Documents published in 2015 : Scipedia

Textile wastewater biocoagulation by Caesalpinia spinosa extracts
A. Revelo, D. Proaño, C. Banchón

Enfoque UTE - Scientific Engineering Journal (2015). Vol. 6, (1), 42

Abstract
(Received: 2014/12/06 - Accepted: 2015/03/24)The textile industry in Ecuador is still a matter of concern because of the inappropriate disposal of their effluents into the local water supply. The present research was carried out in Pelileo (Tungurahua-Ecuador) where textile wastewaters are discharged into waterways. An environmentally friendly solution to treat highly contaminated organic textile wastewaters is herein evaluated: a remediation process of biocoagulation was performed using extracts from the Caesalpinia spinosa plant also known as guarango or tara. It was determined that using C. spinosa extracts to treat wastewater has the same statistical effect as when applying a chemical coagulant (polyaluminum chloride 15%). Activated zeolite adsorbed color residuals from treated water to obtain turbidity removal more than 90%. A mathematical model showed that turbidity removal between 50-90% can be obtained by applying 25-45 g/L of guarango extracts and zeolite per 700 mL of textile wastewater. The natural coagulation using C. spinosa extracts produced 85% less sludge than polyaluminum chloride, and removed high organic matter content in the wastewater (1050 mg/L) by 52%.
Abstract
(Received: 2014/12/06 - Accepted: 2015/03/24)The textile industry in Ecuador is still a matter of concern because of the inappropriate disposal of their effluents into the [...]
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An error estimator for real-time simulators based on model order reduction
I. Alfaro, D. Gonzalez, S. Zlotnik, P. Diez, E. Cueto, F. Chinesta

Adv. Model. and Simul. in Eng. Sci. (2015). Vol. 2 (1), pp. 1-30

Abstract
Model order reduction (MOR) is one of the most appealing choices for real-time simulation of non-linear solids. In this work a method is presented in which real time performance is achieved by means of the o-line solution of a (high dimensional) parametric problem that provides a sort of response surface or computational vademecum. This solution is then evaluated in real-time at feedback rates compatible with haptic devices, for instance (i.e., more than 1kHz). This high dimensional problem can be solved without the limitations imposed by the curse of dimensionality by employing Proper Generalized Decomposition (PGD) methods. Essentially, PGD assumes a separated representation for the essential eld of the problem. Here, an error estimator is proposed for this type of solutions that takes into account the non-linear character of the studied problems. This error estimator allows to compute the necessary number of modes employed to obtain an approximation to the solution within a prescribed error tolerance in a given quantity of interest.
Abstract
Model order reduction (MOR) is one of the most appealing choices for real-time simulation of non-linear solids. In this work a method is presented in which real time performance [...]
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Effect of the separated approximation of input data in the accuracy of the resulting PGD solution
S. Zlotnik, P. Diez, D. Gonzalez, E. Cueto, A. Huerta

Adv. Model. and Simul. in Eng. Sci. (2015). Vol. 2, art. 28

Abstract
The Proper Generalized Decomposition (PGD) requires separability of the input data (e.g. physical properties, source term, boundary conditions, initial state). In many cases the input data is not expressed in a separated form and it has to be replaced by some separable approximation. These approximations constitute a new error source that, in some cases, may dominate the standard ones (discretization, truncation…) and control the nal accuracy of the PGD solution. In this work the relation between errors in the separated input data and the errors induced in the PGD solution is discussed. Error estimators proposed for homogenized problems and oscillation terms are adapted to asses the behaviour of the PGD errors resulting from approximated input data. The PGD is stable with respect to error in the separated data, with no critical amplification of the perturbations. Interestingly, we identified a high sensitiveness of the resulting accuracy on the selection of the sampling grid used to compute the separated data. The separation has to be performed on the basis of values sampled at integration points: sampling at the nodes defining the functional interpolation results in an important loss of accuracy. For the case of a Poisson problem separated in the spatial coordinates (a complex diffusivity function requires a separable approximation), the final PGD error is linear with the truncation error of the separated data. This relation is used to estimate the number of terms required in the separated data, that has to be in good agreement with the truncation error accepted in the PGD truncation (tolerance for the stoping criteria in the enrichment procedure). A sensible choice or the prescribed accuracy of the PGD solution has to be kept within the limits set by the errors in the separated input data.
Abstract
The Proper Generalized Decomposition (PGD) requires separability of the input data (e.g. physical properties, source term, boundary conditions, initial state). In many cases [...]
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Real time parameter identification and solution reconstruction from experimental data using the Proper Generalized Decomposition
E. Nadal Soriano, F. Chinesta, P. Diez, F. Fuenmayor, F. Denia

Comput. Methods Appl. Mech. Engrg., (2015). (preprint) Vol. 296 (1), pp. 113-128

Abstract
Some industrial processes are modelled by parametric partial differential equations. Integrating computational modelling and data assimilation into the control process requires obtaining a solution of the numerical model at the characteristic frequency of the process (real-time). This paper introduces a computational strategy allowing to efficiently exploit measurements of those industrial processes, providing the solution of the model at the required frequency. This is particularly interesting in the framework of control algorithms that rely on a model involving a set of parameters. For instance, the curing process of a composite material is modelled as a thermo-mechanical problem whose corresponding parameters describe the thermal and mechanical behaviours. In this context, the information available (measurements) is used to update the parameters of the model and to produce new values of the control variables (data assimilation). The methodology presented here is devised to ensure the possibility of having a response in real-time of the problem and therefore the capability of integrating it in the control scheme. The Proper Generalized Decomposition is used to describe the solution in the multi-parametric space. The real-time data assimilation requires a further simplification of the solution representation that better fits the data (reconstructed solution) and it provides an implicit parameter identification. Moreover, the analysis of the assimilated data sensibility with respect to the points where the measurements are taken suggests a criterion to locate the sensors.
Abstract
Some industrial processes are modelled by parametric partial differential equations. Integrating computational modelling and data assimilation into the control process [...]
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An efficient and general approach for implementing thermodynamic phase equilibria information in geophysical and geodynamic studies
J. Alfonso, S. Zlotnik, P. Diez

Geochmistry, geophysics, geosystems (2015). (preprint) Vol. 16 (10), pp. 3767-3777

Abstract
We present a flexible, general, and efficient approach for implementing thermodynamic phase equilibria information (in the form of sets of physical parameters) into geophysical and geodynamic studies. The approach is based on Tensor Rank Decomposition methods, which transform the original multidimensional discrete information into a separated representation that contains significantly fewer terms, thus drastically reducing the amount of information to be stored in memory during a numerical simulation or geophysical inversion. Accordingly, the amount and resolution of the thermodynamic information that can be used in a simulation or inversion increases substantially. In addition, the method is independent of the actual software used to obtain the primary thermodynamic information, and therefore, it can be used in conjunction with any thermodynamic modeling program and/or database. Also, the errors associated with the decomposition procedure are readily controlled by the user, depending on her/his actual needs (e.g., preliminary runs versus full resolution runs). We illustrate the benefits, generality, and applicability of our approach with several examples of practical interest for both geodynamic modeling and geophysical inversion/modeling. Our results demonstrate that the proposed method is a competitive and attractive candidate for implementing thermodynamic constraints into a broad range of geophysical and geodynamic studies. MATLAB implementations of the method and examples are provided as supporting information and can be downloaded from the journal's website.
Abstract
We present a flexible, general, and efficient approach for implementing thermodynamic phase equilibria information (in the form of sets of physical parameters) into geophysical [...]
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Fast r-adaptivity for multiple queries of heterogeneous stochastic material fields
R. Cottereau, P. Diez

Computational Mechanics (2015). (preprint) Vol. 56 (4), pp. 601-612

Abstract
We present an r-adaptivity approach for boundary value problems with randomly fluctuating material parameters solved through the Monte Carlo or stochastic collocation methods. This approach tailors a specific mesh for each sample of the problem. It only requires the computation of the solution of a single deterministic problem with the same geometry and the average parameter, whose numerical cost becomes marginal for large number of samples. Starting from the mesh used to solve that deterministic problem, the nodes are moved depending on the particular sample of mechanical parameter field. The reduction in the error is small for each sample but sums up to reduce the overall bias on the statistics estimated through the Monte Carlo scheme. Several numerical examples in 2D are presented.
Abstract
We present an r-adaptivity approach for boundary value problems with randomly fluctuating material parameters solved through the Monte Carlo or stochastic collocation [...]
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Proper generalized decomposition of a geometrically parametrized heat problem with geophysical applications
S. Zlotnik, P. Diez, D. Modesto, A. Huerta

Int. J. Numer. Meth. Engng. (2015). (preprint) Vol. 103 (10), pp. 737-758

Abstract
The solution of a steady thermal multiphase problem is assumed to be dependent on a set of parameters describing the geometry of the domain, the internal interfaces and the material properties. These parameters are considered as new independent variables. The problem is therefore stated in a multidimensional setup. The proper generalized decomposition (PGD) provides an approximation scheme especially well suited to preclude dramatically increasing the computational complexity with the number of dimensions. The PGD strategy is reviewed for the standard case dealing only with material parameters. Then, the ideas presented in [Ammar et al., “Parametric solutions involving geometry: A step towards efficient shape optimization.” Comput. Methods Appl. Mech. Eng., 2014; 268:178–193] to deal with parameters describing the domain geometry are adapted to a more general case including parametrization of the location of internal interfaces. Finally, the formulation is extended to combine the two types of parameters. The proposed strategy is used to solve a problem in applied geophysics studying the temperature field in a cross section of the Earth crust subsurface. The resulting problem is in a 10‐dimensional space, but the PGD solution provides a fairly accurate approximation (error ≤1%) using less that 150 terms in the PGD expansion.
Abstract
The solution of a steady thermal multiphase problem is assumed to be dependent on a set of parameters describing the geometry of the domain, the internal interfaces and the [...]
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A recovery-explicit error estimator in energy norm for linear elasticity
E. Nadal Soriano, P. Diez, J. Ródenas, M. Tur, F. Fuenmayor

Comput. Methods Appl. Mech. Engrg., (2015). (preprint) Vol. 287, pp. 172-190

Abstract
Significant research effort has been devoted to produce one-sided error estimates for Finite Element Analyses, in particular to provide upper bounds of the actual error. Typically, this has been achieved using residual-type estimates. One of the most popular and simpler (in terms of implementation) techniques used in commercial codes is the recovery-based error estimator. This technique produces accurate estimations of the exact error but is not designed to naturally produce upper bounds of the error in energy norm. Some attempts to remedy this situation provide bounds depending on unknown constants. Here, a new step towards obtaining error bounds from the recovery-based estimates is proposed. The idea is (1) to use a locally equilibrated recovery technique to obtain an accurate estimation of the exact error, (2) to add an explicit-type error bound of the lack of equilibrium of the recovered stresses in order to guarantee a bound of the actual error and (3) to efficiently and accurately evaluate the constants appearing in the bounding expressions, thus providing asymptotic bounds. The numerical tests with h-adaptive refinement process show that the bounding property holds even for coarse meshes, providing upper bounds in practical applications.
Abstract
Significant research effort has been devoted to produce one-sided error estimates for Finite Element Analyses, in particular to provide upper bounds of the [...]
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Two-fluid flow problem for viscoelastic fluids using the level set method and pressure enriched shape functions
E. Castillo, J. Baiges, R. Codina

Journal of Non-Newtonian Fluid Mechanics (2015). Vol. 225, pp. 37-53

Abstract
The numerical simulation of complex flows has been a subject of intense research in the last years with important industrial applications in many fields. In this paper we present a finite element method to solve the two immiscible fluid flow problem using the level set method. When the interface between both fluids cuts an element, the discontinuity in the material properties leads to discontinuities in the gradients of the unknowns which cannot be captured using a standard finite element interpolation. The method presented in this work features a local enrichment for the pressure unknowns which allows one to capture pressure gradient discontinuities in fluids presenting different density values. The method is tested in two problems: the first example consists in a sloshing case that involves the interaction of a Giesekus and a Newtonian fluid. This example shows that the enriched pressure functions permit the exact resolution of the hydrostatic rest state. The second example is the classical jet buckling problem used to validate our method. To permit the use of equal interpolation between the variables, we use a variational multiscale formulation proposed recently by Castillo and Codina in Comput. Methods Appl. Mech. Engrg. 279 (2014) 579–605, that has shown very good stability properties, permitting also the resolution of the jet buckling flow problem in the the range of Weissenberg number 0 < We < 100, using the Oldroyd-B model without any sign of numerical instability. Additional ingredients of the work are the inclusion of a discontinuity capturing technique for the constitutive equation and some comparisons between a monolithic resolution and a fractional step approach to solve the viscoelastic fluid flow problem from the point of view of computational requirements
Abstract
The numerical simulation of complex flows has been a subject of intense research in the last years with important industrial applications in many fields. In this paper we [...]
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On some time marching schemes for the stabilized finite element approximation of the mixed wave equation
H. Espinoza, R. Codina, S. Badia

Comput. Methods Appl. Mech. Engrg., (2015). Vol. 296, pp. 295-326

Abstract
In this paper we analyze time marching schemes for the wave equation in mixed form. The problem is discretized in space using stabilized finite elements. On the one hand, stability and convergence analyses of the fully discrete numerical schemes are presented using different time integration schemes and appropriate functional settings. On the other hand, we use Fourier techniques (also known as von Neumann analysis) in order to analyze stability, dispersion and dissipation. Numerical convergence tests are presented for various time integration schemes, polynomial interpolations (for the spatial discretization), stabilization methods, and variational forms. To analyze the behavior of the different schemes considered, a 1D wave propagation problem is solved.
Abstract
In this paper we analyze time marching schemes for the wave equation in mixed form. The problem is discretized in space using stabilized finite elements. On the one hand, [...]
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A three‐field stabilized finite element method for fluid‐structure interaction: elastic solid and rigid body limit
E. Hachem, S. Feghali, T. Coupez, R. Codina

Comput. Methods Appl. Mech. Engrg., (2015). Vol. 104 (7), pp. 566-584

Abstract
We propose a full Eulerian framework for solving fluid‐structure interaction (FSI) problems based on a unified formulation in which the FSIs are modelled by introducing an extra stress in the momentum equation. The obtained three‐field velocity, pressure and stress system is solved using a stabilized finite element method. The key feature of this unified formulation is the ability to describe different kind of interactions between the fluid and the structure, which can be either elastic or a perfect rigid body, without the need of treating this last case via penalization. The level‐set method combined with a dynamic anisotropic mesh adaptation is used to track the fluid‐solid interface.
Abstract
We propose a full Eulerian framework for solving fluid‐structure interaction (FSI) problems based on a unified formulation in which the FSIs are modelled by introducing [...]
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Weak imposition of essential boundary conditions in the finite element approximation of elliptic problems with non‐matching meshes
R. Codina, J. Baiges

Int. J. Numer. Meth. Engng. (2015). Vol. 104 (7), pp. 624-654

Abstract
In this work, we propose a method to prescribe essential boundary conditions in the finite element approximation of elliptic problems when the boundary of the computational domain does not match with the element boundaries. The problems considered are the Poisson problem, the Stokes problem, and the Darcy problem, the latter both in the primal and in the dual formulation. The formulation proposed is of variational type. The key idea is to start with the variational form that defines the problem and treat the boundary condition as a constraint. The particular feature is that the Lagrange multiplier is not defined on the boundary where the essential condition needs to be prescribed but is taken as a certain trace of a field defined in the computational domain, either in all of it or just in a region surrounding the boundary. When approximated numerically, this may allow one to condense the DOFs of the new field and end up with a problem posed only in terms of the original unknowns. The nature of the field used to weakly impose boundary conditions depends on the problem being treated. For the Poisson problem, it is a flux; for the Stokes problem, a stress; for the Darcy problem in primal form, a velocity field; and for the Darcy problem in dual form, it is a potential.
Abstract
In this work, we propose a method to prescribe essential boundary conditions in the finite element approximation of elliptic problems when the boundary of the computational [...]
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Numerical modeling of chlorine concentration in water storage tank
R. Codina, C. Muñoz, J. Baiges, J. Principe

Int. J. Numer. Meth. Fluids (2015). Vol. 79 (2), pp. 84-107

Abstract
In this paper, we describe a numerical model to simulate the evolution in time of the hydrodynamics of water storage tanks, with particular emphasis on the time evolution of chlorine concentration. The mathematical model contains several ingredients particularly designed for this problem, namely, a boundary condition to model falling jets on free surfaces, an arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian formulation to account for the motion of the free surface because of demand and supply of water, and a coupling of the hydrodynamics with a convection–diffusion–reaction equation modeling the time evolution of chlorine. From the numerical point of view, the equations resulting from the mathematical model are approximated using a finite element formulation, with linear continuous interpolations on tetrahedra for all the unknowns. To make it possible, and also to be able to deal with convection‐dominated flows, a stabilized formulation is used. In order to capture the sharp gradients present in the chlorine concentration, particularly near the injection zone, a discontinuity capturing technique is employed.
Abstract
In this paper, we describe a numerical model to simulate the evolution in time of the hydrodynamics of water storage tanks, with particular emphasis on the time evolution [...]
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Analysis of an unconditionally convergent stabilized finite element formulation for incompressible magnetohydrodynamics
S. Badia, R. Codina, R. Planas

Archives of Comp. Meths. Engng. (2015). Vol. 22 (4), pp. 621-636

Abstract
In this work, we analyze a recently proposed stabilized finite element formulation for the approximation of the resistive magnetohydrodynamics equations. The novelty of this formulation with respect to existing ones is the fact that it always converges to the physical solution, even when it is singular. We have performed a detailed stability and convergence analysis of the formulation in a simplified setting. From the convergence analysis, we infer that a particular type of meshes with a macro-element structure is needed, which can be easily obtained after a straight modification of any original mesh.
Abstract
In this work, we analyze a recently proposed stabilized finite element formulation for the approximation of the resistive magnetohydrodynamics equations. The novelty of this [...]
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Finite element dynamical subgrid-scale model for low Mach number flows with radiative heat transfer
M. Ávila, R. Codina, J. Principe

Int. J. Numer. Meth. Heat and Fluid Flows (2015). (Preprint) Vol. 25 (6), pp. 1361-1384

Abstract
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present a finite element approximation of the low Mach number equations coupled with radiative equations to account for radiative heat transfer. For high-temperature flows this coupling can have strong effects on the temperature and velocity fields. Design/methodology/approach – The basic numerical formulation has been proposed in previous works. It is based on the variational multiscale (VMS) concept in which the unknowns of the problem are divided into resolved and subgrid parts which are modeled to consider their effect into the former. The aim of the present paper is to extend this modeling to the case in which the low Mach number equations are coupled with radiation, also introducing the concept of subgrid scales for the radiation equations. Findings – As in the non-radiative case, an important improvement in the accuracy of the numerical scheme is observed when the nonlinear effects of the subgrid scales are taken into account. Besides it is possible to show global conservation of thermal energy. Originality/value – The original contribution of the work is the proposal of keeping the VMS splitting into the nonlinear coupling between the low Mach number and the radiative transport equations, its numerical evaluation and the description of its properties.
Abstract
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present a finite element approximation of the low Mach number equations coupled with radiative equations to account for radiative [...]
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First, second and third order fractional step methods for the three-field viscoelastic flow problem
E. Castillo, R. Codina

Journal of Computational Physics (2015). Vol. 296, pp. 113-137

Abstract
In this paper, three different fractional step methods are designed for the three-field viscoelastic flow problem, whose variables are velocity, pressure and elastic stress. The starting point of our methods is the same as for classical pressure segregation algorithms used in the Newtonian incompressible Navier–Stokes problem. These methods can be understood as an inexact LU block factorization of the original system matrix of the fully discrete problem and are designed at the pure algebraic level. The final schemes allow one to solve the problem in a fully decoupled form, where each equation (for velocity, pressure and elastic stress) is solved separately. The first order scheme is obtained from a straightforward segregation of pressure and elastic stress in the momentum equation, whereas the key point for the second order scheme is a first order extrapolation of these variables. The third order fractional step method relies on Yosida's scheme. Referring to the spatial discretization, either the Galerkin method or a stabilized finite element formulation can be used. We describe the fractional step methods first assuming the former, and then we explain the modifications introduced by the stabilized formulation we employ and that has been proposed in a previous work. This discretization in space shows very good stability, permitting in particular the use of equal interpolation for all variables.
Abstract
In this paper, three different fractional step methods are designed for the three-field viscoelastic flow problem, whose variables are velocity, pressure and [...]
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Assessment of variational multiscale models for the large eddy simulation of turbulent incompressible flows
O. Colomés, S. Badia, R. Codina, J. Principe

Comput. Methods Appl. Mech. Engrg., (2015). Vol. 285, pp. 32-63

Abstract
In this work we study the performance of some variational multiscale models (VMS) in the large eddy simulation (LES) of turbulent flows. We consider VMS models obtained by different subgrid scale approximations which include either static or dynamic subscales, linear or nonlinear multiscale splitting, and different choices of the subscale space. After a brief review of these models, we discuss some implementation aspects particularly relevant to the simulation of turbulent flows, namely the use of a skew symmetric form of the convective term and the computation of projections when orthogonal subscales are used. We analyze the energy conservation (and numerical dissipation) of the alternative VMS formulations, which is numerically evaluated. In the numerical study, we have considered three well known problems: the decay of homogeneous isotropic turbulence, the Taylor–Green vortex problem and the turbulent flow in a channel. We compare the results obtained using different VMS models, paying special attention to the effect of using orthogonal subscale spaces. The VMS results are also compared against classical LES scheme based on filtering and the dynamic Smagorinsky closure. Altogether, our results show the tremendous potential of VMS for the numerical simulation of turbulence. Further, we study the sensitivity of VMS to the algorithmic constants and analyze the behavior in the small time step limit. We have also carried out a computational cost comparison of the different formulations. Out of these experiments, we can state that the numerical results obtained with the different VMS formulations (as far as they converge) are quite similar. However, some choices are prone to instabilities and the results obtained in terms of computational cost are certainly different. The dynamic orthogonal subscales model turns out to be best in terms of efficiency and robustness.
Abstract
In this work we study the performance of some variational multiscale models (VMS) in the large eddy simulation (LES) of turbulent flows. We consider VMS models obtained by [...]
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Variational MultiScale based dissipation models for the estimation of Atmospheric Seeing
J. Baiges, R. Codina

Computers and Fluids (2015). Vol. 107, pp. 141-154

Abstract
In this work we present a numerical model for the estimation of atmospheric seeing in observation sites. The particularity of the method is that it is based on a Variational Multiscale turbulence model, its main feature being that the numerical mechanisms which are used to deal with stability issues (convection and the inf–sup condition for incompressible flows) do also take care of the modeling of turbulence. Based on this turbulence model, we develop the expressions for the viscous and thermal dissipations, ∊∊num and χnum, which are later used for evaluating the constant of structure of the refraction index Cn2 following the classical model developed by Tatarski. Numerical examples show the behavior of the proposed numerical scheme when applied to turbulent flow practical cases, which include a convective boundary layer, the flow inside a transfer optics room, and a telescope enclosure.
Abstract
In this work we present a numerical model for the estimation of atmospheric seeing in observation sites. The particularity of the method is that it is based on a Variational [...]
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A direct elimination algorithm for quasi-static and dynamic contact problems
D. Di Capua, C. Agelet de Saracibar

Finite Elements in Analysis and Design (2015). (preprint) Vol. 93 (1), pp. 107-125

Abstract
This paper deals with the computational modeling and numerical simulation of contact problems at finite deformations using the finite element method. Quasi-static and dynamic problems are considered and two particular frictional conditions, full stick friction and frictionless cases, are addressed. Lagrange multipliers and regularized formulations of the contact problem, such as penalty or augmented Lagrangian methods, are avoided and a new direct elimination method is proposed. Conserving algorithms are also introduced for the proposed formulation for dynamic contact problems. An assessment of the performance of the resulting formulation is shown in a number of selected benchmark tests and numerical examples, including both quasi-static and dynamic contact problems under full stick friction and frictionless contact conditions. Conservation of key discrete properties exhibited by the time stepping algorithm used for dynamic contact problems is also shown in an example
Abstract
This paper deals with the computational modeling and numerical simulation of contact problems at finite deformations using the finite element method. Quasi-static and dynamic [...]
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An empirical comparison of machine learning techniques for dam behaviour modelling
F. Salazar, M. Toledo, R. Morán Moya, E. Oñate

Structural Safety (2015). Vol 56, pp. 9-17

Abstract
Predictive models are essential in dam safety assessment. Both deterministic and statistical models applied in the day-to-day practice have demonstrated to be useful, although they show relevant limitations at the same time. On another note, powerful learning algorithms have been developed in the field of machine learning (ML), which have been applied to solve practical problems. The work aims at testing the prediction capability of some state-of-the-art algorithms to model dam behaviour, in terms of displacements and leakage. Models based on random forests (RF), boosted regression trees (BRT), neural networks (NN), support vector machines (SVM) and multivariate adaptive regression splines (MARS) are fitted to predict 14 target variables. Prediction accuracy is compared with the conventional statistical model, which shows poorer performance on average. BRT models stand out as the most accurate overall, followed by NN and RF. It was also verified that the model fit can be improved by removing the records of the first years of dam functioning from the training set.
Abstract
Predictive models are essential in dam safety assessment. Both deterministic and statistical models applied in the day-to-day practice have demonstrated to be useful, although [...]
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Numerical and Experimental Study of Overtopping and Failure of Rockfill Dams
A. LARESE, R. Rossi, E. Oñate, M. Toledo, R. Morán Moya, H. Campos

International Journal of Geomechanics (2015). Vol. 15 (4), pp. 04014060-1 (published online)

Abstract
This paper aims to present and validate a numerical technique for the simulation of the overtopping and onset of failure in rockfill dams caused by mass sliding. This goal is achieved by coupling a fluid dynamic model for the simulation of the free surface and through-flow problems together with a numerical technique for the calculation of the rockfill response and deformation. Both the flow within the dam body and in its surroundings are taken into account. An extensive validation of the resulting computational method is performed by solving several failure problems on physical models of rockfill dams for which experimental results have been obtained by the authors.
Abstract
This paper aims to present and validate a numerical technique for the simulation of the overtopping and onset of failure in rockfill dams caused by mass sliding. This goal [...]
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Two-noded zigzag beam element accounting for shear effects based on an extended Euler Bernoulli theory
D. Di Capua, E. Oñate

Composite Structures (2015). Vol. 132, pp 1192-1205

Abstract
We present a new 2-noded beam element based on the refined zigzag theory and the classical Euler–Bernoulli beam theory for the static analysis of composite laminate and sandwich beams. The proposed element is able to take into account distortion effects due to shear elastic strains and can predict delamination. The element has four degrees of freedom per node. A C1 cubic Hermite interpolation is used for the vertical deflection while a C0 linear interpolation is employed for the other kinematics variables. The stiffness matrix and the load vector are calculated in explicit form using exact integration. The element is free from shear locking as confirmed with numerical tests on a wide range of the slenderness ratios. Numerical results show the ability of the EEBZ2 element to reproduce accurately the vertical deflection along the beam length and complex zigzag distributions of the axial displacement and the stresses across the thickness. Delamination effects are modeled by incorporating of an additional zigzag function corresponding to the kinematics of a zero thickness layer where delamination occurs. An example showing the capability of the new EEBZ2 element for accurately reproducing delamination effects is presented.
Abstract
We present a new 2-noded beam element based on the refined zigzag theory and the classical Euler–Bernoulli beam theory for the static analysis of composite laminate [...]
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Finite element modeling of free surface flow in variable porosity media
A. LARESE, R. Rossi, E. Oñate

Archives of Comp. Meths. Engng. (2015). Vol. 22 (4), pp. 637-653

Abstract
The aim of the present work is to present an overview of some numerical procedures for the simulation of free surface flows within a porous structure. A particular algorithm developed by the authors for solving this type of problems is presented. A modified form of the classical Navier–Stokes equations is proposed, with the principal aim of simulating in a unified way the seepage flow inside rockfill-like porous material and the free surface flow in the clear fluid region. The problem is solved using a semi-explicit stabilized fractional step algorithm where velocity is calculated using a 4th order Runge–Kutta scheme. The numerical formulation is developed in an Eulerian framework using a level set technique to track the evolution of the free surface. An edge-based data structure is employed to allow an easy OpenMP parallelization of the resulting finite element code. The numerical model is validated against laboratory experiments on small scale rockfill dams and is compared with other existing methods for solving similar problems.
Abstract
The aim of the present work is to present an overview of some numerical procedures for the simulation of free surface flows within a porous structure. A particular algorithm [...]
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Agenda
-. EPI

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (6), 102
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Innovación, eficiencia y tecnología en OCLC: el reto de los nuevos usuarios
R. Eíto-Brun

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (6), 101

Abstract
Informe
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Scholarly publishers indicators: Prestige, specialization and review systems of scholarly book publishers
E. Giménez-Toledo, J. Mañana-Rodríguez, C. Tejada-Artigas

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (6), 100

Abstract
This work presents the updated version of the public information system SPI (Scholarly Publishers’ Indicators), developed by ÍLIA (research group on scholarly books), which belongs to the Spanish National Research Council. SPI contains three types of indicators about book publishers: prestige according to expert opinions; thematic specialization according to Dilve (information on Spanish books for sale) classification; and manuscript selection procedures according to each publisher’s answers to a survey. SPI Expanded is also described as an information system which provides information about each scholarly publisher’s indexation in four international information systems. The methodological specifications for the design of SPI Expanded in each of the dimensions are presented. Finally, the functionalities and current use as a reference in the assessment process of scholarly publishers’ output are detailed.
Abstract
This work presents the updated version of the public information system SPI (Scholarly Publishers’ Indicators), developed by ÍLIA (research group on scholarly books), which [...]
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Scholarly publishers’ indicators: Prestige, specialization, and review systems of scholarly book publishers
E. Giménez-Toledo, J. Mañana-Rodríguez, C. Tejada-Artigas

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (6), 99

Abstract
This work presents the updated version of the public information system SPI (Scholarly Publishers’ Indicators), developed by ÍLIA (research group on scholarly books), which belongs to the Spanish National Research Council. SPI contains three types of indicators about book publishers: prestige according to expert opinions; thematic specialization according to Dilve (information on Spanish books for sale) classification; and manuscript selection procedures according to each publisher’s answers to a survey. SPI Expanded is also described as an information system which provides information about each scholarly publisher’s indexation in four international information systems. The methodological specifications for the design of SPI Expanded in each of the dimensions are presented. Finally, the functionalities and current use as a reference in the assessment process of scholarly publishers’ output are detailed.
Abstract
This work presents the updated version of the public information system SPI (Scholarly Publishers’ Indicators), developed by ÍLIA (research group on scholarly books), which [...]
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Data journals: emergence of new journals specializing in data
A. García-García, A. López-Borrull, F. Peset

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (6), 98

Abstract
Two major facts: the huge increase in the amount of data that scientists produce, and the pressure for transparency and economic efficiency of public budgets, have caused that a good data management has become much more important. A compilation and an analysis of some data journals –journals specializing in data- is presented. Their origins, evolution and characteristics are described. Finally, a reflection is done on the role that data journals can play in the scientific communication ecosystem.
Abstract
Two major facts: the huge increase in the amount of data that scientists produce, and the pressure for transparency and economic efficiency of public budgets, have caused [...]
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Information reuse in smart cities' ecosystems
A. Abella, M. Ortiz-de-Urbina-Criado, C. De-Pablos-Heredero

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (6), 97

Abstract
Smart cities are service providers as well as sources of public data. The reuse of cities’ data through the application of technology enables the creation of innovative services for citizens. Apps, developed by reusing information, are considered a key indicator for the creation of services. This paper explores the main characteristics of these apps and their relationship to services. The analysis performed in the main smart cities in Europe shows the importance of timely information release and the geo-location of published data. Transport and tourism seem to be the most popular areas of application. This article builds on the area of research in previous studies and includes additional information of apps’ characteristics to meet service needs.
Abstract
Smart cities are service providers as well as sources of public data. The reuse of cities’ data through the application of technology enables the creation of innovative [...]
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Volunteer participation in citizen science projects
N. Ferran-Ferrer

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (6), 96

Abstract
The purpose of this research is to assess the current state of citizen science projects and reveal the role of volunteers in the research process. This is achieved by performing a literature review and content analysis of three international and one state-owned citizen science platforms (Wikipedia, SciStarter, CitSci and Precipita) that contain more than 800 research projects. Projects have been analyzed according to four categories: the academic disciplines, the way the project is designed, the phases of the research in which volunteers participate, and the tasks they perform. The results show that projects in the arts, humanities, and social sciences disciplines are almost non-existent. In addition, in the field of natural and physical sciences, projects are fostered with a top-down approach and volunteers participate primarily in the data collection phase in order to obtain a large volume of data, thereby receiving more financing from the European Union.
Abstract
The purpose of this research is to assess the current state of citizen science projects and reveal the role of volunteers in the research process. This is achieved by performing [...]
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The new media business concept led by Netflix: a study of the model and its projection into the Spanish market
J. Izquierdo-Castillo

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (6), 95

Abstract
New actors who link their activity to content distribution are leading the business of online media content. These actors adapt their operations to the demands of converging media context, and they propose business models oriented to user satisfaction. Among them, Netflix is notably highlighted for leadership in its home market, the United States, and in its international expansion. This paper presents in detail the Netflix business model with a case study that focuses on three key areas: the catalogue and monetization formula, policy relationships with key audiences (users, content providers and internet providers) and its internationalization strategy. Based on the results, the projection of this model in the Spanish media market can begin to be discussed.
Abstract
New actors who link their activity to content distribution are leading the business of online media content. These actors adapt their operations to the demands of converging [...]
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Review of social practices and ways of exercising the policy through new media
I. Cordero-Sánchez, J. Alberich-Pascual

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (6), 94

Abstract
This article reviews the elements that have facilitated greater communicative autonomy for significant contemporary social movements and organizations through new media. Taking as reference the historical diagnosis of Hans Magnus Enzensberger (1970) for an emancipatory use of social media, we analyse the process of emergence and development of a new information paradigm in the global activity of contemporary social movements. Finally, we offer a selection of common elements implemented by these movements for the promotion of open and emancipatory management of new media as a tool for social empowerment.
Abstract
This article reviews the elements that have facilitated greater communicative autonomy for significant contemporary social movements and organizations through new media. Taking [...]
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Letters, sources of knowledge for research on libraries, old books and reading
N. Bas-Martín

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (6), 93

Abstract
Letters are one of the main sources of information for researchers on old books, especially from the 18th century, when correspondence was the main vehicle of communication in the Europe of the Enlightenment. From them we can rebuild the world’s libraries, the circulation of books and ideas, and the world of reading from a more personal perspective. Through some examples, one can explore the possibilities that epistolary relationships offer future researchers on the history of the book.
Abstract
Letters are one of the main sources of information for researchers on old books, especially from the 18th century, when correspondence was the main vehicle of communication [...]
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Public online epitexts as a tool to book promotion
G. Lluch, R. Tabernero-Sala, V. Calvo-Valios

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (6), 92

Abstract
Genette introduced and defined the concept of paratext in 1987, and applied studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of this methodological approach. However, reviewing the scientific literature shows a lack of studies of a paratext that is essential to the promotion of reading on social networks: public virtual epitext. The first aim of this paper is to review and analyze the scientific literature about virtual epitext. Next, we propose lines of research to advance the promotion of books and reading on social networks. Finally, we show the need to broaden the virtual epitext concept in order to analyze internet-related changes in the dissemination of books and reading.
Abstract
Genette introduced and defined the concept of paratext in 1987, and applied studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of this methodological approach. However, reviewing [...]
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Evolutionary trends of digital content in mobile applications
J. Aguado, I. Martínez, L. Cañete-Sanz

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (6), 91

Abstract
In recent years, mobile applications have come to constitute an ecosystem of their own, becoming an important driver for innovation. The consolidation of mobile applications as the prevalent interface for content access has consequences for the production, distribution and consumption of content, merging the functional spheres of digital content: performance, creation, management and communication. This paper proposes a functional typology of mobile content applications, along with an evolutionary analysis model. It analyses the functional evolution of 153 versions of 12 relevant applications developed during two years (March 2013 through March 2015). Though statistical representativeness is limited, the sample analysis allowed validation of the model. The results point to intervention capacity and communication capacity over content as important value-added drivers in mobile content applications, although not in homogeneous terms for all the kinds of mobile applications analysed.
Abstract
In recent years, mobile applications have come to constitute an ecosystem of their own, becoming an important driver for innovation. The consolidation of mobile applications [...]
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Innovative services in public libraries in Colombia. Results of a Delphi study
A. Soto, S. Suescún

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (6), 90

Abstract
A Delphi study was performed to identify trends about innovative services in Colombian public libraries. An expert panel participated in three rounds with on-line questionnaires. Four trends were found: stronger community relationships; coexistence of books, technology and users; spaces for creativity, communication, collaborative work and networking. The study concluded that innovation at a public library is the capability to adapt services within its context and constantly engage in the necessary reflection and action about the methods, results and impact of its services.
Abstract
A Delphi study was performed to identify trends about innovative services in Colombian public libraries. An expert panel participated in three rounds with on-line questionnaires. [...]
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Tratamiento de la información científica en las ediciones digitales de los periódicos españoles
L. López-Pérez, M. Olvera-Lobo

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (6), 89

Abstract
The treatment of scientific information is analysed in the digital edition of the most-read newspapers in Spain: El país, El mundo, ABC and 20 minutos in December 2012, 2013 and 2014. The subject of inquiry is the published news, of which the quantity has been determined, the sources identified, and each issue categorized by the area of science to which it refers. The data obtained leads to the conclusion that the online editions, rather than overcoming the disadvantages of homogenisation and selectivity, have accentuated them. Biology and biomedicine, along with astrophysics, are the most high-profile areas. Furthermore, they rely fundamentally on two types of source: high-impact journals and research centres, most of them international.
Abstract
The treatment of scientific information is analysed in the digital edition of the most-read newspapers in Spain: El país, El mundo, ABC and 20 minutos in December 2012, 2013 [...]
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Our seniors’ challenge to the new media: uses and opinions
M. Montaña, E. Estanyol, F. Lalueza

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (6), 88

Abstract
This research was aimed at determining the media use by the Spanish population over 61 years, their relation with the new technologies and their opinions. We interviewed 383 Spaniards as part of the 2013 World Internet Project (WIP). The sample was segmented into two categories: young olds (from 61-70 years), and middle-old olds (71 and over). The results have been compared to the Spanish general population to detect the most relevant specifities. It can be concluded that, although the assessment they made of traditional media is above average, the Spanish senior population shows considerable interest for internet and more than 60% of them check their email daily. Their use of internet, however, is eminently pragmatic, so they tend to not use its potential as a socialization media.
Abstract
This research was aimed at determining the media use by the Spanish population over 61 years, their relation with the new technologies and their opinions. We interviewed 383 [...]
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Exploring interaction patterns for use on the semantic web
A. Palacios, R. García, M. Oliva, T. Granollers

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (6), 87

Abstract
In recent years, multiple sets of interaction patterns have been proposed for use in the design and the development of website interfaces. The semantic web also has enhanced websites with semantic content. This paradigm shift allows the reexamination of usual end-user tasks, which, as semantic web end-user tasks, might remain the same, be completely changed, or give rise to the development of new tasks. We have defined a list of semantic web end-user tasks and built an inventory of most of the interaction patterns proposed for semantic web use. We then classified these patterns according to the semantic web end-user tasks where they can be used and analyzed how interaction patterns can improve the functionality of each of those semantic web end-user tasks.
Abstract
In recent years, multiple sets of interaction patterns have been proposed for use in the design and the development of website interfaces. The semantic web also has enhanced [...]
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Digital transition of teaching-learning resources at Spanish universities
B. Rodríguez-Bravo, A. Pacios, M. Vianello-Osti, M. Moro-Cabero, M. De-la-Mano-González

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (6), 86

Abstract
The objective of this study is to establish which document types are considered essential for learning at universities and, therefore, are recommended to students. Additionally, an analysis was conducted to determine if electronic resources are a part of the recommended reading lists for the various subjects across the curriculum and what exactly their weight is in relation to other document types. The current syllabi for the 2014-2015 academic year were accessed for each subject in ten majors offered at three Spanish universities: University Carlos III of Madrid, University of León, and University of Salamanca. The primary finding is the lack of homogeneity in the number of references by university and major which is due to the disparity observed as far as the number of references per subject. Books are the resources most frequently suggested in all of the curricula analyzed. The scarce use in course syllabi of journal articles and, particularly, conference papers, is significant. Links to institutional websites predominate, whereas the presence of electronic books is residual despite a proven inclination to prioritize recommendations for monographs and textbooks. The presence of electronic journals and electronic articles is also marginal. It is evident that traditional document types continue to be recommended despite the increase of electronic documents in academic libraries’ collections.
Abstract
The objective of this study is to establish which document types are considered essential for learning at universities and, therefore, are recommended to students. Additionally, [...]
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Digital transition of teaching learning resources at Spanish universities
B. Rodríguez-Bravo, A. Pacios, M. Vianello-Osti, M. Moro-Cabero, M. De-la-Mano-González

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (6), 85

Abstract
The objective of this study is to establish which document types are considered essential for learning at universities and, therefore, are recommended to students. Additionally, an analysis was conducted to determine if electronic resources are a part of the recommended reading lists for the various subjects across the curriculum and what exactly their weight is in relation to other document types. The current syllabi for the 2014-2015 academic year were accessed for each subject in ten majors offered at three Spanish universities: University Carlos III of Madrid, University of León, and University of Salamanca. The primary finding is the lack of homogeneity in the number of references by university and major which is due to the disparity observed as far as the number of references per subject. Books are the resources most frequently suggested in all of the curricula analyzed. The scarce use in course syllabi of journal articles and, particularly, conference papers, is significant. Links to institutional websites predominate, whereas the presence of electronic books is residual despite a proven inclination to prioritize recommendations for monographs and textbooks. The presence of electronic journals and electronic articles is also marginal. It is evident that traditional document types continue to be recommended despite the increase of electronic documents in academic libraries’ collections.
Abstract
The objective of this study is to establish which document types are considered essential for learning at universities and, therefore, are recommended to students. Additionally, [...]
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Web indicators for research evaluation. Part 3: books and non standard outputs
K. Kousha, M. Thelwall

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (6), 84

Abstract
This literature review describes web indicators for the impact of books, software, datasets, videos and other non-standard academic outputs. Although journal articles dominate academic research in the health and natural sciences, other types of outputs can make equally valuable contributions to scholarship and are more common in other fields. It is not always possible to get useful citation-based impact indicators for these due to their absence from, or incomplete coverage in, traditional citation indexes. In this context, the web is particularly valuable as a potential source of impact indicators for non-standard academic outputs. The main focus in this review is on books because of the much greater amount of relevant research for them and because they are regarded as particularly valuable in the arts and humanities and in some areas of the social sciences.
Abstract
This literature review describes web indicators for the impact of books, software, datasets, videos and other non-standard academic outputs. Although journal articles dominate [...]
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Reading and university: Study of reading habits of Spanish and Portuguese university students
S. Yubero, E. Larrañaga

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (6), 83

Abstract
The process of adaptation to the Bologna process undergone by Spanish universities only provides for reading skill as a transversal or cross-cutting competency of a basic instrumental nature within the framework of development of generic competencies. It is, however, essential to achieve said reading skill at university; this consists of the development and strengthening of voluntary reading behaviours, generating lifelong reading habits. Although it may seem surprising, the data obtained from the study of a significant sample of Spanish and Portuguese students reflect that a number of university students lack reading habits or do not read voluntarily. The data obtained reaffirm the fact that educational institutions and university libraries must offer resources and services aimed at promoting reading, with the goal of strengthening the reading skills of university students.
Abstract
The process of adaptation to the Bologna process undergone by Spanish universities only provides for reading skill as a transversal or cross-cutting competency of a basic [...]
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Review of national and international initiatives on books and book publishers assessment
E. Giménez-Toledo, J. Mañana-Rodríguez, C. Tejada-Artigas

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (6), 82

Abstract
This article presents various systems for assessing academic books and/or book publishers in several European countries and two in Latin America. It has been structured according to the methodologies used in each system: expert opinion, reviews, holdings in academic libraries, specialization, original selection procedures, citations and systems integrating different variables. The objective is to offer a panoramic view for evaluators, authors, librarians, and editors to use in decision making. Also included are conclusions about various assessment systems, their potential and the optimum conditions for their use in practice.
Abstract
This article presents various systems for assessing academic books and/or book publishers in several European countries and two in Latin America. It has been structured according [...]
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Review of national and international initiatives on books and book publishers assessment
E. Giménez-Toledo, J. Mañana-Rodríguez, C. Tejada-Artigas

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (6), 81

Abstract
This article presents various systems for assessing academic books and/or book publishers in several European countries and two in Latin America. It has been structured according to the methodologies used in each system: expert opinion, reviews, holdings in academic libraries, specialization, original selection procedures, citations, and systems integrating different variables. The objective is to offer a panoramic view for evaluators, authors, librarians, and editors to use in decision making. Also included are conclusions about various assessment systems, their potential, and the optimum conditions for their use in practice.
Abstract
This article presents various systems for assessing academic books and/or book publishers in several European countries and two in Latin America. It has been structured according [...]
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Book publication and distribution
J. Millán

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (6), 80

Abstract
The entire circuit of the book, both traditional and eBook, has moved into the digital realm. Metadata, recommendation algorithms, and programs to limit and control the reading take on a new importance. Powerful digital intermediaries now control most of the author-reader process.
Abstract
The entire circuit of the book, both traditional and eBook, has moved into the digital realm. Metadata, recommendation algorithms, and programs to limit and control the [...]
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Agenda
-. EPI

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (5), 79

Abstract
Congresos,
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Studies and analysis of reference management software: A literature review
J. Tramullas, A. Sánchez-Casabón, P. Garrido-Picazo

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (5), 78

Abstract
ResumenLos gestores de referencias son una herramienta clásica para el trabajo de investigación científica. Desde la década de 1980 han sido objeto de revisiones y evaluaciones en la bibliografía especializada. Este trabajo plantea una revisión sistemática de los trabajos publicados que evalúan gestores de referencias con un enfoque comparativo. El objetivo del mismo es identificar los tipos, modelos y criterios de evaluación que han adoptado los autores, para determinar si los métodos utilizados ofrecen el rigor metodológico adecuado, y si suponen una aportación al conocimiento sobre el tema objeto de estudio.
Abstract
ResumenLos gestores de referencias son una herramienta clásica para el trabajo de investigación científica. Desde la década de 1980 han sido objeto de revisiones y evaluaciones [...]
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Bibliometric data on mobile phones: description and characteristics of the UGRinvestiga app
D. Torres-Salinas, E. Jiménez-Contreras, C. Rodríguez-Domínguez

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (5), 77

Abstract
It is quite common in the library and information world to find mobile applications (apps) to query scientific journals, bibliographic databases or university libraries. However, there are no apps that offer bibliometric indicators about universities, researchers, etc. We describe the development and functionality of the pioneer bibliometric app UGRinvestiga, launched on January 2015, which offers rankings of researchers from the University of Granada based on citations collected from Google Scholar Profiles. Information on the technical features of the app, the data collection process, the indicators used, the current coverage of researchers and a description of its interface and functionalities are described. Finally we emphasize the great potential of mobile applications as a tool for representing and disseminating bibliometric data.
Abstract
It is quite common in the library and information world to find mobile applications (apps) to query scientific journals, bibliographic databases or university libraries. However, [...]
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Library roles in information literacy for postgraduate distance learning students at Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED)
A. Moreno-Pulido, R. Sánchez-Fernández

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (5), 76

Abstract
The library of the Spanish open university Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED) is involved in distance learning of information skills in formal postgraduate courses. This paper discusses action levels, structure, content, method, learning resources, tutoring, etc., and describes the student evaluation exercises. The formation of teams and the functions performed by embedded librarians is explained. Finally, the results of satisfaction surveys and the convenience to continue these training activities are discussed.
Abstract
The library of the Spanish open university Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED) is involved in distance learning of information skills in formal postgraduate [...]
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Research promotion and digital identity: the case of the Universidade da Coruña
V. Fernández-Marcial, L. González-Solar

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (5), 75

Abstract
The results of a study on the situation of digital identity of the research community of the University of A Coruña are presented. The universe has been established with the faculty members listed in the university’s research catalog, and their presence in Orcid, ResearcherID, Scopus Author, Google Scholar Citations, ResearchGate and Mendeley was examined. The results show that the presence should be increased, but compared with others found in the literature, it can be assessed as positive. The role that researchers, the university library and the university must assume in this issue is suggested.
Abstract
The results of a study on the situation of digital identity of the research community of the University of A Coruña are presented. The universe has been established with [...]
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From research to researchers. Adapting services at the Rector Gabriel Ferraté Library
M. Codina-Vila, R. Íñigo

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (5), 74

Abstract
Research services have traditionally been a priority of university libraries, particularly at universities with a research vocation. We are in a changing environment in which researchers often have temporary needs. Libraries find it difficult to provide adequate answers to phenomena such as open access to information, crisis in the journal subscription model, need of more processes to evaluate the work of researchers, internationalization, diversity of researcher profiles, etc.). As a result, library services extend the focus of their offerings, giving more support to researchers in their role as writers, and adapting to the priorities of the institution at all times. This article explores the responses of the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya- BarcelonaTech’s Rector Gabriel Ferraté Library to these new challenges.
Abstract
Research services have traditionally been a priority of university libraries, particularly at universities with a research vocation. We are in a changing environment in which [...]
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Presence of Spanish universities on scientific digital social networks: case of communication studies
C. González-Díaz, M. Iglesias-García, L. Codina

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (5), 73

Abstract
Scientific social networks are a new meeting place for researchers and a major instrument for the promotion of knowledge. Their use is increasing in the scientific community, as they are practical tools to disseminate research results and to share knowledge. This paper examines the presence of 77 Spanish universities in the two main scientific social networks (ResearchGate and Academia.edu). The results show that, despite the continuous development that those networks are having worldwide, the number of Spanish members in them is considered insufficient and in some universities is almost anecdotal. These results should be the starting point for an action program of the universities to increase the membership of their academic staff in those networks, as part of their mission of disseminating knowledge.
Abstract
Scientific social networks are a new meeting place for researchers and a major instrument for the promotion of knowledge. Their use is increasing in the scientific community, [...]
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The Finch Report and the open access to biomedical publications
K. Gherab-Martín

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (5), 72

Abstract
We analyse why the open access movement split into two paths, gold and green, and try to explain the reasons behind the choices between them that were made in the UK and USA. The analysis shows that lobbying in favor of the gold path had its origins in the publication policies of The New England journal of medicine: its director, Franz J. Ingelfinger, introduced the publication rule of not accepting manuscripts that previously had been circulating as pre-prints, known as the “Ingelfinger rule”.
Abstract
We analyse why the open access movement split into two paths, gold and green, and try to explain the reasons behind the choices between them that were made in the UK and USA. [...]
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Self-diagnosis and online health information seekers: the Chilean case
D. Halpern, M. Peña-y-Lillo, F. Goic, A. Reinoso-Aguiló, C. Figueroa-Zepeda, A. Troncoso-Leiva

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (5), 71

Abstract
The factors that affect users as they search for health information and conduct a self-diagnosis online among a nationally representative sample of Chileans with internet access were analysed. The results indicate that three groups of variables largely explain this phenomenon: 1) the experiences that users had when commenting to their doctors about what they found online; 2) individual-psychological aspects such as pre-existing medical conditions; and 3) technological factors such as confidence and efficacy regarding internet use. Our research showed that this is a growing trend: more than 90% of respondents said that during the last year they had searched for health information on the internet at least once, while 85% said they had revised their symptoms and self-diagnosed.
Abstract
The factors that affect users as they search for health information and conduct a self-diagnosis online among a nationally representative sample of Chileans with internet [...]
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Web indicators for research evaluation. Part 2: Social media metrics
M. Thelwall, K. Kousha

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (5), 70

Abstract
This literature review assesses indicators derived from social media sources, including both general and academic sites. Such indicators have been termed altmetrics, influmetrics, social media metrics, or a type of webometric, and have recently been commercialised by a number of companies and employed by some publishers and university administrators. The social media metrics analysed here derive mainly from Twitter, Facebook, Google+, F1000, Mendeley, ResearchGate, and Academia.edu. They have the apparent potential to deliver fast, free indicators of the wider societal impact of research, or of different types of academic impacts, complementing academic impact indicators from traditional citation indexes. Although it is unwise to employ them in formal evaluations with stakeholders, due to their susceptibility to gaming and lack of real evidence that they reflect wider research impacts, they are useful for formative evaluations and to investigate science itself. Mendeley reader counts are particularly promising.
Abstract
This literature review assesses indicators derived from social media sources, including both general and academic sites. Such indicators have been termed altmetrics, influmetrics, [...]
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Web indicators for research evaluation. Part 1: Citations and links to academic articles from the Web
M. Thelwall, K. Kousha

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (5), 69

Abstract
The extensive use of the web by many sectors of society has created the potential for new wider impact indicators. This article reviews research about Google Scholar and Google Patents, both of which can be used as sources of impact indicators for academic articles. It also briefly reviews methods to extract types of links and citations from the web as a whole, although the indicators that these generate are now probably too broad and too dominated by automatically generated websites, such as library and publisher catalogues, to be useful in practice. More valuable web-based indicators can be derived from specific types of web pages that cite academic research, such as online presentations, course syllabi, and science blogs. These provide evidence that is easier to understand and use and less likely to be affected by unwanted types of automatically generated content, although they are susceptible to gaming.
Abstract
The extensive use of the web by many sectors of society has created the potential for new wider impact indicators. This article reviews research about Google Scholar and Google [...]
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Analysis of production and scientific visibility of Ecuador in the Andean context (2000-2013)
P. Álvarez-Muñoz, M. Pérez-Montoro

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (5), 68

Abstract
A quantitative analysis of the scientific production of Ecuador in the Andean context is provided for 2000-2013, using data provided by the SCImago journal & country rank (SJR). We identified the indicators of absolute production and growth rate, and used three indicators to evaluate visibility: absolute citation, cites per document and international collaboration. We concluded that 1) Ecuador enjoyed positive growth in scientific production during the study period, except in 2010 and 2011; 2) it rebounded at the end of the period analyzed; 3) half of the production was in the areas of agriculture and medicine, which therefore appeared as the main areas of national scientific development; and 4) the most productive area, agriculture, was also the most cited.
Abstract
A quantitative analysis of the scientific production of Ecuador in the Andean context is provided for 2000-2013, using data provided by the SCImago journal & country rank [...]
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Evaluation of scientific production in Mexicna state public universities (2007-2011) using principal component analysises
J. Tarango, P. Hernández-Gutiérrez, D. Vázquez-Guzmán

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (5), 67

Abstract
AbstractThis article focuses on the application of the principal component analysis (PCA) method to evaluate the competitiveness of scientific production in Mexican universities, based on the identification and classification of a set of indicators, grouped into seven dimensions and 18 criteria. Specifically, the method was performed in the educational institutions included in the category of state public universities (33 in total), over a period of five years (2007-2011), and ultimately identified only seven criteria as principal components, resulting in a scale of positions that indicate the index of relative potential (IPR in Spanish). Thus, the levels of opportunity for each university in relation to their group are defined, and the university that showed the highest competitiveness is identified and it in turn becomes a quality parameter.
Abstract
AbstractThis article focuses on the application of the principal component analysis (PCA) method to evaluate the competitiveness of scientific production in Mexican universities, [...]
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Evaluation of scientific production in Mexican state public universities (2007-2011) using principal component analysis
J. Tarango, P. Hernández-Gutiérrez, D. Vázquez-Guzmán

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (5), 66

Abstract
This article focuses on the application of the principal component analysis (PCA) method to evaluate the competitiveness of scientific production in Mexican universities, based on the identification and classification of a set of indicators, grouped into seven dimensions and 18 criteria. Specifically, the method was performed in the educational institutions included in the category of state public universities (33 in total), over a period of five years (2007-2011), and ultimately identified only seven criteria as principal components, resulting in a scale of positions that indicate the index of relative potential (IPR in Spanish). Thus, the levels of opportunity for each university in relation to their group are defined, and the university that showed the highest competitiveness is identified and it in turn becomes a quality parameter.
Abstract
This article focuses on the application of the principal component analysis (PCA) method to evaluate the competitiveness of scientific production in Mexican universities, [...]
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Ranking institutions within a university based on their scientific performance: A percentile-based approach
N. Zornic, L. Bornmann, M. Maricic, A. Markovic, M. Martić, V. Jeremić

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (5), 65

Abstract
Over the recent years, the subject of university rankings has attracted a significant amount of attention and sparked a scientific debate. However, few studies on this topic focus on elaborating the scientific performance of universities’ institutions, such as institutes, schools, and faculties. For this reason, the aim of this study is to design an appropriate framework for evaluating and ranking institutions within a university. The devised methodology ranks institutions based on the number of published papers, mean normalized citation score (MNCS), and four percentile-based indicators using the I-distance method. We applied the proposed framework and scrutinized the University of Belgrade (UB) as the biggest and the best-ranked university in Serbia. Thus, 31 faculties and 11 institutes were compared. Namely, an in-depth percentile-based analysis of the UB papers indexed in the Science Citation Index Expanded (SCIe) and the Social Science Citation Index (SSCI) for the period 2008-2011 is provided. The results clearly show considerable discrepancies in two occasions: first, when it comes to the question of leading author, and second, when it comes to analyzing the percentile rank classes (PRs) of groups of faculties.
Abstract
Over the recent years, the subject of university rankings has attracted a significant amount of attention and sparked a scientific debate. However, few studies on this topic [...]
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Features and visibility of Spanish health sciences journals in selected databases
M. Abad-García, A. González-Teruel, J. Argento, J. Rodríguez-Gairín

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (5), 64

Abstract
The main features of 207 Spanish health sciences journals active in 2014, and their visibility in six biomedical and multidisciplinary databases are described. Of these databases, Scopus and Ibecs provide the best coverage of these journals, and Medline and WoS the worst. The discipline best represented is medicine, followed by psychology, nursing and pharmacy. Among the observed characteristics, there were an absence of journals published exclusively on paper and the presence of journals published in English or bilingual Spanish-English and with open access. The article includes the journal list, which can be a reference tool for researchers selecting target journals for publication, for publishers in the health sciences areas and for information scientists for use in their database management tasks or in advising other professionals.
Abstract
The main features of 207 Spanish health sciences journals active in 2014, and their visibility in six biomedical and multidisciplinary databases are described. Of these databases, [...]
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Adoption of ICTs by communication researchers for scientific diffusion and data analysis
C. Arcila-Calderón, M. Calderín, I. Aguaded

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (5), 63

Abstract
This study examines the actual use of ICTs by communication and media researchers for scientific diffusion and data analysis. Survey data were collected from members of the International Communication Association (ICA) (n=295). Adoption rate averages of most of the tools were close to the median, except for Twitter, grids, and simulation software. Consistent with past research and the Unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (Utaut), we found that performance expectancy is a predictor of adoption, though this relation was not moderated by age or gender. In the case of scholarly environments, we found that scientific collaboration is a stronger predictor of actual use. Theoretical and practical implications of the findings are discussed.
Abstract
This study examines the actual use of ICTs by communication and media researchers for scientific diffusion and data analysis. Survey data were collected from members of the [...]
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Challenges of publishing open access journals
M. Claudio-González, A. Villarroya

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (5), 62

Abstract
A survey of 1,280 publishers of Spanish scientific journals (43% response rate; n=561) revealed their experiences with open access in scientific production. Quantitative analysis of the data showed that 72% (n=404) of respondents had experience with open access or were engaged in the conversion process. Of these, about 80% valued their experience in positive or very positive terms. Among the most common difficulties associated with the adoption of open access in their journals were the financial constraints and challenges related to organizational structure.
Abstract
A survey of 1,280 publishers of Spanish scientific journals (43% response rate; n=561) revealed their experiences with open access in scientific production. Quantitative analysis [...]
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Spanish scientific production in humanities and social sciences. Some proposals from Dialnet
F. Mateo

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (5), 61

Abstract
Social and human sciences are underrepresented in the international databases. This imbalance is accentuated when the articles are written in Spanish, making it difficult to carry out an evaluation of the scientific production in the Spanish language. This article provides a brief description of the Dialnet database, and of the tools that have been developed to give greater prominence to the author / researcher, which can greatly alleviate the aforementioned lack of visibility. A proposal is made to create a National CRIS (current research information system) based on the existing information in Spanish universities and in Dialnet. Finally, the upcoming launch is reported of a wizard integrated into a single platform that will provide quantitative and qualitative data about researchers’ publications in any language. The author considers it essential that the important and invaluable collaboration of institutions participating in Dialnet –for fourteen years now- continues, and desirable that new institutions join in this effort.
Abstract
Social and human sciences are underrepresented in the international databases. This imbalance is accentuated when the articles are written in Spanish, making it difficult [...]
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News and social networks: audience behavior
P. Masip, J. Guallar, J. Suau, C. Ruiz-Caballero, M. Peralta

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (4), 60

Abstract
Based on a quantitative approach, this paper presents some of the preliminary results of a research project focused on the analysis of the motivations that encourage citizens to actively participate in online news media, using the mechanisms provided by their websites, and through open social network platforms. The findings show that, although there is a widespread discourse of distrust in connection to journalists and the traditional media institutions, as well as general criticism of the actual practices of journalists, the common understanding of the participatory dimension of the media does not entail discourses of change or modification of the existing hegemony. Instead of turning to alternative sources, such as citizen journalism or non-traditional media, or taking the lead by creating their own content, citizens prefer to continue to respect journalism as a profession and the traditional media institutions as the main producers of news as well as the most trusted sources of information. Furthermore, although in previous studies audience participation “in” the media has been highlighted, the findings of this research show that the practice of user recommendation or dissemination of media content through social networks has been adopted by a large number of citizens.
Abstract
Based on a quantitative approach, this paper presents some of the preliminary results of a research project focused on the analysis of the motivations that encourage citizens [...]
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Agenda
-. EPI

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (4), 59
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Library systems report. Operationalizing innovation
M. Breeding

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (4), 58

Abstract
This
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UNIR: a project of classification of the best Latin American advertising
R. Repiso, I. Berlanga

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (4), 57

Abstract
The UNIR Ranking is a meta-product that evaluates the quality of ads and advertising agencies in Latin America through the awards made in national and international advertising festivals. The project is a novelty due to the vacuum of advertising rankings in the Latin American context. It has three main activity areas: the Iberoamerican advertising ranking and subnational rankings, a repository of the best adverts of the Latin American geographical area, and a directory of Latin American publicity agencies. These three dimensions make the UNIR Ranking an ideal product for academic research on Latin American advertising activities as well as for university teaching.
Abstract
The UNIR Ranking is a meta-product that evaluates the quality of ads and advertising agencies in Latin America through the awards made in national and international advertising [...]
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Organizational creativity and technological innovation in the iVoz system of La voz de Galicia
M. Arrojo-Baliña

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (4), 56

Abstract
Among the information systems that have emerged in recent years there is iVoz, created in 2012, that comes from the combination of organizational creativity and technological innovation. The creativity of an organization —the Voz de Galicia Corporation - allowed the design of a procedure to deal with information, and consequently to manage its objectives, processes, and results. Technological innovation has made possible an information management procedure focused on very specific aims. The new procedure has allowed the introduction of important changes in the aims of the company, in the production of new information contents, and its dissemination. Details on how this management system works, how it fits into the Corporation , and the main results are explained. Finally, the communication possibilities that are now open, especially for local information, are discussed.
Abstract
Among the information systems that have emerged in recent years there is iVoz, created in 2012, that comes from the combination of organizational creativity and technological [...]
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Information, multimediality and customization in radioapps of Spain and Portugal
T. Piñeiro-Otero

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (4), 55

Abstract
The shift of radio listeners from radios to smartphones has expanded the communicative potential of the broadcasters due to the characteristics of this new distribution platform. The convergence of content and communication on the smartphone screen gives radio stations the opportunity to enrich their multimedia messages, explore new ways of distribution and achieve advances in customization of the medium. The connectivity of these devices and location technologies also multiply the potential for local information, enabling a contextualized experience. This paper aims to analyse the adaptation of talk radio stations in Spain and Portugal to the radioapps from a content perspective and also to assess the possibilities of customizing access and consumption.
Abstract
The shift of radio listeners from radios to smartphones has expanded the communicative potential of the broadcasters due to the characteristics of this new distribution platform. [...]
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Slow journalism in the immediacy era. Experiences in Ibero-America
G. Rosique-Cedillo, A. Barranquero-Carretero

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (4), 54

Abstract
Slow journalism is a reaction to the dominant journalistic trend to immediacy and scoop and invites us to reflect on the time required to produce and consume rigorous, creative and quality information. After describing the historical and conceptual grounds of this emerging trend, we analyse four paradigmatic experiences in the Ibero-American context: Jot down, FronteraD, La silla vacía, Anfibia and El puercoespín . Born in the late 2000s, these digital natives exemplify the revival of long-form and carefully executed journalism aimed at specialized clubs of readers who demand a more thoughtful approach to journalism.
Abstract
Slow journalism is a reaction to the dominant journalistic trend to immediacy and scoop and invites us to reflect on the time required to produce and consume rigorous, creative [...]
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Adaptation of traditional media to the metamedia innovation
F. Campos-Freire

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (4), 53

Abstract
The aim of this study is to observe how the disruptive innovation generated by technologies, processes and information management systems (creation, recovery, traffic, and access), which is implemented through social metamedia on the Web, are adopted by traditional media to rebalance their business models and value-added networks. In the last ten years, print media in Europe have lost more than 50 million copies in daily circulation, and television is suffering from audience fragmentation and loss of advertising sales. Many newspapers around the world have stopped printing and other large media companies have changed hands or undergone major restructuring. The global media industry’s annual growth is expected to be 5.5% until 2018 but digital advertising is estimated at 10.7% per year.
Abstract
The aim of this study is to observe how the disruptive innovation generated by technologies, processes and information management systems (creation, recovery, traffic, and [...]
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News media credibility in Spain: differences in perception and characterization of the skeptics
S. Roses, B. Gómez-Calderón

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (4), 52

Abstract
The aims of this article are twofold: to examine attitudes towards news media in Spain in order to measure to what extent consumers are critical about them, and to establish possible predictors that characterize the individuals who are the most skeptical. A national survey showed that, in general, Spaniards trust their media, although they do not consider them to be impartial; it also revealed a set of typical characteristics of the more incredulous media consumer group: they are mainly middle-aged men with a high level of education living in large cities in the north of Spain who are distrustful towards interpersonal relationships and watch less TV than the average.
Abstract
The aims of this article are twofold: to examine attitudes towards news media in Spain in order to measure to what extent consumers are critical about them, and to establish [...]
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Stages, conversion factors and a model for the analysis of the new interactive online audiovisual products
C. Sora

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (4), 51

Abstract
Over the past few years, two new audiovisual products have arrived to the Web: documentary web (webdoc) and interactive music video. The emergence of these new subgenres is due to three related conversion factors: the evolution of online audience participation, the arrival of new web standards and codes html5, and the interest of the media and authors in the innovation of online narratives. From the study of the technical qualities of two case studies –the interactive documentary One Million Tower and the interactive music video The Wilderness Downtown - this article asserts a new typology for the study and analysis of these interactive audiovisual productions.
Abstract
Over the past few years, two new audiovisual products have arrived to the Web: documentary web (webdoc) and interactive music video. The emergence of these new subgenres is [...]
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Immersive journalism or how virtual reality and video games are influencing the interface and the interactivity of news storytelling
E. Domínguez-Martín

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (4), 50

Abstract
The possibilities of virtual reality technologies, on the one hand,and the strong influence of videogames as a cultural industry, on the other, are greatly affecting nonfiction digital rhetoric, and journalism in particular. Immersive journalism is an emerging trend that amplifies the impact of the story by creating a sensory and interactive experience. The author presented the firstdoctoral thesis on this topic and summarizes here the context and the main features of this kind of factual storytelling.
Abstract
The possibilities of virtual reality technologies, on the one hand,and the strong influence of videogames as a cultural industry, on the other, are greatly affecting nonfiction [...]
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Brand equity management in the newspaper industry. The case of La vanguardia
M. Victoria-Mas, I. Lacasa-Mas

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (4), 49

Abstract
Newspaper companies have extended their brands through new media. Brand equity is their main competitive advantage. However, most of them do not manage that asset. On the one hand, this article analyses the literature on brand management in media companies. On the other hand, it studies the brand equity of a very reputable newspaper: La vanguardia. We did an extensive survey of nearly 1,200 users. The results show the need for products and corporate behaviour that clearly reflect the editorial principles in order to generate greater brand equity. This article proposes as one of the appropriate means to achieve brand equity the implementation of a comprehensive and strategic communication system. It also encourages the study of other similar cases to verify how newspaper companies manage the value of their brands and to identify methods to help them strengthen it.
Abstract
Newspaper companies have extended their brands through new media. Brand equity is their main competitive advantage. However, most of them do not manage that asset. On the [...]
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Labs as a formula for media innovation
R. Salaverría

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (4), 48

Abstract
This study analyzes the characteristics, activities and results of the laboratories –also known simply as labs– promoted in recent years by certain high-quality international news companies. A comparative study of 31 labs was performed, based on the corporate information offered on their websites and on their Twitter accounts. This analysis identifies the prototypical structure, tasks, operations and results of the media-promoted labs as of January 2015. The research identifies four main models: 1) labs that develop applications and digital technologies; 2) labs that explore multimedia news storytelling and data journalism formats; 3) labs that promote business projects and startups; and finally, 4) labs focused on training activities and media literacy programs.
Abstract
This study analyzes the characteristics, activities and results of the laboratories –also known simply as labs– promoted in recent years by certain high-quality international [...]
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ICT and journalistic deontology: a comparative analysis between traditional and digital native media
J. Suárez-Villegas

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (4), 47

Abstract
The perceptions of journalists who work in traditional media with an online version and journalists working in online native media about the advantages and disadvantages of digital journalism in realtion to conventional one are compared. Citizen participation in the informative processes is analyzed, as well as some ethical and deontological journalism principles.
Abstract
The perceptions of journalists who work in traditional media with an online version and journalists working in online native media about the advantages and disadvantages of [...]
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New media accountability systems. Exploration of the Spanish online environment
M. Mauri-Ríos, X. Ramon-Vegas

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (4), 46

Abstract
In a profoundly changing context, media accountability systems have clearly undergone a process of evolution by taking advantage of the internet and web 2.0 possibilities. While traditional instruments have a limited impact on professional practice and are scarcely used by citizens, the digital environment allows new ways of self-regulation, transparency, and monitoring of news quality, in which users’ participation plays a decisive role. The article identifies, describes and categorizes the new online accountability systems that have emerged in the Spanish media landscape, examining those that operate both within and outside digital media. The analysis of the identified systems has allowed the elaboration of a first classification of the innovative accountability systems existing in Spain.
Abstract
In a profoundly changing context, media accountability systems have clearly undergone a process of evolution by taking advantage of the internet and web 2.0 possibilities. [...]
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Study of media habits among youth. The 15M and the Umbrella movements
A. Fernández-Planells

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (4), 45

Abstract
The study of a population’s media habits and, in particular, the youth population, can allow us to predict the new communication ecosystem. Current networked social movements are characterized by citizen mobilization (especially young people), the occupation of public space, and the use of information and communication technologies (ICT). Therefore, monitoring these movements can detect technological development and communication trends. This article presents a longitudinal study of media devices used by activists to be informed about the 15M Movement in Spain and the Umbrella Movement in Hong Kong. The study was carried out through three surveys conducted in 2011 (N=339), 2013 (N=6167) and 2014 (N=419). The results show the emergence of mobile devices as information channels, especially among young people. However, this does not imply the abandonment of traditional media; both large and small screens coexist and complement each other.Nevertheless, traditional media are losing the privileged role that they have had
Abstract
The study of a population’s media habits and, in particular, the youth population, can allow us to predict the new communication ecosystem. Current networked social movements [...]
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News and social networks: audience behavior
P. Masip, J. Guallar, J. Suau, C. Ruiz-Caballero, M. Peralta

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (4), 44

Abstract
Based on a quantitative approach, this paper presents some of the preliminary results of a research project focused on the analysis of the motivations that encourage citizens to actively participate in online news media, using the mechanisms provided by their websites, and through open social network platforms. The findings show that, although there is a widespread discourse of distrust in connection to journalists and the traditional media institutions, as well as general criticism of the actual practices of journalists, the common understanding of the participatory dimension of the media does not entail discourses of change or modification of the existing hegemony. Instead of turning to alternative sources, such as citizen journalism or non-traditional media, or taking the lead by creating their own content, citizens prefer to continue to respect journalism as a profession and the traditional media institutions as the main producers of news as well as the most trusted sources of information. Furthermore, although in previous studies audience participation “in” the media has been highlighted, the findings of this research show that the practice of user recommendation or dissemination of media content through social networks has been adopted by a large number of citizens
Abstract
Based on a quantitative approach, this paper presents some of the preliminary results of a research project focused on the analysis of the motivations that encourage citizens [...]
- 0
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New media, new ecosystem
J. Canavilhas

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (4), 43

Abstract
In recent decades, technological advances have enabled the news to go farther, faster and to more consumers. The spatial and temporal constraints that had always affected the information sector lost their importance, opening a window of opportunity thanks to digitization and the internet massification. However, the promised potential quickly faded: the lack of investment, excessive voluntarism and the distance between media companies and research led the media industry to successive failures, with thousands of media closed worldwide. Today, there is no doubt that journalism is experiencing one of the worst periods in its history. It may sound strange that technological evolution has converted an opportunity into a difficulty, but it happened. Nonetheless, how can the process be reversed, transforming the current difficulty into the previous opportunity? This paper delivers some proposals that seek to explore the potential of mobile devices and looks towards these as an escape from the crisis that affects the media companies.
Abstract
In recent decades, technological advances have enabled the news to go farther, faster and to more consumers. The spatial and temporal constraints that had always affected [...]
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Agenda
-. EPI

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (3), 42
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Blasphemy and defamation of religion laws. Implications for media and librarians
P. Sturges

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (3), 41

Abstract
The attack on the weekly Charlie Hebdo by Muslim fanatics is discussed. The author argues that freedom of expression includes the criticism of religious ideas, based on Articles 18 and 19 of the UN’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The types of problematic incidents that occur in connection with religious beliefs, such as blasphemy, defamation and hate speech are reviewed. The relativity of the blasphemy concept, which varies across countries and eras –after science had dismantled unfounded beliefs- is discussed. Several laws are analyzed and court proceedings and penalties imposed in religious cases in several countries are presented. The repeal of blasphemy laws is advocated because they restrict freedom of expression and belief. Legal systems that recognize blasphemy as a crime are a threat to libraries and other institutions of information if they provide access to allegedly blasphemous content.
Abstract
The attack on the weekly Charlie Hebdo by Muslim fanatics is discussed. The author argues that freedom of expression includes the criticism of religious ideas, based on [...]
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Nano-media: From amateur blogs to professional information on the internet
D. Escandell-Montiel

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (3), 40

Abstract
Nano-media have become one of the successful business models of blogs and have started a new information trend that has consolidated since the birth of the main services about ten years ago. This article revises the origins of the nano medium, starting with the initial concepts about the use of blogs, and analyses how they have evolved, taking as the main parameters their commercial development, volume of business, and search for a distinctive identity in opposition to the major online media. These parameters are especially characteristic of a cyberjournalism which is independent from mainstream media.
Abstract
Nano-media have become one of the successful business models of blogs and have started a new information trend that has consolidated since the birth of the main services about [...]
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Methodological strategies for users and social media research: content analysis, grounded theory and discourse analysis
A. González-Teruel

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (3), 39

Abstract
Content analysis, the constructivist version of grounded theory and discourse analysis of discursive psychology are analyzed in the context of research on how users generate and share information on social media. For each of the three designs, the research question, methods of data analysis and research output are studied. This combination of three methodologies is valuable to gain knowledge about the user in that environment, defining the object of study from various aspects of user interaction with information.
Abstract
Content analysis, the constructivist version of grounded theory and discourse analysis of discursive psychology are analyzed in the context of research on how users generate [...]
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Influential factors, drivers and barriers in competitive intelligence system implementations: case study and quantitative analysis
S. Fernández-Pérez, G. Garechana-Anacabe, A. Azkarate-Olaran, J. Núñez-Barrenechea, P. Ortiz-de-Zárate-Garaizabal

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (3), 38

Abstract
Every organizational change project will surely find obstacles and drivers, and the start-up of a competitive intelligence (CI) system confirms the rule. This paper describes the main features of six CI projects leaded by IK4-Ideko , pointing out the challenges and support they experienced while conducting it. This analysis is complemented by quantitatively analyzing the effects of 21 factors considered to have influence on CI system implementation. Results show that CI tools act as drivers and that no factor clearly acts as a barrier for CI, even though human factors are perceived to be nearly inconsequential. The overall handiness of information and the good execution of the first steps of the project can be important factors for future studies.
Abstract
Every organizational change project will surely find obstacles and drivers, and the start-up of a competitive intelligence (CI) system confirms the rule. This paper describes [...]
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New media and innovative companies. Media agencies case study
N. Papí-Gálvez

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (3), 37

Abstract
Digital media open new horizons for research and advertising strategies. Media agencies must adapt their activity to this new reality in order to continue reaching the public and take advantage of business opportunities. This article outlines how this process of assimilation of new media in advertising campaigns expands the services offered by the agencies, building the pillars so that they can be considered innovative companies. To do this, it focuses on the 10 media agencies that manage the largest share of advertising investment in Spain, according to the Infoadex ranking. These companies contribute to the ‘Innovation union’ initiative of the Europe 2020 Strategy.
Abstract
Digital media open new horizons for research and advertising strategies. Media agencies must adapt their activity to this new reality in order to continue reaching the public [...]
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Special features in online journalism. Ten years of Premios Goya and Oscar Awards in Elpais.com (2005-2014)
P. Freixa

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (3), 36

Abstract
The transformation of traditional journalism into online journalism has brought with it a process of translating paper-based formats and procedures into online ones. The first digital teams incorporated the different journalistic genres, with special features about planned events such as election processes, galas, awards ceremonies and musical festivals. Since 2005, Elpais.com has continuously published special features devoted to both the Goya and Oscar awards. The observation and analysis of those interactive and multimedia features provides insight not only into the evolution of stories in digital media, but also into the definition and emergence of an interactive genre of digital media such as the story or feature divided into phases.
Abstract
The transformation of traditional journalism into online journalism has brought with it a process of translating paper-based formats and procedures into online ones. The first [...]
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From transmedia to repurposing journalism. Elpais. com press coverage about case of ebola in Spain
C. Costa-Sánchez, A. Rodríguez-Vázquez, X. López-García

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (3), 35

Abstract
Transmedia storytelling has become a useful strategy for fiction, documentaries, and for marketing and corporate communication. However, the study of this new tool applied to journalism and reporting has received less attention and has been more recent and theoretical. The aim of the present work is to determine whether or not Elpais.com has employed trans media storytelling in the press coverage of the first confirmed case of ebola in Spain.
Abstract
Transmedia storytelling has become a useful strategy for fiction, documentaries, and for marketing and corporate communication. However, the study of this new tool applied [...]
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Mobile apps of Spanish talk radio stations. Analysis of SER, Radio Nacional, COPE and Onda Cero’s proposals
S. Herrera-Damas, E. Ferreras-Rodríguez

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (3), 34

Abstract
Mobile devices today have become the center of our connectivity. Radio companies tailor their content in several ways: podcasting, streaming, and mobile applications. The aim of this paper is to learn more about the mobile app content of the most popular talk radio stations in Spain. For this purpose, in January 2015 we conducted a qualitative content analysis in order to establish the type of products provided, their structure and hierarchy, and to determine to what extent Spanish talk radio stations are taking full advantage of this new potential.
Abstract
Mobile devices today have become the center of our connectivity. Radio companies tailor their content in several ways: podcasting, streaming, and mobile applications. The [...]
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New media innovation: the case of entrepreneurial sports journalism
J. Manfredi-Sánchez, J. Rojas-Torrijos, J. Herranz-de-la-Casa

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (3), 33

Abstract
Entrepreneurial journalism is the set of projects created since 2008 by journalists to deal with the transformation of the Spanish media market. Specialization in sports stands out as one of the levers of growth, constituting around 17 per cent of the new media outlets. The degree of innovation in journalism production are analyzed through the measurement of two elements: their value proposition, in particular their business model, and the new ways of storytelling deployed in journalism. We identified and assessed 65 new media according to their degree of innovation. We concluded that new projects generating traditional genres (news, information services) are less innovative in the pursuit of business models. Conversely, the use of different genres (slow journalism) goes hand in hand with models not based only on advertising and sales. In conclusion, while there is little innovation in 41 projects of sports news, at least 8 initiatives with an innovative proposal stand out.
Abstract
Entrepreneurial journalism is the set of projects created since 2008 by journalists to deal with the transformation of the Spanish media market. Specialization in sports stands [...]
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Quality perception of entertainment TV shows in Spain: production values
E. Guerrero, C. Etayo

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (3), 32

Abstract
The aim of this paper is to analyse which production values are more determinant regarding the audience’s quality perception with respect to different types of entertainment television genres. In order to develop this study, we have taken into account production values such as the creative and technical quality, the host, the set and the content. The main source of data for this empirical study is an original survey. The target population consisted of the Spanish population and the sample was designed to be representative. The results show that in spite of the emergence of the connected TV –resulting from the convergence of television and the internet–, which is profoundly changing the audiovisual market, the cornerstone of their business remains the same: content quality.
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to analyse which production values are more determinant regarding the audience’s quality perception with respect to different types of entertainment [...]
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The myth of the global conversation. uses of Twitter in Catalan and Belgian newsrooms
S. Pérez-Soler, J. Micó-Sanz

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (3), 31

Abstract
The findings of a study of the use of social networks in newsrooms are presented. The objects of study are Catalan and Belgian journalists. A traditional newspaper and a pure player of each region are studied through qualitative (in-depth interviews and non-participant observation) and quantitative techniques (content analysis of corporate Twitter accounts) collected between 2013 and 2014. The journalists have adapted the microblogging site in their daily work routines to access information and to disseminate their own content; however, contact with sources and conversation with the audience, which are recommended uses in the 2.0 communication system to encourage bidirectionality, were limited.
Abstract
The findings of a study of the use of social networks in newsrooms are presented. The objects of study are Catalan and Belgian journalists. A traditional newspaper and a pure [...]
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Social media and television: a bibliographic review based on the Web of Science
F. Segado, M. Grandío, E. Fernández-Gómez

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (3), 30

Abstract
Una de las principales tendencias en la investigación actual sobre televisión se centra en el creciente papel de los medios sociales en el consumo televisivo. Este artículo revisa la bibliografía encontrada sobre medios sociales y televisión en la base de datos bibliográfica Web of Science desde 2005 a 2013. El objetivo es resaltar las cuestiones de investigación que están liderando el estudio tales como el debate sobre la definición de televisión social, el papel central de Twitter como principal herramienta social para la realización de actividades de “segunda pantalla”, los formatos de tele-realidad como los más comentados en las redes sociales, junto con otras formas de expresión del fenómeno fan. Las conclusiones de este artículo reflexionan sobre posibles limitaciones de estos análysis y subraya nuevas líneas de investigación.
Abstract
Una de las principales tendencias en la investigación actual sobre televisión se centra en el creciente papel de los medios sociales en el consumo televisivo. Este artículo [...]
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2014 Ranking of journalistic innovation in Spain. Analysis and classification of 25 initiatives
A. De-Lara-González, F. Árias-Robles, M. Carvajal-Prieto, J. García-Avilés

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (3), 29

Abstract
The 2014
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Ideas to revitalize research about online media
R. Salaverría

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (3), 28

Abstract
Digital news media –and, together with them, the scholarly research on this phenomenon– are entering their third decade. Throughout the years, research on online journalism has progressed and diversified considerably. However, some areas could still achieve further development. The author proposes five ideas to give a boost to this research discipline in the next decade: 1) move towards a digital native research framework; 2) use advanced technologies in research; 3) focus on research that encourages innovation; 4) increase the amount of analytical research, instead of descriptive studies; and 5) investigate unexplored topics and areas.
Abstract
Digital news media –and, together with them, the scholarly research on this phenomenon– are entering their third decade. Throughout the years, research on online journalism [...]
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Agenda
-. EPI

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (2), 27
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Descripción del software OdiloTT
-. ODILO

El profesional de la información (2015). Vol. 24, (2), 26
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