Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Seismic Safety of Gravity Dams: From Shake Table Experiments to Numerical Analyses

The purpose of this paper is to present shake table experiments conducted on four 3.4-m-high plain concrete gravity dam models to study their dynamic cracking and sliding responses. The experimental results are then compared with a smeared cracked finite-element simulation using a nonlinear concrete constitutive model based on fracture mechanics. For the sliding mechanism, the numerical simulations use rigid body dynamics with frictional strength derived from the Mohr-Coulomb criterion. From the cracking tests, it is shown that a single triangular acceleration pulse could initiate and propagate a crack. The numerical correlation with the observed response is good. However, viscous damping varies experimentally from 1% in an uncracked situation to over 20% in a partially cracked case. For the sliding mechanism when the critical acceleration is exceeded, it is shown experimentally that sliding could occur due to a single triangular acceleration pulse. For actual seismic records, the cumulative sliding displ.
Calculation of self and mutual impedances between sections of transformer windings

The paper shows how a new frequency-dependent impedance formula, derived on the assumption of a solid homogeneous core, may be adapted to permit calculation of the self and mutual impedances of coil sections on a practical transformer core. Experimental measurements, in comparison with calculated values, show that the effects of the laminations can be accurately simulated by using two distinct resistivities in different parts of the basic formula. A method is given for determining these quantities experimentally. Application of the resulting formula in transient analysis automatically accounts for the effects of transient flux penetration into the transformer core, including the effects of frequency-dependent inductances and transient eddy currents in the core laminations.
Printed MIMO antenna system of four closely-spaced elements with large bandwidth and high isolation

A compact wideband printed MIMO antenna system (of four elements) with high isolation is presented. The proposed MIMO antenna system with an overall lateral size of only 0. 43λ× 0. 43λ can offer 22.8% bandwidth (1.63-2.05 GHz) and isolation of better than 24 dB. The measured gain is larger than 2.72 dBi over the whole band, and the calculated envelope correlation coefficient is better than 0.01. The radiation patterns and MIMO channel capacity are also measured.
Effectiveness of behaviour based safety interventions to reduce accidents and injuries in workplaces: critical appraisal and meta-analysis

Background: Behaviour-based safety (BBS) is one of the promising methods implemented in industry to reduce the incidence of accidents and injuries. Researchers have reported diverse BBS applications in various industries. The diversity of applications and results reveals a need for systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the overall effectiveness of BBS to improve workers’ safety and health. Objective: To quantitatively assess the effectiveness of behaviour-based safety (BBS) interventions in reducing accidents and injury occurrence in occupational settings. Methods: A critical appraisal was conducted to assess the methodological quality of study. A meta-analysis was also performed to identify the direction and size of the effect. Results: Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria with a poor to marginal methodological quality. Eight studies achieved a statistically significant reduction in accidents/injuries after conducting a BBS intervention. The overall metaSAR (0.60, 95% CI 0.72–0.97) displayed a statistical significance in reducing accidents/injuries. Conclusions: A statistically significant reduction in injuries/accidents was observed after conducting a BBS intervention in a workplace. However, this statistical significance should be interpreted with caution, due to the poor to marginal methodological quality of studies included in the meta-analysis. Reliable results require interventions with high methodological quality based on the specific needs of the workplace.
Washington State Cable Median Barrier

In the mid-1960s, the New York State Department of Transportation developed a three-strand cable barrier that has several desirable characteristics as compared with other roadside barriers. This system was crash tested in accordance with the NCHRP Report 350 crash test criteria as a roadside barrier. In the roadside barrier, all three cables are placed on the traffic side of the posts. Since 1988, the AASHTO Roadside Design Guide has contained information on a cable median barrier design in which the middle cable is mounted on the opposite side of the posts so that it can contain and redirect vehicles that strike the system from either side. In the early 1990s, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) became interested in using this design for medians that are more than 10 m wide. WSDOT sponsored crash tests to evaluate the performance of this barrier, in accordance with NCHRP Report 350 criteria, with a small car and a pickup truck. In both tests, the vehicle was contained and brought to a stop. The occupant risk values were within the preferred limits set by NCHRP Report 350, and the damage to both vehicles was relatively minor.
Hybrid social learning in human-algorithm cultural transmission

Humans are impressive social learners. Researchers of cultural evolution have studied the many biases shaping cultural transmission by selecting who we copy from and what we copy. One hypothesis is that with the advent of superhuman algorithms a hybrid type of cultural transmission, namely from algorithms to humans, may have long-lasting effects on human culture. We suggest that algorithms might show (either by learning or by design) different behaviours, biases and problem-solving abilities than their human counterparts. In turn, algorithmic-human hybrid problem solving could foster better decisions in environments where diversity in problem-solving strategies is beneficial. This study asks whether algorithms with complementary biases to humans can boost performance in a carefully controlled planning task, and whether humans further transmit algorithmic behaviours to other humans. We conducted a large behavioural study and an agent-based simulation to test the performance of transmission chains with human and algorithmic players. We show that the algorithm boosts the performance of immediately following participants but this gain is quickly lost for participants further down the chain. Our findings suggest that algorithms can improve performance, but human bias may hinder algorithmic solutions from being preserved. This article is part of the theme issue ‘Emergent phenomena in complex physical and socio-technical systems: from cells to societies’.
From client to project stakeholders: a stakeholder mapping approach

In contemporary management theory and practice the rise and role of stakeholders as major players in organizational dynamics are widely recognized and recorded. This pluralistic view of the identity of those who have an investment and an interest in an organization extends well beyond the traditional concept of shareholders to include employees, suppliers, customers, trade unions, communities, etc. The concept of stakeholders has been applied to projects in general but has not, to date, been extended to the context of construction projects although it is accepted that the traditional view of the client as a single entity does not reflect the reality of stakeholder configurations for most projects. Different stakeholders have different levels and types of investment and interest in construction projects and can be seen as multiple clients or customers for the project in which they are involved. This paper argues that the concept of client, which has prevailed throughout the twentieth century, is now obsolete and is being replaced by the reality of project stakeholders. A novel application of the technique of stakeholder mapping to a large construction project demonstrates the importance to project managers of conducting the analysis of the power, predictability and interest of key project stakeholders.
Assessment of Aircraft Contrails Avoidance Strategies

Some contrail avoidance options are critically analyzed. These options include the use of altitude flexibility and go-around. It is demonstrated that long-range commercial airplanes powered by high bypass turbofan engines have a vertical flexibility of up to 3,000 ft (30 flight levels) for a fuel penalty of 1%. This penalty can be recovered by adjusting the cruise Mach number. However, there are technical difficulties in implementing this option, due to air traffic constraints and safety issues. Avoidance proposals that involve a go-around are impractical, not least for the extension of the flight time, which bears additional operating costs. A sensitivity analysis is shown to indicate that single-event forecasts may be imprecise and that contrail events cannot be costed by precise methods. The paper concludes with the statement that long-term contrail effects (years or decades) obtained by single-flight procedure changes (if allowed at all) cannot be reliably predicted. Simple prediction methods cannot b.
Use of NIOSH equation inputs to calculate lumbosacral compression forces

The purpose of the current paper was to develop regression-based models that use NIOSH lifting equation H and V values to accurately calculate L5/S1 compression forces during symmetrical load-bearing tasks. Results from a linked-segment, biomechanical model were used as the criterion. Twenty-two subjects (11 males, 11 females) performed movements through a wide range of postures in the sagittal plane. Each model was developed with the data from 16 subjects (n = 1704 postures) and validated with 6 subjects (n = 750 postures). Five loads were iterated from 0 to 28 kg (females) or 36 kg (males) or until the strength demand at one joint exceeded the 98th percentile value predicted for that gender. Both models required the input of the NIOSH H and V values, subject body mass, load mass and trunk angle. MODEL1 used regression equations to calculate the moment arm from the load, and the upper body centre of mass, to the L5/S1 joint. These lengths were subsequently used in a biomechanical model to calculate the j.
Knowledge management : challenges, solutions, and technologies

This new book approaches knowledge management (KM) from several perspectives: it spans electrical engineering, artificial intelligence, information systems, and business. Comprehensive yet clearly and concisely written, "Knowledge Management" is simultaneously strong in managerial, technical, and systemic aspects of KM, providing readers with the right combination of theory, technology, and solutions. Organized coherently into four sections, "Knowledge Management" covers the principles, technologies, capture systems, sharing systems, and application systems of KM. An excellent handbook for business executives, especially chief information officers, IT directors, and chief knowledge officers.
Modeling of Active Differential Dynamics

Active differentials are increasingly being used in high-end vehicles in order to improve the overall performance of vehicle dynamics control systems. The active differentials can be divided into active limited slip differentials and torque vectoring differentials. This paper presents the development of a generalized mathematical model of active differential dynamics using the bond graph modeling technique. Different levels of model complexity are considered, starting from a second-order model with lumped input and output inertia towards high order models including the gear inertia and halfshaft compliance. The paper also presents typical model simulation results and their comparative analysis with respect to drivability and time response features.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Evaluating light rail as a short distance passenger transportation solution in a midsized town

European Union regards railways as a safe and environmentally friendly transportation mode. One target of EU transport policy is to shift long-distance road journeys and short-distance air journeys onto railways. In local passenger transportation, rail is currently used only in larger cities. This study evaluates light rail as a local passenger traffic solution for a midsized town. The evaluation is based on investment appraisal methodology. In the case studied, the functionality of alternative routes is explored using discrete event simulation. Based on the results, the infrastructure investment of operating network required plays a pivotal role in determining the profitability of light rail public transportation system. Interestingly, environmental issues cannot justify light rail investments alone, even if significant changes would appear in operating environment.
Design model for the fatigue behaviour of normal‐strength, high‐strength and ultra‐high‐strength concrete

Fatigue design according to CEB‐FIP Model Code 90 is limited to concrete grades up to C80. In addition, the design rules include a strength‐dependent reduction in the fatigue reference strength, which leads to uneconomical design of high‐strength concrete. Considering comprehensive knowledge now available concerning the fatigue behaviour of normal‐strength and high‐strength concretes, the amount of this reduction can no longer be justified. A new design model for compressive fatigue loading and its derivation is presented in this article. A comparison between the new design model and the current standard ones reveals that the new design model ensures safe and economical design of normal‐strength, high‐strength and ultra‐high‐strength concrete. This new design model is included in the new fib Model Code 2010.
Factors influencing purchase intention towards environmentally friendly apparel: an empirical study of US consumers

Understanding of the different roles of key factors in the formation of consumer purchase intention towards environmentally friendly apparel (EFA) is crucial in developing effective marketing strategies. Building on the theory of reasoned action and the theory of planned behaviour, with additional antecedents and moderators (i.e. perceived consumer effectiveness, past behaviour, EFA knowledge), an enhanced consumer EFA purchase intention model was proposed and tested. Using 187 survey responses from US college students, factor analysis and structural equation modelling were utilised for data analysis and hypothesis testing. Results demonstrate that the model has sound psychometric properties while the statistical criteria are also well met. The model exhibits high explanatory power, accounting for 66.5% of variance in consumer EFA purchase intention. Attitude, subjective norm, and PCE show significantly positive effects on EFA purchase intention, while perceived behaviour control and EFA knowledge enhance the relationship between attitude towards EFA and EFA purchase intention.
Characterization of Extremely Low Frequency Magnetic Field Exposures of Office Workers

Abstract The purpose of this study is to present results of an extremely low frequency magnetic field exposure assessment performed in a large office building environment. The extremely low frequency magnetic field assessment strategy included an evaluation of full-shift personal exposure for building occupants, a determination of average work area magnetic fields, and magnetic field characterizations of sources within each work area. An employee questionnaire regarding daily utilization patterns of workplace magnetic field sources was also used to help interpret exposure information. Magnetic field exposures were determined using EMDEX magnetic field exposure meters. For personal magnetic field characterization, each participant wore the monitor for a full shift, and office area magnetic fields were determined as the average of five equally spaced measurements. In situ source characterization included measuring magnetic fields at 30 and 50 cm from pieces of electrical equipment. 259 employees in the buil.
Axial capacity of offshore piles driven in dense sand

The paper reports a previously unpublished tension load test to failure on a 38.1 m long, 660 mm diameter steel pipe conductor driven in predominantly dense sands at the Leman BD site in the Southern North Sea. The case history is used, with other pile test data, to evaluate and calibrate new design methods that have been developed from recent research. As an example, the findings are applied to a study into the axial capacity of piles driven at the nearby Leman AD II site. The Leman soil conditions are described, and the driving records and test result are presented. The new design methods are then summarized and applied to analyze the conductor`s capacity. A comparison with other pile capacity prediction methods is made and the results are used, in conjunction with other data, to demonstrate that a modified form of the new method can give accurate predictions for offshore pipe piles. Applying these approaches the Leman AD II platform`s foundations indicates axial capacities greater than expected previously. Increases in compressive and tensile capacities of at least 15 and 50%, respectively, are predicted. Research is continuing to further refine the new methods for calculating axial capacity.
Effects of cup, cushion, band force, foam lining and various design parameters on the attenuation of carmuffs

Etude experimentale sur des protecteurs acoustiques evaluant l'effet de leur partie ecouteur, de leur matelas amortisseur, de leur garnissage de mousse et de leur ruban de casque sur leur attenuation sonore. Suivant le parametre etudie, utilisation d'une methode a microphone miniature en chambre anechoique ou basses frequences, ou d'un dispositif de test acoustique dans un tunnel acoustique. Analyse quantitative de l'effet de ces divers parametres en fonction de la frequence et consequences sur la possibilite de leur amelioration. Etude de l'effet de defauts du protecteur sur son attenuation
Preservation of Alfalfa Hay with Propionic Acid

Thirteen trials were conducted to evaluate propionic acid as a preservative for high-moisture alfalfa hay using spray equipment and procedures available to a farmer. An experimental device was also evaluated which injected the preservative into hay in the baling chamber of a rectangular baler. Propionic acid treatment provided a reduction in heating and dry matter loss during the first month of storage with less visible mold in the hay following storage when compared to untreated high-moisture hay. After six months of storage, dry matter loss in high-moisture hay was similar with or without the acid treatment. When compared to untreated dry hay, the treated high-moisture hay had much greater heating and dry matter loss during storage as well as more visible mold, poorer color and greater fiber and fiber bound protein concentrations following storage. Propionic acid injected into bales did not perform as well as spray application because the acid was not dispersed uniformly throughout the bale.
Predicting Sediment Yield in Storm-Water Runoff from Urban Areas

The authors are to be commended for attempting to im prove the methods of predicting sediment yield from urban watersheds. However, the discussers feel there are a number of problems with the approach taken. In the section titled "Watershed Hydrology," the authors state that they developed simulated hydrographs using the unit hydrograph procedure. They state further that Soil Con servation Service (SCS) curve numbers (CNs) were used to estimate losses. They then go on to state that". simulated hydrographs were separated into two hydrographs repre senting the contribution of storm-water runoff from the irnpervious area and the pervious area . Simulated hydrographs for the bare-soil areas were computed using the kinematic wave model. " Further along they state, "The rain fall excess rate /, in (2) is computed by using the Green-Ampt (in)filtration equation. " This is extremely confusing. Did the authors really use CNs with unit hydrographs? The kinematic routing discussions would lead the discussers to believe that the authors did not. Justification should also be provided for the use of two different methods to treat infiltrating surfaces [curve numbers for pervious surfaces and Green-Ampt (Green and Ampt 1911) for bare-soil surface cover). The Green-Ampt infiltra tion equations (Skaggs and Khaleel 1983) are capable of mod eling both types of infiltrating surfaces and computing rainfall excess. Using both methods only confuses the presentation. But most importantly, because there are no interior runoff or sediment concentration data, one can only wonder what the justification is for the subdivision? In the section titled "Sediment Yield Modeling of Imper vious Areas. " the authors assume that most (or all? ) of the sediment is produced from the impervious area, a question able assumption in our estimation although this may be true on small precipitation events. The assumption that the small plots (representing an area of 0.01 ha) can be used to deter mine parameter values for the four watersheds with drainage areas 1.2 ha < A < 150 ha is certainly questionable. Are the authors implying that this could be done or was this procedure used? Although" recognizing that this is done with some reg ularity, it is certainly not adequate for the largest drainage (i.e. for 150 ha). As the drainage area increases, the oppor tunity for additional water and sediment transport increases and the shear stresses increase in a nonlinear manner (Haan et al. 1982). It would have helped if the authors had shown which of the plots were being simulated in Figs. 2-7 by cross refer encing them to the simulation number in Table 1. Did the authors use an average of the two replications or does the result represent one replication? The discussers suspect that parameters were adjusted until hydrograph volumes matched those observed. Most of the hydrograph simulations look quite acceptable except for Fig. 5(b).
Developing Methods for Grading the Accessibility of a Communality’s Infrastructure

AbstractFor people with disabilities, accessibility is a critical aspect of infrastructure that influences their health, quality of life, and ability to participate in community life. Currently, no standard methods exist for assessing a community’s accessibility or for accumulating such data across communities. ASCE’s report card on the status of America’s infrastructure offers a framework for collecting and aggregating data on accessibility, and for using it to advocate for community improvement. In the present study, an assessment for estimating a community’s accessibility was developed and pilot tested. The feasibility of the assessment method was tested by observing 297 randomly selected businesses in a city. Aggregated across nine access categories, the city scored 3.32 on a four-point scale, the equivalent of a grade of “B” on ASCE’s scale. However, 28 (10%) businesses met “access failure” criteria—having at least one barrier that precluded access to a person using a wheelchair. On average, infrastr.