bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pattern of Musculoskeletal Disorders among Diabetic Patients Attending a Tertiary Care Hospital in Dhaka
Authors: Khan Md Shah Zaman , Shakoor MA , Moyeenuzzaman Md , Islam Md Quanurul
Published: July 2009

Disorders of musculo-skeletal (MSK) system are common conditions seen in diabetic patients. The present study investigated the pattern of MSK disorders among the Bangladeshi diabetic patients attending the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation of a tertiary care hospital in Dhaka over a period of one year. A total of 2062 diabetic patients with MSK disorders were included in the study. Degenerative joint diseases were more common (53.2%) than inflammatory arthropathies (20.1%). Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2008; 2(2): 65-66 Key Words: Musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders, diabetic patients, BIRDEM   doi: 10.3329/imcj.v2i2.2941
Urinary Bladder Leiomyoma: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Bhuiyan HU
Published: July 2009

A rare case of urinary bladder leiomyoma in a female patient is presented here. A quarter of these cases are asymptomatic only to be diagnosed by ultrasonography. Symptomatic cases are also misleading as in this case. Laparotomy, removal of mass and ultimately histopathology proved the case to be that of a urinary bladder leiomyoma. Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2008; 2(2): 70-71 Key Words: Urinary bladder leiomyoma, laparotomy, excision biopsy doi: 10.3329/imcj.v2i2.2943
Vitamin A Concentration in Cord and Maternal Serum and its Relation to Birth Weight
Authors: Barua Dipi , Chowdhury TA , Barua Ashim Ranjan
Published: July 2009

Low birth weight (LBW) is a common problem in Bangladesh associated with poor survival, growth and development. Among many factors, Vitamin A deficiency is thought to be associated with LBW. To investigate this relation a study was conducted at Maternity and Child Health Training Institute at Azimpur, Dhaka during January 2000 - July 2002. One hundred pregnant women (38-40 wks of gestation) with their newborns were included. Weights of the newborns were recorded within 20 - 30 minutes of delivery. Vitamin A level was estimated in maternal and cord serum. The newborns having weight <2500gm showed Vitamin A level of 49.40 ± 3.04μg/dl in their maternal serum while those weighing ≥2500gm had a Vitamin A level of 60.18 ± 2.03μg/dl in their maternal serum. A trend of increased maternal serum Vitamin A level was observed with increasing birth weight. Thus neonates with higher birth weights were found to be associated with higher values of maternal serum Vitamin A, though not being statistically significant. Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2009; 3(1): 9-12 Key words: LBW, Vitamin A, cord blood, neonates     doi: 10.3329/imcj.v3i1.2911
Effect of Gestational Homocystein on Fetal Growth in Bangladeshi Women
Authors: Shirin Farzana , Mehdi Tahrim , Alam Md Mahbubul , Nath Ronjon Kumer , Hoque Md Mozammel
Published: July 2009

Hyperhomocysteinemia has been reported among the women of south Asian countries including Bangladesh. It affects fetal development through intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) and is one of the important issues associated with low birth weight (LBW) of newborns. If its association with IUGR can be established, then maternal serum Hcy could help diagnose IUGR cases and ultimately provide scope for prevention and treatment of the cases by supplementation of B-vitamins and folic acid. In this case control study, 80 pregnant women were enrolled, of which 30 were IUGR cases while 50 appropriate for gestational age (AGA) pregnancies worked as control. Maternal Hcy at 3rd trimester of all the subjects were measured and its effects on neonatal size were analyzed. The maternal Hcy of the IUGR cases was significantly higher than the control. The babies born to IUGR cases had a significantly lower birth weight, lower height and lower OFC compared to the babies born to control mothers. Weight, length and OFC of the newborns showed significant inverse correlation with maternal Hcy. Hyperhomocysteinemia was found to be a significant risk factor for LBW (OR 5.23, 95% CI 1.92-14.23), short stature (OR 2.19, CI 0.792-6.06 ) and low OFC (OR 3.04, CI 1.15-8.04) of the newborns. Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2009; 3(1): 13-16 Keywords: Homocysteine, intrauterine growth restriction, low birth weight, pregnancy.   doi: 10.3329/imcj.v3i1.2912
Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Regarding Hospital Delivery among Rural Married Women in Northern Bangladesh
Authors: Yasmin Nawzia , Alam Khairul , Lahiry Suman , Faruquee Mahmud Hossain , Ahmad Tamjida
Published: July 2009

Various programs for safe motherhood aiming to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality are undertaken by public sectors as well as the NGOs. This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on the married women in their reproductive age (15-40y) belonging to 211 households of Shitlai village of Kahalu Thana of Bogra district in Bangladesh from January to April 2007. Using a semi-structured questionnaire, data were collected by door-to-door visits and through face-to-face interviews with the respondents. Considering the knowledge on safe motherhood and safe delivery, majority of the respondents (98.6%) mentioned that every pregnant mother should receive antenatal care, and 97.6% said that pregnancy is a period of risk. Regarding safety, 96.2% mentioned hospital delivery as safe, while 80.6% mentioned home delivery as a risk. Among the respondents, 70.1% said that ANC is important, 29.9% was found to be informed of child birth complications, 16.1% knew the duration of pregnancy, 8.1% knew the danger signs of pregnancy, 4.7% about emergency obstetric care (EOC), 4.3% about expected date of delivery (EDD), 2.4% about safe motherhood and 28.4% about the access of health facilities in the village. Among the respondents, 85.3% showed a positive attitude towards hospital delivery while 14.7% had a negative attitude. Study also showed that majority of the respondents (66.8%) had delivered at home, and only onefourth of the respondents delivered their index child in a hospital. Thus the study recommends to improve the knowledge, economic status, to change the decision making process through the launching of different activities with appropriate health programmes. Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2009; 3(1): 17-20 Key Words: Knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP), hospital delivery, married women   doi: 10.3329/imcj.v3i1.2914
Factors Associated with Multidrup-Resistant Tuberculosis
Authors: Amin Md Nurul , Rahman Md Anisur , Flora Meerjady Sabrina , Azad Md Abul Kalam
Published: July 2009

This case control study was conducted in selected centers of Dhaka City from March to July 2008 to determine the association of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis with the attributes related to treatment and socio-economic condition of tuberculosis patients. Sixty seven culture-proven multidrug-resistant tuberculosis cases and similar number of age and sex matched controls were selected purposively. Data were collected by face to face interview and documents' review, using a pre tested structured questionnaire and a checklist. Multidrug-resistance was found to be associated with occupation (p=0.001) and residential status (p=0.001) of the tuberculosis patients. Tuberculosis patients who did not remain under directly observed treatment were 3 times more likely to develop multidrugresistant tuberculosis (OR 3.21, 95%CI=1.59-6.52). Multidrug-resistance was associated with inadequacy of treatment (OR 2.56, 95%CI=2.03-3.23). Failure of sputum conversion at the end of 2 months of treatment was detected to be the best predictor of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (OR 11.82, 95% CI=4.61-30.33), followed by treatment with non Directly Observed Treatment Short course regimen and high labor intensive occupations like agriculture, production and transport. The risk factors of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis warrant much improvement in the effective implementation of control programs. Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2009; 3(1): 29-33 Key wards: Tuberculosis, MDR TB.   doi: 10.3329/imcj.v3i1.2917
Emerging Phantom-Like from Some Other Reality: Thinking Back and the Apparition of the Feminine
Authors: Smith-Di Biasio Anne-Marie
Published: July 2009

This essay begins with the impossibility of thinking back, or at least of conscious memory, and the need to fix on a fragment, before unconscious memory may emerge as inscription. I then follow the intuition of a link, contained in the cover image of Malcolm Bowie's book Freud, Proust, Lacan: Theory as Fiction, between fictions which theorize and the apparition of the feminine as a haunting incompleteness. It is suggested that such apparitions may be read — like the image in Plato's chora, as read by Pierre Fédida — as a surviving trace, hovering phantom-like between reminiscence and existence. As such, the image might be seen not only as the impensé of theory, producing in texts auratic moments which condense signifiers of present encounter and lost memory trace, but furthermore as the unthinkable feminine negative of masculine pursuit, returning us quite simply to a nodal point of silent gazing.
‘Speech Creatures’: New Men in Pamela and Pride and Prejudice
Authors: Bowlby Rachel
Published: July 2009

This piece takes its cue from Malcolm Bowie's ‘speech creatures’, at once Aristotelian and psychoanalytic, to compare two forceful male characters in English novels who each make speeches proclaiming their own emotional reformation. Different as they are in other respects — an ex-libertine and a man of morals — Samuel Richardson's ‘Mr B.’ (in Pamela) and Jane Austen's Mr Darcy (in Pride and Prejudice) both denounce their early parental education in relation to the humbler selfhood their wives-to-be have taught them. Such a development is both like and unlike the later model of psychoanalytic re-education. It takes early emotional malformation as given, and it postulates the possibility of a beneficial re-education in later life; but it does not differentiate between the sexes (either as parental ‘teachers’ or as child-pupils), and it makes overall for a much more complete transformation and ‘cure by love’ than Freud's theories imagined.
The Quality of Alcohol Products in Vietnam and Its Implications for Public Health
Authors: Lachenmeier Dirk W. , Anh Pham Thi Hoang , Popova Svetlana , Rehm Jürgen
Published: July 2009

Four homemade (artisanally manufactured and unrecorded) and seven commercial (industrially manufactured and taxed) alcohol products from Vietnam were collected and chemically analyzed for toxicologically relevant substances. The majority of both types had alcohol contents between 30 and 40% vol. Two homemade samples contained significantly higher concentrations of 45 and 50% vol. In one of these homemade samples the labeled alcoholic strength was exceeded by nearly 20% vol. All other analyzed constituents of the samples (e.g., methanol, acetaldehyde, higher alcohols, esters, metals, anions) were found in concentrations that did not pose a threat to public health. A peculiarity was a homemade sample of alcohol with pickled snakes and scorpions that contained 77% vol of alcohol, allegedly used as traditional Chinese medicine. Based on this small sample, there is insufficient evidence to conclude that alcohol quality, beyond the effects of ethanol, has an influence on health in Vietnam. However, future research with larger samples is needed.
Synthesis of 2-[4-(4-Chlorophenyl)piperazin-1-yl]-2-methylpropanoic Acid Ethyl Ester
Authors: Pati Hari , Mishra Bijay , Satam Vijay
Published: July 2009

The title compound was synthesized by N-alkylation of 4-(4-chlorophenyl)piperazine with ethyl 2-bromo-2-methylpropanoate and its IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and Mass spectroscopic data are reported.
Nitrate-Melt Synthesized HT-LiCoO2 as a Superior Cathode-Material for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Sathiya Mariyappan , Prakash Annigere  S. , Ramesha Kannadka , Shukla Ashok  K.
Published: July 2009

An electrochemically-active high-temperature form of LiCoO2 (HT-LiCoO2)is prepared by thermally decomposing its constituent metal-nitrates at 700 ºC. The synthetic conditions have been optimized to achieve improved performance with the HT-LiCoO2cathode in Li-ion batteries. For this purpose, the synthesized materials have been characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and galvanostatic charge-discharge cycling. Cathodes comprising HT-LiCoO2 exhibit a specific capacity of 140 mAhg-1 with good capacity-retention over several charge-discharge cycles in the voltage range between 3.5 V and 4.2 V, and can sustain improved rate capability in contrast to a cathode constituting LiCoO2 prepared by conventional ceramic method. The nitrate-melt-decomposition method is also found effective for synthesizing Mg-/Al- doped HT-LiCoO2; these also are investigated as cathode materials for Li-ion batteries.
Headspace, Volatile and Semi-Volatile Organic Compounds Diversity and Radical Scavenging Activity of Ultrasonic Solvent Extracts from Amorpha fruticosa Honey Samples
Authors: Jerković Igor , Marijanović Zvonimir , Kezić Janja , Gugić Mirko
Published: July 2009

Volatile organic compounds of Amorpha fruticosa honey samples were isolated by headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) and ultrasonic solvent extraction (USE), followed by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry analyses (GC, GC-MS), in order to obtain complementary data for overall characterization of the honey aroma. The headspace of the honey was dominated by 2-phenylethanol (38.3–58.4%), while other major compounds were trans- and cis-linalool oxides, benzaldehyde and benzyl alcohol. 2-Phenylethanol (10.5–16.8%) and methyl syringate (5.8–8.2%) were the major compounds of ultrasonic solvent extracts, with an array of small percentages of linalool, benzene and benzoic acid derivatives, aliphatic hydrocarbons and alcohols, furan derivatives and others. The scavenging ability of the series of concentrations of the honey ultrasonic solvent extracts and the corresponding honey samples was tested by a DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) assay. Approximately 25 times lower concentration ranges (up to 2 g/L) of the extracts exhibited significantly higher free radical scavenging potential with respect to the honey samples.
Coumarins from Angelica Lucida L. - Antibacterial Activities
Authors: Widelski Jaroslaw , Popova Milena , Graikou Konstantia , Glowniak Kazimierz , Chinou Ioanna
Published: July 2009

The first phytochemical investigation of the fruits of Angelica lucida has led to the isolation and characterization of five known coumarins (imperatorin, isoimperatorin, heraclenol, oxypeucedanin hydrate and heraclenin). All isolated compounds were identified by means of spectral and literature data. The extracts and the isolated constituents from A. lucida have been also evaluated for their antimicrobial activity against six Gram positive and negative bacteria, two oral pathogens and three human pathogenic fungi, exhibiting an interesting antimicrobial profile.
New Synthesis and Antiparasitic Activity of Model 5-Aryl-1-methyl-4-nitroimidazoles
Authors: Saadeh Haythem  A. , Mosleh Ibrahim  M. , El-Abadelah Mustafa  M.
Published: July 2009

A number of 5-aryl-1-methyl-4-nitroimidazoles 5a-f have been synthesized in good yields by the Suzuki coupling reaction between 5-chloro-1-methyl-4-nitroimidazole (3) and arylboronic acids 4a-f, aided by dichlorobis-(triphenylphosphine)palladium(II), K2CO3, and tetrabutylammonium bromide in water at 70-80 °C. Compounds 5a-f were characterized by elemental analysis, NMR and MS spectral data. On the basis of in vitro screening data, 5-(3-chlorophenyl)-1-methyl-4-nitro-1H-imidazole (5f)exhibited potent lethal activity against Entamoeba histolytica and Giardia intestinalis with IC50 = 1.47 µM/mL, a value lower by a factor of two than that of the standard drug, metronidazole. The boosted activity of 5f was not accompanied by any increased cytotoxicity.The rest of the series also exhibited potent antiparasitic activity with IC50 valuesin the 1.72-4.43 µM/mL range. The cytotoxicity of the derivatives 5c and 5e was increased compared to the precursor compound, metronidazole, although they remain non-cytotoxic at concentrations much higher than the antiparasitic concentration of the two derivatives.
Synthesis of N-Substituted 5-Iodouracils as Antimicrobial and Anticancer Agents
Authors: Prachayasittikul Supaluk , Sornsongkhram Nirun , Pingaew Ratchanok , Worachartcheewan Apilak , Ruchirawat Somsak , Prachayasittikul Virapong
Published: July 2009

This study reports the synthesis of some substituted 5-iodouracils and their bioactivities. Alkylation of 5-iodouracils gave predominately N1-substituted-(R)-5-iodouracil compounds 7a-d (R = n-C4H9, s-C4H9, CH2C6H11, CH2C6H5) together with N1,N3-disubstituted (R) analogs 8a-b (R = n-C4H9, CH2C6H11). Their antimicrobial activity was tested against 27 strains of microorganisms using the agar dilution method. The analogs 7a, 7c and 7d displayed 25-50% inhibition against Branhamella catarrhalis, Neisseria mucosa and Streptococcus pyogenes at 0.128 mg/mL. No antimalarial activity was detected for any of the analogs when tested against Plasmodium falciparum (T9.94). Their anticancer activity was also examined. Cyclohexylmethyl analogs 7c and 8b inhibited the growth of HepG2 cells. Significantly, N1,N3-dicyclohexylmethyl analog 8b displayed the most potent anticancer activity, with an IC50 of 16.5 mg/mL. These 5-iodouracil analogs represent a new group of anticancer and antibacterial agents with potential for development for medicinal applications.
A 1,000 Frames/s Programmable Vision Chip with Variable Resolution and Row-Pixel-Mixed Parallel Image Processors
Authors: Lin Qingyu , Miao Wei , Zhang Wancheng , Fu Qiuyu , Wu Nanjian
Published: July 2009

A programmable vision chip with variable resolution and row-pixel-mixed parallel image processors is presented. The chip consists of a CMOS sensor array, with row-parallel 6-bit Algorithmic ADCs, row-parallel gray-scale image processors, pixel-parallel SIMD Processing Element (PE) array, and instruction controller. The resolution of the image in the chip is variable: high resolution for a focused area and low resolution for general view. It implements gray-scale and binary mathematical morphology algorithms in series to carry out low-level and mid-level image processing and sends out features of the image for various applications. It can perform image processing at over 1,000 frames/s (fps). A prototype chip with 64 × 64 pixels resolution and 6-bit gray-scale image is fabricated in 0.18 mm Standard CMOS process. The area size of chip is 1.5 mm × 3.5 mm. Each pixel size is 9.5 μm × 9.5 μm and each processing element size is 23 μm × 29 μm. The experiment results demonstrate that the chip can perform low-level and mid-level image processing and it can be applied in the real-time vision applications, such as high speed target tracking.
Oscillation Control Algorithms for Resonant Sensors with Applications to Vibratory Gyroscopes
Authors: Park Sungsu , Tan Chin-Woo , Kim Haedong , Hong Sung Kyung
Published: July 2009

We present two oscillation control algorithms for resonant sensors such as vibratory gyroscopes. One control algorithm tracks the resonant frequency of the resonator and the other algorithm tunes it to the specified resonant frequency by altering the resonator dynamics. Both algorithms maintain the specified amplitude of oscillations. The stability of each of the control systems is analyzed using the averaging method, and quantitative guidelines are given for selecting the control gains needed to achieve stability. The effects of displacement measurement noise on the accuracy of tracking and estimation of the resonant frequency are also analyzed. The proposed control algorithms are applied to two important problems in a vibratory gyroscope. The first is the leading-following resonator problem in the drive axis of MEMS dual-mass vibratory gyroscope where there is no mechanical linkage between the two proof-masses and the second is the on-line modal frequency matching problem in a general vibratory gyroscope. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed control algorithms are effective. They ensure the proof-masses to oscillate in an anti-phase manner with the same resonant frequency and oscillation amplitude in a dual-mass gyroscope, and two modal frequencies to match in a general vibratory gyroscope.
HBV-Specific Adaptive Immunity
Authors: Bertoletti Antonio , Tan Anthony  T. , Gehring Adam  J.
Published: July 2009

The successful control of HBV infection requires an efficient expansion of distinct elements of the adaptive immune system (B cells, helper and cytotoxic T cells) that, due to the hepatotropic nature of HBV, need to operate in the liver parenchyma. In this respect, we will discuss broad features of HBV immunity in patients with resolved or chronic HBV infection and analyze how the liver environment can directly modulate HBV-immunity.
A Simple Breeding Protocol for the Procurement of Accurately Staged Rat Donor Embryos for Neural Transplantation
Authors: Weyrauch U. M. , Torres E. M. , Baird A. L. , Dunnett S. B.
Published: July 2009

Obtaining accurately staged rat embryos can be difficult because of the variety of breeding protocols employed and because precise staging cannot be confirmed until excision of the embryos from the dam. The detection of estrus, pairing of animals, and confirmation of pregnancies is generally left to commercial suppliers, as in-house breeding can be laborious and unpredictable. Here we describe a simple, reliable in-house breeding protocol for the generation of accurately staged embryos as assessed by measurements of average crown to rump length (CRL).
La Seguridad y la Defensa en la España del siglo XXI: diez reflexiones
Authors: Marsal Muntalá Jordi
Published: July 2009

El autor realiza una serie de reflexiones sobre la evolución de la Defensa en los últimos años, la situación actual y algunas perspectivas de futuro. La Cultura de Defensa no es algo estático sino que evoluciona con la realidad social y con la percepción que los ciudadanos tienen de esta realidad. La existencia o no de un amplio consenso sobre la política de seguridad y defensa incide en la percepción de la seguridad y de la cultura de defensa. El papel del parlamento y las nuevas concepciones de la seguridad deben influir positivamente en el desarrollo de esta cultura.
Política europea de Seguridad y Defensa: una aproximación militar
Authors: Sanz Roldán Félix
Published: July 2009

El cambio de siglo ha confirmado la existencia de nuevos peligros: terrorismo transnacional, armas de destrucción masiva y la debilidad de algunos estados en práctica descomposición. A finales de 2003, el Consejo Europeo sentó las bases de la Estrategia Europea de Seguridad (EES), y la Política Europea de Seguridad Común (PESC) y el PESD, definiendo las áreas geográficas de actuación y los actores militares institucionales, como son el Comité Militar de la UE (EUMC) y el Estado Mayor de la UE (EUMS). Otro elemento clave es la Agencia Europea de Defensa. Se analizan también las capacidades militares y los BATTTLEGROUPS (BGs).
La contribución militar a la ayuda humanitaria: Hacia un modelo de cooperación
Authors: Muñoz Castresana José Javier
Published: July 2009

Ante situaciones de crisis humanitarias de gran magnitud, las Fuerzas Armadas pueden aportar un notable valor añadido para mitigar el sufrimiento humano de forma rápida y eficaz, pues disponen de unas características de orden personal y material, de una capacidad para desplegarse ágil y ordenadamente sobre el terreno, para concentrar medios pesados en poco tiempo y para realizar transportes masivos, que las convierten en un instrumento especialmente apto en estas situaciones.
El vínculo entre la innovación militar y civil: hacia un nuevo marco de relación
Authors: Molas Gallart Jordi
Published: July 2009

El sistema de innovación militar que se configuró durante la Guerra Fría en los países occidentales se está viendo sujeto a un proceso de cambio que va a afectar de forma fundamental la relación con su entorno. El artículo presenta las principales características de este sistema que define como “cerrado”, y analiza las razones, tanto tecnológicas como estratégicas, que impulsan un cambio de modelo. El proceso de transición hacia un sistema más abierto, en el que no existen fronteras claras que delimiten el ámbito de lo que se está empezando a definir como “política de defensa y seguridad” será largo y complejo, y afectará al modo de generación y transmisión de conocimiento en su conjunto.
Estudios sobre la Defensa Nacional en las Universidades Públicas y Privadas: La perspectiva de la Universidad CEU-San Pablo
Authors: Seijas Candelas Leopoldo
Published: July 2009

Los estudios sobre la seguridad y la defensa, en el ámbito universitario español, son de reciente implantación. Ha sido difícil que estos dos conceptos entren en las aulas y que contribuyan a lo que se conoce como “cultura de la defensa”. La universidad no puede ir contra la realidad de la sociedad y de las convulsiones de los tiempos actuales, porque en definitiva, ésta es reflejo y proyección de la sociedad total. En este sentido. la Universidad CEU-San Pablo, consciente de la importancia de esta área de conocimiento incorporó esta materia en sus planes de estudios en la carrera de Ciencias de la Información.
Universidad y Defensa: La experiencia del Instituto Universitario General Gutiérrez Mellado
Authors: Sepúlveda Isidro
Published: July 2009

El Instituto Universitario General Gutiérrez Mellado, perteneciente a la UNED, tiene como eje vertebrador de su actividad la investigación y la docencia sobre los grandes temas de la paz, la seguridad y la defensa. Los dos patronos institucionales son la Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia y el Ministerio de Defensa, que con su fundación pretendían contribuir al conocimiento de la seguridad global como un instrumento para la pacífica convivencia entre los ciudadanos y la difusión de la cultura de la defensa. El Instituto está dedicado a los estudios de postgrado (programa de doctorado, Máster, cursos de experto y especialista universitario), la investigación sobre los amplios campos de la seguridad internacional y la difusión del conocimiento, a través de reuniones científicas, publicaciones y análisis en la página web.
Physico-chemical attributes of seed oil from drought stressed sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) plants
Authors: Ali Qasim , Ashraf Muhammad , Anwar Farooq
Published: July 2009

The effects of water deficit conditions on the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of sunflower seed and seed oils were assessed. Two sunflower cultivars (Gulshan-98 and Suncross) were sown in the field. The water stress treatment was applied at the vegetative or the reproductive stage. Analysis of the sunflower seed showed that the oil content decreased (a decline of 10.52% relative to the control) significantly (p ≤ 0.05) due to water stress when imposed at either of the growth stages. Both of the sunflower cultivars studied showed differential responses to water stress with respect to oil oleic and linoleic acid contents. A significant negative correlation in oil oleic and linoleic acid was observed in cv. Gulshan-98 under water deficit conditions as compared to Suncross in which no such effect of water stress on oleic and linoleic acid was observed. Water deficit conditions caused a reduction in linolenic acid in Gulshan-98, whereas it remained unaffected in Suncross. The stearic acid content increased in cv. Gulshan-98 due to drought, whereas no effect due to water stress was observed on oil palmitic acid content in either sunflower cultivar. Overall, oil unsaturated fatty acids remained unchanged in the drought stressed or normally irrigated plants of both cultivars but saturated fatty acid increased in Gulshan-98. Individual (α, γ, and δ) and total tocopherol contents in the seed oil increased significantly with the application of water stress in both cultivars. An assessment of the physical and chemical characteristics of the oils of both sunflower cultivars revealed that drought stress caused a marked increase in the content of un-saponifiable matter (18.75% with respect to the control) and a decrease in iodine value (5.87% with respect to the control), but saponifcation value, density, specific gravity and refractive index remained unchanged.
Determination of metal traces in vegetable oils from Spain and Morocco by graphite chamber atomic absorption spectroscopy following microwave digestion
Authors: Bakkali K. , Ballesteros E. , Souhail B. , Ramos Martos N.
Published: July 2009

A simple, rapid analytical method for determining traces of Cd, Cr, Cu, Mn and Pb in in various types of vegetable oils is proposed. Samples are digested in a microwave oven and then analyzed by atomic absorption spectroscopy with electrothermal atomization. The proposed method exhibits good linearity and sensitivity to the five metals, which it can determine with detection limits over the range 0.06-2.15 Ìg/kg. Its precision, as relative standard deviation, ranges from 2.6 to 4.2%. Its accuracy was assessed by using it to analyze a reference material consisting of Used Oil HU-1, which contains certified metal concentrations, and was found to be quite acceptable. The proposed method was applied to the determination of the five metals in virgin olive, olive, sunflower, maize and pomace olive oils from Spain and Morocco. Based on the results, the metal contents varied among oil types and, for olive oil, also with the country of origin; the oil samples from Morocco contained especially high levels of lead.
The effect of fly attack (Bactrocera oleae) on the quality and phenolic content of Chemlal olive oil
Authors: Tamendjari Abderezak , Angerosa Franca , Mettouchi Soraya , Bellal Mohand Mouloud
Published: July 2009

The attack on olives by the pest Bactrocera oleae has been studied to determine its influence on the olive oil quality (free acidity, peroxide value, UV extinction, sensorial quality), the total polyphenol and the individual phenolic compounds. The Algerian chemlal olive variety was used in this work. Quantitative and qualitative analyses of phenolic compounds were performed using the colorimetric method and the GC coupled with mass spectrometry. The results demonstrated that the attack modified the quality of olive oil and confirmed the existence of hydrolytic and mostly oxidative processess which strongly reduced the amount of O-diphenolic compounds. The extent of modification was much greater when the olives were attacked and harvested at an advanced stage of maturity. Early harvesting could be an effective way to limit the damage caused by B. oleae and to improve the quality of virgin olive oil.
Comportamiento económico de los últimos cazadores- recolectores y primeras evidencias de domesticación en el occidente de Asturias. La Cueva de Mazaculos II
Authors: Marín Arroyo Ana Belén , González Morales Manuel Ramón
Published: July 2009

El estudio del comportamiento económico desarrollado por los últimos grupos de cazadores-recolectores del Mesolítico Cantábrico, fundamentalmente dominado por el abundante registro de la explotación del medio marino, cuenta con reducidas evidencias del consumo de mamíferos terrestres, en lo que supone una ruptura con la tendencia observada durante el Paleolítico Superior. Las causas de este cambio y su implicación en la demografía de la región se investigan en este trabajo mediante el análisis arqueozoológico y tafonómico detallado de la macrofauna del yacimiento de Mazaculos II (Ribadedeva, Asturias), un conchero que alberga uno de los depósitos fósiles más importantes del período. Adicionalmente se presentan los primeros indicios de domesticación en el Cantábrico occidental.
Nuevas fechas radiométricas para la Prehistoria del noroeste de la Península Ibérica: la cueva de Valdavara (Becerreá, Lugo)
Authors: Vaquero Rodríguez Manuel , Alonso Fernández Susana , Alonso Fernández Carmelo , Ameijenda Iglesias Alicia , Blain Hugues Alexandre , Fábregas Valcarce Ramón , Gómez Merino Gala , De Lombera Hermida Arturo , López-García Juan M. , Lorenzo Merino Carlos , Lozano Ruiz Marina , Rodríguez Rellán Carlos , Rosell i Ardèvol Jordi , Serna González María R.
Published: July 2009

El objetivo de este artículo es dar a conocer los primeros resultados de las excavaciones en la cueva de Valdavara (Becerreá, Lugo), prestando especial atención a las dataciones radiométricas que la sitúan entre los pocos yacimientos gallegos que han arrojado fechas correspondientes al Paleolítico Superior. La excavación realizada en el año 2007 permitió documentar dos localizaciones arqueológicas en el marco del mismo sistema cárstico (Valdavara 1 y Valdavara 2). El sondeo iniciado en Valdavara 1 ha permitido identificar hasta el momento dos conjuntos estratigráficos: un conjunto superior correspondiente a la Prehistoria reciente y un conjunto inferior (nivel 4) en el que se han obtenido las fechas del Paleolítico Superior final. En Valdavara 2 se encontró un conjunto de restos humanos de la Edad del Bronce.
Una terracota figurada del IV milenio AC en la vega media del Guadalquivir
Authors: Martínez Sánchez Rafael María , García Benavente Ricardo
Published: July 2009

En este trabajo queremos dar a conocer una nueva manifestación simbólica procedente de un sector clave de la Andalucía Bética aún poco conocido en la dinámica histórica de la Prehistoria reciente del sur peninsular. Tanto las particularidades formales exhibidas por esta figura, como el hecho de haber obtenido su datación por termoluminiscencia, representan una útil contribución a la interpretación de un conjunto heterogéneo de artefactos cuyo carácter ideotécnico queda lejos de ser consensuado.
Learning Mathematics in an Authentic Mobile Environment: the Perceptions of Students
Authors: Baya'a Nimer F. , Daher Wajeeh M.
Published: July 2009

This research reports an experiment which took place in an Arab middle school in Israel. The experiment was led by three pre-service teachers who were carrying out their final project in the field of teaching mathematics using mobile phones. The pre-service teachers worked with 32 eighth grade students to carry out authentic real life outdoor activities in the nature. We used discourse analysis and grounded theory to analyze the perceptions of the students regarding their mathematics learning using mobile phones. We found that the novelty of the experiment and the use of mobile phones in mathematics learning were the main characteristics perceived by the students as influencing their decision to join the experiment. Furthermore, the students perceived various qualities of the mathematics learning that were enabled by the use of mobile phones: (1) exploring mathematics independently (2) learning mathematics through collaboration and team work; where the collaboration is on equal terms (3) learning mathematics in a societal and humanistic environment (4) learning mathematics in authentic real life situations (5) visualizing mathematics and investigating it dynamically (6) carrying out diversified mathematical actions using new and advanced technologies (7) learning mathematics easily and efficiently. In the overall, the students were positively impressed by the potentialities and capabilities of the mobile phones used in the mathematics learning process. This indicates that mathematics education could benefit form utilizing these new technological tools.
Using USB Keys to Promote Mobile Learning
Authors: Rosselle Marilyne , Leclet Dominique , Talon Bénédicte
Published: July 2009

M-learning (i.e. mobile learning) is a field of e-learning that provides learners learning environments using mobile technology. In this context, learning can take place anywhere and anytime, in open and distance learning. Depending on the type of technology it may be done through software called nomadic (i.e. prepared to mobility). Among these technologies, there are those composed of digital interfaces and with autonomy of treatment: Smartphone, PDA, calculator and even mp3 key. In this article we propose to take into account storage devices as mobile technologies. Our focus was on the USB key. We present a procedure to test whether a learning environment embarked on a USB key can be described as nomadic or not. This procedure has been tested on a sample of three ILE (Interactive Learning Environment. This approach has allowed us to define criteria of nomadism, criteria which were then included in the design of a synchronous Weblog on USB key.
Quality Computer Assisted Mobile Learning (CAML) and Distance Education Leadership in Managing Technology Enhanced Learning Management System (TELMS) in the Malaysian Public Tertiary Education
Authors: Tan Luck Lee
Published: July 2009

Abstract - The success in the implementation of a quality computer assisted mobile learning and distance education in a Technology Enhanced Learning Management System is highly rely on the academic leadership in managing and application of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the tertiary level. The effectiveness of its leadership, knowledge, application and management of ICT and learning management system is of utmost important. Successful application and management includes quality and cost effectiveness of universities administration, CAML and distance education leadership development, organizational culture, academic staffs and studentsâ?? attitude and their commitment towards teaching and learning process, support towards the usage of state of the art techno-educational facilities, availability of ICT resources, maintenance and funding of a Learning Management System. This paper will discuss the above factors, which present a comprehensive framework for the implementation of a quality CAML and distance education environment in ICT application and management in the Malaysian public universities. Selected Fifty-two respondents from two Malaysian public universities which offer e Learning and distance education with Learning Management System were acquired. A survey questionnaire is used to determine the effectiveness of ICT and mobile learning application management. Data from the questionnaires were analyzed by using non-parametric and parametric statistics testing. Results of this study show there is significant different in the CAML and distance education leadership in TELMS and the application of ICT and its management in the Malaysian public universities. The study will also address the implementation elements necessary for transforming the public universities and its CAML and distance education teaching and learning process into an effective and result oriented computer assisted mobile learning management model in public universities.
Situated Simulations: A Prototyped Augmented Reality Genre for Learning on the iPhone
Authors: Liestøl Gunnar
Published: July 2009

Rhetorical and aesthetic aspects of digital textuality tends to lag behind developments in hardware and software. Constructive humanistic approaches to digital media may prevent this deficiency. This paper reports on a project where digital genre design is conducted as a method to invent innovative expressive solutions and document structures based on the ongoing convergence of mobility, broadband, high resolution graphics and GPS-positioning technology. The prototyped genre â?? Situated Simulations â?? is a kind of augmented reality system based on the iPhone. The genre in question is aimed at users in contexts of both learning and leisure.
SS: The Future of Seismic Imaging; Reverse Time Migration and Full Wavefield Inversion - Reverse Time Migration Imaging and Model Estimation
Authors: Farmer Paul , Zhou Zheng-Zheng Joe , Jones David
Published: July 2009

The Role of Reverse Time Migration in Imaging and Model Estimation

Introduction

The key depth imaging technology addressed in this article is Reverse Time Migration (RTM). It will be compared to Kirchhoff, beam and other wave equation migration (WEM) techniques. There will be an emphasis on reducing exploration cycle time and risk. Recent trends such as TTI anisotropy and wide azimuth applications will also be discussed. RTM is most suitable in geologic regimes that exhibit significant amounts of salt. Typically, there are contrasts in velocity and steeply dipping features in this setting. The key conclusion from this article will be that by using RTM throughout the imaging sequence, including model building, the total cycle time of the project can be significantly reduced. Exploration risk is also reduced by RTM because it produces images that are more accurate in terms of structure and amplitudes.

Sub-Salt Imaging Challenges

The challenges of subsalt imaging are daunting. Salt structures are formed when salt sheets intrude into the higher-density sediments deposited above them. The resulting domes, walls, pillows, ridges and fountains are complex. They can be free-floating or remain attached to the base salt layer as irregular, mushroom-shaped bodies called diapirs. The map in Figure 1 gives an indication of how common these highly complex salt bodies are in exploration. Imaging in salt rich domains is difficult since the seismic waves reflected off the steep flanks of subsurface features travel near horizontal so it is a problem for standard imaging algorithms to image them. Further the top of salt structures is often highly rugose, which causes the scattering of seismic waves into multiple paths. These factors, if not taken into consideration, can yield misleading information about the location and geometry of prospective formations. In the 80's, the Kirchhoff depth migration method was used to image seismic data. From the 1990's, wave equation migration methods were used in combination with Kirchhoff methods to try to fully resolve structures not adequately resolved with Kirchhoff migration. Starting in 2005, reverse time migration became commercially viable in all phases of the imaging sequence.
The Greater Plutonio Riser Tower.
Authors: de la Cruz Daniel , Zimmermann Charles Alexandre , Neveux Pierre , Louvety Franck
Published: July 2009

The paper presents a general overview of the Greater Plutonio Hybrid Riser Tower. It covers the various phases that led to the realization of this unique system: conception, procurement, fabrication, offshore installation and start up.

This Riser Tower is now installed and operating in Angola in a water depth of 1310m (4300 feet). It gathers 11 risers and one umbilical. It is the largest in diameter and weight installed in the world so far. After concept selection and a detailed design phase, all elements were procured from numerous suppliers and assembled on the Lobito yard in Angola. The tower was then towed in a submerged configuration and upended on the Greater Plutonio site. It was then anchored in position, connected to the flowlines and the FPSO before being tested and used for production.

Some lessons learned for future projects by the Oil Company and the Contractor with particular emphasis on the possibility of extending the use of this concept in ultra deepwater are presented.

Introduction

The Hybrid Riser Tower (HRT) is one of the riser system concepts suitable for deep and ultra deep water field developments. This concept has been used previously on the Garden Banks, Girassol and Rosa Lirio fields. The Greater Plutonio HRT is believed to be the largest installed in the world today. It allows conveying all production and injection fluids of the five BP operated fields on the Greater Plutonio site which are: Galio, Cromio, Paladio, Cobalto and Plutonio. In comparison, the oil production passing through this tower is about the same as the one passing through the three towers of the Girassol field.

The Greater Plutonio HRT was part of a turnkey contract executed by Acergy to provide Umbilicals, Risers and Flowlines to BP and its partners to allow production, injection, mooring, offloading and control functions between the Subsea Production Systems and a spread moored FPSO. The contract was awarded in February 2004 and the first oil production occurred in October 2007.

The present paper provides an overview of the main phases leading to the delivery of the Riser Tower package within the project and some associated Lessons Learned.

Description of the tower

The riser configuration selected for the Greater Plutonio Field Development consists of one single Riser Tower, with a buoyancy tank. The overall configuration is shown hereunder. A riser tower is a bundle of several risers, anchored to the seabed and tensioned by means of buoyancy. It is connected to the FPSO by means of flexible jumpers and to the seabed flowlines termination assemblies by means of spools. These spools are designed to accommodate tower inclination (mainly due to the FPSO excursions), as well as expansion of both risers and flowlines.
SS: Testing in the Offshore: Benefits of Physical Modeling Deepwater Pipeline and Riser Instalations
Authors: Brown Robert J.
Published: July 2009

Considering the magnitude and complexity of the new oil and gas deep-water developments new tools are required to fully understand the inter relationship between the drilling, production and transportation systems. Physical modeling in deep water has been shown to be an extremely useful tool. This aids defining the relationships between the components physically and then coupling the scheduling function during all phases of the installation. When considering a deepwater moored structure the entire footprint covers a vast area and usually consists of twelve to fourteen mooring lines. Through this maze there can be as many as twenty to thirty lines servicing the production area. On top of this, pipelines are required to traverse this area. The technique to maneuver amongst this mess is called " keelhauling??. Keelhauling is the ability of the contractors with two or three large vessels tied together with a heavy cable to safely and efficiently work amongst the many elements. In addition you need a remote operated vehicle (ROV) the size of a large sport utility vehicle (SUV) in a garage be lowered to the bottom, then swim out some fifteen hundred feet and do hard work. It has to connect and disconnect cables holding up to 800 tons. During the modeling phase vessel operators, riggers and field engineers obtain a valuable understanding of the three dimensional aspects of working among pipelines, manifolds, risers and mooring lines safely. In fact the riggers use this as a tool for establishing their cable requirements, pendant lengths, and spooling capacities for a safe operation. The latest modeling has incorporated the surface support equipment " watch circles?? for avoiding clashing amongst the various components. The information acquired shows the potential problem areas for which contingency plans can be developed and safe installations achieved.

Introduction

Complex deepwater developments require planning and insight that was not required for the shallow water installations in past. The deeper the water, the more the engineer is required to think three dimensionally. Model simulation has evolved to the stage that it is now being used with a high degree of accuracy three dimensionally. It provides a complete picture of projects for the engineer and clients and aids them to understand the clashing between the various offshore production systems. The deepwater systems require moorings that are complex and cover an area of some ten square miles. This is even more complicated when several different floating vessels vie for the same area. These can include forms of drilling and production risers along with flowlines, water injection and export systems. One would question how the use of modeling with strings versus chains would have identical curves. This is true when each are on the same starting and ending positions. The only difference is that the vertical force to hold up a chain is much greater than that of a string. This is the definition of the properties of a " catenary??.