bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spirituality, Religion, and Health: Over the Last 15 Years of Field Research (1999–2013)
Authors: Lucchetti Giancarlo , Lucchetti Alessandra Lamas Granero
Published: December 2014

Objective:

Although several studies have examined the contribution of specific countries, journals, and authors in different scientific disciplines, little is known about the contribution of different world countries, journals, and authors to scientific research in the field of “Spirituality, religion, and health” (S/R). The present study aims to analyze the last 15 years of research in the field of spirituality and religiousness (S/R) through a bibliometric analysis.

Methods:

Using the Pubmed database, we retrieved all articles related to S/R field for the period 1999–2013. We then estimated the total number of publications, number of articles published per year, articles published per country, journals with most publications in S/R field, most productive authors, and most used keywords.

Results:

We found a growth of publications in the last years, most from the United States and the United Kingdom and published in the English language. Noteworthy, some developing countries such as India, Brazil, Israel, and Iran are at higher positions in this list. The S/R articles were published in journals embracing all fields of research, including high impact journals.

Conclusion:

In the present study, we took a closer look at the field of “Spirituality, religion, and health,” showing that this field of research has been constantly growing and consolidating in the scientific community.
Case Report of a Computer-Assisted Psychotherapy of a Patient with ALS
Authors: Pérez Ana Isabel García , Dapueto Juan J.
Published: December 2014

This case describes a psychotherapy intervention in a patient in advanced stages of ALS. The inability for verbal communication at these stages necessitated the inclusion of a computational system to favor augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) to provide psychological care. The association of this device and software with ongoing psychotherapy acted in a synergistic manner. AAC devices made it possible to maintain patient-therapist communication and provided material support for psychotherapy despite severe speech limitations. This bimodal protocol of intervention resulted in better symptom control, improved communication with the team and family, reduction of psychological distress, promotion of autonomy, dignity, and self-esteem. The novelty of this communication is to report how the regular psychological care could be adapted to the patient circumstances using a computer device. Clinical trials will be required to evaluate the effectiveness of this mode of psychotherapy for the general population of ALS patients.
Complex Possibilities: ‘Working Theories’ as an Outcome for the Early Childhood Curriculum
Authors: Hargraves Vicki
Published: December 2014

‘Working theories’ are described as one of the two principal outcomes of Te Whāriki, the early childhood curriculum in Aotearoa New Zealand. Despite its prominence as a curricular outcome, the theoretical positioning of the concept of working theory remains relatively undebated, with researchers readily attributing the term to a constructivist approach to children's cognitive development, or, in line with the current emphasis in New Zealand, to sociocultural theory. Drawing on a small scale study of children's working theories, this article will argue that constructivist and sociocultural theories do not adequately account for the sophistication of this concept in practice and that complexity theory and Deleuzian imagery would be more helpful for describing children's theory creation. Complexity theory and Deleuzian concepts are introduced as potential resources for enhancing our understanding of working theories and, further, for developing pedagogies that address contemporary ethical and political concerns.
Losing Sight of the Child? Human Capital Theory and its Role for Early Childhood Education and Care Policies in Finland and England since the Mid-1990s
Authors: Campbell-Barr Verity , Nygård Mikael
Published: December 2014

The international interest in early childhood education and care (ECEC) by supranational organisations, including the European Union, has grown considerably due to its dual function of sustaining parental employment and fostering child development. Focussing primarily on child development debates around ECEC, this article argues that human capital theory is the dominant rationale for investing in ECEC. The article discusses the development of ECEC in Finland and England, countries that are considered members of different family policy regimes. It explores the pattern of ECEC developments over time, the extent to which these developments have been framed as human capital investments, the extent that there are references to supranational policy imperatives, and whether there is a growing convergence between the countries around ECEC. Whilst we argue there is some merging in ideas around the function of ECEC in supporting parental employment, there are still differing interpretations when looking at child development that can be related to the cultural and historical origins of ECEC in the respective countries. We voice our concerns that the growing dominance of human capital theory in interpretations of ECEC is resulting in a very narrow view of children and ECEC services.
Reconceptualising the Child: Power and Resistance within Early Childhood Settings
Authors: Tesar Marek
Published: December 2014

This article reconceptualises the postmodern Child through the lens of Havel's work on ideology, power and subject formations. Set in an any ideologically charged early childhood setting, it analyses Havel's claim that all citizens, including children, are instrumental in maintaining the ideology of the establishment, and that they are both active creators as well as suffering victims of the system. Through this theoretical lens the author argues how childhood subjectivities are produced under the ideological umbrellas of government rationalities. The article analyses this through the example of tensions between dominant and resistant discourses in early childhood settings, and the formation of childhood subjectivities of victims, supporters and rebels.
Antidepressant effects of an inverse agonist selective for α5 GABA-A receptors in the rat forced swim test
Authors: Samardžić Janko , Puškaš Laslo , Obradović Miljana , Lazić-Puškaš Dijana
Published: December 2014

It has been shown in electrophysiological studies that the ligand L-655,708 possesses a binding selectivity and a moderate inverse agonist functional selectivity for α5-containing GABA-A receptors. The present study is aimed to investigate the antidepressant effects of the ligand L-655,708 in the forced swim test (FST) and its impact on locomotor activity in rats. The behavior of the animals was recorded with a digital camera, and the data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA, followed by Dunnett’s test. In FST, L-655,708 significantly decreased immobility time at a dose of 3 mg/kg after a single and repeated administration (p<0.05), exerting acute and chronic antidepressant effects. However, it did not induce significant differences in the time of struggling behavior during FST. Furthermore, L-655,708 did not show a significant effect on locomotor activity (p>0.05). These data suggest that negative modulation at GABA-A receptors containing the α5 subunit may produce antidepressant effects in rats. These effects were not confounded by locomotor influences.
Immuno-histomorphometric and -fluorescent characteristics of GH cells after treatment with genistein or daidzein in an animal model of andropause
Authors: Ajdžanović Vladimir , Medigović Ivana , Živanović Jasmina , Šošić-Jurjević Branka , Trifunović Svetlana , Tanić Nasta , Milošević Verica
Published: December 2014

Somatopause, the complex aspect of andropause, is recognizable by reduced growth hormone - GH/insulin-like growth factor 1 axis function in the ageing male. Soy isoflavones (usually genistein and daidzein), which are known for their beneficial effects in the treatment of ageing symptoms, are active in the pituitary, as well. The immunohistomorphometric and -fluorescent characteristics of pituitary growth hormone secreting cells, in an animal model of andropause, were examined after a treatment with genistein or daidzein. Andropausal Wistar rats were divided into sham operated, orchidectomized and genistein or daidzein treated orchidectomized groups. Genistein or daidzein (30 mg/kg/day) were administered subcutaneously for three weeks, while sham operated and orchidectomized groups received the vehicle alone. Growth hormone secreting cells were identified by the peroxidase-antiperoxidase immuno-histochemical, and immuno-fluorescent procedure. The main characteristic of growth hormone secreting cells in soy isoflavones treated groups is a weaker immuno-histochemical staining and immuno-fluorescent signal compared to sham operated and orchidectomized groups. The growth hormone secreting cell volume in orchidectomized +genistein or +daidzein groups is by 13.8% and 11.9% (p<0.05) smaller respectively, in comparison with the orchidectomized group. In orchidectomized +genistein or +daidzein groups, the growth hormone secreting cells relative volume density is by 62.5% and 61.0% lower (p<0.05) respectively than for the sham operated group, and decreased by 65.4% and 64.0% (p<0.05) respectively, compared to the orchidectomized group. It can be concluded that chronic genistein or daidzein treatment, in an animal model of andropause, attenuates immunohistomorphometric and -fluorescent characteristics of growth hormone secreting cells.
Influence of beta-glucan and vaccination against Lawsonia intracellularis on selected immune indices in weaned piglets
Authors: Kovačocyová Katarína , Reichel Peter , Seidel Herbert , Brenesselová Martina , Kósa Balász
Published: December 2014

The aim of this paper was to study the immunostimulating effects of feed additive containing beta-glucan given to pregnant sows and consecutive specific immunomodulation by vaccination of their suckling piglets. Thirty-five suckling piglets from the control and experimental group of sows were divided into four groups. Selected blood indices of immune profile (TIg, IMA, SI), specific antibodies against Lawsonia intracellularis formed in the blood serum of suckling piglets after vaccination, as well as production indices were observed. In all the groups, birth body weights were similar. After weaning, average daily weight gains were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the group of vaccinated suckling piglets, as well as in suckling piglets from experimental sows. The same trend was recorded in average TIg values. Significant effects (p < 0.01) of beta-glucan and vaccination were observed in the changes of the index of metabolic activity of phagocytes (IMA) and less markedly in the index of stimulation activity of lymphocytes (SI). The least favorable results were observed in the group without both vaccination and beta-glucan. The effect of vaccination was manifested by ELISA estimation of specific antibodies (PI), when in both non-vaccinated groups (A and D) we observed minimum antibodies levels compared with vaccinated groups (B and C), which showed a high positivity without significant differences between the beta-glucan stimulated (C) and the non-stimulated group (B). These results suggest that beta-glucan given to sows and consecutive vaccination of suckling piglets can stimulate their non specific and specific immunity.
Evaluation of the effects of Salvia officinalis essential oil on plasma biochemistry, gut mucus and quantity of acidic and neutral mucins in the chicken gut
Authors: Čapkovičová Adriana , Maková Zuzana , Piešová Elena , Alves Anabela , Faix Štefan , Faixová Zita
Published: December 2014

In this study the effects of Salvia officinalis L. essential oil on the thickness of the gut mucus layer and quantity of neutral and acidic mucins in chickens were observed. Oneday-old chickens of Isa Brown breed were divided into five groups (n = 9) and fed 11 weeks as follows: control group (C): basal diet; experimental groups (E1 - E4) - same as C + sage essential oil (EO) in concentrations of 0.01%; 0.025%; 0.05% and 0.1%, respectively. The thickness of the mucus layer in the duodenum significantly increased in E3(0.05% sage EO) compared to E1 (0.01 % sage EO). In E3 (0.05% sage EO) the number of goblet cells containing acidic and neutral mucins was significantly decreased in the duodenum and jejunum and increased in the ileum compared to C. Feeding the diet supplemented with Se and 0.01% sage EO (E1) decreased plasma cholesterol level in comparison with E3(0.05 % sage EO). The addition of 0.05% (E3) and 0.1% sage EO (E4) to the diet caused a decrease in calcium plasma level compared to E2 (0.025 % sage EO). Plasma glucose level was significantly decreased in groups fed 0.05% (E3) and 0.025% sage EO (E2) compared with 0.01% sage (E1). The weight of internal organs was not affected by the diets. Our results suggest that effects of sage EO on the adherent mucus layer dynamics and mucin type distribution in the chicken intestine are dependent on sage EO dose and intestinal segment and there is still a need for further studies in order to obtain a plausible explanation.
The Investigation of DNA Damage Induced by Adrenaline in Human Lymphocytes in Vitro/Ispitivanja Oštećenja DNK Izazvanih Adrenalinom U Limfocitima Čoveka in Vitro
Authors: Milena Radaković , Ninoslav Đelić , Jevrosima Stevanović , Marko Anđelković , Stoimir Kolarević , Stefan Dačić , Zoran Stanimirović
Published: December 2014

Adrenaline is a neurotransmitter and hormone that plays an important role in physiological regulatory mechanisms. The objective of this study was to assess primary DNA damage in isolated human lymphocytes exposed to adrenaline using the in vitro comet assay. Dose-response of human lymphocytes was determined at concentration range of adrenaline from 0.01 μM to 300 μM for various treatment times (1h, 2h, 4h and 24h). The obtained results showed that adrenaline induced DNA damage at concentration range from 5 μM to 300 μM after 1h, 2h and 4h of treatment. The slightest DNA damage was observed after 24 h of adrenaline treatment - only the highest concentrations of adrenaline (150 μM and 300 μM) caused increased level of DNA damage. In order to evaluate the potential contribution of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in adrenaline-induced DNA damage we used antioxidants catalase (100 IU/mL and 500 IU/mL) and quercetin (100 μM and 500 μM). Co-treatment of lymphocytes with adrenaline (300 μM) and antioxidants for 1 h, significantly reduced the quantity of DNA in the comet tails. Therefore, it can be concluded that adrenaline exhibits genotoxic effects mainly through induction of reactive oxygen species and that some of the DNA damage is repaired during the first four hours following the treatment with adrenaline.
Creation Nerves of the Lumbar and Sacral Plexus in California Sea Lions (Zalophus Californianus) and Northern Elephant Seals (Mirounga Angustirostris)/Formiranje Nerava Iz Lumbalnog I Sakralnog Pleksusa Kod Kalifornijskog Morskog Lava (Zalophus Californianus) I Severnomorskog Slona (Mirounga Angustirostris)
Authors: Damir Mihelić , Hrvoje Smodlaka , Suzana Tkalčić , Lauren Palmer , Gordan Mršić , Katarina Špiranec , Daniel Špoljarić , Maja Popović , Draga Mihelić
Published: December 2014

The lumbosacral plexus was investigated in the California sea lion and Northern elephant seal. In 9 California sea lions and 2 Northern elephant seals the femoral nerve rises from the ventral branches of the 3rd and 4th lumbar nerves, whilst in one male and two specimens of the Northern elephant seal the 5th lumbar nerve was also involved. Ventral branches of the 3rd and 4th lumbar nerves comprised the obturatorius nerve in 7 specimens; in 3 specimens the 5th lumbar nerve additionally supplements the obturatorius nerve. In Northern elephant seals the obturatorius nerve originates from the ventral branches of the 3rd, 4th and 5th lumbar nerves. The ischiadic nerve originates from the ventral branches of the 4th, 5th lumbar and 1st sacral nerves in 8 specimens California sea lions and in 2 North elephant seals. In 2 specimens of both species the 2nd sacral nerve also participates. The gluteal nerve created ventral branches of the 5th lumbar and 1st sacral nerves in three specimens; however in one specimen the 4th and 5th lumbar nerves gave rise to the same nerve in the Northern elephant seal. In California sea lions the gluteal nerve originates from the ventral branches of the 5th lumbar nerve in seven specimens, nonetheless in 3 specimens the 4th lumbar nerve also participates in its formation.
Effects of a Combination of Prone Positioning and High-Frequency Oscillatory Ventilation on Blood Gas Exchange in an Experimental Pig Model of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Efekti Kombinacije Ležećeg Položaja I Oscilatorne Plućne Ventilacije Visoke Frekvencije Na Razmenu Gasova U Krvi Na Modelu Sindroma Akutnog Respiratornog Šoka Kod Svinja
Authors: Jiří Žurek , Petr Dominik , Peter Košut , Miroslav Šeda , Michal Fedora
Published: December 2014

This animal study was conducted in order to verify the effects of combining highfrequency oscillatory ventilation and prone positioning and the order of application of both methods on blood gas exchange in an experimental model of acute respiratory distress syndrome.

Forty domestic pigs were used for the study. Saline solution washout was produced by bilateral lung lavage. The lavage process was repeated until adequate impairment of gas exchange (defined as PaO2 < 100 mmHg) 60 min following the last lavage was achieved. Subsequently, lung injury was established and each model was randomized to one of five groups, with differences in the type of mechanical ventilation used (conventional mechanical ventilation in accordance with the principles of protective lung ventilation or high-frequency oscillatory ventilation) and also in the positioning of the experimental model (supine position or mode changing prone and supine positions in a ratio 18:6 hours).

The best oxygenation was achieved in the group prone position + high-frequency oscillatory ventilation. The most favorable combination in terms of carbon dioxide elimination is the high-frequency oscillatory ventilation + prone position. The best results in terms of oxygenation index value were obtained in the combination of a prone position with the high-frequency oscillatory ventilation and in the prone position.

In conclusion, by using combinations of prone positioning and high-frequency oscillatory ventilation, one can achieve better blood gas parameters during acute respiratory distress syndrome.
Nosema Ceranae DNA in Honey Bee Haemolymph and Honey Bee Mite Varroa Destructor/DNK Nosema Ceranae U Hemolimfi Pčela I Pčelinjem Krpelju Varroa Destructor
Authors: Uroš Glavinić , Jevrosima Stevanović , Bojan Gajić , Predrag Simeunović , Spomenka Đurić , Branislav Vejnović , Zoran Stanimirović
Published: December 2014

Honey bee mite Varroa destructor and microsporidium Nosema ceranae are currently considered the most important threats to honey bees and beekeeping. It has been believed that both N. apis and N. ceranae invade exclusively epithelial cells of the honey bee ventriculus. However, some fi ndings suggest that these microsporidia may infect other tissues of honey bees. There are indications that these pathogens could be found in honey bee haemolymph, as the medium for its distribution to anatomically distant tissues. Knowing that V. destructor being an ectoparasitic mite feeds on the honey bee’s haemolymph, the aim of this study was to investigate if DNA of Nosema spp. microsporidia could be found in honey bee haemolymph and in V. destructor.

The study was conducted on bee haemolymph and V. destructor mites from 44 Apis mellifera colonies. From each hive five mite individuals and 10 μL of haemolymph (from 4-5 bees) were used as samples for DNA isolation and PCR detection of Nosema spp.

The DNA of N. ceranae was confi rmed in 61.36% of V. destructor mites and 68.18% of haemolymph samples. This is the first report of N. ceranae DNA in honey bee haemolymph and in V. destructor mites. The finding of DNA of N. ceranae in V. destructor could be interpreted as the result of mite feeding on N. ceranae infected bee haemolymph. However, for a full confi rmation of the vector role of V. destructor in spreading of nosemosis, further microscopy investigations are required for the detection of spores in both investigated matrices (haemolymph and V. destructor internal tissues).
SNP Genetic Diversity Within a Fragment of the Gene Myo15a Responsible for the Hearing Process in a Population of Farmed and Free-Living Animals of the Canidae Family/SNP Genetski Deverzitet U Okviru Fragmenta Gena Myo15a, Odgovornog Za Sluh U Populaciji Životinja Familije Canidae U Uslovima Farmskog I Slobodnog Uzgoja
Authors: Andrzej Jakubczak , Magdalena Gryzinska , Beata Horecka , Katarzyna Dziadosz , Grazyna Jezewska-Witkowska
Published: December 2014

The gene MYO15A is involved in the production of a protein included in the group of motor proteins known as myosins. Myosin XVA is located in the inner ear, the pituitary gland and other tissues, and has a substantial influence on the hearing process. Mutations in this gene cause amino acid substitutions in the conserved motor domain of the myosin chain, leading to shortening of the stereocilia in the hair cells, so that the function of myosin XVA is impaired. A research hypothesis was put forth that mutations in the gene responsible for the hearing process in animals of the Canidae family can cause hypoacusis, as well as substantial behavioural changes in dogs (ranging from timidity to aggressive behaviour). The study determined SNP polymorphism in a fragment of the gene MYO15A, which can cause hearing disorders or hypoacusis, in wild and farmed individuals of the Canidae family.
Detection of Listeria Spp. During Production and Ripening of Petrovská Klobása/Detekcija Listeria Spp. U Toku Proizvodnje I Zrenja Petrovačke Kobasice
Authors: Brankica Lakićević , Olivera Bunčić , Vera Katić , Zorica Lepšanović , Ljiljana Petrović , Vesna Janković , Predrag Ikonić
Published: December 2014

The aim of this study was to determine the survival of Listeria spp. during the preparation and ripening of an artisan Serbian sausage (Petrovská klobása) and to characterize the isolates by amplification of the hlyA gene. Results obtained by standard microbiological and molecular methods showed that during fermentation, drying, ripening and storage of Petrovská klobása, 17 out of 99 samples were positive for the presence of Listeria spp. Among them we detected a hemolytic, atypical, non pathogenic L. innocua strain FSL J1-023, whose genome sequence is important in understanding the role of horizontal gene transfer and recombination in the evolution of pathogenicity of Listeria. The most important product characteristics influencing the survival and growth of Listeria spp. during production and ripening of Petrovská klobása were: pH, water activity, temperature and starter culture.
Occurrence of Bartonella Henselae, Felv and Fiv Infection in 60 Stray Cats from Serbia/Pojava Bartonella Henselae, Felv I Fiv Infekcije Kod 60 Uličnih Mačaka U Srbiji
Authors: Aleksandar Potkonjak , Vuk Vračar , Ivan Stančić , Ljubica Spasojević Kosić , Dragan Bacić , Marko Cincović , Bojan Toholj , Ognjen Stevančević , Zoran Ristić
Published: December 2014

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of coinfection with pathogens Bartonella henselae, feline immunodeficiency virus, and feline leukemia virus in stray cats from the area of Novi Sad and Belgrade, Serbia. Each of 60 individual cats was clinically examined and the blood sampled. Therewithal an epidemiological survey was made. Blood sera were separated by centrifugation and serologically tested in order to determine the presence of Bartonella henselae specific antibodies (by direct immunofluorescence assay), feline immunodeficiency virus specific antibodies (by rapid test SNAP Combo) and feline leukemia virus antigens (by rapid test SNAP Combo). Of the 60 cat sera, serologically examined using IFA test, 33 (55%) were positive for the presence of IgG specifi c to B. henselae antigens. A total of 13 (27%) of the 60 tested cat sera were positive for the presence of specific antibodies to FIV antigens. None of the 60 tested cat sera were positive for the presence of FeLV antigen. Of the 33 cat sera which contained IgG antibodies to B. henselae, 6 cat sera also gave a positive reaction to the presence of specific IgG antibodies to FIV; this was a coinfection seroprevalence of 10% in the total population of studied cats. The results obtained in this study indicate the presence of B. henselae and FIV coinfection in cats from Serbia, without FeLV positive cats. An increase in the manifestations of clinical symptoms in cats in which the serological tests determined coinfection with B. henselae and FIV is evident compared to those seropositive only to B. henselae.
Design and Construction of San Marcos Viaduct
Authors: Arribas David , González José Ignacio , Bernal Pablo , Pérez José María
Published: December 2014

The San Marcos viaduct, which is located into the Mexico D.F. – Tuxpan highway, crosses the San Marcos river gorge. The bridge stands out due to the height of its piers and the environment of the river. The tallest pier rises to 208 m and at the moment of the end of construction it has been the highest pier in the world for a bridge constructed with the balanced cantilever method.
Panama Canal expansion project – description third set of locks project
Authors: Spengler Rüdiger , Imedio Jesús , Pérez Rafael , Casanova Federico
Published: December 2014

The construction of the third set of lock sets is part of the expansion program of the Panama Canal. Aim of the program is to allow longer and higher loaded vessels to transit the existing canal.

The main components of the expansion program are:

Project of the third set of locks, the most important part of the program and topic of the present paper. Two lock complexes of three levels with water saving basins are built at each ocean side – one at Atlantic and the other one at Pacific side.

Excavation of access canals

Widening and deepening of access canals and elevation of Gatun Lake water level
Metropol Parasol Construction of a Timber Structure
Authors: Sánchez Angel , Sánchez Ramón , Ortiz Fco. Javier R.
Published: December 2014

The Project involves the redevelopment of a 30.000m2 plaza in the heart of Sevilla (España) so as to integrate a traditional market and a museum. The main element of the building is a huge 3D timber structure spanning 50m and rising 25m, called Parasol. Its changing geometry evokes the shape of giant mushrooms that provide shade to the overall plaza. The structure elevates and closes back onto itself allowing the creation of interior spaces to locate a restaurant. A walkway runs on top of the parasol above the city skyline providing superb views.
Experiments on Damage and Measures of Bridges by Tsunami
Authors: Abukawa Takahiro , Hasegawa Akira
Published: December 2014

Many bridges suffered serious damage in the 2011 Japan Tohoku Earthquake off the Pacific coast. In this earthquake, the damage to bridges caused by the tsunami was more serious than that due to the tremors themselves. In particular, the superstructures of large bridges were swept away by the tsunami. Kesen Bridge is one of the largest bridges damaged by the tsunami, having 5 spans, and with a total length of 181.5 m. All of the superstructures of the 5 spans were carried upstream approximately 300 m. Consequently, an important route for the region was blocked off, causing significant delays in the relief and restoration of the damaged area. The authors conducted hydraulic experiments in order to understand the forces that tsunami exert on bridges, and to consider corresponding measures for bridges that will be effective against tsunami. With respect to one such measure, an experimental study was performed to determine whether the force of a tsunami can be reduced by attaching fairings to a bridge, two types of fairing being investigated.
The Portuguese River Douro Bridges - the Designer and the Aesthetics
Authors: Bastos Jorge N.
Published: December 2014

Prof. Edgar Cardoso (1913-2000) was a skilled structural engineer with a special aptitude on the design of bridges and the aesthetics. He considered that every site had an adequate bridge design solution. He was deeply committed to his concepts and will, and he would carry on with his ideas until the bridge was constructed. A native of Oporto where he graduated, he did some of his best original designs over the River Douro. The purpose of this study is to present several different designs, from this unique Portuguese bridge designer, spanning over this stormy river. The early 1955 Barca d’Alva multi-span arch, the 1957 Foz-do-Sousa arch, the 1963 Arrábida arch, the 1973 Mosteirô continuous truss girder, and the 1991 São João portal frame bridges, are few unique structural concrete examples of a prodigious creative mind, with more than 500 bridge studies.
Developing Structural Engineers to Meet Tomorrow's Societal Needs
Authors: Bell Glenn R.
Published: December 2014

The global challenges facing humankind over the coming decades require a new breed of structural engineer, more broadly capable than ever before. We must build international structural engineering coalitions to drive our profession forward, seizing the opportunity to assume leadership roles in helping society meet its grand challenges.
Assessment of the structural safety of reinforced concrete balconies
Authors: Mans Dik-Gert , de Jonker Martin , Wijte Simon
Published: December 2014

This paper reports about the structural safety of cantilevered reinforced concrete balconies of apartment buildings in the Netherlands. The concrete floor of this type of balconies is between 80 mm and 150 mm thick. This type of balconies was mainly constructed between 1950 and 1970.

After a collapse of a balcony situated at the 9th floor level of an apartment building, investigations started to the causes. Pit corrosion of the reinforcement, induced by chlorides, had reduced the cross section of reinforcement steel. Besides that, the position of the reinforcement was 10% lower as prescribed in the design and the permanent loads were 28% higher as assumed in the design. As follow up, the structural safety of another eleven buildings with similar balcony structures were assessed. In six of the eleven buildings measures related to structural safety had to be taken.

It was clear that owners of this type of building in the Netherlands need to assess the risk of lack of structural safety. To promote an efficient assessment of the structural safety, a step by step method was developed. In the step by step method three specific risks are evaluated: pit corrosion, a lower position of the reinforcement as described in the design and higher permanent loads as assumed in the design. For the assessment of existing structures, lower partial safety factors are used. With drawings and calculations of the structure and the results of non-destructive tests a first check of the structural safety can be done. After that, the sensitivity of the structure to cracks and corrosion of the reinforcement are estimated. If the sensibility is low, further investigations are postponed, if not further investigation into the presence of chlorides and corrosion rate is necessary. The assessment ends with a conclusion: the structural safety meets the requirements or measures have to be taken.
Reliability-Based Design Optimization of a CFRP Bridge
Authors: Rodriguez-Sanchez Julio , Chiachío Juan , Chiachío Manuel , Rus Guillermo
Published: December 2014

Juan CHIACHIO
 PhD. Civil Engineer University of Granada Granada, Spain
Guillermo RUS
 Professor

 University of Granada Granada, Spain
Manuel CHIACHIO PhD. Civil Engineer University of Granada Granada, Spain
 In this paper, a new all-composite fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) bridge typology is introduced. The structural system is composed by 4 families of 5 carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) symmetrically disposed straps, connected to 4 corner-supports and combined with a central CFRP strap. A glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) deck rests on top of several GFRP variable-section beams, which transfer the loads from the deck to the main net of CFRP laminates. Every structural component of the bridge is bonded by an adhesive resin to the others in contact with it. The bridge is simply-supported at the four CFRP strap family supports and at the extreme GFRP beams that support the deck plate. This way, the span of the bridge is equal to its total length

 The new-concept of bridge was studied by a finite element (FE) model of the structure. This FE model was further used to adjust a surrogate model of the bridge that was subsequently used for the optimization algorithm. A damage evolution model was implemented in the optimization algorithm to consider the stiffness reduction due to fatigue damage during the lifetime. Finally, the optimum bridge was analysed, checking that it fulfils the structural requirements stated in the design code EC3-2.

 The results of this work is not only a new optimized bridge concept, but also a scientific design approach that allows us to conceive rational structural designs made with new materials.
Albolote-Santa Fé Overpasses. Granada External Bypass
Authors: Ramos Óscar Ramón , Martín Juan Francisco , Ortega Guillermo , Pantaleón Marcos J.
Published: December 2014

The New Granada Bypass launches from the connection with the A-44 highway (one of the main access paths to Granada) and extends along the Vega de Granada Metropolitan Area. Regarding the highway overpasses, a careful design has been established according to the important aesthetic impact these structures have on the road users. This design consists of a continuous prestressed concrete deck supported on a single point at the pier, and a special treatment of the cross section in addition of a remarkable global slenderness. In order to resist the seismic action, the project includes an innovative damping and isolating system, consisting on the combination of lead-core elastomeric bearings and sliding pendulous bearings.
Rehabilitation of Illerkanal Viaduct at Kirchdorf – A Steel Composite and Precast Concrete Structure
Authors: Seitz Peter
Published: December 2014

Illerkanal Viaduct is located in Baden-Württemberg, Germany. The bridge on the A7 motorway connecting Ulm and Füssen crosses the Iller canal and two rural roads north of Memmingen at Kirchdorf. The Iller canal feeds a hydroelectric power plant and could thus be closed only temporarily to demolish the existing superstructure while the substructures were reused to conserve resources. Due to the local and geographical situation, a steel composite deck was used to cross the Iller canal forming the main span while precast concrete deck was used for the end spans.

The relatively long center span was designed as a twin composite box girder, making it a relatively light structure. To balance out the center span and avoid bearing lift-off at the abutments the end spans were designed as double T-beams in precast concrete.

The basic idea for this arrangement was to move the point of zero moments towards the coupling joint of composite and precast concrete structure, i.e. the composite section is connected directly with a concrete cantilever thus is not supported directly by piers. In order to optimize steel plate thickness, post-tension was varied, thus the points of zero moments could be moved further towards the middle of the bridge.

This rarely used construction is a very innovative solution crossing a large span while having a solution for the resulting technical challenges.
Jarrold Bridge - A Unique Double Propped Cantilever Pedestrian Bridge
Authors: James Stephen , Woodier Daniel
Published: December 2014

The Jarrold footbridge opened to the public in January 2012, linking the new St. James Place development to the historic city centre of Norwich. As well as providing a crossing, the bridge invites visitors to linger, enjoy the river environment and make the most of distant views of the magnificent Cathedral.

The optimum use of materials is one of the key contributions to sustainability available to bridge designers. With Jarrold Bridge Ramboll aimed to maximise the sustainable use of resources. We have produced a structural design that is very lean. Everything is working and working hard, but doing so effortlessly. This has been made possible through the innovative use of sophisticated software in its development.

This paper relates the whole design and construction process. How parametric 3D modelling was used to trace the most efficient path through interwoven sustainable transport routes and the natural features of the site.

We describe how the form of the bridge evolved from the unique characteristics of the site and the engineering logic, which substantiates this subtle structure. We describe in detail the structural principles, which enabled the architectural concept for a unique bridge form that gently floats across the water with little apparent support.
The Copenhagen Kissing Bridge – A Bashful Landmark
Authors: Firth Ian , Bahra Amar
Published: December 2014

This opening bridge was the winner in an international design competition held by Copenhagen City Council during 2009. The elegant but subtly understated bridge has an opening span of 55m, a total length of 240m carries pedestrians and cyclists across the harbour between the heart of the city and the Opera House.

The central steel opening part is 7m wide and has a unique sliding mechanism, rolling back between the two fixed approaches, each 4m wide, with one for cyclists and one for pedestrians. This unique opening system creates an experience which is expected to become a popular city centre attraction as well as an important new transport corridor for cyclists and pedestrians.

This paper describes the design concept and evolution, and addresses the integration of architectural ideals and engineering requirements to produce a solution sensitive to its urban context.
Innovative designs in bridges and footbridges
Authors: Reventós Manuel , Guàrdia Jaume , Mora Rosa
Published: December 2014

In times of economic austerity, especially in Spain, the bridge designing is a tough job, the administrations don’t allow any deviation in budget neither delays in planning. In this context the challenge is to design bridges and footbridges that accomplish it’s functional and structural purposes, but using the structural formalism to bring personality to the design without forgetting the environment integration. All to make attractive bridges according to the society demands.

These points are shown in these works selection of our office:

Farigola Footbridge placed in Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, and finished in 2012.

The footbridge over ‘Raval de la Mar’ road in Vila-Seca, Tarragona and finished in 2013.

The railway bridge over ‘Raval de la Mar’ road in Vila-Seca, Tarragona and finished in 2013.

Llobatona Footbridge in Viladecans, Barcelona, the construction is scheduled for the 2014.

New Bridge in Caldes Montbui, Barcelona, currently under construction.
Viaduct over the Tera River on the HSR line Madrid-Galicia, Zamora (Spain)
Authors: Manterola Javier , Munoz-Rojas Javier , Martínez Antonio , Fernández Sara
Published: December 2014

The Tera Viaduct is situated over the Tera River between km points 710+697.500 and 711+342.500 of the north-northeast corridor of the Madrid-Galicia high-speed railway line. It is therefore 645 m long with a span distribution of 60-75-150-75x5-60. Such arrangement, with one large 150 m span, is determined by the crossing of the Tera River, spanned by an arch. The deck is supported in the arch keystone, which enables constant modulation of the spans throughout the whole viaduct, keeping the same deck cross section and using incremental launching as construction method. The metal section arch was installed by rotating the semi-arches.
Seismic Design of the Self Anchored Suspension San Francisco Oakland Bay Bridge
Authors: Nader Marwan , Duxbury James , Maroney Brian
Published: December 2014

The seismically vulnerable East Span of the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge is being replaced with a dual east bound and west bound 3.6 km long parallel structure. The Bay Bridge lies between the Hayward and the San Andreas faults which can generate magnitude 7.5 M and 8.1 M earthquakes, respectively. Four distinct structures make up the bridge crossing: a low rise post-tensioned concrete box girder near the Oakland shore; a 2.4 km long segmental concrete box girder; a self-anchored suspension signature span; and a post-tensioned concrete box girder that connects to the east portal of the Yerba Buena Island tunnel. This paper focuses on the design parameters and constraints, the design evolution, the bridge type selection process, the selected design’s major structural and architectural characteristics, and the structural details.
Use of Parametric Design techniques applied to Civil Engineering
Authors: Bögle Annette , Ortolano José M. , Romo José
Published: December 2014

Parametric Design has appeared recently for expressing a new paradigm in the field of design. This new methodology has been applied recently in the field of architecture. However, in the case of Civil Engineering, the number of examples that illustrate the use of parametrics is almost non- existent. This paper describes the main characteristics and the methodology of Parametric Design as a technique to solve the form-finding problem. A study of the main implications of these techniques for solving engineering problems is carried out. Finally, an implementation in a common engineering problem illustrates this new paradigm.
Bonded Hybrid Slabs of Light-Weight Concrete and Glued Laminated Timber
Authors: Zauft Doreen , Schmid Volker , Polak Maria Anna
Published: December 2014

Typical wooden beam ceilings often have problems with excessive vibrations and inadequate sound insulation. Due to increasing live loads and a stronger sense of safety over the years, wooden beam ceilings with a span up to 10 m cannot fulfill the serviceability limit states of Eurocode 5. A concrete layer applied to the timber increases the stiffness of the whole structure and thus contributes to the improvement of serviceability performance. In such applications, both materials are utilized according to their mechanical properties; the concrete is used in the compression zone and the wood in the tension zone. Such a composite construction is advantageous not only for rehabilitation, but also for new construction as a prefabricated segment, especially due to its low weight compared to concrete elements.
High capacity saw tooth connectors – experimental testing and numerical studies
Authors: Tandler Jens , Schmid Volker , Reimer Andreas
Published: December 2014

Saw tooth connectors are designed to transfer significant concentrated forces between steel members and slender concrete slabs, when traditional steel to concrete connections like headed studs are not strong enough. This paper presents the results of the first experimental study of saw tooth connections in order to clarify the ultimate load and the load displacement behaviour. In this context the fracture of structural concrete subjected to compressive forces is reviewed.
A Slender Transparent Glass Supported High-Strength Steel Column
Authors: Snijder H. H. , Dierks D. , Huveners E. M. P. , Spoorenberg R. C.
Published: December 2014

Modern architecture requires transparent and slender structural elements for columns. Usually, flexural buckling is the dominant failure mode of steel columns. If flexural buckling can be suppressed, the full yield stress may be utilized. Then, it makes sense to use high-strength steel. In this paper, a slender transparent glass supported steel high-strength steel column is designed, tested and numerically analysed. It consists of a 32 mm diameter Dywidag steel bar restrained against flexural buckling by four heat strengthened float glass panes, thus having sufficient redundancy allowing for a glass pane to break without column failure. The glass panes are connected to the steel bar by sliding steel sleeves avoiding direct stresses due to axial column deformation to occur in the glass panes. The column is one story high with slightly shorter glass panes keeping them free from roof and floor. The paper shows the feasibility of the glass supported high-strength steel column.
Queensferry Crossing: Design development through construction
Authors: Curran Peter , Kirk Martin , Raynor Dan
Published: December 2014

The Queensferry Crossing (part of the Forth Replacement Crossing project) is a new road bridge being constructed across the Forth Estuary in Scotland for the client, Transport Scotland. The bridge is 2.6km long, including a cable stayed structure with 2 main spans each of 650m and an approach viaduct from the south,

This paper describes progression of elements of the design as it has developed and challenges, to date, met during construction.

The design has been carried out in accordance with Eurocodes. Departures from standard and modification of design rules have been necessary in the detailed design phase. This has included studies and tests carried out to ensure adequate shear and torsion transfer capacity across construction joints.
Accessways to the western Entrance to the “Dos Valiras” tunnel
Authors: Fernández Leonardo , Ayuso Guillermo , Fernández Lucía
Published: December 2014

The “Dos Valiras” Tunnel connects the valley of the river Valira del Nord (Northern Valira) with that of the river Valira de Orient (Eastern Valira). At its western extreme it reachs into the Valira del Nord which it crosses by means of two bridges. These bridges give on to a large roundabout which is in great part significantly raised due to its hilly terrain. This has been achieved by means of a structure of pre-stressed concrete divided into six stretches joined by hinges. It is a public work of the greatest import, the most important ever undertaken in Andorra- leaving aside the large tunnels constructed recently
Stayed Viaduct in Bucaramanga, Colombia
Authors: Fernández Leonardo , Fernández Lucía , Ayuso Guillermo , Cano Antonio , González Raúl , Iglesias Celso
Published: December 2014

The Carrera Novena viaduct in Bucaramanga is situated over a wooded area of great environmental importance which must be respected. The proposed viaduct with a principal span of 292.4m and two compensation spans 129.2m long. The maximum height over the ravine is 75m and the piers of the viaduct have heights of 52m and 72m; for this reason singles piers have been used, over which the towers have been built which stay the deck in its axis. It is 30m wide because 6 lanes of traffic and 2m wide pedestrian walkways were planned. The structure of the deck is formed of a single- cell box girder with a trapezoidal section and a depth of 2.8m. This girder is extended laterally by slabs. Its width creates significant bending moments which are resisted by interior transverse triangulations and exterior struts every 3.4m. It is situated in a zone of high seismic activity and for that reason a structure has been adopted which is encastred in the piers and free in the abutments. It was constructed using successive compensated cantilevers, and concreted in situ.
Chilina Bridge over the Chili River in Arequipa. Balanced cantilever segmental bridge in high seismicity area
Authors: Capellán Guillermo , Sacristán Miguel
Published: December 2014

Chilina Bridge is a 562 long prestressed concrete viaduct with two 11.3 m wide decks in the city of Arequipa (Peru) with span scheme: 100+157+142+102+61 m. Free Cantilever Method construction is used. High seismicity in the area reaches Peak Ground Acceleration of 0.6 g and involves special analysis and detailing. The new bridge will become the largest urban bridge in Peru when completed. Construction started in March 2013 and will be finished by the end of 2014.

Seismic analysis is done according to AASHTO specifications for a 1000 year return period Earthquake. Seismic displacement demands are as high as 90 cm and 45 cm in transverse and longitudinal direction.