bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arterial Stiffness Is Associated With Cardiovascular, Renal, Retinal, and Autonomic Disease in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Theilade Simone , Lajer Maria , Persson Frederik , Joergensen Christel , Rossing Peter
Published: November 2012

OBJECTIVE

In patients with type 1 diabetes, we investigated the association between arterial stiffness and diabetes complications.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study including 676 Caucasian patients with type 1 diabetes (374 [55%] men, aged 54 ± 13 years [mean ± SD]) and 51 nondiabetic controls (28 [55%] men, aged 47 ± 13 years). Aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV) was measured with SphygmoCor (AtCor Medical, Sydney, Australia) for 635 patients and all 51 controls.

RESULTS

PWVs (mean ± SD) in patients and controls were 10.4 ± 3.4 and 7.6 ± 1.9 m/s, respectively (P < 0.001). After multivariate adjustment, PWV correlated with age, diabetes duration, urinary albumin excretion rate, heart rate, and blood pressure (P < 0.05 for all). ANCOVA was used for comparisons between groups and adjusted for gender, age, estimated glomerular filtration rate, heart rate, HbA1c, and 24-h mean arterial pressure. PWVs in normoalbuminuric, microalbuminuric, and macroalbuminuric patients were 9.5 ± 3.2, 11.0 ± 3.6, and 11.4 ± 3.0 m/s, respectively (adjusted P < 0.001). PWV in patients with previous cardiovascular disease, versus patients without, was 12.1 ± 3.5 vs. 10.0 ± 3.2 m/s, respectively (adjusted P < 0.001). PWVs in patients with high (≥140/90 mmHg) versus intermediate (130–40/80–89 mmHg) and low (<130/80 mmHg) blood pressure were 11.8 ± 3.6, 10.0 ± 3.0, and 9.8 ± 3.3 m/s, respectively (adjusted P < 0.001). Furthermore, PWV increased with increasing degree of retinopathy: 8.0 ± 2.5 m/s (nil), 10.0 ± 2.8 m/s (simplex), 12.1 ± 3.5 m/s (proliferative), and 12.7 ± 2.4 m/s (blind), respectively (adjusted P < 0.001). Finally, PWV increased with abnormal heart rate variability: 11.5 ± 3.3 m/s vs. 10.1 ± 3.1 m/s (borderline) and 8.1 ± 2.1 m/s (normal) (adjusted P = 0.027).

CONCLUSIONS

Arterial stiffness increased with presence and duration of type 1 diabetes. Furthermore, PWV increased with all the investigated diabetes complications (cardiovascular, renal, retinal, and autonomic disease) independently of other risk factors.
Antioxidized LDL Antibodies Are Associated With Different Metabolic Pathways in Patients With Atherosclerotic Plaque and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Bernal-Lopez M. Rosa , Garrido-Sanchez Lourdes , Gomez-Carrillo Victor , Gallego-Perales Jose Luis , Llorente-Cortes Vicenta , Calleja Fernando , Gomez-Huelgas Ricardo , Badimon Lina , Tinahones Francisco J.
Published: November 2012

OBJECTIVE

Oxidized lipoproteins and antioxidized LDL antibodies (antioxLDL abs) have been detected in human plasma and atherosclerotic lesions. The principle aim of this study was to analyze the possible relationship between IgG and IgM antioxLDL abs and factors involved in different metabolic pathways (inflammation, lipid metabolism, apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest profile) in the occluded popliteal artery (OPA) compared with the femoral vein (FV).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Fifteen patients with advanced atherosclerosis and type 2 diabetes undergoing lower limb amputation participated in this study. Each patient had OPA and FV biopsy specimens and peripheral arterial occlusive disease. By real-time PCR, gene expression was analyzed from the OPA and FV specimens, and antioxLDL ab levels were measured by specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay .

RESULTS

The OPA and FV showed a positive correlation between only IgM antioxLDL ab levels and the expression of genes involved in different metabolic pathways, including inflammation (TFPI), apoptosis (BAX, caspase 3, AKT1), plaque disruption (MMP2 and MMP10), lipid metabolism (SCARB1, PPARg), and cell turnover (CDKN1A), and genes for transcription and growth factors (NFkB and VEGFA, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The results show that gene expression in the metabolic pathways (apoptosis, lipid metabolism, and inflammation) in the OPA and FV are directly related to the levels of IgM antioxLDL abs.
Evaluation of the Value of Fasting Plasma Glucose in the First Prenatal Visit to Diagnose Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in China
Authors: Zhu Wei-wei , Yang Hui-xia , Wei Yu-mei , Yan Jie , Wang Zi-lian , Li Xue-lan , Wu Hai-rong , Li Nan , Zhang Mei-hua , Liu Xing-hui , Zhang Hua , Wang Yun-hui , Niu Jian-min , Gan Yu-jie , Zhong Li-ruo , Wang Yun-feng , Kapur Anil
Published: November 2012

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the value of fasting plasma glucose (FPG) value in the first prenatal visit to diagnose gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Medical records of 17,186 pregnant women attending prenatal clinics in 13 hospitals in China, including the Peking University First Hospital (PUFH), were examined. Patients with pre-GDM were excluded; data for FPG at the first prenatal visit and one-step GDM screening with 75-g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) performed between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

The median ± SD FPG value was 4.58 ± 0.437. FPG decreased with increasing gestational age. FPG level at the first prenatal visit was strongly correlated with GDM diagnosed at 24–28 gestational weeks (χ2 = 959.3, P < 0.001). The incidences of GDM were 37.0, 52.7, and 66.2%, respectively, for women with FPG at the first prenatal visit between 5.10 and 5.59, 5.60 and 6.09, and 6.10–6.99 mmol/L. The data of PUFH were not statistically different from other hospitals.

CONCLUSIONS

Pregnant women (6.10 ≤ FPG < 7.00 mmol/L) should be considered and treated as GDM to improve outcomes; for women with FPG between 5.10 and 6.09 mmol/L, nutrition and exercise advice should be provided. An OGTT should be performed at 24–28 weeks to confirm or rule out GDM. Based on our data, we cannot support an FPG value ≥5.10 mmol/L at the first prenatal visit as the criterion for diagnosis of GDM.
Complexes of platinum and palladium with 4-nitrobenzoic hydrazide: synthesis and cytotoxic activity
Authors: Souza Gustavo , Rodrigues Mônica , Fernandes Lucianno , Silva Priscila , Ruggiero Reinaldo , Pereira-Maia Elene , Guerra Wendell
Published: November 2012

New complexes of platinum and palladium were isolated with 4-nitrobenzoic hydrazide (4-NH) and characterized by spectroscopic techniques. Results show that the ligand is coordinated to metallic ions by the basic nitrogen of NH2 group and have the general structure cis-[M(4-NH)2X2] where M= Pt or Pd and x = Cl or I. The compound III, [Pt(4-NH)2I2], was found to display cytotoxicity (IC50 = 0.96 µmol L−1) against the K562 tumoral cell line. This complex is significantly more cytotoxic than cisplatin.
Susceptibility to hydrolysis of phenylboronic pinacol esters at physiological pH
Authors: Achilli Cesare , Ciana Annarita , Fagnoni Maurizio , Balduini Cesare , Minetti Giampaolo
Published: November 2012

Boronic acids and their esters are highly considered compounds for the design of new drugs and drug delivery devices, particularly as boron-carriers suitable for neutron capture therapy. However, these compounds are only marginally stable in water. Hydrolysis of some phenylboronic pinacol esters is described here. The kinetics is dependent on the substituents in the aromatic ring. Also the pH strongly influences the rate of the reaction, which is considerably accelerated at physiological pH. Therefore, care must be taken when considering these boronic pinacol esters for pharmacological purposes.
Molybdate sulfonic acid: preparation, characterization, and application as an effective and reusable catalyst for octahydroxanthene-1,8-dione synthesis
Authors: Karami Bahador , Zare Zahra , Eskandari Khalil
Published: November 2012

Molybdate sulfonic acid (MSA) as a highly efficient catalyst was synthesized and employed for the synthesis of octahydroxanthene-1,8-dione derivatives. MSA efficiently catalyzed condensation of a wide range of aryl aldehydes and cyclohexane-1,3-diones to obtain octahydroxanthene-1,8-diones. It was characterized by X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and FT-IR spectroscopy. This catalyst can be recovered and reused several times in other reactions maintaining its high activity. This novel and green method is very cheap and has many advantages such as excellent yields, the use of recoverable and eco-friendly catalysts, and a simple work-up procedure.
The stratigraphic complexes of a snowpack
Authors: Kazakov N.A. , Gensiorovskiy J.V. , Zhiruev S.P. , Drevilo M.S.
Published: November 2012

Snowpacks can be described as monogenetic rock, where ice is the basic mineral. They can thus be described in terms of a lithologic complex, that is a cluster of different rocks related by formation process or geological era. The stratigraphic complex of snow cover can be cast as a lithologic complex formed in a certain landscape, passing through stages of sedimentation and diagenesis in similar conditions and forming in the same winter a similar spectrum of stratigraphic columns. The stratigraphic complex possesses similar stratification, structure and texture alongside physical, chemical and mechanical characteristics. In landscapes of the same type located in different regions, the same type of stratigraphic complex is formed. The structural transformation of the snowpack is quantitatively described by coefficients of snowpack recrystallization, secondary stratification and texture. Landscape-indicative properties of snowpacks allow the construction of a unified taxonomic scale of stratigraphic complex with a hierarchy of levels: class, subclass, type, subtype and kind.
Physical Activity, Cognitive Function, and Brain Health: What Is the Role of Exercise Training in the Prevention of Dementia?
Authors: Gregory Sara , Parker Beth , Thompson Paul
Published: November 2012

Tor preventive measures are necessary to attenuate the increased economic and social burden of dementia. This review will focus on the potential for physical activity and exercise training to promote brain health and improve cognitive function via neurophysiological changes. We will review pertinent animal and human research examining the effects of physical activity on cognitive function and neurophysiology. We will discuss cross-sectional and longitudinal studies addressing the relationship between neurocognitive health and cardiorespiratory fitness or habitual activity level. We will then present and discuss longitudinal investigations examining the effects of exercise training on cognitive function and neurophysiology. We will conclude by summarizing our current understanding of the relationship between physical activity and brain health, and present areas for future research given the current gaps in our understanding of this issue.
Emerging Roles of ADAMTSs in Angiogenesis and Cancer
Authors: Kumar Saran , Rao Nithya , Ge Ruowen
Published: November 2012

A Disintegrin-like And Metalloproteinase with ThromboSpondin motifs—ADAMTSs—are a multi-domain, secreted, extracellular zinc metalloproteinase family with 19 members in humans. These extracellular metalloproteinases are known to cleave a wide range of substrates in the extracellular matrix. They have been implicated in various physiological processes, such as extracellular matrix turnover, melanoblast development, interdigital web regression, blood coagulation, ovulation, etc. ADAMTSs are also critical in pathological processes such as arthritis, atherosclerosis, cancer, angiogenesis, wound healing, etc. In the past few years, there has been an explosion of reports concerning the role of ADAMTS family members in angiogenesis and cancer. To date, 10 out of the 19 members have been demonstrated to be involved in regulating angiogenesis and/or cancer. The mechanism involved in their regulation of angiogenesis or cancer differs among different members. Both angiogenesis-dependent and -independent regulation of cancer have been reported. This review summarizes our current understanding on the roles of ADAMTS in angiogenesis and cancer and highlights their implications in cancer therapeutic development.
Effects of Curcumin on the Proliferation and Mineralization of Human Osteoblast-Like Cells: Implications of Nitric Oxide
Authors: Moran Jose , Roncero-Martin Raul , Rodriguez-Velasco Francisco , Calderon-Garcia Julian , Rey-Sanchez Purificacion , Vera Vicente , Canal-Macias Maria , Pedrera-Zamorano Juan
Published: November 2012

Curcumin (diferuloylmethane) is found in the rhizomes of the turmeric plant (Curcuma longa L.) and has been used for centuries as a dietary spice and as a traditional Indian medicine used to treat different conditions. At the cellular level, curcumin modulates important molecular targets: transcription factors, enzymes, cell cycle proteins, cytokines, receptors and cell surface adhesion molecules. Because many of the curcumin targets mentioned above participate in the regulation of bone remodeling, curcumin may affect the skeletal system. Nitric oxide (NO) is a gaseous molecule generated from L-arginine during the catalization of nitric oxide synthase (NOS), and it plays crucial roles in catalization and in the nervous, cardiovascular and immune systems. Human osteoblasts have been shown to express NOS isoforms, and the exact mechanism(s) by which NO regulates bone formation remain unclear. Curcumin has been widely described to inhibit inducible nitric oxide synthase expression and nitric oxide production, at least in part via direct interference in NF-κB activation. In the present study, after exposure of human osteoblast-like cells (MG-63), we have observed that curcumin abrogated inducible NOS expression and decreased NO levels, inhibiting also cell prolifieration. This effect was prevented by the NO donor sodium nitroprusside. Under osteogenic conditions, curcumin also decreased the level of mineralization. Our results indicate that NO plays a role in the osteoblastic profile of MG-63 cells.
Preparation and Mechanical Properties of Photo-Crosslinked Fish Gelatin/Imogolite Nanofiber Composite Hydrogel
Authors: Teramoto Naozumi , Hayashi Akihiko , Yamanaka Kaori , Sakiyama Asako , Nakano Asuka , Shibata Mitsuhiro
Published: November 2012

Fish gelatin (FG) extracted from sea bream scales was reacted with glycidyl methacrylate (GMA), and the product (FG-GMA) was used for photopolymerization using a radical photoinitiator in the presence or absence of imogolite nanofibers in the aqueous solution. The synthesis of FG-GMA was confirmed by 1H NMR spectroscopy, and photopolymerization of FG-GMA was achieved successfully by irradiation with ultraviolet (UV) light for 3 min to yield translucent composite hydrogels. The concentration of FG-GMA varied from 10% to 30% without imogolite, and that of imogolite varied from 0% to 2.0%. A microtomed gel sample was observed with a transmission electron microscope (TEM), and imogolite nanofibers were found to be dispersed finely in the gelatin matrix. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) observation of the lyophilized gel revealed that it had a porous morphology. Mechanical properties of hydrogels were measured by compression tests using a mechanical tester, and viscoelastic properties were measured using a rheometer. The mechanical strength and storage modulus of the hydrogel increased with an increase of imogolite.
Estimation of Evapotranspiration from Fields with and without Cover Crops Using Remote Sensing and in situ Methods
Authors: Hankerson Brett , Kjaersgaard Jeppe , Hay Christopher
Published: November 2012

Estimation of actual evapotranspiration (ETa) based on remotely sensed imagery is very valuable in agricultural regions where ETa rates can vary greatly from field to field. This research utilizes the image processing model METRIC (Mapping Evapotranspiration at high Resolution with Internalized Calibration) to estimate late season, post-harvest ETa rates from fields with a cover crop planted after a cash crop (in this case, a rye/radish/pea mixture planted after spring wheat). Remotely sensed EToF (unit-less fraction of grass-based reference ET, ETo) maps were generated using Erdas Imagine software for a 260 km2 area in northeastern South Dakota, USA. Meteorological information was obtained from a Bowen-Ratio Energy Balance System (BREBS) located within the image. Nine image dates were used for the growing season, from May through October. Five of those nine were captured during the cover crop season. METRIC was found to successfully differentiate between fields with and without cover crops. In a blind comparison, METRIC compared favorably with the estimated ETa rates found using the BREBS (ETλE), with a difference in total estimated ETa for the cover crop season of 7%.
Autonomous Manoeuvring Systems for Collision Avoidance on Single Carriageway Roads
Authors: Jiménez Felipe , Naranjo José , Gómez Óscar
Published: November 2012

The accurate perception of the surroundings of a vehicle has been the subject of study of numerous automotive researchers for many years. Although several projects in this area have been successfully completed, very few prototypes have actually been industrialized and installed in mass produced cars. This indicates that these research efforts must continue in order to improve the present systems. Moreover, the trend to include communication systems in vehicles extends the potential of these perception systems transmitting their information via wireless to other vehicles that may be affected by the surveyed environment. In this paper we present a forward collision warning system based on a laser scanner that is able to detect several potential danger situations. Decision algorithms try to determine the most convenient manoeuvre when evaluating the obstacles’ positions and speeds, road geometry, etc. Once detected, the presented system can act on the actuators of the ego-vehicle as well as transmit this information to other vehicles circulating in the same area using vehicle-to-vehicle communications. The system has been tested for overtaking manoeuvres under different scenarios and the correct actions have been performed.
Recent Progress in Optical Chemical Sensors
Authors: Qazi Hummad , Mohammad Abu , Akram Muhammad
Published: November 2012

Optical chemical sensors have promoted escalating interest in the determination of various pollutants in the environment, which are creating toxicity and may cause serious health problems. This review paper focuses particularly on the recent progress and developments in this field; the working principles and basic classes of optical chemical sensors have been briefly described.
La souffrance a-t-elle un sens ?
Authors: Thibaudier Viviane
Published: November 2012

Jung dans son œuvre parle beaucoup de souffrance. Elle est, pour lui, un facteur déterminant de la croissance psychique et peut à certains moments clés être un repère majeur sur la voie de l’individuation. Elle n’est donc pas seulement à interpréter de manière négative mais peut aussi être entendue comme une énergie qui cherche à se transformer et à nous orienter vers un domaine encore inexploré de notre être le plus profond.
Les « arabesques multicolores » de Jung, expressions et significations dans le vocabulaire pictural du Livre Rouge
Authors: Eveno Bertrand
Published: November 2012

Les peintures disent autre chose que ce qu’elles paraissent seulement montrer. Le vocabulaire pictural de Jung peintre n’est pas gratuit et vaut d’être étudié de près. Après avoir essayé plusieurs manières, naïves ou expertes, Jung donne un énorme développement à ses « arabesques multicolores » et se plaît à en produire des variations nombreuses et virtuoses. Elles sont possiblement une représentation, en langage figuratif, de l’inconscient et des archétypes, par ailleurs impossibles à décrire et à figurer, ni en mots, ni en images.
L'espace sonore analytique et ses arabesques
Authors: Beldent Véronique
Published: November 2012

En 1956, Jung proposait d’intégrer la musique au travail analytique, celle-ci touchant à un matériel archétypique profond. À la condition d’une oreille désencombrée des représentations, un travail analytique à partir de la substance sonore que sont les mouvements vocaux de l’analyste et de l’analysant en séance, peut se dérouler. Conduisant à une forme de régression particulière à l’espace sonore, elle permet qu’une capacité rythmique vivante s’organise à partir de ce qui n’était qu’un chaos sonore.
La vieille dame, l'enfant et l'oiseau
Authors: Fonseca Christiane
Published: November 2012

À partir de la thérapie d’une enfant abandonnique, interrompue prématurément, la thérapeute ressent le besoin d’écrire un conte pour remémorer ce qui s’est créé dans le champ transférentiel : la petite fille, d’abord instable, se lance dans des activités désordonnées, puis, peu à peu, récite des poèmes, peint des tableaux et met en scène des scénarios où elle peut exprimer ce qu’elle ressent ; la thérapeute l’accueille, lui donne un cadre et lui ouvre un nouvel espace relationnel et symbolique. Elle imagine que l’oiseau qui apparaît dans le poème de Prévert, récité par la petite fille, est son double intérieur qui l’aide à créer et à émerger dans une nouvelle vie. Ce conte reflète la créativité commune surgie au cours de cette rencontre.
Savoirs et autonomisation de l'administration dans les réformes de l'Instruction publique sous Jules Ferry (1879-1883)
Authors: Bongrand Philippe
Published: November 2012

Résumé Sous la direction de Jules Ferry, au cours des années 1879-1883, le ministère de l’Instruction publique modifie le recrutement de ses personnels et différencie, au sein de l’État, des rôles politiques, administratifs et pédagogiques. Située au sein de cette triade, l’autonomisation de l’administration est ici principalement envisagée à l’exemple de trois catégories d’agents dont le recrutement est réformé : les inspecteurs de l’enseignement primaire, les rédacteurs et les expéditionnaires de l’administration centrale. Fondé sur des discours ministériels, textes réglementaires et archives de l’administration centrale, l’article montre, dans un premier temps, que l’édification de procédures de recrutement propres à l’administration est, paradoxalement, au service d’objectifs politiques. Ces recrutements prenant la forme spécifique de concours, l’article se consacre, dans un second temps, aux savoirs mobilisés pour différencier des administrateurs ; il montre que ces savoirs sont moins administratifs que scolaires. Pour légitimer l’accès à des rôles de gouvernement, les concours examinés promeuvent ainsi, au détriment d’un argument électif ou professionnel, une logique de méritocratie scolaire.
Le lobbying, un métier encore en devenir dans une France rétive au dialogue avec la société civile
Authors: Garault Emmanuelle , Lecerf Géry
Published: November 2012

Résumé Le lobbying peine encore à être intégré dans les processus de gouvernance en France. Mal défini et mal compris, il demeure souvent perçu comme un élément qui parasite la décision. Pourtant, s’il est fondé sur l’expertise, dans le respect de règles de transparence et d’éthique, le lobbying est une contribution essentielle de la société civile à l’élaboration du droit. Mais, contrairement aux idées reçues, la question de son encadrement réside avant tout dans une remise à plat de la manière dont les institutions dialoguent avec la société civile.
Diagnóstico sobre la gestión documental y de archivos en la Universidad Central Marta Abreu de las Villas. Cuba: Caso de estudio
Authors: Font Aranda Odalys , Ruiz Rodríguez Antonio Ángel , Mena Mugica Mayra Marta
Published: November 2012

La organización de la información es necesaria entre otras razones, para evidenciar los hechos y conservar los documentos; esto se pone de manifiesto en el concepto dado por algunos autores sobre Gestión Documental, lo que se resume en alguna medida en este artículo. Debido a la inexistencia de un Sistema de Gestión Documental y de Archivos en la Universidad Central «Marta Abreu» de las Villas (UCLV) Cuba, se realiza un diagnóstico con el objetivo de implementar un sistema que regule los procesos y permita un control de la documentación. Se utilizan diversas técnicas: entrevistas, encuestas y observaciones; teniendo en cuenta la metodología DIRKS Designing and Implementing Recordkeeping System (Diseño e implementación de sistemas de gestión de registros). Se aborda la importancia de realizar el diagnóstico sobre el tema referenciando investigaciones semejantes a este estudio. Se concluye haciendo una distinción entre las fortalezas y debilidades de la gestión documental y de archivos en dicha institución, las que se tendrán en cuenta para dar cumplimiento al objetivo final de la investigación.
La investigación científica y la educación superior: factores relevantes de los sistemas de innovación
Authors: Alcázar Farías Edna Karina , Lozano Guzmán Alejandro
Published: November 2012

En este trabajo se presenta una revisión del concepto de innovación y la descripción de los diferentes modelos de innovación propuestos por diversos autores. De esta revisión, se seleccionan los modelos de caja negra, de relación en cadena y las recomendaciones plasmadas en la 3ª edición del Manual de Oslo de la OCDE para desarrollar un modelo numérico que permite simular el impacto que la inversión en ciencia y tecnología tiene sobre la sociedad. El modelo desarrollado se aplica para una región que se denomina el Sistema de Innovación Regional de Querétaro (SIRQ), tomando en cuenta el contexto de la situación de la ciencia y la tecnología en México. Para este sistema, se señalan los diferentes factores que se consideran como entradas y salidas del modelo y se explican los valores asignados a cada uno de estos factores. Buscando ilustrar de forma objetiva el potencial de uso que tiene el modelo propuesto, se analizan seis escenarios para la región seleccionada como ejemplo.
Construcción de un instrumento de verificación de la calidad de portales y redes de investigación de carácter científico en Internet
Authors: De-Juanas Ángel , Pardo Rodrigo , Diestro Alfonso , Ferro Amelia , Sampedro Javier
Published: November 2012

En este estudio se propone un instrumento de verificación de la presencia de indicadores de calidad de portales y web de carácter científico, relacionados con las Ciencias Sociales y de la Salud, que ha sido validado por expertos. Se realizaron tres estudios a partir de un diseño no experimental de tipo mixto: análisis de documentos y valoraciones cualitativas y cuantitativas por parte de jueces. El resultado fue el desarrollo de un instrumento, QuaSciWeb, que contiene 6 categorías de análisis que agrupan 57 ítems: 1) Identidad y autoría; 2) Interfaz del usuario; 3) Contenido; 4) Navegación y recuperación de datos; 5) Experiencia de usuario; 6) visibilidad y divulgación. El instrumento permite: a) Valorar la calidad de portales y páginas web de carácter científico; b) identificar los contenidos necesarios para su mejora, y c) proveer de unas directrices concretas que pueden ser usadas por los programadores y diseñadores web.
Physics of shear‐wave intrinsic dispersion and estimation of in situ soil properties: a synthetic VSP appraisal
Authors: Zhubayev Alimzhan , Ghose Ranajit
Published: November 2012

Estimates of in situ porosity and permeability in saturated soils are important in various disciplines. In this research, a recently proposed concept for quantitative integration of dispersive seismic velocity and attenuation in soft soils, based on the underlying physics, is tested on a realistic synthetic shear‐wave (S‐wave) vertical seismic profiling (VSP) dataset. The effects of error in the determination of layer‐specific dispersive velocity and attenuation from VSP data without and with noise, as well as those of error in the used poroelasticity model, on the estimated values of porosity and permeability are investigated. A methodology involving extraction of layer‐specific intrinsic dispersion from VSP data and enhancement of robustness and reliability through use of multiple receivers within the thickness of a given layer, in combination with source stacking, is presented. For the assumed frequency band (50–140 Hz) for S‐wave data, stable values of both porosity and permeability can be obtained for all but a very low‐permeability clayey layer. The results show that if the model error is not large, then both porosity and permeability can be estimated quite accurately even when the data are rather noisy. However, when the model used is grossly inaccurate and there is large noise in the data and hence a large error in the estimated dispersion, then though the absolute error in porosity is still within 2–3%, the permeability can be off by an order of magnitude. In general, in this approach, if the poroelasticity model is so chosen that it explains reasonably well the observed dispersion, then the estimates of in situ porosity and permeability should both be quite accurate.
L’intégration professionnelle de médecins diplômés à l’étranger au Québec : un enjeu d’envergure en santé mondiale
Authors: Blain Marie-Jeanne , Suárez-Herrera José Carlos , Fortin Sylvie
Published: November 2012

Dans un contexte où les processus de production et de transfert des expertises techniques sont imbriqués dans une logique de marché à l’échelle mondiale, les systèmes de santé contemporains sont interpellés par de nombreux défis liés à la mobilité internationale des professionnels de la santé. Nous inspirant de diverses approches de l’anthropologie de la santé et de la sociologie des organisations, nous souhaitons examiner les dynamiques complexes qui se tissent entre des phénomènes globaux associés à la mondialisation des sociétés contemporaines et des enjeux locaux associés à la mobilité internationale des professionnels de la santé, plus spécifiquement, l’intégration de médecins diplômés à l’étranger sur le marché du travail québécois. Cet article vise à souligner la contribution d’une approche socio-anthropologique de la santé mondiale afin de mettre au jour l’interrelation entre des jeux de pouvoir locaux et des inégalités sociales à l’échelle mondiale.
Experimental Study of Free Stream Turbulent Effects on Dynamic Stall of Pitching Airfoil by Using Particle Image Velocimetry
Authors: Leu Tzong Shyng , Yu J.M. , Hu C.C. , Miau J.J. , Liang S.Y. , Li J.Y. , Cheng J.C. , Chen S.J.
Published: November 2012

The unsteady flow fields above NACA 0015 airfoil pitching with/without upstream turbulence generator are investigated in a water tunnel by mean of particle image velocimetry (PIV). The turbulence was generated by a square bar mesh situated at the inlet of the test section. The airfoil pitching waveform is performed under the condition calculated from the angle of attack histogram of a vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT). By using PIV, the instantaneous vortex structures above the pitching airfoil can be revealed. It allows us to study the free stream turbulence effects on dynamic stall over an airfoil at pitching waveform the same as VAWT. It is found that the free stream turbulence intensity has significant impacts on the dynamic stall process. The dynamic stall process is delayed to higher incidence angles on increasing the turbulence intensity.
Geometric Non-Linear Analysis of Composite Laminated Plates Using Higher Order Finite Strip Element
Authors: Zahari Rizal , Mustapha Faizal , Majid Dayang Laila Abd , Rafie Azmin Shakrine M. , Sultan Thariq Hameed
Published: November 2012

A finite strip method for geometric non-linear static analysis based on the tangential stiffness matrix has been developed using the new concept of polynomial finite strip elements, with Reissner (higher order shear deformable element) plate-bending theory for composite plates. A finite strip analysis programming package, which is capable of performing non-linear analysis for composite flat panels, has also been developed with Reissner plate bending element. Good agreement with the finite element results has been observed through various test cases, confirming the accuracy and reliability of the new developed finite strip method.
A Preliminary Study of Baseline Design Architecture Effects on Aircraft Redesign Risks
Authors: Romli Fairuz Izzuddin , Wiriadidjaja Surjatin , Rafie Azmin Shakrine Mohd
Published: November 2012

Aircraft redesign process normally does not start from scratch and requires a well-defined reference baseline design as the starting point for redesign changes. In general, the baseline design is often chosen based on the closeness of its existing performance capability to the driving requirement. This practice essentially presumes that such condition guarantees a minimum amount of required redesign changes, hence the least development risk. However, it is argued here in this study that such notion can be misleading because risk also depends on the type and the extent of the changes. Instead, it is believed that the existing baseline design architecture is an important element that will influence its suitability for the redesign task at hand. Through a sample aircraft redesign case study, the possible effects of existing design architecture on the redesign process is demonstrated and highlighted.
Design and Analysis of UAV Fuselage
Authors: Singhanart Thanyarat , Srimontok Chartchai , Pisitpan Natnapat , Chitimaworaphan Satid , Mongkhonchaiwiwat Wutthikorn
Published: November 2012

The objective of this paper is to design and analyze a UAV fuselage. The UAV considered in this paper is designed for short-term use and light-weight with mass carrying capacity of 2kg. Firstly, the shape is considered for aerodynamics. Then, the internal system installation, cargo positioning and fuselage structure are designed. Finite element analysis is used for the stress analysis under the landing condition of static model with 3.5g acceleration. The short-term use is specified to be 20 life cycles and the model is verified by the dynamic drop test. The result from finite element analysis shows that the maximum stress is less than the material’s strength with safety factor of 1.1. From the dynamic drop test, the fuselage can safely support the structure under the required life cycles. Therefore, it can be concluded that UAV fuselage can achieve the requirements.
Design and Test of a Vertical-Axis Wind Turbine with Pitch Control
Authors: Miau J.J. , Liang S.Y. , Yu R.M. , Hu C.C. , Leu T.S. , Cheng J.C. , Chen S.J.
Published: November 2012

The concept of pitch control has been implemented in the design of a small vertical-axis wind turbine. Benefits gained can be shown by the experimental and numerical results presented in this paper. As found, the method of variable pitch control outperforms the one of fixed pitch control. The present results show that the former can make remarkable improvement on the starting torque as well as the aerodynamic characteristics at low tip speed ratios.
Development of Simple-Structure Magnetic Membrane Actuator for Synthetic Jet Application
Authors: Pimpin Alongkorn , Intarasuksanti Kraisak , Wongweerayoot Eakayoot , Srituravanich Werayut
Published: November 2012

In this work, a magnetic membrane actuator that involves simple fabrication process and low cost is developed based on electroplating technique, and its dynamic performance is examined. The magnetic actuator consists of an element of soft ferromagnetic material embedded in PDMS circular membrane. It is driven by attracting the soft ferromagnetic element using external magnet that is attached on a shaft of electrical motor. When the shaft is rotated, the magnet will move back and forth towards the membrane. In this study, the nickel element as a soft ferromagnetic material is designed as a simple circular disk with four straight arms, and it is fabricated into three different thicknesses, i.e. 49±3, 70±7 and 100±6 μm, while PDMS thickness is fixed at 280±33 µm. The dynamic performances of 2-cm membrane actuators are examined using a capacitive sensor in the actuating frequency range of 40-240 Hz. The experimental results show that there are two motion patterns, i.e. small and strong oscillations, where the transition frequency is approximately at 100 Hz. In addition, with the increment of nickel element’s thickness, gain and peak frequency, where gain peaks occur, increase while peak-to-peak amplitude decreases.
Load Cell Application in Rocket Thrust Measurement System
Authors: Abdullah Nor Hafizah , Wahida Ku Chik Tengku Farah , Zaraini Fairul  Azmin , Ammar Ahmad
Published: November 2012

A load cell is an important component in measuring thrust generated by rocket in rocket technology research and development. It aims to test the rocket thrust in achieving the targeted objectives of the project. A load cell is a transducer that is used to convert a force into electrical signal and it usually consists of four strain gauges assembled in Wheatstone bridge configuration. The strain gauge converts the deformation (strain) to electrical signals. This conversion occurs in two stages. First, the strain gauges on the load cell will detect the deformation of load cell structure (tension or compression) and second, the strain gauge will convert the changes in the load cell in terms of voltage readings. Before the load cell can be used as the thrust sensor in rocket testing, it must undergo a calibration process to determine the relation between Load (kg) and Voltage (V). LabVIEW is used as a platform for data logging interface which is connected to the National Instrument hardware. National Instrument hardware acts as a signal conditioning which allow the voltage readings acquired by load cell to be collected and analyzed by LabVIEW. Each load cell has its own equation that links between force and voltage. The equation is used as a reference to convert the voltage reading to thrust.
Application of Airborne LiDAR-Derived Parameters and Probabilistic-Based Frequency Ratio Model in Landslide Susceptibility Mapping
Authors: Pradhan Biswajeet , Latif Zulkiflee Abd. , Aman Siti Nur Afiqah
Published: November 2012

The escalating number of occurrences of natural hazards such as landslides has raised a great interest among the geoscientists. Due to the extremely high number of point’s returns, airborne LiDAR permits the formation of more accurate DEM compared to other space borne and airborne remote sensing techniques. This study aims to assess the capability of LiDAR derived parameters in landslide susceptibility mapping. Due to frequent occurrence of landslides, Ulu Klang in Selangor state in Malaysia has been considered as application site. A high resolution of airborne LiDAR DEM was constructed to produce topographic attributes such as slope, curvature and aspect. These data were utilized to derive secondary deliverables of landslide parameters such as topographic wetness index (TWI), surface area ratio (SAR) and stream power index (SPI). A probabilistic based frequency ratio model was applied to establish the spatial relationship between the landslide locations and each landslide related factors. Subsequently, factor ratings were summed up to yield Landslide Susceptibility Index (LSI) and finally a landslide susceptibility map was prepared. To test the model performance, receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve was carried out together with area under curve (AUC) analysis. The produced landslide susceptibility map demonstrated that high resolution airborne LiDAR data has huge potential in landslide susceptibility mapping.
S.H.E.E.P. for Sleeping in Zero-G
Authors: Khamdevi Muhammar , Bachtiar Firmansyah
Published: November 2012

What it is like to sleep in zero gravity? Is it ever occurred to you? Sleep is actually a physical and mental resting state in which a person becomes relatively inactive, unaware of the environment, and is partially detachment from the world. It is a challenge for architects to design in a very extreme environment, which has different gravity, radiation exposure to avoid, the absence of basic needs (water, oxygen, etc.), sense of orientation (where is the top and where is the bottom?) etc. The lack of ability for human to stand straight in zero gravity environment – fetal position – leads to the choosing of that position for designing sleeping compartment in space – mimicking a sleeping baby, which is, in fact, the healthiest sleeping position. This idea becomes our guideline in proposing the design of a sleeping compartment in zero gravity, particularly in space station. It gives potential advantage for reducing the payloads of habitat module; size and weight, which is a common problems in space travel; mainly for reducing fuel and cost. But on the other hand, the quality of a good sleep should be considered, which is the main aspect of this design. What is a feasible sleeping compartment design for optimizing those needs? This research uses a design exploration approach to solve the problems and to find a suitable solution. The end result from this activity is S.H.E.E.P; Safe Haven with Ergonomics and Effective Performance. This sleeping compartment design is a private space for crew to rest comfortably without any interference from the external environment. This compartment is also equipped with necessary tools.
Maintainability Prediction for Aircraft Mechanical Components Utilizing Aircraft Feedback Information
Authors: Wan Husain Wan Mohd Sufian
Published: November 2012

This paper attempts to utilise aircraft maintenance historical data and information for future aircraft design from the perspective of maintanability. Aircraft feedback information contains various types of information that could be used for future improvement rather than just the failure elements. The study shows that the aircraft maintenance related feedback information systems analyses were very useful for deciding maintainability effectiveness; these include planning, organising maintenance and design improvement. There is no doubt that historical data information has the ability to contribute with an important role in design activities. The results also show that maintainability is an importance measure that can be used as a guideline for managing efforts made for the improvement of aircraft components.
Loosening Monitoring of Bolted Joints Using Optical Fiber Bending Sensor for Aircraft Lug Assembly
Authors: Shin Hye Jin , Lee Jung Ryul , Park Chan Yik
Published: November 2012

Bolted joints of aircraft lug assembly play an important role in connecting the wing and fuselage of an aircraft structure. Generally, the bolted joints get loosened because they are frequently exposed to the dynamic loads induced when an aircraft is in service. For this reason, it is important to monitor the condition of the bolted joints to avoid any critical defect that will lead to any risk in human life. However, it is difficult to conduct the bolted joints’ loosening inspection by an operator. In past few decades, optical fiber based sensor has been widely used due to its advancement over a conventional piezoelectric (PZT) sensor, especially due to its small size and light weight. With regard to this, a loosening monitoring of bolted joints using optical fiber bending sensor for aircraft lug assembly is proposed in this paper. The lug assembly specimen, which consists of a stainless steel lug, CFRP/Nomex honeycomb sandwich panel, carbon-steel bolt, nut and washer, and the monitoring system, which consists of a single mode fiber with ten optical fiber bending sensor nodes and an Optical Time-domain Reflectometer (OTDR) were used to determine the bolt loosening at every 1 degree interval.
Assessment on Effects of Under-Relaxation Factors on 2D Incompressible Laminar Flow over a Backward-Facing Step (BFS)
Authors: Sinnasamy Yogeswaran , Yahaya Noor Arbiah , Basri Shahnor , Jaafar Abdul Aziz , Rafie Azmin Shakrine Mohd
Published: November 2012

In this paper, the effects of changing under-relaxation factors for different variables on the numerical solution of 2D incompressible laminar flow over a backward-facing step (BFS) are studied using PHOENICS commercial Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software. This is conducted by changing under-relaxation factors for velocities and pressure during the 2D simulation. Ten different batches of under-relaxation factor for pressure ranging from 0.1 to 1.0 were used while the values of under-relaxation factor for velocities were manipulated between 0.1 and 1.0. For each batch of the computation, the error percentage of pressure and velocities were obtained. Based on this work, it is found that the recommended values of under-relaxation factor for pressure to achieve lower error percentage are between 0.6 and 0.8. Based on findings of the study, the appropriate values of under-relaxation factor for pressure and velocities can be selected to achieve the levels of error percentage permitted for computational studies.
Comparative Study of Vortex Generator Orientation on Wing Surface Considering Delta Vortex Generators
Authors: Aftab Syed Mohammed Aminuddin , Murthy P. Srinivasa
Published: November 2012

Flow over the ONERA M6 wing with vortex generators using more accurate higher order numerical schemes is studied using computational methods. In this paper, the effect of delta vortex generator orientation on the wing and its implication on wing performance is computed more accurately using second order upwinding scheme. Turbulence modeling used is k-omega sst. It has been found that numerical results are comparable and close to the experiment. The analysis results show that the co-rotating clockwise position of vortex generators is more effective than co-rotating (anticlockwise) or counter rotating position. The vortex generators have been found to control the boundary layer separation and give improvement in lift at high angle of attack.
Numerical Investigation of Flow-Induced Vibration of a Cantilever Beam for a Piezoelectric Energy Harvester
Authors: Rasani Mohammad Rasidi , Tu Ji Yuan , Mohamed Nik Abdullah Nik
Published: November 2012

Flexible cantilever beams in channel flow loses its stability through a flutter mechanism at sufficiently high Reynolds number. This sustained transfer of flow work to cantilever beam oscillation could be extracted to generate electrical power, which may be utilized to power wireless sensors for structural health monitoring or supply additional power in unmanned or micro air vehicles. Such flexible beam system is known to exhibit some form of hysteresis, with super- and sub-critical velocities for onset of flutter, which may not be captured by current potential flow modeling. We present numerical simulation of a viscous, Navier-Stokes solver coupled to a cantilever beam, to capture this flutter velocity hysteresis. Numerical result under a linearly varying flow velocity shows an approximately 11% hysteresis, suggesting potential of present model for identifying more accurate boundaries of beam flutter. The prediction of cantilevered piezoelectric beam response under varying or unsteady flow velocities is necessary for reliable design of energy harvesting devices and warrants further experimental investigations.
Analysis of Strong Ground Motion Caused by Blasting Demolition of a 22-Story RC Building
Authors: Wang Yu Shi , Li Xiao Jun
Published: November 2012

The influence of vibration on surrounding structures is one of the most important factors considered during blasting demolition of high-rise buildings in metropolitan regions. In the controlled blasting demolition of a 22-story RC building in Kunming, several accelerograms on ground surface were observed. Based on analyses of vertical peak ground velocity which is normally used in blasting vibration evaluation, and horizontal spectral acceleration which is frequently used in earthquake engineering, the ground motion caused by building collapse was evaluated. The results indicated that the adoptive vibration decreasing measures had a good effect, and the slight damages of two nearby buildings could not be due to abnormal strong ground motion caused by collapse.