatura da superfície total (TSTT) foram registrados usando-se um termovisor FLIR E60bx. A temperatura média do ar (° C) e a umidade relativa (%) foram obtidas um, cinco, nove, 33 e 66 dias antes da coleta de sêmen e apresentaram valor médio de 26,5 ± 2,4 e 80,4 ± 6,0, respectivamente. A temperatura da superfície escrotal foi próxima a 34°C, e não houve variação com a idade do garanhão, a atividade reprodutiva e as características do ejaculado (P>0,05). As únicas correlações significativas obtidas foram entre TSTT e defeitos menores (R=0,41; P<0,05), entre TSTT e defeitos totais (R=0,46; P<0,01), e entre TSTT e porcentagem de espermatozoides morfologicamente normais (R=-0,46; P<0,05). Concluiu-se que os garanhões Mangalarga Marchador mantiveram a temperatura testicular dentro de condições favoráveis para a espermatogênese, demonstrando a eficiência dos mecanismos de termorregulação testicular no bioma Mata Atlântica.

Principal component regression analysis demonstrates the collinearity-free effect of sub estimated climatic variables on tree growth in the central Amazon / El análisis de regresión por componentes principales muestra el efecto libre de colinealidad de variables climáticas subestimadas sobre el crecimiento de los árboles en la Amazonía central

Abstract Introduction: Climatic variables show a seasonal pattern in the central Amazon, but the intra-annual variability effect on tree growth is still unclear. For variables such as relative humidity (RH) and air vapor pressure deficit (VPD), whose individual effects on tree growth can be underestimated, we hypothesize that such influences can be detected by removing the effect of collinearity between regressors. Objective: This study aimed to determine the collinearity-free effect of climatic variability on tree growth in the central Amazon. Methods: Monthly radial growth was measured in 325 trees from January 2013 to December 2017. Irradiance, air temperature, rainfall, RH, and VPD data were also recorded. Principal Component Regression was used to assess the effect of micrometeorological variability on tree growth over time. For comparison, standard Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) was also used for data analysis. Results: Tree growth increased with increasing rainfall and relative humidity, but it decreased with rising maximum VPD, irradiance, and maximum temperature. Therefore, trees grew more slowly during the dry season, when irradiance, temperature and VPD were higher. Micrometeorological variability did not affect tree growth when MLR was applied. These findings indicate that ignoring the correlation between climatic variables can lead to imprecise results. Conclusions: A novelty of this study is to demonstrate the orthogonal effect of maximum VPD and minimum relative humidity on tree growth.

Resumen Introducción: Las variables climáticas muestran un patrón estacional en la Amazonía central, pero el efecto de la variabilidad intra-anual en el crecimiento de los árboles aún no está claro. Para variables como la humedad relativa (HR) y el déficit de presión de vapor (VPD), cuyo efecto individual en el crecimiento de los árboles puede ser subestimada, planteamos la hipótesis de que tales influencias pueden detectarse eliminando el efecto de colinealidad entre regresores. Objetivo: Este estudio tuvo como objetivo determinar el efecto libre de colinealidad de la variabilidad climática sobre el crecimiento de los árboles en la Amazonía central. Métodos: Se midió el crecimiento radial mensual en 325 árboles desde enero 2013 hasta diciembre 2017. También se registraron datos de irradiancia (PAR), temperatura del aire, lluvia, humedad relativa (RH) y déficit de presión de vapor de aire (VPD). Se utilizó la regresión de componentes principales para evaluar el efecto de la variabilidad micrometeorológica a lo largo del tiempo sobre el crecimiento de los árboles. Para comparación, también se utilizó la regresión lineal múltiple (MLR) estándar para el análisis de datos. Resultados: El crecimiento de los árboles incrementó con el aumento de las precipitaciones y la humedad relativa, y disminuyó con el aumento de la VPD máxima, la irradiancia y la temperatura máxima. Por lo tanto, los árboles crecieron más lentamente durante la estación seca, cuando la irradiancia, la temperatura y la VPD eran más altas. La variabilidad micrometeorológica no afectó el crecimiento de los árboles cuando se aplicó MLR. Estos hallazgos indican que ignorar la correlación entre las variables climáticas puede conducir a resultados imprecisos. Conclusiones: Una novedad de este estudio es demostrar el efecto ortogonal del VPD máximo y la humedad relativa mínima sobre el crecimiento de los árboles.

Abundance and richness of Arctiinae moths throughout the night in a Cerrado area / Abundância e riqueza de mariposas Arctiinae ao longo da noite em uma área de Cerrado

Abstract: The main goal of this work was to investigate how the abundance and richness of Arctiinae moths varies over time, during the night. Specifically, we analyzed the following questions: (1) Is there a relationship between Arctiinae abundance and richness with the temperature and relative humidity? (2) What are the hours of activity of each species of moth? (3) Does the species composition differ over night? (4) Is it necessary to sample this group of moths throughout the night to have a representative sample of the species? We sampled the moths in Emas National Park (17°49'-18°28'S and 52°39'-53°10'W), Brazil. We selected seven sampling points in an area of savanna. At each sampling point, we collected the Arctiinae moths with a light trap (with a 15-W black light fluorescent light bulb), reflected in a white cloth (2 x 3 m) extended vertically. We sampled the moths in seven consecutive nights (one night in each sampling point, from December 13 to December 19, 2012, from 7 p.m. until 7 a.m.). We divided the samplings in twelve periods over the night, with an hour each. At each period of time, we measured the temperature and the relative humidity with a digital termohygrometer. We sampled 149 individuals belonging to 17 species of Arctiinae moths. Most species (70.5%) were active only for one or two hours at night. The species differed in terms of time activity. The higher abundance occurred at 8 p. m. (44 individuals), followed by 38 individuals at 9 p. m. and 23 at 10 p. m. The species richness was also higher in the early hours of the night. The temperature was the only variable that showed a positive and significative relationship with the Arctiinae moth abundance. The species richness was not influenced neither by the temperature nor by the relative air humidity. The possible causes of the peak of abundance and species richness in specific hours of the night are discussed.

Resumo: Este trabalho teve como objetivo principal investigar como a abundância e a riqueza de mariposas Arctiinae variam temporalmente, ao longo do período noturno. Especificamente, analisamos as seguintes questões: (1) existe relação entre a abundância e a riqueza de Arctiinae e a umidade relativa do ar e a temperatura? (2) qual é o horário de atividade de cada espécie de mariposa? (3) a composição de espécies difere ao longo da noite? (4) é necessário amostrar esse grupo de mariposas ao longo de toda a noite para ter uma amostra representativa das espécies? Realizamos as amostragens no Parque Nacional das Emas (17°49'-18°28'S e 52°39'-53°10'W), Brasil. Selecionamos sete pontos amostrais em uma área de campo cerrado. Em cada ponto, coletamos as mariposas Arctiinae utilizando uma fonte luminosa (lâmpada UV de 15 W) refletida em um pano branco (2 x 3 m) estendido na vertical. Coletamos as mariposas durante sete noites consecutivas (uma noite por ponto, entre os dias 13 e 19 de dezembro de 2012, das 19:00 até as 07:00). Dividimos o período noturno em doze faixas de uma hora. Medimos a temperatura e a umidade relativa do ar com auxílio de um termohigrômetro digital. Amostramos 149 indivíduos pertencentes a 17 espécies de mariposas Arctiinae. A maioria das espécies (70,5%) esteve ativa apenas por uma ou duas horas durante a noite. As espécies diferiram em termos de horário de atividade. O horário das 20 h apresentou uma maior abundância (44 indivíduos), seguido do horário das 21 (38) e das 22 h (23). A riqueza também foi maior nas primeiras horas da noite. Somente a temperatura foi positivamente correlacionada com a abundância de mariposas. A riqueza de mariposas não foi influenciada nem pela temperatura nem pela umidade relativa do ar. As possíveis causas das diferenças em termos de horários de atividade são discutidas..

Effect of Lockdown amid COVID-19 Pandemic on Weather Parameters of Mid Hill Region of Jammu District of J&K, UT

Aim: A study was conducted in mid hill region of Jammu district, J&K to analyze the impact lockdown amid covid-19 pandemic on weather parameters so as to define it as a tool to mitigate the pace of climate change. Methodology: Day and night temperature readings were recorded fortnightly during 22nd March to 10th June 2020 from maximum and minimum thermometer, relative humidity from dry and wet bulb thermometers in stevenson screen, rainfall values from ordinary rain gauge, evaporation readings from pan evaporimeter and soil temperature at different depth from soil thermometers. Results: After analyzing the data statistically using “Descriptive statistics” in MS-Excel 2010, it was observed that after the implementation of lockdown and with the beginning of unlock down the change in day temperature was -8.07% from normal mean value, night temperature was -4.44% from normal mean value, rainfall pattern was 30.00% more from normal mean value, Relative Humidity (morning) pattern was 6.94% more from normal mean value, relative humidity (evening) pattern was 20.94% more from normal mean value, evaporation pattern was 7.66% more from normal mean value. The average change in soil temperature in morning at 5 cm, 10 cm and 20 cm depth was -3.46%, -3.84% and -7.23% as compared to year 2019 (22nd March to 10th June 2019) mean value and the change in soil temperature in evening at same depths was -7.69%, -6.31% and -4.14% from year 2019 (22nd March to 10th June 2019). Conclusion: With the variable significant pattern observed in almost all parameters, it can be concluded that lockdown might be an effective tool in mitigating pace of climate change in future.

Effect of relative humidity on drying characteristic and quality of Panacis Quinquefolii Radix / 中草药

Objective: Taking Panacis Quinquefolii Radix (PQR) as study object, the drying characteristic and quality was investigated under constant relative humidity (RH) and step-down RH drying method in order to provide foundation for improving drying efficient and quality of PQR. Methods: At drying temperature 55 ℃, the effect of constant RH (20%, 30%, and 40%), step-down RH, when RH 40% was kept for 1, 5, and 9 h and then decreased to 20%, and continuously dehumidification drying conditions on drying characteristic, moisture effective diffusion coefficient, rehydration ratio, shrinkage ratio, total ginsenoside content and microstructure were investigated. Results: With constant RH drying condition, the lower the RH was, the higher the drying rate was. When RH was 20%, the drying time was shortened by 6.8% compared with RH of 40%. With step-down RH drying condition, when RH 40% was held for 5 h and then decreased to 20%, the drying time was shortened by 3.4% compared with dehumidification drying method. Also, a transient increasing drying rate phase was appeared. Moisture effective diffusion coefficient ranged from 1.49 × 10-10 to 2.50 × 10-10 m2/s. Rehydration ratio mainly depended on the damage degree of the PQR cellular structure and the moisture content before rehydrating. Additionally, the rehydration ratio and shrinkage ratio increased with the increase of RH. High RH was benefit for reserving and transferring of ginsenoside content. The microstructure results showed that under continuous dehumidification drying process, the PQR surface was crusted so that the drying time was prolonged and rehydration ratio was decreased. On the other hand, step-down RH drying method was benefit for porous structure formation, which was helpful for shortening drying time and improving rehydration ratio. When RH 40% was kept for 5 h and then decreased to 20%, the comprehensive score of this drying condition achieved its maximum value as (0.61 ± 0.01). Such drying condition was regarded as the best drying process with the rehydration ratio, shrinkage ratio and total ginsenoside content of 2.23 ± 0.12, 0.26 ± 0.06, and (5.01 ± 0.04)%, respectively. Conclusion: Step-down RH drying method can improve PQR drying efficient and quality and such conclusion provided theoretical foundation and technical support for how to adjust RH during hot air drying of PQR.

Study on safe storage moisture content of Rhei Radix et Rhizoma using moisture absorbing math model / 中草药

Objective: The moisture absorption of Rhei Radix et Rhizoma (RRR) with different initial moisture content was studied under the conditions of relative humidity of 20%-85% and temperature of 5, 15, 25 and 35 ℃, respectively, so as to provide reference for the control of safe storage moisture and reasonable storage of RRR. Methods: RRR was stored at temperature of 5, 15, 25 and 35 ℃ and humidity of 45%, 60% and 75%, respectively. The samples were taken at different time points to determine its safe water activity with powder color and mildew as indicators. The isotherm adsorption data of RRR at 5, 15, 25 and 35 ℃ and water activity of 0.2-0.8 were obtained by static weighing method and six isotherm adsorption models, GAB, Oswin, Smith, Halsey, Henderso and Peleg, were used for fitting and evaluation. Results: The absolute safe water activity and relative safe water activity of RRR were 0.5 and 0.6, respectively. The adsorption isotherms of RRR at 5, 15, 25 and 35 ℃ were "S" type, which belonged to type II isotherm. Oswin model was the best fitting model and the model expression was: Meq=A[Aw/(1-Aw)B. According to the model, the absolute safe water content of RRR with different initial moisture content at 5 ℃ was 9.00%, 9.59%, 8.00%, 6.71% and relative safe water content was 10.17%, 10.89%, 9.20% and 8.07%, respectively; The absolute safe water content of RRR with different initial moisture content at 15 ℃ was 8.24%, 8.83%, 7.24%, 5.86% and relative safe water content was 9.57%, 10.17%, 8.59% and 7.20%, respectively; The absolute safe water content of that at 25 ℃ was 7.17%, 7.75%, 5.73%, 4.70% and the relative safe water content was 8.72%, 9.26%, 7.26% and 6.25%, respectively; The absolute safe water content of that at 35 ℃ was 8.00%, 8.45%, 6.53%, 5.21% and the relative safe water content was 9.74%, 9.85%, 8.40%, 7.27%, respectively. Conclusion: Oswin model can be used to predict the equilibrium moisture content of RRR in storage, which can provide reference for the control of safe moisture and scientific maintenance of RRR.

Isolation of fungi in indoor air environment of selected air-conditioned and non-airconditioned wards in a public tertiary hospital in Metro Manila, Philippines

Background and Objectives@#The hospital as health care facility has also become a source of infection that provides a place for different microbiological agents such as fungi. Exposure to these organisms is specifically detrimental to highly immunocompromised in-house patients. This study aimed to 1) detect the presence of fungi in a public tertiary hospital in Metro Manila; 2) determine the dominating fungal organism; and 3) describe the environmental conditions and physical factors affecting the proliferation of fungal organisms. @*Methodology@#Eight sampling sites were selected for this study. The hospital main lobby was the comparison site for the three non-air-conditioned surgery wards (NACWs) while the fourth level nurse station is the comparison site for the air-conditioned wards (ACWs). Meteorologic conditions such as environmental temperature and relative humidity were also determined. Andersen air sampler was utilized to conduct the environmental indoor air sampling. A total of 98 malt extract agar supplemented with chloramphenicol (0.01%) plates were utilized for the duplicate sampling in eight sites. After three to five days of incubation at 37° C, the isolated fungal organisms were culturally and morphologically characterized. @*Results@#Seven fungal organisms were isolated from the indoor air sampling conducted namely: Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Curvularia sp., Penicillium sp., Alternaria sp. and Rhizopus sp.). The most dominant fungal species among the NACWs was A. niger. On the other hand, A. fumigatus was the most observed isolate among the ACWs. The air-conditioned wards showed a higher number of fungal isolates. In particular, A. fumigatus and A. flavus colonies in the ACWs were evidently higher than in the NACWs. @*Conclusion@#The ubiquitous nature of the Aspergillus species and slow settling rate due to small spore size make it the most dominant fungal organism retrieved in the air sampling conducted. No strict numerical guidelines were available for the spore counts of Aspergillus species to assess contamination rate. However, according to the Health Protection Surveillance Centre, 2018, the values of CFU/m³ of most of the isolates not only by Aspergillus species showed non-compliance with the threshold level documented.

Assessment of Heat and Mass Transfers by the Evaporation of a Large Impoundment under Dry and Hot Climate: Case of Burkina Faso

This paper aims to report a numerical study of the assessment of heat and mass transfers by evaporation of a large impoundment under Burkina Faso climate conditions. This impoundment is considered as a parallelepiped which upper face, in contact with the ambient environment and subject to solar radiation, is the seat of a natural convection-based evaporation. The intensity of this evaporation is modeled by a correlation in the literature. Transfers into water are made by natural convection. They are caused by temperature differences due to solar radiation and ambient conditions (wind, hygrometry of the air,) on water. These transfers are described by the Navier-Stokes equations and energy and the initial and boundary conditions associated with them. The finite volume method and the SIMPLE algorithm were used for speed-pressure coupling. The systems of algebraic equations deduced from the discretization of transfer equations and boundary conditions associated with them are solved with Thomas’ algorithm, the SIMPLE algorithm and an iterative procedure because evaporated water quantity depends on the temperature and concentration of water vapor at the surface of the impoundment which are the unknowns of the problem. The numerical model developed is validated in relation to previous work and experimental data from Burkina Faso meteorology. The results obtained concern the evolution of the evaporated water flux under dense solar flows, a relative humidity of the air proportional to the wind speed and also the evolution of the evaporated water flux against the solar flux density for high relative moisture content. Also the evolution of the evaporated water flow against the depth of the impoundment for a solar flux density, relative humidity and the temperature of the surface of the body of water is given. The determination of evaporated water flux for typical years was calculated on a 10-year period. The results obtained show that the flux of evaporated water increases with a high solar flux rate and decreases for a high relative humidity level.

Investigation of Systematic Stability of Danshen Capsules / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Objective:To prepare Danshen extract and Danshen capsules, and study on its stability under high humidity, high temperature and light conditions.To determine the hygroscopicity of Danshen capsules and its intermediates. Method:The contents of danshensu, rosmarinic acid, lithospermic acid and salvianolic acid B in Danshen extract and Danshen capsules were determined by UPLC, the detection wavelength was 280 nm and the mobile phase was 0.05% phosphoric acid aqueous solution(A)-acetonitrile(B)for gradient elution(0-2 min, 93% -79.2% A;2-6 min, 79.2% -75% A;6-9 min, 75% -65% A;9-10.5 min, 65% -10% A;10.5-11 min, 10% -93% A).The critical relative humidity(CRH) was calculated and hygroscopic isothermal curve was drawn by determining the moisture absorption and weight gain of Danshen capsules and its intermediates. Result:The fluctuation of contents of these four phenolic acids in Danshen extract and Danshen capsules was within±10% and no significant change trend after placing at temperature of 40℃, relative humidity of 75% and 92.5%, light intensity of (4 500±500) Lx for 10 days.The change rates of danshensu in Danshen extract and Danshen capsules under 60℃ were 47.45% and 32.24%, and change rates of salvianolic acid B were -6.39% and -9.64%, respectively.The hygroscopic investigation showed that CRH of starch-based pellets was 58.5%, CRH of Danshen extract was 72.34%, CRH of coated pills was 72.85%, and CRH of Danshen capsules was 73.55%. Conclusion:High temperature has effect on stability of phenolic acids in Danshen extract and Danshen capsules, in order to ensure the quality of them, high temperature environment should be avoided.In order to prevent excessive moisture absorption of Danshen capsules and its intermediates, the relative humidity in the production and storage environment should be controlled below the corresponding CRH.

Humidity Controlling Material Development from Diatomite, Waste Glass and Cockle Shell Powder: An Experimental Study

Abstract@#Introduction: Innovative ways of balancing indoor relative humidity without compensate for the optimal working environment is crucial as excessive dampness is a risk factor for health symptoms among people and deteriorate building performance. This study examines the potential of fabricating humidity controlling material by sintering a mixture of diatomite, waste glass and cockle shell powder. Moisture sorption isotherms, moisture buffer values, pore structure, surface morphology and flexural strength of the final products were determined. Methods: Mixture of diatomite, powdered waste glass and cockle shell powder is mixed at different ratio, pressed and sintered at 1100°C for 20 minutes. The final products were examined using nitrogen gas adsorption-desorption and scanning electron microscopy for mesoporous and morphology properties. The moisture adsorption-desorption performances of the samples were tested using desiccator method while the flexural strength is tested using universal testing machine. Results: The sintered products have specific surface area from 5.744 m2/g to 14.765 m2/g and have pore size from 39.5-67.7 nm. The best product, manufactured by mixing 60% diatomite, 30% waste glass and 10% cockle shell powder, showed a good moisture buffer value (MBV: 1.3 g/m2 %RH) and flexural strength of 8.23 ± 1.8 MPa satisfy the standard of those commercial porous ceramics. Conclusion: Usage of waste glass and cockle shell powder in development of humidity control material helped in the waste reduction. The humidity control material produced can regulate indoor humidity without additional energy consumption. The superior products show excellent characteristics and highly promising for various construction applications.

Efecto de la temperatura ambiente en la temperatura superficial de zonas negras y blancas del pelaje de un hato de vacas holstein en el departamento de Antioquia, Colombia / Effect of ambient temperature on the surface temperature of black and white areas of the coat in a herd of Holstein cows in the department of Antioquia, Colombia / Efeito da temperatura ambiente na temperatura superficial de zonas negras e brancas da pelagem de um rebanho de vacas holstein no estado de Antioquia, Colômbia

Resumen El artículo reporta la evaluación del efecto de la temperatura ambiente, la humedad relativa, la radiación solar y la velocidad del cuerpo bajo el índice THSW en la temperatura superficial de áreas blancas y negras del pelaje de vacas holstein. Se utilizó información de 5 vacas holstein en producción de la finca El Recreo, ubicada en el municipio de Abejorral, Colombia. Se les tomó la temperatura superficial cada 2 h durante 15 días en 10 sitios diferentes: línea dorsal anterior, media y posterior, flanco derecho e izquierdo, pecho, cuello derecho e izquierdo, vulva y glándula mamaria, con termómetro infrarrojo. Para evaluar el efecto de la temperatura ambiente en la corporal se utilizó un índice que involucra la temperatura, la humedad, la radiación y la velocidad del viento (THSW) y para el análisis estadístico se utilizó un modelo mixto aditivo generalizado suavizado. El THSW encontrado fue de 10 y 27 °C. Las áreas muestreadas tuvieron una diferencia en la temperatura; las de color negro fueron las de mayor temperatura superficial. Oscilaron entre 32,5 y 35,8 °C para zonas blancas, y entre 34,5 y 40,5 °C para zonas negras. Los mayores valores de temperatura superficial para ambas zonas en todos los puntos se presentaron a mayores valores de THSW. Se concluye que el índice THSW tiene efecto diferenciado en la temperatura superficial corporal de acuerdo con el color del pelaje; los puntos negros fueron los que presentaron mayores temperaturas.

Abstract The article evaluates the effect of ambient temperature, relative humidity, solar radiation, and wind speed according to the THSW index on the surface temperature of the white and black areas of the coat of Holstein cows. The study used information of five Holstein dairy cows from the El Recreo farm, located in the municipality of Abejorral, Colombia. Surface temperature was measured with an infrared thermometer every 2 h during 15 days in 10 different sites: anterior, middle, and posterior dorsal line, right and left flank, chest, right and left neck, vulva, and mammary gland. To evaluate the effect of ambient temperature on body temperature, an index that involves temperature, humidity, solar radiation, and wind speed (THSW) was used, and for statistical analysis, a mixed generalized additive model. THSW was 10 and 27 °C. The sampled areas had a difference in temperature; being the black spots that had higher surface temperature. Temperature oscillated between 32.5 and 35.8 °C for white areas, and between 34.5 and 40.5 °C for black areas. Higher surface temperature values for both zones at all points had higher THSW values. It is concluded that the THSW index has a differentiated effect on body surface temperature according to the color of the coat, the black spots having higher temperatures.

Resumo O artigo reporta a avaliação do efeito da temperatura ambiente, a umidade relativa, a radiação solar e a velocidade do corpo sob o índice THSW na temperatura superficial de áreas brancas e negras da pelagem de vacas Holstein. Utilizou-se informação de 5 vacas Holstein em produção do sítio El Recreo, situada no município de Abejorral, Colomba. Tomou-se a temperatura superficial destes a cada 2 horas durante 15 dias em 10 lugares diferentes: linha dorsal anterior, media e posterior, flanco direito e esquerdo, peito, pescoço lado direito e esquerdo, vulva e glândula mamária, com termômetro infravermelho. Para avaliar o efeito da temperatura ambiente na corporal utilizou-se um índice que envolve a temperatura, a umidade, a radiação e a velocidade do vento (THSW) e para a análise estatístico utilizou-se um modelo misto aditivo generalizado suavizado. O THSW encontrado foi de 10 e 27 °C. As áreas amostradas tiveram uma diferença na temperatura; as de cor negra foram as de maior temperatura superficial. Oscilaram entre 32,5 e 35,8 °C para zonas brancas, e entre 34,5 e 40,5 °C para zonas negras. Os maiores valores de temperatura superficial para ambas zonas em todos os pontos, se apresentaram a maiores valores de THSW. Conclui-se que o índice THSW tem efeito diferenciado na temperatura superficial corporal de acordo com a cor da pelagem; os pontos negros foram os que apresentaram maiores temperaturas.

An investigation on the effect of humidity on the zero signal of a strain gauge measuring system / Análisis del efecto de la humedad en las lecturas de referencia de un sistema para medición de torque / Investigação do efeito da umidade nas leituras de referência de um sistema para medição de torque

Abstract Humidity is one of the most important ambient factors influencing torque calibration readings. The present study addresses the effects of relative humidity on the readings of reference torque transduction and amplification devices. The results revealed a linear effect of increasing humidity on the readings of a DMP40 torque amplifier and a torque transducer at different temperatures. Furthermore, humidity effects were smaller on the DMP40 amplifier than on the torque transducer, even at different temperatures. The results also showed that the summed effect of humidity changes on torque calibration readings of the amplifier and the torque transducer, when assessed simultaneously, but with each device under different controlled humidity conditions, is greater than the observed effect on the readings when both devices were subjected to humidity changes together. Therefore, it is recommended to test the effect of humidity in setups where these two devices are both under common humidity conditions. This is likely to lower the uncertainty parameter of the obtained torque calibration readings and is a useful consideration for inter-laboratory comparisons and performance testing.

Resumen La humedad es uno de los factores ambientales que más influyen sobre las lecturas de calibración de mediciones de torque. En este trabajo se estudiaron los efectos de la variación de la humedad relativa sobre las lecturas de aparatos de referencia para transducción y amplificación de torque. Los resultados mostraron una relación lineal y positiva entre el aumento de la humedad relativa y el componente de error de las mediciones de referencia de un transductor y un amplificador de torque DMP40 bajo cuatro temperaturas distintas. Sin importar la temperatura, las mediciones del transductor de torque fueron más susceptibles de ser afectadas por la humidad relativa que las del amplificador DMP40. Se observó también que la suma de los efectos de la humedad relativa en las lecturas de referencia del amplificador y el transductor fueron mayores cuando ambos aparatos fueron operados bajo condiciones de humedad relativa y temperatura distintas (i.e. el amplificador se encontraba en una cámara climática controlada y el transductor fuera de ella, y viceversa) que cuando ambos aparatos fueron operados bajo las mismas condiciones ambientales (i.e. ambos dentro de la cámara climática controlada). En consecuencia, se recomienda llevar a cabo evaluaciones de la humedad en espacios donde ambos aparatos estén bajo las mismas condiciones de temperatura y humedad relativa. Esto puede reducir el componente de incertidumbre de lecturas de calibración de torque y es un factor a considerar al llevar a cabo comparaciones entre laboratorios y tests de desempeño en aplicaciones industriales.

Resumo A umidade é um dos fatores ambientais que mais influenciam as leituras de calibração de medições de torque. O presente estudo analisou os efeitos da umidade relativa sobre as leituras de equipamentos de referência para transdução e amplificação de torque. Os resultados mostraram um efeito linear do aumento da umidade relativa na medição de referência de um transdutor e um amplificador de torque DMP40 em quatro temperaturas diferentes. Adicionalmente, os efeitos da umidade foram menores no amplificador DMP40 do que no transdutor de torque em todas as quatro temperaturas. Os resultados também mostraram que a soma dos efeitos da umidade relativa nas leituras de referência do amplificador e do transdutor foram maiores quando ambos equipamentos foram operados em condições de umidade relativa e temperatura distintas (p.e. o amplificador se encontrava em uma câmara climática controlada e o transdutor fora da câmara, e vice-versa) do que quando ambos equipamentos eram operados nas mesmas condições ambientais (p.e. ambos dentro da câmara climática controlada). Assim sendo, se recomenda avaliar o efeito da umidade em espaços onde ambos equipamentos estejam expostos a mesmas condições de temperatura e umidade relativa. Esso pode reduzir o parâmetro de incerteza das leituras de calibração de torque e é um fator a ser considerado ao realizar comparações entre laboratórios e testes de desempenho em aplicações industriais.

Effect of Temperature and Relative Humidity on Growth of Aspergillus and Penicillium spp. and Biocontrol Activity of Pseudomonas protegens AS15 against Aflatoxigenic Aspergillus flavus in Stored Rice Grains

In this study, we evaluated the effect of different temperatures (10, 20, 30, and 40 °C) and relative humidities (RHs; 12, 44, 76, and 98%) on populations of predominant grain fungi (Aspergillus candidus, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Penicillium fellutanum, and Penicillium islandicum) and the biocontrol activity of Pseudomonas protegens AS15 against aflatoxigenic A. flavus KCCM 60330 in stored rice. Populations of all the tested fungi in inoculated rice grains were significantly enhanced by both increased temperature and RH. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that one unit increase of temperature resulted in greater effects than that of RH on fungal populations. When rice grains were treated with P. protegens AS15 prior to inoculation with A. flavus KCCM 60330, fungal populations and aflatoxin production in the inoculated grains were significantly reduced compared with the grains untreated with strain AS15 regardless of temperature and RH (except 12% RH for fungal population). In addition, bacterial populations in grains were significantly enhanced with increasing temperature and RH, regardless of bacterial treatment. Higher bacterial populations were detected in biocontrol strain-treated grains than in untreated control grains. To our knowledge, this is the first report showing consistent biocontrol activity of P. protegens against A. flavus population and aflatoxin production in stored rice grains under various environmental conditions of temperature and RH.

Descripción de datos climatológicos para el periodo 2012-2015 en El Yopal (Casanare, Colombia) / Description of climatological data for the period 2012-2015 in El Yopal (Casanare, Colombia) / Descrição de dados climatológicos para o período de 2012-2015 em El Yopal (Casanare, Colômbia)

Resumen La variabilidad climática es un tema de importancia para el desarrollo de actividades agropecuarias. En la descripción de las tendencias del comportamiento del clima, es necesario establecer referentes de consulta, los cuales puedan respaldar pronósticos y análisis de los datos. En Colombia existen zonas donde no se cuenta con equipos para la medición de estos parámetros, debido a que requieren una inversión significativa y capacitación técnica para el manejo y mantenimiento de los equipos. Una posible solución es establecer modelos que permitan visualizar la tendencia de estos datos. Esta investigación se desarrolló en la región del Casanare, ubicada en los llanos orientales de Colombia. Esta zona se caracteriza por la producción ganadera, así como de arroz, plátano y yuca. En el presente estudio se desarrolló el análisis de las tendencias de datos climatológicos, según la base de datos del periodo 2012-2015, de una estación climatológica tipo Davis Weather Station. Los datos analizados fueron temperatura ambiente (°C), humedad relativa (%), radiación solar (W/m-2) y velocidad del viento (m/s-1). Se evaluó la tendencia de estos parámetros anualmente, y se hallaron los coeficientes de determinación (r2) según los modelos de ajuste empleados.

Abstract Climatic variability is an important issue for the development of agricultural activities. In the description of climate trends, it is necessary to establish models for consultation, which can support forecasts and data analysis. In Colombia, in certain areas there are no available equipment to measure these parameters, because significant investment and technical training is required for their management and maintenance. One possible solution is to establish models that allow visualizing data trends. This research was developed in the region of Casanare, located on the eastern plains of Colombia. This area is characterized by the production of livestock, as well as rice, banana, and cassava. The present study analyzed climatological data trends, using the database of the period 20122015 of a Davis Weather Station-type weather station. The data analyzed were ambient temperature (°C), relative humidity (%), solar radiation (W/m-2), and wind speed (m/s-1). The trend of these parameters was evaluated annually, and determination coefficients (r2) were calculated according to the adjustment models used.

Resumo A variabilidade climática é um tema de importância para o desenvolvimento de atividades agropecuárias. Na descrição das tendências do comportamento do clima, é necessário estabelecer referências de consulta, as quais possam apoiar os prognósticos e análises dos dados. Na Colômbia existem zonas onde não se conta com equipamentos para a medição destes parâmetros, devido ao fato de que requerem um investimento significativo e capacitação técnica para o manejo e manutenção dos equipamentos. Uma possível solução é estabelecer modelos que permitam visualizar a tendência destes dados. Esta pesquisa foi desenvolvida na região de Casanare, situada nas planícies orientais da Colômbia. Esta zona se caracteriza pela produção de gado, assim como também de arroz, banana e mandioca. Neste estudo se desenvolveu a análise das tendências de dados climatológicos, segundo a base de dados do período 2012-2015, de uma estação climatológica tipo Davis Weather Station. Os dados analisados foram temperatura ambiente (°C), umidade relativa (%), radiação solar (W/m-2) e velocidade do vento (m/s-1). Avaliou-se a tendência destes parâmetros anualmente, e foram encontrados os coeficientes de determinação (r2) segundo os modelos de ajuste empregados.

Study on Improving Moisture Resistance of Yixinshu Capsule / 中国中医药信息杂志

Objective To investigate the effects of moisture-proof materials and contents on hygroscopicity of Yixinshu Capsules; To improve moisture-proof function of Yixinshu Capsules. Methods The hygroscopicity performance of Yixinshu Capsules was analyzed with the indexes of moisture absorption rate and critical relative humidity (CRH), and effects of soluble starch, maize starch, dextrin, lactose, mannitol, calcium hydrogen phosphate, ethylcellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, hypromellose and low-substituted hydroxypropyl cellulose on hygroscopicity of Yixinshu Capsules were compared. The effects of optimized excipients and capsule contents after granulation on hygroscopicity of Yixinshu Capsules were tested. Results Lactose, microcrystalline cellulose and mannitol were the most appropriate moisture-proof excipients for Yixinshu Capsules with balanced moisture absorption rate of 18.04%, for which the best proportion of Yixinshu Capsules to excipients was 1 to 0.1 (wt%). The balanced moisture absorption rate of the powders were 14.87%, 14.39%, and 15.38%, respectively, whereas the granules were 10.75%, 10.29%, and 11.13%, respectively. Conclusion The selected excipients can effectively reduce the hygroscopic rate of the Yixinshu Capsules, and its granules can promote the moisture resistance of Yixinshu Capsules.

Study on Formulation of Xiqingguo Buccal Tablet / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE:To study the formulation of Xiqingguo buccal tablet,optimize the proportion and quantity of main materials. METHODS:Using appearance,hardness,dissolution and taste as investigation indexes,orthogonal design was adopted to optimize the proportion and quantity of main thinner(lactose,mannitol),wetting agent(ethanol),lubricant(magnesium stea-rate),flavoring agent(aspartame),and critical relative humidity was detected. RESULTS:By wet granulation,the optimal formu-lation were as follows as the ratio of lactose and mannitol was 1:3,ethanol volume fraction was 60%,the dosage of menthol, magnesium stearate,aspartame and orange essence was 0.4%,0.9%,2.0%,0.4%;it was proven that the total score of 3 batches of samples were 2.67,2.67,2.70 (RSD=0.65%,n=3),respectively. The critical relative humidity of granule was 60%. CON-CLUSIONS:The Xiqingguo buccal tablet prepared by optimal prescription meets the requirements.

Hygroscopicity of Dry Extract Powder of Hericium Erinaceus and Eathworm Biotransformation / 中国药师

Objective:To confirm the relative humidity conditions of preparation of Hericium Erinaceus and Lumbricus ( HD) bio-transformation and the longest operation time under the conditions through the study on hygroscopicity of dry extract powder. Methods:The solution was prepared respectively in the environment with various humidity, and the moisture absorption rate and critical relative humidity ( CRH) of dry extract powder of HD biotransformation were measured, and then the mathematical model was built and the curves of moisture percentage vs relative humidity was drawn. The parameters of moisture absorption rate, and the relative humidity and operation time with the moisture percentage up to 5% were calculated. The analytic geometry and linear regression method were used to calculate CRH, so as to determine the air humidity control range and the conditions for the production and storage process. Results:The moisture absorption of HD dry extract powder could reach 5% when exposed to the air respectively with the relative humidity of 66. 0%, 80. 8%, 88. 2% and 99. 0% for 7. 088, 3. 953, 2. 892 and 0. 661 h. When the moisture percentage reached 5%, the rela-tive humidity and the shortest time was 50. 84% and 9. 937 h, respectively. The CRH of the dry extract powder of HD biotransforma-tion was 68. 12%. Conclusion:When the dry extract powder of HD biotransformation is under preparation, the relative humidity of en-vironment should be controlled below 50. 84% with the operation time shorter than 9. 937 h, or the relative humidity is controlled below 68. 12% with the operation time shorter than 6. 810 h. Under the above conditions, the moisture absorption rate of HD dry extract pow-der can be controlled below 5%, which does not affect the preparation.

Efecto de borde en la distribución de líquenes y el contenido de clorofilas en fragmentos de Polylepis quadrijuga (Rosaceae) en el páramo de La Rusia (Boyacá-Colombia) / Edge effect on lichen's distribution and chlorophyll content, in fragments of Polylepis quadrijuga (Rosaceae) in Páramo de la Rusia (Boyacá-Colombia)

Resumen:La fragmentación de los ecosistemas es uno de los fenómenos antrópicos de mayor impacto global, y el efecto borde provoca que solo el interior de los fragmentos conserve sus características bióticas y abióticas originales. Los líquenes son organismos especialmente susceptibles a la variabilidad ambiental, lo que podría ser útil para la bio-indicación del efecto borde. En este trabajo se evaluó el efecto borde en dos fragmentos de Polylepis quadrijuga en el Páramo de la Rusia (Boyacá-Colombia), para determinar si existe un efecto borde sobre la distribución de los líquenes asociados a P. quadrijuga y su contenido de clorofilas. Se utilizaron tres transectos de 70 m a través del gradiente matriz-borde-interior en cada fragmento. Se escogieron nueve forofitos por transecto para medir variables ambientales: radiación fotosintéticamente activa, humedad relativa y temperatura del aire, y variables biológicas: riqueza y cobertura de cada especie. Además, fueron elegidas las especies que estaban presentes en las tres zonas del gradiente para cuantificar el contenido de clorofilas a y b, y determinar si hay cambios en la relación de clorofilas a/b que podrían sugerir plasticidad fisiológica como respuesta al efecto borde. Nuestros resultados mostraron que el fragmento 2 tenía una mayor exposición al borde debido a su alta relación perímetro/área, lo que causa una homogenización ambiental y pérdida de biodiversidad con relación con el fragmento 1. En general, se encontraron 55 especies que se distribuyen diferencialmente en relación con los fragmentos y el gradiente matriz-borde-interior. El interior del fragmento 1 fue la zona más conservada, que alberga una composición diferente en más de un 40 % a la composición de cualquier otra zona. Se clasificaron los líquenes de acuerdo con sus hábitos: gelatinosos, fruticosos, costrosos o foliosos, pero no se encontró ninguna relación entre la distribución por hábito y el efecto borde. Seis especies de amplia distribución mostraron cambios en el contenido de clorofila a lo largo del gradiente matriz-borde-interior, lo que es una evidencia de la plasticidad fisiológica al efecto borde. También fue posible diferenciar entre especies con preferencia por ambientes de alta temperatura y especies con preferencia a lugares más húmedos y suficientemente irradiados. Se concluye que algunas especies podrían tener un importante potencial como bio-indicadores de la fragmentación en ambientes de páramo.

Abstract:The ecosystems fragmentation is one of the anthropic phenomena with highest impact at global level and the edge effect causes that only the interior of fragments conserves their original biotic and abiotic characteristics. Lichens are organisms especially susceptible to environmental variability, what could be useful for bio-indication of edge effect. In this work, we evaluated the edge effect in two fragments of Polylepis quadrijuga in the Páramo de la Rusia (Boyacá-Colombia) to determine if there is an edge effect on distribution of lichens associated to P. quadrijuga and their chlorophyll content. We used three transects of 70 m across the matrix-edge-interior gradient in each fragment. We chose nine phorophytes per transect to measure the environmental variables: photosynthetically active radiation, relative humidity and air temperature, and the biological variables: richness and cover per species. Besides, we employed the species that were present in all the three zones of the gradient to quantify the content of chlorophylls a and b, and determine if there are changes in the ratio of chlorophylls a/b that could suggest physiological plasticity as a response to the edge effect. Our results showed that fragment 2 had a higher edge exposition because of its high relation perimeter/area, allowing to an environmental homogenization and lose of biodiversity in relation with fragment 1. Overall, we found 55 differentially distributed species in relation with the fragments and the matrix-edge-interior gradient. The interior of fragment 1 was the most conserved zone, harboring a composition different in more than 40 % to the composition of any other zone. We classified the lichens according with their habits: gelatinous, fruticose, crusty or foliose, but we did not find any relationship between the habit distribution and the edge effect. Six species of wide distribution showed changes in the chlorophyll content along the matrix- edge-interior gradient, what is an evidence of physiological plasticity to edge effect. It was also possible to distinguish between species with preference to warmer environment and species with preference to more humid and sufficiently irradiated places. We concluded that some species of lichens could have an important potential as bio-indicators of fragmentation in the páramo. Rev. Biol. Trop. 64 (4): 1683-1697. Epub 2016 December 01.