bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Throughput Yeast Aging Analysis for Cryptococcus (HYAAC) microfluidic device streamlines aging studies in Cryptococcus neoformans
Authors: Orner Erika P. , Zhang Pengchao , Jo Myeong C. , Bhattacharya Somanon , Qin Lidong , Fries Bettina C.
Published: July 2019

Cryptococcus neoformans (Cn) is a deadly fungal pathogen responsible for ~ 180,000 deaths per year and despite effective antifungals, treatment failure and resistance to antifungals are increasingly problematic. Aging and age-related phenotypes are prominent virulence traits that contribute to the resilience of Cn to host responses and antifungals. Traditional methods to study aging in Cn are expensive, inefficient and in need of improvement. Here, we demonstrate the development and use of a High-Throughput Yeast Aging Analysis for Cryptococcus (HYAAC) microfluidic device to better study aging and age-associated genes in Cn. Compared to traditional methods, the HYAAC is superior in its efficiency to isolate, manipulate and observe old cells for analysis. It allows for the trapping and tracking of individual cells over the course of their lifespan, allowing for more precise measurements of lifespan, tracking of age-related phenotypes with age, and a more high-throughput ability to investigate genes associated with aging.
SNP discovery and functional annotation in the Panax japonicus var. major transcriptome
Authors: Li Jian , Bai Ding-Ping , Zhang Xi-Feng
Published: July 2019

Due to the lack of a Panax japonicus var. major reference genome, we assembled a reference transcriptome from P. japonicus C. A. Mey transcriptome sequencing data, and 203 283 unigenes were obtained.
Dual chemosensor for the rapid detection of mercury(ii) pollution and biothiols
Authors: Gholami Mahnaz D. , Manzhos Sergei , Sonar Prashant , Ayoko Godwin A. , Izake Emad L.
Published: July 2019

A new benzothiazole azo dye [(E)-1-((6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazole-2-yl)diazenyl)naphthalene-2,6-diol] (also known as “BAN”), has been synthesised and used as a chemosensor for the rapid and selective detection of mercury(ii) ions in water.
Unexpected diradical character and large magnetic spin coupling in modified porphyrins induced by inverting pyrrole rings
Authors: Wang Qi , Song Meiyu , Song Xinyu , Bu Yuxiang
Published: July 2019

Porphyrin derivatives with inverted pyrrole rings could exhibit unique diradical character, and their relevant electronic and magnetic properties have great application prospects in terms of electronic devices.
Defective Fe3+ self-doped spinel ZnFe2O4 with oxygen vacancies for highly efficient photoelectrochemical water splitting
Authors: Wang Jianmin , Wang Yunan , Xv Xinchao , Chen Yan , Yang Xi , Zhou Jun , Li Song , Cao Feng , Qin Gaowu
Published: July 2019

Defective Fe3+ self-doped spinel ZnFe2O4 with abundant oxygen vacancies exhibits largely enhanced photoelectrochemical performance.
New salicylaldoximato-borate ligands resulting from anion hydrolysis and their respective copper and iron complexes
Authors: Woodhouse Sidney S. , De Silva D. Nirosha T. , Jameson Geoffrey B. , Cutler Daniel J. , Sanz Sergio , Brechin Euan K. , Davies Casey G. , Jameson Guy N. L. , Plieger Paul G.
Published: July 2019

The magnetism, Mössbauer, and structural properties of a series of borate appended ligands are described.
Synthetic, structural and reaction chemistry of N-heterocyclic germylene and stannylene compounds featuringN-boryl substituents
Authors: Kristinsdóttir Lilja , Oldroyd Nicola L. , Grabiner Rachel , Knights Alastair W. , Heilmann Andreas , Protchenko Andrey V. , Niu Haoyu , Kolychev Eugene L. , Campos Jesús , Hicks Jamie , Christensen Kirsten E. , Aldridge Simon
Published: July 2019

N-Heterocyclic germylenes/stannylenes featuring diazaborolyl groups as the N-substituents have been investigated.
Fe and Zn in vitro bioavailability in relation to antinutritional factors in biofortified beans subjected to different processes
Authors: Brigide Priscila , de Toledo Nataly Maria Viva , López-Nicolás Rubén , Ros Gaspar , Frontela Saseta Carmen , de Carvalho Raquel Vieira
Published: July 2019

The present work evaluated the effect of different processes in relation to mineral content and its bioavailability, as well as the effect of phytate and oxalate contents in biofortified beans.
Infrared tunable, two colour-band photodetectors on flexible platforms using 0D/2D PbS–MoS2 hybrids
Authors: Mukherjee S. , Jana S. , Sinha T. K. , Das S. , Ray S. K.
Published: July 2019

Flexible photodetectors were fabricated on a PET platform, exhibiting a two-colour band photoresponse, besides infrared tunability with high responsivity and detectivity.
Investigating the mechanical properties of GeSn nanowires
Authors: Kosmaca Jelena , Meija Raimonds , Antsov Mikk , Kunakova Gunta , Sondors Raitis , Iatsunskyi Igor , Coy Emerson , Doherty Jessica , Biswas Subhajit , Holmes Justin D. , Erts Donats
Published: July 2019

Mechanical resonance and bending tests on crystalline GeSn nanowires revealed size-dependent Young's moduli and bending strengths close to theoretical values.
Ca2GeB2O7 and Ca1.78Cd0.22GeB2O7: two acentric borogermanates with a melilite-like structure and short ultraviolet cutoff edge
Authors: Tang Ru-Ling , Hu Chun-Li , Wu Bao-Lin , Chen Yan , Mao Jiang-Gao
Published: July 2019

Herein, two new borogermanates obtained by combining BO4 with the GeO4 tetrahedron exhibit short UV absorption edges and display second-harmonic generation signals.
Tunable circularly polarized luminescence from molecular assemblies of chiral AIEgens
Authors: Song Fengyan , Cheng Yanhua , Liu Qiuming , Qiu Zijie , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Lin Liangbin , Yang Fafu , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: July 2019

A tunable CPL response is achieved through regulating the aggregated structures of AIEgens in solution and solid states. Interestingly, DPCE-ECh exhibits a smectic C* phase with a high dissymmetry factor (gCD = −0.20 and glum = +0.38).
Modulation of molecular orientation enabling high photovoltaic performance of block copolymer nanostructures
Authors: Xu Zhanwen , Lin Jiaping , Zhang Liangshun , Tian Xiaohui , Wang Liquan
Published: July 2019

In this work, by means of theoretical simulations we show that more than 150% improvement in the photovoltaic performance of donor–acceptor block copolymer thin films could be achieved through regulating the molecular orientation.
Copper catalysis for highly selective aerobic oxidation of alcohols to aldehydes/ketones
Authors: Zhai Di , Ma Shengming
Published: July 2019

A general and practical room temperature aerobic oxidation of different types of alcohols using Cu(NO3)2·3H2O and TEMPO or 4-HO-TEMPO as the catalysts forming aldehydes or ketones with an excellent selectivity has been developed.
Anti-oxidative effects of catechins and theaflavins on glutamate-induced HT22 cell damage
Authors: He Jinting , Xu Lei , Yang Le , Sun Caixia
Published: July 2019

EGCG and TF3 attenuate glutamate-induced ROS production and cell apoptosis.
Effect of PVC film pretreatment on performance and lamination of wood-plastic composite plywood
Authors: Li Zhihui , Qi Xinglai , Gao Yanlong , Zhou Yonghui , Chen Nairong , Zeng Qinzhi , Fan Mizi , Rao Jiuping
Published: July 2019

This paper investigates the perforation treatment of polyvinylchloride (PVC) plastic films and their plywood composites.
New insights into the crystallization of polymorphic materials: from real-time serial crystallography to luminescence analysis
Authors: Lindenberg P. , Arana L. Ruiz , Mahnke L. K. , Rönfeldt P. , Heidenreich N. , Doungmo G. , Guignot N. , Bean R. , Chapman H. N. , Dierksmeyer D. , Knoska J. , Kuhn M. , Garrevoet J. , Mariani V. , Oberthuer D. , Pande K. , Stern S. , Tolstikova A. , White T. A. , Beyerlein K. R. , Terraschke H.
Published: July 2019

This article unravels reaction conditions governing the formation of polymorphic structures in solution down to the single particle level applying, for instance, unprecedented real-time serial crystallography measurements during a synthesis process.
A new reflowing strategy based on lithiophilic substrates towards smooth and stable lithium metal anodes
Authors: Song Rensheng , Ge Yuqiang , Wang Bo , Lv Qiang , Wang Fei , Ruan Tingting , Wang Dianlong , Dou Shixue , Liu Huakun
Published: July 2019

Reflowing method has been introduced to smooth the surface of lithium metal, and stabilize the interface between electrode and electrolyte through modification of the solid electrolyte interface film.
Integration of photoelectrochemical devices and luminescent solar concentrators based on giant quantum dots for highly stable hydrogen generation
Authors: Liu Guiju , Sun Baofen , Li Hongliang , Wang Yiqian , Zhao Haiguang
Published: July 2019

Hydrogen generation from water under sunlight illumination is the key to construct a sustainable and clean energy system.
Self-assembled multiferroic perovskite–spinel nanocomposite thin films: epitaxial growth, templating and integration on silicon
Authors: Kim Dong Hun , Ning Shuai , Ross Caroline A.
Published: July 2019

The recent progress on self-assembled epitaxial nanocomposites on silicon or templated substrates for low cost and large area devices.
Cs2AgBiBr6−xClx solid solutions – band gap engineering with halide double perovskites
Authors: Gray Matthew B. , McClure Eric T. , Woodward Patrick M.
Published: July 2019

The halide double perovskite solid solution Cs2AgBiBr6−xClx has been investigated and found to exhibit a band gap that increases from 2.2 eV to 2.8 eV as the Cl− content increases, with an upward deviation from Vegard's law when x > 5.
MiRNA-144-3p inhibits high glucose induced cell proliferation through suppressing FGF16
Authors: Chen Cuimin , Zhao Chunyan , Gu Cao , Cui Xiao , Wu Jinhui
Published: July 2019

As a major cause of blindness, diabetic retinopathy (DR) is often found in the developed countries. Our previous study identified a down-regulated miRNA: miR-144-3p in response to hyperglycemia. The present study aims to investigate the role of miR-144-3p in proliferation of microvascular epithelial cells. Endothelial cells were treated with different concentrations of glucose, after which miR-144-3p were detected with real-time PCR assay. MiR-144-3p mimics or inhibitors were used to increase or knockdown the level of this miRNA. Western blotting assay and ELISA assay were used to measure the expression and concentration of VEGF protein. 5-Bromo-2-deoxyUridine (BrdU) labeled cell cycle assay was used to detect cells in S phase. MiRNA targets were predicted by using a TargetScan tool, and were further verified by luciferase reporter assay. In the present study, we focussed on a significantly down-regulated miRNA, miR-144-3p, and investigated its role in high glucose (HG) induced cell proliferation. Our data showed that miR-144-3p mimics significantly inhibited HG induced cell proliferation and reduced the percentage of cells in S phase. HG induced up-regulation of VEGF was also prohibited by miR-144-3p mimics. Through wound-healing assay, we found that miR-144-3p suppressed cell migration after HG treatments. Moreover, we predicted and proved that fibroblast growth factor (FGF)16 is a direct target of miR-144-3p. Finally, miR-144-3p attenuated HG induced MAPK activation. In conclusion, we demonstrated that miR-144-3p inhibited high glucose-induced cell proliferation through suppressing FGF16 and MAPK signaling pathway, suggesting a possible role of miR-144-FGF16 in the development of DR.
Mitigation of frequency stability issues in low inertia power systems using synchronous compensators and battery energy storage systems
Authors: Mosca Carmelo , Arrigo Francesco , Mazza Andrea , Bompard Ettore , Carpaneto Enrico , Chicco Gianfranco , Cuccia Paolo
Published: July 2019

The inertia of power systems is a key aspect of frequency dynamics and stability. The increasing penetration of non‐synchronous generation reduces the available inertia and makes it fluctuating during the day depending on the online units. This causes problems for grid operators, particularly in relatively small power systems. The present work examines the impact of decreasing inertia using an aggregate model based on the swing equation, considering future lower inertia scenarios and the implementation of the current protection schemes. The frequency stability of the system is assessed by considering the reference incident, i.e. the loss of the largest operating unit in under‐ and over‐frequency cases. New solutions to balance the grid are addressed and compared, considering the technical impacts of synchronous compensators and battery energy storage systems (BESSs) operated with a new equivalent saturation logic. The model is tested and validated using the real data of a small insular power system (Sardinia Island, Italy), outlining the importance of the high‐voltage direct current and of the BESS control strategies to guarantee the frequency stability of the power system.
Realtime dehazing using colour uniformity principle
Authors: Kumar Himanshu , Gupta Sumana , Venkatesh K. Subramanian
Published: July 2019

Dehazing is an important process as it can significantly improve the performance of computer vision applications in outdoor environments. The two main requirements that an online dehazing system demands are low processing time and high visual range. The authors present a novel dehazing algorithm based on colour uniformity principle (CUP) which meets the desired requirements of a realtime implementation. Estimation of atmospheric scattering parameter and transmission map forms the key step in dehazing problem. At first, the authors use CUP to generate the transmission map and refine it further by Fast Guided Filter. They estimate the atmospheric scattering parameter with the help of the estimated transmission map. Experimental results show that the quality of dehazed output, produced in real‐time using the proposed method, is comparable with the results achieved by the state of the art techniques. The proposed dehazing method produces reliable dehazed output in varying haze conditions, unlike current methods.
Hybrid CBIR method using statistical, DWT‐Entropy and POPMV‐based feature sets
Authors: Latha D. , Jacob Vetha Raj Y.
Published: July 2019

Content‐based image retrieval (CBIR) is an image retrieval technique that can retrieve images by matching its feature set values. This research focuses on a novel CBIR method namely hybrid CBIR method using statistical, Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT)‐Entropy and Peak‐oriented Octal Pattern‐derived Majority Voting (POPMV)‐based feature sets (CBIR_SWPOPMV) to efficiently extract the relevant colour images from the colour image dataset. The doctrine of the proposed method is influenced by a novel texture descriptor namely POPMV which is an octal pattern based on the histogram peak information, to bring about a majority voting‐based feature set and three histogram‐based feature sets. Furthermore, to improve the retrieval accuracy, the DWT‐based Entropy feature set and the statistical feature set are also included. Finally, the Euclidean distance‐based matching process brings more favourable relevant images with respect to the query image. The proposed methodology is experimentally compared with the existing recent CBIR versions by using seven standard databases such as Corel‐1k, USPTex, MIT‐VisTex, KTH‐TIPS, KTH‐TIPS2a, KTH‐TIPS2a, Colored Brodatz and a user‐contributed database named DB_VEG.
Objective estimation of subjective image quality assessment using multi‐parameter prediction
Authors: Maksimović‐Moićević Sanja , Lukač Željko , Temerinac Miodrag
Published: July 2019

Objective evaluation of a subjective image quality assessment plays a significant role in the various image processing applications, such as compression, interpolation and noise reduction. The subjective image quality assessment does not only depend on some objective measurable artefacts, but also on image content and kind of distortions. Thus, a multi‐parameter prediction of the objective image quality assessment is proposed in this study. The prediction parameters are found minimising the mean square error related to the known subjective image quality measure (DMOS). This approach includes mostly used image quality metrics (peak signal‐to‐noise ratio, multi‐scale structural similarity image measure, feature similarity image measure, video quality measure) and two‐dimensional image quality metrics (2D IQM). The proposed multi‐parameter prediction has been verified on the test image database (LIVE) for compression, noise and blur distortions with available subjective image quality measures (DMOS). More reliable estimations are obtained using multi‐parameter prediction instead of only one measure. The best results are reached when an image content indicator is combined with the 2D IQM measure separately for different kinds of distortions.
Visual saliency object detection using sparse learning
Authors: Nasiripour Reza , Farsi Hassan , Mohamadzadeh Sajad
Published: July 2019

In many applications in order to recognise the relationship between user and computer, the position at which the user looks should be detected. To this end, a salient object should be extracted that is attracted to the attention of the viewer. In this study, a new method is proposed to extract the object saliency map, which is based on learning automata and sparse algorithms. In the proposed method, after decomposition of an image to its superpixels, eight features (namely three features in red–green–blue colour space, coalition, central bias, rotation feature, brightness, and colour difference) are extracted. Then the extracted features are normalised to zero mean and unit variance. In this study, K‐means singular‐value decomposition is used to integrate the extracted features. The performance of the proposed method is compared with that of 20 other methods by applying four new databases, including MSRA‐100, ECSSD, MSRA‐10K, and Pascal‐S. The obtained results show that the proposed method has a better performance compared to the other methods with regard to the prediction of the salient object.
Effective low‐cost solution using cascaded connection of two modified notch filters to mitigate the second and third harmonic currents in single‐phase dual‐stage half‐bridge microinverter
Authors: Vongkoon Pokkrong , Liutanakul Pisit , Wiwatcharagoses Nophadon
Published: July 2019

On the grid side, the half‐bridge topology of the microinverter is of interest for solar rooftop applications because of its high efficiency, low component count, and cost‐effectiveness. However, it has an inherent double‐line frequency ripple voltage on the dc‐link, which causes the injection of a third‐order harmonic current when the voltage control loop is closed. Furthermore, in practice, different average voltages or different capacitances of the two capacitors at the dc‐link produce a second‐order harmonic current that flows into the grid. In this paper, the analytical details of these harmonics are comprehensively described, and a simple and effective low‐cost technique using the cascaded connection of two modified notch filters is proposed in the voltage control loop to mitigate their effects. The simulation and experimental results of a 300 W microinverter indicate that the proposed filters represent an effective low‐cost solution and perform well in accordance with the IEEE 1547 standard, even if the capacitances at the dc‐link are mismatched by 20%. Besides, the prototype is tested when occurring of the changing +1% of the line frequency, or appearing of the distorted waveform of grid voltage with the composition of 6% of fifth‐order harmonic.
High step‐up isolated dc–dc converter with single input and double output and soft‐switching performance for renewable energy applications
Authors: Yari Keyvan , Shahalami Seyed Hamid , Mojallali Hamed
Published: July 2019

A single‐input double‐output dc–dc isolated high step‐up dc–dc converter with soft‐switching feature is presented in this study. The concept is to utilise quadrupler technique to reach high voltage gain without large duty cycle. Additionally, soft‐switching operation for all power switches and diodes is realised to reduce overall power losses and increase power conversion efficiency over a broad range. Furthermore, the leakage inductance energy of transformer is recycled to output with an active clamp circuit. Thus, the voltage stress on main switch is reduced and a low‐voltage‐rated metal–oxide–semiconductor field‐effect transistors (with low ) can be used. Moreover, low input current ripple feature is helpful to lengthen life time of renewable energy power sources. Finally, the analysis is described in detail and performance of the proposed converter has been verified through experimental results.
Active damping method based self‐adjust notch filter for current source converter
Authors: Zhong Cheng , Chen Qiang , Jing Zhou
Published: July 2019

Inductor–capacitor (LC) filter in current source converter (CSC) exits resonance peak, which result in reducing control stability and amplifying harmonic component near resonance frequency. This study proposed a simply self‐adjust notch filter active damping method for CSC. A notch filter is inserted into control loop to damp the control gain at resonance frequency, no need of additional sensor. The grid inductance varies as power system operating conditions change, which deteriorates notch filter damping performance because of resonance frequency changing. The harmonic impedance estimation method is used in the paper to estimate grid inductance and actively adjust notch filter centre frequency. Both simulation and experimental results verified the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed method.
Building homogeneous nanostructure in Ni(OH)2/MWCNTs composite by electrostatic attraction
Authors: Shi Min , Li Yanhong , Cui Hongtao
Published: July 2019

A facile strategy for the preparation of composites with homogeneous distribution of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in Ni(OH)2 was proposed. The electrostatic attraction between positively charged Ni(OH)2 monolayer nanosheets and negatively charged MWCNTs was utilised to self‐assemble the composites. The results of electrochemical measurement on the composite containing 30 wt% MWCNTs indicated that the homogeneous composition of MWCNTs in composite significantly reduced the electrical resistance and promoted the electrochemical utilisation of Ni(OH)2. As a result, the composite presented high electrochemical performance: having specific capacitance of 1568.8 F g−1 at low current density of 2.4 A g−1 and keeping a relatively high specific capacitance of 781.8 F g−1 at high current density of 81.7 A g−1. Based on the results in this works, it is hoped that the adopted strategy could provide a promising idea for the preparation of composites with homogeneous distribution of individual components.
Functionalised polymer brushes grafted onto nanosiliceous support for removal of cadmium (II) in environmental and biological samples
Authors: Ghoroghi Atefeh , Ahmad Panahi Homayon , Arjmandpour Saba , Moniri Elham
Published: July 2019

The experiments in this work were based on the use of grafted polymers on glass nanoparticles for eliminating cadmium ions from environmental and biological samples. Glass nanoparticles (NPs) were modified with (3‐mercaptopropyl) trimetoxisilane followed by the graft polymerisation of N,N‐dimethylacrylamide and allylamine and then with bromoacetic acid. The grafted polymers on the glass NPs were characterised by Fourier transform infra‐red spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and elemental analysis. Surface morphology was investigated via transmission electron microscopy. The optimum pH for cadmium adsorption and the adsorption capacity of the nanoadsorbent were 6.5 and 46.70 mg g−1, respectively. The Langmuir, Freundlich and Redlich‐Peterson models were employed to analyse the equilibrium adsorption data of Cd (II) on the grafted glass NPs. Finally, the grafted glass NPs were utilised for Cd (II) elimination from the biological and environmental samples.
CSI 2264: Simultaneous optical and X-ray variability in the pre-main sequence stars of NGC 2264
Authors: Guarcello M. G. , Flaccomio E. , Micela G. , Argiroffi C. , Sciortino S. , Venuti L. , Stauffer J. , Rebull L. , Cody A. M.
Published: July 2019

Context. Pre-main sequence stars are variable sources. In diskless stars this variability is mainly due to the rotational modulation of dark photospheric spots and active regions, as in main sequence stars even if associated with a stronger magnetic activity.

Aims. We aim at analyzing the simultaneous optical and X-ray variability in these stars to unveil how the activity in the photosphere is connected with that in the corona, to identify the dominant surface magnetic activity, and to correlate our results with stellar properties, such as rotation and mass.

Methods. We analyzed the simultaneous optical and X-ray variability in stars without inner disks (e.g., class III objects and stars with transition disks) in NGC 2264 from observations obtained with Chandra/ACIS-I and CoRoT as part of the Coordinated Synoptic Investigation of NGC 2264. We searched for those stars whose optical and X-ray variability is correlated, anti-correlated, or not correlated by sampling their optical and X-ray light curves in suitable time intervals and studying the correlation between the flux observed in optical and in X-rays. We then studied how this classification is related with stellar properties.

Results. Starting from a sample of 74 class III/transition disk (TD) stars observed with CoRoT and detected with Chandra with more than 60 counts, we selected 16 stars whose optical and X-ray variability is anti-correlated, 11 correlated, and 17 where there is no correlation. The remaining stars did not fall in any of these groups. We interpreted the anti-correlated optical and X-ray variability as typical of spot-dominated sources, due to the rotational modulation of photospheric spots spatially coincident to coronal active regions, and correlated variability typical of faculae-dominated sources, where the brightening due to faculae is dominant over the darkening due to spots.

Conclusions. Stars with “anti-correlated” variability rotate slower and are less massive than those with “correlated” variability. Furthermore, cool stars in our sample have larger u − r variability than hot stars. This suggests that there is a connection between stellar rotation, mass, and the dominant surface magnetic activity, which may be related with the topology of the large-scale magnetic field. We thus discuss this scenario in the framework of the complex magnetic properties of weak-line T Tauri stars observed as part of recent projects.
Damage to an overpass bridge from WBS prefab beams
Authors: Furtak Kazimierz , Hebda Mariusz
Published: July 2019

The article presents a description and analysis of the causes of damage to a road viaduct, made of prefabricated compressed beams of the WBS type in the 1970s. Both the design and damage are typical for objects made in those years. Damage results from the deck slab being too thin, low quality waterproof membrane, easily deformable deck surface, leaking bridge deck expansion joints, linear-contact bearings at excessively long spans, undurable drainage system elements. On the basis of the static and strength analysis, proposals for a way of repairing the viaduct were given, which, taking into account the occurrence of similar structural solutions in existing facilities, can be used as a guide when designing renovation and modernization.
Revitalization of historic railway bridges on the example of a structure in Łęknica (Poland)
Authors: Juszczyk Artur
Published: July 2019

In the article, an attempt is made to describe the scale of the problem of the revitalization of railway bridges found on lines no longer in use. The issue of changes in use of historic railway bridges is considered on the example of a bridge in Łęknica built in the years 1897-1898. The described bridge is untypical due to the inverted parabolic truss girders and the placement of 9 spans in a horizontal arch of a small radius. The structural solutions of the railway structure as well as the scope of construction works carried out in an effort to adapt it for pedestrian and cyclist traffic have been presented.
Improvement of the load capacity of the road overpass as a result of repairs after breakage caused by vehicle impacts
Authors: Miśkiewicz Mikołaj , Bruski Dawid , Chróścielewski Jacek , Wilde Krzysztof
Published: July 2019

Damages of spans of the overpass caused by impact of underpassing vehicles are relatively frequent. Objects that use prefabricated load-bearing elements that are not designed for such impacts are particularly exposed. After impact, such structural elements suffer extensive damage that must be repaired. Taking advantages of this recovery actions it is worth to perform strengthening that will protect object against possible future impacts. In this study the influence of the structural strengthening of the damaged overpass on its strength parameters is investigated. For this purpose the advanced computational model was created. The numerical model includes the response of the reinforcement and prestressing tendons. This model enables precise description of damage caused due to the vehicle‘s impact and further analysis of re-impact of the strengthened structure.
Analysis of repair works to remove the effects of structural failure after a gas explosion
Authors: Bąk Aleksandra , Chmielewski Ryszard
Published: July 2019

The article presents the issues of repair works in a multi-family residential building, whose structural and non – structural elements have been damaged and destroyed by a gas explosion and the fire. Gas explosions in residential buildings constitute a small percentage of the total number of building disasters, however, due to the relatively large number of injured people, these incidents are very dangerous [1]. Moreover, the gas explosion often leads to significant material losses and fatalities. Proper assessment of the load-bearing structure after such incident requires an extensive knowledge of the behaviour of structures. The first authority, that issues a decision regarding further use is Construction Supervision Inspector. Until the demolition of the object is ordered, the next step is to provide expert report made by an authorized construction expert, whose aim is to assess the technical condition of the elements of the structure and to determine the scope of necessary repair works. Construction expert, who give such opinion during the assessment of objects immediately after such incident, often has limited access to structural elements, moreover these elements often are covered. Hence, the recommendations contained in these reports often do not include all of required construction works.
Design errors of the external lift shaft and their negative impact on the operation of the clinic building
Authors: Niedostatkiewicz Maciej , Majewski Tomasz , Ziółkowski Patryk
Published: July 2019

Three-story external lift shaft was added to the gable wall of the existing clinic building. The shaft was designed as an independent static system, not connected to the building structure. After three years of operation, an increase in the width of the expansion joints between the building‘s top wall and the shaft at its entire height was found. The defects most likely can be addressed to subsidence of land accompanied by changes in the level of groundwater within the foundations of the building. In this paper, we proposed a solution to repair the defect and restore the proper technical condition allowing for its continued safe use.
Change in groundwater conditions as a cause of structural failure – selected case studies
Authors: Godlewski Tomasz , Bogusz Witold , Kaczyński Łukasz
Published: July 2019

The paper presents the summary of five case studies related to structural failures that were caused by the change in groundwater conditions during the existence of the buildings. The failures resulted from excessive differential settlements that were caused either by reactivation of consolidation process, due to change in effective stresses, or a change in water content in the case of expansive soils.
Pile bearing analysis based upon ultimate values of toe and skin resistance as well as their mobilization with settlement
Authors: Żarkiewicz Krzysztof
Published: July 2019

The main task of pile foundation is the reduction of settlement and ensure the safety of the building. These two factors are in strongly relationship. In practice pile load capacity is calculated based on ultimate resistances including factor of safety. The load-settlement relationship is non-linear, so it would can happen that despite the applied load (several times smaller than ultimate pile load capacity), the settlement exceeds the allowable value, and in consequently it might cause damage of the structure. In the paper the method of determining ultimate resistances and mobilization of these resistances with settlement was presented based on the static pile load test results. The proposed method can be applied in pile load capacity verification.
Safety assessment of strengthened floor slab structures in a historic department store in Wroclaw
Authors: Kruszka Leopold
Published: July 2019

The subject of the paper are existing intermediate steel/ceramic ceiling structures on four levels from "-1" to "2" in a remodelled historic department store in Wroclaw, which are reinforced with an extra concrete flooring slab cast on a trapezoidal sheet in the post-war period. The purpose of this work is to check the possibility of leaving in these reinforced brick slabs with Förster‘s clay block, ceiling structures, as part of the reconstruction of this building after 2005. The scope of work includes the diagnostics of structural elements for these floor slabs with material tests.
The analysis on causes of failure and strengthening of foundation slab with pre-tensioned CFRP stripes
Authors: Bartosik Tomasz , Szefer Mariusz , Majchrzyk Łukasz
Published: July 2019

The paper presents an example of failure of the foundation slab of a complex of multi-storey buildings and an analysis of the complex reasons of its origin. In addition, the method and technology of the repair was presented in conditions of continuous, though limited operation of the facility, taking into account the existing limitations. The repair involved the necessity of performing specialized preparatory works, proper assembly and protection of the designed strengthening.
Condition assessment of selected reinforced concrete structural elements of the bus station in Kielce
Authors: Tworzewski Paweł , Raczkiewicz Wioletta , Grzmil Wioletta , Czapik Przemysław
Published: July 2019

The paper presents the results of the research aimed at assessing the condition of reinforcement and concrete cover in selected elements of the structure of the most recognizable structure in Kielce, i.e. PKS station, located at Czarnowska Street. Currently, demolition works are underway resulting from the planned modernization. The assessment of the corrosion risk of the reinforcement in the construction elements was carried out with the use of a semi-non-destructive electrochemical method. The use of this method made it possible to determine the probability of reinforcement corrosion in the selected areas and to estimate its rate. The protective properties of concrete cover were checked by the carbonation test (test using a 1% phenolphthalein solution) and phase composition analysis (X-ray diffraction analysis). In order to determine the position of the reinforcing bars and to estimate the concrete cover thickness distribution in the areas corresponding to the aforementioned measurements, ferromagnetic detection system was used.
Acoustic emission method as a tool for the assessment of influence of the temperature variation on destructive processes created in early age concrete
Authors: Bacharz Magdalena , Trąmpczyński Wiesław , Goszczyńska Barbara
Published: July 2019

During the early age concrete treatment (curing and hardening) the damage process appears i.e., microcracks in the cement paste, propagation of internal microcracks, and formation of microcracks on the surface of concrete that affect concrete. It can be the serious source that initiate cracks that will propagate in the further loading stage, thereby affecting the overall strength and durability of structures. Hence, it is quite important to have a tool to identify the damage processes created up during the early age concrete treatment. The Identification of Active Damage Processes (IADP) acoustic emission method, modified to suit the tests on non-loaded concrete, was applied to determine and locate the damage processes that appears during the hardening conditions taking into account the temperature fluctuations on which construction structures are exposed (constant temperature of 22ºC or cyclic temperature variations in the range -5ºC/+42ºC) in non-loaded concrete produced with basalt aggregate and blast furnace cement. It is shown that the modified IADP method, can be used to assess the influence of the temperature variation on damage process in early age non-loaded concrete. As an example, concrete produced with basalt aggregate and blast furnace cement was used.
Analysis of Exploitation Damages of the Frame Scaffolding
Authors: Robak Aleksander , Pieńko Michał , Błazik-Borowa Ewa , Bęc Jarosław , Szer Iwona
Published: July 2019

The analyzes and classifications presented in the article were based on the research carried out in the years 2016 to 2018 on a group of over one hundred scaffoldings assembled and used on construction sites in different parts of Poland. During scaffolding selection process efforts were made to maintain diversification in terms of parameters such as scaffolding size, investment size, type of investment, location and nature of conducted 5works. This resulted in the research being carried out on scaffoldings used for church renovation in a small town or attached to the facades of classic apartment blocks, as well as on scaffoldings used during construction of skyscrapers or facilities of the largest power plants. This variety allows to formulate general conclusions about the technical condition of used frame scaffoldings. Exploitation damages of the frame scaffolding elements were divided into three groups. The first group includes damages to the main structural components, which reduce the strength of the scaffolding elements and hence the whole structure. The qualitative analysis of these damages was made based on numerical models that take into account the geometry of the damage and based on computational nonlinear static analyzes. The second group focuses on exploitation damages such as the lack of a pin on the guardrail bolt which may cause an imminent threat to people using scaffolding. These are local damages that do not affect the bearing capacity and stability of the whole structure but are very important for safe use. The last group consider damages that reduce only aesthetic values and do not have direct impact on bearing capacity and safety of use. Apart from qualitative analyzes the article will present quantitative analyzes showing how frequently given type of damage occurs.
Problems encountered when assessing the technical condition of some types of industrial structures on the example of coal bunkers for a power boiler
Authors: Kubica Jan , Kałuża Marta
Published: July 2019

The assessment of the technical condition of the structure in industrial facilities is sometimes very difficult, even for experienced construction specialists. First, this applies to facilities in which there are quite specific cubature constructions, as objects located in the coal mine facility, or coal-fired CHP plants. In the case of energy plants, such a typical construction that causes the most problems when assessing the technical condition is coal or fine coal storage tank usually in the form of bunker batteries supplying power boilers. In practice, access to the interior of such bunkers is possible only when the power unit is put out of service (boiler extinguish) in order to repair, upgrade or expand it. In presented paper on the example of two coal bunkers (from a battery consisting of four such constructions) of one of the power plants located in southern Poland, the authors want to present and discuss some specific problems that occurred in the assessment and analysis of the technical condition of this type of specific industrial structure.
Corrosion as a cause of the failure of the pipeline steel supporting structure
Authors: Paczkowski Wiesław , Skibicki Szymon
Published: July 2019

The article describes the failure of the steel supporting structure of the pipeline caused by corrosion. The structure in question is a three-span steel bridge with truss girders. The structure was erected in the 1960s and is located above the railway track. Due to the specific shape of the hinges, which join the middle span with the rest of the structure one of them was damaged by corrosion, which caused it to break off. That led to situation where the middle span was retained by only three joints. To achieve proper safety of the structure it was additionally supported and strengthened. Due to the necessity of quick repair (there was a real threat of a collapse), some of the works performed had a provisional character. The article presents a description, detailed causes for failure and all the works, which were carried out in order to protect and repair the structure. The analysis of this case showed that, despite adequate protection of structural elements against corrosion, improper design resulting in retaining water led to serious failure.
Strengthening of a steel girder with web openings
Authors: Wojnar Andrzej , Bernatowska Edyta
Published: July 2019

The paper presents results of investigation carried out on structure of the cultural center building in Dębica in Poland. Technical condition of mentioned building after 40 years of exploitation did not allow for its further use. In order to check the reliability of the structure, the authorities of the city commissioned an expertise. This study included basic structure measurements, loads statement and static analysis as well as check of limit states. As a result of the conducted analyses, it was found that the roof structure made of steel girder with web openings did not comply with resistant conditions. The paper presents brief description of building structure, numerical analyses and proposals of strengthening the roof girder.
Andrographis paniculata – Kalmegh, Fah thalai chon
Authors: Burri Josef , Uehleke Bernhard
Published: July 2019

Andrographis paniculata (Wall), ein Akanthusgewächs, stammt ursprünglich aus Indien und Sri Lanka, ist mittlerweile in ganz Südostasien und etlichen anderen Ländern verbreitet. Als sehr bittere Medizin ist die Pflanze bei Kindern verhasst. Dennoch wird sie in den traditionellen Medizinsystemen Indiens, Chinas, Tibets, Thailands und Malaysias recht häufig verwendet. Sie wird auch als „indische Echinacea“ bezeichnet. In Thailand trägt sie den Namen „Fah thalai chon“, was ungefähr so viel bedeutet wie „Der Himmel vertreibt den Eindringling“ oder „Der Himmel schlägt den Räuber“, was durchaus der erwünschten medizinischen Wirkung entspricht. Sogar ein thailändischer Spielfilm trägt diesen Originaltitel, wohl weil Pflanze und Titel den Seelenzustand des Protagonisten treffend beschreiben („Tears of the Black Tiger“ von Wisit Sasanatieng, 2000). Warum Großmütter sehr viel Überzeugungsarbeit leisten müssen, um ihren kranken Enkelkindern den Kalmegh-Tee aufzuschwatzen, liegt in dessen Bitterkeit. Der Kalmegh hat also durchaus dramaturgische Qualitäten. Er ist die Bitterpflanze par excellence und darf in keinem häuslichen Kräutergarten Thailands fehlen.
Früherkennung und Behandlung von psychischen und psychosomatischen Erkrankungen im Betrieb
Authors: Schwarz Elena , Gündel Harald , Rothermund Eva
Published: July 2019

Psychische Erkrankungen gelten in Deutschland als zweithäufigster Grund für Arbeitsunfähigkeit. Dabei kann die Arbeit selbst sowohl Belastung als auch Ressource für die Mitarbeiter sein. Positiven Einfluss auf den Krankheitsverlauf hat vor allem die frühe Erkennung und somit auch frühe Behandlung der Erkrankungen. Die Psychosomatische Sprechstunde im Betrieb (PSIB) ist ein vom Betrieb initiiertes Angebot für Mitarbeiter mit psychischen Beschwerden. Sie wird von externen Experten für seelische Gesundheit durchgeführt, gehört aber zum betrieblichen Versorgungsnetzwerk. Das so entstehende, niedrigschwellige Angebot soll Mitarbeitern den Zugang zu adäquater Behandlung erleichtern. Die enge Anbindung der Behandler an den Betrieb soll weiter die individuelle Integration von Arbeitsthemen in die Behandlung ermöglichen. Die Rahmenbedingungen der Sprechstunde, wie z. B. der Ort und die Dauer des Kontaktes, werden im Vorlauf mit dem jeweiligen Unternehmen abgestimmt. Der Fokus der Begegnung liegt auf der Vermittlung von Kontrolle und Orientierung an den Mitarbeiter. Zentrale Elemente der PSIB sind dabei zunächst die Beziehungsherstellung zwischen Behandler und Mitarbeiter sowie eine erste Diagnostik und Situationsbeschreibung. Weitere Elemente sind Wissensvermittlung und Befähigung des Mitarbeiters sowie abschließend die Planung und Begleitung nächster Schritte. Insgesamt 174 Mitarbeiter dreier Unternehmen wurden mit 194 Nutzern psychotherapeutischer Ambulanzen verglichen. Es zeigte sich eine signifikant höhere Nutzerzufriedenheit der Sprechstundenteilnehmer zu denen der Regelversorgung.
Subglottische Pathologien
Authors: Heyduck Adrienne , Pickhard Anja , Brosch Sibylle , Hoffmann Thomas K. , Reiter Rudolf
Published: July 2019

Subglottische Pathologien sind sehr selten und manifestieren sich mit einem
unspezifischen klinischen Erscheinungsbild in Form einer Gewebevermehrung auf
Höhe des Ringknorpels bzw. der cranialen Trachea, was die Diagnose verschleiert.
Typische Symptome solcher Patienten sind Heiserkeit, Reizhusten, ein
Fremdkörpergefühl sowie Dyspnoe bzw. Stridor. Differenzialdiagnostisch kommen
verschiedene Erkrankungen in Frage: Benigne Erkrankungen wie Folgen eines
Traumas (z. B. Stenosen), Entzündungen (z. B. Pseudokrupp), rheumatische
Erkrankungen (z. B. Granulomatose mit Polyangiitis) oder gutartige Tumore (z. B.
Papillom, Hämangiom oder Granularzelltumor). Auch maligne Erkrankungen wie z. B.
ein Plattenepithelkarzinom des Larynx, ein Chondrosarkom oder sehr selten eine
laryngeale Lymphommanifestation müssen differenzialdiagnostisch in Erwägung
gezogen werden. Idiopathische Formen ohne erkennbare Ursache sind ebenfalls
denkbar. Zur Diagnosesicherung wird bei tumorösen Veränderungen in der Regel
eine Probeexzision mit histologischer Aufarbeitung durchgeführt. Die Therapie
erfolgt in Abhängigkeit vom histologischen Ergebnis – bei soliden tumorösen
Erkrankungen üblicherweise chirurgisch oder durch eine Lokal- bzw.
Systemtherapie im interdisziplinären Kontext.