bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seroprevalence of brucellosis in patients with prolonged fever in Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman AKM Anisur , Berkvens Dirk , Saegerman Claude , Fretin David , Muhammad Noor , Hossain Akram , Abatih Emmanuel
Published: September 2016

Introduction: This study describes the seroprevalence of human brucellosis among pyretic patients and detection of Brucella abortus DNA from seropositive pyretic patients using real-time polymerase chain reaction (rtPCR) for the first time in Bangladesh. Methodology: Blood samples were collected from 300 pyretic patients from October 2007 to May 2008 and subjected to three serological tests: Rose-Bengal plate test (RBT), standard tube agglutination test (STAT), and indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA). Risk factors were identified by multivariate Firth’s logistic regression analysis. Brucella genus (BCSP31) and species-specific (IS711) rtPCR were applied to six human sera samples. Results: The seroprevalence of brucellosis among pyretic patients was estimated to be 2.0% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.74–4.30). The odds of brucellosis seropositivity were 8.9 (95% CI: 1.26–63.0) times higher in pyretic patients who handled goats than those who handled only cattle, whereas the odds of brucellosis seropositivity were 9.7 (95% CI: 1.28–73.68) times higher in pyretic patients who had backache compared to those without backache. B. abortus DNA was amplified from all six human sera that tested positive by RBT, STAT, and iELISA. As the agreement between the tests was very strong, RBT is recommended as a screening test for the diagnosis of human brucellosis in Bangladesh because it is easier to use, cheaper, and faster. Conclusions: Brucellosis among pyretic patients is common, and B. abortus is responsible for brucellosis in such patients. Pyretic patients who handle goats and those with backaches should be screened for brucellosis.
Antimicrobial susceptibility and vaginolysin in Gardnerella vaginalis from healthy and bacterial vaginosis diagnosed women
Authors: Knupp de Souza Daniele Maria , Diniz Claudio Galuppo , Filho Didier Silveira Castellano , Andrade de Oliveira Laura Maria , Coelho Débora Martins , Talha Luciana de Souza , Nascimento Thiago César do , Ferreira-Machado Alessandra Barbosa , Silva Vânia Lúcia da
Published: September 2016

Introduction: Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a syndrome related to Gardnerella vaginalis and is characterized by an imbalance in the vaginal microbiota. This work focused on the evaluation of antimicrobial susceptibility patterns and the occurrence of the vaginolysin (vly) gene in G. vaginalis isolated from BV and non-BV patients. Methodology: The vaginal secretions were collected randomly and processed for G. vaginalis isolation. The isolates were presumptively identified by β-hemolysis and oxidase and catalase tests. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to confirm bacterial identity and to detect the vly gene. Antimicrobial susceptibility patterns were determined. Results: Of 89 patients, G. vaginalis was isolated from 42 (37 BV and 5 non-BV), and 204 isolates were selected (179 from BV and 25 non-BV). The vly gene was detected in all G. vaginalis isolated from non-BV women and in 98.3% of the bacteria from BV patients. High resistance was observed for ampicillin (54.4%), metronidazole (59.8%), tinidazole (60.3%) and secnidazole (71.6%). Conclusions: Further studies are needed to better address the role of G. vaginalis and the vly gene in BV pathogenesis.
Gut microbiota related to Giardia duodenalis, Entamoeba spp. and Blastocystis hominis infections in humans from Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Iebba Valerio , Santangelo Floriana , Totino Valentina , Pantanella Fabrizio , Monsia Anatole , Di Cristanziano Veronica , Di Cave David , Schippa Serena , Berrilli Federica , D'Alfonso Rossella
Published: September 2016

Introduction: Literature data provide little information about protozoa infections and gut microbiota compositional shifts in humans. This preliminary study aimed to describe the fecal bacterial community composition of people from Côte d’Ivoire harboring Giardia duodenalis, Entamoeba spp., and Blastocystis hominis, in trying to discover possible alterations in their fecal microbiota structure related to the presence of such parasites. Methodology: Twenty fecal samples were collected from people inhabiting three different localities of Côte d’Ivoire for copromicroscopic analysis and molecular identification of G. duodenalis, Entamoeba spp., and B. hominis. Temporal temperature gradient gel electrophoresis (TTGE) was used to obtain a fingerprint of the overall bacterial community; quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was used to define the relative abundances of selected bacterial species/group, and multivariate statistical analyses were employed to correlate all data. Results: Cluster analysis revealed a significant separation of TTGE profiles into four clusters (p < 0.0001), with a marked difference for G. duodenalis-positive samples in relation to the others (p = 5.4×10-6). Interestingly, qPCR data showed how G. duodenalis-positive samples were related to a dysbiotic condition that favors potentially harmful species (such as Escherichia coli), while Entamoeba spp./B. hominis-positive subjects were linked to a eubiotic condition, as shown by a significantly higher Faecalibacterium prausnitzii-Escherichia coli ratio. Conclusions: This preliminary investigation demonstrates a differential fecal microbiota structure in subjects infected with G. duodenalis or Entamoeba spp./B. hominis, paving the way for using further next-generation DNA technologies to better understand host-parasite-bacteria interactions, aimed at identifying potential indicators of microbiota changes.
Spectrum of Childhood and Adolescent Ovarian Tumors in India: 25 Years Experience at a Single Institution
Authors: Rathore Ruchi , Sharma Sonal , Arora Deepshikha
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND: Ovarian tumour in children and adolescent girls form an uncommon but important part of gynaecological malignancies. They account for 1% of all the childhood malignancies and 8% of all abdominal tumours in children. Since the ovarian cysts are thought to arise from mature follicles, these tumours were considered to be infrequent in the paediatric population.AIM: The rarity of this condition prompted us to conduct this study and share our experience on the incidence and clinicopathological features of different ovarian tumours in girls up to 20 years of age observed in last 25 years at a single tertiary care hospital.MATERIAL AND METHODS: This was a retrospective study conducted in the Department of Pathology at a tertiary hospital, Delhi. All ovarian tumours up to the age of 20 years in the past 25 years (1990-2014) were included for the purpose of studying the clinicopathological aspects of ovarian tumours in this age group. Descriptive statistics for prevalence and age-wise prevalence was done. Chi-square test, to find an association between the age, laterality and size with malignancy was performed.RESULTS: We received a total of 1102 cases of ovarian tumours over the period of 25 yearsÂ  (1990 to 2014), of which 112 (10%) cases were seen in girls up to 20 years of age. The mean age of the patients was 15.3 Â± 4 years. The most common presenting complaint was pain abdomen (46.4 %) There was a statistically significant correlation found between size and malignancy status of tumours in our study (p = 0.00). Of 112 cases of ovarian tumours, 39/112 (34.8%) were malignant and 73/112 (65.2%) were benign. MatureÂ  cystic teratoma (27.6%) was the most common type of benign tumour in this age group and immature teratomas were the most common type of malignant ovarian neoplasms.CONCLUSION: Premenarchal girls with ovarian masses may have varied presentations. Abdominal pain is the most common presenting complaint of young adolescent girls with adnexal masses. So the index of suspicion should be kept high and prompt investigations like ultrasound must be performed early to rule out such adnexal masses. Immature Teratoma was the most common malignant and mature cystic teratoma was the most common benign tumour in our study.
aiRe d’ados, un dispositif au service des jeunes en situation d’impasse suicidaire et de leurs réseaux
Authors: Schmid Nichols Nathalie , Cebe Yasmine , Edan Anne , Baricault Xavier
Published: September 2016

Cet article présente un dispositif transverse genevois développé avec des membres d’institutions de la santé et du social, travaillant auprès de jeunes en situation de risque suicidaire. Notre région possédant de nombreuses ressources d’aides, il nous importait de ne pas créer « une institution de plus » mais de tisser un filet de sécurité autour de l’adolescent suicidant, de penser une aire au service du collectif et de nos liens, souvent mis à l’épreuve dans le suivi des adolescents.
L’évolution : aemo et mjie
Authors: Respaud Aurélie
Published: September 2016

La « spécialisation » de la pjj en matière pénale surcharge les accueils et suivis en aemo . Ce mouvement entraîne une augmentation paradoxale des suivis civils par la pjj et un amalgame aemo-mjie . Rappel du temps et des étapes nécessaires difficiles à respecter.
Le semo de L’Enfance catalane à Perpignan : une réponse alternative et innovante pour des adolescents en grande difficulté
Authors: Alizé Nathalie
Published: September 2016

Le semo de L’Enfance catalane (Pyrénées-Orientales) est un service qui propose des interventions en milieu ouvert, soutenues dans leurs rythmes et moyens, dont notamment l’hébergement ponctuel ou séquentiel, pour des adolescents, de jeunes adultes et leurs parents en grande difficulté (conflits intra-familiaux, conduites à risque, processus de déscolarisation). À travers cet article, le semo vient partager une pratique diversifiée et innovante…
Le rugby, l’école et la jeunesse populaire
Authors: Basson Jean-Charles
Published: September 2016

Depuis dix ans, l’association Rebonds ! initie la jeunesse populaire toulousaine au rugby en animant des « cycles d’initiation » dans les écoles. Opérant un cadrage scolaire de la discipline, elle éduque les jeunes rugbymen selon la conception entendue par Durkheim. Intégrés au « dispositif de suivi », ces derniers bénéficient d’un encadrement assuré par l’association qui coordonne les acteurs de leur environnement direct contribuant à leur éducation. Ce processus de socialisation vise à doter chaque jeune d’un répertoire de dispositions variées et activables selon les contextes fréquentés.
Préserver, protéger, transmettre, plus que jamais…
Authors: Babonneau Marc
Published: September 2016

Alors que l’actualité nous ramène d’une façon brûlante à la question de l’atteinte à la beauté et à la culture comme prémisse ou corollaire du retour à la barbarie et au chaos, nous interrogerons, à travers l’exemple historique des Palais d’été à Saint-Pétersbourg, avec le recul que le temps a permis, tous les mouvements alternés qui ont sous-tendu leur destruction et leur restauration, nous souvenant, en particulier, de ce que Freud a théorisé dans « Malaise dans la civilisation ».
Se souvenir, accuser, se justifier : les premiers témoignages sur la France et les Français des années noires (1944-1949)
Authors: Joly Laurent , Passera Françoise
Published: September 2016

Durant les années qui ont suivi la Libération, de nombreuses publications sur la guerre et l’occupation sont parues en France. Le présent article est fondé sur l’analyse intensive d’un corpus quasi-exhaustif de 744 témoignages parus du dernier trimestre de 1944 jusqu’à la fin de 1949. Traitée de manière informatique, l’étude de ce corpus enrichit notre connaissance de la proto-mémoire française de la Deuxième Guerre mondiale. L’analyse, distinguant neuf grandes catégories de témoignages, permet de rendre compte de l’importance et de la chronologie des différentes prises de paroles, ainsi que du caractère beaucoup plus éclaté et multiforme qu’on ne l’imaginait de l’ensemble de ces publications.
L’aire du témoignage
Authors: Rioul René
Published: September 2016

Le témoignage historique ne concerne pas seulement des situations extrêmes, comme celle des poilus ou des déportés, contrairement à ce que pensent certains chercheurs, parce que toute personne racontant sa propre histoire est pleinement un témoin voire un acteur de l’Histoire, surtout en période de guerre, mais aussi dans bien d’autres circonstances. Ce n’est pas non plus un genre littéraire, car la valeur d’un témoignage ne dépend pas d’un jugement esthétique, même quand il a sa beauté. Tous les écrits autobiographiques, dont la masse des inédits accessibles dans les archives, sont donc a priori des témoignages valables, qu’ils soient ou non publiés, même si on choisit pour des raisons pratiques de se limiter aux textes publiés.
Pour une histoire de la protestation combattante dans les armées occidentales en guerre depuis 1945
Authors: Haddad Galit
Published: September 2016

La question du « refus combattant » est restée relativement peu étudiée par l’histoire du phénomène guerrier et par les sciences sociales. Sans entrer dans le fond du corpus, cet article propose une réflexion conceptuelle sur le sujet en cherchant, parallèlement, à ouvrir des nouvelles pistes méthodologiques permettant de dégager la spécificité des positions contre la guerre dans les armées modernes. Il s’agit, à ce titre, de donner au phénomène du refus une meilleure intelligibilité en réunissant sous un même questionnement des protestations militaires issues d’armées différentes, engagées dans des affrontements également distincts, et pourtant solidement reliées entre elles.
La montée en puissance de la machine de guerre industrielle : vers une économie mixte (1914-1919)
Authors: Bonin Hubert
Published: September 2016

Tandis que les stratégies et les offensives mobilisent les hommes, l’autre front devient essentiel afin d’alimenter les régiments en artillerie, munitions et équipements de base, mais en fonction des choix stratégiques de l’état-major. Les industries de l’armement sont ainsi structurées en groupements d’entreprises pour la production et l’innovation et essaiment en systèmes productifs régionaux mêlant grandes entreprises et PME. La guerre économique s’intensifie dès 1915-1916 et devient un enjeu de la résistance, puis de la victoire.
La sphragís de las Metamorfosis de Ovidio (XV 871-879). Metempsicosis, apoteosis y perdurabilidad literaria
Authors: Río Torres-Murciano Antonio
Published: September 2016

La predicción que de su propia inmortalidad hace Ovidio en la sphragís de las Metamorfosis ha sido entendida como una última transformación equiparable, por su dualismo, a la metempsicosis y a la apoteosis. Un examen de las causas de estos procesos permite, sin embargo, poner de relieve la especificidad de la perdurabilidad literaria, que es producto del favor de los lectores y no de una ley natural, como la metempsicosis, ni de una merced de los dioses, como la apoteosis.
A Conceptual Framework for Educational System Operation Management Synchronous with Big Data Approach
Authors: Shidaganti Ganeshayya Ishwarayya , Prakash S
Published: September 2016

The philosophical interpretation of operation management in the process of delivering a 360 degree digitized educational system requires a core approach of supervision, scheming and finally controlling the mechanism of delivery the educational service and its constitutes operations. In today's world of telecommunication, internetworking, cloud infrastructure and computational advancement, a collaborative mechanism of intelligent and reachable educational system is being conceptualized which provoke a notion of “one world one university”. The chapter aim to illustrate different source and applications of BigData Generation in educational system operations, existing mechanism to store and process these generated data, limitations of existing mechanisms and conceptualization of a novel framework. Further it aims to discuss different intelligent analytics approach to improvise the teaching-learning philosophy.
Digital Entrepreneurial Charity and Solidarity for Social Change
Authors: Saiz-Alvarez José Manuel , Colvin-Díez Jorge
Published: September 2016

Microcredit has been studied from many perspectives. In this chapter, we analyze KIVA, the most important Person-to-Person microfinance organization from the perspective of social change, and we study how it has impacted on the nascent of a new wave of entrepreneurs known as digital entrepreneurial charity. Applied to KIVA, we analyze the impact of the digital space and its Internet-based Peer-to-Peer Lending to create social change in the poor, while alleviating the poverty thanks to solidarity and charity. This work concludes affirming that banking the poor and education, with the intensive use of Internet-based devices, is the best way to alleviate poverty in our digital and globalized economic world.
E-Learning Solution for Enhancing Entrepreneurship Competencies in the Service Sector
Authors: Bodea Constanţa-Nicoleta , Stelian Stancu , Mogos Radu-Ioan
Published: September 2016

The chapter proposes an e-Learning solution for the entrepreneurship education, based on several simulation modules integrated into a classical learning management system. The originality of the approach is that the solution is domain independent and applied advanced IT technologies, such as agent-based simulations and extended graphical support. Using this e-learning solution, the students can learn how to choose characteristics/aspects for particular type of business and how important is each of them according specific criteria; how to set realistic values for different characteristics/aspects of the business, how a business scenario can be changed in order to fit better to the business context (business reality), modeled through by the scenario pattern and how to assess/evaluate business scenarios.
Discoloration of Historic Wood after the Application of Nanotextiles
Authors: Šmidtová Markéta , Kroftová Klára
Published: September 2016

The article addresses the discoloration of historic wood after application of nanotextiles. The nanofiber fabrics used for experimental testing were made of the PVB polymer and the Paraloid B72 acrylic resin. For the verification of the possibility to increase the biocidal efficiency of historic wood have also been made nanotextile with dopants Ag ant TiO2. Discoloration of historic wood after the application of selected nanotextiles were tested on the wood samples, which were removed from historic building Hájčí Dvůr, Praha 5. The article was written with support from the research project NAKI DF12P01OVV37: Progressive Non-Invasive Methods for the Stabilization, Conservation and Strengthening of Historic Structures and their Parts with Fiber – and Nanofiber – based Composite Materials.
The Behavior of Fly Ash in Concrete Mixture
Authors: Zobal Ondřej , Padevět Pavel , Bittnar Zdeněk , Kopecký Lubomír , Šmilauer Vít
Published: September 2016

It is desirable to use secondary raw materials with regard to the sustainable development. One such suitable material is fly ash. Still enough unused possibility of using fly ash is the use in cement and concrete. This use brings a positive ecological and economic effect. However, it is important to devote to the behavior of fly ash in concrete mixture at the macro and micro level. This paper deals with selected properties as a positive influence on the development of hydration heat, the increase in compressive strength or problems with water absorption fly ash.
Influence of Carbon Nanotubes on Mechanical Properties of High Performance Concrete (HPC)
Authors: Vlach Tomáš , Laiblová Lenka , Kumar Anuj , Chira Alexandru
Published: September 2016

The aim of this work is to study the influence of carbon nanotubes in the cement matrix of high performance concrete (HPC) on flexural and compressive strength. This paper describes the samples preparation for the flexural and compression experimental tests. In order to understand the effect of carbon nanotubes in the cement matrix, a scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis was carried out. It was reported after experimental tests that an improper dispersion of nanoparticles can have a negative influence on the mechanical properties. The dispersion of carbon nanotubes in the cement matrix is the most important aspect in order to attain the predicated influence on the mechanical properties.
Influence of Finely Ground Recycled Concrete on Microstructure of Cement-Based Composite Material
Authors: Topič Jaroslav , Prošek Zdeněk , Fladr Josef , Trejbal Jan , Tesárek Pavel , Karra'a George
Published: September 2016

This article deals with using recycled concrete in cement-based composite materials. The recent studies were mostly focused on utilization of recycled concrete in the form of an aggregate filler. In this study we are investigating the possibility of using finely ground recycled concrete as microfiller or partial substitution for binder. In particular, we focus on changes in microstructure of the cement paste which differed in amount of finely ground recycled concrete (FGRC). We used four mixtures of cement pastes containing 0, 33, 50 and 67 wt. % of FGRC, respectively. For the examination of their microstructure, phase distinction and determination of FGRC influence, the images obtained using optical and electron microscope were used. The first results indicate that cement paste with 33 wt. % of FGRC has similar mechanical properties as reference cement paste. Partial replacement of cement by finely ground recycled concrete leads to a cost reduction of cement-based composites and also can reduce environmental impacts of construction waste disposal and cement production.
Using Waste PUR Granules as an Alternative to Integrated Thermal Insulation in Ceramic Blocks
Authors: Novák Vítězslav , Zach Jiří , Reif Martina
Published: September 2016

The paper deals with the use of waste granular PUR, which currently does not have a wide application in the building practice. Waste granular PUR is formed during the manufacture and moulding of thermal insulation elements made of PUR foam. Good thermal insulation properties can be expected in this waste granular PUR, approaching those of the commonly used thermal insulation today (mineral wool, polystyrene). The paper deals with a thermal insulating mixture of granular PUR with a silicate binder. This newly designed thermal insulation mixture was tested as an alternative integrated thermal insulation in ceramic masonry blocks.
Unsuitable Mounting of Wooden Cladding to the Base Structure and its Consequences
Authors: Kupilík Václav , Hejtmánek Petr , Najmanová Hana
Published: September 2016

Wooden claddings are often being used as a façade layout in recent times. However, there are many possible problems with this construction, either aesthetic or even functional. A drawback is that they might be revealed after longer time period, when it comes to a serious issue. These problems are mainly caused by impropriate mounting of the support structure, impropriate dilatation not respecting various material properties etc. In this article, an example of such problematic cladding mounting on a façade of two-floor family house is presented. Wooden cladding of this house is uneven, cracked, particular planks have different shades, they are not parallel etc.
The Influence of Technology on the Quality Nanotextile
Authors: Klicmanová Iveta , Havrlík Michal
Published: September 2016

Polymer-based nanotextiles are produced by electrostatic spinning. Nanospider technology developed by Prof. Jirsák at Technical University in Liberec also uses electrospinning. This technology has been modified over time. The aim of this paper is to compare two modifications of this technology and determine which one is more suitable for the production of nanotextiles for civil engineering applications. The comparison was performed using images from scanning electron microscope and measurements of weight per square meter of the fabrics. For the civil engineering applications it is important for the fabric to be as homogeneous at macroscale as possible, so that properties of different parts of the fabric are approximately equal. We have found that modification of Nanospider technology using rotating roller provides better results than a modification which involves a movable slider.
Evaluation of Permeability Tests of Surface Layer of Concrete of Various Composition
Authors: Misák Petr , Pőssl Petr , Kocáb Dalibor , Rozsypalová Iva , Stavař Tomáš
Published: September 2016

Concrete is one of the most common building materials and its durability has been observed with increased attention. It can be said that concrete durability is closely connected with permeability and, generally speaking, the quality of its surface layer. Evaluating the quality of the surface layer of concrete is a rather difficult issue which can be addressed in different ways. The authors of this paper focus on three internationally used methods – TPT, GWT and ISAT. The paper sums up the results of the experiment whose goal was to investigate the influence of concrete composition on the outputs of the above-mentioned methods. For the purposes of the experiment, specimens were made using 9 mixtures which differed only in the amount of cement and plasticiser, i.e. water/cement ratio. The experiment was designed and evaluated using the statistical methodology DOE (Design of Experiment). Next, the paper discusses a new view of statistical evaluation of test results of the methods described above.
Design of Methodology for Non-Destructive Testing of Steel-Reinforced-Fiber-Concrete
Authors: Komárková Tereza
Published: September 2016

Measuring instruments used for non-destructive testing of structures thanks to advances in electronics and electrical engineering are still more frequently applied. Among the building materials with which the ability to perform quality control using non-destructive testing methods would be most welcome is indisputably steel reinforced fibre concrete (SFRC). The paper deals with the design of new methods and methodologies that enable determination of the concentration and orientation of steel fibres in steel fibre reinforced concrete. Especially the distribution of steel fibres in concrete is the quintessential aspect of this construction material. Initial results of experiments have demonstrated the applicability of the proposed methods and methodologies and the objective of the article is to introduce it to the scientific community.
Characterisation of Micoorganism from Individual Layers of the Building Envelope (ETICS) and Methods of their Sampling
Authors: Ryparová Pavla , Rácová Zuzana
Published: September 2016

The current situation of contact insulation systems from 80s and 90s is fallback and they do not correspond with current valid technical norm. The almost case is necessary refurbishment of building envelope or performance of additional insulation. The question "what ETICS hides inside" occurs, and whether the removal is necessary or whether the making of additional insulation directly on the current one is possible. This is connected with occurring of growth microorganism especially mold through building envelope. Our article is about problem of mold through building envelope esp. ETICS in territory of Czech Republic. The results show that the whole ETICS is contaminated with mold and there is a risk that if there are appropriate conditions for the fungus in building envelope and the newly remade ETICS will be attacked, then it will be the danger to the health of the users of building. In our research, we have evaluated and verified sampling method for the characterization of biodeteriogens which are accessible and user friendly for public.
The Properties of Historical Wrought Iron Tie Rods
Authors: Králíková Monika , Cikrle Petr , Daněk Petr , Bilíková Ivana , Misák Petr
Published: September 2016

The preservation of brick masonry buildings and historically significant buildings is a very hot topic today. A problem that often occurs during reconstruction and modernization is an optimal solution between price and efficiency. First of all, it is necessary to view the object as a complex system, when it is necessary to ensure its spatial rigidity. Planning and progress of reconstruction is then derived from the correct assessment of the building.
The spatial rigidity of buildings in the past was also ensured by means of reinforcing elements. For masonry buildings, wall and beamed ties have been used for this purpose until the end of the 19th century.
Since these wrought ties are made of a completely different material so-called wrought iron, its properties are different from the currently used materials. They differ in both tensile strength and other properties just because of other processing technology and manufacturing. At the time of the construction of the buildings it was not possible to provide a variety of length of the ties, so that ties have been joined by forged connections or adjustable wedge relations.
The article deals with determining the tensile strength of wrought ties obtained by destructive methods. The results of the experiment may serve to predict the behaviour of ties from a similar period.
Repairs of Steel Structures after Long-Term Use in Aggressive Environment
Authors: Gramblička Štefan , Živner Tomáš
Published: September 2016

The article deals with the state of load-bearing structure of a hall which is exposed to effects of chemically aggressive environment during its use. Technology for production of nitrogen fertilizer is located in its premises. The structure was built in 1975 and, being adequately maintained, still remains in its original state. A detailed inspection of the load-bearing structural members, as well as a static calculation, was made between 2012 and 2015. The observed state of the structure and the results of calculations indicated that certain parts required strengthening. The article describes the means of strengthening which were proposed and used.
Modulus Mapping and its Use to Determine the Effect Process of Drying on the Cells of Spruce
Authors: Prošek Zdeněk , Topič Jaroslav , Tesárek Pavel , Nežerka Václav , Králík Vlastimil
Published: September 2016

This article discusses the potential impact of artificial drying to individual cells respectively cell wall, which pass through during the drying process to a rapid loss of water. Parameter of micromechanical properties was used to determine the effect of drying. New method, called "modulus mapping" was used to determine the mechanical properties on nano, micro level. It was found that the indentation modulus of artificially dried sample was lower than for naturally dried sample.
Properties of the Superabsorbent Polymer in Cement Paste
Authors: Otcovská Tereza , Bittnar Petr , Padevět Pavel
Published: September 2016

The article is devoted to compare the properties of super absorbent polymers useful in concrete. The idea of using super absorbent polymers (SAP) is the replacement of the treatment water in concrete structures. The properties are compared in terms of change of the volume and the ability of spilling of cement mixture which contains SAP.
Volume Stability of Polymer-Silicate Based Materials Exposed to High Temperatures
Authors: Melichar Tomáš , Bydžovský Jiří , Dufka Ámos
Published: September 2016

This paper presents research into analysing the volume stability of composite materials based on a polymer-cement matrix. The attention was paid to the influence of extreme temperatures shocks. Materials of modified composition were gradually exposed to extreme temperatures and then cooled in furnaces. Cooling was carried out by two different ways, i.e. slow and rapid. Emphasis was placed on the aggregate type used – fine lightweight and dense. Also available materials from alternative resources which have positive effect on thermal stability of composites based on silicate matrix were considered.
Impact of Relative Humidity on Modified Alkoxysilane Gels
Authors: Benetková Barbora , Peterová Adéla , Slavikova Monika , Kotlík Petr
Published: September 2016

Silicic acid esters have been used as stone consolidants for 50 years now. During this time they became the most popular consolidants for building materials, mainly thanks to their good properties during application. Despise all these positives, the use of alkoxysilanes brings also some drawbacks. The gel of the silicic acid esters, which is responsible for the consolidation, cracks and decays during several years after the treatment so that the consolidation has to be repeated. To suppress the cracking, the alkoxysilanes are often modified. In recent studies, we focused on modification of silicic acid ester gels by SiO2 and Al2O3 nanoparticles. Some of the prepared mixtures cracked less than the unmodified mixture under ambient condition. This work builds on these experiments and works with the selected modified mixtures. As the consolidants are widely used outdoors, it was necessary to compare the degree of cracking of modified gels under various conditions. In this experiment we focused on their cracking under different levels of relative humidity. As the objective evaluation of cracking was needed, we believe to come up with partial solution to this problem – to assort the extent of cracking to some defined category. The categories were defined according to our former experiences with observation of cracking states of the gels. We found out, that the change of relative humidity has huge impact on the way and extent to which the gels cracked. Knowing this information we may be able to prepare the modified consolidant, that better withstands outdoor conditions and thus to preserve our cultural heritage for longer time.
Effect of Acrylic Foam Film on Impact Reduction
Authors: Takeo Kyohei , Nogami Taichi , Adachi Tadaharu , Koretoh Ryohei , Tada Hitoshi
Published: September 2016

Recently, Thin Foam Films are Applied to Cushion Materials on Various Instruments, such as Mobile Phones, Tablet Computers, Etc. because of Reducing Load due to Drop Impact or Collision. Testing Methods of the Thin Films must Be Established to Estimate Effect of Thin Films on Reduction of the Impact Load. in this Research, Impact Reduction Effect of the Acrylic Foam Film with a Thickness below 1000μm was Clarified by Developing a Falling Weight Testing Machine. Maximum Value of the Impact Load Decreased Dominantly and the Plateau Region was Longer as the Thickness Increased. the Duration of the Load was Longer for the Thicker Film. Therefore, the Thin Acrylic Foam Films were Found to Be Effective in the Reduction of the Large Impact Load over 20 Kn.
Measurement of High Frequency Viscoelastic Properties of Deformed Rubber
Authors: Shoyama Tadayoshi , Fujimoto Koji
Published: September 2016

Bearings of small turbo machines support high speed rotors rotating with the frequency over 1 [kHz]. Such bearings are often supported with O-rings made of soft materials like rubber to attenuate high frequency oscillations. Dynamic properties of rubber supporters have been measured experimentally for individual dimensions, but the universal prediction of dynamic properties for various frequencies is difficult not only because rubbers exhibit nonlinearity against its strain, but because O-ring supporters deform heterogeneously. For the precise prediction, it is necessary to investigate the viscoelasticity of rubber under various deformations and frequencies. Such properties can be measured by the standard shear vibration non-response method of ISO 6721-6 (JIS K 7244-6). However this is applicable only to low frequency range under 100 [Hz] because of the limitation of resonance frequency of the load cell. In this research, based on BERM (Base Excitation Resonant Mass) method, a new method was developed to measure the complex shear modulus at high frequencies up to 1 [kHz] of rubber sheets under homogeneous shear deformations. In the presented method, the force is calculated from the acceleration of the mass instead of the direct measurement by a load cell. Hence accurate measurement became possible even in the range beyond the resonance frequency of a load cell. The measured shear storage modulus G’ and shear loss modulus G” of deformed rubber were presented.
DEM/FEM Simulations of Dynamic Response of Projectile Penetrating into Granular Medium
Authors: Takeda Shinnosuke , Ogawa Kinya , Tanigaki Kenichi , Horikawa Keitaro , Kobayashi Hidetoshi
Published: September 2016

Dynamic elastic Finite Element Method (FEM) and Discrete element method (DEM) simulations are carried out to investigate dynamic penetration of a projectile into a target of granular medium. It was found that the highly densified region of granular medium was generated just ahead of the projectile and began to propagate spherically with much higher velocity than that of projectile which leaves relatively rarefied medium region. This propagation phenomenon was probably the result of a collision and momentum transfer between particles in target granular medium. The propagation velocity of the densified region decreased during penetration as depending not only on the packing ratio of target medium but also on the projectile velocity. The resistance force of projectile was also investigated in the case of penetration of projectiles with various body lengths. The resistance force increased rapidly and reached to the peak. The peak value was expressed in terms of momentum change of target particles. The resistance force decreased periodically after the peak value. The period clearly depended on the length of projectile. It is obvious that this was caused by the stress wave reverberations in the projectiles with various body lengths.
Dynamics of Thin-Walled Elements of Rocket Engine under Impact Loads
Authors: Chernobryvko Marina , Avramov Konstantin , Kruszka Leopold , Tonkonogenko Anatolij
Published: September 2016

Stress-strain analysis of a solid-propellant rocket engine is the subject of this study. A chosen material is selected in order to ensure its maximum strength at minimum weight of the engine. The airframe of the rocket engine is a thin-walled structure, which consists of cylindrical and spherical parts. The dynamic behaviour analysis of this thin-walled structure under the action of impact loads is performed. The anisotropic material model and dynamic properties of the shell material are taken into consideration to solve the underlying problem.
Assessment of Dynamic Responses of Skin Simulant in a Drop Weight Penetration Test
Authors: Pramudita Jonas A. , Kato Masashi , Tanabe Yuji
Published: September 2016

Skin laceration injury caused by a penetration of small curvature edge frequently occurs in a domestic accident. An assessment method for this injury is necessary in order to develop a safer manufactured product. To assess the risk of skin laceration injury in a penetration accident, a skin simulant made from silicone rubber was proposed. However, mechanical responses of this skin simulant under dynamic penetration loading have not yet been investigated. In this study, a drop weight penetration test device was developed in order to simulate penetration accidents under impact velocities of over 1 m/s. The device was then used for investigating the dynamic responses of skin simulant against several blades with different tip curvature radii. Load, penetration depth, impulse and energy at rupture were then determined from the test results. Load and penetration depth at rupture increased with the increase of tip curvature radius of the blades. Furthermore, the drop weight test result showed larger response compared to the quasi-static test result which might be caused by the viscous effect and the polymer characteristics such as cross-linking of the skin simulant.
Effect of Slurry Temperature Distribution on Semi-Solid Die Casting
Authors: Qu Wen Ying , Zhang Fan , Wang Jiao Jiao , Hu Xiao Gang , Zhu Qiang
Published: September 2016

Semi-solid alloy slurries with different temperature distributions have diverse flow patterns of the slurries during die casting filling process. This different flow patterns can lead to various degrees of front separation of the slurry metal from the die cavity during die filling process. This separation can result in air entrapment, which is one of the origins for gas porosities and blisters occurred during followed heat treatment. Therefore, in this paper, the effects of slurry temperature distribution on filling patterns during die casting process were investigated. Based on partial filling experiments, positive and negative gradient temperature distribution, together with two homogeneous conditions 575°C, 579°C were compared by computer simulation. The results indicate that the positive gradient temperature condition of 357.0 slurry is more suitable for the semi-solid die casting of the connector, and 7 °C temperature gradient in slurry is appropriate for good filling.
Failure Behaviors of 2D-Cf/Mg Composites Fabricated by Liquid-Solid Extrusion Following Vacuum Pressure Infiltration
Authors: Li Shao Lin , Qi Le Hua , Zhou Ji Ming , Zhang Ting , Dong Kai Yuan
Published: September 2016

Liquid-solid extrusion following vacuum pressure infiltration technique (LSEVI), which integrates melting, pouring, infiltration, and liquid-solid forming under high infiltration pressure, is a promising technique for the fabrication of metal matrix composite. LSEVI technology combines the advantages of both squeeze casting and gas pressure infiltration method. In this study, 2D carbon fiber reinforced AZ91D matrix composites (2D-Cf/Mg composites) were fabricated by LSEVI. Pyrolytic carbon (PyC) coating was deposited on surface of T700 carbon fiber by chemically vapour deposited (CVD) before fabrication. SEM observation indicated that the composites were well fabricated by LSEVI. The ultimate tensile strength of 2D-Cf/Mg composites fabricated by LSEVI was 390-410 MPa. Two kinds of failure behavior were found during tensile test: abrupt failure and progressive failure. The abrupt failure was characterized by a complete failure after the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) was reached. The progressive failure was a unique failure behavior with gradual damage after the UTS. In the case of progressive failure, the remaining strength after the UTS was 79% of the UTS. There was a remaining strength of 200 MPa under the strain of 0.1. Fracture surface morphology indicated that the remaining strength was attributed to the gradual breakage of the fiber bundles.
A Review on Thixoforming of High Melting Point Alloys
Authors: Rassili Ahmed
Published: September 2016

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Dynamic Recrystallization Behavior in Alpha Phase of Semi-Solid Injection-Molded AM60B Magnesium Alloy
Authors: Yanagiya Takehiko , Kishi Yasuhiro , Kajikawa Koji , Yamaguchi Takeshi , Saito Ken , Tanaka Shinji
Published: September 2016

Semi-solid injection molding (Thixomolding) is a molding method for magnesium alloys. Our team has been investigating the forging of thixomolded magnesium body in order to improve its mechanical properties so that the thixomolded magnesium parts expand the application in transportation industry. Thixomolded magnesium alloy can include coarse alpha phase grain when the alloy is molded below liquidus temperature. Although it is expected that the mechanical properties of a forged thixomolded magnesium alloy are affected by the existence of the coarse alpha grains, its microstructure evolution during forging process has not been clarified yet. We studied the dynamic recrystallization (DRX) behavior of a thixmolded magnesium alloy using a cylinder compression test and microstructure observation. The microstructure observation showed that DRX occurred at the grain boundary and within the alpha phase. The Electron backscattering diffraction (EBSD) data showed that DRX is caused not only by diffusion but also by twinning in the alpha phase.
Impact of Metallurgical and Mechanical Properties of Sintered Silver Joints on Die-Attach Reliability of High-Temperature Power Modules
Authors: Tatsumi Hiroaki , Kumada Sho , Fukuda Atsushi , Yamaguchi Hiroshi , Kashiba Yoshihiro
Published: September 2016

Sintered silver bonding processes are expected to offer bonding solutions with high heat endurance for power modules using wide bandgap semiconductors. This study reports the die-attach reliability of the bonding process under thermal cycling tests, focusing on the metallurgical and mechanical properties of sintered silver joints. A nanocrystalline (NC) structure with 150-nm-sized grains was observed in the as-sintered state, while a coarsened structure with microsized grains and pore coalescence was observed after annealing at 350°C for 1 h. In addition, the increase of bonding pressure reduced the number of coarse pores. Transmission electron microscope observations showed favorable crystalline structure along the grain boundaries. Tensile tests at room and high temperature revealed that the sintered silver materials showed the inherent mechanical properties of NC metals. Thermal cycling tests of die-attached specimens demonstrated the temperature dependence of crack resistance at constant amplitude. Furthermore, coalescence of pores and coarsening of grains reduced bonding reliability. It can be inferred from the results that NC structure and minute pore dispersion improves bonding reliability.
Neuro-ophthalmological manifestations after intramuscular medroxyprogesterone: a forme fruste of idiopathic intracranial hypertension?
Authors: Bahall Mandreker , Reyes Antonio Jose , Ramcharan Kanterpersad , Hosein Nadeem , Seegobin Karan , Bahall Krishni , Sharma Hiranyadeva , Dhansingh Stephanie , Mahabir Amanda
Published: September 2016

We report a case of a 22-year-old female student nurse who presented to hospital with an acute neuro-ophthalmological syndrome characterized by papilledema, ataxia, ophthalmoplegia and headache after a single first time use of 150 mg medroxyprogesterone intramuscular injection. Clinical, laboratory, radiological and ophthalmological investigations were in keeping with the diagnosis of idiopathic intracranial hypertension but lumbar puncture did not show a raised cerebrospinal fluid pressure suggesting a forme fruste of this entity. Her neuro-ophthalmological clinical features responded well to acetazolamide and diagnostic/ therapeutic lumbar puncture. Full recovery was achieved three months after medroxyprogesterone usage. Health care providers must be aware of this adverse drug reaction.