bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
UNDERLYING AND RANKING FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO CONSTRUCTION WASTE GENERATION IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY
Authors: Metinal Yusuf Berkay , Gümüsburun Ayalp Gülden
Published: May 2024

In recent decades, there has been a notable upswing in the production of construction and waste, posing significant challenges to the construction industry and jeopardizing environmental sustainability. The successful implementation of construction and demolition waste management (CDWM) strategies is hindered by various barriers within the construction industry. Addressing this issue requires identifying and prioritizing key factors contributing to waste generation. Consequently, this study seeks to pinpoint and assess the factors influencing construction waste generation in the Turkish construction sector. Initially, a systematic literature review was conducted, resulting in the identification of 54 factors. Subsequently, a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire was administered to project architects, project engineers, site supervisors, and contractors within the Turkish construction industry, with 162 respondents. The collected data underwent reliability analyses using SPSS 22 software. Following this, index of relative importance (IRI) analyses was employed to rank the identified factors. Ultimately, this study establishes the most significant factors responsible for construction waste generation in the Turkish construction industry.
IMPACT OF ALUMINOSILICATE WASTES ON THE HYDRATION, PHYSICAL AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF CEMENT PASTE
Authors: Antonovič Valentin , Sikarskas Donatas , Boris Renata , Malaiškienė Jurgita , Stonys Rimvydas
Published: May 2024

The impact of aluminosilicate wastes (spent fluid catalytic cracking catalyst from oil companies and metakaolin containing waste from the production of expanded glass granules) on the hydration and compressive strength of the cement paste was analysed when a proportion of cement was replaced by one waste material or two waste materials. The article presents results of X-ray diffraction and thermal analysis of hardened cement pastes. It was determined that the spent catalytic cracking catalyst accelerates cement hydration because of its high surface area and pozzolanic activity; and metakaolin containing waste has a retarding effect. X-ray diffraction and thermal analysis showed that the specimens with metakaolin containing waste had the lowest amount of portlandite, and the compressive strength of these specimens was similar to that of the control specimens when a superplasticizer was used. It was found that a mix of aluminosilicate wastes has a different effect on cement hydration and makes it possible to adjust the hydration time of the binder within a certain interval.
DEVELOPMENT OF A SELF-LEVELING FLY ASH-SLAG GEOPOLYMER MORTAR
Authors: Hwalla Joud , Tekle Even , El-Hassan Hilal , Assaad Joseph , El-Maaddawy Tamer
Published: May 2024

Exponential growth in the world population and increase in demand for concrete are pressing researchers and scientists to find sustainable alternative materials for Portland cement and natural aggregates. Self-leveling mortar is extensively used in construction applications, such as floor leveling, repair, resurfacing, or adhesion. Yet, limited research has been carried out on enhancing this material’s sustainability. This paper aims to produce a geopolymer mortar produced with fly-ash (FA), ground granulated blast furnace slag (BFS), and desert dune sand. Geopolymer mortar samples were produced with different binder-to-sand (B:S), FA-to-slag (FA:BFS), and alkali-activator solution-to-binder (AAS/B) ratios. Alkaline solution was blended with sodium silicate and sodium hydroxide with a molarity of 8 M (ratio of 1.5). Fresh and hardened properties of the developed self-leveling mortars were assessed. Experimental results showed that the flow, initial and final setting time, and 7-and 14-day compressive strength were in respective ranges of 17.3-40.3 cm, 21-155 minutes, 42-221 minutes, 6.0-70.3 MPa, and 5.2-78.7 MPa. Furthermore, an increase in FA:BFS, B:S, and AAS/B ratios enhanced flowability and prolonged setting time but reduced compressive strength at both ages. These research findings advocate the use of a self-leveling, cement-free geopolymer mortar to be utilized in various buildings and repair applications.
AGILE TEAM COMMUNICATION IN CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS: A SURVEY-BASED APPROACH
Authors: Kunkcu Handan , Koc Kerim , Gurgun Asli Pelin
Published: May 2024

Agility is a concept that provides new opportunities for proper management of construction projects. Since little is known about role of communication in agile project management, focusing specifically on the concept of communication to improve agile project practices would be beneficial. Communication plays a central role in project team development and increasing relationship quality with stakeholders. This study aims to evaluate factors measuring agile communication addressed in existing literature using a questionnaire survey. To achieve the study objective, data were collected from civil engineers working in various construction projects. Then, relative importance index (RII) was used to analyze data gathered from the respondents. The findings indicate that the significant role of face-to-face communication to convey information and continuous interaction of the client in the project execution process were the most important indicators of agile project communication, respectively. The study findings are expected to aid improving the agile communication practices, and eventually contributing to the adoption of agile solutions for professionals in the construction industry.
FACTORS AFFECTING COMPETITIVENESS IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW
Authors: Al-Kayed Anas Azzam , Rotimi Funmilayo Ebun , Purushothaman Mahesh Babu , Hoseini Ali Ghaffarian
Published: May 2024

In today's globalized and highly competitive construction industry, it is crucial for companies to have a deep understanding of competitiveness in order to survive. The competitiveness of the construction industry is influenced by a multitude of factors. As a result, construction organizations must improve their understanding of the relationships between these various factors that affect competitiveness. Thus, this paper aims to determine the factors affecting competitiveness in the construction industry through an analysis of relevant literature focusing on aspects that shape competitiveness in the construction industry. This systematic review explores these factors by analyzing 27 peer-reviewed English-language articles from 2003-2023. It found that the major factors affecting competitiveness are mainly under eight main themes: technological, organizational, human resource, and strategic factors, economic and political factors, financial factors, operational factors, and external factors. The review emphasizes the growing importance of digital technologies in the construction industry's competitiveness and provides guidance for future studies.
A REVIEW OF RESEARCH IN CONSTRUCTION INCENTIVIZATION
Authors: Cheung Sai On , Ma Qiuwen , Lee Fong Chung , Humphrey Steven
Published: May 2024

Due to increased project complexity and technological advancements in the last decade, designers and contractors are expected to render more effort to achieve the challenging project goals. To elicit extra efforts from agents, incentivization has become one of the primary strategies employed by clients. Despite increased academic interest in the design of incentive strategies, results of incentivization on project performance remain mixed. This study aims to reconcile these observations through a systematic review of existing literature on construction incentivization. Accordingly, the following research objectives are achieved: (1) examining the main purposes of using incentives, (2) identifying types of incentives are used in construction projects, and (3) evaluating the impacts on project performance that are derived from the use of incentives. Based on the results of the literature review, a framework to study construction incentivization is developed. This study offers a detailed framework to map the types of incentives with the expected outcomes.
EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION: TRANSFORMATIVE IMPACT OF FACULTY DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS IN CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT AND ENGINEERING
Authors: Heydari MohammadHossein , Shojaei Alireza , Rokooei Saeed
Published: May 2024

The ongoing improvement of teaching abilities among faculty is recognized as essential across various academic disciplines. Within the Construction Management and Engineering (CME) field, there's a notable need for such professional development. Our study looks into a specific program designed to bolster the teaching capacities of new faculty in foundational construction topics. The central aim was to understand the opinions of CME faculty regarding these development initiatives and their potential benefits. During the summer of 2022, we introduced the program to 15 early-career faculty members. These individuals participated in educational sessions led by experienced construction educators. To gather feedback, we collected personal reflections and insights from participants, aiming to understand their perceptions and the impact on their teaching and mentoring skills. The feedback highlighted areas for improvement in current CME teaching practices and affirmed the value of such development programs. This research provides guidance for those in CME looking to design educational tools to better prepare graduate students for academic roles.
LESSONS LEARNT FROM SOIL IMPROVEMENT CASE STUDIES
Authors: Ahmad Syed Faiz
Published: May 2024

In Saudi Arabia two methods of soil improvement have been customarily employed. They are soil improvement by means of stone columns, and soil improvement by means of controlled modulus columns, that is CMC. Each of these methods have their own challenges to offer. Experience has shown that the sub-surface geology of the coastal areas of Saudi Arabia are marked with deep layers of poor soil termed locally as sabkha soil. Test results have determined that sabkha soil is known to have low shear strength, high soil compressibility, and high concentration of chlorides and sulphates which are corrosive to concrete, steel, and other construction materials. Design of foundations over a sabkha deposit remains a challenge and requires soil improvement. The CMC installation utilizes reverse flight augers, which displaces the soil laterally. However, it offers a huge challenge of post-operation trimming and cutting of CMCs. for stone columns, soil is removed during the drilling operation creating environmental issue. It also offers challenges as the huge impact during its operation are likely to damage the underground utilities. The environmental issues thus created can pose yet other challenge. This research paper is a case study that collates the experiences of soil improvement methods employed on a project in Saudi Arabia – vis-à-vis their advantages and the challenges encountered.
INDUSTRY PERSPECTIVE ON THE TRANSITION TO ECO-FRIENDLY SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES
Authors: Bakhshi Payam , Pourmokhtarian Afshin , Cribbs John
Published: May 2024

As the global climate continues to change, countries across the world face a critical challenge in balancing sustainable construction, lowering construction costs, and increasing housing affordability and the United States is no exception. Since the U.S. building sector is a major contributor to CO2 and other greenhouse gases emissions, it necessitates the adoption of eco-friendly construction practices, which may increase construction costs. On the other hand, with the persistent yet increasing demand for affordable housing, it is imperative to navigate these concurrent issues efficiently. The challenges of climate-friendly buildings, affordable construction, and housing costs come together in a complex way. Ensuring that housing is both environmentally friendly and affordable for everyone, a deep understanding and innovative ideas are essential. The overarching goal of this study is two-fold. First, it aims to understand how the building industry in the state of Massachusetts, U.S. is addressing the transition to building more eco-friendly single-family homes. Second, it looks at the construction costs associated with building these energy-efficient homes by obtaining real estimates from subcontractors. Through these steps, this study offers a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities in an effort to provide housing that is both energy-efficient and affordable.
UNDERGROUND POWER LINES: ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL, VISUAL, ECONOMIC, AND SAFETY BENEFITS
Authors: Corizzi Kevin , Singh Amarjit
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the transition from above-ground to underground power lines in Hawaii, focusing on the severe threats posed by downed lines during storms, particularly on roadways where escape routes are critical. The research uses a comprehensive approach to explore environmental, visual, economic, and safety aspects. The study employed a methodology that involved reviewing powerline undergrounding studies in New York City and Florida, chosen for their geographical resemblance to Hawaii. Legal submissions from activist groups and current event articles discussing safety concerns in comparable geographical scenarios were also analyzed. Findings indicate substantial benefits, including minimized environmental impact on landscapes and ecosystems, heightened visual aesthetics, and economic advantages through reduced maintenance costs. Crucially, the shift to underground power lines significantly enhances safety during storms, preventing life-threatening scenarios on vulnerable roadways. This research underscores the urgency and practicality of adopting underground power lines in storm-prone regions, providing a compelling case for policymakers and stakeholders to prioritize this transition for communities’ overall well-being and resilience.
CIVIL LITIGATION AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION DURING URBAN TUNNEL CONSTRUCTION CAUSED BY PROPRIETY DAMAGE
Authors: Provenzano Paola , Iddas Giuseppe
Published: May 2024

Tunnel construction has to interact with many complex variables, both in the design phase and in the construction phase, especially in urban areas with high population density. Thus, building a new metro line inevitably involves disputes. Even if companies have appropriate guarantees provided in the contract, the initiation of a claim normally involves a dispute, which can be resolved, through confrontation of the parties, or it can incur court proceedings. During the construction of Milan's new subway line, Metro Blu, a great deal of effort was devoted to the management of damage complaints, induced mainly during the excavation phases and beyond. Thanks to the effort and commitment of numerous insurance companies, which supported the contractors, damage claims were collected and managed, almost always in conjunction with construction. Some disputes have been settled; others have resulted in court disputes. Although the most frequent claims have been for damage to the existing building (fractures and deformations), some disputes have involved claims for damages in relation to property rights and compensation for property expropriation. The authors expose two cases history of recurring disputes involving the construction of the new subway line, with the aim of reflecting on the patterns of large-scale litigation.
FINITE SHEAR STRAIN BASED ON IMAGE ANALYSIS FOR RECTANGULAR SECTION SHAFT WITH LARGE ASPECT RATIO
Authors: Kato Yasuyuki
Published: May 2024

This paper describes the shearing strain distribution obtained by using image analysis proposed in this study when large torsion is applied to a rectangular cross-section shaft. As is well known, the shearing strain distribution for rectangular cross-section shaft have already been investigated by Saint-Venant. However, since this theory is based on the assumption that torsional angle is relatively small, it is not necessarily rational under large torsion. Therefore, in our previous study, using the image analysis based on the Natural Strain theory, where the commutative law of strain is applicable and the rigid body rotation can be removed accurately from shearing strain component, the shearing strain distributions have been investigated for the rubber shaft having square cross section. In the present paper, these distributions are investigated for a rectangular cross section with a large aspect ratio rather than a square shape. In particular, these distributions on the long side in rectangular cross-section are compared with those on the short sides. Consequently, the difference between the distribution of shearing strain obtained by the image analysis in this study and measurements based on Saint-Venant's theory increases as torsional deformation increases and this tendency is observed particularly on the short side.
IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PRISM SURVEY FORM TO CREATE SEISMIC RISK MAPS
Authors: Xekalakis Georgios , Apostolaki Stefania , Martinavičius Deividas , Fokaides Paris , Christou Petros
Published: May 2024

This study details a seismic risk assessment of stone and adobe masonry structures in the Agios Dometios Municipality, Nicosia, Cyprus. The study integrates field inspections using the PRISM survey form, designed exclusively for masonry buildings, with advanced analytical procedures. The initial phase involves comprehensive field inspections to evaluate the structural condition and vulnerabilities of these historic masonry buildings. The data gathered from these inspections provide essential insights into potential seismic risks. This data, alongside fragility curves generated from 3D finite element (FE) models using nonlinear time-history analysis, informs the creation of seismic risk maps for Agios Dometios. These maps offer a comprehensive depiction of the area's seismic vulnerability, particularly concerning the masonry structures, serving as invaluable resources for local authorities and conservationists in strategizing preservation and reinforcement measures, and in formulating mitigation plans. This study's approach, blending field inspections with advanced computational analysis, provides a robust framework for assessing the seismic risks of masonry structures. It holds significant implications for preserving architectural heritage in seismically active regions, offering a model that can be replicated in similar urban contexts.
ALTERNATIVE LOAD PATH AVOIDING BRIDGE COLLAPSE AFTER DEMOLITION OF A PIER BY COLLISION
Authors: VAN BOGAERT PHILIPPE , De Backer Hans
Published: May 2024

Present codes require structures to be designed sufficiently robust, either by creating alternative load paths, or by increasing resistance of members. In the case of collision of column piers, alternative load paths seem to be an unworkable solution, since the loss of an essential support cannot be replaced by some other column or bracing. If all the columns of the same pier are destroyed, the adjacent beams of a concrete bridge are no longer in equilibrium, unless they become continuous and thus a corresponding bending moment can arise. The latter can be delivered by a couple of forces. The compressive force on top of the beams is provided by the bridge slab itself. The tensile force can be provided by a steel plate, below the bearings of the adjacent beams. Once the damaged condition comes about, there is a slight further shift of the bearings and the steel plate acts as a tensile element. A small-scale test has allowed us to confirm this principle experimentally. This idea has been tested for two cases of concrete bridges. A standard road bridge of multiple 34 m span of 39 precast prestressed hollow core girders and a 22.5 m span with classical I-section girders. Dummy cables are necessary to compensate the effect that bonded tendons are inactive at the ends of the PC-beams. Other details are still to be worked out, yet the general idea appears to be working and could meet the requirement for robustness.
LOAD-BEARING CAPACITY, BOND BEHAVIOR, ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT AND APPLICATION OF BFRP-REINFORCEMENT IN CONCRETE
Authors: Lengert Kay , Görtz Stephan
Published: May 2024

Because of its high tensile strength, high durability and comparatively low environmental impact reinforcement made of BFRP should be investigated on its usability as structural reinforcement. Further, there is the ability to increase the life span of concrete members due to the use of BFRP-reinforcement, what can also lower the environmental impact. Due to the fact that reinforcement products made of BFRP are not generally regulated normatively in Germany, there are many characteristics that have to be investigated experimentally At the Kiel UAS experimental and numerical investigations on the flexural and shear capacity and the bond and cracking behavior of BFRP-reinforced concrete members were carried out. Based on this, specific applications where developed. As examples a BFRP-reinforced bridge cap made of RC-concrete and a ground plate with BFRP-reinforcement can be named. In conclusion we can say that the benefit of using BFRP-reinforcement depends on the application. Especially in corrosive milieu BFRP-reinforcement can be a useful alternative to steel-reinforcement.
THE STRUCTURAL BEHAVIOR OF RECYCLED AGGREGATE CONCRETE WALLS UNDER FIRE EXPOSURE: A FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS
Authors: Assad Maha , Hawileh Rami , Karaki Ghada , Abdalla Jamal
Published: May 2024

Climate change is raising the demand for change in the construction industry, particularly in the concrete industry. One of the approaches to increase sustainability in the concrete industry is the use of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC). Many studies examined the type and composition of RAC used in construction applications. However, fewer studies examined the structural engineering applications of RAC. Thus, this study investigates the use of RAC in bearing walls. It presents a comprehensive thermal and structural performance assessment of RAC walls exposed to fire using finite element analysis (FEA). The FE model incorporates experimental material models in the literature that consider the degradation of the mechanical properties of RAC at high temperatures. The investigation encompasses a range of critical response measures, including the out-of-plane response of RAC walls under standard fire exposure and the overall stability of the walls during fire scenarios. The walls' out-of-plane and axial deflection and damage patterns were presented. The upper and lower bounds of performance were presented to examine the effect of material models’ variability on the response. The findings of this study reveal the complex interaction between fire scenarios, material properties, and their effect on the structural behavior of RAC walls. This study contributes to the growing knowledge on using RAC in structural engineering applications and promoting environmentally friendly materials in the construction industry while ensuring structural safety.
WRAPPING PROCESS FOR BUILDING COMPONENTS MADE OF GLASSFIBER-AND TEXTILE-REINFORCED CONCRETE
Authors: Kufner Fabian , Rucker-Gramm Petra , Horstmann Michael
Published: May 2024

In the research project WiFaPu (wrapping process for highly fiber-reinforced concrete using the example of a pump sump) a wrapping process has been developed that combines the advantages of glassfiber-reinforced concrete and textile-reinforced concrete in terms of manufacturing processes and composite load-bearing behavior. In this process, a fine-grained concrete is sprayed with chopped-in short fibers on a carrier sheet and the textile reinforcement to produce a thin glassfiber-and textile-reinforced concrete layer with a defined thickness. This layer is continuously wrapped up onto a formwork to obtain a pump sump with an arbitrary cross-sectional thickness. The paper reports on the challenges in the development of the wrapping process and the associated coordination of the material components to produce durable members with monolithic blow-hole cross sections, acceptable surfaces and a reduced CO2 footprint. Pump sumps are produced as demonstrator components of the process. Their load-bearing capacity as well as their suitability for use are investigated in component tests. According to the experimental load tests, components with a high load-bearing capacity are produced. Filling tests show the overall high-water impermeability of the thin-walled components. This is made possible by fine-grained concrete with low water penetration depth and very small crack widths.
INNOVATIVE TORSIONAL STRENGTHENING OF RC T-BEAMS USING NSM FRP ROPES
Authors: Zapris Adamantis , Kytinou Violetta , Xynopoulos Ioannis , Gribniak Viktor , Chalioris Constantin
Published: May 2024

This study addresses the critical need for effective torsional strengthening techniques in reinforced concrete (RC) structures, with a focus on T-beams. Existing methods, particularly those utilizing externally bonded fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites, have been extensively studied for axial, bending, and shear loads, but torsional behavior remains a complex and underexplored area. The paper introduces a novel approach employing FRP ropes configured as closed stirrups, aiming to enhance torsional capacity while addressing practical challenges associated with conventional methods. Experimental investigations on T-shaped RC beams reveal promising results, demonstrating the effectiveness of FRP ropes in closed stirrup form. The findings not only contribute to a deeper understanding of this specific strengthening technique but also offer practical insights for designing and retrofitting RC structures susceptible to torsional loading. The study's outcomes have the potential to influence design practices, contribute to sustainable infrastructure development, and inform future guidelines for optimizing FRP strengthening strategies in T-beams.
EUROPEAN CLIMATE PROTECTION STRATEGY UNDER CONSIDERATION OF BUILT HERITAGE PRESERVATION
Authors: Quapp Ulrike , Holschemacher Klaus
Published: May 2024

Climate change affects all areas of life. The European Union strives for climate-neutrality of their members until 2050 with the project European Green Deal. By this, the emissions of greenhouse gases should be reduced to zero by 2050 with simultaneous economic development decoupled from resource use. 600 Billion Euros the European Union will spend to lower net greenhouse gas emissions until 2030 by at least 55%, compared to 1990 levels. Climate change affects historical structures, thus by variations in groundwater levels, hydrological cycle, or intense precipitation. However, also climate protection activities such as renewable energy installations may result in negative effects. Solar panels or wind turbines do not emit carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases but, installed nearby historical buildings, affect the historical appearance of structures. That may result in conflicts between ecological and heritage conservation interests. The authors inform about the European Green Deal and analyze effects of the planned measures on built heritage with a focus on solar and wind energy installations. They also discuss requirements from heritage preservation regulations. The manuscript analyzes how renewable energy installations may affect built heritage in its historical appearance. For that, the authors use available information about the European Green Deal, discuss current research literature and relevant German court cases. It is concluded that renewable energy installations may negatively affect the appearance of built heritage. Interests of climate protection and built preservation need to be balanced to ensure that future generations even can experience and enjoy the cultural heritage.
NUMERICAL MODELLING OF STRUCTURAL BAMBOO UNDER COMPRESSION
Authors: Rashid Zainab , Chinnasamy Gokulnath
Published: May 2024

Bamboo is a sustainable and eco-friendly material with great potential to replace traditionally available construction materials like concrete and steel. However, accurately predicting the behavior of bamboo is essential for improving the structural design codes, which will enhance the wider usage of bamboo as a structural member. In this study, the buckling of bamboo is modelled numerically as both cylindrical and tapered circular columns with varying elastic moduli across the cross-sections in ABAQUS. Then, the results were compared with Euler's equation derived for the cylindrical and tapered circular columns having homogeneous cross-sections. Finally, it was observed that columns with varying elastic moduli across the cross-section have 1.5 to 2.3 times a lesser buckling load capacity than columns with homogeneous cross-sections with outer Young's modulus value (Eo). Also, compared to buckling load homogeneous cross-sections with inner Young's modulus value (Ei), varying elastic modulus cross-sections have 1.7 to 2.7 times higher buckling load. This study emphasizes the necessity of having a simple analytical equation with varying elastic modulus for calculating the buckling load for bamboo columns.
USING MACHINE LEARNING TO PREDICT THE MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF PET FIBER-REINFORCED CONCRETE
Authors: Salim Abdelaziz Mahmoud , Junaid M Talha , Barakat Samer
Published: May 2024

Fiber-reinforced concrete enhances structural integrity by improving post-cracking behavior and ductility, yet traditional fibers can be costly and have a significant environmental impact. Recently, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fiber, derived from recycled plastic bottles, has been used as a reinforcing material in concrete to enhance its mechanical properties. Utilizing advanced machine learning algorithms, this research analyzes a comprehensive dataset collected from existing literature on the mechanical properties of PET fiber-reinforced concrete (PFRC), including concrete density, water-to-binder ratio, fine and coarse aggregates, and fiber parameters such as volume fraction and aspect ratio of PET fibers. Through the application of Polynomial Regression, Exponential Gaussian Process Regression (GPR), and Cubic Support Vector Machine (SVM) models, the study effectively predicts PFRC’s mechanical behavior, showcasing high R² values indicating the models’ predictive strength: 0.93 for compressive, 0.92 for flexural, and 0.92 for tensile properties. This investigation highlights the exceptional accuracy of Exponential GPR and Cubic SVM models in capturing complex, non-linear relationships within the material, demonstrating machine learning’s capability to advance the sustainable development of construction materials. This study provides significant insights into optimizing the use of recycled fibers for concrete reinforcement.
Performance of the Pivot Hooks to Enhance the Flexural Capacity of Bamboo Reinforced Concrete Beams
Authors: Ummati Alfinna Mahya , Michael Michael , Sarassantika I Putu Ellsa , Fanna Gibral Tariq , Syuhada Syahidus , Bayzoni Bayzoni , Nasution Ade Prayoga
Published: May 2024

Some researcher missed the role of hooks in their bamboo reinforcement. Consequently, the bamboo reinforcement and concrete used to have slip and failure to composited, this make the concrete and bamboo working independently to sustain the given loading and the bond failure become the main issue than the beam failure. This research studied about the role of the pivot hooks that capable to enhance the loading capacity higher than the beams without the pivot hooks. Experimental test performed in order to identify the effect of the pivot hooks presence which added to the flexural reinforcement which made by bamboo materials to avoid the bond slip failure that mostly occur in the bamboo reinforced concrete beams. The experimental test which verified by the numerical analysis by FEA NX commercial software proof that the pivot hooks are able to increase the loading capacity of a concrete beam 33% - 40% higher than the bamboo reinforcement without the pivot hooks. Architectural façade and budget efficiency caused the bamboo become unavoidable material in construction, by adding the structure modification such as the pivot hooks for the bamboo reinforcement, the failure can be reduced, then the entanglement of bamboo in construction become more functional.
IX Uroczysty Kongres Polonistów i Bibliotekarzy im. prof. Tadeusza Zgółki. Twórczy wymiar kształcenia polonistycznego: język a kultura cyfrowa
Authors: Zgółkowa Halina
Published: May 2024

IX Uroczysty Kongres Polonistów i Bibliotekarzy im. prof. Tadeusza Zgółki. Twórczy wymiar kształcenia polonistycznego: język a kultura cyfrowa. Warszawa 24.11.2023. Raport.
On the Alternation between Complex Prepositions and Adverbial Prepositions in Esperanto, such as en la mezo de vs. meze de / en la kadro de vs. kadre de
Authors: Gledhill Christopher
Published: May 2024

The grammar of Esperanto allows a derived adverbial to replace the initial element in any complex prepositional phrase, thus creating a range of equivalent structures such as en la mezo de / meze de ‘in the middle of’, en la kadro de / kadre de ‘in the framework of’ etc. This ‘adverbial alternation’ raises a number of questions. Are Adv Ps interchangeable with their Complex P counterparts? Do they occur with the same frequency? Does lexicalisation operate in the same way in Esperanto as it does in other languages? Here I examine a sample of alternating structures in a corpus of standard written Esperanto (Tekstaro >10 million tokens). While many pairs seem to be interchangeable, others appear to be developing contrastive use. The use of idioms and other marked units of phraseology is often seen as evidence that Esperanto has become an autonomous language. Here I point to evidence of less marked, more routine patterns of discourse which are unique to this speech community.
Apple-and-pin drawings by blind novices show occluded features: region theory
Authors: Kennedy John M. , Carboni Selene
Published: May 2024

Sighted children drawing an apple with a pin through it show the hidden parts of the pin. That is, not only is the pin shown running towards the apple and out the other side, it is also shown inside the apple, without a single break, and so the sketch depicts the occluded parts of the pin. Several investigators have offered theories of the observation. We report here on tangible raised-line drawings by young blind people who are novices at drawing. They also include occluded segments of the pin. To explain the drawings we use the John Willats region theory. In this account, enclosed regions represent the volumes of 3D objects. According to region theory, what is in the interior of an object should be shown in the drawing even if it cannot be seen or touched. As a result, since occluded parts of the pin are inside the apple, blind children, like sighted children, include them in their drawings. In region theory, for both the blind and the sighted, long lines on a 2D pictorial surface represent elongated objects in the scene and regions on the surface represent 3D objects and their contents. The basis of region theory may be that sensory information for pins and lines has high-frequency components, and for apples and regions has lower-frequency components.
Capillary-assisted flat-field formation: a platform for advancing nanoparticle tracking analysis in an integrated on-chip optofluidic environment
Authors: Gui Fengji , Foerster Ronny , Wieduwilt Torsten , Zeisberger Matthias , Kim Jisoo , Schmidt Markus A.
Published: May 2024

Here, we present the concept of flat-field capillary-assisted nanoparticle tracking analysis for the characterization of fast diffusing nano-objects. By combining diffusion confinement and spatially invariant illumination, i.e., flat-fields, within a fiber-interfaced on-chip environment, ultra-long trajectories of fast diffusing objects within large microchannels have been measured via diffraction-limited imaging. Our study discusses the design procedure, explains potential limitations, and experimentally confirms flat-field formation by tracking gold nanospheres. The presented concept enables generating flat-fields in a novel on-chip optofluidic platform for the characterization of individual nano-objects for fundamental light/matter investigations or applications in bioanalytics and nanoscale material science.
Enhancing metasurface fabricability through minimum feature size enforcement
Authors: Terekhov Pavel , Chang Shengyuan , Rahman Md Tarek , Shafi Sadman , Ahn Hyun-Ju , Zhao Linghan , Ni Xingjie
Published: May 2024

The metasurfaces have shown great potential for miniaturizing conventional optics while offering extended flexibility. Recently, there has been considerable interest in using algorithms to generate meta-atom shapes for these metasurfaces, as they offer vast design freedom and not biased by the human intuition. However, these complex designs significantly increase the difficulty of fabrication. To address this, we introduce a design process that rigorously enforces the fabricability of both the material-filled (fill) and empty (void) regions in a metasurface design. This process takes into account specific constraints regarding the minimum feature size for each region. Additionally, it corrects any violations of these constraints across the entire device, ensuring only minimal impact on performance. Our method provides a practical way to create metasurface designs that are easy to fabricate, even with complex shapes, hence improving the overall production yield of these advanced meta-optical components.
Journalists Gaining Trust Through Silencing of the Self
Authors: Hansen Ejvind
Published: May 2024

Journalists depend on two vectors of trust: the trust invested in them by their sources, and the trust invested in them by their end-users. For many years, trust has become a key issue in the articulation of the journalistic profession. This paper distinguishes between two traditional approaches to earn public trust: either through an emphasis on the ideal of objectivity, or by a sort of showing one’s cards: an explicit declaration of one’s subjectivity. Through a reading of Løgstrup, Derrida, and Deleuze, we argue that both positions are inadequate solutions to the problem of trust. In as much as subjectivity is continuously negotiated in interaction with the unknown and the uncontrollable, the poles of objectivity and subjectivity cannot define the narrative event without each supplementing the other. To escape from this impasse, we suggest a third approach: a hospitable journalism characterized by a hospitable attitude towards the uncontrollable and the strange, or unknown, which operates to make the individual more aware of herself and her place in the world. This invitation happens through a silencing of the self.
Synthesis and characterization of Ag@Ni co-axial nanocables and their fluorescent and catalytic properties
Authors: Sharif Sadia , Ahmed Taiba , Ahmad Zahoor , Choudhary Muhammad Aziz , Arshad Muhammad
Published: May 2024

We report here a convenient, rapid one-pot synthesis of new metal–metal core–shell nanocomposites comprising silver nanowires (AgNWs) coated with nickel. The resulting AgNWs and nickel-coated silver nanocables average 60–80 nm in diameter were prepared by the polyol synthetic route. This method employed ethylene glycol as a reducing agent and polyvinylpyrrolidone as a capping agent. These nanomaterials are designated as AgNWs (0.1 M) and Ag@Ni (0.2 M), Ag@Ni (0.3 M), Ag@Ni (0.4 M), and Ag@Ni (0.5 M) nanocables based on the nickel content and were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–Visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy, and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. The morphology of each nanowire and nanocable was clarified using SEM, while EDX quantified the presence of Ni. XRD patterns confirmed the face-centered cubic structure of the nanomaterials. The Debye–Scherrer formula was applied to establish different characteristics such as crystallite size and lattice constant. Surface plasmon resonance was measured using UV−Vis spectroscopy and fluorescence of each product was determined by PL spectroscopy, respectively. Both the AgNWs and Ag@Ni nanocables catalyze the reduction of p-nitrophenol to p-aminophenol by sodium borohydride.
Bifurcation investigation, phase synchronization and FPGA implementation of a new photosensitive Fitz Hugh Nagumo neuron based meminductor
Authors: Nguemo Tchoupa Kevine Lena , Kammogne Alain Soup Tewa , Siewe Martin Siewe , Talonang Noufozo Cedric
Published: May 2024

This paper focuses on the estimation of the nonlinear encoding and responses of a photosensitive Fitz Hugh Nagumo (FHN) neuron-based-meminductor and provides a relevant analysis of its phase synchronization. In the pattern, a Fitz Hugh–Nagumo neuron connected to a meminductor is activated by a photocell, and a time-varying current source is generated by the presence of external optical signals. This coupling is a benchmark circuit with memory similar to artificial eyes with the ability to capture and encode external signals. It is designed with the aim of studying the dynamics of a neuron with a memory effect highlighted through the meminductor. An appropriate dynamical analysis is provided using standard indicators such as bifurcations to point out thorough transitions and the nature of the electrical neuronal activities. Some couplings between two FHN neurons with meminductor using hybrid synapses composed of passive electronic components are achieved. Relevant tools are used to analyze the stability of the synchronization which gives prominent details on the selection of the appropriate coupling. The energy balance of the external system is evaluated which gives the effort to achieve encoding signals and also proves the feasibility of the proposal in real-time implementation. Simulations are performed on FPGA. The results present a good agreement. In many engineering applications, the detection of optical signals is inescapable as well as the synchronization of its signals for the transmission of the stimuli. These results could be useful for the designer.
Morphology of titanium, zirconium and hafnium nanofilms deposited onto zirconia ceramic at annealing in vacuum
Authors: Durov O.V. , Stetsyuk T.V.
Published: May 2024

The morphology of titanium, zirconium, and hafnium nanofilms deposited onto zirconia after annealing in vacuum at 1400, 1500, and 1600°C was studied. Nanofilms show a tendency to fragmentation; for titanium it begins at 1400°C, for zirconium and hafnium at 1500°C. At further heating, titanium nanofilm coagulates, while zirconium and hafnium nanofilms interact with the oxygen of the substrate. Tendencies for the formation of swellings on films prior to fragmentation and a certain role of grain boundaries in the cases of titanium and hafnium were noted.
Utilizing SSR markers to examine the population structure and molecular genetic diversity of walnut (Juglans regia L.) genotypes in the Northwestern Himalayan region of Jammu and Kashmir
Authors: Wani Ab Waheed , Hassan Ghulam I. , Bhat Khalid M. , Ahmad Meraj , Siddiqui Manzer H. , Kumar Sanjeev , Naresh Ram K. , Gupta Rajeev Kumar
Published: May 2024

By using 16 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers, the genetic relatedness of 21 exceptional walnut genotypes was assessed. A significant degree of genetic diversity was observed within a given population, as indicated by the number of alleles per locus ranging from 2 to 4. WGA-1, WGA-4, and WGA-79 contained the greatest number of alleles (4), followed by WGA-118, WGA-202, and WGA-42. Conversely, WGA-27, WGA-69, and WGA-32 contained the fewest alleles. The range of the PIC value was 0.11 to 0.38. Using model-based cluster analysis, all genotypes were categorized into two primary clusters according to the UPGMA dendrogram, with varying degrees of sub-clustering. All the genotypes were categorized into six genetically distant subpopulations. The genotypes were genetically distinct but had variable degrees of admixture. The anticipated heterozygosity at a specific locus ranged from 0.563 to 0.741. Additionally, population differentiation (Fst) ranged between 0.176 and 0.261. These findings highlight the importance of considering germplasm diversity in walnut breeding programs and conservation efforts aimed at enhancing walnut cultivation in the region. Overall, this study contributes to our understanding of walnut genetic diversity in the Northwestern Himalayan region of Jammu and Kashmir and informs future breeding and conservation strategies.
Properties of generalized synchronization of chaos
Authors: Pyragas K.
Published: May 2024

A review of recent ideas in the field of generalized synchronization of chaos is presented. This field is concerned with a generalization of the concept of conventional (identical) chaotic synchronization to the case of one-way coupled nonidentical chaotic systems. Generalized synchronization is taken to occur if, ignoring transients, the response system becomes uniquely determined by the current state of the driving system, i. e., all trajectories in the phase space are attracted to a complex synchronization manifold that may have a fractal structure. Different tools for detecting and analyzing the properties of this type of synchronization are discussed.
Sira Nabawiyya: Historiography of the Prophet Muhammad by Three Modern Writers
Authors: Abror Muhamad , Rahma Awalia
Published: May 2024

PurposeThis study aimed to compare the narratives of three modern historiographies of the Sirah Nabawiya. It explored differences and similarities of Raḫīq Al-Makhtūm, Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources, and Membaca Sirah Nabi Muhammad dalam Sorotan Al-Qur'an dan Hadis-Hadis Sahih.MethodThis research employed a qualitative approach, adopting the historical method. The primary data were the most recent published editions of Al-Raḥīq Al-Makhtūm (2019) by Safiyurrahman Al-Mubarakfuri, Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources (2006) by Martin Lings, and Membaca Sirah Nabi Muhammad dalam Sorotan Al-Qur’an dan Hadis-Hadis Sahih (2018) by M. Quraish Shihab.Results/FindingsThe research showed that each of these three books was written in a chronological style. Al-Raḥīq Al-Makhtūm and Membaca Sirah Nabi Muhammad dalam Sorotan Al-Qur'an dan Hadis-Hadis Sahih offered more detailed information compared to Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources. In their historical analyses, each writer presented their respective perspectives and tendencies. Al-Mubarakfuri emphasized the comparison of historical data and explained the most valid source, while Lings presented the data in a friendly and approachable manner with no in-depth elaboration and personal analyses. Shihab's analysis, however, covered more complex issues beyond historiography, including verification, orientalist criticism, analysis of Quranic sources, and elaboration of moral values.ConclusionThese three works complied with the standard model of a chronological presentation of data and critical analysis, while maintaining a friendly and approachable tone through additional elaboration of perspectives. The authors maintained a balanced and objective approach according to their academic background.