bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Microalbuminuria with Recent Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Jha Rohan , Shrestha Tirtha Man , Aacharya Ramesh
Published: December 2019

Introduction:  Microalbuminuria is considered as an indicator of increased mortality in diabetes mellitus, hypertension and myocardial infarction and is also attributed to increased cerebrovascular risk. The aim of this study was to evaluate microalbuminuria in patients of recent ischemic stroke and see if microalbuminuria is significantly associated with recent ischemic stroke.

Methods: From August 2015 to November 2015, all patients of first episode ischemic stroke presenting to Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital emergency within 24 hours of onset of stroke suggestive symptoms were enrolled in this study. Non contrast CT scan head, random blood glucose, and urine spot microalbumin test was done in each case.

Results: Microalbuminuria was predominantly present in a total of 27 (79.4%) subjects, while absent in 7 (20.6%). Microalbuminuria was present in 77.0% of the non hypertensive cases and 85.71% of hypertensive cases. Microalbuminuria was present amongst 74.1% of non diabetics and in all the diabetics. Microalbuminuria was present in 78.6% of smokers and in 80% of non smokers. Microalbuminuria was present in 91.67% of cases with lacunar stroke and in 72.7% cases with territorial infarction.

Conclusions: There was no statistically significant association between microalbuminuria and ischemic stroke.
Clinical Features and Visual outcome in Acute and Recurrent Case of Optic Neuritis.
Authors: Paudel Jyoti Bastola , Sharma Ananda Kumar , Sitaula Sanjeeta , Thapa Madhu
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Optic neuritis is an inflammation of the optic nerve that usually affects young females. In Western countries, natural history and treatment of optic neuritis(ON) has been studied extensively. However aetiology, natural history, clinical features of ON and their relation to multiple sclerosis in Asian population needs to be defined yet.

Methods: 30 patients who were diagnosed as optic neuritis were included between June 2013 to December 2014 at BP Koirala Lions Centre for Ophthalmic Studies (BPKLCOS). A detailed history was obtained followed by examination of anterior and posterior segment. Assessment of visual acuity, color vision, contrast sensitivity, visual evoked potential (VEP),visual field and MRI of orbit and brain was done in all cases. All patients were treated with intravenous Methylprednisolone 500mg twice daily for 3 days followed by oral steroid for 11 days which was tapered in the next 4 days.The patients were reassessed at 2 weeks, 1 month and 3months.

Results: Commonest presenting symptom was diminution of vision(65%). MRI showed multiple paraventricular oval plaques definite of multiple sclerosis in one patient and one was diagnosed as probable MS who had a single periventricular plaque. Visual evoked potential (VEP) showed increase in the mean P100 latency at 60’ and reduction in amplitude in eyes affected with optic neuritis compared to normal eyes. At 3 months follow up, 70% had good visual recovery (>6/18). The cause of non-improvement in vision was disc pallor. Optic disc pallor was detected in 37.5% of the eyes during follow up.

Conclusions: Good visual recovery was observed in most eyes with acute optic neuritis. Multiple sclerosis was seen in 1 patient who had recurrent optic neuritis.
Wild Honey Poisoning: A Case Report
Authors: Shilpakar Olita , Rajbhandari Bibek , Karki Bipin
Published: December 2019

Wild honey is consumed in many parts of the world as an alternative source of medicine with the belief of reducing cardiovascular, gastrointestinal and many other ailments. However, intoxication secondary to consumption of wild honey produced from the nectar of a few species rhododendrons has been encountered due to a toxin known as grayanotoxin. It is a sodium channel toxin causing symptoms like bradycardia, arrhythmias, hypotension, sweating, dizziness and altered sensorium. We report a case of a 58 year old man who presented to the emergency room following ingestion of wild honey with bradycardia, hypotension and altered mental status.

Keywords: bradycardia; grayanotoxin; hypotension; wild honey poisoning.
Prevalence of GeneXpert Positive in Sputum Negative with Clinico-radiologically Case Suggestive of Pulmonary Tuberculosis.
Authors: Rajbhandari Bibek , Chaudhary Navin Kumar
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Tuberculosis remains of public health concern, particularly in highly endemic regions.1 It accounts globally for 3 million deaths annually. Pulmonary tuberculosis is primarily diagnosed by identification of Mycobacterium tuberculosis using sputum smear microscopy.2 Clinicians often depend on alternative diagnostic algorithms based on patient symptoms and chest X-ray findings, which have low sensitivity which may lead to either over or under diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis. The GeneXpert assay has been shown to have an accuracy comparable to that of culture.3 The sensitivity of a single GeneXpert result in smear-negative, culture-positive cases is 72.5%; the sensitivity increases with repeated testing.4 Xpert has been found to be a cost-effective method for smear-negative TB diagnosis in comparison to traditional methods in resource-limited settings. The aim of the study was to find the prevalence of Genexpert Positive in Sputum negative cases.

Methods: This descriptive cross sectional study was done in Bir Hospital, Mahabouddha, Kathmandu for 1 year after taking ethical clearance. Data was collected and entry was done with point estimate at 95%. Sample size was calculated using the standard formula. Convenience Sampling technique was used, data analysis was done with SPSS Microsoft Excel Sheet.

Results: Prevalence of Genexpert Positive in Sputum negative cases was part to be 27.27%.

Conclusions: Present study showed GeneXpert could be used as a diagnostic tool for the diagnosis of tuberculosis by correlating the clinicoradiological features to this infectious disease. With judicious case detection and implementing appropriate measures, TB incidence, prevalence and morbidity can be minimized to a greater extent.

Keywords: acid fast bacilli; tuberculosis; X-ray.
Imaging Anatomy of Normal Knee Joint using 3.0 T MRI- A pictorial review
Authors: Khanal Umesh P
Published: December 2019

With the use of high resolution imaging of knee on 3.0 T MRI, the ligamentous and cartilaginous structures can be elucidated in better details, and diagnosis that had been ambiguous in ye past can be made more con
Innovative Draping Method to Mitigate Aerosolization During Coronavirus Pandemic
Authors: Dongol Kripa , Neupane Yogesh , Shakya Dipesh
Published: December 2019

Otolaryngologists are at high risk of acquiring coronavirus because most of the procedures are aerosol generating and we have to deal with upper airways which contain high viral load. The objective of this study is to elaborate the draping technique which diminishes aerosol in the operating room. Use of a framework and a drape with customized hand insertion ports help to contain the aerosol generated during the operative procedure. The draping technique acts as an additional form of protection from aerosol along with an increase in self-confidence to the healthcare workers during this pandemic.
Fitz-Hugh Curtis Syndrome: an Incidental Finding During Infertility Workup
Authors: Manandhar Rojina , Singh Asha , Shrestha Abhimanyu , Shrestha Sebak
Published: December 2019

Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome (FCHS), also known as acute perihepatitis, is a rare disorder characterised by inflammation of the peritoneum and the tissues surrounding the liver. This syndrome can arise as a potential complication from a pelvic inflammatory disease caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae or Chlamydia trachomatis. This is a case of 26 years’ healthy asymptomatic woman with primary infertility where this syndrome was diagnosed incidentally during laproscopy.
Post Caesarian Pelvic Abscess, A Rare Entity not to Miss
Authors: Chudal Deepa , Shrestha Sebak , Manandhar Rojina , Singh Sabita , Shrestha Abhimanyu , Singh Asha
Published: December 2019

Post caesarean pelvic abscess is a rare complication   which may present without typical features of endometritis. It should remain as one of the differential diagnoses in any patient with refractory puerperal fever.  Despite the use of antibiotic   prophylaxis, it still can occur causing significant maternal morbidity requiring a complicated course of management with the need of an intensive care unit, drainage of pus under ultrasound guidance or sometimes may need surgical re-exploration or even hysterectomy. We report a case of pelvic abscess in a young   lady following caesarean section   who presented   with puerperal pyrexia. She did not respond to broad spectrum antibiotic treatment and underwent ultrasound-guided transabdominal drainage of the pelvic abscess following which she had rapid clinical improvement and good recovery.
Jogos De Linguagem E Significação Em Aulas De Física No Ensino Médio: O Papel Da Linguagem Matemática
Authors: Savietto Natan , César da Silva Henrique
Published: December 2019

A Física trabalha com uma linguagem cuja significação passa pela matemática, mas vai além dela. Há várias visões dessa relação entre Física e Matemática, sendo esta pensada como estrutura, como ferramenta, como fundamento, ou como linguagem da/para a Física. Neste artigo adotamos como referência a filosofia da linguagem de Wittgenstein. Destacamos a noção de jogos de linguagem, com suas regras próprias e semelhanças de família, que colaboram para o entendimento da significação como dependente do uso que se faz da linguagem, nos diferentes contextos ou formas de vida, como, no nosso caso, o contexto escolar de ensino de Física. Tomando como base essa concepção da matemática como linguagem na relação com a Física, buscamos identificar como e que jogos de linguagem, envolveram tanto a linguagem verbal e quanto a matemática em aulas de Física no Ensino Médio. Evidenciamos diferentes jogos de linguagem, suas regras e semelhanças de família. As aulas se caracterizaram pela explicitação pelo professor de elementos das regras de significação envolvidas e pelo envolvimento dos estudantes nestas regras.
Alfabetização Matemática na Perspectiva da Linguagem
Authors: Santos Silva Carlos Evaldo dos
Published: December 2019

Neste trabalho, discutimos o ensino da matemática na alfabetização a partir de uma perspectiva linguística. A proposição dessa discussão se justifica por entendermos que a linguagem desempenha um papel fundamental na constituição dos conceitos matemáticos, possibilitando, assim, tornar o ensino dessa disciplina significativo. Para isso, recorremos ao conceito de jogos de linguagem, de Ludwig Wittgenstein, como condição de sentido para os enunciados linguísticos, tanto da linguagem natural quanto da linguagem matemática, fixando o significado dentro da própria linguagem sem necessidade de recorrer a entidades externas.
Jogos de linguagem na Educação Matemática Inclusiva: um olhar a partir das linguagens dos surdos
Authors: Barroso Moreira Ivanete Maria , Lima da Costa Walber Christiano
Published: December 2019

O presente artigo tem como objetivo apresentar reflexões acerca dos jogos de linguagem presentes no cenário educacional matemático, envolvendo os alunos surdos. A partir de um estudo de caso, constatamos que há a existência de jogos de linguagem variados entre os componentes da sala de aula inclusiva e que a presença de intérpretes formados nas áreas específicas de conhecimento garante pelo menos um reconhecimento linguístico e uma relação que pode ser considerada mais justa de ensino e aprendizado para as comunidades surdas. Concluímos, assim, que a linguagem matemática em sala de aula é fruto do encontro entre manifestações de várias naturezas, possui e se constitui por aproximações e semelhanças com outras formas de comunicação, como a língua portuguesa, a língua de sinais, a linguagem do matemático profissional, a linguagem das representações pictóricas, entre outras.
Prevalence of Internet Addiction among Higher Secondary Level Students in Kathmandu District
Authors: Karmacharya Isha , Bhujel Kshitiz , Kumar Yadav Dipendra , Subedi Kumar
Published: December 2019

Internet addiction is defined as an impulse control disorder, which is very similar to pathological gambling. It is typically characterized by psychomotor agitation, anxiety, craving depression, hostility, substance experience, preoccupation, loss of control, impairment of function, reduced decision-making ability, and constant online surfing despite negative effects on social and psychological welfare. An institutional based cross-sectional study with a sample comprising of 422 college students (15 – 19 age group) across Kathmandu District was conducted from November 9th – 23rd, 2014. Students were assessed with a structured questionnaire and Internet Addiction Test (IAT) scale, which was anonymously selfadministered. The collected data was analyzed with the help of SPSS version 20 and interpreted. This survey depicts internet penetration rate was 97.3%. The possible addicts/internet addict students were found to spent average of 34 hours per week, compared to the 11 hours of average users. Male students were more possible addicts/internet addicts than female students. This survey found statistically significant difference between average users and possible addicts/internet addicts based on their Family Characteristics which consisted of variables such as economic status (p = 0.001), within family relationship (p = 0.009), ownership of computer/laptop at home (p < 0.001) and loneliness level at home (p < 0.001). Based on the interpersonal relationship at college, there was no significant difference between average users and possible/ internet addicts except for the relationship with classmates (p = 0.024). Overall, the prevalence of internet addiction among higher secondary level students according to this survey was found to be 2.57. As a result of IAT scale, the prevalence of internet addiction among higher secondary level students of Kathmandu District according to this survey was found to be 2.57.

Key words: Adolescent, Internet addiction, Internet Addiction Test, Internet Penetration Rate, Nepal, Prevalence
Application of Social Cognitive Theory in Obesity Prevention: A Rapid Review
Authors: Adhikari Chiranjivi , Puri Avash , Thapa Dipty , Thapa Rebishna , Magar Sonam , GC Sunil
Published: December 2019

Obesity, as a result of including the chronic positive energy balance, is associated with many chronic diseases. Prevalence of obesity is increasing worldwide, including in selected developing countries, from previous very low status. Association or causality of one or more constructs of social cognitive theory to prevent and control obesity is paramount for program interventions. We searched titles and abstracts using End Note Software and then approached original articles in databases of PubMed, Google Scholar and Health Inter-Network Access to Research Initiative (HINARI) in English language published between Jan 1, 2000 and Jan 10, 2015. The articles included only when one or more of the constructs of social cognitive theory viz. reciprocal determinism, behavioral capability, observational learning, reinforcements, expectations and self-efficacy were examined quantitatively with obesity or overweight. The data from the articles were then summarized and interpreted. Out of 90 accessed and reviewed full-text articles, 22 included in the review, mostly of which studies were conducted in developing countries. The review results showed that intervening the constructs of social cognitive theory was found effective in preventing obesities including childhood obesities. In studies where media campaign was added with social cognitive theory, logistic regression results demonstrated that behavior change was greater among women. Self-efficacy and social support are the important constructs of social cognitive/learning theory to be effective and associated in obesity prevention, others remaining modest. It is suggested that the constructs are integrated with media campaign and ecological components when intervened.

Key words: Social, cognitive, obesity, overweight, behaviour, self-efficacy, physical.
Evaluation of Nitrate Reductase Assay For Rapid Detection of Drug Resistant Tuberculosis
Authors: Kumar Sah Ranjit , Raj Bhatta Dwij , Raj Ghimire Gokarna , Prasad Kandel Bhuwaneswor , Raj Tiwari Bishnu , Bahadur Sherchand Jeevan
Published: December 2019

Emergence of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) urgently demands for simple, rapid and inexpensive methods of its detection for the effective treatment of drug resistant tuberculosis, particularly in low-income countries. This prospective study was carried out at National Tuberculosis Reference Laboratory and South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS Centre, Thimi, Bhaktapur, Nepal, from November 2009 to May 2010 to evaluate nitrate reductase assay (NRA) efficacy for rapid determination of streptomycin, isoniazid, rifampicin and ethambutol susceptibility of Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains. A total of 113 clinical isolates of M. tuberculosis were tested for four first line antitubercular drugs by nitrate reductase assay and were compared with standard proportion method. Results were available in 7-14 days by NRA as compared to proportion method which generally takes 4-6 weeks. The sensitivity and specificity of NRA were 98.1% and 100% for isoniazid, 95.1% and 98.6% for rifampicin, 91.4% and 94.9% for streptomycin, and 78.6% and 97.9% for ethambutol respectively. Agreement between NRA and proportion method were 99.1%, 97.3%, 93.8%, 95.6% for isoniazid, rifampicin, streptomycin and ethambutol, respectively. NRA is easier, inexpensive and reliable method for susceptibility testing of Mycobacterum tuberculosis for isoniazid and rifampicin, the two most important drugs for the treatment of tuberculosis. The reduction in susceptibility testing time, and higher sensitivity and specificity of NRA method is of fundamental importance in detecting MDR-TB.

Key words: Drug susceptibility, MDR-TB, NRA, proportion method
Study of Intestinal Parasitosis among School Going Children in Pokhara, Nepal
Authors: Singh Khadka Kamal , Prasad Kaphle Hari , Gurung Krishna , Shah Yogendra , Sigdel Manoj
Published: December 2019

The study was carried out in order to estimate the prevalence of intestinal parasitosis in school-going children in schools located in Pokhara, Nepal from November 2011 to January 2012. A total number of 100 stool samples were collected from children of ages 3 to 15 years. A questionnaire including the factors predisposing to parasitosis was filled up and parasitic examination was carried out by direct wet mount examination and concentration method using standard formal ether concentration technique. The prevalence rate was found to be 15%. Prevalence of parasitic infection was higher in girls (16%) than in boys (14%) and age group 8-12 years were found to be more suffering (17.3%) than other age groups. The occurrence of parasitic infection in symptomatic children was found to be 40% and 10% in asymptomatic children. The symptoms were found statistically significant with infestation of parasites. Intestinal infection was highest in Dalit students (20%) compared to other caste students. Prevalence of parasitic infection in other caste was 15% in Brahman, 9.5% in Newar and 9% in Chhetri. Among 15 positive cases 5 types of parasites were detected. The results showed Giardia lamblia to be the most common parasite. Occurrence of other intestinal parasites was Entamoeba histolytica (26.6%), Ascaris lumbricoides (26.6%), Trichuris trichura (6.6%) and Hook worm (6.6%). The study concluded that intestinal parasitosis is still public health problem among school going children of Pokhara valley especially among Dalit students.

Key words: Intestinal parasitosis, Formal ether concentration, Children, Pokhara, Nepal
Incidence of Urinary Tract Infection among the Patients Visiting Western Regional Hospital , Pokhara, Nepal
Authors: Singh Khadka Kamal , Khadka Jagat , Lekhak Binod , Shrestha Padma , Raj Tiwari Bishnu
Published: December 2019

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Label-free highly sensitive probe detection with novel hierarchical SERS substrates fabricated by nanoindentation and chemical reaction methods
Authors: Zhang Jingran , Jia Tianqi , Yan Yongda , Wang Li , Miao Peng , Han Yimin , Zhang Xinming , Shi Guangfeng , Geng Yanquan , Weng Zhankun , Laipple Daniel , Wang Zuobin
Published: December 2019

Nanostructures have been widely employed in surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates. Recently, in order to obtain a higher enhancement factor at a lower detection limit, hierarchical structures, including nanostructures and nanoparticles, appear to be viable SERS substrate candidates. Here we describe a novel method integrating the nanoindentation process and chemical redox reaction to machine a hierarchical SERS substrate. The micro/nanostructures are first formed on a Cu(110) plane and then Ag nanoparticles are generated on the structured copper surface. The effect of the indentation process parameters and the corrosion time in the AgNO3 solution on the Raman intensities of the SERS substrate with hierarchical structures are experimentally studied. The intensity and distribution of the electric field of single and multiple Ag nanoparticles on the surface of a plane and with multiple micro/nanostructures are studied with COMSOL software. The feasibility of the hierarchical SERS substrate is verified using R6G molecules. Finally, the enhancement factor using malachite green molecules was found to reach 5.089 × 109, which demonstrates that the production method is a simple, reproducible and low-cost method for machining a highly sensitive, hierarchical SERS substrate.
Pictorial Narratives and Temporal Refinement
Authors: Fernando Tim
Published: December 2019

Refinements are proposed to the default reading of two successivepictures p,p' as p and then p'.The refinements are based on the Aristotelian dictum,no time without change,and the principle of inertia,no change without force,guided by the adage,a picture's worth a thousand words.Words describing pictures are formalized as predicates,some stative and some non-stative (expressing forces),and interpreted (in either case) over strings qua models,subject to finite-state projections supporting variable granularity.A form of string iconicity is explored, with an eye to moretransparent representations.
From think to remember: how CPs and NPs combine with attitudes in Buryat
Authors: Bondarenko Tatiana
Published: December 2019

In this paper I investigate a case of factivity alternation in Barguzin Buryat (Mongolic): the verb hanaxa is naturally translated as ‘think’ when it combines with finite CP clauses, but as ‘remember’ when it combines with nominalized clauses. I argue that the ‘remember’ meaning is a result of a pre-existence presupposition associated with the verb’s Theme argument: it is presupposed that the Theme exists prior to the event described by the verb. I propose that the factivity alternation arises due to the different ways in which CPs and nominal expressions combine with the verb semantically: while nominals saturate the Theme argument which has the pre-existence presupposition associated with it, CPs combine by modifying the event argument of the verb (Kratzer 2013, 2016; Elliott 2017).
Property concepts in Basaá and the ontology of gradability across category
Authors: Hanink Emily Anne , Koontz-Garboden Andrew , Makasso Emmanuel-moselly
Published: December 2019

Theories of gradability and comparison (e.g., Kamp 1975, Cresswell 1977 and many following) have been developed with data from familiar languages like English with adjectives at their core. In many languages, however, the main predicate in truth-conditionally equivalent constructions -- the property concept (PC) (cf. Dixon 1982) -- is of a different category: that of a nominal, which is predicated through possession cross-linguistically. Francez and Koontz-Garboden (2017) argue for a semantics for such nouns as mereologically and size-ordered sets of abstract portions, a treatment that keeps with their exhibition of mass noun behavior, with possessive predications and comparatives involving these nouns built on such a semantics.  A semantics of this kind is not standardly assumed for adjectives and constructions built on them in familiar languages, however, raising the question whether the truth-conditional equivalence of the constructions with nouns in languages that have them and the constructions with adjectives in languages that have them should be model-theoretically represented, a position assumed by Menon and Pancheva (2014), or whether this equivalence should be captured in some other way.  Based on data from modification, degree questions, subcomparatives, and equatives in Basaá (Bantu; Cameroon), we show that adjectives and the have+PC noun construction must in fact have a type-theoretically identical semantics.
Conditional antecedents as polar free relatives
Authors: Williamson Gregor
Published: December 2019

This short paper outlines a transparent syntax-semantics mapping for the internal structure of a conditional if-clause. Speciﬁcally, we show that the conditional-interrogative link (Starr 2009) is straightforwardly accounted for on the if-clause-as-restrictor analysis of conditionals (Lewis 1975; Kratzer 1981, 1986, 2012) when if-clauses are treated as polar free relatives.
‘Might’ as a generator of alternatives: the view from reasoning
Authors: Mascarenhas Salvador , Picat Léo
Published: December 2019

We argue that the epistemic modal ‘might’ is a generator of alternatives in the sense of Hamblin semantics (Kratzer & Shimoyama 2002) or inquisitive semantics (Ciardelli, Groenendijk & Roelofsen 2009). Building on methodologies from the psychology of reasoning, we show that ‘might’ patterns with disjunctions and with indefinites in giving rise to a particular kind of illusory inference. The best extant accounts of these illusory inferences crucially involve alternatives, paired with matching strategies (Walsh & Johnson-Laird 2004) or with question-answer dynamics (Koralus & Mascarenhas 2013). Our results constitute further steps toward convergence between theories and methodologies in natural language semantics and the psychology of reasoning.
Evaluation of physical and mechanical properties of fired-clay bricks incorporating both mineral and organic wastes
Authors: Achik Maryam , Benmoussa Hayat , Oulmekki Abdellah , Ijjaali M. , EL Moudden N. , Kizinievic Olga , Kizinievic Viktor
Published: December 2019

The clay brick is one of the oldest building materials, and as the use of waste in the bricks can reduce clay
consummation and the environmental burden due to the accumulation of waste, the present study was chosen, the addition of mineral and organic waste to the clay brick.
The added value of this work, which was carried out within the Institute of Building Materials at VGTU, is that the mixture
studied is very special, because the raw materials used are:
− Yellow Clay (C) from Fez which is used only in the field of pottery;
− Pyrrhotite Ash (PA) which is a mineral waste produced during the manufacture of sulphuric acid from the roasting of
pyrrhotite ore. This waste is stored in the open air since 1982 and until now it doesn't have any specific use;
− Cedar Sawdust (S) is an organic waste regenerate by the artisanal sector from Fez.
The bricks’ technological properties depended on the amount of ashes used. So, adding 5% S to the mixture (20% PA – 80% C)
gives rise to a new material that is light, porous with a natural brick red colour. Most importantly, this material exhibits mechanical strength according to the standards of a terracotta brick.
Harmonic components extraction influence on resulting modal parameters of vibrating structures
Authors: Mironovs Deniss , Mironov Aleksey , Chate Andris
Published: December 2019

It is possible to estimate condition of static structures, like bridges and buildings, by monitoring how their
modal parameters (frequency, shape and damping) change in time, based on modal parameters relation to mechanical
properties. Operational modal analysis (OMA) provides estimation of modal parameters. OMA basic assumption is that
excitation forces are random and their amplitude and frequency nature is similar to white noise. For structures with
periodic dynamic excitation, like wind turbines or helicopter blades, this assumption is violated, which makes OMA
application complicated and unreliable. There is a challenge of extracting periodic components before modal parameter
estimation, which otherwise contaminate signals and mask modal information. This paper considers a signal processing
tool for extraction of periodic components from signals aiming to perform OMA and to estimate modal parameters. The
tool is based on time synchronous averaging and utilizes tachometer signals. The influence of signal processing technique on modal parameters is studied by comparing these parameters with and without given signal processing tool. The
paper also considers the effectiveness of the tool and discusses its possible uses.
Cellulose ethers as water-retaining agents in natural hydraulic lime mortars
Authors: Vyšvařil Martin , Bayer Patrik
Published: December 2019

Cellulose ethers (CEs) are commonly used as viscosity enhancing, water retaining agents in cement-based
mortars. Nevertheless, studies about the effect of CEs on the properties of natural hydraulic lime-based mortars (NHL)
are absent, although the use of mortars with hydraulic lime is often preferred for renovation purposes. In this study, the
behavior of NHL mortars modified by four different CEs is assessed. The fresh state of mortars was characterized by
water retention, air content, density a consistency. Hardened mortars were submitted to strength determination, study of
pore size distribution, and thermogravimetric analyses. Transport of liquid water in the studied materials was characterized by water absorption coefficient, sorptivity, and liquid water diffusivity. Durability of the prepared mortars was
monitored by frost-resistance tests. The results revealed elevated air content and water retention in mortars with increasing dose of CEs resulting in decreased density of fresh mortars. The strengths of modified mortars surpassed the reference ones at age of 180 d despite the fact that the mortars showed higher open porosity and water absorption. Enhanced
porosity of mortars resulted in improvement of their frost resistance and faster carbonation. From a practical and economical point of view, the CEs dosage of 0.5% by weight of the binder appears to be sufficient.
The effect of concrete creep on the long-term tension-stiffening law and prediction of a time-dependent inertia moment of the cracked RC flexural cross-sections
Authors: Balevičius Robertas
Published: December 2019

In the paper, a long-term stress-strain model is proposed for predicting the deformational response of the
cracked reinforced concrete beams subjected to sustained bending. The linear and non-linear evolution creep strains is
evaluated in the analytical manner by using an average stress-strain approach. The cracking and creep phenomena are
coupled by two reologic elements connected in a series. In this way, the total strain of concrete prior to cracking is determined by a linear creep law accounting for the stress rate effect, while the post-cracking behavior is specified as a
sum of elastic strain between cracks, creep and cracked concrete strain, defined by the descending branch of the
stress-strain law. The smeared crack approach is adopted and, in turn, this law is associated with the tension stiffening
phenomenon. The formulae accounting for the tension stiffening decay with time due to time-variable stress are proposed and applied in prediction of the inertia moment of the cracked RC flexural members along with the obtained
results verification with the experimental data.
Thermal analysis of structural nodes – as locations of difficult geometry, using computational methods
Authors: Ksit Barbara , Szymczak-Graczyk Anna
Published: December 2019

The determination of mutual correlation between thermal and humidity-related parameters at locations with
difficult geometry is still a challenge for designers. External partitions operating in adverse environmental conditions
must exhibit specific parameters protecting against condensations and destruction, in order to ensure the operation safety
of the entire structure. Both the research, as well as construction reality have shown that thermal bridges are the critical
locations of buildings. The Investors often interfere with the design process creating hard-to-accept boundary conditions.
Lack of knowledge and experience often results in the formation of construction defects and failures.
The method of scheduling construction projects increasing the use of resources of the general contractor
Authors: Tomczak Michał , Jaśkowski Piotr
Published: December 2019

In carrying out construction projects, enterprises strive to obtain the highest degree of harmonization of the
work of the resources involved. It is manifested in ensuring continuous and regular production with a full usage of
their executive potential. The purpose of harmonization is to eliminate unjustified interruptions in the work of resources. When planning the realization of non-repetitive construction projects, one should use methods of scheduling
that allow the analysis of the project model not only as a function of time. It is also important to take into account the
effectiveness of using your own resources and limitations in their availability. The article analyzes the problem of
harmonizing the work of crews of the general contractor, performing non-rhythmic, non-cyclical and inhomogeneous
processes under the assumption of deterministic operating conditions. An important issue from the point of view of
reducing the costs of crews’ employment is the continuity of their work. A mathematical model was developed concerning the problem of minimization of downtime in the work of the general contractor crews with a directively fixed
time and limit of the project realization cost, taking into account the limitations in the availability of crews and the
possibility to outsource works to subcontractors. The possibility of subcontracting works does not allow for a clear indication in the project model sequences of processes carried out by crews and the usage of previously developed
scheduling methods. The method of solving the model (in a linear form with continuous and binary variables) is presented in the example. Additionally, the proposed method allows analyzing the impact of the amount of downtime at
work on the duration of the project and the impact of the work outsourced to subcontractors on the continuity of the
general contractor’s work.
Sensing properties of slag-based geopolymer composite with carbon fibers under compressive loading
Authors: Rovnaník Pavel , Kusák Ivo , Topolář Libor , Schmid Pavel
Published: December 2019

Application of functional materials has become a new trend in the construction industry. This paper aims to
study the electrical and self-sensing properties of slag-based geopolymer composite. In order to improve the electrical
conductivity of the basic geopolymer mortar, carbon fibers in the amount of 0.5, 1 and 2% were added. The influence
of fiber addition on the electrical properties was determined by impedance spectroscopy and microstructure was analyzed by means of mercury intrusion porosimetry and SEM. The sensing properties were tested under repeated compressive loading in the elastic range and finally under loading till failure. The electrical resistance decreased with the
addition of carbon fibers but it caused a deterioration of the mechanical properties. The addition of fibers does not
generally improve the sensing performance of the geopolymer composite, but the mixture with 2% of fibers appeared
to be unsuitable for this purpose due to the low signal-to-noise ratio.
Advanced computational methods of perpendicularly loaded laminated glass panes
Authors: Hána Tomáš , Vokáč Miroslav , Eliášová Martina , Machalická Klára V.
Published: December 2019

Various examples of glass load bearing structures such as beams, columns, panes, or even stairs are used in
a current architecture. For safety reasons, these members are mostly made of laminated glass. Polymeric interlayers are
used for glass plates bonding and their shear stiffness, as a time-temperature dependent parameter, meaningly influences
the response of the entire perpendicularly loaded laminated glass pane. Even though the shear stiffness of the interlayer
is available, the exact stress-state analysis of the pane is rather challenging. This paper compares the results of
perpendicularly loaded double laminated glass panes at various boundary conditions, calculated by current advanced
analytical methods and by the draft of the European standard prEN 16612 to the numerical simulation performed in
RFEM 5®. Important differences between these methods are illustrated. Futher recommendations for a design of these
structures in practice are also provided.
Crack parameters in normal section of FRP strengthened RC elements
Authors: Slaitas Justas , Valivonis Juozas
Published: December 2019

Contrary to existing studies, this paper presents a prediction model of crack parameters in normal section of
FRP strengthened RC elements neglecting crack spacing. A relation between normal crack width, depth and strains in
the level of FRP reinforcement, established by Slaitas et al. (Slaitas, Daugevičius, Valivonis, & Grigorjeva, 2018a) and
Jokūbaitis et al. (Jokūbaitis & Juknevičius, 2013; Jokūbaitis, Juknevičius, & Šalna, 2013), allowed authors to describe
the full development of the crack up to the element failure. Numerical results are compared with experimental ones from
the tests of 9 RC beams, strengthened with externally bonded and near surface mounted FRP reinforcements.
High rise buildings in Europe from energy performance perspective
Authors: Sajjadian Seyed Masoud , Tupenaite Laura , Kanapeckiene Loreta , Naimaviciene Jurga , Radif Sarah , Amado Miguel
Published: December 2019

The United States is well known for the birthplace of tall buildings in the world since the nineteenth
century. The trend continued across all continents and in 1940, Europe developed its first tall building of over 100
meters in Genoa, Italy. Building codes, technological development, energy crisis, etc. have all influenced the built
environment in different ways, a very visible sign of such impacts can be seen in high rise buildings not only on their
architectural style but also on their performance. Different studies worldwide investigate energy performance of
modern high-rise buildings; however, evolution of such buildings is rarely considered; energy performance of
different high-rise buildings’ generations is seldom investigated and compared. To close a gap this study aims to make
a closer look of how technological developments and energy crisis affected high-rise buildings in Europe with a focus
on their energy performance.
Gypsum composition with siltstone-based mineral modifier
Authors: Yakovlev Grigory , Gordina Anastasiya , Khritankov Vladimir , Khozin Vadim , Shaybadullina Arina , Khazeev Damir , Bazhenova Irina , Ivakina Anna , Saidova Zarina , Repin Alexander
Published: December 2019

The paper presents the results of studies of the structure and properties of the gypsum composition comprising 3% of crushed siltstone, a metamorphic rock. The structure and physicochemical properties of siltstone were
studied, which predetermine its usage as a structuring additive in gypsum compositions. Adding crushed siltstone to
the composition of a gypsum binder is shown to cause the compaction of the structure of the gypsum matrix due to
changes in the morphology of crystalline hydrates of calcium sulfate and monolithic structure in general, and, consequently, the enhanced mechanical characteristics of the gypsum composition. Using scanning electron microscopy,
differential thermography, and IR spectral analysis explain the change in the physicomechanical properties of the
gypsum binder.
High-strength fluoroanhydrite composition
Authors: Yakovlev Grigory , Keriene Jadvyga , Grakhov Valery , Drochytka Rostislav , Gordina Anastasiya , Pichugin Anatoly , Bazhenov Kirill , Troshkova Viktoriya
Published: December 2019

The research studies the properties of a high-strength anhydrite composition based on fluoroanhydrite, a
waste product of hydrofluoric acid. To activate fluoranhydrite, Na3PO4 sodium phosphate was added to the composition in an amount of 3% of the mass. The physico-chemical studies of the structure and properties of activated fluoroanhydrite conducted using infrared spectroscopy and X-ray phase analysis showed changes in the composition of the
hardened composite, and the study of the fluoroanhydrite microstructure revealed the formation of a denser matrix
with the increased strength. An increase in the water resistance of the developed binder matrix was noted. The composition can be used as a cheap substitute for gypsum plaster due to the low prime cost of raw materials, and also contribute to the improvement of the environmental situation in fluoroanhydrite disposal sites.
Experimental investigation of secondary use of punched metal plate fasteners in timber structures
Authors: Stulpinas Mantas , Gečys Tomas
Published: December 2019

In this article, the possibility of secondary use of punched metal plate fasteners for timber structures is experimentally investigated. The secondary used metal plate fasteners are experimentally tested in both positions, parallel and perpendicular to the timber grain. For this purpose, the tension-to-tension test setup is used. Laboratory experiments of the secondary used metal plate fasteners are performed in parallel with the corresponding connection
with the same size new metal plate fastener. All specimens for laboratory experiments are prefabricated at the factory.
Laboratory experiments are done with an aim to investigate both, the reduction of the load bearing capacity and the
stiffness, when metal plate fasteners are secondary used. In this article, the main design principles of joints with metal
plate fasteners according to the Eurocode 5, are also discussed. The comparison between the strength and stiffness of
the firstly and secondary used joints is provided. The comparison between the experimental and theoretical strength
and stiffness calculation results according to the Eurocode 5 is provided too. The received results show high potential
for the future research in secondary used punched metal fasteners, as the reduction of the strength and stiffness is
around 20 percent, comparing with the first time used fasteners.
Global sensitivity analysis of failure probability caused by fatigue crack propagation
Authors: Kala Zdeněk
Published: December 2019

The probability of failure of a load bearing steel member is investigated using a new type of global sensitivity analysis subordinated to contrasts. The main objective of the probability-oriented sensitivity analysis is structural
reliability. The structural reliability methodology uses random variables as inputs. The subject of interest is the identification
of those random variables that are most important when the limit state of a steel bridge member is reached. The limit state is
defined by the occurrence of brittle fracture, which results from stress changes caused by multiple repeated loads. The propagation of a single-edge crack from initial to critical size is analysed using linear fracture mechanics. The failure probability
and sensitivity indices are calculated using sampling-based methods. The sensitivity indices are estimated using double-nested-loop simulation of the Latin Hypercube Sampling method. New findings indicate that interaction effects among
input variables strongly influence the probability of failure especially at the beginning of the operating period.
Big data in construction industry: systematic literature overview
Authors: Verdenhofs Atis , Geipele Ineta , Tambovceva Tatjana
Published: December 2019

Technological advancement has led to tremendous increase of data. Many industries utilize big data to become
more efficient or even to create new products or services. Applications of big data in construction industry has been
extensively researched in Asia that can be explained with huge construction volumes in the area. This study is aimed at
identifying big data applications in construction industry in time period beyond 2016.
Research object is construction industry, research subject is big data applications. Research methods used in this research
are systematic literature overview and meta-analysis. Novelty of the research is classification of big data applications
based on systematic literature overview. Authors conclude that existing categorization (Bilal et al., 2016b) can be applied to researches
about big data applications in construction industry published in 2016 and later. However, potential for new applications is identified
in category of emerging trends triggered by big data and authors propose to perform cross-industry analysis to identify solutions
that can be adopted to construction industry.
Long-term properties of foamed concrete
Authors: Gailitis Rihards , Sprince Andina , Pakrastins Leonids , Shakhmenko Genadijs , Kozlovskis Tomass , Radina Liga
Published: December 2019

Foamed concrete has been used as a building material since the early 1920s. In the beginning, it was used as
an insulation material with very low density. Since then there have been attempts to improve the structural properties in
order to increase materials load-bearing capacity. In the present-day foamed concrete is being used in soil reinforcement,
manufacturing of building blocks and other sorts of construction materials (Mugahed Amran, Farzadnia, & Abang Ali,
2015).
The aim of this article is to determine the behaviour and long-term properties of foamed concrete.
Cylindrical specimens (Ø46×190 mm) were used for creep and shrinkage testing. The creep properties of the specimens
were determined by loading them with 20% and 60% of the ultimate compressive stress value (Sprince, 2015).
The compressive strength, creep, shrinkage and specific creep of the material were examined. It was determined that
during 90 days of creep testing the non-linear creep deformations (specimens loaded with 60% of the ultimate stress)
are 4 times larger than linear creep deformations (specimens loaded with 20% of the ultimate stress). Also, changes in
the modulus of elasticity of foamed concrete were researched over time. Foamed concrete modulus of elasticity reached
12.21 GPa on the 28th day, 12.49 GPa on the 62nd and 14.23 GPa on the 144th day since the specimens were made.
Application of concrete slurry waste in cement screeds
Authors: Reiterman Pavel , Keppert Martin
Published: December 2019

Sedimented concrete slurry waste (CSW), containing cement, mineral additives, fine fillers, admixtures and
water, is currently a waste without an additional use and has to be fully landfilled. Current CSW management is very
expensive and introduces number of environmental risks due to its high pH, exceeding 11.5. This paper deals with the
application of two types of CSW as cement replacement in cement screed. The evaluation was carried out in terms of
workability and basic mechanical performance of the obtained composites. The applied cement replacement was up to
10 wt.% due to the negative impact on the rheology of fresh mixtures. Reduced workability consequently caused higher
content of air in the fresh mixture. It was reflected by lower values of bulk density in hardened state for both studied
CSW. These aspects were the reasons of decreased mechanical performance by approximately 15% per 5 wt.% of replacement. Conducted experimental program declared significant limits of CSW application in cement based composites, however additional processing of CSW could significantly modify its properties.