bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined Artificial Intelligence and Fuzzy logic Model for the process of groundwater treatment for irrigation and drinking purposes using filtration and other membrane process
Authors: Narendran S , Yakkala Bhaskar Rao , Cyril Robinson Azariah J , Sivagami A
Published: December 2021

The process of water purification or water filtration takes several stage approaches. In which, the membrane model process is an important role in filtration. This research work is done by considering double filtration method for filtration process and it is modelled by clustering of Artificial Neural Network and multiple linear regression approach. In this research work, ten different physical parameters and chemical parameters for designing our model. The measurement of groundwater quality for both irrigation and drinking water is a complex process due to various factors such as geology, hydrogeology, biology, etc. With the help of Neural network and fuzzy logic systems approach, we have studied the quality of water in various part of south India. For the process of double filtration process, we have taken rapid sand filter followed by slow sand filter. For the membrane process of water treatment, the membrane chosen for the research are reverse osmosis, microfiltration and nanofiltration.
Sediment Transport and Associated Long-term Bathymetric Changes due to Tidal Currents in The Seto Inland Sea, Japan
Authors: Ubara Motoki , Uchiyama Yusuke , Kosako Taichi
Published: December 2021

The topography of the seafloor is essential for determining physical phenomena such as ocean currents, favorable habitats for marine organisms, optimal vessel navigation, and so on. Prevailing currents and waves, as well as associated shear stresses acting on the ocean floor, are responsible for the formation of typical topographic features including sea caldrons and sandbanks through erosion of bedrock and sediments and their deposition processes. In the Seto Inland Sea (SIS), the most extensive semi-enclosed estuary in Japan, tidal currents affect pronouncedly the formation of seafloor topographic features; however, they have not been fully studied, particularly from a hydrodynamic viewpoint. This study aims to understand bathymetric formation under the predominance of tidal currents in the SIS. A 3-D high-resolution SIS circulation model based on the JCOPE2-ROMS system in a triple-nested configuration was utilized to examine the detailed hydrodynamic processes for the topography formations. A high correlation between the bottom shear stress and the scour depth of the erosive areas was observed, demonstrating that local tidal forcing has continuously been exerted on the seafloor to erode. A diagnostic sediment budget analysis was then conducted for sediments typical of the SIS, that is, gravel, sand, and clay, using the modeled circulation field. The horizontal divergence of the residual flows indicates consistency between divergence (convergence) and erosion (deposition). The sediment budget model also shows that these sediments are generally transported from deep to shallow areas in eroded terrains to form deposited terrains fringing the eroded terrains, whereas sedimentation tendency differs largely from location to location.
Increasing Effectiveness of The Urban Artificial Reservoir Trough Cross Section Improvement
Authors: Arbaningrum Rizka , Dianty Marelianda Al , Putuhena Frederik Josef , Priyambodo Rifki , Ontowirjo Budianto
Published: December 2021

Situ Ciledug is an artificial reservoir located at Tangerang Selatan, Indonesia. In 1950 known as one of the largest lakes with total area of 32.806 hectares. As time goes by, due to the construction of housing and land use around the area, the catcahment area was reduced about 19.3 hectares in 2013 and by the end of 2020 the surface area was become 16.2 hectares. Urbanization is the main factor that makes the area of Situ Ciledug’s narrower. The second impact was flooding, as a result, the flood inundates the cities around the reservoir. This study aims to increase the storage capacities by normalizing the reservoir using SWMM 5.1 software. Hydrological analysis was carried out in the first stage to find the maximum rainfall using a 100-year return period. Then result intensity of rainfall used to analyze the hyetograph as input for rainfall data in SWMM 5.1. The modeling uses a maximum of rainfall about 107 mm with a reservoir depth of 1.3 meters. The large inflow that enters the reservoir is 87.504 m3/second aand the volume is 30.145 m3/second. Therefore, it is necessary to normalize the reservoir by increasing the depth of the reservoir by 0.7 meters. Normalization is carried out to accommodate flood discharge as a solution to flood mitigation due to the overflow.
Solar powered a wearable Electrocardiography (ECG) device with battery storage
Authors: Chong Kok-Keong , Wong Guan-Zhen
Published: December 2021

In this article, we propose a wearable ECG device that can be continuously powered by both the sun and artificial lighting via battery charging. The ECG signal acquired by the AD8232 wearable sensor associated with Arduino Nano is sent to the smartphone via Bluetooth. To study the feasibility of solar powered wearable gadget, we have conducted several experiments to analyze the charging speed in both outdoor and indoor conditions. For fully charging 1200 mAh battery, the two solar panels require periods of 5 - 11 hours and 1698 - 1942 hours for outdoor and indoor conditions respectively. The study has shown that the indoor charging is far ineffective as compared to outdoor charging due to spectral mismatch. The current consumption of the device is low and the fully charged battery can act as a buffer to sustain the device for 48 ∼ 60 hours without the need of any further charging.
Effect of Heating Duration at High Temperature on the Strength and Integrity of Fly Ash-Based Geopolymer Concrete
Authors: Razak Siti Nooriza Abd , Shafiq Nasir , Guillaumat Laurent , Wahab Mohamed Mubarak Abdul , Farhan Syed Ahmad , Husna Nadzhratul , Ismail Fouad Ismail
Published: December 2021

Fire is one of the most severe environmental conditions that concrete structures might be subjected to, especially in closed conduct structures, such as tunnels. Concrete in general can withstand fire but its properties degrade when exposed to fire at high temperatures. The effect of heating duration, at a high temperature, on the performance of fly ash-based geopolymer concrete is presented. Cubes of low, medium and high strength grades of geopolymer concrete that had been cured for 28 days, were exposed to a fire flame at 1000 °C for 30, 60, 90, 120, 150 and 180 min. After the fire exposure, the cubes were cooled to the ambient temperature before further testing. A visual observation was performed on the cubes to detect any colour change, cracking and spalling. The losses of mass and residual compressive strength of the cubes were recorded. The results showed that as the heating duration increased from 30 to 90 min, the compressive strength of the cubes also increased. Contrarily, the compressive strength decreased as the heating duration increased beyond 90 min indicating that the extended heating duration induced the loss of free water and decomposition of aluminosilicate products in geopolymer concrete. The evaporation of water by virtue of the heating for the extended duration, at high temperature, led to a loss in the mass of concrete. The findings suggest that geopolymer concrete was able to sustain its structural integrity without any noticeable spalling and hence, it can be classified as a fire-resistant material.
Green-Building-Index-Assessment-Criteria-Based Comparative Evaluation of Interlocking Blocks as an Alternative to Conventional Masonry for Residential Buildings in Malaysia
Authors: Mohd Sayang Syazanna Raf’ee , Liew Mohd Shahir , Zawaw Noor Amila Wan Abdullah , Farhan Syed Ahmad , Shafiq Nasir
Published: December 2021

Major residential construction projects adopt clay bricks as masonry, which can contribute to high carbon emission, primarily due to their high embodied carbon. Furthermore, the adoption of conventional masonry, including clay bricks, may lead to the use of high amounts of mortar and contribute to a lot of wastage. Therefore, an alternative system that can potentially replace conventional masonry is required to reduce the wastage as well as carbon emission. Interlocking blocks, which adopt a lock and key system has the potential to replace conventional masonry as they employ locally available materials, save construction time, use less mortar and are less dependent on highly skilled masons. In view of their potential, the adoption of interlocking blocks in residential buildings were evaluated comparatively to conventional masonry, namely clay and cement sand bricks, based on the Green Building Index Assessment Criteria for Residential New Construction (GBI-RNC) tool. Overall Thermal Transfer Values of test models that employed conventional masonry and interlocking blocks were calculated. Approximately, based on the GBI-RNC tool, with an increase of 17-18 points achieved from the EE, MR and IN criteria, a Silver rating can be achieved with the adoption of interlocking blocks.
Research Trend Analysis of Artificial Intelligence Rainfall Prediction Algorithms Based on Knowledge Networks
Authors: Zhang Ting , Liew Soung Yue , Huang Xiao Yan , Lee How Chinh , Qin Dong Hong
Published: December 2021

This research uses CiteSpace software as a tool to sort out the research results of artificial intelligence-based rainfall prediction models and algorithms in the China Knowledge Network Database (CNKI) and the “Web of Science” database, summarize relevant research hotspots and topics, and identify the latest research Trends, provide a reference for further advancement of rainfall prediction models and algorithms. Through knowledge network analysis, the following conclusions are drawn: (1) The literature based on rainfall prediction models and algorithms has shown an increasing trend over time. (2) It is scientific research institutions and colleges and universities of various countries that publish a large number of relevant documents. (3) The current research trend is deep learning and meteorological satellites. Neural networks tend to study a variety of data assimilation and hybrid models. (4) Global artificial intelligence-based rainfall prediction models and algorithms research results show that more emphasis is placed on deep learning algorithms Application trends.
Mechanical Performance of High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Composites Containing Quarry Dust Filler
Authors: Xuen Fu Yee , Hoe Kwan Wai , Munusamy Yamuna
Published: December 2021

An innovative thermoplastic composite was produced using quarry dust which is an industrial waste from quarry industries. The quarry dust was added into high-density polyethylene (HDPE) using melt blending technique in an internal mixer at different mixing loading ratios. The quarry dust filled HDPE (QD-HDPE) composites were then characterized in terms of morphological and mechanical properties. Analysis on processing torque to produce QD-HDPE composites was conducted and the results showed that the optimum quarry dust loading in HDPE composites is at 30wt%. The results from mechanical test such as ultimate tensile strength (UTS), E-modulus, elongation at break, and flexural strength justify this. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis shows that quarry dust had a rough surface with sharp edges and it can be successfully added into HDPE matrix as a filler. In conclusion, performance of the HDPE composites is enhanced by the incorporation of quarry dust. This indicates that quarry dust is a potential filler to be used in thermoplastic composite industries in order to reduce the production cost and relax the pollution problems.
Investigation of the growth of Chlorella vulgaris and Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cultivated in pre-treated palm oil mill effluent (POME) as the culture medium
Authors: Phang Y K , Tey L-H , Aminuzzaman M , Akhtaruzzaman M , Watanabe A
Published: December 2021

The application of microalgae in wastewater treatment has attracted the attention of researchers since a few decades ago. Palm oil industry is one of the lucrative main exporting industry in Malaysia which has drawn the attention of researchers in mitigating the polluting impacts caused by the palm oil mill effluent (POME) released from the oil palm processing. In this study, the growth of the green algae Chlorella vulgaris and Chlamydomonas reinhardtii in the pre-treated POME was studied for 7 continuous days. The number of microalgae cells, chlorophylls and carotenoids contents were monitored throughout the cultivation period. The potential of both strains of microalgae as the water polisher for post-treatment of POME was investigated as well. The findings revealed that both microalgae showed lag phase at the beginning of cultivation and grew exponentially later. When monitoring the chlorophyll content, chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b played a role in photosynthesis when the microalgae detected environmental changes. The carotenoids in the microalgae acted as the accessory pigments which assisted in light harvesting under poor light condition and as the antioxidant protecting the cells when there was excess light. C. vulgaris was able to remove 98.1 % of phosphate and 53.1 % of ammoniacal nitrogen while C. reinhardtii removed 90.1 % and 37.3 %, respectively. This study indicated that two microalgae species have a high potential to be integrated in the post-treatment for POME.
Comparison of spreadsheet-based optimization tools applied to construction site layout problem
Authors: Dasović B , Klanšek U
Published: December 2021

This paper compares different spreadsheet-based optimization tools applied to a practical example of a construction site layout problem. The objective of the optimization is to minimize the total time of material transportation by optimal positioning of tower crane and work facilities on the construction site with repetitive operations. Computer programs, such as MS Excel, LibreOffice Calc, and Google Sheets can be applied as modeling tools for a variety of construction optimization problems in addition to their usual functionalities. In this study, LibreOffice Calc Solver, MS Excel Solver, along with other MS Excel add-ins, i.e., OpenSolver, Evolver, and What’sBest, are analyzed. The capabilities of optimization tools mentioned above are examined on the problem of optimal positioning of tower crane and work facilities on the construction site. The results obtained by optimization tools are noted and discussed. The paper ends with conclusions and recommendations for further research.
Removal of organic micropollutants in the biological units of a Swedish wastewater treatment plant
Authors: Burzio C , Nivert E , Mattsson A , Svahn O , Persson F , Modin O , Wilén B M
Published: December 2021

The present study investigates the presence and removal of target organic micropollutants in a large Swedish wastewater treatment plant designed for nutrient removal including activated sludge, trickling filters, nitrifying moving bed biofilm reactors (MBBRs) and post-denitrifying MBBRs. A total of 28 organic micropollutants were analysed, at concentrations ranging from few ng/L to µg/L, in the influent and effluent of the different biological reactors in two sampling campaigns. The observed micropollutant removal efficiencies of the wastewater treatment plant varied from insignificant (< 20%) to high (> 90%) between compounds. The activated sludge reactor, being the first in line, contributed to most of the removal from the water phase. Additional removal of a few compounds was observed in the biofilm units, but most of the persistent compounds remained stable through all biological treatments.
The proposals for intensification of a non-capacity wastewater treatment plant
Authors: Kubínová T , Kyncl M
Published: December 2021

The article deals with the possibilities of intensification of mechanical-biological wastewater treatment plant with intermittent Flexidiblok type activity with denitrification. This wastewater treatment plant is located in a municipality with more than double of the equivalent population than the capacity of the wastewater treatment plant and therefore does not meet current legislative requirements. Proposals for the intensification of the wastewater treatment plant offer the possibility of reconstructing the existing wastewater treatment plant to the required capacity or rebuilding this wastewater treatment plant to a pumping station. Part of the article is an economic-technological comparison of both proposals.
The effectiveness of SuDS measures in reducing the rainwater runoff from urbanized areas
Authors: Marko I , Wittmanová R , Hrudka J , Stanko Š
Published: December 2021

Over the last few years, climate change is one of the most important phenomena in the 21st century. It is bringing significant changes and negatively affecting the environment. This unwanted phenom causes substantial changes in climatic and hydrological characteristics that are manifested mainly in urban agglomerations. It affects extreme weather changes, the occurrence of natural disasters, water shortages, and other phenomena threatening the quality of the environment. On the other hand, there are measures close to nature based on the sustainable development of urbanized areas. Their main goal is to reduce the volume and rate of runoff and the concentration of undesirable substances in rain runoff from urban areas. Therefore, in the research study, we focus on evaluating published studies that have adopted the SuDS practices. We will compare the effectiveness of SuDS measures in capturing flood peak from surface runoff, pollution loads, and their impact on water quality. The result of this study could help select SuDS measures depending on the need to address the problem in the river basin.
Hydrodynamic assessment of object on the sewer network in the city of Trnava
Authors: Šutúš M , Rózsa G , Csóka M , Stanko Š , Škultétyová I
Published: December 2021

As in most Slovak cities, there is a combined sewer network in the city of Trnava. Therefore, combined sewer overflow (CSO) must be provided on these networks in order to mix rainwater and sewage water. The purpose of these CSO’s is to reduce the amount of rainwater supplied to the treatment plant and to discharge part of the rainwater to the recipient. However, these waters contain various contaminants, including coarse solids, fine suspended solids, and solutes. Due to this, reduced water quality was recorded in the Trnávka recipient. This reduced quality is also due to the increased number of reliefs as prescribed by Government Regulation n.269/2010. The aim of the work is the analysis and selection of unsuitable relief chambers that do not meet the given limits. Hydrodynamic simulations are performed on these chambers, which demonstrate the need to reduce the amount of rainwater or reconstruction of CSO’s.
Life-cycle assessment of a photovoltaic panel: Assessment of energy intensity of production and environmental impacts
Authors: Vácha M , Kodymová J , Lapčík V
Published: December 2021

A number of articles have already been published on energy recovery from the sun using solar panels and their environmental impacts. However, in this article, we assess the impact of solar panel technology, and use separately obtained data based on the disassembly of a specific photovoltaic panel into discrete parts. The aim of this article is to list all the environmental impacts of this panel per unit of energy produced and at the same time to focus primarily on deciphering the energy intensity of individual phases of the life cycle of photovoltaic panel production. An analytical method of Life-cycle assessment using the environmental software version SimaPro 9.0.049 with an integrated Ecoinvent 3 database was used to determine the environmental impacts. Throughout the work, we focus on the data obtained, which shows that the process of photovoltaic panel production itself is very energy-intensive, especially in the phase of photovoltaic cell production and solar glass production. In other phases, which is the production of individual parts of the photovoltaic panel, its use, and subsequent recycling, they do not contribute so much to the overall energy balance. In the environmental impact assessment, the most affected aspects were human health, followed by climatic change, resources, and the ecosystem quality came last. In all four of the above categories, the influence of the photovoltaic cell production phase was determined to be dominant.
Parasitic Architectural Forms (PAF) S01.E02 “Methodology and Ontology”
Authors: Baroš T , Katunský D
Published: December 2021

This paper is to present the chosen methodology for research and thus approach the design process through biomimicry. The described methodology is applied in parasitic architecture research, focusing on developing the experimental design of architectural structure using artificial intelligence and thus approach and support the central hypothesis of the work -the effort to create self-designing and self-growing / developing architecture. Furthermore, the paper outlines the ontology as a model of knowledge, a source of data for the developed software © PAF A.I. and a source of inspiration influencing the final design of the proposed architectural structure. The way in which such an ontological resource is processed for research purposes and how it participates in the final design within the verification and validation of the whole conceptual design is also described. Besides, the paper explains why the ontology in question is essential and what was established as its content.
Biaxial testing of textile material - methodology and instrument assembly procedure
Authors: Freiherrova N , Hornakova M , Juracka D , Stulerova L , Kapolka L
Published: December 2021

Membrane structures are becoming popular because of the potential usage in structures with higher aesthetic claims. For the roofing of these structures, different textile materials are used. These special materials offer an alternative to conventional roofing materials and allow, besides its lightweightness, also a possibility to roof a difficult floor plan and big span. When designing such a construction, there are some challenges related to the properties of the specific material. In order to exploit the full potential of textile membrane materials, it is necessary to choose an appropriate material model for numerical modelling, which takes into account its nonlinear behaviour. The two most important material characteristics needed for characterizing the behaviour are Young’s modulus of elasticity and Poisson’s ratio. Since the material is orthotropic in most cases, it is necessary to test the material in two directions; therefore, these characteristics need to be obtained from the biaxial test. This contribution is focused on the research of the methodology of biaxial tests and test instrument assembly procedure, which will be used for the following testing of textile materials.
Theoretical Analysis of Structural I-beams Using Various Types of Transparent Wood
Authors: Karla V , Bajzecerová V , Kanócz J
Published: December 2021

In this article, a numerical analysis of various types of I-beam with web from transparent wood was performed and compared with standard OSB board and glass web. Properties of transparent plywood which have not yet been produced from new kinds of transparent wood samples were calculated using laminate theory. Results of analysis show, that the transparent wood composites prove to be very promising structural material for future use within the load-bearing structures of buildings. The best properties showed the transparent wood composites infiltrated by cellulose nanofibers (CNF) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA).
Study of the properties of chemically resistant repair mortar with the use of secondary raw materials
Authors: Figala P , Drochytka R , Hermann R
Published: December 2021

This paper deals with the research of a new silicate-based repair mortar modified with selected secondary raw materials. The aim of this work is to develop a chemically resistant material suitable for use in an extremely aggressive environment of sewers. The monitored parameters include key physical-mechanical characteristics, resistance to sulphate ions and to the attack of aggressive biogenic sulfuric acid. Chemical resistance was tested by simulating the exposure environment in laboratory conditions, according to the methodology of DIN 19573. The obtained results show that by suitable modification of the reference mortar it is possible to maintain the values of physical-mechanical characteristics and improve the chemical resistance of test samples.
The use of construction and rubber recycled material for the production of cement composites with thermal insulation function
Authors: Charvát J , Svoboda J , Máčalová K , Chlebková L , Papesch R
Published: December 2021

This article presents the results of the possible use of construction waste and rubber granulate as a filler substitute for the production of cement composites with thermal insulation properties. It describes the individual components of the materials necessary for the designing of recipes and their properties. The article presents the thermal insulation properties and strength characteristics of the designed recipes of non-traditional cement composite after 7, 14, 28 and 90 days.
Mechanical fracture parameters of concrete drill-core specimens supported by a slenderness ratio study
Authors: Lisztwan D , Kumpova I , Danek P , Frantík P , Kersner Z
Published: December 2021

The detailed analytical and experimental investigation of the fracture behaviour of quasi-brittle materials is an endeavour which has been ongoing worldwide for many years. Such materials are usually characterized in terms of their mechanical fracture parameters, which are determined based on the evaluation of quasi-static fracture experiments. One of the most commonly used building materials with a quasi-brittle response is concrete, which is most often based on a cement matrix. It is sometimes also necessary to characterize concrete included in existing structures. In this case, test specimens are obtained by core drilling, and the investigation is conducted with the requirement to maximize the number of parameters obtained while minimizing the number of test specimens drilled from the structure. This paper focuses on the mechanical fracture parameters of core-drilled specimens taken from a selected concrete structure. Tests were performed on cylindrical specimens with a chevron-notched stress concentrator in the three-point bending configuration in order to determine modulus of elasticity, fracture toughness and fracture energy. Subsequently, theoretical compressive strength was estimated and tests for the determination of compressive strength values were performed focusing on dependence on the slenderness ratio, i.e. the relationship between the compressive strength and the length to diameter ratio of the cylindrical specimens. In relation to the obtained mechanical fracture parameters, selected specimens were analysed and three-dimensionally characterized via high-resolution X-ray computed tomography.
Self-sensing performance of metakaolin geopolymer with carbon nanotubes subjected to repeated compressive loading
Authors: Mizerová C , Rovnaník P , Kusák I , Schmid P
Published: December 2021

Alkaline activated binders showing enhanced piezoresistive properties have recently attracted increased interest in research of their application in smart self-sensing components. This study is focused on metakaolin geopolymer mortar doped with 0.05 and 0.10% carbon nanotubes, a conductive filler that effectively increases electrical conductivity without considerable deterioration of mechanical properties. Self-sensing performance of composites incorporated with electrodes and attached strain gauge was tested during different regimes of compressive loading cycles with continuous monitoring of strain and resistivity. Although the differences in sensitivity and repeatability were observed, all samples including the reference material have shown good response to applied loading.
Characterization of materials used for earth architecture in Eastern Croatia
Authors: Perić A
Published: December 2021

Even though earthen architecture is recognized as cultural heritage in Croatia, most of existing buildings are in deteriorated and heavily damaged state. Until today, there has been no conducted research on earthen architecture in Croatia, nor was any preservation act proclaimed. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to learn more about behaviour of traditional earthen architecture to highlight the importance of sustainable building. For that purpose, earthen houses in Eastern Croatia, mainly Slavonia and Baranja area, were studied and in-situ samples were collected. In order to learn about characteristics and composition of mixtures, five samples were tested. Results gathered within this research will be the first step towards creation of national standard for designing rammed earth structures. In scope of future research, authors are planning to use verified recipe in making of walls that will be tested for seismic resistance.
Evaluation of loading methods for determination of material and elastic constants of cement fiber board
Authors: Nespesny O , Pencik J , Vystrcil J , Beckovsky D
Published: December 2021

Cement fiber boards (CFB) are special group that are used in a wide range of structural civil engineering. For the correct design of a cement fibre board structure, it is important to define their material and elastic constants, which are usually determined by destructive tests. The paper deals with a definition of a suitable method of loading for the determination of basic materials and elastic constants of cement fiber boards reinforced with organic fibers loaded in the mid-plane. The publication compares and evaluates load tests by three-point and four-point bend.
Computational modelling of mechanical response of glulam beams due to moisture inducted delamination
Authors: Pełczyński J , Król P A
Published: December 2021

Glued laminated timber beams are nowadays used as load-bearing beams of large-span structures that operate in various humidity conditions. Typical application areas are aqua parks with high humidity as well as market halls with low humidity. It is related to the possibility of the occurrence of cracks typical for the drying of wood, even with such controlled conditions of production technology as glued laminated timber. Cracks visible on the used girders raise doubts as to the safe operation of the structures. The subject of this paper is the computational simulation and the evaluation of the influence of beam delamination on the mechanical response of the structure. The attention was established on a typical two-span beam of constant height with a slight slope to the horizontal. The numerical analysis was carried out for three variants of the location of potential delamination of different scope. The beams were modeled as a problem of the linear theory of elasticity in a plane stress state with orthotropic material properties. The calculations were made in the Abaqus software environment. The results obtained in the paper allow to determine the areas in which the presence of delamination or cracks should be considered dangerous from the point of view of the safety of operation. Computational analysis is helpful in assessing the safety of structures where cracks appear. Theoretical considerations are supplemented by an example from engineering practice.
Modal analysis of a membrane structure with actuators
Authors: Stulerova L , Kapolka L , Kmet S
Published: December 2021

The aim of this paper is the analysis of the modal vibration of the membrane structure. Membranes are defined as structures of the lightweight architecture and they are currently very popular. They have a long history and development, in which they have reached a stage where we can complement them with action elements, also called actuators. These elements can change their length and thus affect a stress state of a membrane, which allows more efficient use. In addition to a static analysis, it is necessary to subject structures to a dynamic analysis, in this case we deal with the natural vibration. This modal analysis deals with the first 5 mode shapes and their dependence on the change in the length of the actuators. This initial calculation will be followed by a forced vibration analysis in the future.
Prepared experimental study for durability verification of FRP reinforced concrete members
Authors: Blaho S , Gajdošová K
Published: December 2021

Major advantage of fibre reinforced polymers (FRPs) is their high strength and low weight to strength ratio. These are also the main reasons for a choice for this material in the process of design of reinforced concrete structures. Since there is no corrosion of FRP, this reinforcement could be strongly recommended for concrete reinforcement in aggressive environment. Till today there is no sufficient knowledge of long-term behaviour of FRP-reinforced concrete structures. Design codes give low utilization capacity of FRP materials and are not supposed to be correct according to the real behaviour in a few experiments of last decades. Reduction factors limit the mechanical properties in the range from 0.95 for CFRP to 0.5 for GFRP. In the paper there is presented a prepared and today realized long-term experimental study based on four point bending test on simply supported concrete beams reinforced with GFRP reinforcement.
Comparison of the effect of GFRP and steel reinforcement in concrete members subjected to compressive stress
Authors: Šenšelová Ž , Borzovič V
Published: December 2021

Composite materials became more popular and commercially available as reinforcement for concrete elements. Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP) bar is an excellent thermal and electrical insulator with high tensile strength and low weight. These assumptions make them a possible substitution for steel reinforcement. Moreover, GFRP is not responsible to corrosion for that are suitable for structures with high humidity and unfavorable environment. GFRP is easier to handle due to its low weight. Also, it has electromagnetic neutrality. But it has some disadvantages. It has a low modulus of elasticity and sensitivity to elevated temperatures. Another drawback and uncertainty with designing is the impact of an alkaline environment, which decreases the long-term strength of GFRP bars. This paper describes a pre-experiment study of concrete elements resistance. The analysis is performed for a cross-section of 200x150 mm for a short concrete column with steel and GFRP reinforcement. The study compares P-M diagrams for steel reinforcement and GFRP reinforcement with different reinforcement ratios. Other characteristics such as tensile strength and modulus of elasticity must be considered to design the GFRP reinforced concrete element. The study also considers the contribution of GFRP reinforcement in compression. The analysis has shown, the shape of interaction diagrams of steel and GFRP reinforcement are significantly different.
Construction types and typologies of existing masonry arch bridges in Croatia
Authors: Trajber D , Penava D , Rinaudo F , Sarhosis V , Abrahamczyk L
Published: December 2021

Historical masonry arch bridges still form an important part of Croatian transportation network. There are approximately 680 masonry arch bridges and culverts currently being used for railways and roadways. Many of these bridges are relatively old (more than hundred years in most cases) but still in usage. Increasing vehicle load and speeds as well as deterioration due to anthropogenic and environmental influence have highlighted the need for reliable assessment of their service condition and regular maintenance. The aim of this study is to provide a review of existing masonry arch bridges in Croatia. Firstly, a historical review of bridges is given showing the time period in which they were built, indicating the materials and design principles used for their construction. Next, bridge typologies are presented as well as their detailed analysis of geometric characteristics for brickwork bridges. Finally, a short review of damages and their impact on serviceability of bridges is given. This review presents masonry arch bridges in Croatia and the need for reliable method of assessing their service condition in order to provide proper maintenance, repairing and retrofitting.
Push-out tests of shear dowels
Authors: Vanova P , Dubecky D , Kvocak V
Published: December 2021

Continuous shear connectors in a shape of dowels are one of the newer shapes of composite steel-concrete bridges. In this article results of push-out tests of such a dowel with geometry designed at Faculty of Civil Engineering, Technical University of Kosice are presented and compared to the previous research.
Material characteristics of push-out tests
Authors: Vanova P , Orolin P , Dubecky D
Published: December 2021

Two types of push-out tests were carried out at the Centre of Research and Innovation in Construction, the Technical University of Košice - one at a composite based on steel continuous shear connector and the second one at the same connector, however made of glass-laminate material. For further research, the material characteristics of the material used needed to be found. In this article, the material tests performed as well as their results are presented.
Experimental analysis of shear connection effect composite beams with concrete
Authors: Weissova M , Dubecky D , Kvocak V
Published: December 2021

The subject of this research is the analysis of shear connection effect on the fiber glass reinforced composite beams. The research contains the detailed analysis of materials like concrete and fiber glass reinforced composite. The shear connection has been tested by the experiment of push out test run in the Centre of research and innovation in construction of Technical University of Košice. The shear connection has been tested on two types of connectors used on composite beams. The main idea of this research is find out whether it is possible to use the alternative material, which should substitute the steel. The aim of research is to design a type of connector for fiber reinforced composite materials or another composite materials developping in the world of material engineering. The part od research is devoted to the FEM analysis.
The trend of using solar energy of a green intelligent building and thermal energy storage to reduce the energy intensity of the building
Authors: Gorás M , Vranayová Z , Vranay F
Published: December 2021

The trend is to reduce the energy intensity of buildings. Thermal energy storage (TES) is the biggest challenge for buildings. It is a technology that supplies thermal energy by heating or cooling a tank, which then serves for the system in the building. Comparison of hitherto known systems ATES, BTES, PTES and research TTES. The most important factors for the accumulation of thermal energy are capacity (the energy stored in the system - depends on the storage process, the medium, and the size of the system), power (how fast the energy stored in the system can be discharged and charged), efficiency (the ratio of the energy provided to the user to the energy needed to charge the storage system. It accounts for the energy loss during the storage period and the charging/discharging cycle), storage (how long the energy is stored and lasts hours to months), charging and discharging (how much time is needed to charge or discharge the system), and cost (refers to capacity (€/kWh) or power (€/kW) of the TES system and depends on the capital and operation costs of the storage equipment and its lifetime).
A method of shaping an energy-efficient building envelope based on natural patterns in order to achieve save of energy
Authors: Wawrek I , Staňa R
Published: December 2021

This article aims to present an innovative way of designing objects called A method of shaping an energy-efficient building envelope based on natural patterns. The method uses currently available technologies in an unusual way. Digital photogrammetry data are inserted into a process of designing envelope structure of future objects. In the process of construction, this method counts on the use of all the advantages of 3D printing technology. This combination of the use of relatively innovative technologies in the process of design and construction of buildings opens up new possibilities for the design of the building envelope. Consequently, new building envelope shaping options create space for more efficient use of the energy savings associated with the building envelope shape as a building shape factor. The final design solution of the proposed building takes inspiration directly from the environment in which it is to be situated. Final design takes inspiration of its shape from the environment in which it will be built as a future object. As a result, the building works harmoniously and in accordance with the environment in which it was designed. This creates a pleasant ecological environment for its inhabitants and the surrounding area.
Introduction of cold-in-place recycling technology in practice as an innovative tool
Authors: Kovács R , Mandula J
Published: December 2021

Roads exposed to continuous and heavy traffic often shown sight of damage which particularly extend to the underlying layers of roads. Due to the advantages of less raw materials and fossil fuel consumption, lower carbon footprint and the capability of pavement performance improvement enormous effect have been done in the western countries over the past decades. Thanks to the efforts of some construction companies in Slovakia our focus in this paper on the innovation technology of cold-in-place recycling is given. The presumption of success of this innovative technology is the introduction and use of the set of a powerful and interconnected machines. This technology allows the repair of deep defects, rutting and fatigue failure, which cannot be done by surface treatment with significant reducing the impact on the environment, material, and economical savings. Moreover, it enables the repair of deep defects, rutting and fatigue failure, which cannot be done by surface treatment. To promote the widespread application of cold-in-place recycling technology in practice and to monitor the progress of developments, this article has examined and discussed the basic aspects of the use of this technology based on laboratory analyzes of recycled material.
Core–shell bioprinting as a strategy to apply differentiation factors in a spatially defined manner inside osteochondral tissue substitutes
Authors: Kilian David , Cometta Silvia , Bernhardt Anne , Taymour Rania , Golde Jonas , Ahlfeld Tilman , Emmermacher Julia , Gelinsky Michael , Lode Anja
Published: December 2021

One of the key challenges in osteochondral tissue engineering is to define specified zones with varying material properties, cell types and biochemical factors supporting locally adjusted differentiation into the osteogenic and chondrogenic lineage, respectively. Herein, extrusion-based core–shell bioprinting is introduced as a potent tool allowing a spatially defined delivery of cell types and differentiation factors TGF-β3 and BMP-2 in separated compartments of hydrogel strands, and, therefore, a local supply of matching factors for chondrocytes and osteoblasts. Ink development was based on blends of alginate and methylcellulose, in combination with varying concentrations of the nanoclay Laponite whose high affinity binding capacity for various molecules was exploited. Release kinetics of model molecules was successfully tuned by Laponite addition. Core–shell bioprinting was proven to generate well-oriented compartments within one strand as monitored by optical coherence tomography in a non-invasive manner. Chondrocytes and osteoblasts were applied each in the shell while the respective differentiation factors (TGF-β3, BMP-2) were provided by a Laponite-supported core serving as central factor depot within the strand, allowing directed differentiation of cells in close contact to the core. Experiments with bi-zonal constructs, comprising an osteogenic and a chondrogenic zone, revealed that the local delivery of the factors from the core reduces effects of these factors on the cells in the other scaffold zone. These observations prove the general suitability of the suggested system for co-differentiation of different cell types within a zonal construct.
Statistical physics of network structure and information dynamics
Authors: Ghavasieh A , De Domenico M
Published: December 2021

In the last two decades, network science has proven to be an invaluable tool for the analysis of empirical systems across a wide spectrum of disciplines, with applications to data structures admitting a representation in terms of complex networks. On the one hand, especially in the last decade, an increasing number of applications based on geometric deep learning have been developed to exploit, at the same time, the rich information content of a complex network and the learning power of deep architectures, highlighting the potential of techniques at the edge between applied math and computer science. On the other hand, studies at the edge of network science and quantum physics are gaining increasing attention, e.g., because of the potential applications to quantum networks for communications, such as the quantum Internet. In this work, we briefly review a novel framework grounded on statistical physics and techniques inspired by quantum statistical mechanics which have been successfully used for the analysis of a variety of complex systems. The advantage of this framework is that it allows one to define a set of information-theoretic tools which find widely used counterparts in machine learning and quantum information science, while providing a grounded physical interpretation in terms of a statistical field theory of information dynamics. We discuss the most salient theoretical features of this framework and selected applications to protein–protein interaction networks, neuronal systems, social and transportation networks, as well as potential novel applications for quantum network science and machine learning.
Queer Intercultural Communication: Sexuality and Intercultural Communication
Authors: McMickens Taisha , Olzman Miranda Dottie , Calafell Bernadette Marie
Published: December 2021

Queer intercultural communication is the study of sexuality in intercultural communication. It is a critical, interdisciplinary field that explores identity (i.e., race, gender, sexuality, nationality, and class) across political, historical, transnational, and social spheres. Queer intercultural communication is grounded in using an intersectional lens and embodiment, and in understanding the way power functions both systemically and individually. Historically, intercultural communication has lagged in including intersectional works that center on queer and transgender voices, theorizings, and methodologies. Queer intercultural communication has worked to expand the voices that are being centered as a way to theorize about potential and hope. As this work continues, scholarship on sexualities must remain open to broadening discourse, theory, and methodologies that are inclusive of multiple stories that evoke queer possibilities.