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This study investigates the effects of harmful bearing currents on the service life of rolling bearings and introduces a model to predict service life as a function of surface roughness. Harmful bearing currents, resulting from electrical discharges, can cause significant surface damage, reducing the operational lifespan of bearings. This study involves comprehensive experiments to quantify the extent of electrical stress caused by these currents. For this purpose, four series of tests with different electrical stress levels were carried out and the results of their service lives were compared with each other. Additionally, a novel model to correlate the service life of rolling bearings with varying degrees of surface roughness caused by electrical discharges was developed. The basis is the internationally recognized method of DIN ISO 281, which was extended in the context of this study. The findings show that the surface roughness continues to increase as the electrical load increases. In theory, this in turn leads to a deterioration in lubrication conditions and a reduction in service life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rainfall intensity and slope soil permeability influence rainfall infiltration and therefore play an important role in deciding the failure mode of rainfall-induced landslides. To investigate the combined effect of rainfall intensity and soil permeability on slope failure mechanisms, a total of 23 model slope tests were performed. Four different sands with permeabilities spanning two orders of magnitude were used to form the sand slope and artificial rainfalls with 9 different intensities were simulated with a calibrated raining device. A combination of photography and soil moisture content measurements was adopted to study the mechanisms of different modes of slope failures occurred within the test series. It is shown that the failure mode of slope transits from retrogressive failure to surface slide and to flow slide with the increase of rainfall intensity. Because rainfall largely transformed to surface runoff in tests with very small slope permeability (e.g., < 7 × 10−6 m/s), these slopes failed due to surface scour and erosion. Except for these tests where surface runoff was dominant, the failure mode of soil slope is controlled by the soil resistance to shearing and flow when the failure occurs, which is in turn controlled by the water content reached in the main slope body at the onset of failure (ωf) and the soil water characteristics. ωf increases with the increase of rainfall intensity and the decrease of soil permeability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reinforced concrete dapped-end connections are susceptible to formation of inclined cracks at the reentrant corner under service conditions. As these connections also work with high shear stresses, they require a high amount of reinforcement to ensure sufficient load-bearing capacity. To deepen the understanding of this topic, an experimental campaign of eight large-scale dapped-end connections featuring diagonal reinforcement is presented. These specimens, which are among the largest available in the literature, are similar in size to the dapped ends typically used in bridges. The test series captures both flexural and shear failures of dapped ends. The crack displacements, crack patterns, and elongation of main reinforcement are reported, with 56 continuous measurements of deformations. The test results of this study are used in conjunction with a similar study on specimens with orthogonal reinforcement to investigate the impact of reinforcement layout. For the same amount of dapped-end reinforcement, specimens with diagonal reinforcement are considerably stronger than the corresponding connections with orthogonal reinforcement. For both reinforcement layouts, the crack widths exceeded typical code provisions under service conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is a well-established manufacturing method for producing both prototype and functional components. This study investigates the mechanical properties of FDM components by material and process-related influencing variables. Tensile tests were conducted on seven different materials in their raw filament form, two of which were fiber-reinforced, to analyze their material-related influence. To cover a wide range from standard to advanced materials relevant for load-carrying components as well as their respective variations, polylactic acid (PLA), 30% wood-fiber-reinforced PLA, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate (PC), a blend of ABS and PC, Nylon, and 30% glass-fiber-reinforced Nylon were selected. The process-related influencing variables were studied using the following process parameters: layer thickness, nozzle diameter, build orientation, nozzle temperature, infill density and pattern, and raster angle. The first test series revealed that the addition of wood fibers significantly worsened the mechanical behavior of PLA due to the lack of fiber bonding to the matrix and significant pore formation. The polymer blend of ABS and PC only showed improvements in stiffness. Significant strength and stiffness improvements were found by embedding glass fibers in Nylon, despite partially poor fiber–matrix bonding. The materials with the best properties were selected for the process parameter analysis. When examining the impact of layer thickness on part strength, a clear correlation was evident. Smaller layer thicknesses resulted in higher strength, while stiffness did not appear to be affected. Conversely, larger nozzle diameters and lower nozzle temperatures only positively impacted stiffness, with little effect on strength. The part orientation did alter the fracture behavior of the test specimens. Although an on-edge orientation resulted in higher stiffness, it failed at lower stresses. Higher infill densities and infill patterns aligned with the load direction led to the best mechanical results. The raster angle had a significant impact on the behavior of the printed bodies. An alternating raster angle resulted in lower strengths and stiffness compared to a unidirectional raster angle. However, it also caused significant stretching due to the rotation of the beads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the influence of four different process parameters on hot gas welding of CF/epoxy fiber composites functionalized with a PA6 thermoplastic film is investigated. Additional experiments are carried out on specimens adorned with triangular beads of coupling material that are printed onto the plates, ensuring extra material within the joining zone. This approach offers a great advantage for compensating geometric tolerances. The parameters considered are common process parameters for regular two-step processes: Heating element temperature (THE), heating time (HT), welding force (F) and welding time (HTF). The design of experiments (DoE) is planned according to the Taguchi method. An orthogonal array is used to set up the experimental plan. Three factor levels of each welding parameter are considered. The test series are carried out with two sample variants. In the second sample variant, additional thermoplastic material is placed in the joining zone. The strength of the welded joints is investigated by tensile shear tests according to DIN EN 1465. The results show that the welding force has the greatest influence on the welding strength. Heating times of 20 s were found to be optimal. Within the first sample variant, a saturation behavior of the welding force can be observed at 500 N. Higher heating element temperatures (500 °C) and welding forces (1165 N) are advantageous using additional material. High welding temperatures result in a negative effect on the interdiffusivity of the polymer chains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data on state-of-the-art battery electric vehicles are crucial to academia; however, these data are not published due to non-disclosure policies in the industry. As a result, simulation models and their analyses are based on assumptions or insider information. To fill this information gap, we present a comprehensive analysis of the electric powertrain of a Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus (SR+) from 2020 with lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells, focusing on the overall range. On the vehicle level, we observe the resulting range in multiple test scenarios, tracing the energy path from source to sink by conducting different test series on the vehicle dynamometer and through alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) charging measurements. In addition to absolute electric range tests in different operating scenarios and electric and thermal operation strategies on the vehicle level, we analyze the energy density and the power unit's efficiency on the component level. These tests are performed through procedures on the chassis dynamometer as well as efficiency analysis and electric characterization tests in charge/discharge scenarios. This study includes over 1 GB of attached measurement data on the battery pack and vehicle level from the lab to the real-world environment available as open-source data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies were confined mostly to the deterioration of concrete structures under a single deteriorating factor, such as chloride ingress only or carbonation only, although the real environment may be a combination of such factors. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to explore the influence of carbonation on chloride penetration in concrete structures. Several series of concrete specimens were tested. The test results indicate that the chloride penetration is more pronounced when the carbonation process is combined with the chloride ingress. It is also shown that the ratio of water-soluble chloride to the acid-soluble chloride content is higher for the case of the carbonated test series than the case of the normal noncarbonated test series. This may cause a more vulnerable situation to the corrosion of steel bars when chloride ingress is combined with carbonation. This study allows for a more realistic assessment of durability for concrete structures that are subjected to a combined environment of chlorides and carbonation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-dimensional photographic documentation is a substantial part of post-mortem examinations for legal investigations. Additional three-dimensional surface documentation has been shown to assist in the visualization of findings and contribute to the reconstruction of the sequence of events. However, 2D photo documentation and, especially, 3D surface documentation, are time-consuming procedures that require specially trained personnel. In this study a 3D imaging system, called VirtoScan-on-Rails, was developed to automate and facilitate 3D surface documentation for photo documentation in autopsy suites. The imaging system was built to quickly acquire photogrammetric image sets of whole bodies during different stages of external and internal examinations. VirtoScan-on-Rails was set up in the autopsy suite of the Zurich Institute of Forensic Medicine at the University of Zurich (Zurich, Switzerland). The imaging system is based on a movable frame that carries a multi-camera array. Data quality and the applicability of the system were analyzed and evaluated within two test series. Up to 200 overlapping photographic images were acquired at consecutive image-capturing positions over a distance of approximately 2000 mm. The image-capturing process took 1 min and 23 s to acquire a set of 200 images for one side of the body. During test series one and two, 53 photogrammetric image sets taken from 31 forensic cases were successfully reconstructed. VirtoScan-on-Rails is an automated, fast and easy-to-use 3D imaging setup for autopsy suits. It facilitates documenting bodies during different stages of forensic examinations and allows standardizing the procedure of photo documentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on evaluation of a preliminary standard patch test series for the screening of dental materials. Hypersensitivity to various dental materials has been reported in the literature for many years. This may be related to an increased awareness and recognition of the phenomenon, but also to the introduction of an increased number of materials with allergenic properties. Intraoral testing systems have been tried. In this case epicutanous patch tests are the most commonly used. Patch tests were conducted using dental materials. Positive allergic skin reactions were discovered in majority of the patients.

In this paper, a concept for an anthropomorphic replacement hand cast with silicone with an integrated sensory feedback system is presented. In order to construct the personalized replacement hand, a 3D scan of a healthy hand was used to create a 3D-printed mold using computer-aided design (CAD). To allow for movement of the index and middle fingers, a motorized orthosis was used. Information about the applied force for grasping and the degree of flexion of the fingers is registered using two pressure sensors and one bending sensor in each movable finger. To integrate the sensors and additional cavities for increased flexibility, the fingers were cast in three parts, separately from the rest of the hand. A silicone adhesive (Silpuran 4200) was examined to combine the individual parts afterwards. For this, tests with different geometries were carried out. Furthermore, different test series for the secure integration of the sensors were performed, including measurements of the registered information of the sensors. Based on these findings, skin-toned individual fingers and a replacement hand with integrated sensors were created. Using Silpuran 4200, it was possible to integrate the needed cavities and to place the sensors securely into the hand while retaining full flexion using a motorized orthosis. The measurements during different loadings and while grasping various objects proved that it is possible to realize such a sensory feedback system in a replacement hand. As a result, it can be stated that the cost-effective realization of a personalized, anthropomorphic replacement hand with an integrated sensory feedback system is possible using 3D scanning and 3D printing. By integrating smaller sensors, the risk of damaging the sensors through movement could be decreased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the increased recognition of pediatric allergic contact dermatitis and lack of patch testing consensus in children, we present a minimum basic 20-allergen North American pediatric series, for screening children ages 6-12 with suspected contact allergy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the load-to-failure values of different ceramic CAD/CAM implant crown materials with drilled screw-access holes with and without cyclic loading applied. Materials and Methods: Forty zirconia abutments with a titanium base were pre-loaded onto implants to support maxillary right first premolar crowns milled from four different CAD/CAM ceramic materials (zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate, hybrid ceramic, lithium disilicate, and zirconia; n = 10 each). After cementing the crowns, the screw-access channels were prepared by drilling through the occlusal surfaces. Half of the specimens were subjected to cyclic loading for 5 million cycles at 2 Hz (n = 5/material). After cyclic loading, vertical loads were applied until failure. The load-to-failure values of all crowns were recorded and statistically analyzed. Two-way ANOVA was used with restricted maximum likelihood estimation and Tukey-Kramer adjustments (α = .05). Results: During cyclic loading, the zirconia abutment under one lithium disilicate specimen cracked at 2 million cycles, and a zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate crown also fractured. Results for the load-to-failure test series showed statistical differences between the materials. Zirconia resulted in significantly higher failure loads when compared to the other materials (P < .001). Cyclic loading did not significantly affect the load-to-failure values. Conclusion: Cyclic loading did not significantly influence the load to failure of any of the materials tested. Zirconia crowns with drilled screw access channels cemented on zirconia abutments with a titanium base had higher load-to-failure values compared to the other ceramic crown materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Although many arthrometers have been developed to assess anterior knee laxity, reliability and diagnostic accuracy of these devices are still debated. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the validity of a new arthrometer in the outpatient setting, with the hypothesis that it had good validity in terms of reliability and diagnostic accuracy. Methods: Seventy-eight subjects (39 with ACL injury and 39 with normal ACL) were tested. ATT was assessed by means of the Lachman test at 30° of flexion with a new testing device (BLU-DAT) under three different loading conditions: 7 kg (69 N), 9 kg (88 N) and maximum (MMT). The tests were performed on both knees to obtain SSD. In the ACL injury group, the tests were performed by two examiners and one of them repeated a second test series. Inter- and intra-observer reliability were assessed with the intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) for the average SSD measures. In the normal-ACL group, the analysis was performed with the same testing setup. Side-to-side difference measures of the two groups at every loading condition were compared by Student's t test. Data of test series were dichotomized based on the threshold value of 3-mm SSD as pathological ATT and 2 × 2 contingency tables were used to assess diagnostic accuracy. Results: The ICCs for intra-observer reliability at 7-kg (69 N), 9-kg (88 N) and MMT measurements were 0.781, 0.855 and 0.913, respectively. The ICC for inter-observer reliability at 7-kg (69 N), 9-kg (88 N) and MMT measurements were 0.701, 0.845 and 0.834, respectively. Comparison between the two groups showed a significant mean difference ranging from 3.4 mm for 7-kg (69 N) load to 4.6 mm for MMT. Overall accuracy ranged from 84.6% for 7-kg load to 98.7% for MMT. Conclusion: The BLU-DAT has proven to be an instrument with good intra- and inter-observer reliability and very good accuracy in the diagnosis of ACL injuries in the outpatient setting. So, the BLU-DAT can be a new useful tool in everyday clinical practice to assist in the diagnosis of ACL injury. Level of evidence: II. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cross laminated timber (CLT), with its typical orthogonal layering and exposure to out-of-plane bending, develops inherent rolling shear stresses. These stresses need to be checked during the ultimate limit state design process. With the ongoing revision of Eurocode 5, a discussion regarding the characteristic value of the rolling shear strength of CLT has arisen. One obstacle in the discussion is seen in the lack of harmonized regulations concerning how to determine rolling shear properties. This circumstance manifests in the greatly diverging test results of different institutions testing the rolling shear strength. The paper at hand aims to propose a candidate for such harmonized regulations. To achieve this, the most common test setups, such as the inclined shear test, three- and four-point bending tests, etc., were numerically and experimentally investigated. Within the numerical investigations, a comparison of the most common calculation methods (Timoshenko beam theory, modified γ-method, Shear Analogy Method, and Finite Element Analysis) for evaluating rolling shear stresses was included. In the experimental program, parameters such as the specimen width, number, and thickness of the cross layer(s), shear length, optional reinforcement against the stresses perpendicular to the grain, and the overall test setup were varied. It was found that the used test setups themselves and the area of the cross layer(s) (shear length, number, and thickness of the cross layer(s)) have a major impact on the rolling shear strength. In contrast, no effect was found from the calculation methods. Based on these findings and on a database of approx. 300 four-point bending rolling shear tests on CLT specimens from five well-established CLT manufacturers, a model for the regulation of the rolling shear strength of CLT is proposed, in combination with a corresponding four-point bending test setup. Afterwards, with two additionally conducted four-point bending test series, the proposed model is successfully validated. The conclusions and recommendations in respect to the test setup (four-point bending), evaluation procedure (Timoshenko beam theory), reference characteristic rolling shear strength, and the model, which allows adapting the reference rolling shear strength to individual conditions, are seen as a worthy basis for a more objective discussion on this topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The residual shear strength on failure plane is a crucial parameter to be estimated for analysis of an active landslide. This strength must be determined precisely to build a reliable theoretical model for calculations. The multi-reversal direct-shear test is a practical method to determine this shear strength in laboratory due to wider availability of apparatus. The shearing rate is among the factors that significantly affect the precision of test results for clay specimens. However, limits for this rate are yet to be clarified to shorten the duration of multi-reversal direct-shear tests. In this study, two tests series at different shearing rates were performed to investigate the effect of shearing rate on the residual strength of highly plastic clay sample recovered from a landslide area in Northern Turkey. The shearing rates were set to 0.024 mm/min which was decreased to 0.001 mm/min during the last forward shearing phase for the first test series, whereas the rate was fixed to 0.0007 mm/min for the second test series. The residual friction angle determined by these tests was interpreted by using a theoretical analysis of the landslide, and they were compared with the estimations due to empirical relationships given in the literature. It is concluded that, although the rate of 0.024 mm/min is consistent with the recommendations in literature, this rate can yield overestimation of residual shear strength determined in multi-reversal direct-shear tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In operational flood defense, it is common practice to use sandbag systems. However, their installation is time-consuming as well as material- and labor-intensive. Sandbag replacement systems (SBRSs) can be installed in significantly shorter time and with less effort. However, owing to the lack of confidence in their functionality, they are only used to a limited extent. Testing and certifying such innovative systems according to defined criteria is supportive in promoting their use in flood defense. In order to test SBRSs and as a first step toward systematic tests, the Institute for Hydraulic and Coastal Engineering of the Bremen University of Applied Sciences, Germany (IWA) has set up a test facility in which defined test series can be carried out with different SBRSs on an underlying surface of turf. The focus of the test series is on installation time, possible water head, system stability, and seepage rates when in use. A conventional sandbag dam was used as reference in order to compare the test results with the different SBRSs. Test series show that damming with SBRSs has a clear advantage over the use of sandbags in terms of the time it takes to put them in place and comparable values of seepage rates and water heads. In order to professionally promote the spread of SBRSs in operational flood protection, it is recommended to introduce the certification of SBRSs, since they are technical systems whose functional capability must be proven before their use in an emergency. Together with existing international certification schemes, the test series that were carried out deliver a basis for developing a specific testing scheme for SBRSs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The variation of shrinkage strain within beam depth was examined through four series of time-dependent laboratory experiments on unreinforced concrete beam specimens. Two types of beam specimens, horizontally cast and vertically cast, were tested; shrinkage variation was observed in the horizontally cast specimens. This indicated that the shrinkage variation within the beam depth was due to water bleeding and tamping during the placement of the fresh concrete. Shrinkage strains were measured within the beam depth by two types of strain gages, surface-attached and embedded. The shrinkage strain distribution within the beam depth showed a consistent tendency for the two types of gages. The test beams were cut into four sections after completion of the test, and the cutting planes were divided into four equal sub-areas to measure the aggregate concentration for each sub-area of the cutting plane. The aggregate concentration increased towards the bottom of the beam. The shrinkage strain distribution was estimated by Hobbs' equation, which accounts for the change of aggregate volume concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fertilized highway slopes constitute nonpoint sources of nitrogenous nutrients that are degrading the surface water and groundwater resources. This paper presents the results of simulated rainfall experiments conducted on a plot-scale test bed (slope-adjustable) that was fully exposed to weather for closely representing the conditions of a fertilized turf-covered highway slope in Florida. Thirty-six tests were conducted on three slopes (25, 33, and 50%), simulating two rainfall intensities (12.5 and ). The soils used were fine sand (AASHTO A-3 class) and silty sand (AASHTO A-2-4 class). Following the local highway practices, the tests were conducted after compacting the soils and establishing Argentine Bahia turf over A-3 soils and Pensacola Bahia turf over A-2-4 soils. Two fertilizers were used: a quick release (QR) 10-10-10 and a slow release (SR) 16-0-8. Weather conditions varied considerably during the duration of the project, affecting soil moisture, soil-grass-nutrient interactions, and the distribution of applied rainfall. These weather effects and differences in soil and turf properties resulted in variations of surface runoff percentages and total nitrogen (TN) concentrations in surface runoff and seepage. Because of the differences in the availability of washable TN, the A-3 soil (fine sand) resulted in lower TN losses than the A-2-4 soil (silty sand). The losses of TN were influenced by the intensity and slope of the rainfall, but the differences were significant () in only three of the eight cases analyzed. In the case of A-3 soils, the test series conducted during late fall resulted in higher TN losses than in the test series conducted during early fall season. These results suggest that the TN losses were lower where the soil allowed ready entry of the TN into soil, and in cases of less runoff. The fertilizer type did not result in a significant difference () in TN loss. The results of all test series and ANOVA suggest that the slow release fertilizers did not result in lower TN losses than the QR fertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For packaging of silicon components with low thermal load and high spatial selectivity laser transmission bonding (LTB) of silicon-silicon compounds with intermediate layers using a cw-thulium fiber laser (wavelength 1,940 nm) is investigated. The intermediate layer combination titanium and gold is examined with respect to the bond characteristics and the achievable mechanical properties of the bonded specimens. The tensile strength is measured by using tensile test. Similar specimens bonded with corresponding standard bond process using the same bond geometry are also analyzed in order to compare the measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Motor Performance Test Series (MPTS) is widely used for treatment control in Parkinson's disease (PD). To elucidate the possible influence of depression on the fine motor skills in PD, 54 patients with idiopathic PD were investigated with the MPTS. 27 patients with major intensity of depression were compared to 27 age and motor disability matched patients with minor symptoms of depression, evaluated by the Zung depression scale. As determined by the subtest aiming, a significant lower ability for precise, quick complex arm-hand movements in depressed Parkinsonian patients was found. This result may be explained partly by motivation deficits in depressed patients with PD. On the other hand impairment of special motor loops including frontal lobe projections to specific thalamic subnuclei or to the caudate nucleus may cause disturbances of the subtest aiming in depressed Parkinsonian patients. On the basis of these findings impaired aiming may be explained by diminished ability for complex, semivoluntary movements in depressive Parkinsonian patients. The influence of psychiatric comorbidity on MPTS subtest aiming has to be considered in further therapy studies using evaluation of motor deficits by MPTS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To (1) compare the power output (PO) for both the 20-minute functional threshold power (FTP20) field test and the calculated 95% (FTP95%) with PO at maximal lactate steady state (MLSS) and (2) evaluate the sensitivity of FTP95% and MLSS to training-induced changes. Methods: Eighteen participants (12 males: 37 [6] y and 6 females: 28 [6] y) performed a ramp-incremental cycling test to exhaustion, 2 to 3 constant-load MLSS trials, and an FTP20 test. A total of 10 participants returned to repeat the test series after 7 months of training. Results: The PO at FTP20 and FTP95% was greater than that at MLSS (P =.00), with the PO at MLSS representing 88.5% (4.8%) and 93.1% (5.1%) of FTP and FTP95%, respectively. MLSS was greater at POST compared with PRE training (12 [8] W) (P =.002). No increase was observed in mean PO at FTP20 and FTP95% (P =.75). Conclusions: The results indicate that the PO at FTP95% is different to MLSS, and that changes in the PO at MLSS after training were not reflected by FTP95%. Even when using an adjusted percentage (ie, 88% rather than 95% of FTP20), the large variability in the data is such that it would not be advisable to use this as a representation of MLSS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article focuses on carbamix, which has been in use for patch testing, comprising zinc diethyl-and zinc dibutyldithiocarbamate and the chemically-unrelated compound, diphenylguanidine. Carbamix may cause false positive irritant reactions during patch testing. All the patients with positive reactions to thiuram mix and/or carbamix were taken. Only 8 patients with positive reactions to carbamix were negative to thiuram mix. In only 2 of these 8 cases, positive carbamix reaction was considered to be of current clinical relevance.

Objective: To measure the influence of topical steroids and the preservative potassium sorbate on the ciliary beat frequency (CBF) of human nasal mucosa in vitro. Design: In vitro study of cultured ciliated cells of human nasal mucosa. Methods: Human nasal mucosa was removed endoscopically and cultured for 10 days. Cell cultures with ciliated cells grown on an object slide were exposed to benzalkonium chloride and topical steroids in an exposure chamber. The CBF was measured with a photometer. Results: The preservative potassium sorbate did not influence CBF in different concentrations. The glucocorticoid budesonide spray containing potassium sorbate did not affect CBF at 10% dilution and showed moderate reversible decrease of CBF at 50% dilution. The glucocorticoid sprays fluticasone propionate and mometasone fuorate containing the preservative benzalkonium chloride caused a reversible decrease of CBF at 10% dilution and a complete irreversible standstill at 50% dilution. Conclusions: In vitro, the steroid sprays containing fluticasone or mometasone, both with benzalkonium chloride, caused slowing or standstill of CBF depending on the concentration. The isolated preservative potassium sorbate and the budesonide nasal spray containing this preservative did not have negative influence on CBF in vitro. Potassium sorbate can therefore be considered harmless to the motility of ciliated cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silica fly ash, Certyd aggregate, and an alkaline solution were used to produce lightweight geopolymer concretes. The compressive strength, water absorption, and bulk density results, along with SEM photos showing the structure of the obtained composite, were obtained. Tests conducted on the specifications of lightweight geopolymer concretes have revealed significant chemical interactions between the ash aggregate and the geopolymer mortar, particularly when the coarse aggregate surface has been pre-treated with an alkaline solution. A statistical analysis of the experimental data, which investigated the influence of three key variables on the compressive strength, water absorption, and bulk density of lightweight geopolymer concrete (LBG), identified the following factors as having the most substantial impact: the quantity of alkali used, the curing temperature, and the concentration of alkali in the mixture. The optimal test series exhibited a commendable compressive strength of 20.14 megapascals (MPa), accompanied by a water absorption rate of 14.72%, and a bulk density of 1486.6 kg per cubic meter (kg/m³). These findings underscore the importance of alkali content, curing temperature, and alkali concentration in tailoring the properties of lightweight geopolymer concrete to meet specific performance requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel sensor solutions for sleep monitoring at home could alleviate bottlenecks in sleep medical care as well as enable selective or continuous observation over long periods of time and contribute to new insights in sleep medicine and beyond. Since especially in the latter case the sensor data differ strongly in signal, number and extent of sensors from the classical polysomnography (PSG) sensor technology, an automatic evaluation is essential for the application. However, the training of an automatic algorithm is complicated by the fact that the development phase of the new sensor technology, extensive comparative measurements with standardized reference systems, is often not possible and therefore only small datasets are available. In order to circumvent high system-specific training data requirements, we employ pre-training on large datasets with finetuning on small datasets of new sensor technology to enable automatic sleep phase detection for small test series. By pre-training on publicly available PSG datasets and finetuning on 12 nights recorded with new sensor technology based on a pre-gelled electrode grid to capture electroencephalography (EEG), electrooculography (EOG) and electromyography (EMG), an F 1 score across all sleep phases of 0.81 is achieved (wake 0.84, N1 0.62, N2 0.81, N3 0.87, REM 0.88), using only EEG and EOG. The analysis additionally considers the spatial distribution of the channels and an approach to approximate classical electrode positions based on specific linear combinations of the new sensor grid channels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As fleet electrification progresses, vehicles are continuously becoming heavier, while the used electric motors, with their high torques, enable longitudinal dynamics to be maintained or even increased. This raises the question of what effect electric vehicles have on the emission of tire–road particulate matter (PM). To answer this question, investigations were carried out in this study on a tire internal drum test bench with real road surfaces. In addition to the vertical load, the tire inflation pressure and the driving speed were varied. PM emissions were recorded in real time, resulting in emission factors (emission per kilometer driven) for different load conditions. This allows statements to be made about both the effect on the total emission and on the particle size distribution. It was shown that the PM emission increases linearly with the vertical load at constant longitudinal dynamics. If the tire inflation pressure is increased, the emission also increases linearly, and the increases in emission are equally large for both influences. A clear influence of the driving speed on the emission factor could not be determined. With regard to the particle size distribution, the following correlations were found: higher vertical load and higher tire inflation pressure result in a larger mean particle diameter, while a higher driving speed reduces it. Thus, this study contributes to a better understanding of the expected changes in tire-road PM emissions as a result of electrification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of long precipitation series constitutes an important issue in climate research and risk assessment. However, long datasets are affected by inhomogeneities that can lead to biased results. A frequent but sometimes underestimated problem is the definition of the climatological day. The choice of different starting times may lead to inhomogeneity within the same station and misalignment with other stations. In this work, the problem of temporal misalignment between precipitation datasets characterized by different starting times of the observation day is analyzed. The most widely used adjustment methods (1 day and uniform shift) and two new methods based on reanalysis (NOAA and ERA5) are evaluated in terms of temporal alignment, precipitation statistics, and percentile distributions. As test series, the hourly precipitation series of Padua and nearby stations in the period of 1993–2022 are selected. The results show that the reanalysis-based methods, in particular ERA5, outperform the others in temporal alignment, regardless of the station. But, for the periods in which reanalysis data are not available, 1-day and uniform shift methods can be considered viable alternatives. On the other hand, the reanalysis-based methods are not always the best option in terms of precipitation statistics, as they increase the precipitation frequency and reduce the mean value over wet days, NOAA much more than ERA5. The use of the series of a station near the target one, which is mandatory in case of missing data, can sometimes give comparable or even better results than any adjustment method. For the Padua series, the analysis is repeated at monthly and seasonal resolutions. In the tested series, the adjustment methods do not provide good results in summer and autumn, the two seasons mainly affected by heavy rains in Padua. Finally, the percentile distribution indicates that any adjustment method underestimates the percentile values, except ERA5, and that only the nearby station most correlated with Padua gives results comparable to ERA5. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Expansive soils in the field are typically exposed to cyclic wetting and drying due to climatic fluctuations and subjected to a variety of stress conditions in nature or when used as compacted layers for the construction of hydraulic barriers or waste disposal facilities. The hysteric behavior of the soil-water characteristic curve (SWCC) is a key parameter for understanding, modeling, and interpreting the unsaturated behavior of these soils under such conditions. This study investigates the effect of stress states on the hysteresis behavior of soil-water characteristic curves (SWCCs) for compacted highly expansive clay over a range of matric suction between 0 and 1500 kPa. Two test series were performed, the first test series investigated the effect of stress states on the hysteresis of SWCCs during a single drying-wetting (DW) cycle. The second test series studied the combined effect of stress applied and multiple drying-wetting cycles on the SWCC hysteresis. For the sake of comparison, the overall SWCC hysteresis due to drying-wetting cycles was quantified using the average degree of hysteresis in terms of volumetric water content (ADHθ). Furthermore, contributors to the observed hysteresis were defined using two newly proposed measures; namely, average degree hysteresis in terms of gravimetric water content (ADHw) and in terms of volume change (ADHe*). The outcomes of this study indicate that consideration of stress states on the hysteresis of SWCC for expansive clay is of great importance. The results show a dual trend for the variation of ADHθ with applied vertical stress. Furthermore, multiple DW cycles induced a significant reduction in the hysteresis (ADHθ) under low- and high-stress states up to a certain level of DW cycles, then, no further changes in the hysteresis trend were detected. It was also found that hysteresis loops under a low-stress state were concentric in shape while hysteresis loops for specimens under a high-stress state were non-concentric, with a downward shift in hysteresis loops with the increase in DW cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patch test (PT) readings are recommended after 48 h and 72 h (D3). An additional day 7 (D7) reading has been suggested by some, although data on efficient patient selection are scarce. We investigated positive D7 reactions regarding (i) allergens in the baseline series and additional PT series of the German Contact Dermatitis Research Group (DKG) and (ii) characteristics of the patients tested. Methods: Retrospective, multicentre analysis of 190 allergens derived from 17 DKG test series in 4687 patients with an additional D7 reading. Patients were patch tested with the baseline series and additional series, if required. Occurrence of novel D7 reactions as well as increasing skin reactions from D3 to D7 was analysed separately. Results: Depending on the allergen tested, waiving D7 readings would have missed 4.4–26.8% of positive PT results. Patch test series with the highest number of novel D7 reactions were baseline series, metal series, and leather/shoe series. New positive reactions on D7 were associated with age over 50 years and with a negative irritant control containing sodium lauryl sulphate. Of note, application of the PT allergens for 48 h instead of 24 h was positively associated with late PT reactions. Conclusion: Within the most frequently tested allergens, without late readings, on average 11.7% of sensitizations would have been missed. Novel late reacting allergens were identified. This study comprehensively dissects patient‐, allergen‐ and test‐dependent parameters in support for D7 readings. We propose to always consider late readings individually based on effort‐benefit considerations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Up to now, no consistent fatigue assessment approach of powder metallurgy (PM) components is available. For some materials and for some parameters, such as the density, a relationship to the fatigue strength is known; however, for other materials, such relationships are unknown. Based on an extensive data set with 828 test series, the present work addresses this problem by conceiving and applying five machine learning (ML)‐based approaches to increase the accuracy of the prediction of the fatigue life as well as to predict the scatter of unknown data as precisely as possible. With the elaborated procedure, on the one hand, a scatter range of TS=1:1.40 can be achieved on completely unknown data. On the other hand, by using a newly defined loss function, the standard deviation of unknown data can be predicted very accurately. The findings provide the basis for further research on cost and efficiency optimized design of PM components through better estimation of fatigue life. Highlights: Reliable fatigue assessment approaches for PM components have been developed.Machine learning approaches for the estimation of S‐N curves have been compared.Evaluation of different S‐N models regarding the practicability was carried out.ML approaches can achieve higher reliability compared to conventional ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melby presents a formula to predict damage evolution in rubble-mound breakwaters whose armour layer is made of rock, based on the erosion measured in scale-model tests and the characteristics of the incident sea waves in such tests. However, this formula is only valid for armour layers made of rock and for the range of tested sea states. The present work aims to show how the Melby methodology can be used to establish a similar formula for the armour layer damage evolution in a rubble-mound breakwater where tetrapods are employed. For that, a long-duration test series is conducted with a 1:50 scale model of the quay section of the Ericeira Harbour breakwater. The eroded volume of the armour layer was measured using a Kinect position sensor. The damage parameter values measured in the experiments are lower than those predicted by the formulation for rock armour layers. New a p and b coefficients for the Melby formula for the tested armour layer were established based on the minimum root mean square error between the measured and the predicted damage. This work shows also that it is possible to assess the damage evolution in scale-model tests with rubble-mound breakwaters by computing the eroded volume and subsequently, the dimensionless damage parameter based on the equivalent removed armour units. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The UN "Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods" presents schemes for the classification of hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, or oxidizing substances, and gives descriptions of the test methods and procedures for the selection of appropriate packages and shipping types, as well as consignment procedures. Substances are classified according to their degree of danger, and the "Model Regulations" provide a hazard hierarchy. Class 4.1 and Class 5.2 materials are self‐reactive and solid desensitized explosives, and organic peroxides, respectively, and these hazard classes trump many other classification levels. The UN "Manual of Tests and Criteria" provides standard test methods for classifying self‐reactive and organic peroxide substances into seven groups (A–G) according to their hazard levels but also allows for other procedures to be used provided that adequate correlation has been obtained with the classification tests on a representative range of substances. There are eight test series (A–H) documented in the Manual of Tests and Criteria that could be needed in order to identify the hazard level for Class 4.1 and Class 5.2 materials, which can be an expensive and time‐consuming requirement. An alternative method aimed at streamlining the hazard classification process is proposed. This alternative method utilizes low phi‐factor adiabatic calorimetry data and the measured maximum rate of pressure rise to classify self‐reactive and organic peroxide substances for transport. Benchmarking experiments using this alternative method to classify t‐butyl perbenzoate, 50%–70% TBHP in decane, and 70% TBHP in water are promising, indicating that further evaluation of the proposed method is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Los Angeles test is a widely used standard method for quality control of railway ballast. It is commonly believed that there is an inversely proportional relationship between the test result LARB and the resistance to fragmentation. This implies that the fines are generated by fragmentation only. In this study, an extensive test series with four rock types and an in-depth analysis of particle geometry and petrography are carried out using advanced imaging techniques. The amount of fragmentation, rounding and abrasion contributing to the test result is estimated. The test shows approximately 3–5% (Mass-%) of fines not caused by fragmentation, but by rounding and abrasion, regardless of the magnitude of the LA-value itself. An analysis of particle size distributions after the test shows that the fines proportion can in some cases be a misleading metric. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Historically, wooden peg connections have been widely used in timber joints, particularly during the Middle Ages, and the use of these wooden connections is becoming popular again. In this article, an experimental investigation of seven different combinations of pegged connection parameters is presented. Embedment, single-shear, and double-shear tests of pine peg connections were loaded parallel and perpendicular to the grain under monotonic static compressive loads. Pegs of 10, 15, and 20 mm diameters were tested in three different shapes: straight cylindrical, straight traditional, and conical traditional. All peg shapes exhibited similar maximum loads, but straight traditional pegs exhibited greater stiffness than cylindrical pegs due to the tight fit of the peg. The ultimate load capacities of the straight traditional and cylindrical peg connections were then compared to a model based on Johansen's theory of timber connections and were accurately predicted in both single and double shear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The aim of this paper is to examine the factors that induced people to follow the 2005 Ashes cricket series on television and to explore the implications of these factors for the marketing of English cricket as a brand. Design/methodology/approach - A total of 427 members of the public who reported that they had watched at least part of the 2005 Ashes series on television were questioned about their motives for having done so. Specific motives were then related to viewing intensity and to an individual's intention to follow cricket in the future. Findings - The study finds that viewers who had been motivated to watch the Ashes series because of cricket's nostalgic associations with England's past were more likely than others to have followed the series intensively and to state that they would continue to be interested in cricket. Patriotic motivations led to short- but not to long-term support. Social pressure, prior involvement with cricket, and several variables identified from a review of the general academic literature in the sports marketing area also exerted significant influences on future intentions to watch cricket. Research limitations/implications - It was not feasible to establish the socio-demographic, cultural and economic backgrounds of individuals who exhibited strong tendencies in relation to the motivations covered by the study. Thus it was not possible to relate these background characteristics to decisions to follow cricket in the longer period. Practical implications - The results suggest that English cricket may indeed be regarded as a brand, and that certain aspects of cricket's brand identity should be incorporated into marketing communications that promote the sport. Originality/value - This was the first empirical study to analyse the factors underlying the highly successful rebranding of English cricket that occurred between 1997 and 2004. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary objective of this work is to provide connection-level force-deformation response appropriate for standard cold-formed steel (CFS) framed steel sheet sheathed shear walls under cyclic loads. Common CFS framing designs increasingly are exploring thicker framing options so that walls can meet gravity demands, overturning demands, and seismic overstrength requirements. For the seismic performance of self-drilling screw-fastened steel sheet sheathed shear walls, the cyclic nonlinear response of the screw-fastened connection is particularly important and should incorporate the impact of shear buckling of the steel sheet on the strength and ductility of the connection. Minimal cyclic connection-level shear test data exist, especially for combinations of screw-fastened thin steel sheet and thick framing steel. A unique lap shear test following current test standards was proposed to elucidate and characterize the cyclic screw-fastened connection behavior. An asymmetric cyclic loading protocol was selected with a small displacement applied in the direction that buckles the thin steel sheet, followed by progressively larger displacements in the opposite direction. A total of 93 tests were conducted, and characterization of the observed cyclic connection response with a multilinear backbone curve appropriate for use in models is provided. Connection strength is sensitive to whether the thin steel sheet ply is buckling away from or toward the fastener head in some test series. Performance of the screw shear strength as per the standard's provisions is evaluated. The work is intended to provide critical missing information for CFS framed steel sheet sheathed shear walls for use in both simulation and design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Woolson's cataloguing of 82 tests is followed by tests which follow the Woolson-Miller test standard up until its date of publication in 1912 [[5]]. In reference [[5]], Woolson provides a catalogue of structural fire tests starting with the 1896/97 New York fire tests that followed the Henning test standard. Despite the corruption associated with the test series, the evidence from Woolson and Miller suggest that the test series was still considered as valid during the era of the temperature-time curve's establishment and the original foundation for the tests that followed it. In 2020, we submitted a now published review paper in Fire Technology discussing early narratives of fire testing and the origins of the standard temperature and time heating curve [[1]]. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Facial allergic contact dermatitis caused by cosmetic products is common. New allergens in cosmetics continuously emerge. Objectives: To investigate characteristics of patients with facial dermatitis (FD) between 2010 and 2019 including patch test results from cosmetic‐related allergens and a new test series with cosmetic‐relevant natural ingredients (CRNIs). Methods: This is a retrospective study analysing demographics, clinical characteristics according to MOAHLFA index (male; occupation; atopic dermatitis; hand; leg; face; age ≥ 40 years), and patch test results to 27 cosmetic‐relevant allergens in FD patients. A prospective study evaluating a screening test series with CRNIs in consecutive FD patients for 1 year was also conducted. These patients received a questionnaire for collecting extra characteristics (eg, concerning quality of life). Results: Of 8740 tested patients, 2292 (26.2%) had FD. Of these, 30.6% had cosmetic‐induced FD. The most common cosmetic‐related allergens were fragrances and preservatives. The most common patch test‐positive CRNIs were hydroperoxides of limonene and linalool, and propolis. Potato and peanut were rare, but the most common prick test‐positive CRNIs, however, without any relation to the use of cosmetic products. FD affected nearly all patients' quality of life and caused limitations to their daily life. Conclusions: Updated management and quick diagnosis of FD is important to avoid negative impact on patients' quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heart rate control using first- and second-order models was compared using a novel control design strategy which shapes the input sensitivity function. Ten participants performed two feedback control test series on a treadmill with square wave and constant references. Using a repeated measures, counterbalanced study design, each series compared controllers C1 and C2 based on first- and second-order models, respectively. In the first series, tracking accuracy root-mean-square tracking error (RMSE) was not significantly lower for C2: 2.59 bpm vs. 2.69 bpm (mean, C1 vs. C2), p = 0.79. But average control signal power was significantly higher for C2: 11.29 × 10 − 4 m 2 / s 2 vs. 27.91 × 10 − 4 m 2 / s 2 , p = 3.1 × 10 − 10 . In the second series, RMSE was also not significantly lower for C2: 1.99 bpm vs. 1.94 bpm, p = 0.39; but average control signal power was again significantly higher for C2: 2.20 × 10 − 4 m 2 / s 2 vs. 2.78 × 10 − 4 m 2 / s 2 , p = 0.045. The results provide no evidence that controllers based on second-order models lead to better tracking accuracy, despite the finding that they are significantly more dynamic. Further investigation using a substantially larger sample size is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]