bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development Within a Religious Ontology? The Argument from Islamic Dharma
Authors: Pool Fernande W.
Published: December 2019

Drawing on long-term ethnographic research with Muslims in India, this article suggests that religion should not (only) be understood as a sub-category of development but as an integral part of the meta-ontology based on which one should engage with development initially. Value-driven development implies a normative view of society, and a ‘more human’ society is at the core of worthwhile development. For the research participants, their ontological conceptions (notions of what being human means) and the ethical autonomy to deliberate on a normative view of life and society are embedded in the Islamicdharma. To approach religion as only a sub-category in an otherwise secular development framework marginalises these, and probably many other, religious life experiences and ontological notions from the outset. Instead, secular and religious ontologies should be considered at par in an inclusive dialogue on worthwhile development.
Evaluation of serial crystallographic structure determination within megahertz pulse trains
Authors: Yefanov Oleksandr , Oberthür Dominik , Bean Richard , Wiedorn Max O. , Knoska Juraj , Pena Gisel , Awel Salah , Gumprecht Lars , Domaracky Martin , Sarrou Iosifina , Lourdu Xavier P. , Metz Markus , Bajt Saša , Mariani Valerio , Gevorkov Yaroslav , White Thomas A. , Tolstikova Aleksandra , Villanueva-Perez Pablo , Seuring Carolin , Aplin Steve , Estillore Armando D. , Küpper Jochen , Klyuev Alexander , Kuhn Manuela , Laurus Torsten , Graafsma Heinz , Monteiro Diana C. F. , Trebbin Martin , Maia Filipe R. N. C. , Cruz-Mazo Francisco , Gañán-Calvo Alfonso M. , Heymann Michael , Darmanin Connie , Abbey Brian , Schmidt Marius , Fromme Petra , Giewekemeyer Klaus , Sikorski Marcin , Graceffa Rita , Vagovic Patrik , Kluyver Thomas , Bergemann Martin , Fangohr Hans , Sztuk-Dambietz Jolanta , Hauf Steffen , Raab Natascha , Bondar Valerii , Mancuso Adrian P. , Chapman Henry , Barty Anton
Published: December 2019

The new European X-ray Free-Electron Laser (European XFEL) is the first X-ray free-electron laser capable of delivering intense X-ray pulses with a megahertz interpulse spacing in a wavelength range suitable for atomic resolution structure determination. An outstanding but crucial question is whether the use of a pulse repetition rate nearly four orders of magnitude higher than previously possible results in unwanted structural changes due to either radiation damage or systematic effects on data quality. Here, separate structures from the first and subsequent pulses in the European XFEL pulse train were determined, showing that there is essentially no difference between structures determined from different pulses under currently available operating conditions at the European XFEL.
A shared vision for macromolecular crystallography over the next five years
Authors: Förster Andreas , Schulze-Briese Clemens
Published: December 2019

Macromolecular crystallography (MX) is the dominant means of determining the three-dimensional structures of biological macromolecules, but the method has reached a critical juncture. New diffraction-limited storage rings and upgrades to the existing sources will provide beamlines with higher flux and brilliance, and even the largest detectors can collect at rates of several hundred hertz. Electron cryomicroscopy is successfully competing for structural biologists' most exciting projects. As a result, formerly scarce beam time is becoming increasingly abundant, and beamlines must innovate to attract users and ensure continued funding. Here, we will show how data collection has changed over the preceding five years and how alternative methods have emerged. We then explore how MX at synchrotrons might develop over the next five years. We predict that, despite the continued dominance of rotation crystallography, applications previously considered niche or experimental, such as serial crystallography, pink-beam crystallography, and crystallography at energies above 25 keV and below 5 keV, will rise in prominence as beamlines specialize to offer users the best value. Most of these emerging methods will require new hardware and software. With these advances, MX will more efficiently provide the high-resolution structures needed for drug development. MX will also be able to address a broader range of questions than before and contribute to a deeper understanding of biological processes in the context of integrative structural biology.
Do disasters predict international pharmacy legislation?
Authors: Watson Kaitlyn E. , Singleton Judith A. , Tippett Vivienne , Nissen Lisa M.
Published: December 2019

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to explore whether a relationship exists between the number of disasters a jurisdiction has experienced and the presence of disaster-specific pharmacy legislation. MethodsPharmacy legislation specific to disasters was reviewed for five countries: Australia, Canada, UK, US and New Zealand. A binary logistic regression test using a generalised estimating equation was used to examine the association between the number of disasters experienced by a state, province, territory or country and whether they had disaster-specific pharmacy legislation. ResultsThree of six models were statistically significant, suggesting that the odds of a jurisdiction having disaster-specific pharmacy legislation increased as the number of disasters increased for the period 2007–17 and 2013–17. There was an association between the everyday emergency supply legislation and the presence of the extended disaster-specific emergency supply legislation . ConclusionsIt is evident from this review that there are inconsistencies as to the level of assistance pharmacists can provide during times of crisis depending on their jurisdiction and location of practice. It is not a question of whether pharmacists have the skills and capabilities to assist, but rather what legislative barriers are preventing them from being able to contribute further to the disaster healthcare team. What is known about the topic?The contributing factors to disaster-specific pharmacy legislation has not previously been explored in Australia. It can be postulated that the number of disasters experienced by a jurisdiction increases the likelihood of governments introducing disaster-specific pharmacy legislation based on other countries. What does this paper add?This study compared five countries and their pharmacy legislation specific to disasters. It identified that as the number of disasters increases, the odds of a jurisdiction having disaster-specific emergency supply or disaster relocation or mobile pharmacy legislation increases. However, this is likely to be only one of many factors affecting the political decisions of when and what legislation is passed in relation to pharmacists’ roles in disasters. What are the implications for practitioners?Pharmacists are well situated in the community to be of assistance during disasters. However, their ability to help patients with chronic disease management or providing necessary vaccinations in disasters is limited by the legislation in their jurisdiction. Releasing pharmacists’ full potential in disasters could alleviate the burden of low-acuity patients on other healthcare services. This could subsequently free up other healthcare professionals to treat high-acuity patients and emergencies.
Mix-and-inject XFEL crystallography reveals gated conformational dynamics during enzyme catalysis
Authors: Dasgupta Medhanjali , Budday Dominik , de Oliveira Saulo H. P. , Madzelan Peter , Marchany-Rivera Darya , Seravalli Javier , Hayes Brandon , Sierra Raymond G. , Boutet Sébastien , Hunter Mark S. , Alonso-Mori Roberto , Batyuk Alexander , Wierman Jennifer , Lyubimov Artem , Brewster Aaron S. , Sauter Nicholas K. , Applegate Gregory A. , Tiwari Virendra K. , Berkowitz David B. , Thompson Michael C. , Cohen Aina E. , Fraser James S. , Wall Michael E. , van den Bedem Henry , Wilson Mark A.
Published: December 2019

How changes in enzyme structure and dynamics facilitate passage along the reaction coordinate is a fundamental unanswered question. Here, we use time-resolved mix-and-inject serial crystallography (MISC) at an X-ray free electron laser (XFEL), ambient-temperature X-ray crystallography, computer simulations, and enzyme kinetics to characterize how covalent catalysis modulates isocyanide hydratase (ICH) conformational dynamics throughout its catalytic cycle. We visualize this previously hypothetical reaction mechanism, directly observing formation of a thioimidate covalent intermediate in ICH microcrystals during catalysis. ICH exhibits a concerted helical displacement upon active-site cysteine modification that is gated by changes in hydrogen bond strength between the cysteine thiolate and the backbone amide of the highly strained Ile152 residue. These catalysis-activated motions permit water entry into the ICH active site for intermediate hydrolysis. Mutations at a Gly residue (Gly150) that modulate helical mobility reduce ICH catalytic turnover and alter its pre-steady-state kinetic behavior, establishing that helical mobility is important for ICH catalytic efficiency. These results demonstrate that MISC can capture otherwise elusive aspects of enzyme mechanism and dynamics in microcrystalline samples, resolving long-standing questions about the connection between nonequilibrium protein motions and enzyme catalysis.
Discursive constructions on Spanish languages
Authors: Morales-López Esperanza
Published: December 2019

The analysis of the different ideological constructions around the languages of Spain shows two main metaphors
that support the linguistic conflict experienced in the last three or four decades: the container metaphor (languages conceived as
entities that are completely independent of each other) and the ecological metaphor (each language occupies a specific niche for
historical reasons). The study of complexity provides a new metaphor as a new solution for this conflict, i.e. the
eco-biosociological metaphor, which is based on the assumption that what is human cannot be explained exclusively by biological
factors, but instead by communicative action in cooperation with others above all. To illustrate the first two metaphors, in this
paper we consider the linguistic position of two new parties: En Marea and En Comú-Podem.
T cell epitope of arginine kinase with CpG co-encapsulated nanoparticles attenuates a shrimp allergen-induced Th2-bias food allergy
Authors: Gao Qichan , Hong Jingyi , Xiao Xiaojun , Cao Hui , Yuan Ruyi , Liu Zhigang , Chen Tongqiang
Published: December 2019

T cell peptide-based immunotherapy (PIT) is an appealing therapeutic strategy for modulating allergic responses without IgE cross-linking. We propose a novel PIT that combines a T-cell epitope of the shrimp allergen arginine kinase (AKp) with TLR9 agonist CpG-ODN in nanoparticles (CpG-AKp NPs) to attenuate a shrimp allergen-induced food allergy. Treatment with CpG-AKp NPs demonstrated the attenuation of anaphylaxis responses such as the reduced incidence of diarrhea and hypothermia, lower levels of specific IgE and the induction of IgG2a in serum. Th2 cytokines were suppressed and higher Th1 cytokines were detected in the splenocyte culture supernatants. Treatment of CpG-AKp NPs also enhanced the protein expression of Foxp3 and IL-10 in small intestine but decreased the activation of STAT6 and GATA3 expression, which are related to differentiation of Th2. Our data indicated that CpG-AKp NPs may represent a promising PIT against shrimp allergy.
Well-Ordered Science’s Basic Problem
Authors: Philippi Cristian Larroulet
Published: December 2019

Kitcher has proposed an ideal-theory account—well-ordered science (WOS)—of the collective good that science’s research agenda should promote. Against criticism regarding WOS’s action guidance, Kitcher has advised critics not to confuse substantive ideals and the ways to arrive at them, and he has defended WOS as a necessary and useful ideal for science policy. I provide a distinction between two types of ideal theories that helps clarifying WOS’s elusive nature. I use this distinction to argue that the action-guidance problem that WOS faces remains even under the aims/means distinction because the WOS’s failure is more basic than critics have suggested.
Developing competency profiles of IT specialists based on semantic analysis of vacancies
Authors: Gintciak Aleksey , Rytik Andrey , Terin Denis , Kudaka Marina , Kaisyn Dmitriy , Ignatev Aleksey , Marakhtanov Aleksey , Gladkih Oksana
Published: December 2019

The article focuses on applying Big Data processing methods and tools for creating specialists’ competency profiles. It covers the approach developed to formulate the key competencies required for the IT vacancies. The first stage of the research includes carrying out a semantic analysis of the IT vacancies database. The second stage includes clustering of the results of semantic analysis and using them for building the map of the competencies of IT specialists. The modularity score reveals a significant isolation of the specialties in this area. The performed approach can be implemented in designing the professional standards and competency based education programs.
Word reordering algorithm for poetry analysis
Authors: Barakhnin V B , Pastushkov I S
Published: December 2019

Automatic poetry analysis is usually examined as subtask of natural language processing but approaches which are good for prose texts are ineffective for poetry due to free semantic characteristics. It allows us to use large corpus for training words order and rather small text corpus amount. In this paper we suggest the way to adapt poetry texts to prose ones by changing word order without loosing of model and also use word2vec features to improve the classifier work.
Emissions in the stream: estimating the greenhouse gas impacts of an oil and gas boom
Authors: Waxman Andrew R , Khomaini Achmad , Leibowicz Benjamin D , Olmstead Sheila M
Published: December 2019

The Shale Revolution has stimulated a large and rapid buildout of oil and gas infrastructure in the Gulf and Southwest regions of the United States (US), expected to unfold over decades. Therefore, it is critical to develop a clearer understanding of the scale and composition of the likely greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with this activity. We compile a detailed inventory of projected upstream oil and gas production expansions as well as recently and soon-to-be built midstream and downstream facilities within the region. Using data from emissions permits, emissions factors, and facility capacities, we estimate expected GHG emissions at the facility level for facilities that have recently been constructed or are soon to be constructed. Our central estimate suggests that the total annual emissions impact of the regional oil and gas infrastructure buildout may reach 541 million tons of CO2 equivalent (CO2e) by 2030, which is more than 8% of total US GHG emissions in 2017 and roughly equivalent to the emissions of 131 coal-fired power plants. A substantial fraction of the projected emissions come from petrochemical facilities (38%) and liquefied natural gas terminals (19%). Researchers have largely focused on upstream emissions such as fugitive methane (CH4) associated with new US production; our findings reveal the potentially greater prominence of midstream and downstream sources in the studied region.
Studies pertaining to the monitoring of volatile halogenated anaesthetics in breath by proton transfer reaction mass spectrometry
Authors: Malásková Michaela , Olivenza-León David , Chellayah Prema D , Martini Judith , Lederer Wolfgang , Ruzsanyi Veronika , Unterkofler Karl , Mochalski Paweł , Märk Tilmann D , Watts Peter , Mayhew Chris A
Published: December 2019

Post-operative isoflurane has been observed to be present in the end-tidal breath of patients who have undergone major surgery, for several weeks after the surgical procedures. A major new non-controlled, non-randomized, and open-label approved study will recruit patients undergoing various surgeries under different inhalation anaesthetics, with two key objectives, namely (1) to record the washout characteristics following surgery, and (2) to investigate the influence of a patient’s health and the duration and type of surgery on elimination. In preparation for this breath study using proton transfer reaction time-of-flight mass spectrometry (PTR-TOF-MS), it is important to identify first the analytical product ions that need to be monitored and under what operating conditions. In this first paper of this new research programme, we present extensive PTR-TOF-MS studies of three major anaesthetics used worldwide, desflurane (CF3CHFOCHF2), sevoflurane ((CF3)2CHOCH2F), and isoflurane (CF3CHClOCHF2) and a fourth one, which is used less extensively, enflurane (CHF2OCF2CHFCl), but is of interest because it is an isomer of isoflurane. Product ions are identified as a function of reduced electric field (E/N) over the range of approximately 80 Td to 210 Td, and the effects of operating the drift tube under ‘normal’ or ‘humid’ conditions on the intensities of the product ions are presented. To aid in the analyses, density functional theory (DFT) calculations of the proton affinities and the gas-phase basicities of the anaesthetics have been determined. Calculated energies for the ion-molecule reaction pathways leading to key product ions, identified as ideal for monitoring the inhalation anaesthetics in breath with a high sensitivity and selectivity, are also presented.
Influence of curing conditions on mechanical and fracture properties of alkali activated slag concrete
Authors: Šimonová H , Kucharczyková B , Bílek V , Topolář L , Kocáb D
Published: December 2019

The aim of this work is to determine the physical, mechanical and fracture characteristics of concrete specimens with alkali activated binder cured at different conditions. The concrete mixture with alkali activated ground granulated blast furnace slag was selected for the purpose of the experiment. The binder was activated by the liquid sodium silicate with the silicate modulus of 2.0. Natural sand and gravel were used as a fine and coarse aggregate, respectively. The maximum aggregate size was 16 mm. The binder : aggregate : water ratio was 1 : 3 : 0.46. During the specimens ageing, the dynamic modulus of elasticity was determined using a resonance method. The fracture characteristics were determined based on the results of the three-point bending test of specimens provided with an initial central edge notch. The fracture experiments were conducted at the age of 3 and 38 days. The loading force (F), the displacement measured in the middle of the span length (d), and the crack mouth opening displacement (CMOD) were continuously recorded during the test. The records of fracture tests were subsequently evaluated using the effective crack model, work-of-fracture method and double-K fracture model. The fracture tests were also accompanied by the monitoring of acoustic responses using the acoustic emission method.
Mechanical Properties of Geopolymer Concretes Reinforced with Waste Steel Fibers
Authors: Gailitis R , Korniejenko K , Łach M , Sliseris J , Morán J , Rodriguez E , Mikuła J
Published: December 2019

The article presents the research that try to determinate the possibilities of utilization the waste came from used tires to create the composites based on geopolymer matrix. The tire is multicomponent construction. It mainly consists of elastomer (rubber), metal and textile fibres such called textile cord. A lot of components causes difficulties in the tire recycling process. The main aim of the research was determinate the possibilities of recycling the waste steel from used tires in geopolymer composites and develop the eco-friendly material for construction industry. The matrix based on fly ash from power station located in city named Skawina (Poland) and fine sand at a ratio of 1:1. The process of activation was made by 10M sodium hydroxide solution combined with the sodium silicate solution. In order to manufacture these composites the addition of 2% and 3.5% of waste steel fibres by mass was applied. Also specimen without steel fiber reinforcement were made to get reference specimens. The waste steel fibres came from recycling company from Argentina – ‘Regomax’. The specimens were prepared according to the methodology described in the standard EN 12390-1. The research methods used were: microstructure research, tensile strength and compressive strength tests as well as analysis of breakthroughs.
Synthesis of a Geopolymer Binders Using Spent Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC) Catalyst
Authors: Ruiz G , Aguilar R , Nakamatsu J , Kim S
Published: December 2019

A synthesis of a geopolymer binder using spent fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) catalyst is evaluated in this research. Spent FCC catalyst is a solid waste product from the oil refining industry worldwide. It is composed mainly by aluminium and silicon oxides. The silica modulus (Ms), NaOH molar concentration, and liquid/solid (AS/FCC) weight ratio were studied as key factors of the mixture composition for the evaluation of the compressive strength and bulk density of geopolymers. Additional total ratios of SiO2/Al2O3, Na2O/SiO2, and H2O/total solids, which consider chemical composition of the final mixture, were studied. Results indicate that there is an optimum value for each Ms, NaOH molar concentration and AS/FCC that produces the maximum compressive strength. These values also match with the optimized total ratios of SiO2/Al2O3, N2O/SiO2 and H2O/total solids in the mixture, which can be considered as alternative control parameters for the formulation process. The bulk density is more related to AS/FCC value. A geopolymer binder with a compressive strength of 24.7 MPa after curing for one day at 65°C and six days at room temperature was produced using this spent FCC waste.
3D computer drawing competition CADrina
Authors: Nõmm A , Mägi R , Meister K
Published: December 2019

CADrina is IT-festival, where takes place 3D computer drawing competition, which has been organized for 9 years by Kadrina Secondary School. In this competition AutoCAD program is used. Participants will create 3D objects in AutoCAD during a given period according to the specifications that will be provided. They will be judged on accuracy and speed. The competition took place in several rounds - the preliminary round and the final round. The event provides opportunities to showcase students’ knowledge and skills as well as to be a role model and inspiration for the future choice of young people. 3D computer drawing competition is a good chance to develop team-working skills under pressure among students.
Numerical investigation of influence of the temperature and relative humidity of air on the drying process of porous building
Authors: Wasik M , Łapka P , Cieślikiewicz Ł , Seredyński M , Furmański P , Pietrak K , Kubiś M , Wiśniewski T , Jaworski M
Published: December 2019

The impact of the relative humidity and temperature of air on drying rates of the porous building material was investigated by the non-equilibrium heat and moisture transfer model implemented in the ANSYS Fluent software. Simulations of 24 hours drying process of a brick initially saturated in 97% by water were conducted for two drying air temperature, i.e., 23.8°C and 40°C and relative humidity in the range from 10% to 50%. The relative moisture content at the end of simulations and times needed to reach the relative moisture content bellow 0.3 were determined. Not only the temperature but also the relative humidity of drying air had impact on the drying rate during the first drying period when water evaporated from the sample surface. The temperature of drying medium was more important than the relative humidity during the second drying period when water evaporated inside the brick. The drying process was faster in the higher temperature than in the lower one, even for the high relative humidity.
Experimental investigation of the influence of the relative humidity of air on the drying process of porous building materials
Authors: Cieślikiewicz Ł , Łapka P , Kubiś M , Wasik M , Pietrak K , Furmański P , Seredyński M , Wiśniewski T
Published: December 2019

The paper presents the experimental analysis of influence of the relative humidity of drying air on the drying process of porous building materials. Investigations were conducted by applying the stand which worked in a closed-loop flow and equipped with the following elements: the cooler (condenser), fan with variable rotation speed, throttle, humidifier, heater and control and acquisition systems. During experiments the temperature and velocity of air were equal to 40°C and 3 m/s, respectively, while its relative humidity was varied in the range from 16 to 40%. Two different materials were investigated, i.e., the red brick and mortar. Specimens were placed in the duct and had the top surface exposed to flowing air. Variations of the moisture content and temperature in considered building materials were measured by system of two force meters and thermocouples, respectively. The relative humidity of drying air significantly influenced on the drying process of building materials. The increase of the relative humidity of drying air resulted in the rise of the drying duration, the decrease of the drying rate and the increase of the level of temperature plateau (i.e., equilibrium temperature) which resulted from evaporation in the medium. Moreover, for the mortar drying rates were found much slower than for the red brick.
Impact flow and bed layering on equilibrium depth of scour at elliptical guide banks
Authors: Gjunsburgs B , Vilnitis M , Parilkova J , Bizane M
Published: December 2019

In the paper is present study the equilibrium scour at elliptical guide banks at different Fr number of the open flow, contraction, uniform or stratified bed model. A new approach for calculation equilibrium depth of scour at elliptical guide banks is elaborated and method for calculation equilibrium depth of scour bed at elliptical guide banks is presented. Analysis of the test, calculation and computer modelling results is made to estimate impact on relative equilibrium depth of scour: Fr number of the flow, local Froude number- FrVl
, FrVequil
, flow contraction, relative time, thickness and sequence of the bed layers. Relative equilibrium depth of scour is increasing with increase of Fr number of the open flow, local FrVl
number, FrV equil
at equilibrium depth of scour, relative time of scour, flow contraction and with different thickness and sequence of the bed layers. Calculation equilibrium depth of scour with the approach flow velocity and using the grain size only on the top of the bed or for the next layer calculate depth of scour with the same velocity, as it accepted nowadays, and neglecting changes of the flow parameters during the scour, bed layering can lead to wrong results and damages and losses.
Waste glass as a replacement for fine fraction in high-performance concrete
Authors: Mariaková D , Jirkalová Z , Laiblová L
Published: December 2019

Research project is focused on the experimental verification of high-performance concrete (HPC) with full replacement of fine fraction. This paper deals with HPC mixtures containing recycled glass materials (waste glass powder from municipal waste, waste glass powder from photovoltaic panels, grinding waste glass from jewellery). The research is based on the results of previous student grant. A recipe that was made during 2017 is used and optimized according to the waste glass powder properties. The influence of different local sources is monitored. The HPC mixtures are tested for mechanical properties (flexural strength, compressive strength) and compared with the results from the previous research. Flowability is tested and all the mixtures are workable. The mixture with grinding glass (GG) showed the highest results in flexural and compressive strength compared to the reference sample, the use as a substitute for fine fraction in HPC is conceivably attitude. The municipal waste glass mixture and the mixture with the waste glass from photovoltaic panels is not usable as HPC.
Properties of thin wall cement composites reinforced with AR glass, carbon and PVA fibres
Authors: Moceikis R , Kičaitė A , Sahmenko G , Korjakins A
Published: December 2019

Thin wall cement composites find a wide range of special applications for making light weight façade exterior wall and urban decorative elements, as well as a part of load bearing constructions. AR glass fibre is the most popular reinforcing material for producing glass fibre reinforced concrete (GRC). Possibilities for use alternative Carbon and PVA fibres are analysed in this work. The study is focused on investigation of technological and mechanical properties of thin wall (15 mm) cement composite plates reinforced by tree types of fibres.
Investigations on the foam concrete production techniques suitable for 3D-printing with foam concrete
Authors: Markin V , Sahmenko G , Nerella V N , Näther M , Mechtcherine V
Published: December 2019

With high thermal insulating property and low density, foam concrete has high potential in 3D-printing applications such as residential buildings. The synergy of the foam concrete and 3D-printing process pre-requisites research and optimization of foam concrete production. This paper presents investigations on the appropriateness of two different methods for production of foam concrete: 1) mixed foaming method in turbulence (colloidal) mixer and 2) mixed foaming method in cavitation disintegrator. Performance of synthetic and protein based foaming agents were examined. The dosage of the foaming agent was varied from 0.7% to 1.2% by weight of cement to produce foam concretes with densities ranging between 800 kg/m3 and 1500 kg/m3. The study shows that foaming ability of the designed concrete compositions depends primarily on their w-b ratio. Moreover, foaming with lesser dosage of foaming agent is possible when turbulence mixer is used. Furthermore, mechanical and physical properties of foam concrete, including compressive strength, bending strength, and water absorption were reported.
Behaviour of Timber-Concrete Joints in Hybrid Members Subjected to Flexure
Authors: Vasiljevs R , Serdjuks D , Gerasimova J , Buka-Vaivade K , Orhun Erüz A
Published: December 2019

Possibility to develop rigid timber-concrete joint for hybrid timber-concrete specimens was stated. Behaviour of timber-concrete rigid and compliant joints were evaluated numerically and by experiment for the members subjected to flexure. Small scale hybrid timber-concrete specimens with the length, width and thickness equal to 400, 95 and 43 mm were investigated for case of three points bending. The small-scale hybrid timber-concrete specimens consists from the layers of cement base finishing mass Sacret BAM and timber boards of strength class C24 with thicknesses equal to 25 and 18 mm, correspondingly. The rigid timber-concrete joint was provided by the pieces of crushed granite, which were strengthened on the surface of the timber boards by epoxy glue Sica Dur 330. Dimensions of the crushed granite pieces changes within the limits from 2 to 25 mm. The compliant timber-concrete joint was provided by the screws with diameter and length equal to 4 and 40 mm, correspondingly. The screws were placed under the angles equal to 45 and 90 degrees relatively to the direction of fibres of the timber layers. Load-carrying capacity and maximum vertical displacements were gotten for groups of small-scale hybrid timber-concrete specimens with rigid and compliant timber-concrete joints. It was shown that providing of rigid timber-concrete joint enables to decrease 1.86 - 3.50 times the maximum vertical displacements of hybrid timber-concrete specimens. Load-carrying capacity of the specimens grows by 16.5 – 50.0% at the same moment.
Efficient heat-insulating material based on technogenic anhydrite
Authors: Yakovlev G I , Kalabina D A , Pervushin G N , Drochytka R , Bazhenov K A , Gordina A F , Ginchitskaya J N
Published: December 2019

Physical and mechanical properties of the heat-insulating composition based on high-strength anhydrite binder with expanded perlite sand as a lightweight aggregate have been studied. The study has evaluated the influence of two poring components, air-entraining additives and aluminum powder suspension, on the main characteristics of the composition: the compressive strength of the sample, its average density, thermal conductivity, and water absorption. The studies have shown that adding an air-entraining agent in an amount of 1.2% by the weight of dry fluoroanhydrite significantly influenced the decrease in the average density (up to 37%) of the material. The developed composition with a lightweight aggregate based on expanded perlite sand and an air-entraining additive can be used in construction as an efficient heat-insulating material, including for filling cavity walls during frame construction.
Spectrophotometric evaluation of pigmented urethane acrylate coating colour stability
Authors: Grigale-Soročina Z , Birks I , Pilipavica R
Published: December 2019

The research was carried out testing two red pigment dispersion colour stability in UV light-curing urethane acrylate composition. The given urethane acrylate composition was pigmented with a pigment content of 0.1% to 5%. Coating colour change was evaluated at room temperature and at 50°C over a 28-day period. For all prepared pigment samples, spectrometric colour difference measurements were performed using CIEL*a*b* and CIEL*C*h* colour systems and FTIR-ATR to evaluate their stability over time. The colour stability was improved with increasing pigment concentration. There was found the difference between tested red pigments and can be concluded that one of them are more stable for use in pigmented coatings.
Variation of bending strength of fiber reinforced concrete beams due to fiber distribution and orientation and analysis of microstructure
Authors: Herrmann H , Boris R , Goidyk O , Braunbrück A
Published: December 2019

Fiber reinforced concrete is becoming increasingly popular as a construction material, as it can potentially form a ductile concrete. The properties of the fiber reinforced concrete depend on the concrete recipe, the flow of the fresh concrete into the formwork, possible vibrating of the concrete and the fiber orientations.

This contribution presents the results of bending tests performed on fiber reinforced concrete beam specimens, which have been cut out of a larger plate. These beams have different fiber orientation distributions, due to being taken from different parts of the plate and with different orientation with respect to the flow of the fresh concrete. Further, the microstructure of the concrete was investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The SEM shows no obvious differences in the microstructure between beams of different strength and shows good adhesion of fiber and concrete matrix in all investigated samples.
Recycling Municipal Solid Waste Incineration (MSWI) Fly Ash As Addition for Clay Brick
Authors: Voišnienė V , Kizinievič O , Kizinievič V
Published: December 2019

The authors analyses the possibilities of recycling municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) fly ash in clay brick manufacture. The paper analyses the effect of MWSI fly ash (FA) on physical-mechanical characteristics, environmental toxicity of clay bricks. The clay bricks were prepared by adding 2.5-7.5 % of FA and firing them at 1000 °C temperature. Physical and mechanical characteristics of clay brick change depending on the content of FA added: shrinkage, density and compressive strength reduce, water absorption and total porosity increase. Clay bricks containing 2.5-5 % FA do not exceed the limit values of inert substances according to the Waste Directive 2003/33/EC. According to the test results and taking into consideration clay brick physical - mechanical characteristics and environmental toxicity, the recommended content of the addition to the moulding compound is 2.5-5 % FA.
The impact of expanded polystyrene waste of different fineness on the properties of lightweight composite
Authors: Leonavičius D , Pundienė I , Pranckevičienė J , Kligys M
Published: December 2019

Expanded polystyrene (EP) is widely used as a packaging material for many types of goods. However, once the material is used, it is disposed of in landfills, where it can remain intact for the lifetime of several generations. Recycling of disposed EP packaging is of high relevance worldwide. The main objective of this study is to make a more detailed research into the effect of EP aggregate waste of different fineness and shape on physical and mechanical properties of porous lightweight aggregates concrete (PLWAC) with EP waste aggregates. Tests were done with Portland cement, EP waste of different fractions, resulted from crushing (EPR) and cutting (EPU), metakaolin, superplasticizer and air entraining admixture. Six batches of PLWAC specimens were formed with different EPR/EPU ratios, ranging from 0.5 to 3.The change in EPR/EPU ratio in PLWAC leads to structural changes and density reduction from 550 to 410 kg/m3 after drying. When EPR/EPU ratio in the PLWAC is increased to 2, the compressive strength of the specimens drops from 2.3 to 1.75 MPa and down to 0.55 MPa, when EPR/EPU ratio is increased to 3.
Use of carrier materials to immobilise and supply cementation medium for microbially mediated self-healing of biocement
Authors: Spencer C A , Sass H
Published: December 2019

Microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) has been attracting growing interest in respect of its use for biocementation, as a means of improving the engineering properties of granular soil. Recent studies have demonstrated the potential of MICP to enable self-healing of biocement, through the injection of nutrients and precursor chemicals required for MICP into degraded biocement. This paper documents the early stages of research into the development of an autonomous self-healing system for biocement, whereby the nutrients and precursor chemicals are provided from within the biocement matrix. This system has the potential to improve the durability and sustainability of geotechnical structures. The effectiveness of a variety of carrier materials for the immobilisation and release of the nutrients and precursor chemicals, also referred to as the cementation medium, has been explored. Materials tested include expanded perlite, diatomaceous earth and natural fibres such as jute and coir. Studies have subsequently been undertaken to investigate the effect of these carrier materials on the MICP process, in aqueous solutions and within the biocement matrix, and thus the potential to enable self-healing. Ureolytic, spore forming Sporosarcina ureae has been utilised to induce the precipitation of calcium carbonate.
Energy and moisture in historic masonry walls retrofitted with hemp-lime
Authors: Strandberg-de Bruijn P B , Balksten K
Published: December 2019

Thermally insulating historic buildings is imperative in order to reduce energy demands of the existing building stock. Therefore an insulation material is needed that improves energy efficiency while being compatible with the existing structure from a hygrothermal, aesthetic and cultural heritage perspective. Hemp-lime is a building material that consists of on a combination of hemp shiv, the woody core part of the hemp stem, and building limes. The aim of this study was to determine if hemp-lime could be a feasible option for thermally insulating historic masonry walls in Sweden. The objectives were to measure energy performance of full-scale masonry façades insulated with hemp-lime and to monitor moisture levels inside the masonry walls. Three small single leaf masonry façades were constructed. One façade was uninsulated, the other had internal hemp-lime insulation and a third had external hemp-lime insulation. Energy use for space heating as well as temperature and relative humidity in the walls and rooms were monitored. Results show that thermally insulating historic masonry walls with hemp-lime can lead to an improvement in energy performance of 44-53 % compared to uninsulated single-leaf masonry. However, moisture levels were higher in the masonry façades that were insulated with hemp-lime.
Effect of modified liquid glass on absorption humidity and thermal conductivity of flax fiber slabs
Authors: Romanovskiy S , Bakatovich A
Published: December 2019

Thermal insulation materials based on vegetable fibers are considered. The results of studies on the microstructure of flax fiber noils using a light microscope and flax fibers using electron microscopy are presented. The complex of studies on the selection of the composition of thermal insulation slabs from flax fibers and flax noils has been conducted to determine the process of absorption of humidity from the air. The humidity absorption of insulants based on flax fibers and flax noils has been determined at a relative humidity of 40–97% using sodium liquid glass and modified liquid glass, as well as «Akotherm flaks» slabs. The thermal insulation slabs water vapor absorption kinetics has also been investigated, taking into account the time parameter. The effect of absorption humidity on the thermal conductivity of the studied materials has been examined; for this purpose, the coefficients of thermal conductivity of materials with the maximum humidity content of insulators were determined. The results of the tests indicate the highest efficiency of thermal insulation slabs made of flax fiber tow compared with insulation materials based on flax fibers and «Akotherm flaks» slabs.
Green Integrated Structural Elements for Retrofitting and New Construction of Buildings
Authors: Kastiukas G , Zhou X
Published: December 2019

Governments across Europe have ambitious visions for the construction sector sector. For example, in the UK, as part of the Clean Growth Grand Challenge within the Governments Industrial Strategy, we are aiming to halve the energy use of new buildings by 2030; delivering new construction assets at a third of the cost and significantly quicker; provide assets that are cheaper to run, smarter, safer with lower emissions; and ultimately create cleaner air. As part of this deal and the wider The ‘Construction Sector Deal’ sets out an ambitious partnership between the industry and Government that aims to transform the sector’s productivity through innovative technologies and a more highly skilled workforce aims to transform the efficiency of construction techniques through digital technologies like Business Information Modelling; reduce running costs through energy generation and storage technologies; and conduct research and development and demonstration programmes supporting innovations. The core aim of the project is to seamlessly combine four integrated layers with high structural performance, which would provide high levels of insulation, a healthy indoor environment, high aesthetic value, along with CO2 capture, and greywater management. The competitive advantage of the Green INSTRUCT panel is (1) sustainable and cost effective - using more than 70% wt. C&DW including concrete, bricks, plastic, metals; (2) safety and energy efficiency - meeting Eurocode standards for fire safety, thermal insulation with U-value of 0.14 W/m2.K and acoustic insulation coefficient under 60dB and (3) Customisation potential -multi-layered, modular & prefabricated building block for new and old building. This paper will discuss key project achievements in terms of material development and innovation and challenges faced so far during the project.
Design and application of sensitive thermal energy storage from concrete.
Authors: Rusovs D , Jaundālders S , Stanka P
Published: December 2019

The main objectives of the authors’ current paper include thermal sizing of a regenerative concrete heat exchanger for coupling of the biomass plants and the heat engine like ORC (Organic Rankine Cycles). The main challenge for regenerators is the temperature difference between charging and discharging process. Heat energy charging can be done by hot flue gas or high temperature fluid circulation through solid modules of storage. Optionally heat supply can be obtained by using of electrical energy. The concrete modules contain embedded piping for charging and discharging and definition of the geometric parameters like piping size and distance represented in current work. The application of unsteady heat transfer equations for heat storage description was checked by comparison with experimental and theoretical results. The paper offers equations for evaluation of storage efficiency for different heat transfer coefficient, dimensions of storage and time duration of warming and cooling process.
Computer Simulation of Kinetics of Parallel Mechanisms
Authors: Mkrtychev O V , Kartygin A V
Published: December 2019

The paper considers the issues of kinematics and dynamics of a parallel mechanism and computer simulation of its movement. To solve the problems of dynamics of parallel mechanisms, the method of Lagrange equations of the second kind was used. In computer modeling, the Matlab and Simulink application were used.
Experimental studies of rotatory rolling of long thin-wall pipes
Authors: Lavrentiev A M
Published: December 2019

The article considers the application of rotatory rolling of the external surface of a long thin-wall pipe. The author studied the possibility of correcting the form of a thin-wall pipe outer diameter by means of rotatory rolling with cylindrical rollers having a rectilinear generator and set for a self-tightening angle with a simultaneous decrease of the processed surface roughness. Further, the author provide a photo of the measuring device used to define the circular deviation of a thin-wall pipe surface. A polar diagram of the pipe surface as-delivered and its profile record were made. The article provides a photo showing the adjustment process of a rotatory reeling machine with three deformation rollers for treating long thin-wall pipes in the system of a general purpose lathe. The experiment results are presented in the form of a polar diagram and the treated surface profile record. It is shown that after rotatory rolling the circular deviation decrease to 0,1 mm while the surface roughness decreased from Ra 1,83 um to Ra 0,23 um.
Experimental research of features of surface treatment using plastic deformation
Authors: Oteny Ya N , Lavrentiev A M
Published: December 2019

This study is devoted to the processing of external cylindrical surfaces by surface plastic deformation. The slip-page of tapered rollers during rolling of cylindrical samples made of steel 35 and 45 has been studied. A diagram is presented for determining the slippage during treatment by surface plastic deformation, as well as a section of a diagram chart with signal recording. It is according to this section that the pulses from current collectors in contact with roller surfaces and workpieces assigned to a specific recording length have been counted. The depth of penetration of the deforming roller into the workpiece and its effect on the roughness of the treated surface have been determined. The results of experimental studies are presented as graphs of dependence of slippage change on self-feed and penetration angles, of roughness on deformation rate as well on penetration and self-feed angle. It has been shown that the deformation force remains practically unchanged at self-feed angles ranging from 0 to 3 degrees. Therefore, a decrease in surface roughness of the treated samples can be explained by the presence of slippage of the contacting surfaces of the rolled workpiece and the deforming roller. It has also been found that if one installs a tapered roller with a smaller base in the feed direction, the roughness is slightly reduced, compared to installing the same deforming element with the same base in the direction opposite to the feed.