bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Milestone in Polish CISG Jurisprudence and Its Significance to the World Trade Community
Authors: Jurewicz Aleksandra
Published: June 2012

This comment analyzes a case from the Polish Supreme Court that, because of its rigorous discussion of many fundamental matters and embodiment of the Court’s effort to make its decision within the framework of the Vienna Convention, serves as a great contribution to the global CISG jurisprudence.
Sharing International Commercial Law across National Boundaries, Festschrift for Albert H. Kritzer on the Occasion of his Eightieth Birthday
Authors: Pansiri Melissa Ann
Published: June 2012

The joint collaboration of Camilla B. Andersen and Ulrich G. Schroeter as editors of the festschrift1 to Albert H. Kritzer on his eightieth birthday succeeds in bringing together international commercial law heavyweights and enlightening commentary on the United Nations Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods (CISG). The work pays homage to a preeminent scholar on the CISG whose scholarship has aided in the uniformity of the application and interpretation of the CISG.
Deleveraging Microfinance: Principles for Managing Voluntary Debt Workouts of Microfinance Institutions
Authors: Burand Deborah
Published: June 2012

Approximately 2.6 billion people, roughly 40 percent of the world’spopulation, live on less than $2 a day. 3 Of these people, 1.4 billion—that is one in four people in the developing world—live in extreme poverty subsisting on less than $1.25 a day. According to recent World Bank estimates, the financial and economic crisis facing the world today is likely to trap another 53 million people in extreme poverty.
Every Seafarer Has a Primary Duty That May Provide the Basis of a Defense in a Personal Injury Action
Authors: Geraghty J Patrick
Published: June 2012

A seafarer injured while in the service of a merchant ocean vessel is accorded three causes of action against his or her employer: 1) Jones Act negligence, 2) the warranty of seaworthiness, and 3) maintenance and cure. The latter two causes of action arise under general maritime law, the first is statutory. This article deals with a defense to a seafarer’s claims for Jones Act negligence and unseaworthiness. This defense, commonly known as the “Primary Duty Rule,” has been restated in numerous variations since its inception. This article examines the history and evolution of the Rule and suggests a restatement of the Rule for continued application in the defense of seafarer personal injury cases.
Revisiting Barter under the CISG
Authors: Horowitz Andrew J
Published: June 2012

As the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (hereinafter “UNCITRAL”) circulated a draft of what eventually became the United Nations Convention on Contracts for the International Sales of Goods (hereinafter “CISG”), it examined the need for uniform law with respect to barter transactions. At that time in 1978, various international organizations were concerned that, while barter transactions were infrequent at the domestic level, such transactions carried growing importance in international trade.
Uniform Application of the International Sales Law/Understanding Uniformity, the Global Jurisconsultorium and Examination and Notification Provisions of the CISG
Authors: Pansiri Melissa Ann
Published: June 2012

As a student at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law, my favorite courses were International Sales and International Business Transactions. The former I appreciated for nourishing my academic interest in the United Nations Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods (CISG), while the latter I appreciated for instilling in me the tools to be a responsible transactions attorney. Learning from professors like Professor Harry Flechtner and Professor Ronald Brand, my profound interest in the CISG grew, and I realized a deep appreciation for scholarly commentary on the CISG. Herein, I discuss a book about the uniform application of the CISG, including obstacles to uniform application of the CISG.
Is 35 U.S.C. § 271(F) Keeping Pace With The Times?: The Law After the Federal Circuit’s Cardiac Pacemakers Decision
Authors: Shuttleworth Lauren
Published: June 2012

In a common business arrangement, an American software company designs software in the United States, then sends the software code abroad where copies are mass-produced and distributed. Prior to the Federal Circuit’s ruling in Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc. v. St. Jude Medical, Inc., the American company could have been found liable for patent infringement under Section 271(f) of the Patent Act if the software mass-produced abroad infringed a United States patent.Cardiac Pacemakers, however, leaves United States patent owners defenseless when the allegedly infringed patent claims are method claims. The background of Cardiac Pacemakers, the Court’s rationales, and the implications of the decision are the subject of this Note.
Remarks on Trade Usages And Business Practices In International Sales Law
Authors: Graffi Leonardo
Published: June 2012

Trade usages and business practices are key elements of international commerce. In their day-to-day activities, traders and business people around the world constantly rely upon trade usages and business practices across a variety of industries. Usages and practices tend to be dignified by the business community with a status equivalent to that of actual law. As a matter of fact, many business persons often tend to regard trade usages and business practices as very powerful tools to ensure the stability of their bargain and, at times, transact business solely based on such usages and practices, withoutany written contract. Due to the importance of this subject, distinguished international legal commentators have often attempted to define trade usages and business practices and, in doing so, they have indeed succeeded at providing a substantial amount of theoretical ammunition for the benefit of the interpreter. What is more challenging, in my opinion, is to understand the interplay (and the related legal and commercial consequences) arising from the application of trade usages and business practices alongside the black letter rules of international conventions and model law instruments, which often refer to usages and practices without defining them.
Penalty Clauses and the CISG
Authors: Graves Jack
Published: June 2012

Commercial agreements often provide for “fixed sums” payable upon a specified breach. Such agreements are generally enforced in civil law jurisdictions. In contrast, the common law distinguishes between “liquidated damages” and “penalty” clauses, enforcing the former, while invalidating the latter as a penalty. The UN Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods (CISG) does not directly address the payment of “fixed sums” as damages, and the validity of “penalty” clauses has, traditionally, been relegated to otherwise applicable domestic national law under CISG Article 4. This traditional orthodoxy has recently been challenged—suggesting that the fate of a penalty clause should be determined by reference to the general principles of the CISG and that such a clause should generally be enforced. The validity of fixed sums, as penalties, is currently under consideration by the CISG Advisory Council, so further exploration of the issue would seem particularly timely. This article examines the basis for the traditional view, along with two distinct challenges to that view—ultimately concluding that these challenges fail to support their respective solutions to the issue and suggesting the continuing vitality of the traditional view.
DERIVATIVES TRADERS DO WHAT, AGAIN?
Authors: Hughes Heather
Published: June 2012

Reviewing   COLLATERAL KNOWLEDGE: LEGAL REASONING IN THE GLOBAL FINANCIAL MARKETS   Written by Annelise Riles
Termitomyces Species from Tanzania, Their Cultural Properties and Unequalled Basidiospores
Authors: Tibuhwa Donatha Damian
Published: June 2012

Termitomyces R. Heim, a basidiomycete fungus lives in a mutualistic symbiosis with termites of the subfamily Macrotermitinae. This study explored the cultural properties and macro-micromorphological characters including scanning electron microscopic studies of ten Termitomyces species collected from different parts of Tanzania. Pure cultures were isolated from the asexual fruit bodies growing on or near the termite mound by tissue culture techniques in three different media Ghosh, Hagem Modess, and Modified Malt Extract Agar. The results showed that Termitomyces aurantiacus (Heim) Heim and Termitomyces striatus Heim have unsmooth basidiospore, the character noted for the first time in this genus, and the two species might be conspecific. In cultures, while micromorphological characters remain undistinguishable between taxa, Macromorphological characters distinguished them in colour of the mat, growth rate, mycelia elevation and advancing zones as well as the mat texture. T. saggitiformis (Kalchbr. & Cooke) D.A. Reid, T. titanicus Pegler & Piearce species are reported for the first time in the country record and key to the studied species is supplied. This study suggests the redefining of the genus by omitting the smooth or adding unsmooth basidiospore character in the genus circumscription.
Divert to ULTRA: Differences in Infused Volumes and Clearance in Two On-Line Hemodiafiltration Treatments
Authors: Panichi Vincenzo , De Ferrari Giacomo , Saffioti Stefano , Sidoti Antonino , Biagioli Marina , Bianchi Stefano , Imperiali Patrizio , Gabbrielli Claudio , Conti Paolo , Patrone Pietro , Falqui Valeria , Rombolà Giuseppe , Mura Carlo , Icardi Andrea , Mulas Donatella , Rosati Alberto , Santori Francesco , Mannarino Antonio , Tomei Valeria , Bertucci Andrea , Steckiph Denis , Palla Roberto
Published: June 2012

Background:

Mixed diffusive-convective dialysis therapies offer greater removal capabilities than conventional dialysis. The aim of this study was to compare two different on-line, post-dilution hemodiafiltration (HDF) treatments with regard to achieved convective volume and middle-molecule dialysis efficiency: standard volume control (sOL-HDF) and automated control of the transmembrane pressure (TMP) (UC-HDF).

Methods:

We enrolled 30 ESRD patients (55.9 ± 14.0 years, 20/10 M/F) in a randomized, prospective, crossover study. The patients received a 3-month period of sOL-HDF followed by UC-HDF for a further 3 months, or vice versa, using the same dialysis machine. In sOL-HDF, fixed exchange volumes were set according to a filtration fraction greater than or equal to 25%. In UC-HDF therapy, the exchanged volume was driven by a biofeedback system controlling the TMP and its set point in a double loop. Patients maintained their treatment time, dialyzer, blood flow rate, and anticoagulant regimen unchanged throughout the study.

Results:

Greater convective volumes were achieved in UC-HDF than in sOL-HDF (23.8 ± 3.9 vs.19.8 ± 4.8 L; p<0.001) with high pre-dialysis Ht value (sOL-HDF 34.0 ± 4.5% and UC-HDF 34.0 ± 4.4%; p = 0.91). The average clearance values of β2m and P were higher in UC-HDF than in sOL-HDF (respectively 123 ± 24 vs. 111 ± 22 ml/min, p<0.002 and 158 ± 26 vs. 152 ± 25 ml/min, p<0.05). Moreover, the UC-HDF mode led to a significantly increased rate of call-free sessions from 88% to 97% (p<0.0001).

Conclusions:

This study showed that the biofeedback module, applied to the automatic control of TMP in on-line HDF, results in higher convective volumes and correspondingly higher β2m and P clearances. By making the HDF treatment more automated and less complex to perform, it significantly reduced the staff workload.
Aortic Root Compliance Influences Hemolysis in Mechanical Heart Valve Prostheses: An In-Vitro Study
Authors: Linde Torsten , Hamilton Kathrin F. , Navalon Elena Cuenca , Schmitz-Rode Thomas , Steinseifer Ulrich
Published: June 2012

Mechanical heart valve prostheses are known to activate coagulation and cause hemolysis. Both are particularly dependent on the leaflet dynamics, which in turn depends on the flow field in the aortic root influenced by the aortic root geometry and its compliance. Compliance reduction of large vessels occurs in aging patients, both in those who have atherosclerotic diseases and those who do not. In this study we investigated the correlation between hemolysis and the compliance of the proximal aorta in a novel, pulsatile in vitro blood tester using porcine blood. Two mechanical heart valves, the St Jude Medical (SJM) bileaflet valve and a trileaflet valve prototype (Triflo) were tested for hemolysis under physiological conditions (120/80 mm Hg, 4.5 l/min, 70 bpm) and using two different tester setups: with a stiff aorta and with a compliant aorta. Valve dynamics were subsequently analyzed via high-speed videos. In the tests with the Triflo valve, the free plasma hemoglobin increased by 13.4 mg/dl for the flexible and by 19.3 mg/dl for the stiff setup during the 3-hour test. The FFT spectra and closing speed showed slight differences for both setups. Free plasma hemoglobin for the SJM valve was up by 22.2 mg/dl in the flexible and 42.7 mg/dl in the stiff setup. Cavitation induced by the higher closing speed might be responsible for this, which is also indicated by the sound spectrum elevation above 16 kHz.
The Effect of Self-Transcendence on Depression in Cognitively Intact Nursing Home Patients
Authors: Haugan Gørill , Innstrand Siw Tone
Published: June 2012

Aims. This study’s aim was to test the effects of self-transcendence on depression among cognitively intact nursing home patients. Background. Depression is considered the most frequent mental disorder among the elderly population. Specifically, the depression rate among nursing home patients is three to four times higher than that among community-dwelling elderly. Therefore, finding new and alternative ways to prevent and decrease depression is of great importance for nursing home patients’ well-being. Self-transcendence is related to spiritual as well as nonspiritual factors, and it is described as a correlate and resource for well-being among vulnerable populations and at the end of life. Methods. A two-factor construct of the self-transcendence scale (interpersonal and intrapersonal) and the hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS) was applied. A sample of 202 cognitively intact nursing home patients in central Norway was selected to respond to the questionnaires in 2008/2009. Results. A hypothesized SEM model demonstrated significant direct relationships and total effects of self-transcendence on depression. Conclusion and Implication for Practice. Facilitating patients’ self-transcendence, both interpersonally and intrapersonally, might decrease depression among cognitively intact nursing home patients.
Proof of Concept to Clinical Confirmation: Evolving Clinical Trial Designs for Targeted Agents
Authors: Finn Laura , Tan Winston
Published: June 2012

No single therapy benefits the majority of patients in the practice of oncology as responses differ even among patients with similar tumor types. The variety of response to therapy witnessed while treating our patients supports the concept of personalized medicine using patients' genomic and biologic information and their clinical characteristics to make informed decisions about their treatment. Personalized medicine relies on identification and confirmation of biologic targets and development of agents to target them. These targeted agents tend to focus on subsets of patients and provide improved clinical outcomes. The continued success of personalized medicine will depend on the expedited development of new agents from proof of concept to confirmation of clinical efficacy.
Ion Transporters and Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Plants
Authors: Brini Faïçal , Masmoudi Khaled
Published: June 2012

Adaptation of plants to salt stress requires cellular ion homeostasis involving net intracellular Na+ and Cl− uptake and subsequent vacuolar compartmentalization without toxic ion accumulation in the cytosol. Sodium ions can enter the cell through several low- and high-affinity K+ carriers. Some members of the HKT family function as sodium transporter and contribute to Na+ removal from the ascending xylem sap and recirculation from the leaves to the roots via the phloem vasculature. Na+ sequestration into the vacuole depends on expression and activity of Na+/H+ antiporter that is driven by electrochemical gradient of protons generated by the vacuolar H+-ATPase and the H+-pyrophosphatase. Sodium extrusion at the root-soil interface is presumed to be of critical importance for the salt tolerance. Thus, a very rapid efflux of Na+ from roots must occur to control net rates of influx. The Na+/H+ antiporter SOS1 localized to the plasma membrane is the only Na+ efflux protein from plants characterized so far. In this paper, we analyze available data related to ion transporters and plant abiotic stress responses in order to enhance our understanding about how salinity and other abiotic stresses affect the most fundamental processes of cellular function which have a substantial impact on plant growth development.
Direct adaptive neural tracking control for a class of stochastic pure‐feedback nonlinear systems with unknown dead‐zone
Authors: Wang Huanqing , Chen Bing , Lin Chong
Published: June 2012

This paper considers the problem of adaptive neural tracking control for a class of nonlinear stochastic pure‐feedback systems with unknown dead zone. Based on the radial basis function neural networks' online approximation capability, a novel adaptive neural controller is presented via backstepping technique. It is shown that the proposed controller guarantees that all the signals of the closed‐loop system are semi‐globally, uniformly bounded in probability, and the tracking error converges to an arbitrarily small neighborhood around the origin in the sense of mean quartic value. Simulation results further illustrate the effectiveness of the suggested control scheme. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and Multiscale Evaluation of LiNbO3‐Containing Silicate Glass‐Ceramics with Efficient Isotropic SHG Response
Authors: Vigouroux Hélène , Fargin Evelyne , Gomez Sonia , Le Garrec Bruno , Mountrichas Grigoris , Kamitsos Efstratios , Adamietz Frédéric , Dussauze Marc , Rodriguez Vincent
Published: June 2012

A study of bulk second harmonic generation (SHG) response of lithium niobium silicate glass‐ceramics is presented. The observed macroscopic SHG signals have an isotropic 3D nature. To interpret this particular nonlinear optical response, a multiscale approach is used in which clear correlations between structure and optical response are characterized from the sub‐micrometer to the millimeter scale. In particular, it is inferred that the radial distribution of the LiNbO3 crystallites in spherulite domains is at the origin of the isotropic bulk second order optical property. It is suggested that spherulitic crystallization in glass‐ceramic is a challenging method to elaborate isotropic nonlinear optical properties in inorganic materials.
Directing Osteogenesis of Stem Cells with Drug‐Laden, Polymer‐Microsphere‐Based Micropatterns Generated by Teflon Microfluidic Chips
Authors: Shi Xuetao , Chen Song , Zhou Jianhua , Yu Haijun , Li Lei , Wu Hongkai
Published: June 2012

Human bone tissue is built in a hierarchical way by assembling various cells of specific functions; the behaviors of these cells in vivo are sophisticatedly regulated. However, the cells in an injured bone caused by tumor or other bone‐related diseases cannot properly perform self‐regulation behaviors, such as specialized differentiation. To address this challenge, a simple one‐step strategy for patterning drug‐laden poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres into grooves by Teflon chips is developed to direct cellular alignment and osteogenic commitment of adipose‐derived stem cells (ADSCs) for bone regeneration. A hydrophilic model protein and a hydrophobic model drug are encapsulated into microsphere‐based grooved micropatterns to investigate the release of the molecules from the PLGA matrix. Both types of molecules show a sustained release with a small initial burst during the first couple of days. Osteogenic differentiated factors are also encapsulated in the micropatterns and the effect of these factors on inducing the osteogenic differentiation of ADSCs is studied. The ADSCs on the drug‐laden micropatterns show stronger osteogenic commitment in culture than those on flat PLGA film or on drug‐free grooved micropatterns cultured under the same conditions. The results demonstrate that a combination of chemical and topographical cues is more effective to direct the osteogenic commitment of stem cells than either is alone. The microsphere‐based groove micropatterns show potential for stem cell research and bone regenerative therapies.
Multifunctional Magnetic Nanoparticles for Synergistic Enhancement of Cancer Treatment by Combinatorial Radio Frequency Thermolysis and Drug Delivery
Authors: Xu Yang , Karmakar Alokita , Heberlein Wolf E. , Mustafa Thikra , Biris Alexandru R. , Biris Alexandru S.
Published: June 2012

Few‐layer, carbon‐coated, iron (C/Fe) magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) were synthesized with controlled sizes ranging from 7 to 9 nm. The additional loading of two anti‐cancer drugs, doxorubicin and erlotinib, was achieved through – stacking onto the carbon shells. Controlled release of the drugs was successfully triggered by radio frequency (RF) heating or pH variation. Based on the experimental results, C/Fe MNPs act as heat‐inducing agents and are able to thermally destroy cancer cells when RF is applied. It was found that the combination of anti‐cancer drugs (in particular a low dose of doxorubicin) and RF treatment demonstrates a synergistic effect in inducing cell death in pancreatic cancer cells. Our findings demonstrate that MNPs can be used as highly efficient multimodal nanocarrier agents for an integrated approach to cancer treatment involving triggered delivery of antineoplastic drugs and RF‐induced thermal therapy.
Rheology of long‐chain branched polypropylene copolymers
Authors: Zulli Fabio , Andreozzi Laura , Passaglia Elisa , Augier Sylvain , Giordano Marco
Published: June 2012

In this work, we provide more insight into the rheological properties of functionalized polypropylene copolymers with modified architectures, which originate long‐chain branching. The evaluation of the average distance between branches and the fraction of long‐chain branch points has been carried out quantitatively, by numerical fitting of experimental data according to a literature model, and the viscoelastic response of the samples has been analyzed in terms of a Carreau‐Yasuda‐like model and Cole–Cole plots. These analyses allowed us to discriminate the viscoelastic behavior of the samples on the basis of their feed composition. Moreover, we were able to highlight direct correlations between viscosity, long‐chain branching level, distance between branching points and functionalization degrees of PP polymers. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Morphological Studies of Lymphatic Labyrinths in the Rat Mesenteric Lymph Node
Authors: Jia Limin , Xie Zunjiang , Zheng Jinhua , Liu Li , He Yan , Liu Fu , He Yechun
Published: June 2012

To supplement and correct the morphological features of lymphatic labyrinths (LLs) in rat mesenteric lymph node, the distribution, morphology and origin of LLs, and cellular elements in LLs, particularly the organization and integrity of the wall of LLs were examined by silver impregnation, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and immunohistochemistry. LLs consisted of labyrinthine tubules and ran through not only the periphery of the deep cortical unit (DCU) but interfollicular cortex. LLs originated at the edge of the center of the DCU and of the follicle. At the site of their origin, the fibers in the wall of LL were continuous with the fibers located in the follicle and the center of DCU. The wall of LLs was a trilaminar membrane: a layer of flattened lymphatic endothelium; a layer of fibroblastic reticular cells; and amorphous substance and collagen fibers sandwiched between the above two layers. Under SEM and TEM, the whole amoeboid lymphocytes were moving through the pores in the wall of LL, which showed that lymphocytes end their journey through the paracortical cord by migrating into LLs. Immunohistochemical lymphatic vessel endothelial hyaluronan receptor‐1 expression was present in cells lining the LLs and intraluminal stellate cells, which may belong to the “sinus endothelial/virgultar cells.” LLs are specific channels that are different from lymphatic sinuses. LL may be regarded as a special part of lymphatic vascular system in lymph nodes. We confirm that LLs are important transport pathway of lymphocytes in lymph nodes. The structural framework of LLs facilitates the migration of lymphocytes. Anat Rec, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Local Quadratic Model Tree with Orthogonal Matching Pursuit (LOQUMOTOMP) Method for Nonlinear System Identification
Authors: Ahmadi Salman , Karrari Mehdi
Published: June 2012

In order to accurately model the behavior of nonlinear systems under different operating conditions, complex structures, such as the Volterra and Wiener series', are often used. The main drawback of such structures is the need for a large number of parameters. In an alternative approach, the input‐output relation of such complex nonlinear systems is described using different local linear models under different operating conditions. Such models also require many local models to maintain the accuracy under different operating conditions. In this paper, both methods are combined and a new iterative method is presented to obtain an accurate model with fewer parameters. To create a more precise model, a choice is made at each iteration of the identification algorithm between increasing the number of local models and increasing the complexity of each local model. Furthermore, to reduce the number of parameters and local models, the most significant regressors are selected by an orthogonal matching pursuit method. In the method proposed, polynomial or linear structure is used for the operating condition of the nonlinear system with more or less complexity. The proposed method has been tested on the experimental data of a hydraulic actuator. The proposed identification method provides a more precise model with fewer parameters than some well‐known nonlinear system identification methods, such as neural networks and the Local Linear Model Tree (LOLIMOT).
Comment on “A Deadlock Prevention Approach for Flexible Manufacturing Systems with Uncontrollable Transitions in Their Petri Net Models”
Authors: Uzam Murat
Published: June 2012

Read the original article: A deadlock prevention approach for flexible manufacturing systems with uncontrollable transitions in their Petri net models
Analytischer Ansatz zur Erfassung von Tragfähigkeitssteigerungen infolge von Schubverstärkungen in Bauteilen aus Brettschichtholz und Brettsperrholz
Authors: Dietsch Philipp , Mestek Peter , Winter Stefan
Published: June 2012

Dieser Beitrag stellt einen analytischen Ansatz zur Berechnung der Tragfähigkeit von Brettschicht‐ bzw. Brettsperrholzbauteilen vor, bei denen stiftförmige Verbindungsmittel als Schubverstärkungen vorliegen. Das Verfahren basiert auf bekannten mechanischen Grundlagen und Werkstoffgesetzen unter Anwendung der Matrizenschreibweise. Es greift die konstruktive Anisotropie der schubverstärkten Querschnitte auf und ermöglicht auch die Erfassung des nachgiebigen Verbundes zwischen den Verstärkungselementen und dem Holzquerschnitt. Nach der Beschreibung der generellen Vorgehensweise folgt ein Vergleich mit experimentellen Untersuchungen. Für Brettsperrholzelemente zeigte sich ein deutlicher, positiver Einfluss einer Schubverstärkung in Form von selbstbohrenden Schrauben. Für mit selbstbohrenden Schrauben schubverstärkte Brettschichtholzbauteile ergaben sowohl das analytische Verfahren wie auch die Versuche nur eine geringe Erhöhung der Schubsteifigkeit und Schubfestigkeit.

Analytical approach to determine the increase in load‐carrying capacity due to shear reinforcement in structural elements from glued‐laminated and cross‐laminated timber

This article presents an analytical approach to determine the load‐carrying capacity of timber elements from glued‐laminated or cross‐laminated timber, featuring shear reinforcements like self‐tapping screws. Using matrix format, the approach is based on common theoretical concepts and constitutive equations for material properties. It uses the structural anisotropy of the cross‐sections with shear reinforcement, also enabling to incorporate the semi‐rigid composite action between the reinforcement and the wood material. The description of the general approach is followed by a comparison with experimental data from tests on both timber products. It is shown that shear reinforcements have a distinct positive influence on cross‐laminated timber elements. Shear reinforcement by self‐tapping screws in glued‐laminated timber elements does in contrast only result in a small increase in shear stiffness and shear strength.
Untersuchungen zur Festigkeit von Robinienholz
Authors: Rug Wolfgang , Eichbaum Guido
Published: June 2012

Der Beitrag beschreibt Untersuchungen zur Festigkeit von Robinienholz (Robinia pseudoacacia). Diese sehr dauerhafte Holzart kann zurzeit nicht im Bauwesen eingesetzt werden, da sie in den Berechnungsnormen nicht geregelt ist. Die Auswertung früherer und eigener Untersuchungen zeigt eine Einordnung dieser Holzart, sortiert nach den Regeln der DIN 4074‐5:2008, in die Festigkeitsklassen D50 bis D70 nach DIN 1052:2008, Tabelle F.7 bzw. DIN EN 338:2010.

Investigations to determine the strength of false acacia wood

This paper describes investigations to determine the strength of false acacia wood. At present, this kind of very durable timber can not get used in building practice, because there are no rules in the German timber design codes. The results permit a classification in the strength classes D50 to D70 according to the Timber design Code DIN 1052:2008, Table F.7 or to the European standard EN 338:2010.
China – Warum eigentlich?
Authors: Plieninger Sven
Published: June 2012

Seit vielen Jahren boomt die Bauwirtschaft in China. Mag man den Zahlen glauben, werden in Zukunft 50 % aller neuen Bauten der Welt in China errichtet. Eine unglaubliche Chance, so meint man. Doch nur wer in den vergangenen Jahren seriös und auf hohem technischen Standard geplant hat, belastbare Beziehungen aufgebaut und die Zusammenarbeit mit den chinesischen Planungskollegen gepflegt und nicht diktiert hat, wird in Zukunft erfolgreich sein können. schlaich bergermann und partner plant seit 1999 Projekte in China und ist in Shanghai mit einem Zweigbüro vertreten.

China – Why actually?

For many years the construction industry in China is booming. Believing in current expectations 50% of all new buildings to be erected in the world will be built in China. An incredible chance, isn't it!? But only those who have planned seriously and at a high technical level, who built and maintained durable relationships to Chinese colleagues, and who did not just dictate their own ideas, will be successful in the future. schlaich bergermann und partner is working on projects in China since 1999 and is represented in Shanghai with a branch office.
Ingenieurtätigkeit im Ausland
Authors: Jäppelt Ulrich , Hilgenstock Friedrich
Published: June 2012

Deutsche Ingenieure genießen weltweit einen exzellenten Ruf. Neben dem Architekturexport der heutigen Zeit hat gerade der Export deutscher Ingenieurdienstleistungen eine lange Tradition. Das Unternehmen WTM Engineers kann hier auf über 50 Jahre Erfahrung in der Planung und Betreuung von großen Ingenieurbauwerken im Ausland zurückblicken.

Am Beispiel des Silobaus werden in dem folgenden Beitrag die Erfahrungen aus den Auslandsaktivitäten zusammengefasst und die Besonderheiten bei der Planung im Ausland an einem aktuellen Bauvorhaben in Kuwait aufgezeigt:

Um Platz für ein neues Großsilo zu schaffen, mussten zunächst auf dem südlich des Zentrums von Kuwait‐City gelegenen Geländes der Kuwait Flour Mills & Bakeries (KFM) bestehende Anlagen unter laufendem Betrieb zurückgebaut werden.

Die neue Anlage besteht u. a. aus einem ca. 70 m hohen, tief gegründeten Silogebäude mit einem Fassungsvermögen von 150 000 t Getreide. Das Maschinenhaus besitzt eine Höhe von 80 m. Die Anlage mit ihren Grundabmessungen von ca. 50 m × 90 m stellt damit die größte dieser Art in der Region dar.

Bauweise, Konstruktion und Terminplan wurden an die örtlichen Bedingungen, wie Mittagstemperaturen von über 50 °C, tägliche Verkehrssperrungen und durchgehender Betrieb der Mühle, angepasst.

Engineering abroad – Design of a silo complex in Kuwait City

German engineers have an excellent reputation worldwide. In addition to today's export of architectural design, there is a particularly long tradition of exporting German engineering services. WTM Engineers look back on more than 50 years of experience in planning and supervising large‐scale engineering structures abroad. In this article, the experiences gained from their international activities are summarized for the area of silo construction, and the particularities of planning abroad are illustrated using the example of a grain and flour silo facility currently under construction in Kuwait:

On the premises of Kuwait Flour Mills & Bakeries (CUFM), situated in the port area south of Kuwait City centre, existing structures were demolished without interruption of operations on the premises, in order to create space for new facilities.

These new facilities comprise, among other structures, silos with pile foundations and a height of approx. 70 m, built to accommodate 150 000 t of grain. The headhouse has a height of 80 m. With its footprint of approx. 50 m × 90 m, the facility as a whole is the largest of its kind in the region.

The construction methods and schedule as well as the structural design were adapted to local conditions, such as temperatures of more than 50 °C at noon, daily stoppage of traffic and non‐stop operation of the mill.
Konstruktive und brandschutztechnische Untersuchungen von Rippendecken in Holz‐Beton‐Verbundbauweise
Authors: Becker Wieland , Götz Tobias
Published: June 2012

Der Beitrag befasst sich mit durchgeführten Untersuchungen zum Themenkomplex Holz‐Beton‐Verbunddecken (HBV) als Rippenkonstruktionen. Dabei wird zunächst auf die Thematik großer Anfangsverformungen im Herstellprozess eingegangen und ein praxisnahes Berechnungsmodell zur Ermittlung einer planmäßigen Überhöhung vorgestellt. Weiter werden ein innovatives Herstellverfahren sowie eine Auflagerausbildung (Hochhängung) einachsig gespannter HBV‐Deckenelemente erläutert. In diesem Zusammenhang wurden Brandversuche an drei Probekörpern durchgeführt. Anlass der Untersuchungen war eine Schulbauerweiterung in Linz/A, bei welcher die Nachweise zur Hochhängung und zum Brandverhalten von den ausführenden Firmen zu erbringen waren. Die Brandversuche wurden am Institut für Hochbau und Technologie der Technischen Universität Wien durchgeführt.

Structural and fire‐technical investigation of the use of rib‐floor elements in wood‐concrete‐composite

The paper describes the structural and fire‐technical investigation of the use of rib‐floor elements in wood‐concrete‐composite (WCC). At first, the problem of distortion in the first stage of the manufacturing process is discussed and a numerical design model for calculating the level of distortion is presented. Further a new manufacturing‐process and a new bearing‐design for uniaxial WCC rib‐floor‐elements is described. In this context fire‐technical investigations and tests were conducted. The reason for these investigations was the use of WCC rib‐floor‐elements for the extension of a school building in Linz/A, where the fire‐safety of the new bearing construction had to be certified. The fire‐safety tests were carried out at the Institute of Building construction and Technology at the Technical University of Vienna.
No effects of a single 3G UMTS mobile phone exposure on spontaneous EEG activity, ERP correlates, and automatic deviance detection
Authors: Trunk Attila , Stefanics Gábor , Zentai Norbert , Kovács‐Bálint Zsófia , Thuróczy György , Hernádi István
Published: June 2012

Potential effects of a 30 min exposure to third generation (3G) Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) mobile phone‐like electromagnetic fields (EMFs) were investigated on human brain electrical activity in two experiments. In the first experiment, spontaneous electroencephalography (sEEG) was analyzed (n = 17); in the second experiment, auditory event‐related potentials (ERPs) and automatic deviance detection processes reflected by mismatch negativity (MMN) were investigated in a passive oddball paradigm (n = 26). Both sEEG and ERP experiments followed a double‐blind protocol where subjects were exposed to either genuine or sham irradiation in two separate sessions. In both experiments, electroencephalograms (EEG) were recorded at midline electrode sites before and after exposure while subjects were watching a silent documentary. Spectral power of sEEG data was analyzed in the delta, theta, alpha, and beta frequency bands. In the ERP experiment, subjects were presented with a random series of standard (90%) and frequency‐deviant (10%) tones in a passive binaural oddball paradigm. The amplitude and latency of the P50, N100, P200, MMN, and P3a components were analyzed. We found no measurable effects of a 30 min 3G mobile phone irradiation on the EEG spectral power in any frequency band studied. Also, we found no significant effects of EMF irradiation on the amplitude and latency of any of the ERP components. In summary, the present results do not support the notion that a 30 min unilateral 3G EMF exposure interferes with human sEEG activity, auditory evoked potentials or automatic deviance detection indexed by MMN. Bioelectromagnetics 34:31–42, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Entwicklung und Validierung eines allgemeinen Rechenverfahrens für Stahlbetonstützen aus hochfestem Beton unter Brandbeanspruchung
Authors: Huismann Sven , Korzen Manfred , Rogge Andreas
Published: June 2012

Ausgehend von einer kritischen Analyse der Materialkennwerte für normalfesten (NFB) und hochfesten Beton (HFB) im Eurocode 2 wurden in grundlegenden Untersuchungen an der BAM exemplarisch für einen HFB die thermomechanischen Materialkennwerte bestimmt, um auf der Basis eines geeigneten Materialmodells das Verhalten von Stahlbetonstützen aus HFB unter Brandbeanspruchung zu simulieren. Die Validierung des Modells erfolgte mittels großmaßstäblicher Brandversuche an belasteten Stahlbetonstützen aus dem gleichen HFB wie in den Materialuntersuchungen. Es konnte gezeigt werden, dass die Festigkeit als charakteristischer Parameter des Materialmodells zwingend auf der Basis instationärer Versuche – und nicht aus stationären Versuchen wie bei NFB üblich – bestimmt werden muss. Mit den in vorgeschlagenen Materialbeziehungen für HFB wird das Tragverhalten der untersuchten Stützen dagegen deutlich überschätzt, was sich in den numerischen Simulationen insbesondere durch zu geringe Verformungen äußert.

Development and Validation of an Advanced Calculation Model for High Strength Concrete Columns Subjected to Fire Loading

Following a critical analysis of the material parameters of normal strength (NSC) and high strength concrete (HSC) presented in Eurocode 2 the thermo‐mechanical material parameters of one representative HSC were identified. Using these parameters and based on an appropriate material model the behavior of HSC columns was simulated. The validation of the model was realized through real scale fire resistance tests on loaded columns of the same type of HSC as in the material identification tests. It was found that the strength as a characteristic parameter of the material model has to be identified on the basis of transient creep tests and not of stationary tests, respectively as realized usually for NSC. It could be shown that the structural behavior of the tested columns is overestimated if the numerical simulations are based on the material properties of HSC as proposed in. This feature is expressed especially through insufficient displacements.
Die Großmarkthalle Frankfurt a. M.
Authors: Hankers Christoph , Schmidt Heinz‐Günter , Matzdorff Dirk
Published: June 2012

Die denkmalgeschützte Großmarkthalle in Frankfurt am Main stellte zum Zeitpunkt der Fertigstellung im Jahre 1928 den weltweit größten stützenfrei überspannten Hallenbau aus Eisenbeton dar. Das charakteristische Tonnengewölbe der Halle besteht aus 15 nur wenige Zentimeter dicken Tonnenschalen. Realisierbar wurde der Entwurf durch das Zeiss‐Dywidag Konstruktionsprinzip in Kombination mit dem Spritzbetonverfahren. Die Großmarkthalle wird in den Neubau für die Europäische Zentralbank (EZB) integriert und infolgedessen instand gesetzt. In diesem Beitrag wird über die historische Konstruktion, das damals wie heute vorteilhafte Spritzbetonverfahren und die derzeitige Instandsetzung der Tonnenschalen berichtet.
Wien Hauptbahnhof – Mehr als ein Bahnhof
Authors: Engel Judith
Published: June 2012

Im Projekt “Wien Hauptbahnhof – Bahninfrastruktur und Verkehrsstation” entsteht auf etwa 50 ha Fläche eine neue Bahnanlage. Alle betrieblichen Funktionen im Großraum Wien werden völlig neu organisiert und auf höchstem technischem Standard geplant. Auf den Flächen ehemaliger Frachtenbahnhöfe entstehen im Zuge des Projekts Anlagen für eine moderne und effiziente Betriebsführung. Das Herzstück des Projekts ist die Verkehrsstation mit ansprechender und barrierefreier Architektur.

Der Bahnhof wird als Durchgangsbahnhof die beiden bis 2009 bestehenden Kopfbahnhöfe Süd‐ und Ostbahnhof ersetzen und damit eine durchgehende Bahnverbindung durch Wien bzw. Ostösterreich schaffen. Gemeinsam mit den Projekten auf der Westbahnstrecke (insbesondere Lainzer Tunnel) wird mit Inbetriebnahme des Wiener Hauptbahnhofes ein leistungsfähiger Schienenknotenpunkt aller Himmelsrichtungen in Wien entstehen. Damit ist der Hauptbahnhof Wien auch für die europäische TEN (Transeuropäische Netze) Achse 17 im Abschnitt Salzburg bis Bratislava von großer Bedeutung.

Das Projekt Wien Hauptbahnhof ist aber weit mehr als ein Bahnhof. Rund um die zukünftige Bahnanlage entsteht ein neuer Stadtteil mit ca. 55 ha Fläche und rund 8 km neuen Straßen. Die Stadt Wien als Projektpartner errichtet die städtische Infrastruktur (Ver‐ und Entsorgungsleitungen, Parkanlage, Straßen, öffentliche Verkehrsmittel, Schulen, etc.), private Investoren errichten Büros, Wohnungen und Geschäfts‐ bzw. Gewerbeflächen.

Besondere Bedeutung kommt – neben den technischen Herausforderungen – im Projekt der Öffentlichkeitsarbeit und Bürgerbeteiligung zu. Schon frühzeitig wurde im Projekt diese Tätigkeit aufgenommen, um die Vielzahl von Betroffenen und Beteiligten des Projekts rechtzeitig einzubinden.
DECREASING SELF‐INJURIOUS BEHAVIOR AND FADING SELF‐RESTRAINT IN A STUDENT WITH AUTISM AND TOURETTE SYNDROME
Authors: Banda Devender R. , McAfee James K. , Hart Stephanie L.
Published: June 2012

This clinical case study was conducted with a student diagnosed with autism and Tourette syndrome who displayed severe self‐injurious behavior (SIB). Behavioral assessments and observations suggested that the student demonstrated less SIB during a self‐restraint, where he wrapped his hands tightly in a large blanket. We used an ABAB design with fading to reduce the size of the blanket to keep rates of SIB low. In addition, we also used a fixed interval reinforcement schedule and extinction during the intervention/restraint phases. Results indicated that the student maintained near‐zero rates of SIB for 6 months after use of the blanket was eliminated. Results and implications for practice and future research are discussed. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Method to assemble and integrate biochemical pathways into the chloroplast genome of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Noor‐Mohammadi Samaneh , Pourmir Azadeh , Johannes Tyler W.
Published: June 2012

Recombinant protein expression in the chloroplasts of green algae has recently become more routine; however, the heterologous expression of multiple proteins or complete biosynthetic pathways remains a significant challenge. Here, we show that a modified DNA Assembler approach can be used to rapidly assemble multiple‐gene biosynthetic pathways in yeast and then integrate these assembled pathways at a site‐specific location in the chloroplast genome of the microalgal species Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. As a proof of concept, this method was used to successfully integrate and functionally express up to three reporter proteins (AphA6, AadA, and GFP) in the chloroplast of C. reinhardtii. An analysis of the relative gene expression of the engineered strains showed significant differences in the mRNA expression levels of the reporter genes and thus highlights the importance of proper promoter/untranslated region selection when constructing a target pathway. This new method represents a useful genetic tool in the construction and integration of complex biochemical pathways into the chloroplast genome of microalgae and should aid current efforts to engineer algae for biofuels production and other desirable natural products. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2012; 109: 2896–2903. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Confined 3D microenvironment regulates early differentiation in human pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Giobbe Giovanni G. , Zagallo Monica , Riello Massimo , Serena Elena , Masi Giulia , Barzon Luisa , Di Camillo Barbara , Elvassore Nicola
Published: June 2012

The therapeutic potential of human pluripotent stem (hPS) cells is threatened, among various problems, by the difficulty to homogenously direct cell differentiation into specific lineages. The transition from hPSC into committed differentiated cells is accompanied by secretome activity, remodeling of extracellular matrix and self‐organization into germ layers. In this work, we aimed to investigate how different three‐dimensional microenvironments regulate the early differentiation of the three germ layers in human embryonic stem (hES) cells derived embryoid bodies. In particular, a permeable, biocompatible, hydrogel microwell array was specifically designed for recreating a confined niche in which EB secreted molecules accumulate in accordance with hydrogel diffusional cut‐off. Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching technique was performed to accurately evaluate hydrogel permeability, mesh size and diffusional cutoff for soluble molecules. Three different culture conditions of EB culture were analyzed: suspension, confinement in microwells of width/depth ratio 1:1 and 1:2. Results show that EBs cultured in microwells are viable and have comparable average size after 8 days culture. Whole genome microarrays show that significative differential gene expression was observed between suspension and confined EBs culture. In particular, EBs culture in microwells promotes the expression of genes involved in pattern specification processes, brain development, ectoderm and endoderm differentiation. On the contrary, suspension EBs express instead genes involved in mesoderm specification and heart development. These results suggest that local accumulation of EBs secreted molecules drives differentiation patterns, as confirmed by immunofluorescence of germ layer markers, in hydrogel confined EB culture from both hES cells and human induced pluripotent stem (hiPS) cells. Our findings highlight an additional potential role of biomaterial in controlling hPSC differentiation through secreted factor niche specification. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2012; 109: 3119–3132. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.