bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Trials Perception in Rheumatology Patients: Experience from a Single Rheumatology Tertiary Center
Authors: Ciurtin Coziana , Leandro Maria , Fitz-Clarence Halina , Nguyen Hanh , Walsh Stephen B. , Isenberg David A.
Published: April 2015

Objective.

To investigate the perception and willingness of rheumatology patients to participate in clinical trials. No previous similar studies are available.

Methods.

We conducted a cross-sectional survey of rheumatology patients using a questionnaire, which comprised 2 demographic questions, two 5-point Likert opinion questions, 19 true/false/unsure knowledge questions, and 1 open question addressing what would help the participant to gain a better understanding about clinical trials.

Results.

Eighty-five patients returned the questionnaires (response rate 84.1%). The mean number of correct answers to the 19 knowledge questions was 10.5 ± 2.87. Patients with higher versus lower levels of education had significantly higher knowledge scores (mean correct answers 59.4 ± 13.1 vs 39.8 ± 20.4, p = 0.013). They also expressed greater willingness to take part in research (87.5% vs 48.2%, p < 0.001). The patients who agreed to participate in research provided significantly more correct answers (59.4 ± 15.3% vs 47.7 ± 27.2%, p = 0.032). Poor disease control as the main reason to join a clinical trial correlated well with patients’ previous participation in research (r = 0.71; p < 0.05) and the lack of understanding of research principles (defined as less than 50% correct answers to the knowledge questions) correlated with the lack of willingness to participate in clinical trials (r = 0.72; p < 0.05).

Conclusion.

The results of our study revealed that patients lack information about clinical trials (the correct response rate was only slightly above 50%), and that they had a moderate willingness to take part in clinical trials. The need for educational programs about clinical research was highlighted by the participants to the survey.
Collectionneurs d’art contemporain : des acteurs méconnus de la vie artistique
Authors: Sagot-Duvauroux Dominique , Moureau Nathalie , Vidal Marion
Published: March 2015

Qu’est-ce qu’un collectionneur ? Si le nom a fait officiellement son entrée dans le dictionnaire en 1789 1 , sa définition recouvre des pratiques différentes : certaines approches mettent en avant la valeur subjective attachée à l’objet, tandis que d’autres soulignent l’importance du processus d’accumulation et de sélection. De nombreux traits semblent pouvoir définir communément les collectionneurs, quel que soit l’objet de la collection, coquillage, timbre, papillon ou encore œuvre d’art. Toutefois, les collectionneurs qui soutiennent l’art « en train de se faire » se distinguent par des pratiques plus variées que celles usuellement relevées chez leurs homologues. En effet, en plus d’être acquéreur, le collectionneur d’art contemporain est susceptible d’agir sur la vie artistique, notamment grâce au soutien matériel apporté aux artistes et en contribuant à la construction de la valeur artistique. Cette particularité est d’autant plus notable que l’engagement du collectionneur n’est pas l’apanage d’une seule élite fortunée, comme le montre la typologie des profils de collectionneurs établie ici. Il apparaît en effet que les pratiques de collectionneurs se déploient le long d’un continuum allant du collectionneur acquéreur, mû par le besoin de posséder une œuvre, au collectionneur acteur, pour lequel l’acquisition n’est que l’expression de sa volonté de contribuer à la vitalité de la scène artistique.
L’Europe sociale en chantier(s)
Authors: Béthoux Élodie
Published: April 2015

Les doutes sur l’existence de l’Europe sociale se montrent récurrents, dans le débat public comme sur la scène académique, alors même que l’Union européenne apparaît comme l’espace dans lequel les tentatives pour poser des cadres collectifs concernant les relations de travail et d’emploi ont été, à ce jour, les plus ambitieuses. Comment expliquer que ces réalisations substantielles laissent le plus souvent la place aux constats sur la fragile dimension sociale de l’Europe ? Cet article y répond en montrant comment les chantiers réalisés au fil des décennies, ayant donné corps à un ensemble de règles et pratiques inédites, se trouvent en partie invisibilisés par la nature même prise par l’Europe sociale comme par son instrumentalisation politique, et sont par ailleurs remis en cause, aujourd’hui, face à la crise économique et aux derniers élargissements.
La répression de la fraude monétaire par le Comité de surveillance lillois (mars 1793-octobre 1795)
Authors: Sénéca Justine
Published: March 2015

La question de la fraude monétaire et de sa répression par un comité de surveillance, n’ayant pas été traitée dans les précédentes études faites sur les comités de surveillance, fait l’objet du présent article. En dépit des lois et des décrets pris par l’Assemblée, puis par la Convention Nationale, prévoyant des peines et des sanctions pour tout fraudeur, il est apparu que les infractions monétaires, revêtant plusieurs formes, ont pu être relevées par le comité lillois. Fait original, en plus des dispositions prises par les autorités, le Comité de surveillance lillois prend ses propres initiatives afin d’endiguer la, ou plutôt les fraudes.
Monnaies et circulation monétaire dans le département du Nord au lendemain du Premier Empire
Authors: de Oliveira Matthieu
Published: March 2015

Alors que la France connaît trois changements de régime politique et subit deux invasions militaires puis une occupation entre 1814 et 1818, le département du Nord est celui sur lequel pèse la charge la plus lourde. Il accueille à lui seul le tiers des troupes d’occupation et celles-ci vivent pour partie de l’importante indemnité acquittée par la France et elles paient également une partie de leurs dépenses dans leur monnaie. Cette expérience originale de multi-circulation monétaire a des répercussions directes sur la frappe de pièces d’or et d’argent par la Monnaie de Lille jusqu’au milieu des années 1820, alors que la production monétaire tend à se concentrer dans quelques ateliers seulement.
La force d’une illusion. La Monnaie de Lille et l’autonomie de la place lilloise au premier xix e siècle
Authors: Mastin Jean-Luc
Published: March 2015

Institution hybride, à la fois publique et privée, dépendant du ministère des Finances et exploitée par une entreprise privée (négoce, banque et industrie), la Monnaie est le cœur de la place lilloise : elle en aspire le papier commercial (notamment sur Paris) et y injecte des espèces. Sous la direction d’Alexandre Beaussier (1816-1840), elle consolide son rang de premier hôtel des monnaies de province et devient même le premier de France sous Charles Diérickx (1840-1846). Grâce à sa situation frontalière, elle s’approvisionne en Belgique et sert de relais entre les places d’Europe du Nord-Ouest (Bruxelles, Anvers, Londres, Hambourg) et Paris. Elle s’insère en outre dans le « système des Rothschild », ce qui contribue à sa puissance mais aussi à sa mort : elle ferme en 1846, victime de la concentration de la frappe à Paris, dirigée par Diérickx depuis 1845. Ardemment défendue par la place car jugée indispensable à son autonomie financière (elle permet de ne pas recourir à la Banque de France), sa production est cependant trop irrégulière et suffit de moins en moins aux besoins financiers croissants liés à l’industrialisation. Après 1846, la Banque de Lille, banque d’émission créée en 1836 par Beaussier, ne parvient pas davantage à réguler le marché de l’argent. En 1848 sa transformation en succursale de la Banque de France permet au contraire l’émergence d’un système bancaire moderne.
First Documentation of Mountain Redbelly Dace Chrosomus oreas in Pennsylvania
Authors: Grant Christopher , Buonaccorsi Vincent , Weimer Alexander , Leibensperger Krista
Published: April 2015

Two populations of Chrosomus species were found in two central Pennsylvania streams during electrofishing surveys in July and August of 2011. Analysis of sequence data from the cytochrome b region of the mitochondrial DNA confirmed visual observations that these fish were most closely related to C. oreas; a minnow-fish commonly occurring in Virginia drainages, but never documented in Pennsylvania. Limited genetic analysis suggests that the origin of these fish is either the result of human relocation from genetically uncharacterized native groups of C. oreas, or persistent relict populations. The documentation of this new fish to Pennsylvania, and uncertainty regarding their origin, underscores the need to perform a thorough phylogeographic assessment of C. oreas.
Green Infrastructure Development in Sustainable Water Resources Management System
Authors: Uniaty Quintarina
Published: March 2015

The main challenge in the twenty-first century is to work towards a more resilient urban world and sustainable. In the context of a global urban strategy, endurance is the attention to the capacity of urban systems, including the natural environment, the built environment, social and economic elements; to be able to manage change, to learn from a difficult situation and be in a position to rise from urban problems. Globally, the townsfolk face a water crisis within the next ten years, as the impact of climate change in exhaust emissions will affect the quality of air, land and water; which will ultimately reduce the quality of the environment. Sustainability questioned whether certain aspects of the day-to-day activities, and the systems of community life, can be ongoing into the futureonce again from the standpoint of social, economic and environmental. Eco city is a phrase that is often used in ecological issues raised in the concept of sustainable urban planning and green city embodiment of the challenges ahead in sustainable economic development, and the future development of smart green city. The convergence of technology and environmental issues has changed the world economy that offers a green city promising future - a city that appreciates natural heritage and offer all parties involved. This paper will discuss green infrastructure as water management control system in urban development concepts that contribute to build a sustainable green city management.Key words : green infrastructure, water management system.
Identifying Functional Factor for Developing the Community Centre in Kuala Lumpur
Authors: Jafari Nastaran , Utaberta Nangkula
Published: March 2015

Malaysian community centres in city like the developed countries is too bear the responsibility of providing community facilities to the urban mass. Community centre is one of the main social facilities with the purpose of facilitating community interaction and finally, contributing community development in urban areas. The study frames by in-depth interview with the deputy director of urban design, building department and professional expert in urban design project. this study assessed approaches that participations can use to evaluate critical factors for developing the community centres.A city like Kuala Lumpur, wherescarcity of spaces for community gathering and interaction is severe, it is urgent to resolve theproblems and enhance the potentials for ensuring effective and multipurpose uses of thecommunity centres. This research approaches that community centre can be a pole of community development.
Assessing the Residents’ Preference of Awareness Regarding Urban Agriculture at Rooftop Garden
Authors: Jafari Neda , Mohd Yunos Mohd Yazid , Mydin Md Azree Othuman , Mohd Tahir Osman
Published: March 2015

Roof garden can be used as natural environment in an urban setting. Rooftop agriculture with green roof systems can become an attractive possibility. The aesthetic value of green roofs is considered important in cities where roof escapes are dominated by gray color and unattractive structures. The instant objective of this research was to examine on question: What is the resident’s preference of awareness regarding urban agriculture at rooftop garden? The purpose of this study is to understand the resident’s preference of awareness regarding urban agriculture at rooftop garden. The awareness and potential of rooftop urban agriculture are examined. In this research a method presented quantitative - survey questionnaire distributed among of residents in The Heritage condominium in Selangor and Sri Putramas 2 in Kuala Lumpur. The result is expected to lead towards cognition and awareness to elevate sustainable building and promoting the usage of urban agriculture at rooftop gardening residential building. In conclusion of this research contain the result of survey questionnaire that related to awareness of urban agriculture at rooftop garden who residents take part in the survey are agree with this section. Furthermore, this study help to residents for receive a perfect environmental in their live area.
Legal Provision Allied to Conservation of Heritage Buildings in Penang
Authors: Othuman Mydin Md Azree , Jasme Shafarina , Mohd Nawi Mohd Nasrun , Utaberta Nangkula , Mohd Yunos Mohd Yazid
Published: March 2015

Heritage culture and building in Penang have become among value asset in Malaysia. George Town inner cities most treasure architecture are located and can divided into several zone, it culture has been moulded by the succession of civilization that arrive and shaped its urban growth. Heritage building in the inner city exposes the sense of compromise between the pioneers, earlier settlers and later immigrants. The significant heritage character of George Town, Penang is reflect upon the predominant pre war buildings, the heritage buildings dates back to between late eighteen century and early nineteenth century. This paper will consider on Penang as World Heritage City, the conservation of the buildings in Penang and also legal provision related to conservation of heritage buildings in Penang.
Residual Compressive Strength of Lightweight Foamed Concrete after Exposure to High Temperatures
Authors: Othuman Mydin Md Azree , Mohd Yunos Mohd Yazid , Mohd Nawi Mohd Nasrun , Che Ani Adi Irfan
Published: March 2015

Even though lightweight foamed concrete has low mechanical properties compared to normal weight concrete, there is a potential of using this material as partition or load-bearing wall in low-rise residential construction. Before it can be considered for use as a load-bearing element in the building industry, it is necessary to acquire reliable information of its mechanical properties at ambient and high temperatures for quantification of its fire resistance performance. This paper will present the results of experiments that have been carried out to examine and characterize the residual compressive strength of foamed concrete after high temperatures. Foamed concrete with 700 kg/m3 and 1000 kg/m3 density were cast and tested. The compression tests were carried out at ambient temperature, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 and 600°C.
The Mechanical Performance of Waste Concrete Ash as Cement Replacement Materials in Concrete
Authors: Husain Ahmad Hadri , Abas Noor Faisal
Published: March 2015

This paper presents an experimental study of the influences of different percentage waste concrete ash used as cement replacement materials to form a new concrete. The experimental process will be evaluated based on mechanical performance and durability of the concrete. To improve the quality of cement replacement concrete, another concrete admixture was added to work with the waste concrete ash. The mix proportioning of the waste concrete ash used is between 5% and 40% of the replacement cement materials, and for concrete admixture is fixed in optimum amounts. Every specimen is cured in water until it reaches the right age to be tested, and in this experiment, the specimens will be tested at the age of 7, 14, 28, 90 and 180 days. Based on this study, it is revealed that increasing a percentage of waste concrete ash will reduce the quality of concrete. However, the addition of concrete admixture will restore the strength of the concrete. Furthermore, it shows that an increase of Waste Concrete Ash in percentage of cement replacement will cause a loosening between the binders and aggregate, thereby lowering the compressive strength.
Polyacrylate Modified Binder for Sustainable Asphalt Pavement Performances Using Superpave Mix Design
Authors: Ismail Wan Adilah , Endut Intan Rohani , Ishak Sit Zaharah
Published: March 2015

Sustainable asphalt pavement is important in decreasing material costs by improving the existing material such as modified asphalt binders. It is also needed to provide a quality riding for road users. In achieving quality riding, the material selection and mix design must be correctly examined before using in pavement construction. Then, the aims of this study are to determine suitability of material selected by examining the aggregate properties and modified asphalt binder. In modified asphalt binder, 6% of polyacrylate polymer was added as an additive in 500g of binder content to dissolve. It was checked through Superpave gyratory compactor in determining air voids samples in term of height after compacted. The samples were mixed with different percentages of binder content; 5%, 5.5%, 6% and 6.5% to produce control and polyacrylate modified samples. 8 gyratory for Ninitialand 100 gyratory for Ndesignwere used in compaction of samples to determine air voids in term of height. The results show that 5.5% of binder content of polyacrylate modified samples has lower air voids compare than control samples. Thus, modified binders are able to minimize binder usage and save natural sources and also cost by improving bonding between mixtures to prevent pavement failure
The Potency of Waste Paper “Egg Tray” as a Noise-Reduction Material
Authors: Setiyowati Ernaning , Nasrullah Ihsan
Published: March 2015

Noise is one of the problems that often occur in urban areas due to the traffic condition. Noise in a building design depends on the choice of materials as sound absorbers. The type of sound dampening material that already exists is a porous material, a resonator, and a panel. The material often used as an absorber is porous materials, because it is relatively cheaper and lighter, especially to reduce the noise in the narrow spaces such as housing and offices. Various substitutes are made from cheap materials, such as the use of recycled materials of egg tray paper with the size of 40 x 40 centimeters. This is a quantitative research that will measure the place of egg tray paper in reducing noise, using a Sound Level Meter. The use of the egg tray paper is able to show an adequate acoustic quality as noise absorbers, with the average value of NR 22-26 dB.
Optimizing Multi Response Green Machining Using Taguchi Method Based on Grey Relational Analysis
Authors: Mustajib M. Imron , Prasetyo Teguh , Ilhamsah Heri Awalul , Soenoko Rudy , Sugiono
Published: March 2015

This paper presents an optimization of multi response green machining of aluminum 6061 valve. The research is started with study literature and early survey to identify various factors that may likely influence in the green machining.The next step is investigating and collecting experiment data of the control factors (working in 3 levels) for depth of cut, feeding, and cutting speed factor on two responses; power consumption and surface roughness (Ra). The data were evaluated using Taguchi method based on grey relational anaylisis. Statistic tools coupled together with Taguchi design to process the output of the experiment. Finally, the research has successfully to deliver knowledges of the cutting speed and feeding factors have a dominant influence in power consumption and surface roughness of the green machining process
The Genius Idea of Using Local Material on Javanese House Architecture
Authors: Hardiyati  , Prijotomo Josef , Rachmawati Murni
Published: March 2015

Using the local materials will contribute to the main substance in formingthe architecture, in creating the circumstances and in giving the texture. To understand how to use the material effectively, the building expert must have an understanding of local materialscharacteristicthat have been used historically by the consciousness of innovation in the use of the material itself, thus the design approach is easy to develop. Javanesepeople have a genius idea in the use of materials to make their houses, It shows the level of knowledge in the use of materials that have become part of the values​​, norms in the community that have been institutionalized. Genius idea itself expressed in the use of the local material has been representing the expression of sense, intelligence thoughts, ideas, anddream. The points that are responses to the human need for shelter, the surrounding natural environment, socio-cultural, belief in God are able to transfer the subjective knowledge of the skilled building worker and society to the next generation The method used in this research was qualitative research. The purposes of this study were to determine and discover the genius idea of ​​the local materials used in the architecture of Jawanese houses. Keywords: Javanese house,local material, genius idea .
Fish Distribution and Composition of Kelantan River Systems, Kelantan, Malaysia
Authors: Hashim Rohasliney , Azlan Mohd Rezza Petra , Mohd Zainuddin Wan Mohd Amzar , Jusoh Siti Amirah , Md Sah Amir Shah Ruddin
Published: March 2015

Fish from three major rivers namely Pengkalan Chepa, Kelantan, and Galas rivers in Kelantan, Malaysia was caught using gill-nets with separate mesh sizes of 1, 2, 3, and 4 inches, respectively. There were 170 fish collected from the PCR systems, which represented 18 families and 21 species (2008-2009). The most common fishes, based on total fish captured, were Ikan duri (Arius maculatus) and Puyu (Anabas testudineus). A total of 245 individual fish were collected from KR (2010-2012) which comprised of 7 families and 22 fish species with the highest number of individual fish (51) collected during this survey was the spotted catfish (Arius maculatus). A total of 562 fish specimens representing 12 families and 32 species were captured from riverine monitoring in the GR systems (2008-2010).
Community Participation in Management of Mangrove Villages with Renewable Energy in Teluk Naga District of Tangerang
Authors: Gunarsa Arri , Krisantia Ina , Mangunsong Nur Intan
Published: March 2015

Mangrove forests have an important role and function in ecological / environmental, social and economic. Currently, mangrove forests have suffered a lot of damage, one of which is in the coastal mangrove ecosystem Tangerang. Tanjung Pasir beach ecosystem condition has suffered damage caused sea water to become cloudy and abrasion occurred in the last three years. To overcome these problems, management through community-based rehabilitation, productive business, the utilization of renewable energy needs to be done. Landscape Development Institute together - with Pertamina has been implementing CSR programs in the area of ​​Tanjung Pasir – Muara and Lemo Teluk Naga.through empowerment, among others, mangrove nurseries, ecotourism development and utilization of renewable energy. The purpose of this paper is to discuss participation in the activities of mangrove villages through renewable energy by using descriptive analysis method. This paper is expected to provide input to coastal development policies
Traditional and Local Ecological Knowledge for Land Use Mapping
Authors: Mohd Ayob Norizawati , Ismail Norhasimah , Masron Tarmiji
Published: March 2015

Land use changes are a key driver in global environmental changes and had a significant impact on the climate at all scales. Various human activities that took place thousands of years ago have an impact on the earth's surface. Today, with the limited supply and high demand, land use crisis became a big issue for the most countries. Changes in land use are not actually only providing a history of the area, but it also describes the way of life of its local communities. In the interdisciplinary research for land use study, cultural values, knowledge and perceptions of knowledge has been recognized as a major factor in determining the adopted approach applied in land use management in that area. Therefore, this paper tries to evaluate the role and potential of the integration of TLEK and GIS in mapping the series of changes in land use.Keyword: Local knowledge, TLEK, land use mapping & conceptual framework
Green Renewable Energy – Risk Need to Be Tackled in Going Green for Air Transportation
Authors: Mohd Noh Hazariah , Rodriges Gustavo Alonso , Abdul Rahman Nor Aida
Published: March 2015

This paper will discuss on issues of using alternative fuel (bio jet fuel) for 50% mixing or replacing current Jet A/ Jet A-1 fuel in relationship towards aircraft fuel systems. Two key issues aviation biofuel; Technical Risk and Quality Risk will be evaluated. Technical risk, such as storage stabilityfor biological growth,thermal stabilityin relation to fuel system components coking, the outcomes fromcombustion propertiesandmaterial compatibilityto the engine system and discussions on the level of thetrace of contaminationlike metals or micronutrients. In quality risk, the issues need to be measured: the inconsistency of the products such as thesource dependencies,robustnesscontrolandfragmented enterprise.These two issues need to be measured in order to create a clear pathway for Air Transport in sustainable manner, where further research towards reliability and sustainability for future aircraft performance and maintenance can be correlated.
Daylighting Strategies in Iranian Vernacular Residential Buildings in Hot and Dry Climate
Authors: Maghsoudi Nia Elham , Hajihasani Titi , Mohd Yunos Mohd Yazid , Abdul Rahman Nordin
Published: March 2015

Daylighting strategies and control of it, plays a significant role in energy efficiency and provision of visual comforts in buildings. This study conducted a review of literature and observation in a hot and dry region of Iran in order to investigate daylighting strategies and control of it by shading devices in the vernacular residential buildings. The results show thatdaylight in vernacular rooms was provided through door, window, Rozan, Moshabak, and Goljam. These components were equipped with thevertical and horizontalshading devices such as Orsi, Sarsayeh, Tabeshband and Kharakpoushto control the sunlight. The vernacular lighting strategy was in response to the energy efficiency and provided visual comfort.The vernacular concepts and schemes still can be adopted and reused by architects and developers. The study recommends appropriate daylight schemes and shading devices in design phase to achieve energy efficiency in new residential buildings.
A Biomimicry Approach on an Architectural Design and Planning Case Study: The Application of Photovoltaic and Green Roof Technologies
Authors: Hendarti Religiana , Mariana Yosica
Published: March 2015

This paper presents the study of the integration of Photovoltaic (PV) module and green roof on a building. Essentially, this integration could be considered as an extend understanding of a concept, namely “Biomimicry”. Biomimicry, in brief, is an approach that mimics the philosophy of flora, fauna or entire ecosystems and these are emulated as a basis for design. The implementation of this approach in this project is to utilize photovoltaic and green roof as a part of a building in terms of imitating the plant biological activity. To accommodate the process of that implementation, a simulation study was conducted by using software called “EnergyPlus”. The simulation focused on investigating heat transfer over those two technologies. The deliverables of this study are the electricity production and the surface temperature reduction. A comparison study on energy transfer is also presented here to illustrate the application of the biomimicry concept on an architectural design.
Soil Arthropods Diversity in Manggis Natural Reserve and Coffee Agroforestry System Kediri Regency, Indonesia
Authors: Suheriyanto Dwi , Soemarno  , Yanuwiadi Bagyo , Leksono Amin Setyo
Published: March 2015

Soil arthropods have role as herbivores, decomposers, predators and bioindicators of the various functions on ecosystems. Soil arthropods have an important role in increasing and maintaining soil productivity through the decomposition process of organic matter. The research was conducted to investigate abundance and diversity of soil arthropods in Manggis Natural Reserve and Coffee Agroforestry System. Hand-shorting methods and pitfall traps were used to catch soil arthropods. The abundance of soil arthropods were analyzed into diversity index. The result showed that the Natural Reserve has higher family number of soil arthropod and diversity index than the Agroforestry System. Individual of Hymenoptera order is very abundant in both location.
Development of Microcontroller Based Potentiometric Transduction Circuit for a Continuous Fluid Level Sensor
Authors: Mohd Nusa Fatin Najwa , Abdullah Mohd Firdaus , Setumin Samsul , Mohd Firdaus Sheikh , Che Ani Adi Irfan , Mohd Tawil Norngainy
Published: March 2015

This paper presents the development of microcontroller based potentiometric transduction circuit for a continuous fluid level sensor. The purpose system involved the integration between hardware and software subsystem. For hardware subsystem, the design of potentiometric circuit was tested with theoretical computation, simulation on Proteus VSM software and breadboard circuit. This finding was then used to develop interface for the analog-to-digital converter. For software subsystem, the water level indicator system has been developed using ATMEGA2560 by converting the output from potentiometric circuit into water level with a look-up table. It computes the digital data conversion into desired reading and displays data through the second hardware subsystem which is liquid crystal display. A potentiometric indicator for a continuous fluid level sensor to detect level of water ponding on the flat roof was developed. It was comprised of a potentiometric transduction stage and follower stage. From the experiment, it was shown that the potentiometric circuit designed was able to report changes in the water in a different level. The integration of the continuous fluid level sensor with the potentiometric indicator system will have a significant impact on the practice of sensor integration.
Kuala Lumpur Chinatown Pre-War Shophouses (Adaptive Re-Use) and City Image
Authors: Toong Yong Seng , Utaberta Nangkula
Published: March 2015

The terminology and concept of city image is very much related to good city planning and reflects strong image which, defined by Kelvin Andrew Lynch, a town-planner. He elaborates such terminology with regarding to people perception on urban space in term of city legibility and image-ability. Elizur who has classified city image as “rich” and “poor” in his study reminds of prototype and stereotype city place respectively. City image generally refers to the characteristic of a true urban image such as skylines, landmarks and panoramas. Architects, urban designers and town-planners play a crucial role in carrying out the task of shaping the city image. However, when discussion on city image which regards to economics point of view, city image could be interpreted as active use and passive use in accordance to a paper presented by some scholars. Active use means usage of the old buildings restoration and preservation which generates incomes to cover their building’s maintenance and expenses. Examples such as cafés, boutique hotels, art galleries. Conversely, passive use does not generate substantial income but contribute to and beneficial of the community. Examples such as community library, museums and other social activity buildings. Both active and passive use are portraying adaptive re-use of the old buildings. This paper unfolds the common ground which integrates adaptive re-use of pre-war shophouse buildings as architecture concept in Kuala Lumpur Chinatown (KLC) and contributing the city image under the term of conservation. The study is conducted with photographic records, on site study, observation (visual survey technique) and analysis.
Heritage Buildings Conservation Issues of Shophouses in Kuala Lumpur Chinatown
Authors: Toong Yong Seng , Utaberta Nangkula
Published: March 2015

There are new buildings replacing the stock of pre-war shophouses due to the result of the city urbanisation as well as economy pressures in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur Chinatown (KLC) is one of the most visited tourist in the city of Kuala Lumpur due to its local heritage and unique character. However, the KLC’s economic growth and problem of commercialisation is overriding the heritage elements in KLC are apparent. This can be seen through the number of pre-war shophouses reducing, the sign of deterioration by lacking of maintenance, replacement by new tall buildings and et cetera. There is a need to revisiting users’ devaluation of pre-war shophouses (facades) in KLC. The study focuses in KLC which has encompassed Petaling Street, Tun H.S. Lee Street, Sultan Street and, Tun Tan Cheng Lock Street. KLC is not merely a famous tourist spot but also having its historical and heritage values, especially the facades elements. These facades referred as tangible heritage element which has formed the uniqueness to the city of Kuala Lumpur. Despite those shophouse facades’ elements in KLC having historical and heritage values, the activity of demolition, deterioration and façade modification in KLC is signalling the users’ devaluation of pre-war shophouses in KLC. The stock of pre-war shophouses could diminished eventually if there is no proper old building protection steps being carried out, such as restoration and conservation. Besides, the paper would discuss the possibility and appropriate steps for pre-war shophouses façade elements preservation as to be carried out in parallel with city urbanisation.
Changing Transportation System in University Campus by Cycling and its Impact on Socio-Cultural Characteristics
Authors: Vosoughi Shirin , Mohd Yusof Mohd Johari , Baharuddin Nasir
Published: March 2015

In Malaysia, universities’ public transportation is less than ideal. This discourages its vast public acceptance and use, particularly in the favor of using private vehicles. That in turn shows its adverse effects, such as traffic jams, environmental pollution, etc. Universities are respected institutions, and pace-setters, in the position to alter and improve the "intellectual culture" in any society. A college campus is open to the public, and its scrutiny. The way public transportation is managed in the campus, could serve as a model for the whole community in large. If we establish an efficient streamlined public transportation system on campus, well received by the faculty, student body and personnel, it would not be long before it is noted by the whole community. A college campus in a sense is public, and belongs to all. Moreover, University Putra Malaysia (UPM) is a leading institution among the other Malaysian universities, notable for its sustainable physical layout. From the research, interview and discuss had been done regarding the effectiveness of power position and municipal authorities. It includes the input from a questionnaire filled by 100 students of UPM University, regarding improvement of public transportation and green transportation systems. This research also addresses a variety of transportation systems -especially cycling- and their conduciveness to social interaction on campus. In this study, we will have the provisions to incorporate our suggested solutions to campus transportation system, into the overall layout of campus planners and university organizers. Ideas and recommendations for solutions would be considered at the end of the study. The ideas and improvements should be well publicized, to promote the public awareness, and its acceptance. In time, it would be engrained as a cultural improvement. Without acceptance, any change would be of little use. Key words: Socio-culture characteristics, in campus transportation, social interactions.
The Transformation of the Traditional Balinese House in Tourist Villages: Maintaining the Culture and Obtaining Economic Benefit
Authors: Putra I Dewa Gede Agung Diasana , Lozanovska Mirjana , Fuller Robert
Published: March 2015

Bali is well known as a tourist destination in Indonesia. Balinese culture, inspired by the Hindu Balinese religion and expressed by performing religious activities in the village and the traditional Balinese house, has become attractive to tourists. The increase in the number of tourists has caused an increase in the number of tourist facilities constructed in traditional Balinese houses. New pavilions have been built either adjacent to existing pavilions, in the front and around the courtyard by demolishing the wall or old pavilions, or in the backyard. These constructions have changed the setting, form, and spaces of the house where Balinese, based on tri hita karana philosophy, perform socio-cultural activities to maintain a harmonious relationship with God, other human beings and the environment. This new construction gives rise to the question about the continuity of the religious activities in the new settings of the houses. Does the new transformation cause adjustments of these activities? From visual examinations and interviews, this paper examines how rituals continue within the context of house transformation that has come about by the construction of tourist facilities.
Correlation between Acoustic Emission Signals and Friction Behavior under Different Sliding Configurations and Materials Pairs
Authors: Yahiaoui M. , Paris J.Y. , Denape Jean
Published: March 2015

This work focuses on the acoustic emission signals related to three different tribological systems: a rotary sliding contact between WC-Co pins against alumina flat counterfaces, a fretting contact between alumina pins against alumina flat counterfaces and a reciprocating sliding flat on flat contact between thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU) and a steel counterface. This document relates dependences observed between tribological behaviors and variations of acoustic emission signals. Therefore, a third body approach is used to explain these correlations and to highlight the aspect of nature and associated energy of acoustic emission sources.
FSW of Aluminum Alloys: Effect of Operating Parameters on the Weld Quality
Authors: El Mouhri S. , Ettaqi S. , Laazizi A. , Benayoun Stephane
Published: March 2015

The Friction Stir Welding FSW is a welding process in the solid state to join metallic alloys that is used in many industrial applications such as aerospace, automotive and shipbuilding. The process parameters such as the geometry of the tool, the speed of rotation and the speed of advance play a major role in determining the weld quality. In this work, an attempt was made to establish a relationship between the properties of the base material and FSW process parameters. Welds were made using AA1050 Aluminum alloy with different combination of parameters. Metallographic analysis was performed to verify the (faulty or fault-free) weld quality. Tests microhardness, tensile and bending were carried out to study the changes in the mechanical properties in the weld zone.
Production and Structure of Ni-W and Ni+W Coatings
Authors: Popczyk Magdalena , Łosiewicz Bożena
Published: March 2015

The Ni-W alloy coatings and Ni+W composite deposits were prepared by the electrodeposition under the galvanostatic conditions at the deposition current density ofjdep= -300 mA cm-2. The surface morphology and chemical composition of the coatings were examined using a scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), respectively. Phase composition investigations were conducted by X-ray diffraction (XRD) method. It was found that introduction of tungsten powder into nickel matrix allowed to obtain the Ni+W composite coating with very rough surface as compared with the smooth Ni-W alloy coating. Thus obtained Ni+W porous coating may be useful for the need of hydrogen technologies.
Electrolytic Production and Structure of Ni+Al+Ti Composite Coatings
Authors: Napłoszek Iwona , Łągiewka Eugeniusz , Budniok A. , Popczyk Magdalena , Dercz Grzegorz , Łosiewicz Bożena
Published: March 2015

The Ni+Al+Ti composite coatings were prepared by the electrodeposition under the galvanostatic conditions at the deposition current denisty ofjdep= -225 mA cm-2. Phase composition investigations were conducted by X-ray diffraction (XRD) method. The surface morphology, cross-section and chemical composition of the coatings were examined using a scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), respectively. Thermal treatment of the obtained composite coatings was conducted in argon atmosphere at the temperature of 800oC for 12 h. It was found that the as-deposited Ni+28at.%Al+25at.%Ti composite coating is a three-phase material (Ni, Al and Ti phases). The thermal treatment caused the chemical reaction in solid state of the heated coating, and a new multi-phase material was formed containing Ni and Al metallic phases as well as NiAl, Ni2Al3, Ni3Al, NiTi, NiTi2and Ni3Ti intermetallic phases. Thus obtained composite coatings may be useful in the applications as materials in the electrochemical processes.
Hydrogen Evolution Reaction on Nickel-Phosphorus+Titanium Oxides Composite Electrocoatings
Authors: Łosiewicz Bożena
Published: March 2015

One way to obtain hydrogen of high purity on an industrial scale is the electrolysis of water. New electrode materials with the catalytic ability to reduce the energetic barrier of the process have been looked for for many years. The possibility of tailoring the catalytic properties of the electrode material by obtaining it through electrolysis is of particular interest. These electrode materials include materials based on the amorphous nickel matrix containing TiO2as its crystalline phase and non-stoichiometric titanium oxides which, thanks to their coexistence in the layer, make up effective oxidation-reduction pairs that catalyse the evolution of hydrogen. The following study is a critical analysis of the parameters characterizing the Ni-P+Ti oxides composite layers for hydrogen evolution. It includes a discussion on the correlation between the chemical and phase composition, morphology, surface development and roughness of the composite layer and its activity in the process of hydrogen evolution. It was found out that the Ni-P+Ti oxides layers can be recommended as cathode electrode materials for the electrolysis of water.
The Hydrogen Evolution Reaction on Fe Electrode Material in 1 M NaOH Solution
Authors: Popczyk Magdalena , Łosiewicz B.
Published: March 2015

Kinetics of hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) was investigated in 1 M NaOH solution at room temperature on a polycrystalline Fe electrode material which was electrochemically activated and unactivated. Studies of the HER were carried out using steady-state polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements. It was found that for the Fe electrode material after activation atj= -320 mA cm-2for 24 h, the increase in the catalytic activity towards the HER was observed in comparison with that on the unactivated iron electrode material.Acimpedance behavior of the Fe electrode changed from a typical for smooth electrodes before activation (one time constant in the circuit) to that being characteristic for porous electrodes after activation (two time constants in the circuit). The reason for that is formation of solid products of the iron corrosion in alkaline solution which can cause passivation of the electrode surface and catalyse the HER.
Comparison of Electrochemical Properties of Ni+NiAl and Ni Coatings in an Alkaline Solution
Authors: Popczyk Magdalena , Łosiewicz Bożena , Budniok A.
Published: March 2015

The Ni+NiAl nanocomposite coatings were prepared by the electrodeposition under the galvanostatic conditions (jdep= -250 mA cm-2) from the nickel bath containing the suspension of NiAl nanopowder. For comparison, the Ni coatings were also obtained. The combined steady-state polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) investigations of hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) were carried out in 5 M KOH solution at room temperature. It was found that the Ni+NiAl nanocomposite coatings revealed higher apparent electrocataltic activity towards the HER as compared to the comparable Ni deposits due to the increase in the real surface area development and the intrinsic activity.
Electrochemical Characterization of Nickel-Based Composite Coatings Containing Molybdenum or Tungsten Nanopowders
Authors: Popczyk Magdalena , Łosiewicz B. , Budniok A.
Published: March 2015

The Ni+Mo and Ni+W nanocomposite coatings were prepared by electrodeposition under the galvanostatic conditions (jdep= -300 mA cm-2) from the nickel bath containing nanopowders of molybdenum (<100 nm) or tungsten (<150 nm). Kinetics of hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) was studied in 5 M KOH solution at room temeprature. The reason of revealed higher electrochemical activity towards the HER in case of the Ni+Mo nanocomposite electrode as compared to that of the Ni+W nanocomposite electrode, has been discussed.
Effect of Molybdenum Powder Granulation on Electrochemical Properties of Ni+Mo Composite Coatings
Authors: Popczyk Magdalena , Łosiewicz Bożena , Budniok A.
Published: March 2015

The Ni+Mo composite coatings were prepared by electrodeposition under the galvanostatic conditions (jdep = -300 mA cm-2) from the nickel plating bath containing a suspension of molybdenum powder with different granulation (<100 nm, 3-7 μm, <150 μm). Kinetics of hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) was studied in 5 M KOH solution at room temperature using steady-state polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements. It was found that the rate of the HER is dependent on the granulation of Mo powder used as composite component. The highest kinetics of the HER was revealed for the Ni+Mo (3-7 μm) composite electrode, and the increase in its electrochemical activity was attributed to the increase in the real surface area development and the intrinsic activity.
Electrochemical Characterization of Nickel-Phosphorus Based Coatings Containing Cobalt
Authors: Popczyk Magdalena , Łosiewicz B. , Łągiewka Eugeniusz , Budniok A.
Published: March 2015

The Ni-P, Ni-Co-P and Ni-P+Co coatings were obtained in galvanostatic conditions at the current density ofjdep= -200 mA cm-2. A stereoscopic microscope was used for surface morphology characterization of the coatings. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) method was used to determine phase composition of the coatings and the atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) was applied to specify their chemical composition. The behavior of the obtained coatings was investigated in the process of hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) from 5 M KOH using steady-state polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) methods. It was found that introduction into Ni-P amorphous matrix powder of cobalt produced porous electrode materials which could be used for the HER.
A Coulometric Method by Local Anodic Dissolution for Measuring the Thickness of Ni/Cu Multi-Layer Electrocoatings
Authors: Szklarska Magdalena , Dercz Grzegorz , Smołka Agnieszka , Popczyk Magdalena , Łosiewicz Bożena
Published: March 2015

The coulometric or anodic de-plating technique can be used for measuring the thickness of coatings on virtually all substrates such as steel, non-ferrous metals or insulating material bases. This study reports on application of an electrochemical de-plating technique for measuring the thickness of multilayer Ni/Cu coatings electrodeposited on a steel substrate. Principles of a coulometric method by local anodic dissolution according to ISO 2177:2003 have been explained. The phase analysis of the Ni/Cu multi-layer coatings was performed using GIXD technique. The summary of the GIXD diffraction patterns obtained in this experiment indicates that such electrocoating is composed of two sub-layers of nickel and copper.