bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Analysis of Transverse Stiffness Distribution of Helical Compression Springs
Authors: Baran Robert , Michalczyk Krzysztof , Warzecha Mariusz
Published: January 2023

This paper presents the results of an experimental analysis of the distribution of transverse stiffness of cylindrical compression helical springs with selected values of geometric parameters. The influence of the number of active coils and the design of the end coils on the transverse stiffness distribution was investigated. Experimental tests were carried out for 18 sets of spring samples that differed in the number of active coils, end-coil design and spring index, and three measurements were taken per sample, at two values of static axial deflection. The transverse stiffness in the radial directions were tested at every 30° angle. A total of 1,296 measurements were taken, from which the transverse stiffness distributions were determined. It was shown that depending on the direction of deflection, the differences between the highest and lowest value of transverse stiffness of a given spring can exceed 25%. The experimental results were compared with the results of the formulas for transverse stiffness available in the literature. It was shown that in the case of springs with a small number of active coils, discrepancies between the average transverse stiffness of a given spring and the transverse stiffness calculated based on literature relations can reach several tens of percent. Analysis of the results of the tests carried out allowed conclusions to be drawn, making it possible to estimate the suitability of a given computational model for determining the transverse stiffness of a spring with given geometrical parameters.
Exploration of innovative learning ability cultivation based on logistic regression
Authors: Qi Chengming , Hu Lishuan
Published: January 2023

Innovative learning ability is the core competitiveness of university students, the essential ability of university students to solve problems and a fundamental quality that can be universally applied by university students in both theoretical and practical spheres. This paper analyses the necessity of innovative learning ability cultivation for engineering students in applied universities, and introduces constructivist learning theory into curriculum teaching. The logistic function is improved as 1/(1 + e
−αk

i

), and the value α varies with the number of iterations. Data are obtained through questionnaires; data analysis techniques are used to analyse the factors affecting the cultivation of creative ability in terms of the elaborate teaching processes, creative training courses, emphasis on social practice innovation, promotion of knowledge construction, creation of academic atmosphere and encouragement of questioning authority; and positive coping strategies are given.
Research on RCS measurement of ship targets based on conventional radars
Authors: Tang Huatao , Cha Hao , Liu Feng , Tian Bin , Wang Binbin
Published: January 2023

A measurement method and system based on conventional radars has been proposed to address the problem of radar cross-section (RCS) measurement of ship targets in open seas. Calibration errors for RCS measurement on ground plane range (GPR) are analysed, and the error elimination method and accurate RCS calculation formula are given. An RCS measurement system is designed by improving conventional radars. These systems measure two Luneburg lens reflectors of different sizes on the lake. The average RCS of the big Luneburg lens reflector is obtained, and the error is calculated to be 2.73% compared with its actual value, which verifies the rationality of the proposed measurement method and system. The system measures the RCS of a ship in the open sea and obtains its circumferential RCS distribution. The effect of the error in the ship's position calculation on the RCS measurement results is analysed, and the uncertainty range of the error is obtained.
Does monetary policy affect the stock pledge of listed companies? Evidence from Chinese listed companies
Authors: Liu Junling , Li Shuaifeng , Qu Jun
Published: January 2023

Based on the financing motivation of equity pledges, this study explores whether and how monetary policy adjustment affects the stock pledge behaviour of listed companies. The empirical findings show that monetary policy adjustments significantly affect the stock pledge of listed companies; that is, a tightening monetary policy increases the stock pledge phenomenon of listed companies, and an expansionary monetary policy reduces the stock pledge phenomenon. Heterogeneity analysis revealed that monetary policy had a greater impact on the stock pledges of non-state-owned enterprises, enterprises with weak government–enterprise relationships and enterprises without bank–enterprise relationship. The results of mechanism tests suggested that a quantitative monetary policy only affects the stock pledge behaviour of listed companies through financing costs and that a price-based monetary policy affects the stock pledge behaviour of listed companies through financing costs and financing scale. This article expands the literature on the impact of monetary policies on equity pledges and enriches studies on macroeconomic policies and microfirm behaviour.
Estimation of Two-Layer Soil Parameters Using Gradient Method Accelerated with Atkin’s δ
2 Method
Authors: Dautbašić Nedis , Dujak Dijana
Published: January 2023

An efficient method for evaluation of an optimal two-layer soil model from Wenner four-probe measuring method, which has been used during experimental investigations, is presented within this paper. A two-layer soil model is assumed, and this soil model is an adequate representation of nonhomogeneous soil for grounding system design. The application of optimization techniques is required to estimate the electrical parameters of the proposed soil model. In this paper, first the fast gradient-descent method to solve a given optimization problem is chosen, and then with the aim of faster calculation for accelerating the rate of convergence of an infinite sum, the application of Aitken’s δ2 method is proposed.
The Influence of Neutron and Gamma Radiation Fields on Gas-Filled Surge Arresters
Authors: Jusić Alija , Ramadani Uzahir , Nikezić Dušan , Osmokrović Predrag
Published: January 2023

The study examines the effect of neutron and gamma radiation on commercial gas surge arresters. The research is of experimental-theoretical nature. The experimental part of the research was performed un-der well-controlled laboratory conditions. The combined measurement uncertainty was about 5%. The experimental system is specially designed for the observed problem and has certain original solutions. The test procedure was fully automated and had software support in the experiment management and also for data collection and statistical processing. The obtained results show that neutron and gamma ra-diation improves the functional characteristics of gas surge arresters with a memory effect. The obtained results are explained in accordance with the theory of interaction of neutron and gamma fields with ma-terial and with the theory of electric discharge in gases. The results presented in this study are important for the design of surge protection in systems that can be found in the field of neutron and gamma radia-tion because they can achieve a positive synergistic effect of protection in hybrid schemes with other components for surge protection whose characteristics spoil this radiation.
Organic Materials for Electronic and Thermoelectric Applications
Authors: Akšamija Zlatan , Duhandžić Muhamed
Published: January 2023

In this invited review article, we give a comprehensive account of the existing literature on the electronic properties of organic materials. The main focus of this article is the rich and extensive literature on the electronic transport in organic materials, particularly conjugated polymers, as they offer numerous advantages over inorganic materials. Consequently, they have found widespread application in photovoltaics, light-emitting displays, and even, more recently, in thermoelectric energy conversion. This literature review will be useful to researchers starting in the field of organic electronics as well as experts seeking to broaden their understanding of transport in polymers.
The New Hungarian Legislation on Money Laundering and the Current Challenges of Cryptocurrencies
Authors: Ambrus István , Mezei Kitti
Published: January 2023

Money laundering is one of the most important criminal offences today, perceived in the context of economic operation. Nevertheless, money laundering is a constantly changing phenomenon that is also influenced by the latest technological advancements. In this study, our aim is, after briefly outlining the phenomenon of money laundering, to review the new statutory definition(s) and those assessment criteria that may also be of significance for legal practice in this context from 2021 onwards in Hungary. Subsequently, we will describe the current challenges of cryptocurrencies regarding the new Hungarian and EU legislation on money laundering. The method we use is criminal law-dogmatic and retrospective analysis. The analysis concluded that the Hungarian legislator has significantly broadened the scope of money laundering, and a much wider spread of this offence is predicted for the future.
Machine Learning and Regularization Technique to Determine Foreign Direct Investment in Hungarian Counties
Authors: Singh Devesh , Turała Maciej
Published: January 2023

Recent studies show regional factors play an important role to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and, the performance of these factors varies within the country. Therefore, it is important to develop a measurement system to analyse the insight of these FDI factors. In this study, we used the regularization method with machine learning to get insight into the FDI determinants at the regional level. We used 18-years post-socialist period data at the county level from Hungary and applied a machine learning algorithm on different methods of regressions such as a linear, ridge, lasso, and elastic net. We analyse the relation of two dependent variables, the total amount of FDI inflow in a county and disparity of FDI inflow in companies within the county, and used urbanization, GDP per capita, labour productivity, market share of the companies, agglomeration of industries, and growth rate of the companies as predictors. Our results show that the elastic net is the best method to determine the predictive performance of FDI at the regional level.
Errare Humanum Est. The Right of Businesses to Make a Mistake and the Inspection Process
Authors: Hołda-Wydrzyńska Anna
Published: January 2023

The statement errare humanum est undoubtedly takes on particular importance in the course of inspection proceedings, in particular as businesses are often lost in the maze of legal regulations. In order to make doing business easier, a new provision was introduced to the Polish Business Act from 6 March 2018 – “the right to make a mistake”. The paper aims to present a consideration of the essence of “the right to make a mistake” by businesses, looking at the procedures for correcting established violations of legal regulations by recently started businesses, as well as the negative aspects of exercising the right. The paper uses the formal-dogmatic method of analysing legal regulations. The presented conclusions may be particularly attractive businesses that are just commencing their business activity, for which their short period of operation may turn out to be a mitigating circumstance in the case of an ongoing inspection procedure.
The Impact of Propanol, N-Butanol and Pentanol on Aqueous Dispersions of Sonicated Liposomes. EPR Study
Authors: Bartnikowska Agnieszka , Pytel Barbara , Man Dariusz
Published: January 2023

This paper presents the effect of selected alcohols on the fluidity of liposome membranes obtained in sonication of DPPC lecithin. Using the EPR technique, the duality of propanol, n-butanol and pentanol on the behaviour of the aqueous dispersion of liposomes was demonstrated. It was shown that after exceeding a certain concentration, these alcohols initiate dispersion foaming, leading to phase separation: liposome dispersion - lipid foam. The influence of the shape of the molecule and the length of hydrocarbon chains on the effectiveness of destabilisation of the structure of lipid membranes was indicated.
The Synthesis of 2,2-BIS(1-INDOL-3-YL)Acenaphthylene-1(2)-Ones Using Nanocatalysis: Fluorescent Sensing for Cu2+ Ions
Authors: Mohammadi Ziarani Ghodsi , Khademi Mahdieh , Mohajer Fatemeh , Badiei Alireza , Varma Rajender S.
Published: January 2023

2,2-bis(1H-indol-3-yl)acenaphthylene-1(2H)-ones were synthesised by the reaction of acenaphthenequinone and 2 equivalents of indole using Fe3O4@SiO2@Si-Pr-NH-CH2CH2NH2 as the basic magnetic nanocatalyst, assembled under greener and sustainable conditions in high purity and yields. Furthermore, the photoluminescence properties of 2,2-bis(2-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)acenaphthylene-1(2H)-one were exploited for the sensing of copper ions in the mixed solvent systems comprising H2O and CH3CN in excitation wavelength at 410 nm with a detection limit of 9.5 ∙ 10–6 M.
Effect of Soil Application of Zeolite-Carbon Composite, Leonardite and Lignite on the Microorganisms
Authors: Wolny-Koładka Katarzyna , Marcińska-Mazur Lidia , Jarosz Renata , Juda Michał , Lošák Tomáš , Mierzwa-Hersztek Monika
Published: January 2023

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of mineral-organic mixture on changes in the abundance of selected soil microorganisms. The experiment contained: soil with NPK (nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus) + 3 % or 6 % lignite (MF+CW3 %, MF+CW6 %) and 3 % zeolite-carbon composite (NaX-C); soil with NPK + 3 % or 6 % leonardite (MF+CL3 %, MF+CL6 %) and 3 % NaX-C; soil without fertilisation (C); soil fertilised with mineral NPK fertilisers (MF). Plants participating in the experiment were spring wheat and spring oilseed rape. The presence of the selected microorganisms was determined: Azotobacter spp., actinomycetes, ammonifiers, bacteria and mold fungi. Using Koch’s serial dilution method, the abundance of selected soil microorganisms was performed. The conducted research allows to conclude that the abundance of detected microorganisms depended on both the applied fertilisation and the plant grown. For the spring oilseed rape, the highest abundance of microorganisms was determined in treatments where fertilisation with lignite mixtures was applied, while for spring wheat, with leonardite mixtures. Increasing (from 3 % to 6 %) the share of lignite and leonardite in fertiliser mixtures did not translate into a proportional growth in the abundance of microorganisms, so such a treatment has no economic justification. Given their alkaline pH, the mixtures used can be a substitute for calcium fertilisers to improve soil properties and, consequently, protect soil organic matter from degradation.
Beyond the Guidelines: Anticoagulant Treatment of Patients with Recent Portal Vein Thrombosis in the Setting of Liver Cirrhosis
Authors: Bogu Cosmin-Viorel , Siliște Roxana-Nicoleta , Cîrlan Mădălina , Spătaru Dan Victor , Gurghean Adriana , Săvulescu-Fiedler Ilinca , Shamim Umar , Constantinescu Gabriel
Published: January 2023

Portal vein thrombosis, in the clinical setting of liver cirrhosis, is a complication which increases mortality rate by leading to specific complications. Its presence also serves as a negative prognostic factor for these patients. Specialized literature, although rich in papers on this subject, presents loose and sometimes contradictory information regarding its prognosis and specific treatment. This paper brings into discussion the issue of recent portal vein thrombosis in cirrhotic patients, with emphasis on indications for initiation of anticoagulant therapy and the optimal drug of choice. It also highlights the utility of using correct terminology for facilitating clinical approach of guideline recommendations as well as increasing the quality of published scientific papers.

The coagulation homeostasis of the cirrhotic patient presents many particularities that can make the optimal therapeutic choice extremely difficult when portal vein thrombosis is established. Absence of randomized clinical trials and lack of consensus regarding anticoagulant treatment in these patients leaves it up to the clinician to decide when and what anticoagulant to use. Analysis of the newest guidelines and recent meta-analysis made it possible to identify the right context for initiating therapy with the most used anticoagulants currently: low molecular weight heparin, vitamin K antagonists and direct oral anticoagulants.
Challenges in Treatment and the Importance of Radiotherapy in a Synchronous Endometrial and Breast Cancer
Authors: Gaube Alexandra , Michire A. , Văcăroiu Ileana Adela , Balcangiu-Stroescu Andra , Georgescu D.E. , Georgescu M.T. , Tulin Raluca , Călinoiu Amalia Loredana
Published: January 2023

We report the case of a 69-year-old-female with synchronous endometrial and breast cancer. The imaging and pathology results confirmed the diagnosis. The patient underwent surgery and chemotherapy for endometrial cancer, and surgery followed by external beam radiotherapy for breast cancer. The patient’s clinical condition and imaging showed a favorable evolution after 2 months of follow-up.
Potential for preventing the risk of social exclusion of children in Early Childhood Education and Care in Croatia
Authors: Bouillet Dejana , Majcen Sandra Antulić
Published: January 2023

This study assumes that preventing the risk of social exclusion (RSE) of children, in the context of ECEC, entails guaranteeing ECEC availability and pedagogical practices that provide children with the necessary skills for healthy and successful development. This can be achieved by strengthening the protective factors in the child’s surroundings. The overall research goal was to determine the accessibility and describe the quality of attendance of children at risk of social exclusion in the Croatian ECEC system. The sample consisted of 3,500 children from 66 ECEC facilities, or 6% of all children aged 5 to 7 attending ECEC programs at that time, from 10.4% of all the ECEC facilities operating in Croatia. Data were collected through a questionnaire to assess the etiological and phenomenological aspects of RSEs among early years and preschool age children (ECEC teachers’ version). The research confirmed that RSEs did influence the children’s ECEC attendance. The greatest obstacles to accessibility of ECEC are risk of poverty and minority ethnic identity of children. Inconsistencies in the quality of the Croatian ECEC system are explained as a missed opportunity for the potential of ECEC to prevent RSEs.
Arts-based critical service-learning experiences as transformative pedagogy
Authors: Jacobs Rachael Frances
Published: January 2023

Initial teacher education programs regularly engage students in service-learning programs, providing an additional pathway to personal, professional and pedagogical transformation in their learning journey. One of those pathways is through service-learning placements in community arts projects. This paper reports on a study of arts-based service-learning programs at two universities. Eight initial teacher education (ITE) students were interviewed after their placements and a number of key themes emerged. These include the importance of productive discomfort as part of the service-learning experience and transformative pedagogy resulting from the art-based experience. This paper also explores some critiques of traditional service-learning models that have opened spaces for critical service-learning approaches. The analysis of ITE students’ narratives led to findings about the path of transformation from traditional to critical service-learning approaches through arts-based projects, an area which has been largely unexplored in previous research. The paper concludes with discussion of future avenues for related research that orientate service-learning in the arts towards social and creative justice.
Implementation of the legal framework for inclusive education in Portugal (Decree-Law 54/2018) – A qualitative assessment by primary and secondary school teachers
Authors: Ferreira Marco , Reis-Jorge José
Published: January 2023

Successful inclusive education requires school transformations and changes to the education system. In Portugal new legislation passed in 2018 (Decree-law 54/2018) brought a new perspective in inclusive education for all educational agents. Three years later, it is essential that the legislation is evaluated by the teachers implementing it. Forty-three primary and secondary school teachers and two coordinators of multidisciplinary teams providing inclusive education support were the participants of our study. The data collection instruments were a questionnaire and interviews. This study values the participants’ narratives, highlighting the new concepts and attitudes required for the implementation of the new inclusive education legal framework in Portugal. The results of the thematic analysis were organized around four key themes: 1. Theoretical representations; 2. Practices; 3. Challenges; and 4. Training. It is also worth noting the notions of collaborative work, the need for reflective teachers and the development of learning communities to support the implementation of the new legislation.
Determination of the Number of Required Charging Stations on a German Motorway Based on Real Traffic Data and Discrete Event-Based Simulation
Authors: Witt Andreas
Published: January 2023

To make travelling with electric vehicles (EVs) over long distances as convenient as travelling with traditional vehicles, charging stations along motorways are necessary. Furthermore, waiting times for free charging points must be short to enable a fast onward journey, and this also on days with heavy traffic volumes. To determine the required number of charging stations in more detail, a model was created that simulates the process of arriving and leaving cars at a charging park based on real traffic data. For the traffic data, a location and date in the Munich region were chosen that represent a peak demand and thus a “worst case” scenario. The ability to cover such scenarios as well seems to be important because otherwise severe congestion with long waiting times would appear on days with heavy traffic, which would make the use of EVs very unattractive. It turned out that 150 to 600 charging stations – depending on the considered scenario – would be necessary to charge proportions of 10% to 20% of all passing cars.
Effect of Set Accelerator on Capillary Suction and Porosity of Concrete – Cast Samples with Constant Water/Binder Ratio
Authors: Trussell Nicholas , Cepuritis Rolands , Jacobsen Stefan
Published: January 2023

Alkali-free set accelerators are added at the nozzle to ensure rapid set of wet sprayed concrete. The accelerator affects the strength development, porosity and transport properties, and hence the durability, of the sprayed concrete. We developed a method to cast samples with varying set accelerator doses to measure the effect of the accelerator on porosity, but with a constant effective water/binder ratio of 0.45 for each accelerator dose. Six cylinders of concrete were cast with set accelerator doses of 0, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 % of effective binder mass. High workability was achieved to enable mixing before rapid stiffening occurred, though this high workability led to some aggregate settlement in the cylinders. Porosity was measured by capillary suction on dried specimens of hardened concrete and subsequent pressure saturation of macro pores (PF test). The samples cast with higher doses of set accelerator had higher suction porosities and higher rates of capillary suction. Using a modified Powers equation gave very low calculated degree of hydration values for concrete with set accelerator, indicating that the equation is not applicable for concrete with set accelerators, due to the higher suction porosity in accelerated matrices, caused by different hydration products.
Failure Mechanisms of Fibre Reinforced Shotcrete: Numerical Simulations Considering Local Variations in Thickness and Bond Strength
Authors: Sjölander Andreas , Ansell Anders
Published: January 2023

Fibre-reinforced shotcrete is the most common support method for hard rock tunnels in the Nordic countries. The design of shotcrete is often based on empirical methods or simplified analytical equations, which neglect variations in mechanical properties and shotcrete thickness. Data collected from the field shows that significant variations in shotcrete thickness and bond strength should be expected during tunnel construction. However, how this affects the structural behaviour and capacity of the shotcrete lining is unknown. Moreover, the design philosophy for shotcrete assumes that the primary failure modes of shotcrete, i.e. bond and flexural failure, can be treated separately. This was derived based on observations of experiments in a laboratory environment. Therefore, the focus of a finalized doctoral project was to develop a numerical framework to simulate the structural behaviour of fibre-reinforced shotcrete in interaction with hard rock and rock bolts. The effect of variations in shotcrete thickness and bond strength was studied through numerical simulations to increase the understanding of its effect on the failure load of the lining. The results indicate that the most important parameter is the mean value of the shotcrete thickness and bond strength around a narrow perimeter of the block.’
Is Cement Paste Modified with Carbon Nanomaterials Capable of Self-Repair after a Fire?
Authors: Rajczakowska Magdalena , Szeląg Maciej , Habermehl-Cwirzen Karin , Hedlund Hans , Cwirzen Andrzej
Published: January 2023

This manuscript presents preliminary results on the cement paste potential, with and without carbon nanomaterials, to heal high-temperature cracks. Cement paste beams were subjected to thermal loading of 200°C and 400°C after 28 days of water curing. High temperature caused the formation of microcrack networks on the specimen’s surface. Self-healing was achieved by exposing the cracked samples to cyclic water immersion. The efficiency of the process was evaluated based on the crack closure and mechanical properties recovery after 24 days. The results indicated a distinct dependence of the healing on the loading temperature. Carbon nanotubes had a positive effect on self-repair efficiency.
Evaluation of SVC-Coupled Hybrid DSTATCOM using JLMS Algorithm for Enhancement of Power Quality
Authors: Mangaraj Mrutyunjaya , Sabat Jogeswara
Published: January 2023

This research study explains the design and performance of a Static VAR Compensator (SVC) coupled Hybrid Distribution Static Compensator (DSTATCOM) for low voltage power distribution system (PDS). A comparative analysisis done between Voltage Source Inverter (VSI)-based DSTATCOM and SVC Hybrid DSTATCOM using Jordan Least Mean Square (JLMS) algorithm to alleviate the shunt-related power quality (PQ) glitches. The specific design is obtained as compared to the existing neural network toolbox algorithm to improve the estimation speed and accuracy. The main objective is to extract the tuned weighted values of fundamental active and reactive power components of distorted load currents for the switching signal generation using an adaptive JLMS algorithm.Several functions of DSTATCOM and hybrid DSTATCOM using this JLMS controller are showcased for harmonics curtailment, power factor (p.f.) improvement, load balancing, voltage regulation, etc. Simulation results on an SVC Hybrid DSTATCOM have shown an acceptable level of performance under unbalanced loading situations. Finally, some comparative results are provided to validate the feasibility and effectiveness of the suggested topology.
Overheating in the Attic Space Classroom in Summer
Authors: Katunský Dušan , Vertaľ Marián , Zozuláková Silvia , Dolníková Erika , Hutkai Kristián
Published: January 2023

The presented study deals with the space located in the attic of an older building after reconstruction. Originally, the attic space was not used, as it did not have sufficient headroom. The reconstruction was designed in such a way that the entire original pitched roof was gradually raised by 1.2 meters in parts, creating a full-fledged space under the pitched pitched roof. The visual connection of the interior space with the exterior was ensured by continuous strips of vertical windows around the perimeter of the building, each window measuring 600x600 mm. The space is also illuminated by several skylights at roof level, which, although they ensure sufficient penetration of daylight from above into the interior, at the same time allow for considerably unpleasant overheating. The task was to find a way to optimize the size of transparent surfaces and determine the accumulation of building structures in order to achieve an acceptable cumulative effect of daylight and overheating, i.e., permissible increase in indoor air temperature in summer. It means trying to theoretically design a suitable and comfortable interior space in the attic in an already existing building.
Coconut Oil as Bio-based PCM: Characteristics and Compatibility with Plastics
Authors: Ostrý Milan , Bantová Sylva , Řezáčová Veronika
Published: January 2023

The current use of buildings is facing an unprecedented increase in energy costs, especially in the European Union. The energy costs can be reduced by energy savings and by increased use of renewable energy represented mostly by energy converted from solar radiation. When solar energy is considered to be utilized in buildings, the mismatch between energy availability and energy demand must be solved by energy storage. This paper describes the principles of the use of latent heat thermal energy storage and the possibility of using bio-based phase change materials as heat storage media. Because the latent heat storage media undergo a change of phase during the charging and discharging, proper encapsulation is necessary. The paper presents the main findings of a study focused on the compatibility between coconut oil and selected plastics as materials of encapsulation. The compatibility of selected plastics and Coconut oil was evaluated by laboratory experiment based on the immersion of plastic samples in coconut oil and calculation of change in weight of samples within 17 weeks lasting test. The negligible weight changes were occurred for polycarbonate and polyethylene terephthalate which proves excellent compatibility with Coconut oil.
Optimization of the Combined Effect of Lime and Ground Granulated Blast-furnace Slag on Clayey Soil
Authors: Nasreddine Diaf , Mustapha Hidjeb , Khaled Boudjellal , Mohamed Boudiaf , Ihcene Lamri
Published: January 2023

This work investigates the behavior of a silty clay stabilized with 3, 6, 9, and 12 % of ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS), respectively, and 1 % of quicklime used as an activator. The influence of the composite (Quicklime - GGBS) on the immediate behavior of the silty clay is studied by examining the Atterberg limits, the maximum dry density, the optimum moisture content, and the immediate bearing index. The evolution, at different curing periods (1, 7, and 28 days), of the mechanical characteristics of the treated soil, namely unconfined compressive strength, cohesion, and internal angle of friction is also studied. The increase, up to a dosage of 9%, of the GGBS content, leads to an increase in the optimum moisture content, the immediate bearing index, the unconfined compressive strength, and shear strength parameters. Paradoxically, a decrease in the plasticity index and the maximum dry density was observed.
Prediction of Deflection Behavior of NSM Strengthened Reinforced Concrete Beam Using Fuzzy Logic
Authors: Darain K. M. , Hossain M.A. , Jumaat M.Z. , Arifuzzaman M.
Published: January 2023

This paper aims to present a deflection prediction model of Near Surface Mounted (NSM) Reinforce Concrete (RC) beams using the Fuzzy Logic Expert System (FLES) with different types of membership functions (MF). The absence of a complete theoretical deflection prediction model of NSM-strengthened RC beams persuades this research to develop an Artificial Intelligence (AI) based prediction model using FLES. The proposed model uses triangular and trapezoidal MF to predict the deflection behavior of six NSM-strengthened RC beams. The research variables are strengthening materials and NSM bar length. In this study, two inputs (applied load and variable length) were used to predict two outputs (deflection of two types of strengthened RC beams). The relative error of predicted values was within 5% and the suitability of fit was close to 1.0 which affirms the efficacy of the FLES. Besides, a tiny difference was detected using triangular and trapezoidal MF for the prediction model.
Explicit Modeling of the Cyclic Behavior under a Large Number of Cycles: Application to the Case of Sand
Authors: Eddine Djessas Imed , Moussa Amrane , Salah Messast
Published: January 2023

The estimation of deformations after a large number of cycles is a major concern of geotechnical engineers. This paper presents an explicit formulation of the accumulated cyclic volumetric strain. This study is concerned with cyclic triaxial tests simulated through the calculation by the Finite Element Method. The parameters of identification of the first cycle (loading-unloading) are determined step by step, using, as a soil behavior model, the Soft Soil Hardening Model, then, the behavior of the soil after N cycles (N ---gt--- 1000) is simulated through the formulation proposed as a pseudo-creep. The comparison of the proposed method with several cyclic triaxial tests and a shallow foundation under cyclic loading approves the good compatibility of the proposed formula for this type of problem. This study does not take into account the effect of the grain size and the void ratio, things that can be translated by the coefficients C1 and C2.
Seismic Response of Concrete Gravity Dams Considering Hydrodynamic Effects
Authors: Linda Aouadj , Kadid Abdelkrim
Published: January 2023

This paper presents a dynamic analytical study to assess the effect of dam height as well as fluid compressibility on the gravity response of a concrete dam, considering the effects of hydrodynamic interaction. The analysis is carried out using the ADINA Finite Element software for empty and full reservoir conditions by considering several models. In the first model, the mass of fluid is taken into account by the concept of Westergaard added mass, in the second model; an acoustic fluid element is used to simulate the effect of water on the reservoir. The height of the dam is one of the main factors affecting the seismic response of gravity dams; because the change in height provides different responses depending on the natural periods, displacements and stresses obtained from static and dynamic analyses. The numerical results showed that the effect of interaction between the dam and the reservoir plays an important role in the precise estimation of the dynamic response of gravity dams. The hydrodynamic water pressure from the reservoir increases stresses in the dam body and horizontal displacements at the crest. The seismic response obtained by the incompressible water model (Westergaard) is compared with that of the compressible water model.
Effectiveness Assessment of Superplasticizer Admixtures: Case of Self-compacting Concrete Reinforced with Fine Mineral Fillers
Authors: Oualit Mehena , Irekti Amar , Hami Brahim
Published: January 2023

The use of superplasticizers in concrete production has become a common practice, especially when a high fluidity is required. On the other hand, the risk of segregation and the stability of these mixtures is ensured by the incorporation of a large volume of fine mineral additions. The present investigation is devoted to the study of the influence of three types of superplasticizers of different chemical compositions, namely: Combined Synthetic Polymers (CSP), Poly-Carboxylate Ether (PCE), and Modified Poly-Carboxylate Ether (MPCE) on the rheological behavior of self-compacting concrete (SCC) as well as on the mechanical properties at 3, 7, and 28 days of curing. Natural pozzolana (NP) and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) were used as additions to stabilize the mixtures. The results revealed that the ether-based superplasticizer PCE gave the best workability and mechanical performance with low amounts (high efficiency). In addition, blast furnace slag promotes the obtaining of better properties whether in the fresh or hardened state compared to natural pozzolana.
SSP-JCE Volume 17
Authors: Kabošová Lenka , Čákyová Katarína
Published: January 2023

The building industry, like many other industries, is driven to take a significant turn due to the pressing issue of global climate change. The potential in digital technologies and digital design approaches is pushed forward and exploited in architecture, structural, civil, and geotechnical engineering. The challenges such as the overheating of buildings and urban spaces, lack of drinking water, expensive and environment-aggressive building materials, and many more are investigated in more depth in Volume 17 of the Selected Scientific Papers - Journal of Civil Engineering.
Prevalence of football injuries among the people of Riyadh province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Aladhyani Abdulaziz , Hamad Eid , Almutairi Sultan , Deshwali Sanjay , AbdulElhakim Ashraf , Arshad Mohammad
Published: January 2023

Objective: This study aimed to find out the prevalence of football injuries among the population of Riyadh province, Saudi Arabia.
Methods: The study was performed as a questionnaire-based survey that was distributed among the population of Riyadh province through social media platforms (WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter). The responses were recorded and data analysis was performed in view of inclusion and exclusion criteria. At the same time, the data about the level of Vitamin D, calcium, and parathyroid hormone were also collected.
Results: Initially, the questionnaire was filled out by 324 participants, out of which 222 were involved in playing football. The finding observed that the most common injuries included lower limb injuries, chest injuries, abdomen injuries, ligament sprain, muscle spasms, bone fractures, and then joint inflammation. The level of severity of injuries was moderate and it was also observed that only 50% of them went to the hospital.
Conclusion: It was found that ligament sprain was the most common type followed by muscle spasm, bone fracture, and joint inflammation. Most of these injuries were of moderate severity. Most of the players who were injured restricted the sport without any physical effect while in some cases the effect could extend for 1 week or even 1 month affecting physical and psychological well-being.
A case report of late onset systemic lupus erythematous presenting with large pericardial effusion
Authors: Alhammyani Fahad , Mahgoub Essam , AlSharif Abdullah , Sarriyah Abdulhameed , AlMalki Meshal
Published: January 2023

Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multi-systemic autoimmune disease that affects multiple organ systems. Age at onset has become recognized as having a mediating effect on the clinical manifestation of SLE, late-onset presentations in individuals 50 years of age and older may represent a unique subtype of SLE.
Case Presentation: A 75-year-old Saudi female patient known case of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, osteoarthritis, and morbid obesity. She was presented to the emergency department with a history of shortness of breath and dysuria for 1 week. The patient was admitted to the regular ward and in the following day the patient was developed tachycardia and hypotension and increased serum creatinine 2.59 mg/dl. Then she was shifted to intensive care unit (ICU). In ICU, she was seen by cardiology and electrocardiogram showed atrial fibrillation and T-wave inversion in Lead ll, lll, AVF, and the transthoracic echocardiogram done showed ejection fraction 68% with large effusion around lateral and posterior wall 22 mm and mild effusion around right ventricle. Becks triad was excluded. There was no obvious cause for pericardial effusion at that time, autoimmune disease was suspected, and we consulted the rheumatology department. She was seen by rheumatologist and blood test of autoimmune antibody showed antinuclear antibody positive, anti-dsDNA positive, at that time confirmed diagnosis of SLE.
Clinical Discussion: Serositis is defined as pleural and pericardial effusions, up to 50% of SLE patients pericardial effusion may be seen, it is often minor and asymptomatic and it is more uncommon as an initial symptom.
Conclusion: We report a rare case of late onset of SLE presenting with large pericardiac effusion, which should be considered one of the rare first signs of SLE in older patient.
The knowledge and attitude of Saudi adults visiting a primary care clinic in King Khalid University Hospital toward genetic cancer screening
Authors: Mujamammi Ahmed , Sabi Essa , Aldrgam Abdulaziz , Alsaif Faisal , Alyamani Abduljabbar , Alfaiz Fahad , BinMayouf Mohammed , Aldossari Abduelah
Published: January 2023

Background: Genetic testing has become an invaluable tool for the fight against cancer. Yet the general population of Saudi Arabia shows a lack of awareness and utilization of this tool. This study aimed at assessing the knowledge, attitudes, and practice of the Saudi population toward genetic cancer screening.
Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted at King Khalid University Hospital, Riyadh. Participants were asked complete a self-administered survey to assess their knowledge, attitudes, and practice.
Results: Of the 217 individuals surveyed, relatively few had heard of genetic screening for cancer (16.1%) and even fewer had known what genetic cancer screening was (6.9%). Almost all participants had never been genetically tested before (90.3%). About 82.9% of participants would want to know their results if they were genetically tested and 60.3% were likely to share their results with family members even if they were indicated to have a low risk of cancer. Lifestyle changes were highly likely (84.3%) if participants had tested positive for cancer and general perception of medical advancements was positive (70.5%). Some of the perceived barriers toward genetic cancer screening were: lack of awareness of availability (68.2%), lack of knowledge of nearby clinics (67.8%), results of the test (53.4%), and fear of the effect on family (51.6%).
Conclusion: The general Saudi population demonstrated poor levels of knowledge of genetic testing and a lack of awareness that such a tool exists. Genetic Cancer Screening educational campaigns could be useful in increasing knowledge among the population and reducing the perceived barriers to testing.
الاثار الجيومورفولوجية للمناخ القديم وتأثيرها على النشاط البشري السهل الرسوبي ضمن محافظة الانبار دراسة حالة
Authors: Hamed Waleed Hanosh
Published: January 2023

يهدف البحث الى دراسة الاثار الجيومورفولوجية لمناخ البلايستوسين في اراضي السهل الرسوبي واثرها على النشاط البشري في منطقة الدراسة ومعرفة دور العوامل والعمليات الجيومورفولوجية في اراضي السهل الفيضي ضمن محافظة الانبار. اذ تهتم الدراسات التطبيقية في حقل الجيومورفولوجيا لمعرفة ألية تكون الاشكال الأرضية وتنوعها والعمليات الأرضية التي كانت سائدة في المنطقة مثل العمليات المورفومناخيه والهيدرولوجيا والتطبيقات الهايدروفومتريه اضافة الى كشف الموارد الطبيعية وتحديد ابرز طرق استثمارها او صيانتها والاستفادة منها . يظهر في منطقة الدراسة ترسبات البلايستوسين - الهولوسين وتغطي هذه الترسبات وبشكل لا توافقي اجزاء واسعة منها  .  تقع منطقة الدراسة في محافظة الانبار غرب العراق و تمتد بين مدينة هيت ومدينة الفلوجه حيث لعبت البنية التركيبية والخصائص الصخرية المنكشفة في اراضي السهل الفيضي اهمية في السيطرة على تطور الاشكال الأرضية المنتشرة في اراضي السهل الفيضي واستخداماتها ومن ثم انعكاساتها على نوع الاشكال الأرضية ومن ثم انعكاساتها على النشاط البشري السائد في منطقة الدراسة ضمن محافظة الانبار.
The use of the Jussive Articles (لم-lam, لما- lamma, لا الناهية- prohibition la, and لام الامر- imperative L prefix) In the Holy Quran and Their Realization in English
Authors: Salih Omaima Ismaeel , Salman Muhammad Barjes
Published: January 2023

This work tackles the  use of the first group of the jussive articles  (لم-lam, لما- lamma, لا الناهية- prohibition la, and لام الامر- imperative L prefix)  in the Holy Quran and their realization in English by consulting the opinion of four translators.

Each Ayah is used to show the effect of a single article on the imperfect verb after it. This effect differs from one verb into another according to the type of this imperfect verb;  The  “Quiescence” (السكون) if the verb ends with a consonant,  the elimination of the end vowel if the verb ends with a vowel and the elimination of N (حذف النون)  if the verb is among the Arabic five verbs (الافعال الخمسة).

 Each Ayah is analyzed in certain steps: the translation of four translators, the exeges of the certain Ayah, a grammatical analysis according to the opinion of the Arabic grammarians, and an analysis of the four translations adopted in relation to jussive.
A Conceptual Approach to Improving the Legal Regulation of Environmental Protection and Nature Management in the Arctic
Authors: Kudelkin Nikolai
Published: January 2023

The subject of the work is the legal norms regulating social relations that arise in the process of environmental protection and the implementation of various activities in the Arctic, as well as data on the features and state of nature of the Arctic region. The aim of the work is to formulate a special concept aimed at protecting the environment and ensuring rational use of natural resources, which can be used to improve legal regulation in these areas. The methodological basis of the study was a system of various methods, logical techniques and means of cognition; general scientific, private and special methods were used in the process of work. Such as analysis, synthesis, analogy, deduction, induction, formal legal and others. The relevance of the research topic is indicated by the fact that the Arctic is a unique region of great importance both for the environment of the planet and for various aspects of human life. At the same time, the Arctic nature is characterized by increased sensitivity to various impacts, such as economic activity and climate change. Accordingly, the Arctic region needs special legal regulation of environmental protection and nature management. The paper gives a general description of the Arctic region. The main threats to the Arctic environment are considered on the example of the Arctic zone of the Russian Federation. The main result of the work is the special concept proposed in it, aimed at protecting the environment and ensuring rational use of natural resources in the Arctic. At the same time, the main idea of the concept is to create a single natural and ecological framework of the Arctic. The paper emphasizes that the application of this concept for the improvement and development of domestic legislation should not only increase the level of nature protection in the Arctic, but also contribute to ensuring the interests of the country for the sustainable development of the region.