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In this study, a design analysis was performed through non-destructive test by rectangular rosette and uniaxial strain gages with FEA, between a structural aerospace assembled component of aluminium and a proposal part machined in one step with the same geometric characteristics. The analysis showed that the proposal part machined in one step has a trend to obtain less strain (0.5156mɛ@46.44N rectangular rosette strain gage, 0.4796 FEA) than the assembled component (0.7012mɛ@46.44N rectangular rosette strain gage, 0.7793 FEA). These findings indicate that the proposal part is a structural element with greater structural stiffness in comparison to the assembled component. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concentrations of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in soils and associated biota around 'Los Padres' pond watershed were determined by gas chromatography with electron capture detector (GC-ECD). Pesticides were analyzed in different horizons (upper 0-15, middle 15-30, lower 45-55 cm) of natural and horticultural soils, developed in highlands and lowlands. Physical and chemical characteristics (organic matter content, pH, moisture, texture, etc.) were determined. Higher concentrations of total OCPs were found in highlands, because of the high content of clay material and organic matter. Lindane, heptachlor, aldrin, DDT and metabolites were found in soils. Depending on physical and chemical characteristics of pesticides and soils, different behaviours were found. Lindane could leach down to lower horizons, rich in clays, while hydrophobic pesticides remain in the upper horizons, retained by organic matter. Vegetables (carrots and potatoes) accumulated lindane with important contributions of DDTs and heptachlor. OCPs weretaken up, accumulated and metabolized efficiently by terrestrial invertebrates (earthworms and beetles). The results obtained testify thepollution by OCPs in 'Los Padres' pond watershed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]