bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Observation of Defect Luminescence in 2D Dion–Jacobson Perovskites
Authors: Hu Hao , Liu Yingmeng , Xie Zuoxiang , Xiao Zewen , Niu Guangda , Tang Jiang
Published: October 2021

The luminescent property of 2D perovskite materials promotes their applications in light emitting diodes, phosphor powders, and scintillators. Recently, an interesting extrinsic low‐energy broadband luminescence is hotly investigated. However, the understanding of such emissions is still at the early stage. In this study, based on a modified solvent evaporation method, centimeter‐size (BDA)PbI4 (BDA = NH3C4H8NH32+) single crystals are grown which, besides the band–band emission, show a large Stokes‐shifted broadband luminescence. We find such emission can be effectively excited by sub‐gap photons and conclude defects‐induced shallow traps are the corresponding luminescence centers. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations indicate that in‐plane iodine vacancies can introduce shallow electron traps in the band gap and give rise to the broadband emission.
Electric Field‐Driven Rotation of Magnetic Vortex Originating from Magnetic Anisotropy Reorientation
Authors: Wang Yadong , Mehmood Nasir , Hou Zhipeng , Mi Wenbo , Zhou Guofu , Gao Xingsen , Liu Junming
Published: October 2021

Magnetic vortex, a flux‐closure spin configuration, has shown potential in future high‐density, low‐power magnetic memories due to their nanoscale size and exotic magneto‐electrical transport properties. Although magnetic vortex can be manipulated by various external stimuli in a controllable way, an electrical field‐induced nonvolatile and deterministic reversal rotation of magnetic vortex is yet to be experimentally established. In this work, electrical field‐induced deterministic reversible rotation of a magnetic vortex is realized based on an epitaxial γ   ′‐Fe4N/0.7PbMg1/3Nb2/3O3‐0.3PbTiO3 multiferroic heterostructure. This rotation is nonvolatile and can be triggered by the electric‐field pulse. More importantly, it does not require an assistant magnetic field. Combined experiments and theoretical simulations reveal that the rotation of magnetic vortex originates from the strain‐mediated reorientation of the in‐plane magnetic anisotropy. The results provide an additional degree of freedom for manipulating magnetic vortex, which can open new doors for constructing magnetic vortex‐based memory devices.
Revealing Roles of Co and Ni in Mn‐Rich Layered Cathodes
Authors: Huang Weiyuan , Lin Cong , Zhang Mingjian , Li Shunning , Chen Zhefeng , Zhao Wenguang , Zhu Chen , Zhao Qi , Chen Haibiao , Pan Feng
Published: October 2021

Pressing demand for reducing the dependence of the costly Co and Ni elements has recently made Mn‐rich layered oxides much more attractive as potential cathodes for rechargeable lithium‐ion batteries. Although the Co and Ni effects in Ni‐rich cathodes are investigated in detail, there is still a serious lack of fundamental understandings of the influences of the Co and Ni substitution on the structural and electrochemical properties of the Mn‐rich layered cathodes. Here, Co‐substituted, Co and Ni co‐substituted, and Ni‐substituted Mn‐rich layered cathodes Li(Mn, Ni, Co)O2 are consciously designed to explore the roles of Co and Ni. These results elucidate that Co4+ is destructive for the structural stability of Mn‐rich cathodes due to the increased instability in the lattice oxygen, especially at high potentials, thereby delivering poor cycling stability, while Ni substitution of Co introduces Li/Ni mixing to enhance the lattice oxygen stability and suppress phase segregation and irreversible phase transition, leading to much improved cycling stability. These findings complement the elemental chemistry of the Co‐, Ni‐, and Mn‐based layered oxide cathodes, and benefit the development of Co‐free Mn‐rich layered cathode materials for future rechargeable lithium‐ion batteries.
Prevalence of hearing protection device non‐use among noise‐exposed US workers in 2007 and 2014
Authors: Green Deirdre R. , Masterson Elizabeth A. , Themann Christa L.
Published: October 2021

Background

This study estimated the prevalence of hearing protection device (HPD) non‐use among US workers exposed to hazardous workplace noise and provided risk estimates.

Methods

Self‐reported data from the National Health Interview Survey in 2007 (15,852 workers) and 2014 (23,656 workers) were examined. Weighted prevalence and adjusted prevalence ratios of HPD non‐use (using HPDs half the time or less when exposed to hazardous noise) were estimated by demographic, industry, and occupation. Differences in the prevalences of non‐use were estimated and compared.

Results

The prevalence of HPD non‐use was 53% among all noise‐exposed workers in 2014. Workers in the Accommodation and Food Services industry had the highest prevalence (90%) and risk (PR: 2.47, 95% confidence interval: 1.54–3.96) of HPD non‐use. The industries with the lowest prevalences of noise exposure, including Finance and Insurance (2%) and Health Care and Social Assistance (4%), had some of the highest prevalences of HPD non‐use (80% and 83%, respectively). There were no statistically significant changes in HPD non‐use among industries between 2007 and 2014. Among occupations, HPD non‐use increased 37% in Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports and Media, and decreased 39% in Architecture and Engineering.

Conclusion

The prevalence of HPD non‐use remains high; especially within industries and occupations with fewer noise‐exposed workers. These groups need targeted attention to increase awareness and compliance. Employers should require HPD use and trainings among noise‐exposed workers and provide an assortment of HPDs tailored to noise level and type, workplace environment, communication and audibility needs, and individual comfort and convenience.
Fire‐Retardant, Stable‐Cycling and High‐Safety Sodium Ion Battery
Authors: Yang Zhuo , He Jian , Lai Wei‐Hong , Peng Jian , Liu Xiao‐Hao , He Xiang‐Xi , Guo Xu‐Feng , Li Li , Qiao Yun , Ma Jian‐Min , Wu Minghong , Chou Shu‐Lei
Published: October 2021

The safety of energy storage equipment has always been a stumbling block to the development of battery, and sodium ion battery is no exception. However, as an ultimate solution, the use of non‐flammable electrolyte is susceptible to the side effects, and its poor compatibility with electrode, causing failure of batteries. Here, we report a non‐flammable electrolyte design to achieve high‐performance sodium ion battery, which resolves the dilemma via regulating the solvation structure of electrolyte by hydrogen bonds and optimizing the electrode–electrolyte interphase. The reported non‐flammable electrolyte allows stable charge‐discharge cycling of both sodium vanadium phosphate@hard carbon and Prussian blue@hard carbon full pouch cell for more than 120 cycles with a capacity retention of >85 % and high cycling Coulombic efficiency (99.7 %).
Carbene‐Catalyzed Enantioselective Hydrophosphination of α‐Bromoenals to Prepare Phosphine‐Containing Chiral Molecules
Authors: Maiti Rakesh , Yan Jia‐Lei , Yang Xing , Mondal Bivas , Xu Jun , Chai Huifang , Jin Zhichao , Chi Yonggui Robin
Published: October 2021

Disclosed herein is the first carbene‐organocatalyzed asymmetric addition of phosphine nucleophiles to the in situ generated α,β‐unsaturated acyl azolium intermediates. Our reaction enantioselectively constructs carbon–phosphine bonds and prepares chiral phosphines with high optical purities. The phosphine products are suitable for transforming to chiral ligands or catalysts with applications in asymmetric catalysis. The diarylalkyl or trialkyl phosphine products from our catalytic reactions, air‐sensitive and reactive in nature, can be trapped (and stored) in their sulfur‐oxidized form for operational simplicities.
Novel benzenesulfonamide‐bearing pyrazoles and 1,2,4‐thiadiazoles as selective carbonic anhydrase inhibitors
Authors: Kumar Rajiv , Kumar Amit , Ram Sita , Angeli Andrea , Bonardi Alessandro , Nocentini Alessio , Gratteri Paola , Supuran Claudiu T. , Sharma Pawan K.
Published: October 2021

Two series comprising 20 novel benzenesulfonamides bearing thioureido‐linked pyrazole 8 and amino‐1,2,4‐thiadiazole 10 were synthesized and assayed as human carbonic anhydrase (hCA) inhibitors against isoforms I and II as well as the tumor‐associated isoforms IX and XII. Molecular modeling studies of some potent derivatives (8a, 8c, 10a, and 10c) were also performed against isoforms hCA I, II, and XII. Both the promising series of compounds were synthesized by using commercially available mtethyl ketones and sulfanilamide as the starting materials. Interestingly, this paper also reports a novel methodology for the synthesis of amino‐1,2,4‐thiadiazoles 10 using 3‐amino isoxazoles and 4‐isothiocyanatobenzenesulfonamide as reactants. The activity profile of all the newly synthesized compounds reveals that amino‐linked 1,2,4‐thiadiazoles 10 were better inhibitors of the cytosolic isoform, hCA I, as compared to thioureido‐linked pyrazoles 8. Further, hCA II was strongly inhibited by nearly all the newly synthesized sulfonamides, while all the compounds were less effective as hCA IX and XII inhibitors compared to the standard drug acetazolamide. However, in terms of selectivity, compound 8e was found to be the most selective inhibitor of hCA II, which is the isoform associated with glaucoma, edema, altitude sickness, and epilepsy.
Biotechnological potential of Zymotis‐2 bioreactor for the cultivation of filamentous fungi
Authors: Hamrouni Rayhane , Dupuy Nathalie , Karachurina Alina , Mitropoulou Gregoria , Kourkoutas Yiannis , Molinet Josiane , Maiga Ynoussa , Roussos Sevastianos
Published: October 2021

Background/Aim

A new prototype of Solid‐State Fermentation Bioreactor, namely “Zymotis‐2 ”, was developed to produce fungal spores.

Main Methods and Major Results

A fermentation process for fungal spores, and hydrolase enzymes (endo and exoglucanases, amylases) production by Trichoderma asperellum DWG3, Aspergillus niger G131 and Beauveria bassiana was scaled‐up from flasks and glass Raimbault column packed with 20 g of solid substrates (dry weight) to 5 kg of solid substrate by using the new Zymotis‐2 bioreactor. Fungi strains growth using a mix of vine shoots, wheat bran, and olive pomace was tested under similar experimental conditions in Zymotis‐2 bioreactor, column bioreactor and flasks in a parallel fermentation system. Overall, significant spore production on Zymotis‐2 bioreactor was obtained, achieving 22.01 ± 0.01×109 spores/g DM 16.30 ± 0.07 × 109 spores/g DM, and 3.30 ± 0.07 × 109 spores/g DM for B. bassiana, T. asperellum DWG3, and A. niger G131, respectively. Forced aeration increased the endoglucanases, exoglucanases and amylases activities for T. asperellum DWG3 but B. bassiana and A. niger G131 were affected negatively by the aerated process, showing the lowest enzyme activities.

Conclusions and Implications

In conclusion, a high yield of spores was obtained at 137 h of cultivation time, confirming the validity of the new Zymotis‐2 bioreactor to produce virulent spores at low cost by T. asperellum, B. bassiana and A. niger G131.
Using handheld user interface and direct manipulation for architectural modeling in immersive virtual reality: An exploratory study
Authors: Tastan Hasan , Tuker Cetin , Tong Togan
Published: October 2021

This study comparatively investigates the affordances and constraints of two modeling methods for three‐dimensional modeling in immersive virtual reality (IVR): handheld user interface (HUI) and direct manipulation modeling (DM). The experimental study was conducted with 20 graduate students and two domain experts. Data were collected with screen capture videos of the modeling screen and video recordings of the users' gestures during the modeling session. To triangulate the findings for better reliability, an open‐ended questionnaire was administered just after the modeling session to collect written data about the modeling experience and the investigated modeling methods. Collected data were analyzed by qualitative coding methods. Analyses focused on affordances and constraints of modeling techniques, user preferences about virtual environments, effects of instant scale feature during modeling, locomotion techniques in IVR, ergonomics of the hardware related to modeling tasks, and usability of modeling interfaces in IVR. The results showed that DM modeling could be supported by (i) numeric input via a novel type of keyboard, (ii) a convenient HUI's menu interface with menu hierarchy wherever needed, and (iii) better locomotion techniques. This study generated suggestions for ensuring that efficient modeling applications for design studios, computer aided design courses, and professional practices in IVR can be implemented by investigating affordances and constraints.
Investigation of HIV‐1 Viral Protein R Inhibitory Activities of Twelve Thai Medicinal Plants and Their Commercially Available Major Constituents
Authors: Jaisi Amit , Prema  , Madla Siribhorn , Lee Yuan‐E , Septama Abdi , Morita Hiroyuki
Published: October 2021

Viral protein R (Vpr) is an accessory protein in Human immunodeficiency virus‐1 (HIV‐1) and has been suggested as an attractive target for HIV disease treatment. Investigations of the ethanolic extracts of twelve Thai herbs revealed that the extracts of the Punica granatum fruits, the Centella asiatica aerials, the Citrus hystrix fruit peels, the Caesalpinia sappan heartwoods, the Piper betel leaves, the Alpinia galangal rhizomes, the Senna tora seeds, the Zingiber cassumunar rhizomes, the Rhinacanthus nasutus leaves, and the Plumbago indica roots exhibited the anti‐Vpr activity in HeLa cells harboring the TREx plasmid encoding full‐length Vpr (TREx‐HeLa‐Vpr cells). Moreover, the investigation of the selected main constituents in Punica granatum, Centella asiatica, A. galangal, and Caesalpinia sappan indicated that punicalagin, asiaticoside, ellagic acid, madecassic acid, madecassoside, zingerone, brazilin, and asiatic acid possessed anti‐Vpr activities at the 10 μM concentration. Among the tested extracts and compounds, the extracts from Centella asiatica and Citrus hystrix and the compounds, punicalagin and asiaticoside, showed the most potent anti‐Vpr activities without any cytotoxicity, respectively.
Benefits and risks of conjugal visits in prison: A systematic literature review
Authors: Vladu Alexandra , Kalebic Natasha , Audley Jody , Stevens Alisa , Taylor Pamela J.
Published: October 2021

Background

Imprisonment impacts on lives beyond the prisoner's. In particular, family and intimate relationships are affected. Only some countries permit private conjugal visits in prison between a prisoner and community living partner.

Aims

Our aim was to find evidence from published international literature on the safety, benefits or harms of such visits.

Methods

A systematic literature review was conducted using broad search terms, including words like ‘private’ and ‘family’, to maximise search sensitivity but strict criteria for inclusion – of visits unobserved by prison staff and away from other prisoners. All included papers were quality assessed. Two of us independently extracted data from included papers, according to a prepared checklist. Meta‐analysis was considered.

Results

Seventeen papers were identified from 12 independent studies, all but three of them from North America. The only study of health benefits found a positive association with maintaining sexual relationships. The three before‐and‐after study of partnership qualities suggested benefit, but conjugal visiting was within a wider family‐support programme. Studies with in‐prison behaviour as a possible outcome suggest small, if any, association, although one US‐wide study found significantly fewer in‐prison sexual assaults in states allowing conjugal visiting than those not. Other studies were of prisoner, staff or partner attitudes. There is little evidence of adverse effects, although two qualitative studies raise concerns about the visiting partner's sense of institutionalisation or coercion.

Conclusions

The balance of evidence about conjugal visiting is positive, but there is little of it. As stable family relationships have, elsewhere, been associated with desistance from crime, the contribution of conjugal visiting to these should be better researched.
Rechargeable Sodium‐Ion Battery Based on Polyazaacene Analogue Anode
Authors: Zhang Meng , Tong Yifan , Xie Jian , Huang Weiwei , Zhang Qichun
Published: October 2021

The high theoretical specific capacity, strong structural designability and relatively inexpensive manufacturing cost make the exploration of organic electrode materials more attractive in recent years. In this article, owing to the large π‐conjugated structure, plenty of nitrogen heteroatoms and multiring aromatic system, polyazaacene analogue poly(1,6‐dihydropyrazino[2,3 g]quinoxaline‐2,3,8‐triyl‐7‐(2H)‐ylidene‐7,8‐dimethylidene) (PQL) was applied as the anode in sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). PQL was almost insoluble in conventional liquid organic electrolyte (1 M NaClO4 in ethylene carbonate (EC)/dimethyl carbonate (DMC) (v:v=1 : 1) with 5 % fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC)), which strongly improved its cycle stability. The initial discharge capacity was obtained to be 1825 mAh g−1 at the current density of 100 mA g−1 and stabilized at 317 mAh g−1 after 400 cycles with the coulombic efficiency as high as 97 %. It not only showed good rate capability at high current densities (202, 183 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1 and 1.5 A g−1) but also had a superior energy density around 290 Wh kg−1.
Identifying and describing cancer survivors: Implications for cancer survivorship research and clinical care
Authors: Doose Michelle , Mollica Michelle A. , Attai Deanna J. , Nasso Shelley Fuld , Elena Joanne W. , Jacobsen Paul B. , Tonorezos Emily S. , Nekhlyudov Larissa
Published: October 2021

Background

Gathering information directly from cancer survivors has advanced our understanding of the cancer survivorship experience. However, it is unknown whether surveys can distinguish important subgroups of cancer survivors. This study aimed to describe the current landscape of survey questions used to identify and describe cancer survivors in national cross‐sectional studies.

Methods

Using publicly available databases, the authors identified national cross‐sectional surveys used in the United States within the past 15 years that included a question on self‐reported history of cancer. After abstracting questions and response items used to identify cancer survivors, they conducted a descriptive analysis.

Results

The authors identified 14 national cross‐sectional surveys, with half administered to the general population and the other half administered to cancer survivors. The most common question used to identify cancer survivors was “Have you ever been told by a doctor or other health professional that you had cancer?” Most surveys had questions asking participants to identify a single cancer type (n = 11), multiple prior cancer diagnoses or types (n = 11), and the time from diagnosis (n = 12). Treatment questions varied from active treatment status to specific treatments received. Questions addressing cancer stage (n = 2), subtypes (n = 1), metastatic status (n = 3), and recurrence (n = 4) were less frequently included.

Conclusions

There is no standard method for assessing self‐reported cancer history, and this limits the ability to distinguish among potentially important subgroups of survivors. Future cross‐sectional surveys that capture nuanced data elements, such as cancer types, stages/subtypes, metastatic/recurrent status, and treatments received, can help to fill important gaps in cancer survivorship research and clinical care.
Impact of physical decontamination methods on zirconia implant surface and subsequent bacterial adhesion: An in‐vitro study
Authors: Tan Nathan Chiang Ping , Miller Catherine M. , Antunes Elsa , Sharma Dileep
Published: October 2021

Objective

To evaluate the effect of routinely used physical decontamination methods on the surface characteristics of zirconia implants and subsequent ability of bacteria to adhere in vitro.

Background

Physical decontamination methods commonly used in peri‐implantitis therapy and routine implant maintenance can potentially alter zirconia implant surfaces.

Methods

Acid‐etched zirconia discs were instrumented with titanium curette (TC), plastic curette, air abrasive device, ultrasonic scaler (US) with stainless steel tip. Following instrumentation, surface topography, and surface elemental composition was analyzed using 3D‐laser scanning microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, respectively. Subsequently, plaque biofilm was cultured on zirconia discs for 48 h and bacterial adhesion assessed using a turbidity test and scanning electron microscopy.

Results

A significant difference in surface roughness was observed between the US and control group (p < 0.05). The US and TC caused gray surface discolouration on zirconia discs due to deposition of metallic residue as confirmed by X‐ray spectroscopy. No significant difference in bacterial adhesion was noted among all treatment groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

TC and US with stainless steel tips should be used with caution due to deposition of metallic residue on the surface. Air abrasive devices and plastic curettes caused minimal surface alterations and are, therefore, safer for zirconia implant decontamination.
Shaping sustainable development: External environmental pressure, exploratory green learning, and radical green innovation
Authors: Cui Rixiao , Wang Juanru
Published: October 2021

Although external environmental pressure has been recognized as an important driver of green innovation, the literature ignores its effect on radical green innovation. Combining theories of organizational learning and transformational leadership, this study explores the relationships among external environmental pressure, exploratory green learning, and radical green innovation, and analyzes the moderating role of green transformational leadership. Considering the political and economic factors in social network, this study focuses on the pressures of environmental regulatory and green market. Data are collected from 282 manufacturing firms in China's strategic emerging industries, hierarchical regression analysis and boostrapping are used to test hypotheses. The results reveal that environmental regulatory pressure and green market pressure have positive effects on exploratory green learning, and exploratory green learning has positive effects on radical green innovation. Exploratory green learning plays a full mediating role in the relationship between environmental regulatory pressure and radical green innovation, and partially mediates the relationship between green market pressure and radical green innovation. Moreover, green transformational leadership has a nonlinear moderating effect on the relationship between exploratory green learning and radical green innovation. This study opens avenues for understanding the relationship between external environmental pressure and raidcal green innovation, which enriches the literature on green innovation and offers practical implications for government and firms.
Thermal Dependence of the Luminescent Properties of Mononuclear TbIII Macrocyclic Complexes
Authors: Fuentealba Pablo , Villagra Danae , Gil Yolimar , Aguilar‐Bolados Héctor , Costa de Santana Ricardo , Gasparotto Gisane , Vega Andrés , Manzur Jorge , Spodine Evgenia
Published: October 2021

A family of six terbium(III) complexes with hexaaza macrocyclic ligands, together with the isostructural yttrium(III) species, is reported and the thermal dependence of the photophysical properties of the terbium(III) complexes is analysed. The coordination number is defined by the anions, nitrate or isothiocyanate, which act as secondary ligands. While complexes with nitrate anions are decacoordinated species, presenting a N6O4 first coordination sphere, complexes derived from isothiocyanate are nonacoordinated with exclusively nitrogen donor atoms. Regarding the optical properties, only the macrocyclic ligands derived from aliphatic amines act as sensitizers for the terbium(III) cations, and the complexes emit in the green region, according to the obtained CIE coordinates. The isothiocyanato ligand plays a detrimental role on the luminescence of the corresponding complexes, since their emission is weaker as compared to that of the nitrato counterparts. The greater achieved thermal sensitivity for one of the studied terbium(III) complexes was 3.2 %K−1 at 300 K.
Exhaustive One‐Step Bridgehead Methylation of Adamantane Derivatives with Tetramethylsilane
Authors: Bonsir Maxime , Davila Christian , Kennedy Alan R. , Geerts Yves
Published: October 2021

A methylation protocol of adamantane derivatives was investigated and optimized using AlCl3 and tetramethylsilane as the methylation agent. Substrates underwent exhaustive methylation of all available bridgehead positions with yields ranging from 62 to 86 %, and up to six methyl groups introduced in one step. Scaling‐up of the reaction was demonstrated by performing the >40 gram‐scale synthesis of 1,3,5,7‐tetramethyladamantane with 62 % yield. For several substrates, rearrangements were observed, as well as cleavage of functional groups or Csp3−Csp2 bonds or even cyclohexyl‐adamantyl bonds. Based on mechanistic studies, it is suggested that a reactive methylation complex is formed from tetramethylsilane and AlCl3. X‐ray diffraction structures of hexamethylated bis‐adamantyls reveal elongation or widening of sp3 carbon bonds between adamantyl moieties to 1.585(3) Å and 125.26(9)° due to repulsive H⋅⋅⋅H contacts.
Sentiment‐dependent impact of funding liquidity shocks on futures market liquidity
Authors: Ryu Doojin , Yu Jinyoung
Published: October 2021

We examine the effect of funding liquidity changes on futures market liquidity, depending on economic sentiment. Futures market liquidity improves following negative funding liquidity shocks, and economic sentiment is an important determinant explaining this relationship. While individuals' trading is most significantly affected by sentiment, its response to funding liquidity shocks remains independent of sentiment effects. Domestic institutions' reactions depend on the sentiment regime; they trade futures contracts more actively as funding liquidity becomes more abundant (scarcer) when sentiment is more pessimistic (optimistic). Foreigners, following negative funding liquidity shocks, generally increase their futures trading, whereas their trading decreases under the extremely pessimistic sentiment. Domestic banks and pension funds provide liquidity to the futures market even when sentiment is pessimistic.
Feeder 9 Gas Pipeline Replacement Tunnel – Achieving a world record for pipe insertion of a new gas pipeline within a tunnel beneath the river Humber (UK)
Authors: Jukes Simon , Schenk Stephan
Published: October 2021

Since December 2020, at a pressure of 70 bar, up to 25 % of Britain's gas requirements was flowing through the new Feeder 9 gas pipeline, which installed in a 4.9 km long tunnel 30 m below the River Humber. With the insertion of the new pipeline, the Humber Pipeline Joint Venture (HPT JV), consisting of the companies Porr, Skanska and A. Hak, achieved a major milestone when it was officially recognised as a Guinness World Record for the longest hydraulically‐inserted pipe at 4,963.7 m long. Replacing the existing pipeline was an absolute necessity due to the shifting river bed which, over the years, had exposed sections of the pipeline threatening the supply to the customers in the UK. The solution adopted by the client, National Grid to provide a long‐term permanent solution, was for the construction of a segmental lined tunnel with an inner diameter of 3.65 m accommodating the new 1050 mm diameter welded steel gas pipe. The tunnel was excavated with a 4.4 m diameter mix shield type TBM. The small diameter together with the length, without intermediate access including a tidal range in the Humber estuary of up to 6.4 m and an overburden on the tunnel of 10 m below the river bed resulted in a number of challenges. The installation of the concrete‐coated steel pipeline was particularly high risk. The individual strings ranging from 595 to 620 m in length and weighing about 850 t, were pushed consecutively into the water‐filled tunnel employing two hydraulic thrusters in just 18 days.
Erkennen geotechnischer Vorgänge an der Ortsbrust als Schlüssel zum erfolgreichen Tunnelvortrieb
Authors: Steiner Walter
Published: October 2021

When tunnelling with a TBM (Tunnel Boring Machine) in rock and soil, mostly the machine is described and often reduced to a slogan. Such descriptions say little about geotechnical processes at the tunnel face that are key to the success of tunnel driving and must be considered when selecting a tunnelling system. In soil tunnels the tunnel face must be safely supported and extracting material must be possible. For a slurry shield the slurry must not escape and pressure must act on the face. In the literature mostly bentonite content is considered. With an Earth‐Pressure balance machine the soil has to have characteristics that it can be remoulded and transformed in a mass of adequate consistency with mechanical means, adding water and additives such that this mass can support the face and be extracted. Long‐term experience shows that the fine content and polymers are also important factors. Flow channels (pores) in open gravel may be clogged, and the face supported by seepage forces. Also, the drag forces in the slurry circuit are increased and the operation of the slurry circuit became more stable. Rates of advance exceeding 10 m/day were achieved with a 11.6 m slurry shield. The limited depth of penetration of the slurry could be determined in‐situ. For fine‐grained soils the characteristics of the fines are crucial and are described by the Atterberg limits. Soil mechanics strength properties may be vastly different.
Linienkreuz U2xU5 – Tunnelbaumaßnahmen am Bauabschnitt U2/22
Authors: Suchmann Christoph , Fuchs Christian
Published: October 2021

The next expansion phase of the U2xU5 intersection is currently under construction in the inner districts of the City of Vienna. The construction lot U2/22 Rathaus (City Hall) takes place in the inner districts 1, 7 and 8. Three shafts are the main focus of the construction works at Friedrich‐Schmidt‐Platz, directly behind the Vienna City Hall as well as a shaft with extensive works on the building of the University of Vienna and another shaft at Josefstädter Straße. Due to difficult and changing geology, different support measures from full face tunnel excavation to tunnelling under a roof of jet grouting piles will be used. In addition, measures such as groundwater drainage, structural improvements of buildings and settlement compensations are necessary in advance.
Alternatives Vortriebskonzept – Verlagerung des Baugrundrisikos beim Tunnel Rudersdorf
Authors: Sellner Peter Johann , Pacher Wolfgang , Weinmar Wolfgang , Moser Herwig , Monsberger Yvonne
Published: October 2021

The approx. 3 km long twin‐tube Rudersdorf tunnel is part of the Fürstenfeld Motorway S7. In addition to jet grouting and steel pipe umbrella sections, the excavation is mainly carried out according to the NATM. After the contract had been signed, the contractor proposed a value engineering concept including a stepped (almost) full excavation with a short ring closure. This concept avoids jet grouting sections and reduces sections with steel pipe umbrellas and the temporary top heading invert. A fair risk transfer between both contractual partner enables the full technical and economic potential of the project to be released and guarantees a win‐win situation. The modified construction methodology consequently also requires a change of tasks and responsibility for the contractual partners for the project. This paper highlights the main topics of the contractual modifications required and explains the handling of the ground risk with examples.
Injektionsstoffe im Tunnelausbruchmaterial – Abfall oder Ersatzbaustoff?
Authors: Tintelnot Götz , Koch Michael
Published: October 2021

This paper examines the possibility of using excavated material with system‐related admixtures as a substitute construction material, considering the current rules and regulations in the field of landfilling or disposal. In addition to conventional injections with bentonite‐ and cement‐containing suspensions, which always require longer setting times and are relevant for classification during disposal with sulfate values in the eluate, fast‐setting multicomponent resins are suitable for filling or consolidation, e.g. fast‐reacting, high‐foaming silicate resins, polyurethane resins for stopping water ingress, or rubber‐elastic, versatile 3‐component acrylate gels. However, the discussion is currently focusing on tunnelling compounds to which foams or resins have been added and which, according to Systal's ”system‐related admixtures“, are to be remunerated as special services. This paper deals with the question how to deal with the excavated material contaminated with organic matter under soil protection law and waste law. On the basis of the results of laboratory tests, the question arises as to whether tunnel excavation with a few percent of organic, system‐related admixtures would not make an excellent substitute building material in the sense of the draft substitute building materials ordinance.
Erstellung eines Gefrierkörpers als Bauhilfsmaßnahme für einen Tunnelvortrieb unter dem Hauptbahnhof Bern
Authors: Klösges Simon , Müller Michael
Published: October 2021

In the course of the planned underground extension of the central station in Bern, an access tunnel had to be constructed from an existing shaft. The first 60 m of this tunnel cross through unstable, water‐bearing and unconsolidated rock, and run under existing railway tracks. Thyssen Schachtbau GmbH has been commissioned the contract to carry out an artificial ground freezing measure to enhance the realization of the tunnel construction. The horizontal directional drilling work within the shaft as well as the construction and operation of the freezing plant were carried out in 2020 in a very confined space, and parallel to the ongoing operation of the train station. In order to ensure sufficient water saturation and thus the freezability of the unconsolidated rock, artificial ground irrigation procedure was operated. After completion of the predefined frost body, the tunnel was successfully and safely driven from the shaft into the bedrock.
Umgang mit dem Baugrundrisiko in der Schweiz, Erfahrungsbericht zum Vortrieb einer Mix‐Schild‐TBM auf der Baustelle Eppenbergtunnel
Authors: Weh Markus
Published: October 2021

On the mix‐shield TBM excavation of the Eppenberg tunnel, unexpected conditions were encountered in both the rock and soil excavations, which resulted in a modified execution of the project. In this case, the openly formulated contract made it possible to take advantage of improvements in the ground and to manage unexpected system behaviour with the right measures in such a way that economical and time‐saving excavation was possible. In all three examples presented in this paper, time is one of the key success factors, because recurring processes result in feedback processes that change the system behaviour more and more rapidly as time goes on. In order to reduce the resulting additional costs and time losses, it is necessary to understand what is happening on site, then evaluate, test and check the possible measures, and finally decide on their implementation in a timely manner. At Eppenberg tunnel, this enabled unexpectedly adverse system behaviour to be overcome in two cases without any major loss of construction time. This was only possible because the responsible persons from all parties involved were able to discuss the situation together and make decisions at short notice.
Innovative slurry solutions for demanding TBM drives through soil with high permeability in a dense urban area
Authors: Hochart Arnaud , Vialle Denis
Published: October 2021

The extension of the Metro B line in Lyon represents a technical challenge combining difficulties with very few equivalents in pressurised TBM history. Alluviums with wide porosity and high permeability (up to 10–2 m/s) imply a risk of slurry loss leading to ground instabilities. To mitigate geological risks without using heavy ground treatment, two lines of research were followed:

i) A slurry development program, aiming to define and validate technical mud formulae reducing the losses and ensuring the continuous confinement pressure. Two types of innovative slurries were to be defined, a ”technical“ one for horizons with high permeability, and an ”emergency mud“ to secure the tunnel and constructions in the event of a sudden slurry loss.

ii) The use of a variably density TBM to use these technical slurries with a classic and an independent auxiliary hydraulic circuit. In addition, an embedded emergency mud supply was added to the TBM. The first phase implemented the slurry development lab, which consisted in the characterisation of a wide range of products entering in the slurry composition such as bentonite, mineral or organic clogging agents, polymers, gels, etc.. The slurry formulae were then tested under pressure in permeameters of two different sizes. Solutions clogging the porosity and sustaining mud and air pressure have been developed. The execution phase proved, that the developed solutions were giving the expected results regarding controlling slurry losses in the ground, maintaining front confinement pressure and reducing surface settlement below expected values in a dense urban area.
Erste Projekterfahrungen mit Variable‐Density‐TVMs in Europa – Erweiterung der U‐Bahnlinie B in Lyon
Authors: Bäppler Karin , Battistoni Frédéric , Burger Werner , Flora Matthias , Schwärzel Matthias
Published: October 2021

Globalisation and advancing urbanisation around the globe have a significant influence on market dynamics in tunnelling. The expansion of infrastructures in urban and regional centres calls for the construction of new transport, supply, and disposal systems to link individual economic centres. Innovative technologies in mechanised tunnelling, such as the now well‐established Variable Density TBM, are making a significant contribution to the safe and low‐settlement construction of sustainable tunnel infrastructure projects in extremely challenging and variable ground conditions. In this publication, the current developments and design features as well as the application areas of the Variable Density Technology are addressed, based on one of the first project experiences in Europe, in Lyon.
Oberflächensetzung im urbanen Raum – Auswertung der Oberflächensetzungen an Gebäuden infolge komplexer unterirdischer Bauabläufe
Authors: Höser Sebastian , Bathaeian Iman
Published: October 2021

To relieve congestion on the S‐Bahn main line in Munich (urban railway), a second main line is being built over a length of 10 km, with more than 7 km of tunnels and three new underground stations. These new stations at Hauptbahnhof, Marienhof and Ostbahnhof each have a length of about 250 m and are located at depths of up to 45 m. The stations mostly have a central staircase, which will be constructed using the top‐down method with building pits enclosed by diaphragm walls. The platform tubes subsequently constructed using NATM, with a 40 m wide cross‐section consisting of five tubes, have an overall excavation cross‐section of approx. 450 m2. This paper presents the evaluation of the calculated building settlements due to a construction process comprising groundwater drawdown, building pit construction, platform tubes constructed using NATM, traffic tunnels constructed using TBM, and the exploration and rescue tunnel located between the two traffic tunnels, using the Marienhof West station as an example. To perform the evaluation it is necessary to superpose all settlements arising from the different construction stages for each structure, which in some case are calculated across planners and construction sections. From these superposed calculated settlements, the corresponding angular distortions are calculated according to the type of curvature, i.e. concave type or spandrel type of settlement, and compared with the permissible limit values.
Die A26 Linzer Autobahn – Ein neues Wahrzeichen für Linz
Authors: Sempelmann Franz , Matt Kajetan , Konrad Frank
Published: October 2021

The A26 not only relieves the central part of the road network in Linz but also allows the river Danube to be crossed by means of a 300 m long bridge, anchored in the rock slopes which form the banks of the Danube. The elements of the 1st phase are the Danube bridge and two underground motorway junctions, Danube North and South, with excavation cross‐sections of up to 375 m2 and the tight radii of the motorway on‐ramps. In addition to the elevated location of the main portals, the river Danube, the infrastructure facilities and the built‐up area take space in the valley cause unfavourable conditions. Besides these conditions, urban planning requirements have an effect on the realization of the construction project. The excavated material from the tunnel is transported off‐site by ship. The project conditions such as the high number of portals, the noise‐reflecting effect of the ”Danube gorge“ and the low overburden require substantial measures to limit and monitor the immissions.
Mehrwerte im maschinellen Tunnelvortrieb durch intelligente Systeme
Authors: Flora Matthias , Weiser Torsten , Zech Philipp , Fontana Adrian , Ruepp Anna , Bergmeister Konrad
Published: October 2021

Both conventional and mechanized tunnelling have a fantastic tradition. The technical progress of the industry moved in step with social developments, characterized by crises and leaps in innovation. In the field of mechanized tunnelling, the driving force for some years now has been the desire to excavate heterogeneous construction sites with changes in tunnelling modes without the need for costly conversions underground. In addition, two innovation surges are currently discernible. On the one hand, the demands on innovation and technology management again follow a societal challenge, namely the goal of climate neutrality. On the other hand, digital processes and tools are changing all areas of our lives at an enormous speed, which means that the construction industry will also undergo a transformation in the coming years. Automation, robotics, the Internet of Things, machine learning, or artificial intelligence are all gradually encroaching on current processes and methods.

Tunnelling jobsites in general, and largescale construction projects in particular, are inherently complex in their operation and are subject to major challenges. Current and future developments will add another necessity, namely the integration of digital applications into an overall system consisting of people and machines while enabling high‐performance construction processes. This calls for intelligent systems.
Die schwedische innerstädtische Tunnelbaupraxis aus der Sicht eines mitteleuropäischen Planers
Authors: Radončić Nedim , Vesely Jan
Published: October 2021

Amberg Engineering was involved in numerous subsurface in frastructure projects in Sweden, predominantly in the Stockholm metropolitan area. Our rock mechanical and engineering expertise represented and represents our key contribution to the projects, while we came in touch with valuable, and sometimes very different tunnelling approaches. While certain technical solutions still appear exotic, majority of them have to be valued as correct and consequent answers to the predominant geological conditions in Scandinavia. The present publication will show our experience based on one case study. Special attention is given to rock mass characterisation, design processes and tunnelling philosophy. The issues of support, water ingress control and vibration control are treated in detail, and a comparison with our local practice is presented. The paper attempts to deliver an objective treatise and honest presentation of our experience, and a summary of ”lessons learned“.
Genome sequencing and molecular characterisation of XDR Acinetobacter baumannii reveal complexities in resistance: Novel combination of sulbactam–durlobactam holds promise for therapeutic intervention
Authors: Naha Aniket , Vijayakumar Saranya , Lal Binesh , Shankar Baby A. , Chandran Suriya , Ramaiah Sudha , Veeraraghavan Balaji , Anbarasu Anand
Published: October 2021

Emerging nosocomial strains of Acinetobacter baumannii are of recent concern as they are expressing extensive drug resistance (XDR). Using whole‐genome sequencing and molecular characterisation analysis, the current study reveals the presence of carbapenemase genes in 92.86% of studied Indian isolates. These included blaOXA‐51, blaOXA‐23, blaOXA‐58, and blaNDM genes, with over a third expressing dual carbapenemase genes. As per the MLST scheme, IC2Oxf/CC2Pas was the predominant clone, with 57.14% isolates belonging to this lineage. The presence of these carbapenemase genes resulted in sulbactam (SUL) resistance (MIC: 16–256 µg/ml) in all of the studied isolates. The efficacy of durlobactam (DUR), a novel β‐lactamase inhibitor that also inhibits PBP2 was assessed through in silico intermolecular interaction analysis. Several nonsynonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms were identified in PBP2 (G264S, I108V, S259T) and PBP3 (A515V, T526S) sequences. Minimal variations were recorded in the protein backbone dynamics in active‐site motifs of wild‐type and mutants, which correlated with negligible binding energy fluctuations for the PBP3‐SUL (−5.85 ± 0.04 kcal/mol) and PBP2‐DUR (−5.16 ± 0.66 kcal/mol) complexes. Furthermore, higher binding affinities and low inhibition constants were noted in OXA23‐DUR (−7.36 kcal/mol; 4.01 µM), OXA58‐DUR (−6.44 kcal/mol; 19.07 µM), and NDM‐DUR (−6.82 kcal/mol; 10.01 µM) complexes when compared with the conventional drugs avibactam and aztreonam. Stable interaction profiles of DUR with carbapenemases can possibly restore SUL activity against both PBP3WT and PBP3MTs. The study establishes the efficacy of the novel SUL–DUR combination as a successful treatment strategy in combating emerging XDR strains of A. baumannii.