bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genotyping of Endosperms to Determine Seed Dormancy Genes Regulating Germination Through Embryonic, Endospermic, or Maternal Tissues in Rice
Authors: Gu Xing-You , Zhang Jinfeng , Ye Heng , Zhang Lihua , Feng Jiuhuan
Published: December 2014

Seed dormancy is imposed by one or more of the embryo, endosperm, and maternal tissues that belong to two generations and represent two ploidy levels. Many quantitative trait loci (QTL) have been identified for seed dormancy as measured by gross effects on reduced germination rate or delayed germination in crop or model plants. This research developed an endosperm genotype−based genetic approach to determine specific tissues through which a mapped QTL regulates germination using rice as a model. This approach involves testing germination velocity for partially after-ripened seeds harvested from single plants heterozygous for a tested QTL and genotyping endosperms from individual germinated and nongerminated seeds with a codominant DNA marker located on the QTL peak region. Information collected about the QTL includes genotypic frequencies in germinated and/or nongerminated subpopulations; allelic frequency distributions during a germination period; endosperm or embryo genotypic differences in germination velocity; and genotypic frequencies for gametes involved in the double fertilization to form the sampled seeds. Using this approach, the seed dormancy loci SD12, SD1-2, and SD7-1 were determined to regulate germination through the embryo, endosperm, and maternal tissues, respectively; SD12 and SD1-2 acted additively on germination velocity in the offspring tissues; and SD12 also was associated with the preferential fertilization of male gametes in rice. This new genetic approach can be used to characterize mapped genes/QTL for tissue-specific functions in endospermic seeds and for marker-assisted selection of QTL alleles before or immediately after germination in crop breeding.
Genetic Architecture of Natural Variation of Telomere Length inArabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Fulcher Nick , Teubenbacher Astrid , Kerdaffrec Envel , Farlow Ashley , Nordborg Magnus , Riha Karel
Published: December 2014

Telomeres represent the repetitive sequences that cap chromosome ends and are essential for their protection. Telomere length is known to be highly heritable and is derived from a homeostatic balance between telomeric lengthening and shortening activities. Specific loci that form the genetic framework underlying telomere length homeostasis, however, are not well understood. To investigate the extent of natural variation of telomere length in Arabidopsis thaliana, we examined 229 worldwide accessions by terminal restriction fragment analysis. The results showed a wide range of telomere lengths that are specific to individual accessions. To identify loci that are responsible for this variation, we adopted a quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping approach with multiple recombinant inbred line (RIL) populations. A doubled haploid RIL population was first produced using centromere-mediated genome elimination between accessions with long (Pro-0) and intermediate (Col-0) telomere lengths. Composite interval mapping analysis of this population along with two established RIL populations (Ler-2/Cvi-0 and Est-1/Col-0) revealed a number of shared and unique QTL. QTL detected in the Ler-2/Cvi-0 population were examined using near isogenic lines that confirmed causative regions on chromosomes 1 and 2. In conclusion, this work describes the extent of natural variation of telomere length in A. thaliana, identifies a network of QTL that influence telomere length homeostasis, examines telomere length dynamics in plants with hybrid backgrounds, and shows the effects of two identified regions on telomere length regulation.
A new brand strong association buyers of creation, positioning new food product equity
Authors: Bakanauskas Arvydas , Vanagienė Vitalija
Published: December 2014

The food market notable new brands, new food growing number range. Becomes relevant to the question of how to successfully position the new brand, raising strong associations, which were formed by other elements of the brand equity: identity, awareness, image, reputation, loyalty, distribution. There is new emphasis on the relevance of the food equity of importance. The aim of the article – to provide a new brand new food products equity on the market positioning, the creation of a strong association model. This model lacks not only the construction of a new brand equity concept, but also the process of identification . To achieve the objective, the paper presented a new brand equity concept of the equity of food in the context of the criteria. Theoretical methods to analyze the context of the still little systematic re-branding of a new food product on the market equity of the positioning, the creation of a strong association aspects, which, according to the principle of the algorithm to structure the process model. This model is recommended to use in order to successfully integrate the new brand equity new food product equity on the market. This model is recommended to refer to the area of marketing science and practice of professionals in order to better integrate the new brand new food product on the market. The model is recommended to determine the eligibility simulation study and expert opinion.
The patterns of thr Lithuanian credit union performance
Authors: Baležentis Tomas , Kantaravičienė Asta , Kėdaitis Vytautas
Published: December 2014

The paper analyses the patterns of the performance of Lithuanian credit unions united under the Lithuanian Central Credit Union. A system of indicators describing the performance of the credit unions has been established in order to tackle the heterogeneity among the credit unions and asses its dynamics. The overlapping clustering was employed for the research. The research is based on data covering years 2008–2012. Such a framework enabled us to compare the performance of the credit unions amidst the economic turbulences fuelled by the global financial crisis. The overlapping clustering yielded the three groups of the credit unions comprising the unions featuring different levels of the performance efficiency. The results did indicate that the economic crisis altered the structure of these groups. Indeed, it was found out that the financial index (rating) assigned to the credit unions does not necessarily reflect the result obtained by tie multivariate statistical methodology.
Health status of the rural population in Poland
Authors: Bem Agnieszka , Ucieklak-Jeż Paulina
Published: December 2014

The aim of this paper is to evaluate the health of the elderly, living in rural areas of Poland. The analysis based on a survey “The health status of the Polish population” carried out by the Central Statistical Office (GUS). In order to assess the differences in the health status of the villagers and townsfolk’s we have examined the share of older people living in rural and urban areas in the structure of the whole population. We have also identified the measures of the health status. We have calculated, using the Sullivan method, the value of Healthy Life Expectancy, Disability Free Life Expectancy,.Chronic Disease Life for the Polish rural and urban elderly population. The study has shown, the villagers live shorter in good health (without disability and chronic diseases). Presented study allows to formulate the desirable directions of changes to improve the health status of rural population. This should lead to more effective health care in rural areas.
Multi-criteria assessment of agricultural buildings sustainability behavior
Authors: Drejeris Rolandas
Published: December 2014

Sustainability of agricutural building's behavior is important characteristic which influence not only expenditure of its design, building and management, but also the choice of housing, working safety, and ease of implementation of these decisions. Models of sustainability assessment suggested in scientific and special literature are based by only several different criteria, so in that way sustainability connot be measured overall. There is no single summarizing indicator which would cover all the aspects of the building's sustainability behavior. The aim of this article is to present methodology for assessment of the agricultural building's sustainability behavior. Presented methodology is based on “Copras” method of multi – criteria evaluation which is build on selected and justified 76 criteria, and they are grouped in 12 parts. It also includes innovative recommendations for the experts‘ assessment for using mentioned criteria.
Interaction between satisfaction and loyalty of Lithuanian tourists: a moderating effect of natural features
Authors: Grigaliūnaitė Viktorija , Pilelienė Lina
Published: December 2014

The moderating effect of natural features on the effect of Lithuanian tourist satisfaction to loyalty is being analyzed in the article. Experience of foreign countries and scientific researches justify the positive effect of tourist satisfaction to loyalty. Nevertheless, this effect is considered as complex due to the possibility of the endogenous or exogenous latent variables’ moderating effect. Natural features of the country may be regarded as such variable. Taking into account that there is a lack of scientific researches about the moderating effect of natural features in the case of Lithuania, it is worth analyzing the interaction effect between tourist satisfaction and loyalty. The aim of the article is to determine the interaction effect between Lithuanian tourist satisfaction and loyalty regarding natural features as a moderator variable. While achieving the aim of the article, the analysis of scientific literature is provided. Furthermore, quantitative research and the analysis of the research results using structural equation modelling are applied. As a research results, the interaction effect of Lithuanian tourist satisfaction to loyalty is determined and the moderating effect of natural features is assessed.
The impact of direct payments on the activity results of agricultural producers
Authors: Kripaitis Rolandas , Namiotko Virginia , Galnaitytė Aistė , Jedik Andrej
Published: December 2014

Direct payments are one of the most important measure of the Common Agricultural Policy because of majority financial resources allocated for them. Direct payments guarantee minimum income to agricultural producers because of fluctuation agricultural products price in the markets. Regarding relatively large financial resources, it important to assess the impact of direct payments to agricultural producers according to farm size and type of farming. The purpose of the paper is to assess the impact of direct payments to results of agricultural activity. The methods used are as follows: systematic analyses of scientific literature, comparison, generalization and graphical methods, regression analysis. In the paper the overview of scientific literature related to the impact of direct payments to agricultural producers, analysis of the influence of direct payments to agricultural activity both in EU countries, focusing the attention to Lithuanian agriculture is carried out. The results of regression analysis concerning the direct payments impact to different agricultural activity results according to the farm size and farming type are outlined.
TRAP-Positive Multinucleated Giant Cells Are Foreign Body Giant Cells Rather Than Osteoclasts: Results From a Split-Mouth Study in Humans
Authors: Lorenz Jonas , Kubesch Alica , Korzinskas Tadas , Barbeck Mike , Landes Constantin , Sader Robert A. , Kirkpatrick Charles J. , Ghanaati Shahram
Published: December 2014

This study compared the material-specific tissue response to the synthetic, hydroxyapatite-based bone substitute material NanoBone (NB) with that of the xenogeneic, bovine-based bone substitute material Bio-Oss (BO). The sinus cavities of 14 human patients were augmented with NB and BO in a split-mouth design. Six months after augmentation, bone biopsies were extracted for histological and histomorphometric investigation prior to dental implant insertion. The following were evaluated: the cellular inflammatory pattern, the induction of multinucleated giant cells, vascularization, the relative amounts of newly formed bone, connective tissue, and the remaining bone substitute material. NB granules were well integrated in the peri-implant tissue and were surrounded by newly formed bone tissue. Multinucleated giant cells were visible on the surfaces of the remaining granules. BO granules were integrated into the newly formed bone tissue, which originated from active osteoblasts on their surface. Histomorphometric analysis showed a significantly higher number of multinucleated giant cells and blood vessels in the NB group compared to the BO group. No statistical differences were observed in regard to connective tissue, remaining bone substitute, and newly formed bone. The results of this study highlight the different cellular reactions to synthetic and xenogeneic bone substitute materials. The significantly higher number of multinucleated giant cells within the NB implantation bed seems to have no effect on its biodegradation. Accordingly, the multinucleated giant cells observed within the NB implantation bed have characteristics more similar to those of foreign body giant cells than to those of osteoclasts.
Multidisciplinary Therapeutic Approach for a Severe Mucogingival Deformity
Authors: Lecio Giovana , Cirano Fabiano Ribeiro , Casati Marcio Zaffalon , Ribeiro Fernanda Vieira , Casarin Renato Corrêa Viana , Pimentel Suzana Peres
Published: December 2014

Introduction: Orthodontic movement beyond the alveolar osseous limits may be associated with a greater tendency for developing severe gingival recession (GR), leading to esthetic compromise.

Case Presentation: The purpose of this case report is to report the decision‐making process for the treatment of a challenging localized GR with root apex exposure caused by orthodontic movement; it was treated successfully after multidisciplinary approaches involving endodontic treatment, dental apicoectomy, and two periodontal mucogingival procedures, including a laterally positioned flap, subepithelial connective tissue, and bone grafts. The 2‐year follow‐up showed complete root coverage, long‐term stability of the gingival margin along with esthetic tissue contour and coloration, increased keratinized tissue, and complete filling of the bone depression.

Conclusions: This case report serves as an example of how complex GRs caused by orthodontic movement may be resolved successfully by multidisciplinary approaches and using suitable root coverage techniques. The use of combined techniques in the present case report achieved complete root coverage and long‐term stability of the gingival margin and delivered the esthetics expected by the patient.
The potential of a semi-decentralised bulk water treatment approach for emergency relief
Authors: Dorea Caetano C. , Jalaber Vincent
Published: December 2014

Humanitarian water treatment interventions vary from package bulk ‘kits’ to household (point-of-use) options. Whereas the former can be perceived to be too complex to operate, the latter, whilst relatively simple and effective, has logistical requirements that may hinder its application during relief operations. This study evaluates the potential of a semi-decentralised water treatment approach for humanitarian emergencies. Its performance was evaluated against the relevant water quality treatment objectives (The Sphere Project) under controlled laboratory conditions using a synthetic test water. Results revealed that whilst the recommended minimum free chlorine residual levels were not attained (possibly due to high chlorine demand of test water), all other treatment objectives were within desired values, namely: <1 colony-forming unit (cfu)/100 mL with regards to thermotolerant (faecal) coliforms and <5 NTU (nephelometric turbidity units) for treated water turbidity. Given the performance of the semi-decentralised approach tested here, it could be expected to attain all treatment objectives when tested in natural surface waters. It has the potential to bridge the gap between centralised (i.e. bulk water treatment kits) and fully decentralised (i.e. household) water supply strategies.
Microfinance partnerships to improve access to durable water filters: results from six pilots in India and Cambodia
Authors: Blanton Elizabeth M. , Chankova Slavea , Ganesan Ramakrishnan , Elliott Tim , Dargan Tanya , Goodyear Lorelei L.
Published: December 2014

PATH collaborated with manufacturers and microfinance institutions (MFIs) in India and Cambodia to test the impact of consumer finance models on uptake and use of household water filters. Six pilots were implemented using different filters, partners, and loan plans. The pilots predominantly reached households from the middle three country-specific wealth quintiles. Purchase rates ranged from 5 to 44% among MFI members and increased with household wealth quintile. Cost recovery for the pilots ranged from 33 to 109%. The results suggest that MFI loans can have the potential, in certain contexts, to provide an effective and commercially sustainable means of increasing uptake of water treatment solutions for MFI member households.
Features of Vulgar Latin in the inscriptions of Naissus
Authors: Nedeljkovic Vojin
Published: December 2014

The epigraphic material from the region of Naissus, in spite of its relative
scarcity and poor state of preservation, offers valuable examples of Vulgar
Latin usage. Interesting phenomena include an instance of the imperial name
Pertinax in the form Pertenax, which may be due to a vulgar reinterpretation
of the name (?Very Tough?, cf. Constans, Valens, sim.) and may imply
rhizotony (Pert?nax); the adjective superstantes ?survivors?, apparently the
issue of two consequent vulgar developments, superstes > superstens
(hypercorrect spelling) > superstans (false analogy); an isosyllabic 3rd
declension nominative singular, Melioris (from the name Melior), as well as
a 3rd decl. dative singular generi from the 2nd decl. noun gener
?son-in-law?; an early borrowing from Germanic, brutes ?daughter-in-law?; a
?weak? future participle, sequiture, for secuturae; the bastard noun
volumptas, cf. voluntas and voluptas; a correlative construction with
sic...sic for quemadmodum...sic; and the verb adjuvare followed by a dative,
which illustrates a vulgarism known from the Glossaries. Another kind of
vulgarity, which is rather a matter of simplicity than purely linguistic
incompetence, is found in cases such as an epitaph whose dedicator calls
herself bene merita; or a semi-metric inscription-a commaticum-whose actual
text may be the outcome of tampering with a regular epigraphic poem
The Avar-Byzantine wars of the late sixth century as depicted by Nikephoros Kallistos Xanthopoulos: A new source?
Authors: Ivanov Sergey
Published: December 2014

At least three fragments places in Nikephoros Kallistos Xanthopoulos?
narrative of the Avar wars have no parallels either in Theophylakt Simokatta
or in Theophanes. The nature of the evidence cited in these passages cannot
be a logical reconstruction based on the texts of either of the mentioned
authors. This means that Xanthopoulos, the Church historian of the 14th
century, had at his disposal a source on the 6th century which has not come
down to us.
Was there a “pre-feudal” crisis? On Ljubomir Maksimovic’s inaugural lecture before the Academy of Athens
Authors: Lounghis Telemachos
Published: December 2014

In the period of long wars on several fronts (7th-9th centuries) a free
village commune emerges as a basic source for state taxes and necessary
military units; the social differentiation within the village commune should
be marked as a background for all political struggles and upheavals, which
have guided byzantine society after its ?aristocratization? in the 9th
century (as Kazdan argued). The strategoi of themata, who represented village
communes in 717 and who ?nationalized? church estates under the Isaurians,
are being reconciled with the church again after 787 and form, together with
it, the core of the new ruling class.
Erster und zweiter Sieger. Zum Byzantinisch-Karolingischen bündnis bezüglich Bari 870-871
Authors: Kislinger Ewald
Published: December 2014

The growth of Arab power in Southern Italy and even Dalmatia menaced the
Byzantine Empire as well as Carolingian Italy and led both to an alliance in
869/870. Their attempt, however, to conquer Bari in a joint attack failed in
870 (not 869) due to a lack of coordination. An exchange of letters, which
followed between Basil I and Louis II, reveals cultural and ideological
alienation between christian East and West.
Travelling judges in Byzantine Macedonia (10th-11th c.)
Authors: Morris Rosemary
Published: December 2014

While it is often unclear where court cases were held in the Byzantine
provinces, evidence from the Athonite archives for the region of Macedonia
suggests the imperial judges heard cases in specific ?assize towns? and other
places as well as in the theme capital of Thessalonike. Based on case-studies
from the Athonite archives and using the occurrence of the term kathisma as
an indication of the existence of an provincial administrative and judicial
centre, it is suggested that regular judicial circuits still took place in
the 10th and 11th centuries. The imperial government thus demonstrated its
concern for the provision of justice in the provinces in the same way as had
its Roman predecessors.
Retour sur le dossier du monastère de la Théotokos Éleousa à Stroumitza
Authors: Kaplan Michel
Published: December 2014

The monastery of the Theotokos Eleousa at Stroumitza in Macedonia, founded by
the bishop of this city at the end of the 11th century is an original one.
Despite it was a little monastery, despite its scarce endowment, a part of
the documents it issued or received reached us, even its cartulary carried
out by the Athonite monks of Iviron, transcribed about 150 years ago, cannot
be found any more. This article tries to reconstitute the history of these
archives and points out where this monastery, which became a metochion of
Iviron, is mentioned.
Das ritual der unterwerfung Stefan Nemanjas unter Maunel I. Komnenos (1172)
Authors: Vucetic Martin
Published: December 2014

This article investigates the ceremonial of the subjection of the Serbian
zupan Stefan Nemanja to the Byzantine emperor Manuel I Komnenos (1172) and
compares it with similar events of the period in question. It argues for a
strong influence of western forms of conflict resolution (?deditio?) in the
ceremonial.
Αγιοσ Γεωργιοσ ο Γοργοσ: Η αλληγορικη ερμηνεια στην εννοιολογικη μεταλλαξη του επιθετου
Authors: Kacaros Vasilis
Published: December 2014

The author of this article attempts to interpret the name ?gorgos? associated
with Saint George, utilizing data from the oldest tradition in conjunction
with the historical environment in which revives the worship of the saint as
equestrian Akrita warrior. The relationship of the rider hero with his
warhorse raises the heroism of the military saints of the East, particularly
of Cappadocia at a time when the bravery and the heroism of the lads of the
Akritian circle is generally emerging. The combination akrita/soldier and
farmer meets at the same person of Saint George, who later appears in the
iconography, as protector of the water, highlighting the type of
?dragonslayer?. As a formidable equestrian warrior, the Saint smites the
enemies of Byzantium during the two wars that Constantine IX Monomachus
conducts against the Patsinakoi, considering that Saint George stood firmly
by his side. So George as ?gorgos? warrior, is being adopted as the protector
of the palace at whom the emperor dedicates the temple of the Mangana Palace.
With the status of ?protector? of the imperial house of Byzantium, Saint
George becomes prostate symbol of the ?royal house? and is being adopted in
imitation, from the Serbian House of Nemanides, whose members lived in the
environment of the capital of Byzantium and experienced customs and
traditions of the Byzantine court and society. This explains the
?transposition? of the worship of Saint George with the status of warrior -
?gorgos? protector of Byzantium at the Serbian territory of the house of
Nemanides and appears to resort in the monuments, accepting the great honor
as ?family saint protector? from the rulers of the dynasty that had
multifarious relations with Byzantium.
Longitudinal Assessment of Neuroanatomical and Cognitive Differences in Young Children With Type 1 Diabetes: Association With Hyperglycemia
Authors: Mauras Nelly , Mazaika Paul , Buckingham Bruce , Weinzimer Stuart , White Neil H. , Tsalikian Eva , Hershey Tamara , Cato Allison , Cheng Peiyao , Kollman Craig , Beck Roy W. , Ruedy Katrina , Aye Tandy , Fox Larry , Arbelaez Ana Maria , Wilson Darrell , Tansey Michael , Tamborlane William , Peng Daniel , Marzelli Matthew , Winer Karen K. , Reiss Allan L. ,   for the Diabetes Research in Children Network (DirecNet)
Published: December 2014

Significant regional differences in gray and white matter volume and subtle cognitive differences between young diabetic and nondiabetic children have been observed. Here, we assessed whether these differences change over time and the relation with dysglycemia. Children ages 4 to <10 years with (n = 144) and without (n = 72) type 1 diabetes (T1D) had high-resolution structural MRI and comprehensive neurocognitive tests at baseline and 18 months and continuous glucose monitoring and HbA1c performed quarterly for 18 months. There were no differences in cognitive and executive function scores between groups at 18 months. However, children with diabetes had slower total gray and white matter growth than control subjects. Gray matter regions (left precuneus, right temporal, frontal, and parietal lobes and right medial-frontal cortex) showed lesser growth in diabetes, as did white matter areas (splenium of the corpus callosum, bilateral superior-parietal lobe, bilateral anterior forceps, and inferior-frontal fasciculus). These changes were associated with higher cumulative hyperglycemia and glucose variability but not with hypoglycemia. Young children with T1D have significant differences in total and regional gray and white matter growth in brain regions involved in complex sensorimotor processing and cognition compared with age-matched control subjects over 18 months, suggesting that chronic hyperglycemia may be detrimental to the developing brain.
Change in Quality Management in Diabetes Care Groups and Outpatient Clinics After Feedback and Tailored Support
Authors: Campmans-Kuijpers Marjo J. , Baan Caroline A. , Lemmens Lidwien C. , Rutten Guy E.
Published: December 2014

OBJECTIVE

To assess the change in level of diabetes quality management in primary care groups and outpatient clinics after feedback and tailored support.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This before-and-after study with a 1-year follow-up surveyed quality managers on six domains of quality management. Questionnaires measured organization of care, multidisciplinary teamwork, patient centeredness, performance results, quality improvement policy, and management strategies (score range 0–100%). Based on the scores, responders received feedback and a benchmark and were granted access to a toolbox of quality improvement instruments. If requested, additional support in improving quality management was available, consisting of an elucidating phone call or a visit from an experienced consultant. After 1 year, the level of quality management was measured again.

RESULTS

Of the initially 60 participating care groups, 51 completed the study. The total quality management score improved from 59.8% (95% CI 57.0–62.6%) to 65.1% (62.8–67.5%; P < 0.0001). The same applied to all six domains. The feedback and benchmark improved the total quality management score (P = 0.001). Of the 44 participating outpatient clinics, 28 completed the study. Their total score changed from 65.7% (CI 60.3–71.1%) to 67.3% (CI 62.9–71.7%; P = 0.30). Only the results in the domain multidisciplinary teamwork improved (P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Measuring quality management and providing feedback and a benchmark improves the level of quality management in care groups but not in outpatient clinics. The questionnaires might also be a useful asset for other diabetes care groups, such as Accountable Care Organizations.
Mechanical response of TiAl6V4 lattice structures manufactured by selective laser melting in quasistatic and dynamic compression tests
Authors: Merkt S. , Hinke C. , Bültmann J. , Brandt M. , Xie Y. M.
Published: December 2014

This paper focusses on the investigation of the mechanical properties of lattice structures manufactured by selective laser melting using contour-hatch scan strategy. The motivation for this research is the systematic investigation of the elastic and plastic deformation of TiAl6V4 at different strain rates. To investigate the influence of the strain rate on the mechanical response (e.g., energy absorption) of TiAl6V4 structures, compression tests on TiAl6V4-lattice structures with different strain rates are carried out to determine the mechanical response from the resulting stress-strain curves. Results are compared to the mechanical response of stainless steel lattice structures (316L). It is shown that heat-treated TiAl6V4 specimens have a larger breaking strain and a lower drop of stress after failure initiation. Main finding is that TiAl6V4 lattice structures show brittle behavior and low energy absorption capabilities compared to the ductile behaving 316L lattice structures. For larger strain rates, ultimate tensile strength of TiAl6V4 structures is more than 20% higher compared to lower strain rates due to cold work hardening.
Active Control Of Oscillation Patterns In Nonlinear Dynamical Systems And Their Mathematical Modelling
Authors: Šutová Zuzana , Vrábeľ Róbert
Published: December 2014

The article deals with the active control of oscillation patterns in nonlinear dynamical systems and its possible use. The purpose of the research is to prove the possibility of oscillations frequency control based on a change of value of singular perturbation parameter placed into a mathematical model of a nonlinear dynamical system at the highest derivative. This parameter is in singular perturbation theory often called small parameter, as ε → 0+. Oscillation frequency change caused by a different value of the parameter is verified by modelling the system in MATLAB.
Visible Light Communication Physical Layer Design for Jist Simulation
Authors: Tomaš Boris
Published: December 2014

Current advances in computer networking consider using visible light spectrum to encode and decode digital data. This approach is relatively non expensive. However, designing appropriate MAC or any other upper layer protocol for Visible Light Communication (VLC) requires appropriate hardware. This paper proposes and implements such hardware simulation (physical layer) that is compatible with existing network stack.
Risk Management in Companies –A Questionnaire as an Instrument for Analysing the Present Situation
Authors: Stiller Diana , Joehnk Peter
Published: December 2014

The topic risk management receives new impulses in the context of the financial and economic crisis in the years 2007 until 2011 as well as the question whether companies took consequences. The article briefly describes the importance of risk management and then explained the theoretical principles of empirical methods. Excerpts from developed questionnaire will be presented.
Silver Streaks on Surface of Injected Thermoplastic Parts
Authors: Bílik Jozef , Náplava Antonín , Kusý Martin , Košík Miroslav , Likavčan Lukáš
Published: December 2014

Silver streaks on injected thermoplastic parts are the undesirable features, considered as a visual surface defect. If they appear, elimination of this technological problem can be very difficult, especially in case the cause of their occurrence is not actually known. In this study, the detailed analysis of silver streaks formation was carried out. At first, the defect was microscopically studied. Then, the several analyses were performed to find the cause of silver streaks formation. Finally, solutions to the problem and elimination and this kind of surface defect were suggested.
Electron Beam Welding of Gear Wheels by Splitted Beam
Authors: Dřímal Daniel
Published: December 2014

This contribution deals with the issue of electron beam welding of high-accurate gear wheels composed of a spur gearing and fluted shaft joined with a face weld for automotive industry. Both parts made of the high-strength low-alloy steel are welded in the condition after final machining and heat treatment, performed by case hardening, whereas it is required that the run-out in the critical point of weldment after welding, i. e. after the final operation, would be 0.04 mm max..

In case of common welding procedure, cracks were formed in the weld, initiated by spiking in the weld root. Crack formation was prevented by the use of an interlocking joint with a rounded recess and suitable welding parameters, eliminating crack initiation by spiking in the weld root.

Minimisation of the welding distortions was achieved by the application of tack welding with simultaneous splitting of one beam into two parts in the opposite sections of circumferential face weld attained on the principle of a new system of controlled deflection with digital scanning of the beam.

This welding procedure assured that the weldment temperature after welding would not be higher than 400 °C.

Thus, this procedure allowed achieving the final run-outs in the critical point of gearwheels within the maximum range up to 0.04 mm, which is acceptable for the given application.

Accurate optical measurements did not reveal any changes in the teeth dimensions.
Research of Interaction Between Zn Based Solders and Cu, Al Substrates
Authors: Prach Michal , Kostolný Igor , Koleňák Roman
Published: December 2014

The paper deals with the study of interaction between Cu, Al substrates (purity 5N) and ZnAl4, ZnAg6Al6 zinc solders for higher application temperatures. Soldering was performed with power ultrasound in the air without flux application at temperature 420 °C. Acting time of ultrasonic vibration was 3 s and ultrasound frequency was 40 kHz. Soldered joints were assessed by optical light microscopy and EDX microanalysis. Intermetallic layers (IM) CuZn4 and Cu5Zn8 were formed at the Cu/ZnAl4 boundary. The βZn-αAl mechanical mixture was formed at the Al/ZnAl4 boundary. AgZn3 and Cu5Zn8 IM layers were formed at the Cu/ZnAg6Al6 boundary, and mechanical mixture of βZn-αAl and AgZn3 intermetallic mixture were formed at the boundary Al/ZnAg6Al6.
Progress Report on a Survey of Forensic Engineering Practices in IABSE Member Countries *
Authors: IABSE WG on Forensic Structural Engineering
Published: December 2014

IABSE’sWorking Group 8, Forensic Structural Engineering,aims to examine and mitigate failures, review and improve the professional practice of forensic structural engineering in the member countries, and facilitate the use of failure information to design and construction. To this end, one of the first activities of the recently formed WG was the initiation of a survey of the forensic practices and failure statistics in the IABSE member countries throughout the world.

A letter and a questionnaire were sent to the chair and secretary of each IABSE National Group in the fall of 2013; the answers in the completed and returned questionnaires have been recorded and arranged in organized formats. The information from the returns is presently being evaluated; conclusions from them will be drawn and disseminated later this year.

We have already learned from the responses that in many countries, developing as well as developed, there are no "established" procedures for the investigation of failures, resolution of the resulting claims and disputes, and use of the lessons learned. Engineers' response to disasters is a haphazard activity in many places. It is hoped that the results of this project will be helpful to IABSE member and other countries towards improving failure investigation and dispute resolution practices and, most importantly, mitigating structural and construction failures.

Some of the notable early findings are that: the term “forensic engineer” is used in only a handful of countries; in a few countries, e.g. Brazil and Finland, quasi- or fully-governmental authorities deal with failures but it appears that except for the USA and UK, there is no professional engineering organization dedicated to the professional practice of forensic engineering; while minimum qualifications of engineers performing forensic investigations are expected, they don’t appear to be required by law anywhere; organized databases/records of failures are kept in only a very few countries; the major causes of failures vary but are the results of human failings; the usual methods of dispute resolution vary, trial by court exists everywhere but arbitration is often used; and there is the need to improve forensic engineering practices in every country surveyed.
The Ortho-Composite-Slab of the Elbebridge Wittenberge
Authors: Jung Rolf , Mansperger Tobias
Published: December 2014

The main Bridge of the Elbebridge Wittenberge is a 3-span continuous beam steel bridge with a wave-like curved upper chord between the two carriageways. With spans of 126 - 160 - 126m and a slenderness of 32, the superstructure requires a light but fatigue resistant roadway slab. These requirements are fulfilled by an “ortho-composite” slab which consists of a reduced orthotropic steel deck and a 15cm thin in-situ concrete layer, connected by shear studs. The advantages of the ortho-composite slab compared to orthotropic steel decks are; the reduction of steel and welding effort, a much better fatigue resistance and no hazard of freezing rain. Compared to standard reinforced concrete slabs on steel girders, troughs or boxes, it is much lighter, easier and faster to build and gives a better stability during construction stages. As this construction type is not covered by German DIN-codes and German road authority contract conditions a single case approval is necessary. Large scale construction type tests have been performed for FLS, SLS and ULS truck loads. Additionally extensive FEM calculations have been carried out. The results show a massive reduction of stresses in the steel members compared to standard orthotropic steel decks and a huge load bearing reserve. All-in-all the ortho-composite-slab has proven to be the most economic and sustainable construction type for the Elbebridge Wittenberge.
Design and construction of the new St. Elmo Breakwater Footbridge in Valletta (Malta)
Authors: Beade Hector , Capellán Guillermo , Alfonso Pablo , García Marianela , Bezzina Alex , Buttigieg Jonathan
Published: December 2014

St. Elmo breakwater was constructed between 1903 and 1909 to convert the unique Valletta Grand Harbour in an all-weather port. An opening near its land end was left to prevent water stagnation and shorten routes for smaller crafts. Accessibility to the breakwater was possible by means of a two-span steel footbridge, erected in 1906, which was partly demolished in 1941 during WWII. The breakwater and its lighthouse remained isolated until 2012, only accessible by boat. Transport Malta organized a design-and-build competition for the reconstruction of the footbridge by the end of 2009. The new bridge successfully solves, using an innovative design concept, a complex problem: the reconstruction of a piece of Valletta's history, in harsh environmental conditions, and with exceptional construction constraints due to site inaccessibility. The new design is functional, contemporary, transparent, durable, with easy maintenance, sustainable and respectful with history.
Changing Neutral Axis for Effective Post-Tensioning of Long Span Concrete Girder
Authors: Kim Tae Min , Kim Do Hak , Kim Moon Kyum , Lim Yun Mook
Published: December 2014

Pre-stressed concrete (PSC) girder bridges had been introduced in Korea since 1960s and usually adopted for 25 ~ 35m span length. PSC girder bridges have been proved its excellent performance with cost saving and constructability compared to other types of bridges. So, there have been made many efforts to develop longer span PSC girders. A lot of accomplishments have been made for longer PSC girder bridges by adopting optimized cross sections and pre/post-tensioning. However, in many cases, there are limitations of working space on the construction site in Korea. Also, it is difficult to transport the pre-fabricated pre-tensioning PSC girders from a factory to the sites. That is why the post-tensioning method was widely spread in Korea to overcome those difficulties. Thus, PSC girders with post-tensioning on the construction site are considered as the most appropriate method for PSC in Korea. However, the post-tensioning method has a certain level of friction loss when the post-tensioning is applied over the tendon. Especially the longer span of PSC girder is, the larger the loss becomes. Thus, the longer span girders have larger the loss in tension between end section and middle section, and it is difficult to make accurate estimation the losses.

In this study, the research was performed to conduct the development of PSC girders with post- tensioning that can solve these problems and makes the longer span possible. For this purpose, different from that adopted by the conventional PSC girder, the tendon was positioned at the bottom of the girder in a straight manner. So it can minimize the instant losses due to friction. The possible negative moment on the end sections of the girder due to the straight positioning of the tendon overcame by applying the variable cross section along the members to change neutral axis closed to the tendon at the ends of the girder. The determination of this profile of tendon was made based on the comparison between various cases using the optimized cross section of girder and cross section evaluation technique. The bridge was designed to meet the allowable stresses proposed by Korean Highway Bridge Design Code through the review of stress at the work stage taking into consideration the manufacturing process of the girder. The real size mock-up girder with 60 meter long was manufactured and tested. As a result, there was an initial bending crack near the 1,400 kN for four point bending test. The load at this time was evaluated to be 2 times larger than the load used for first class bridge in Korea.
Fused seismic shock absorbers – an innovative solution for a high-speed rail viaduct of the AVE Granada Line, Spain
Authors: Moor Gianni , Meng Niculin , Baillés Borja
Published: December 2014

The high-speed AVE railway line to Granada is to cross a highly seismic area with an irregular topography. The design of a viaduct for one section requires its deck to be connected to one of its abutments by shock absorbers which generally act as rigid connections but which dissipate energy and protect the structure from overloading during a large earthquake. A solution has been developed, incorporating the modification of a standard shock absorber to feature an innovative fused connection. This connection is designed to resist fatigue from service loading, and to fail in a controlled manner under the action of a high seismic load, freeing the device to act as a damper. It thus provides seismic protection of the viaduct at its fixed point, contributing to an efficient abutment design. The device’s design and behaviour are described, with reference to its fulfilment

of the requirements of EN15129 and the testing that has proven its innovative functionality.
Design and Technological Innovation of Maanshan Yangtze River Highway Bridge
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Yang Guangwu , Tang Heqiang , Xu Rundong
Published: December 2014

Maanshan Yangtze River Highway Bridge was opened to traffic in December 31, 2013. It is a national key project of highway construction, which is beneficial to the improvement on the traffic network. Briefed here is the construction conditions and key technical innovation, with emphasis on the size and technical features of the bridges on the two channels.
New passengers terminal (TPS-3) of Guarulhos International Airport (Sao Paolo)
Authors: Montero Luis , Del Cuvillo Álvaro , Gonzalez Jesus , Alonso Natalia
Published: December 2014

This paper discusses the structural analysis and the design processes of the new passengers terminal of the International Guarulhos Airport.

Both processes, the detailed design and the construction works, were executed simultaneously due to the deadline was a short period of ten months.

A rigid joint precast structure was designed in order to adjust the work programme to the available execution period. The structural system was composed of pre-stressed beams and precast columns. A steel structure cover was designed with maximum spans of 36 m long.
Office Building “Belvedere”, Prestressed in three Directions
Authors: Ehmann Jochen , Englhardt Oliver , Gander Matthias , Kindle Elmar , Taferner Josef
Published: December 2014

In 2013 the structural part of the office building “Belvedere” in Vaduz (Liechtenstein) was finished. The building consists of 6 floors (one underground) and is above ground 25m x 65m in plan.

Supporting walls are offset 5,6 m from the edges of the slabs thus every slab bears a cantilever of 5,6 m. Only four cores of vertical circulation carry the load of the upper four floor slabs to basement and foundation. The building’s walls are arranged in two planes in chess board shape and are designed to support a 15-m-cantilever. Tendons have been used to reduce the deformation of the slabs and to reinforce the shear walls; hence the building is prestressed in three dimensions. A strut and tie model has been used to calculate the forces in the walls. Particular attention has been paid to the nodes of the trusses. These points were critical for the bearing capacity of the structure.
Scunthorpe Leisure Centre: concept, philosophy and appraisal of an award-winning innovative timber grid sports destination
Authors: Mccormick Fergus , Sharma Shrikant , Fisher Al
Published: December 2014

The paper is reflective of a design and delivery process through an interesting project in Scunthorpe in the North of England. The project is a community leisure centre and these buildings are often square and rectangular and uninspiring. The paper describes how a deliberately inventive and ambitious architecture was conceived to which the engineers responded also ambitiously with free form timber shells yet one which would respect also structural engineering logic of funicular shapes, and minimum volumes.
Los Gallardos – Sorbas High Speed Railway Viaducts. New Anti-Seismic Device to Face Horizontal Forces
Authors: Ramos Óscar Ramón , De Vena Jorge , Ortega Guillermo , Pantaleón Marcos J.
Published: December 2014

In Los Gallardos – Sorbas segment of the High Speed Railway between Murcia and Almería, there are 4 viaducts built span by span: Almocaizar Viaduct, Barranco Hondo Viaduct, La Gloria Viaduct and Barranco Los Giles Viaduct. This bridges are formed by a continuous concrete single-cell post- tensioned box-girder, erected span by span by means of a self launching formwork gantry and full shoring. They are situated in a medium risk seismic zone. In order to face the longitudinal earthquake action, a new anti-seismic device has been designed. It consists of hydraulic viscous dampers, to dissipate energy, in the abutments and sliding pendulum bearings with low friction, for recentering, on the piers. A nonlinear seismic analysis was carried out for the dimensioning of the anti seismic devices. Artificial acceleration time history for the earthquake analysis was needed.