bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermal characterization of fibrous aerogel blanket
Authors: Lakatos Ákos , Trnik Anton
Published: September 2019

Nowadays, the application of thermal insulation materials both by the existing and by new buildings is one of the most important actions in order to reduce the energy loss of buildings. Besides the use of the conventional insulations (plastic foams and wool materials) aerogel is one of the most promising thermal insulation material. Aerogels, one of the lightest solid materials available today, are manufactured through the combination of a polymer with a solvent forming a gel. For buildings the fibre reinforced ones are the mainly used types. It is produced by adding the liquid-solid solution to the fibrous batting. In this paper changes in the thermal performance of the aerogel blanket will be followed after thermal annealing. The samples will be put under isothermal heat treatments at 70 °C for 6 weeks, as well as they will be put under thermal treatment at higher temperatures (from 70 °C till 210 °C) for 1 day. The changes in the thermal conductivity will be followed by Holometrix Lambda heat flow meter, as well as, Differential Scanning Calorimetry results will be presented. From the measured values, thermal properties will be calculated. In this paper we will try to clarify the role played by thermal annealing in thermal diffusivity.
Hygric resistance in multilayer building materials – a prevision new methodology
Authors: Delgado João , Azevedo António , Ribeiro Isabel , Guimarães Ana. , Freitas Vasco
Published: September 2019

This work presents the results of an experimental campaign in order to determine the hygric resistance in multilayered building components, with different interface types. The results show a slowing of the wetting process due to the interfaces hygric resistance. The samples with hydraulic contact interface (cement mortar) present lower absorption rate than the samples with lime mortar. The influence of air space between layers was also demonstrated, i.e., the air space interfaces increase the coefficients of capillary significantly, as the distances from the contact with water increase.

The hygric resistance was calculated by three different methods: gravimetric and gamma-ray methods, and the new methodology proposed, an automatic calculation method without human opinion/criteria. The “knee point” was detected, numerically, in water absorption curves and the moisture-dependent interface resistance was quantified and validated for transient conditions. The methodology proposed to detect the “knee point” can be also used in the future for different multilayer materials with an interface, in order to obtain more correct hygric resistance values to be used in future numerical simulations.
Overheating risk and cooling demand in residential buildings: performance prediction and improvement using a prescriptive approach
Authors: Wadi Ameer , Alhayek Mahmoud , Pont Ulrich , Mahdavi Ardeshir
Published: September 2019

Depending on general climatic trends and specific (urban) microclimatic conditions, the reliable estimation of the overheating risk in buildings has become increasingly important. As such, detailed simulation of the related phenomena can provide useful information. However, deployment of detailed simulation involves a number of challenges, including time and effort expenditures not accounted for in typical building delivery processes. In this context, careful application of prescriptive methods may provide – at least for a specific class of applications – a reasonable alternative. The present contribution explores this possibility via a specific case study involving a large sample of residential buildings in Gaza, Palestine. This sample includes some fifty multi-unit apartment buildings representing the bulk of residential building stock in Gaza. These buildings were assessed via both numeric simulation and regression-based methods, assuming the latter can provide the basis for development and validation of a prescriptive approach. Toward this end, a number of independent variables were considered and the level of their association with the computed values of the designated building performance indicators was observed. Comparison of the regression-based and simulation-based methods revealed a reasonable level of agreement. This suggests that the proposed prescriptive method may provide an attractive alternative to highly detailed simulation.
Recent progress in the development of windows with vacuum glass
Authors: Pont Ulrich , Wölzl Magdalena , Schober Peter , Najaf Khosravi Shiva , Schuss Matthias , Mahdavi Ardeshir
Published: September 2019

This contribution reports on recent advances in the utilization of vacuum glass in contemporary window construction. Generally speaking, vacuum glazing consists of two glass panes with an evacuated interstitial space. To maintain the functionality of the glazing, a vacuum-tight edge seal and a grid of distance-holding pillars are required. Vacuum glazing features a first-rate thermal performance as it significantly reduces conductive and convective heat transport rates. In comparison to multi-pane insulation glasses of comparable thermal performance, vacuum glass products feature a reduced weight and construction depth. However, the application of vacuum glass in windows requires a critical rethinking of the current practice of window construction, especially with regard to thermal bridges and the related surface condensation risk at the glass/frame-construction joints. Specifically, the glass edge seal, which can be considered to be the weak spot of vacuum glass in terms of heat transfer, requires an insulating cover that is not provided in typical insulation glass frame configurations. Further relevant aspects to be considered include the structural stability of window constructions with vacuum glass, the acoustical performance, and issues regarding usability. In this context, the present contribution highlights the methodology and findings of two recent research projects (MOTIVE, FIVA) that addressed window construction requirements with regard to vacuum glazing deployment.
Determination of thermal conductivity of moist rigid polymer foams
Authors: Nikitsin Vadzim , Alsabry Abdrahman , Backiel-Brzozowska Beata , Kofanov Valery
Published: September 2019

A geometric model of the polymer foam structure was verified taking into account the moisture content of the material and the degree of wetness of the pore surface. Mathematical relations were developed to determine the moisture value at which transition from partial to full wetting of the pore surface occurs and vice versa. A mathematical description of the heat transport process was carried out in the model structure of moist foam taking into account the diffusion of water vapour in the pore space and the nature of wetting of the pore surface. The influence of material porosity, its moisture and water vapour diffusion within the effective porosity on the effective thermal conductivity of the material was determined by calculation. A comparison between the calculation results and experimental data shows their sufficient compatibility.
Towards stochastic generation of 3D pore network models of building materials
Authors: Claes Steven , Janssen Hans
Published: September 2019

Pore-scale-based prediction of the hygric properties of porous building materials is on the rise as an attractive alternative for the current experimental procedure. Pore-scale simulations do however require a complete pore network model for the building material. With the currently available characterization techniques, such complete pore network model cannot be established, instead typically fragmented direct (pores sizes, shapes, positions, connections, …) or indirect (pore size distribution, pore surface area, …) information is obtained. The aim of this paper is to present stochastic pore network generation, wherein the fragmented pore structure information is used to generate a complete pore network for the building material involved. The novelty of our approach lies in the generation of a PNM by matching the distributions of direct parameters as well as indirect parameters of the input data and the model. Additionally, the position of the pores are no longer bound to a cubic lattice. This workflow will first be tested on a single scale material with a relatively straightforward pore space such as sintered glass. Finally, the hygric properties of the generated network will be compared to the measured properties of the real material as a validation step.
Validation of pore network model for hygric property calculation
Authors: Islahuddin Muhammad , Feng Chi , Claes Steven , Janssen Hans
Published: September 2019

Hygric properties can be estimated directly from pore structure information, represented by a network of regularly shaped pores, extracted from a pore structure image to conserve the real topology. On this network, pore-scale models of moisture behaviour determine the hygric properties of moisture storage and transport. The reliability of this approach is validated with a sintered-glass filter. Despite its more limited heterogeneity and pore size range relative to typical porous building materials, it provides a good basis for validating crucial pore-scale moisture processes. Measured storage data compare well to the estimated ad- and desorption moisture retention curves as well as to the saturated and capillary moisture content. Furthermore, the simulated whole-range moisture permeability curve agrees acceptably with measured data. The variation in modelling the pore space as a pore network model is also analysed by considering two distinct pore network extraction methods. The measured and simulated moisture contents agree well for the whole capillary range. Moreover, the resulting transport properties are generally accurate for the whole moisture content range. On the other hand, the estimated vapour permeabilities show notable variations between the two pore network models.
Internal hydrophobization of cement mortar by addition of siloxanes
Authors: Grabowska Kalina , Koniorczyk Marcin
Published: September 2019

Hydrophobic substances contain in its structure non-polar groups by which have the capability to "repel" water molecules. Because of them the material become hydrophobic, i.e. it is not water-wettable. Hydrophobic additives are used in various areas, including buildings, bridges, ceramic materials, underground constructions and marine constructions. The use of hydrophobic admixtures is one of the ways to protect building elements from adverse water effects, thereby increasing their durability by reducing the water absorption. In our study we investigated the influence of siloxanes on compressive strength and absorbability of cement mortar. The modification of cement mortar microstructure due to addition of organosilicon compounds was analyzed by mercury intrusion porosimetry. Finally we assessed the effectiveness of poly(dimethylsiloxane) and water solution of methyl silicon resin as hydrophobic admixture by measuring the water absorption coefficient.
The influence of climatic conditions on the thermal state of frame partitions insulated with loose fiber materials
Authors: Kosiński Piotr , Skoratko Aneta
Published: September 2019

The paper focus of the influence of the climatic conditions on thermal state and heat transfer of the frame partitions insulated with loose wood wool. While it is well known that building materials change thermal conductivity depending on the operating temperature, the always question is how much it influences on the whole element. The paper presents the laboratory results from the hot box chamber investigation of the frame partition. These results are compared with the simulation results.
A low-cost wireless sensor network for long term monitoring of energy performance and sustainability of buildings
Authors: Telicko Jevgenijs , Jakovics Andris , Drirkis Ivars
Published: September 2019

This manuscript describes the development of a wireless sensor system for long term monitoring of temperature, humidity and heat flux reading within building structural elements, including places that are hard to reach using wired sensors. The system was tested in cold Latvian climate in 3 different buildings. The main objectives during the development phase were the maximization of network operational lifetime, ensurance of work stability and maintenance cost reduction to make the system feasible for wide use in practical applications. An optimal radio module and microcontroller combination yielded sufficient signal range and data transfer stability, as well as efficient control of energy consumption.
Influence of canyon aspect ratio on microclimatic conditions: case of Lodz, Poland
Authors: Bochenek Anna , Klemm Katarzyna
Published: September 2019

This study presents an analysis of the effect of height/width proportions of street canyons on microclimatic conditions in the most urbanized part of Lodz. The empirical research covered public spaces located in the so-called Greater City Zone of Lodz, which were included in the revitalization process. In this case, two street canyons were selected, which are used as pedestrian and driving canyons (the so-called woonerfs). At first, the authors determined the average weather conditions prevailing in the warm period of Typical Meteorological Year in the area of city. On their basis, microclimatic parameters prevailing in the areas of selected street canyons were evaluated with the use of computer simulations. The next stage included the determination of aspect ratio (AR) defining the ratio of building height forming the frontage of canyons to the street width. Finally, the relation between the determined coefficient and selected weather parameters was studied.
Pre and post-fire mechanical properties of structural steel and concrete in steel-concrete composite cellular beams
Authors: Sunar Bükülmez Pınar , Celik Oguz C.
Published: September 2019

This paper presents an experimental investigation into possible variations of mechanical properties of structural steel and concrete in composite cellular beams exposed to ISO 834 fire and cooled down phases. Four full-scale fire tests were performed on protected and unprotected beams under assumed service loads. Tensile stress-strain behavior of steel coupons taken from the beams and compressive strengths of concrete cores taken from the reinforced concrete slabs are studied. Material coupon tests for steel are carried out as per TS EN ISO 6892-1. As for the concrete, compression tests were conducted. Coupon test results reveal that, after fire testing, a maximum reduction ratio of 65% in ultimate strain is obtained for the unprotected beam samples. This indicates that the reductions in the mechanical properties of steel in the protected beams are much less when compared to those of the unprotected beams. It is also found that the maximum increase in post-fire strength/pre-fire strength ratios for concrete is 11% for the unprotected beam, while a 20 % decrease is recorded for water based protected cellular beam. For the protected specimens, the RC slabs were exposed to higher temperatures, and the compressive strength of concrete after testing was lower than that of the unprotected beam slabs.
Pore structure and hygric properties of composite materials for radionuclide protection barriers
Authors: Vejmelková Eva , Koňáková Dana , Pommer Vojtěch , Doleželová Magdaléna , Konvalinka Petr , Černý Robert
Published: September 2019

Many practical applications of concrete require adjustment of its properties. If concrete is used as casing for radioactive waste deposits, its main purpose is to mitigate radionuclide release and the mix design must conform to this requirement. In this article bentonite as a material with great sorption capacity is used as a concrete component. The main issue is to assess durability of designed mixtures. Therefore, the pore structure and hygric properties are investigated. The experimental results show that bentonite utilization in concrete mixtures leads to a significant growth of pore amount in the range of 0.01 to 1 μm and increase of water transport ability.
Mechanical parameters of cementitious materials with superabsorbent polymer admixture
Authors: Fořt Jan , Maděra Jiří , Mildner Martin
Published: September 2019

Concrete despite many performed studies still requires further research on material optimization towards its improvements. On this account the superabsorbent polymers can be viewed as very promising materials with a positive influence on various properties of cementitious materials. The beneficial effect of SAPs on mitigation of autogenous shrinkage or rapid cracks self-healing. However, the absorption capability of SAPs also poses a risk for the formation of dense structure and loss in material durability. The performed study contemplating the influence of two grades of SAP admixtures on mechanical parameters of designed concrete. Obtained results revealed an adverse effect of SAPs on compressive strength. This finding can be assigned to a rapid swelling capability of SAPs, thus a formation of voids in material structure and a significant increase in the total open porosity. Incorporation of about 1.5 wt.% of SAP admixture decreased compressive strength about almost 50% compared to the reference sample.
Thermal and moisture properties of calcium silicate insulation boards
Authors: Tuominen Olli , Tuominen Eero , Vainio Maarit , Ruuska Tiina , Vinha Juha
Published: September 2019

The purpose of this research was to determine thermal and moisture properties of calcium silicate insulation boards available on the Finnish market. Ruggedness testing and test arrangement development were done related to the pressure plate test, which was used to measure desorption isotherms in capillary range. Four calcium silicate and one calcium hydroxide board were examined. The determined material properties are water vapour permeability, water absorption coefficient, capillary saturation water content, moisture sorption isotherm in hygroscopic and capillary range, thermal conductivity and specific heat capacity. Ruggedness tests and development were done to the pressure plate measurement method. Capacitance needles were tested as a method to evaluate the state of equilibrium and different vacuum saturation methods were tested.
Acoustic insulation properties of lime mortars with natural lightweight aggregate
Authors: Vyšvařil Martin , Topolář Libor , Dvořák Richard
Published: September 2019

Porous pozzolan-active aggregate can be used to prepare lightweight lime mortars with high ability to salt accumulation from masonry, enhanced strengths and improved their acoustic and thermal insulation properties, or fire resistance. In this study, the effect of 3 types of natural lightweight aggregate on acoustic insulation properties of air lime mortars, NHL mortars, and cement-lime mortars has been investigated. Measurements of the signal attenuation in the frequency range of 16 Hz to 16 kHz showed the appreciable effect of binder and aggregate used in the mortars. Pumiceous aggregate caused the highest attenuation of the acoustic signal. The natural zeolite seems to be suitable aggregate to NHL and blended lime-cement plasters because it lightens the mortar and positively affects the acoustic attenuation.
Investigation of thermal, moisture, and mechanical properties of wet and dry fired clay materials to assess frost damage risk
Authors: Fukui Kazuma , Iba Chiemi , Taniguchi Madoka , Takahashi Kouichi , Ogura Daisuke
Published: September 2019

Frost action is one of the main causes for deterioration of porous building materials under defined hygrothermal conditions. For an accurate assessment of the frost damage risk under various environmental conditions, thermal, moisture, and mechanical properties should be considered; the hygrothermal properties affect the distribution of temperature and amount of frozen water in the material, whereas the mechanical properties are necessary to predict deformation and damage. Moreover, the dependency of these properties on the moisture content should be understood. Therefore, in this study, thermal, moisture, and mechanical properties of wet and dry fired clay materials were measured. The fired clay materials were sintered at two different temperatures, 1000 °C and 1100 °C (samples T10 and T11, respectively) for comparison. The measured thermal and mechanical properties are considerably different in the wet state compared to the dry state. Freeze–thaw tests were conducted to investigate the relation between the material properties and the frost resistance under a simple experimental condition. As expected, based on the pore structure and obtained mechanical properties, T10 exhibited lower frost resistance than T11 in the freeze–thaw test. Finally, frost damage risk was assessed under various environmental conditions based on the obtained hygrothermal and mechanical properties.
Combined wicking and drying of a NaCl solution in porous building materials
Authors: Pel Leo , Pishkari Raheleh , Adan Olaf
Published: September 2019

Salt weathering is a major cause of destruction of many valuable monuments. The salt damage of historical porous materials is mainly due to the crystallization of soluble salts due to drying. A special situation which occurs often in marine environments, the case where there is a permanent supply of sea water at one side of a material, whereas the other side is exposed to continuous drying in the open air. A well-known example is the historic city of Venice. Evaporation from the air exposed side provides a continuous moisture sink which is compensated by capillary suction, i.e., wicking of the sea water. As a result there will be a continuous flux of NaCl ions towards the surface. As soon as the concentration at the surface reaches the maximum solubility, crystallization will start which can give rise the damage. A simple analytic model was developed to describe this process. In order to verify this model non-destructive measurements were made of the moisture and ion transport during an experiment with limestone. In order to do so, we make use of a specially designed Nuclear Magnetic Resonance setup where we are able to measure quasi-simultaneously the 1H and 23Na content. Hence this method gives us the possibility for real-time monitoring of transport processes of the ions during experiments. It is seen that the concentration rise at the drying surface can be described by a simple analytic model.
Rammed earth hygric properties and evolution
Authors: Indekeu Margaux L. , Feng Chi , Janssen Hans , Woloszyn Monika
Published: September 2019

The hygric characterisation of authentic rammed earth materials is presented. Since these materials expand and liquefy upon contact with moisture, currently available methods are adapted to deal with this material evolution during the tests. In particular a thin permeable wick is introduced in the capillary absorption test. Moreover, confined and unconfined ways of testing are addressed. The results show that both the material origin and the material evolution can significantly impact the hygric properties.
Influence of material parameters on 2D-martensitic transformation based on the phase-field finite-element method
Authors: Chang Li , Jingxiang Gao , Dacheng Zhang , Zhengwei Chen , Xing Han
Published: September 2019

Obtaining an accurate microscopic representation of the martensitic transformation process is key to realizing the best performance of materials and is of great significance in the field of material design. Due to the martensite phase transformation is rapidly, the current experimental is hard to capture all the information in the Martensite phase transformation process. Combining the phase-field method with the finite-element method, a model of martensitic transformation from a metastable state to a steady state is established. The law of a single martensite nucleus during martensitic transformation is accurately described. By changing the key materials that affect martensite transformation and the phase-field parameters, the effects of the parameters on the single martensitic nucleation process are obtained. This study provides an important theoretical basis for effectively revealing the essence of martensite transformation and can determine effective ways to influence martensite transformation, obtain the optimal parameters and improve the mechanical properties of such materials.
Thermodynamics and transient behavior of the inclusion in Si deoxidized stainless steel for high-grade plate
Authors: Wang Wanlin , Xue Liwen , Zhang Tongsheng , Zhou Lejun , Huang Daoyuan , Tian Weiguang , Xu Jialin
Published: September 2019

The experiments were carried out to determine the transient behavior of the inclusion in Si-deoxidized stainless steel for high-grade plate. The samples were taken from three heats of the steel during the whole production process from the AOD to the mold, which were subsequently examined by an automatic scanning electron microscope with field energy dispersive spectrometer (FE-SEM&EDS). It can be summarized that appropriate calcium treatment intensity could modify inclusions into liquid ones. Excessive calcium treatment above ([Ca] = 25 ppm) will increase the melting point of the inclusions, which cannot keep in the liquid region at the solidification temperature. Therefore, the calcium addition in Si-deoxidized stainless steels should be controlled to a relatively lower value ([Ca] = 10 ppm). In addition, the content of aluminum in steel also has an important influence on the control of inclusion. When the content of aluminum ([Al] = 0.012%) is too high, the inclusions in steel are difficult to be controlled within the liquid phase. The chemical evolution of the inclusions in steel at high temperature and during solidification process were comprehensively calculated, considering all types of inclusions such as calcium oxide, aluminum oxide, silicon oxide, calcium aluminate, calcium silicate, mullite, and liquid inclusion. The thermodynamic calculations are in good agreement with experimental results, which can predict the formation of the inclusions in Si-deoxidized stainless steels.
Hot forming with a nonuniform temperature field using die partition cooling
Authors: Liu Cai-yi , Peng Yan , Kong Ling , Hao Lu-han , Zhai Ren
Published: September 2019

High strength steel hot forming technology plays an important role in achieving lightweight vehicles, improving the safety of vehicles. The tensile strength of the blank formed by traditional hot forming process is as high as 1500–2000 MPa, the strength of the formed blank is high, but the elongation is usually low and comprehensive mechanical property is not high. In this article, the process control of material gradient properties hot forming technology is summarized through the analysis of strengthening mechanism of gradient distribution hot forming technology. Based on the traditional hot forming technology, a new hot forming technology based on partition cooling to achieve material property gradient distribution is proposed. By changing the cooling rate of blank in different zones is different, and the gradient distribution of material properties is finally obtained. The DEFORM is used to analyze the hot forming process of the blank under the nonuniform temperature field of the partition cooling. A set of partition cooling hot forming die was designed independently to verify the experimental results. The evolution mechanism of microstructure and its effect on material properties during hot forming under nonuniform temperature field with partition cooling were revealed.
Abdominelle Notfallsonografie in der Intensiv- und Akutmedizin
Authors: Schreiber Michael , Greim Clemens-Alexander
Published: September 2019

Die sonografischen Untersuchungstechniken unterstützen die Point-of-Care-Diagnostik (POC-Diagnostik) bei akutmedizinischen Fragestellungen. Für den Intensiv- und Notfallmediziner gilt: Kenntnisse und Fertigkeiten einer fokussierten Sonografie sind unabdingbar. Dieser Artikel beleuchtet die Optionen der abdominellen Notfallsonografie und gibt praktische Hilfestellung.
Auf Alltagsfragen sicher reagieren – Rechtliche Kompetenzen in der Ergotherapie
Authors: Feldhaus Lena
Published: September 2019

In ihrer täglichen Arbeit begegnen Ergotherapeuten häufiger Rechtsfragen als zunächst vermutet. Zum Beispiel, wenn sie Klienten beim Beantragen von Sozialleistungen beraten oder wenn es um ihre eigenen Rechte und Pflichten geht. An einem Fallbeispiel beschreibt Lena Feldhaus, welche juristischen Fragen in der Therapie auftauchen können.
Die Rechtsfrage: Wann ist meine Tätigkeit rentenver-sicherungspflichtig?
Authors: Bossow Karsten
Published: September 2019

„Ich möchte mich selbstständig machen und in meiner Praxis auch Präventions- und Yogakurse anbieten. Muss ich das bei der Rentenversicherung anmelden?“

Therapeutin aus Bayern
Das tut gut – Mini-AktivitätenAnsatz
Authors: Aegler Barbara , Heigl Franziska , Zischek Fay
Published: September 2019

Menschen mit einer Verletzung, Erkrankung oder chronischen Schmerzen sind häufig erschöpft und haben kaum Energie, um sich auf Übungen oder Verhaltensänderungen einzulassen. Daher entwickelten Ergotherapeutinnen aus der Schweiz auf der Grundlage von Resilienz den Mini-AktivitätenAnsatz. Die kurzen Aktivitäten geben mehr Energie, als sie kosten, und tun einfach gut.
Komplexe Aktivitäten von Senioren einschätzen – IADL-Skala
Authors: Zemke Jens
Published: September 2019

Mit voranschreitendem Alter sind die meisten Menschen von sozialen, körperlichen und psychischen Aktivitätseinschränkungen betroffen. Autonomieverlust und fehlende Selbsthilfefähigkeit bleiben häufig unentdeckt und somit auch lange unbehandelt. Die IADL-Skala betrachtet die instrumentellen Aktivitäten des täglichen Lebens und erlaubt Aussagen zum Unterstützungsbedarf.
Oral Contraceptive Use does not Negatively Affect Body Composition and Strength Adaptations in Trained Women
Authors: Romance Ramón , Vargas Salvador , Espinar Sergio , Petro Jorge L. , Bonilla Diego A. , Schöenfeld Brad J. , Kreider Richard B. , Benítez-Porres Javier
Published: September 2019

The purpose was to analyze the influence of oral contraceptive use on body composition and strength levels in trained women. Twenty-three resistance-trained women participated in this study (age=27.4±3.4 years; fat mass=28.0±5.0%; BMI=22.9±2.7 kg∙m-2). Subjects performed an 8-week non-linear resistance-training program. Participants were assigned to either a group that consumed oral contraceptives (n=12, OC) or to a group that did not consume (n=11, NOC). Changes in body composition were measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. Strength performance was assessed via the one maximum repetition (1RM) test in the squat and bench press, and muscular power was evaluated using the countermovement jump (CMJ) test. Fat free mass increased significantly in OC but no changes were seen in NOC. There were no changes in fat mass for either OC or NOC. Significant changes were found in bench press 1RM for both OC and NOC; similarly, increases in squat 1RM were reported in OC and NOC. Alternatively, no significant changes were found in CMJ in both OC and NOC. No significant between-group differences were detected in any of the studied variables. The use of oral contraceptives during resistance training did not negatively affect body composition or strength levels in trained women.
Non-HPV Perianal and Anorectal Sexually Transmitted Viral Infections
Authors: Murphy Margarita , Chedister Gabriel Ryan , George Virgilio
Published: September 2019

This article reviews the epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of common viral infections of the perianal skin and anorectum including herpes simplex virus, human immune deficiency virus, and molluscum contagiosum. Human papilloma virus infection is reviewed in the subsequent article.
Maternal Smoking during Pregnancy and the Risk for Childhood Infectious Diseases in the Offspring: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Dan Nadav , Sheiner Eyal , Wainstock Tamar , Marks Kyla , Kessous Roy
Published: September 2019

Objective Infectious diseases account for up to 43% of childhood hospitalizations. Given the magnitude of infection-related hospitalizations, we aimed to evaluate the effect of maternal smoking during pregnancy on the risk for long-term childhood infectious morbidity.

Study Design This is a population-based cohort analysis comparing the long-term risk for infectious diseases, in children born to mothers who smoked during pregnancy versus those who did not. Infectious diseases were predefined based on International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision codes. Deliveries occurred between the years 1991 and 2014.

Results A total of 246,854 newborns met the inclusion criteria; 2,986 (1.2%) were born to mothers who smoked during pregnancy. Offspring of smokers had significantly higher risk for several infectious diseases during childhood (upper respiratory tract, otitis, viral infections, and bronchitis) as well as increased risk for total infection-related hospitalizations (odds ratio = 1.5, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.3–1.7; p = 0.001). Cumulative incidence of infection-related hospitalizations was significantly higher in offspring of smokers (log-rank test, p = 0.001). Controlling for maternal age, diabetes, hypertensive disorders, and gestational age at index delivery, smoking remained an independent risk factor for infectious diseases during childhood (adjusted hazard ratio = 1.5, 95% CI: 1.3–1.6; p = 0.001).

Conclusion Intrauterine exposure to maternal smoking may create an environment leading to an increased future risk for long-term pediatric infectious morbidity of the offspring.
Impact of Marijuana Legalization on Prevalence of Maternal Marijuana Use and Perinatal Outcomes
Authors: Gnofam Mayi , Allshouse Amanda A. , Stickrath Elaine H. , Metz Torri D.
Published: September 2019

Objective We aimed to assess whether marijuana legalization was associated with a difference in prevalence of prenatal use or an increase in incidence of adverse perinatal outcomes.

Study Design The present study is a retrospective cohort of September and October deliveries in the years 2012 through 2015 at a tertiary center in Colorado. Primary outcome of the study was use of marijuana, defined by self-report or biodetection. Secondary outcomes of the study included growth restriction, spontaneous preterm birth, stillbirth, preeclampsia, and neonatal or maternal death. Marijuana use prevalence was compared by year, and secondary outcomes between two periods, before and after the opening of the first recreational dispensary.

Results A total of 2,392 pregnant women were included (1,165 before legalization and 1,227 after). More women used marijuana over the period of legalization (trend p = 0.01). Odds of marijuana use were higher after legalization versus before (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.8, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.2–2.6). Incidence of growth restriction was higher after legalization (2.9 vs. 5.1%, p = 0.0084). This difference persisted after adjustment for ethnicity and other drugs in multivariable modeling (aOR = 1.9, 95%CI: 1.2–3.0).

Conclusion The prevalence of prenatal marijuana use increased over the time of legalization. Further investigation into the population impact of legalization on obstetrical outcomes is warranted given the observed increase in growth restriction.
Infectious Complications of Expanded Endoscopic Transsphenoidal Surgery: A Retrospective Cohort Analysis of 100 Cases
Authors: Lee Seung J. , Cohen Justin , Chan Julie , Walgama Evan , Wu Arthur , Mamelak Adam N.
Published: September 2019

Objective To identify perioperative factors that may predict postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak and meningitis following expanded endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery (EETS).

Study Design This is a retrospective study. This study was set at the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles. A total of 78 patients who underwent EETS between January 2007 and November 2018 were participated. The main outcome measures were CSF leak and meningitis.

Results A total of 78 patients underwent a total of 100 EETS procedures; 17.9 and 10.3% of patients developed postoperative CSF leaks and meningitis, respectively. Out of eight, three patients with meningitis did not develop an observable CSF leak. The risk of developing meningitis in patients with a CSF leak was significantly higher than those without a leak, with an odds ratio (OR) of 11.48 (95% confidence interval, 2.33–56.47; p = 0.004). Pituicytomas were significantly associated with meningitis compared with other pathologies. No other patient-specific factors were identified as risks for leak or meningitis, including method of skull base repair, sex, tumor volume, or body mass index, although there was a strong trend toward reduced CSF leak rates in patient with nasoseptal flaps used for skull base repair, compared with those without (9.5 vs. 25%). CSF protein was consistently elevated on the first CSF values obtained when meningitis was suspected.

Conclusion CSF leak and meningitis are common complications of expanded endonasal surgery No statistically significant risk factors for developing a postoperative leak other than the pathology of pituicytoma were identified, including method of skull base repair, although the use of a vascularized nasoseptal flap did trend toward a reduced CSF leak rate. CSF protein is the most sensitive marker for the presumptive diagnosis and timely treatment of meningitis.
Krankenhausfinanzierung: Kapitalbeschaffung durch den Gang an die Börse?
Authors: Terkatz Stefan
Published: September 2019

Der stationäre Gesundheitssektor steht vor den größten Herausforderungen seit vielen Jahrzehnten: Überkapazitäten müssen abgebaut werden; der Instandhaltungsstau, die anstehende Digitalisierung und die zwingende Restrukturierung werden viel Kapital benötigen. Die Banken werden in der Kreditvergabe restriktiver. Ein Börsengang ermöglicht die Kapitalbeschaffung und stärkt die Eigenkapitalbasis.
On the improved design of the buoy geometry on a two-body wave energy converter model
Authors: Nazari Berenjkoob Mahdi , Ghiasi Mahmoud , Guedes Soares C.
Published: September 2019

The motion of some geometries of a buoy in a two-body wave energy converter (WEC) system is studied under regular wave excitations. The buoy is coupled to a heave damping plate where the coupling system models a simplified power takeoff (PTO) system. A frequency-domain analysis is conducted on the two-body model to predict the wave-induced motion behavior of the bodies considering the mutual effects of two bodies and the PTO system. The designed buoys are axisymmetric and have an identical water-plane area and submerged volume. The model was analyzed in identical conditions for different buoys so that the effect of the buoy shape on its dynamic properties and the hydrodynamic coefficients, as well as the absorption efficiency of the two-body WEC model, could be evaluated. The impact of the buoy shape and its hydrodynamic coefficients on the optimal and suboptimal design of the PTO system is studied. The results indicate that a suitable geometry for the buoy can have beneficial effects on the improved efficiency of the two-body WEC model, increasing the relative displacement between the two bodies and, also, allowing an optimal design of the PTO system. Furthermore, the buoy shape can reduce the difference between the damping coefficients of the PTO system and the buoy in order to create the resonance condition in the WEC system.
The long wave fluid flows on inclined porous media with nonlinear Forchheimer’s law
Authors: Kandel Hom N. , Liang Dong
Published: September 2019

The surface fluid flows coupled with porous media flows in substrates occur in many circumstances in industry and natural settings. In this paper, we investigate the long wave solutions for the surface flows on inclined porous media. The important feature is that such flows are derived by the Navier-Stokes equations governing the clear flows in the surface fluids and the nonlinear Forchheimer’s equations for the porous media flows in substrates. The problem is reduced to a corresponding Orr-Sommerfeld problem by linearizing the infinitesimal perturbations in the system of coupled equations for analyzing long wave solutions of surface flows. Numerical analysis is taken by using Chebyshev collocation numerical method to the eigenvalue problems of the Orr-Sommerfeld systems for analyzing critical condition and stable region of long wave solutions. We compare the result with that for very small drag constant by Darcy’s law and study numerically the effects of parameters including various drag constants on the long wave solutions with Forchheimer’s law.
V-shaped dislocations in a GaN epitaxial layer on GaN substrate
Authors: Tanaka Atsushi , Nagamatsu Kentaro , Usami Shigeyoshi , Kushimoto Maki , Deki Manato , Nitta Shugo , Honda Yoshio , Bockowski Michal , Amano Hiroshi
Published: September 2019

In this study, V-shaped dislocations in a GaN epitaxial layer on a free-standing GaN substrate were observed. Our investigation further revealed that the V-shaped dislocations were newly generated at the interface in the epilayer rather than propagated from the GaN substrate. V-shaped dislocations consist of two straight parts. The straight parts of the V-shaped dislocations were separated from each other in the m-direction and tilted toward the step-flow direction of the GaN epitaxial layer. The V-shaped dislocations are continuous single dislocations having a Burgers vector component of 1a and an intrinsic stacking fault between their straight parts.
Performance and mechanism analysis of nanosecond pulsed surface dielectric barrier discharge based plasma deicer
Authors: Wei Biao , Wu Yun , Liang Hua , Chen Jie , Zhao Guangyin , Tian Miao , Xu Haojun
Published: September 2019

Ice accretion on aircraft surfaces, especially on wings, may do harm to the aerodynamic performance and safety of an aircraft. In this work, de-icing experiments on an NACA0012 airfoil model were conducted in an icing wind tunnel using nanosecond pulsed surface dielectric barrier discharge (nSDBD) actuator under typical glaze icing conditions. The spatial-temporal distribution of the temperature and the dynamic process of de-icing on the surface of the airfoil were obtained and analyzed. Accreted ice with an average thickness of 3 mm can be removed within 4 s by nSDBD, and then the ice never appeared again on the plasma-protected zone. In the whole de-icing process, the ice on the plasma-protected zone was “cut” and the adhesion force between the ice layer and airfoil surface was reduced by the heat generated by the plasma actuator. The “cut” ice layer was blown downstream by aerodynamic force of the incoming flow. It can be concluded that both the thermal effects of the nSDBD actuator and the aerodynamic force of the incoming flow contribute to the de-icing performance.
Multi-objective optimization of thermoelectric cooler using genetic algorithms
Authors: Lu Tianbo , Zhang Xiang , Zhang Jianxin , Ning Pingfan , Li Yuqiang , Niu Pingjuan
Published: September 2019

The thermoelectric cooler (TEC) is a kind of cooling equipment which used to dissipate heat from the devices by Peltier effect. The cooling capacity (Qc) and coefficient of performance (COP) are both significant performance parameters of a thermoelectric cooler. In this article, three-dimensional numerical simulations are carried out by finite element analysis based on the temperature-dependent materials properties. The experimental and geometrical parameters have important effects on the TEC performance which have been analysed, such as electrical current, geometric configuration of thermoelectric leg, Thomson effect, thermal contact resistances and electrical contact resistances. The results show when the Thomson effect is ignored, the maximum difference in the cooling capacity is 7.638 W while the maximum difference in the COP is 0.09. When contact effect is not considered, the maximum difference in the cooling capacity is 22.06 W while the maximum difference in the COP is 0.75. Furthermore, the cooling capacity and COP have also been simultaneously optimized according to the multi-objective genetic algorithm. The best optimal value is obtained making use of TOPSIS (technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution) method from Pareto frontier. Investigated on these optimal design parameters which were anticipated to provide real guidance in industry.
Non-invasive evaluation of stress hormone responses in a captive population of sugar gliders (Petaurus breviceps)
Authors: Scheun Juan , Geiser Fritz , Ganswindt Andre , Nowack Julia
Published: September 2019

Faecal hormone monitoring offers a robust tool to non-invasively determine the physiological stress experienced by an individual when faced with natural or human-driven stressors. Although already quantified for several species, the method needs to be validated for each new species to ensure reliable quantification of the respective glucocorticoids. Here we investigated whether measurement of faecal glucocorticoid metabolite (fGCM) provides a feasible and non-invasive way to assess the physiological state of sugar gliders (Petaurus breviceps), an arboreal marsupial native to Australia, by using both a biological and physiological validation. Our analysis confirmed that the cortisol enzyme immunoassay (EIA) was the most appropriate assay for monitoring fGCM concentrations in sugar gliders. Comparing the fGCM response to the physiological and the biological validation, we found that while the administration of ACTH led to a significant increase in fGCM concentration in all individuals, only six of eight individuals showed a considerable fGCM response following the biological validation. Our study identified the most appropriate immunoassay for monitoring fGCM concentrations as an indicator of physiological stress in sugar gliders, but also supports recent suggestions that, if possible, both biological and physiological stressors should be used when testing the suitability of an EIA for a species.
Diet of the crest-tailed mulgara (Dasycercus cristicauda) in the Strzelecki Desert
Authors: Contos Peter , Letnic Mike
Published: September 2019

A population of the crest-tailed mulgara (Dasycercus cristicauda) was recently located in the southern Strzelecki Desert in 2015. We analysed the diet of this population from scats (n=87) collected over two sampling periods in 2016. Beetles were the most favoured food item, followed by spiders, ants and the small mammal Notomys fuscus. Within the beetles, ground beetles (Carabidae) and darkling beetles (Tenebrionidae) were the most frequently consumed. Dasycercus cristicauda appeared to exhibit a seasonal shift in prey consumption, moving from vertebrates in July 2016 to invertebrates in November 2016, while also consuming a wide and varied range of prey, even including rabbits in their diet in July 2016. The flexible diet observed in Dasycercus cristicauda may be a response to the fluctuating availability of food found in desert environments.
The boy can dance: ritual courtship of the opal cling goby
Authors: Ebner Brendan C. , Kemp Darrell J.
Published: September 2019

Field-based video recording of courtship between a male and female Stiphodon semoni (Family Gobiidae), afforded the opportunity to discern specific behaviours not reported of sicydiine gobies previously, including tail-wagging and kiss-like behaviour by the male. Furthermore, a subset of behaviours that resemble those from published reports of other sicydiines in courtship and a subset of behaviours that are analogous to those exhibited by guppies (Poecilia reticulata, Family Poeciliidae) are reported and discussed briefly and used to contend that sicydiines are ripe for detailed study of sexual signalling behaviour in fishes.