bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FATIGUE BEHAVIOR AT THE UPPER END OF VERTICAL STIFFENERS CONNECTED WITH SWAY BRACINGS
Authors: Sakamoto Chihiro , Sakano Masahiro , Konishi Hideyuki , Koyama Masahiro
Published: March 2020

Lots of fatigue crackings were reported at the upper end of vertical stiffeners connected to sway bracings in steel highway girder bridges. In this study, we investigate fatigue cracking behavior at the upper end of vertical stiffeners under RC slab, through fatigue tests using a large specimen with three main girders under alternative loading using two actuators. As a result, alternative loading can reproduce the alternative stress at the upper end of vertical stiffener in the middle girder when vehicles run on the driving lane and passing lane alternatively. Root cracks were initiated after 0.1 Mcycles loading and appeared on the bead surface when 0.6 Mcycles.
SEISMIC BEHAVIOR OF POST-TENSIONED ROCKING COLUMNS WITH RE-PLACEABLE ENERGY DISSIPATERS
Authors: Hung H. H. , Huang C. W. , Jiang C. R.
Published: March 2020

To mitigate the column damage during seismic events and to reduce the recovery time after a major earthquake, a post-tensioned bridge column with a rocking interface above the foundation and externally-installed energy dissipation devices was proposed. The energy dissipation devices were specially designed to serve as fuse elements that can be easily replaced after yielding. In addition, a mechanical joint that can rotate freely in all directions was incorporated at one end of the dissipater to ensure bending was not transmitted into this device. To verify the seismic performance of the proposed system, two proposed specimens with different prestressing forces and design details in the rocking base were constructed and tested. From the experiments, it was found that the proposed post-tensioned specimens suffered minor damage after cyclic loadings. All of the damage was concentrated on the inelastic deformation that occurred at the external energy dissipaters. The ease of replacement for the external energy dissipaters was also confirmed.
MEASUREMENT AND COMPARISON OF SNOW DENSITY ON GROUND AND ROOF
Authors: Qingwen Zhang , Zhicheng Ren , Shiyu Wang
Published: March 2020

With the intensification of global climate changing, the human and economic losses caused by snowstorms becomes higher and higher. Harbin, located in the north of China, has the geographical advantage of heavy snowfall, the density and the distribution of snow on the ground and roof were measured. In the aspect of snow density, the snow density on ground and roofs were measured. The snow is divided into three kinds, and the range of snow density is roughly determined. By comparing the two kinds of measurements on both fields, the effects of location, snow thickness and temperature on snow density are specified. Also, the differences of snow density on both ground and roof, new snow and old snow are got. The results show that the old snow density is greater than the new snow density. The snow density of the roof area is obviously larger than that of the ground area; the ground snow density increases with the accumulation of snowfall.
NUMERICAL INVESTIGATION OF THE BEARING CAPACITY OF TRANSVERSELY PRESTRESSED CONCRETE DECK SLABS
Authors: Amir Sana , van der Veen Cor , Walraven Joost , de Boer Ane , Walraven Joost C.
Published: March 2020

The paper investigates the effect of various geometrical and material parameters on the bearing (punching shear) capacity of transversely prestressed concrete deck slabs by numerical methods. Experiments on a 1:2 scale model of such a bridge were carried out in the laboratory and a 3D nonlinear finite element (FE) model was developed in the finite element analysis software package TNO DIANA (2012) to study the structural behavior in punching shear. A comparison of the experimental and numerical ultimate loads show that the non-linear FE models can predict the load carrying capacity quite accurately with a standard deviation of 0.1 and the coefficient of variation of only 10%. The effect of varying the transverse prestressing level, the presence and size of the ducts, size of the loading plate and the concrete class is also described as part of the parametric study. It was observed that sufficient saving in cost could be made if calibrated numerical models are employed to investigate existing structures rather than doing expensive experimental studies.
THE STATIC BEHAVIORS AND NUMERICAL PREDICTION ON DISPLACEMENT OF AN EXISTING ARCH DAM
Authors: Tatsuo Nishiuchi
Published: March 2020

In order to estimate the seismic safety of existing arch dams, it is essential to assess the static behavior and the mechanical resistance of arch dam. Numerical analysis model for transverse joints (contraction joints) of the arch dam is developed considering the separation, sliding and re-contact behaviors of contraction joints. The static behaviors of an arch dam under annual change of temperature and water level were calculated by using non-linear three-dimensional finite element analysis method that incorporated the developed numerical analysis model of contraction joints. The displacement of the dam body was compared both in analysis and in measured data. At a result, the calculated results can give a good estimation for dam deformation of an existing arch dam caused by those loads. In addition, the effective arch zone was formed under consecutive contraction joints. Thus, the nature of load capacity mechanism was identified. Using these calculated results, the numerical prediction on the displacement of an existing arch dam was proposed for daily management.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDY ON SHEAR PERFORMANCE OF COMPOSITE CONNECTOR FOR PRECAST CONCRETE SANDWICH PANELS
Authors: Zhai Ximei , Ying Wenjian , Xueming Wang
Published: March 2020

In order to ensure desirable overall performance between interior panel and exterior panel for precast concrete sandwich panels, the shear performance of a new composite connector is investigated in this paper through the experiment of shear specimens, including 4 groups of bilateral shear test specimens and 8 groups of unilateral shear test specimens. The connector’s shear capability and shear failure process phenomenon of destruction of all specimens are obtained. Then the effect rule on shear performance of connector from positional relation of connector and distribution reinforcement and concrete strength are gained. The experimental results and analysis show that the shear failure model is bending shear failure of connector’s reinforcing steel bar, which is brittle failure; the measured value of shear force of experiment compared to the measures values for the actual project, the new composite connector provides an enough safety reserve; The relative position of connector and distribution reinforcement and concrete strength have no influence on the ultimate bearing shear capability; The shear performance of the new composite connector could satisfy the use requirement of sandwich wall panels based on the text results. Furthermore, the connectors perform superb anchoring bond and deformation capability. According to the results and analysis, the new composite connector could be popularly used in engineering practice.
EXPERIMENTS AND FEM MODELS ON SEMI-COMPOSITE BEHAVIOR OF SRC STRUCTURES
Authors: Matsuta Takayuki , Kitajima Mikio , Maegawa Koji
Published: March 2020

Analytical models were prepared and results from these models were compared with experimental results to confirm the adequate modeling of steel-reinforced concrete members used in rockfall-protection galleries or rock-sheds. Static loading tests of steel-reinforced concrete members (a girder and a slab) were conducted on a simply supported beam. The analytical models have different contact conditions to verify which condition can express a semi-composite behavior and shear slide. Three types of contact conditions were applied: normal, tied, and tiebreak contact. Tiebreak contact can express the occurrence of gaps by defining shear bond strength. Consequently, analytical models that applied tiebreak contact showed comparatively good agreement with experimental results. Analytical models that applied the tiebreak contact condition showed a correlation of 97% (girder) and 101% (slab) with the experimental results for the maximum load-carrying capacity. Therefore, considering that slippage occurs between different materials, the model is good for expressing the behavior of complicated structures such as steel-reinforced concrete members that are used as a rock-shed.
EVALUATIONS OF REMAINING STRENGTH ESTIMATION METHOD BY USING PLATE GIRDER MODELS WITH CORROSION UNDER SLEEPERS
Authors: Asao Naoyuki , Fujii Katashi
Published: March 2020

In steel railway bridges with open deck system, the local buckling of compressive flanges under sleepers on plate girders caused by the local corrosion of flanges leads to the collapse of bridges. The local corrosion is thought to have a substantial impact on the ultimate strength of main girders. However, past research on ultimate strength contains few inquiries into the relationship between the local corrosion of compressive flanges and the ultimate strength of main girders, and a method of evaluating the relationship has not yet been established. In this study, parameter analyses that focus on plate girders with local corrosion under sleepers have been conducted by using full-scale plate girder models subjected to bending and local loads simultaneously. Then based on these analytical values and other existing experimental values, the study verified the applicability of the separate evaluation equations that we previously proposed for remaining load bearing capacity under bending and local loads respectively, as well as the remaining strength calculation method based on the strength interaction curve of plate girders subjected to bending and local loads simultaneously to clarify that ultimate strength can be evaluated with a high degree of accuracy.
EVOLUTION AND APPLICATION OF COST AND SCHEDULE RISK MANAGEMENT ON COMPLEX PROJECTS
Authors: Molenaar Keith
Published: March 2020

Design and construction of projects is complex endeavor that requires the coordination of a multitude of human, physical, and natural resources. The technical design and construction complexities are frequently outweighed by the uncertainties and risks with the social, financial, and political aspects of the projects. To address these risks and uncertainties, project participants have turned to a series of cost and schedule risk management tools over the past 50 years. This paper summarizes the evolution of probabilistic cost estimating and scheduling tools. It also provides examples of applications on complex projects from the US Department of Energy, the US Federal Highway Administration/Washington State Department of Transportation, the Panama Canal Authority, and the international ITER fusion generator. The paper concludes with a discussion of the remaining cost and schedule risk management challenges, which inhibit project participants from achieving their project performance goals.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF BUILDINGS ACROSS THEIR LIFE CYCLE STAGES
Authors: Ngwepe Lusca , Aigbavboa Clinton , Thwala Wellington
Published: March 2020

The aim of this study was to investigate the environmental impacts of building activities in South Africa (SA). To achieve the objectives of the study, a critical review of literature was done which was followed by the use of a questionnaire to collect primary data on the possible barriers to the adoption of LCA methodology for buildings. Five major environmental impacts were identified from literature, which were subsequently explored with the use of the questionnaire survey. The questionnaires were distributed to the construction professional team (i.e., Quantity Surveyors, Architects, Facilities Managers, Construction Managers, Civil Engineers, and Site Engineers) in the South African construction industry. Findings from the study revealed that all the stages of a building cause environmental impacts. Although, for some of the identified environmental impacts caused by building activities participants where neutral for example, that building activities lead to “Loss of Marine Life”. A comparison was done between the years of experience and the view on what the environmental impacts are and it was found that participants with more years of experience agree more that building activities causes environmental impacts as compared to participants with less years of experience, in the construction industry. The factor that was highly agreed upon by participants with more years of experience is Building Materials. The study contributes to the body of knowledge on the environmental impacts of buildings across their life cycle in the South African construction industry. The study therefore is valuable to the SA construction industry, built environment, infrastructure development, and/or sustainable urban development.
A STUDY OF HEMPCRETE PROPERTIES USING NATURAL HYDRAULIC LIME – MIX DESIGN, MECHANICAL PROPERTIES, AND MICROSTRUCTURE
Authors: Lubej Samo , Toplak Sebastian , Lep Marjan , Ivanič Andrej
Published: March 2020

In the article, an analysis of tensile strength fiber hemp and hemp fiber linkage analysis in the cement matrix is presented. The average tensile strength of the fibers of untreated hemp amounts to 764 MPa and the calculated modulus of elasticity amounts to 30 GPa. A test of pulling fibers from the cement matrix has shown that when increasing the length linkage, the maximum pulling force increases while the clamping strength does not significantly change. In the laboratory, a mixture of hemp concrete where a portion of mineral aggregate was replaced with hemp hurd was prepared. Results of the examination of the microstructure of hardened lime binder have shown that the hardened NHL mixture is porous and vapor-permeable while the hardened HL mixture is thick and compact. The goal was to create a prototype hemp concrete mixture that can be used for production of prefabricated elements with tensile strength between 10 and 25 MPa.
EFFECTS OF CLAY ON PROPERTIES OF CONCRETE
Authors: Elahi Ayub , Ali Atizaz
Published: March 2020

Concrete is a versatile and most prevalent construction material. Its long-term performance depends on its interactions with the surrounding environment. The standards limit the ratio of the clay in aggregates due to its harmful effect on the concrete properties. This research paper presents the effect of different levels of clay addition on the concrete properties. Various levels of clay addition for different mixes were used in this experimental study. The effect of clay addition on workability, compressive strengths permeability and acid attack of concrete mixes was investigated. It has been seen that workability decreased by increasing the clay content to the mix. A drop in compressive strength of concrete up to 12% was observed by adding clay as compared with that of control samples. An adverse effect on resistance to permeability and acid attack of concrete was noted by increasing the clay content.
BIOLOGIC STEP STIFFNESS SIMULATION OF TANGENCY JOINTS ON SHEET PILE LOAD TRANSFER INTO WATERWAY BED
Authors: Turk Afshin , Samani Pakavach , Ghanavatizadeh Shabnam
Published: March 2020

The irrigation project of Abadan will supply fresh water through the three flat dams in the NW of the Persian Gulf. Circular cofferdam is located in the Bahmanshir River upstream in 2007. Cell dam and ship lock walls are constructed using sheet piling and Pipe-Pin-Micro (PPM) piles on the steel walls. Next step is required to design ship lock concrete bed. It should have compatible behavior with the sheet walls, micro piles and gelatin concrete. The main purpose is transfer the extra bending moment of waterway impact from sheet walls into the concrete bed. It is mentioned that steel walls and concrete bed will operate individually without any connections with each other. Also, tangency joints will resolve the problems such as structural bed connection and steel wall thermal enlargement. In addition the bed and walls must perform independently. Artificial intelligence design (AID) will introduce a new joint with variable stiffness to transfer the impact loads into the bed (Turk Joint, TJ). According to the exerted load function, stiffness may be varied. In the concrete bed, each part of members will be simulated to determine the divided forces into the steel bars, spiral stirrups and steel pipes by step stiffness method (SSM). Concrete Bed is free from any connection with sheet walls. Tangency joint could be installed to absorb the variable bending moments by double cane action.
PROPERTY ASSET MANAGEMENT: STATE OF THE ART AND PROPOSALS OF ACTION
Authors: Paris Desiree Sandoica , Severino Manuel Soler
Published: March 2020

Currently, in the Spanish market, some entities possess considerable amounts of property assets, as we have seen in large holders: banking entities, public hospitals, developers, etc. Property assets are the slowest resources of an entity, when it comes to answering to changes, due to the complexities associated with the purchase, sale, lease, alteration, development of property assets, etc. For these and many other reasons, all the activities related to property assets, take more time than expected and are generally more expensive than in the initially budget. Then, why are there so many organizations that are surprised repeatedly, for the delays, the shortage of funds or with buildings that do not match with the initial expectations? That is why, the vast majority of organizations, cannot align the disposition, quality and efficiency of property assets with their current business strategy, that is, they are poorly managed. There is a necessity to develop the Property Asset Manager figure, in order to achieving at least similar numbers to our neighboring countries (UK, France, Germany, etc). For this to happen, we have studied, researched and analyzed diverse documentations, especially at an international level. We need to develop a definition, functions and methodology that helps to create a specific field in Spain.
PROPERTY ASSET MANAGEMENT: LEGAL FRAMEWORK
Authors: Paris Desiree , Severino Manuel
Published: March 2020

The Property Asset Manager is a figure of the construction process of recent implantation in Spain, also the Spanish legislation in force does not expressly contemplate it like an agent of the construction. We have analyzed and interpreted the legislation, especially the “Ley de Ordenación de la Edificación-LOE”, to see what could be applied. We have also analyzed the legal nature of the contract, as well as the responsibilities deriving from their works, taking into account the applicable rules to the construction process as well as the contract of the Property Asset Management and its penal responsibility. To conclude, the actions of the Property Asset Management, even if it is a figure that is not expressly regulated in the current Spanish legislation, is subject, directly or indirectly, to the scope of application of the regulations regarding contractual liability of the LOE, the Civil Code and The Penal Code. From our point of view, the Spanish courts will be recognizing the figure of the Property Asset Management as a new active agent of the construction when it comes to performing management functions, that is to say, delegated developer. We believe that an update of the LOE is needed, in the sense that it includes this new figure, Property Asset Management, along with many more agents that fight their way through the Spanish construction process. However, they have a lot of strength in the international field.
INNOVATIVE EXPLICIT FINITE DIFFERENCE SOLUTION TO TIME RATE OF SETTLEMENT IN CLAY
Authors: Al-Khafaji Amir
Published: March 2020

The time rate of settlement process in clay involves changes in excess pore water pressure (EPWP) with time. Exact solutions have been published for constant initial EPWP and other simple distributions. The finite differences methods are generally used in solving complex initial EPWP distributions. Such methods suffer from roundoff errors at each time increment and truncation errors proportional to the step size used. The explicit finite difference method produces stable solutions when proper time and depth increments are used. An innovative explicit finite difference model involving eigenvalues and eigenvectors is proposed that will permit arbitrary initial EPWP distributions and reduce roundoff errors. This method is numerically stable and convergent. Unlike traditional methods, the proposed solution will also eliminate the need to calculate the EPWP vector traditionally required at each time increment. Instead, the EPWP can be computed directly for any number of time increments.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT SHARES OF A REINFORCED CONCRETE EARTH-RETAINING WALL WITH BUTTRESSES
Authors: Molina-Moreno Francisca , Martí Jose V. , Yepes Víctor , Ciroth Andreas
Published: March 2020

Structural engineers focus on the reduction of carbon emissions in reinforced concrete structures, while other impacts affecting ecosystems and human health become secondary or are left behind. The featured life cycle assessment shows the impacts corresponding to each construction stage of an earth-retaining wall with buttresses. In this study the contribution ratio of each input flow is analyzed. Accordingly, concrete, landfill, machinery, formwork, steel, and transport are considered. Results show that despite the concrete almost always accounts for the largest contribution to each impact, the impact shares of steel present noticeable sensitivity to the steel-manufacturing route. The parameter of study is the recycling rate, usually 75% reached in Spain. Noticeable variation is found when the recycling content increases. The relationship between the impacts of each material with the amount of material used discloses research interest.
COMPARATIVE INVESTIGATION OF STRENGTH PROPERTIES OF CONCRETE MIXED WITH VARIOUS POWDER AS ALTERNATIVE CEMENTITIOUS MATERIALS
Authors: Yoshitake Isamu , Miyamoto Keisuke , Mizushima Jun , Yamamoto Kurumi , Yamato Koichiro
Published: March 2020

Mineral admixtures are often mixed in concrete as an alternative cementitious material. The use of powder materials indirectly contributes to mitigation of environmental impact caused from Portland cement production which is a major source of CO2 emission. Furthermore, some of powder can improve properties of fresh and hardened concretes. A huge number of reports examining effects of admixture have been published in the world. However, it is not easy to compare the effect of admixture under a certain test condition. The present study aims to examining strength properties of concrete incorporating various admixtures. All admixtures tested herein were mixed in concrete as an alternative cementitious material, and the cement replacement ratios were in the range of 0.2 to 0.6. The tested powder materials are limestone powder, fly-ash, blast furnace slag powder, silica-fume, and inorganic admixture which was recently developed to increase chloride resistance. The focus of the study is to quantify the effect of these admixture on concrete strength. The paper reports compressive, split tensile and flexural strengths of these concretes, and discusses the effect of powder materials.
An experimental analysis of the driver’s attention during train driving
Authors: Madleňák Radovan , Mašek Jaroslav , Madleňáková Lucia
Published: March 2020

The article deals with the experimental monitoring of the driver’s attention during train operation. SMI eye-tracking technology and eye-tracking glasses we used to measure the train driver’s attention. This unique experiment we performed on the Slovak railway (ŽSR) line no. 120 Bratislava - Žilina, in the section Žilina - Púchov. The measurement took place in the spring of 2017, and the passenger train was operated by the ZSSK electric unit series 671. The article analyses in detail the monitoring of the driver’s attention during train operation. We analysed two typical processes during train driver work: driving at the section (without stopping) and driving through the train station (with stopping). Realised analysis can lead to the identification of critical points on the line, to a better understanding of the driver’s way of work and to contribute to increasing railway safety. The unique measurement procedure and the used technology did not affect the safety of the train operation.
The issue of addressing the lack of parking spaces for road freight transport in cities - a case study
Authors: Lizbetin Jan , Bartuska Ladislav
Published: March 2020

Static traffic (parking of vehicles) is one of the most problematic areas of transport in urban areas. In particular, parking areas for heavy freight vehicles in city areas cause problems connected, for example, with insufficient capacity or inadequate equipment. In the Czech Republic the regional concepts for the location of parking lots for trucks have not been developed - rest areas are built mainly on highways. Drivers are forced into other roads to search for alternative parking spaces and thus jeopardize the safety of the cargo to be transported. Because of the lack of such parking areas, drivers are forced to violate the European Agreement Concerning the Work of Crews of Vehicles Engaged in International Road Transport (AETR) or, due to this agreement, to park the truck before the driver’s work shift ends, thereby reducing the efficiency of full driver usage. The paper deals with the issue of rest areas location for road freight vehicles in the selected area. The first part of the paper characterizes variant solutions of parking areas in a particular selected area, which were evaluated on the basis of an analysis of the current conditions. The second part of the paper introduces the evaluation of individual variants using the TOPSIS method, which was chosen as the most appropriate method of multicriteria decision making process.
Modeling the Delivery Routes Carried out by Automated Guided Vehicles when Using the Specific Mathematical Optimization Method
Authors: Stopka Ondrej
Published: March 2020

Distribution tasks or transportation problems when using Operations Research methods are mostly addressed by vehicle routing problem methods dealing with an issue of supplying to several nodes, wherein the route begins in a point of origin and, after accomplishing deliveries to individual nodes, vehicle returns to an initial point. Each node can be operated only once, the order of nodes is not determined; however, the major objective is to find the shortest route possible. The aim of this research study is to formulate options to model delivery routes executed by automated guided vehicles in an extensive logistics areal by applying the specific mathematical optimization method. After description of several fundamental aspects and attributes related to automated guided vehicles, distribution tasks and vehicle routing problems which are discussed in introductory chapters, the most important parts containing the specification of Greedy algorithm, as a very useful optimization method for the given purpose, as well as the very models of cargo delivery by automated guided vehicles without / with initial distance optimization are presented.
Lie triple systems and Leibniz algebras
Authors: Kurdiani Revaz
Published: March 2020

The present paper deals with the Lie triple systems via Leibniz algebras. A perfect Lie algebra as a perfect Leibniz algebra and as a perfect Lie triple system is considered and the appropriate universal central extensions are studied. Using properties of Leibniz algebras, it is shown that the Lie triple system universal central extension is either the universal central extension of the Leibniz algebra or the universal central extension of the Lie algebra.
A note on the nonlinear Volterra integral equation for the early exercise boundary
Authors: Shashiashvili Malkhaz , Dochviri Besarion , Lominashvili Giorgi
Published: March 2020

In this paper, we study the nonlinear Volterra integral equation satisfied by the early exercise boundary of the American put option in the one-dimensional diffusion model for a stock price with constant interest rate and constant dividend yield and with a local volatility depending on the current time t and the current stock price S. In the classical Black–Sholes model for a stock price, Theorem 4.3 of [S. D. Jacka,
Optimal stopping and the American put,
Math. Finance 1 1991, 2, 1–14] states that if the family of integral equations (parametrized by the variable S) holds for all

S
≤

b
⁢

(
t
)

{S\leq b(t)}

with a candidate function

b
⁢

(
t
)

{b(t)}

, then this

b
⁢

(
t
)

{b(t)}

must coincide with the American put early exercise boundary

c
⁢

(
t
)

{c(t)}

.
We generalize Peskir’s result [G. Peskir,
On the American option problem,
Math. Finance 15 2005, 1, 169–181] to state that if the candidate function

b
⁢

(
t
)

{b(t)}

satisfies one particular integral equation (which corresponds to the upper limit

S
=

b
⁢

(
t
)

{S=b(t)}

), then all other integral equations (corresponding to S,

S
≤

b
⁢

(
t
)

{S\leq b(t)}

) will be automatically satisfied by the same function

b
⁢

(
t
)

{b(t)}

.
Synthesis and characterization of a new series of thiadiazole derivatives as potential anticancer agents
Authors: Çevik Ulviye Acar , Osmaniye Derya , Levent Serkan , Sağlik Begüm Nurpelin , Çavuşoğlu Betül Kaya , Özkay Yusuf , Kaplancikl Zafer Asım
Published: March 2020

Cancer is one of the most common causes of death in the world. Despite the importance of combating cancer in healthcare systems and research centers, toxicity in normal tissues and the low efficiency of anticancer drugs are major problems in chemotherapy. Nowadays the aim of many medical research projects is to discover new safer and more effective anticancer agents. 1,3,4-Thiadiazole compounds are important fragments in medicinal chemistry because of their wide range of biological activities, including anticancer activities. The aim of this study was to determine the capacity of newly synthesized 1,3,4-thiadiazole compounds as chemotherapeutic agents. The structures of the obtained compounds were elucidated using 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and mass spectrometry. Although the thiadiazole derivatives did not prove to be significantly cytotoxic to the tumour tissue cultures, compound 4i showed activity against the C6 rat brain cancer cell line (IC50 0.097 mM) at the tested concentrations.
Dignity, Integrity, and the Concept of a Person
Authors: Addis Adeno
Published: March 2020

The idea of human dignity, found in almost all legal and political cultures, now plays a very significant role in political and legal discourse. The concept occupies a prominent place in many national constitutions and international human rights conventions. Some constitutional and conventional laws in fact claim that the pursuit of dignity is (or should be) the central organizing principle of every government. Yet, it is not always clear what this seemingly central concept means or entails. Its popularity seems inversely related to its clarity. Dignity is often invoked in support of opposing positions on the same issue. Using an approach that the article refers to as dignity pragmatism, the author advances the argument that careful examination of the use of dignity in national constitutions and international human rights documents and their elaboration by the relevant tribunals shows that the idea of human dignity is often used in the context of defending the integrity of the person. Here integrity is defined as the condition of wholeness or completeness. The article details what the conditions for integrity are and how human dignity is invoked in its defense. On this account, dignity is an existential value. It is about personhood in its various dimensions – physical, psychological and social. When integrity as wholeness is threatened, existence itself is threatened. Viewed this way, indignity is the effacement of personhood.
International(ized) Constitutional Court: Kosovo’s Transfer of Judicial Sovereignty
Authors: Hasani Enver , Mjeku Getoar
Published: March 2020

This paper discusses the transfer of judicial sovereignty in Kosovo from a comparative perspective. In particular, it addresses the transfer of constitutional jurisdiction to the Special Court of Kosovo. This court was formed as a result of Kosovo’s commitment to address allegations made by the Council of Europe in a document known as the Dick Marty report. The report alleges that war crimes and crimes against humanity and international law were committed during and in the aftermath of the Kosovo war (1998–1999). It took several years for the Court to be formed as constitutional amendments, legal infrastructure, and other practical steps were needed to make the Court operational. These preparatory measures have been taken, but practical results are missing, and there is fear that the Court might end up like previous UN- and EU-led justice systems, which did too little and were too late to address the culture of impunity in Kosovo.
Optimal Performance Regions of Feynman’s Ratchet Engine with Different Optimization Criteria
Authors: Ding Zemin , Ge Yanlin , Chen Lingen , Feng Huijun , Xia Shaojun
Published: March 2020

Thermodynamic performance analysis of microscopic Feynman’s engine has always been a hot topic, since it can reveal the operating mechanism of the system and give out the suggestions of performance improvement. The present work explores the optimal performance regions of the ratchet operating, respectively, as heat engine and refrigerator. The major purpose is to obtain the optimal performance bunds and provide theoretical guidelines for the designs of practical microscopic ratchet engine systems. Based on an irreversible Feynman’s ratchet engine, the optimal power output versus thermal efficiency performance and the optimal cooling load versus COP performance in different operation modes are analyzed. The effects of irreversible heat leakage and major design parameters are also explored. By further introducing the ecological function, efficient power, and figure of merit criteria, performance characteristics of ratchet device with different optimization indexes are analyzed and compared with each other. The optimal performance regions concerning different optimization criteria are obtained. The results show that by reasonably selecting design parameters, Feynman’s ratchet can attain the optimal operation conditions for different design purposes.
Orthogonal polynomials for exponential weights x2α(1 – x2)2ρe–2Q(x) on [0, 1)
Authors: Liu Rong
Published: March 2020

Let Wα,ρ = xα(1 – x2)ρe–Q(x), where α > –
$\begin{array}{}
\displaystyle
\frac12
\end{array}$ and Q is continuous and increasing on [0, 1), with limit ∞ at 1. This paper deals with orthogonal polynomials for the weights
$\begin{array}{}
\displaystyle
W^2_{\alpha, \rho}
\end{array}$ and gives bounds on orthogonal polynomials, zeros, Christoffel functions and Markov inequalities. In addition, estimates of fundamental polynomials of Lagrange interpolation at the zeros of the orthogonal polynomial and restricted range inequalities are obtained.
Generators and integral points on elliptic curves associated with simplest quartic fields
Authors: Duquesne Sylvain , Nara Tadahisa , Zargar Arman Shamsi
Published: March 2020

We associate to some simplest quartic fields a family of elliptic curves that has rank at least three over ℚ(m). It is given by the equation

E
m

:

y
2

=

x
3

−
36

36

m
4

+
48

m
2

+
25

36

m
4

−
48

m
2

+
25

x
.

$$\begin{array}{}
\displaystyle
E_m:y^2=x^3-36\left(36m^4+48m^2+25\right)\left(36m^4-48m^2+25\right)x.
\end{array}$$

Employing canonical heights we show the rank is in fact at least three for all m. Moreover, we get a parametrized infinite family of rank at least four. Further, the integral points on the curve Em
are discussed and we determine all the integral points on the original quartic model when the rank is three. Previous work in this setting studied the elliptic curves associated with simplest quartic fields of ranks at most two along with their integral points (see [2, 3]).
On sets of points of approximate continuity and ϱ-upper continuity
Authors: Kamińska Anna , Nowakowska Katarzyna , Turowska Małgorzata
Published: March 2020

In the paper some properties of sets of points of approximate continuity and ϱ-upper continuity are presented. We will show that for every Lebesgue measurable set E ⊂ ℝ there exists a function f : ℝ → ℝ which is approximately (ϱ-upper) continuous exactly at points from E. We also study properties of sets of points at which real function has Denjoy property. Some other related topics are discussed.
On solvability of some nonlocal boundary value problems for biharmonic equation
Authors: Karachik Valery , Turmetov Batirkhan
Published: March 2020

In this paper a new class of well-posed boundary value problems for the biharmonic equation is studied. The considered problems are nonlocal boundary value problems of Bitsadze- -Samarskii type. These problems are solved by reducing them to Dirichlet and Neumann type problems. Theorems on existence and uniqueness of the solution are proved and exact solvability conditions of the considered problems are found. In addition, the integral representations of solutions are obtained.
Effect of nano-strengthening on the properties and microstructure of recycled concrete
Authors: Meng Tao , Zhang Jiaolong , Wei Huadong , Shen Jiajia
Published: March 2020

Influence of nano-strengthening immersion on the properties of recycled aggregate (RA) and recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) and the microstructure of interfacial transition zones (ITZs) between mortar and aggregate were studied in this paper. Results showed that nano-strengthening immersion was helpful to reduce the crushing value and total pore area of RA, to significantly improve the mechanical strength of RAC, and to modify the bond strength between RAC and steel rebar and the structural properties of RAC beams. Mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP), micro-hardness (MH) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) observation were conducted in order to reveal the enhancement mechanism of nano-strengthening immersion. Results showed that the density and mechanical properties in ITZs were obviously improved by nano-strengthening because the coating and penetration of nano-materials was helpful to block the pores and cracks in ITZs, to avoid the directed gathering of CH crystal, and to accelerate the hydration of cement and mineral additions.
Tracing the Alteration of Verdigris Pigment through Combined Raman Spectroscopy and X-ray Diffraction, Part I
Authors: Brostoff Lynn B. , Connelly Ryan Cynthia
Published: March 2020

This research investigates chemical alteration in the important historical pigment called verdigris, both in the form of neutral verdigris (Cu(II) (CH3COO)2 . H2O) and basic verdigris (Cu(II)x(CH3COO)y(OH)z.nH2O), using reference pigment powders and historically relevant “mock-up” samples exposed to artificial aging. Analytical study of model samples by combined Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and visible spectroscopy provides new evidence that clarifies and builds on the often conflicting body of literature, first in terms of analytical identification of different forms of verdigris pigment, and second by tracing the alteration of neutral verdigris in systems that link to its behavior in aqueous media on historical types of paper. Results further suggest that the historical importance of neutral verdigris as a pigment is underestimated, since commercially available verdigris throughout its heyday – from before the Renaissance through the eighteenth century – was likely to have been dominated by the more easily manufactured neutral salt. This misunderstanding may arise from pigment alteration, whereby the neutral verdigris converts to basic copper salts, or forms organo-copper complexes.
Maria é Conceição: decolonizando a educação patrimonial na escola
Authors: Geller Jr. Lúcio
Published: March 2020

Este artigo explora a ação educativa realizada na Escola Estadual de Ensino Fundamental Santa Luzia, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, desenvolvida na disciplina de Estágio de Docência em História – Educação Patrimonial, do Curso de História da UFRGS em 2018. A ação teve como objetivo observar e discutir as mudanças e permanências no espaço-tempo da Vila Maria da Conceição e as noções de documento/monumento e de fontes para a História, que possibilitam construir narrativas sobre o passado. O referencial da proposta provém dos(as) autores(as) da escola de pensamento latino-americana dos “estudos decoloniais”. Através da decolonialidade busca-se perceber como os valores e processos que basearam a construção das práticas e narrativas da ação podem configurar uma desconstrução epistêmica.Palavras-chave: Patrimônio, Educação Patrimonial, Identidade, Decolonialidade.AbstractThis article describes an educational action carried out at Santa Luzia State School of Elementary Education, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, developed in the discipline of Teaching Internship in History - Heritage Education, History Course of UFRGS in 2018. The purpose of the action was to observe and discuss the changes and permanence in the space-time of Vila Maria da Conceição and the notions of document / monument and sources for history, which make it possible to construct narratives about the past. The framework of the proposal comes from the actors of the Latin American school of thought of “decolonial studies”. Through decoloniality we seek to understand how the values and processes that underlie the construction of action practices and narratives can configure an epistemic deconstruction.Keywords: Patrimony, Patrimonial education, Identity, Decoloniality.
Robert Johnson e o racismo em Mississipi nas décadas de 1910-1930 no documentário "O Diabo na Encruzilhada"
Authors: Aguiar Letícia Ferreira
Published: March 2020

Neste estudo busca-se analisar a trajetória do músico Robert Johnson em razão da sua vivência como homem negro no Mississipi entre as décadas de 1910 e 1930, período de tensões sociais extremas para a comunidade negra nas condições existentes no estado e no país em si. Para realizar este objetivo, a investigação toma como ponto de partida o documentário “O diabo na encruzilhada”, do diretor Brian Oakes, que aborda a vida de Johnson desde suas origens, destacando os conflitos de classe e raça entre membros de sua família e o Klu Klux Klan, até sua morte, aos 27 anos. Sua vida conturbada é marcada tanto pelo racismo institucional como simbólico. Desmistifica-se Johnson, documentando os aspectos sociopolíticos da época, de forma a explicar seu legado deturpado pela mentalidade racista.Palavras-chave: Blues. História Afroamericana. Racismo.AbstractThis study intends to analyze the trajectory of Robert Johnson, an established african-american musician, about his experiences with racism during the decades of 1910 to 1930. This period was a time of extreme social tension for the black community, especially in the existing conditions of Mississippi, and the entirety of the United States at the time. "The Devil at the Crossroads," a documentary directed by Brian Oakes, approaches Johnson's life focusing from the conflicts of class between Johnson's family and members of the Klu Klux Klan to details of Johnson's life up until his untimely death at 27. Johnson's life was turbulent, stained by institucional and symbolic racism. By demythologizing Johnson, documenting the sociopolitical aspects of the period, Oakes explains how Johnson's legacy was perverted by the racist mentality.Keywords: Blues. African-American History. Racism.
A terra dos mortos na cidade do Rio Negro: Mudanças nas práticas funerárias na cidade de Manaus e a construção do Cemitério de São José (1848-1859)
Authors: Pedrosa Fábio Augusto Carvalho
Published: March 2020

Até determinado período do oitocentos, vivos e mortos conviviam no mesmo espaço, mantendo relações bastante diretas. Essa relação estava a séculos arraigada no cotidiano. Os discursos higienistas e as práticas de normatização do espaço público, com a construção de cemitérios públicos e a proibição do contato tradicional com os cadáveres, distanciaram cada vez mais esses dois. Dessa forma, pretende-se analisar como se deram as mudanças nas práticas funerárias na cidade de Manaus na segunda metade do século XIX, partindo das primeiras discussões presentes no Código de Posturas Municipais de 1848. Nesse período os discursos médicos penetraram na região, sendo reforçados pelas graves epidemias que atingiram a capital entre 1855 e 1856, que culminaram na construção do Cemitério de São José (1856-59), que marcou o início de uma nova forma da população manauara relacionar-se com a morte e os mortos.Palavras-chaves: Morte, Práticas Funerárias, Cemitério.Abstract Until a certain period of the eight hundred, living and dead lived in the same space, maintaining fairly direct relations. This relationship was rooted in the centuries. The hygienist discourses and practices of standardization of the public space, with the construction of public cemeteries and the prohibition of the traditional contact with the corpses, have distanced more and more these two. In this way, the aim is to analyze the changes in funeral practices in the city of Manaus in the second half of the 19th century, starting from the first discussions in the Code of Municipal Postures of 1848. During this period medical discourses penetrated the region and were reinforced by the serious epidemics that hit the capital between 1855 and 1856, culminating in the construction of the São José Cemetery (1856-59). Keywords: Death, Funeral Practices, Cemetery.
Primary adrenal lymphoma as a cause of adrenal insufficiency, a report of two cases
Authors: Grønning Kaja , Sharma Archana , Mastroianni Maria Adele , Karlsson Bo Daniel , Husebye Eystein S , Løvås Kristian , Nermoen Ingrid
Published: March 2020

Primary adrenal lymphoma (PAL) is a rare cause of adrenal insufficiency. More than 90% is of B-cell origin. The condition is bilateral in up to 75% of cases, with adrenal insufficiency in two of three patients. We report two cases of adrenal insufficiency presenting at the age of 70 and 79 years, respectively. Both patients had negative 21-hydroxylase antibodies with bilateral adrenal lesions on CT. Biopsy showed B-cell lymphoma. One of the patients experienced intermittent disease regression on replacement dosage of glucocorticoids.

Learning points:

Primary adrenal lymphoma (PAL) is a rare cause of adrenal insufficiency.

Bilateral adrenal masses of unknown origin or in individuals with suspected extra-adrenal malignancy should be biopsied quickly when pheochromocytoma is excluded biochemically.

Steroid treatment before biopsy may affect diagnosis.

Adrenal insufficiency with negative 21-hydroxylase antibodies should be evaluated radiologically.
THE POTENTIAL OF FOREST HONEY (Apis spp) FROM TIMOR ISLAND AS ANTIBACTERIAL AGAINST PATHOGENIC BACTERIA IN FISH CULTURE
Authors: Salosso Yuliana
Published: March 2020

This study aims to know the potential of forest honey Apis spp. from Timor Island as antibacterial on pathogenic bacteria Aeromonas hydropilla and Vibrio alginolyticus in cultured fish, through testing of active compound, total glucose, pH and water content of the honey, that play the role in antibacterial mechanisms in honey. Chemical content of the honey was examined for alkaloid using Culvenor-Fiztgerald method, saponin with foam test, terpenoid and steroid with Lieberman-Burchard method, tannin with addition of FeCl3, and flavanoid addition of HCl and Mg powder. Total glucose was measured using spectrophotometer, water content with gravimetry, and pH with pH-meter. The antibacterial activity  test of the honey was done using disc method without dilution. Results showed that all forest honey from Timor Island contained alkaloid, saponin, steroid and terpenoid, except that Kefa honey did not hold steroid and terpenoid. Water content of the honey ranged from 15.70% to 26.65%, total glucose of 71.16% to 80.58%, and pH of 3.84 to 4.06. The forest honey had also antibacterial activity against A. hydropilla and V. alginoliticus with different inhibition zone.