bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Analysis on the Water-Sediment Characteristics and the Influences of Sluice Construction in Jiaojiang River Estuary
Authors: Weiyi Xia , Xiaodong Zhao , Xinzhou Zhang , Kangkai Yang
Published: September 2015

According to the field observation data of Jiaojiang River estuary in the dry season of 2013 and the flood season of 2014, the paper has analyzed the variation of water-sediment characteristics among three river sections (Lingjiang River, Jiaojiang River and Jiaojiang River Mouth). Based on the underwater topographic data in recent years, the erosion and deposition evolution of riverbed has been studied. The effect of the relative strength of runoff and tide on the water-sediment characteristics and the riverbed evolution has been discussed according to data analysis. The effect made by sluice construction in the river and estuary has also been discussed employing the result of numerical simulation research made by Nanjing Hydraulic Research Institute.
Optimization Models and Solution Algorithms for Freight Routing Planning Problem in the Multi-Modal Transportation Networks: A Review of the State-of-the-Art
Authors: Sun Yan , Lang Maoxiang , Wang Danzhu
Published: September 2015

With the remarkable development of international trade, global commodity circulation has grown significantly. To accomplish commodity circulation among various regions and countries, multi-modal transportation scheme has been widely adopted by a large number of companies. Meanwhile, according to the relevant statistics, the international logistics costs reach up to approximate 30-50% of the total production cost of the companies. Lowering the transportation costs has become one of the most important sources for a company to raise profits and maintain competitiveness in the global market. Thus, how to optimize freight routes selection to move commodities through the multi-modal transportation network has gained great concern of both the decision makers of the companies and the multi-modal transport operators. In this study, we present a systematical review on the multi-modal transportation freight routing planning problem from the aspects of model formulation and algorithm design. Following contents are covered in this review: (1) distinguishing the formulation characteristics of various optimization models; (2) identifying the optimization models in recent studies according to the formulation characteristics; and (3) discussing the solution approaches that are developed to solve the optimization models, especially the heuristic algorithms.
Construction Monitoring of Cable-stayed Bridges Based on Gray Prediction Model
Authors: Fangwen Wu , Zhengdi Ji , Caofang Yang
Published: September 2015

The construction process of cable-stayed bridges is complex and has many influencing parameters.
Construction monitoring plays an important role in the construction process to ensure the structural safety and meet the
design requirements. Gray system theory is applied to analyze and predict structural deformation and cable tension for
construction monitoring, which regards the cable-stayed bridge under construction as an interferential gray system with a
physical prototype and analyzes the random process as a gray process. The gray prediction model has been established by
using and evaluating girder and cable tension as two control inputs of the system in the construction process of cablestayed
bridges. The girder and cable tension of subsequent construction stages were predicted, adjusted, and evaluated by
using feedback information obtained from measuring and rectifying the gray prediction model to effectively control and
adjust the bridge configuration and cable tension. Results show that gray prediction model has good prediction precision,
which can control the structural configuration in the ideal state and meet the design requirements.
Research on Optimal Allocation of Regional Annual Water Consumption
Authors: Zhang Xianqi
Published: September 2015

The optimization of regional water distribution refers to distributing regional and industrial water supply scientifically on the premises of limited regional water supply with an excess of demand for the purpose of fulfilling every industry’s water supply. The study treats the optimal distribution of annual regional water consumption as a systematic dynamic optimization and analyzes its optimizing process, procedure and basic form of its models. The study constructs a regional water consumption system and raises a model to optimize regional water allocation that focuses on the water consumption standard of many categories, including living water, farm irrigation, forestry, animal husbandry, fishery livestock, industry, the public and environmental water demand of the city. Aiming at achieving the maximum comprehensive benefits of regional water consumption when dealing with its structure and habits, the optimal distribution model of regional water is devised after adopting the dynamic optimized distribution method to optimize the regional water consumption. As is shown by the research result, when applied to the regional water distribution optimization, this model can well optimize the distribution in every region and industry. It can thus coordinate among every system of water demand and supply in every region. This project study is significantly meaningful to ensure the scientific and reasonable water use in a region. It is also crucial to the sustainable utilization of water and sustainable development of society.
Structure Optimization and Performance Analysis of Subsea High
Pressure Wellhead Metal Seal
Authors: Xiao Wensheng , Hou Chao , Liu Jian , Luan Bo , Wang Hongyan
Published: September 2015

Security and reliability are the main focus of annular metal seal assembly. It is concluded that the factors
influence sealing performance of annular metal seal assembly most in view of working conditions of annular metal seal
assembly. Taking major influencing factors with response surface method (RSM) analysis, and determining coefficient of
regression analysis with finite element method (ANSYS) experiment. Second-order corresponding model is established
and the best corresponding interval is concluded. Getting the reasonable values of bulge radius r and loading F on the
premise of guarantee the y value and providing theoretical guidance for field operation combined with metal sealing seal
principles and experimental research.
Shift Force Loading Rules Research for Automated Mechanical
Transmission
Authors: Bo Li , Wenqing Ge , Yiqiang Zhao , Shanshi Chen
Published: September 2015

To improve the system reliability and reduce the shift shock of Automated Mechanical Transmission, shift
force loading rules is researched on the basis of strength and stiffness analyzing of shift fork. The shift mechanism of A-5-
speed manual transmission is used as an example to illustrate the simulation, co-relation and validation of the shift fork
strength and stiffness. The three-dimensional model of the shift fork is built and the finite element analysis model based
on ABAQUS is established. And then, the influence of strength and stiffness of shift fork on the shift force loading rules
can be analyzed. The fork tends to deflect with the synchronizer sleeve during synchronization thus acting as a damper
and storing energy, the maximum instantaneous force output by driving device under the strength requirement of shift fork
is determined. The shift control strategy is corrected according to the stiffness analysis of shift fork. The results shown
that, in order to meet the strength requirement of shift fork, the maximum instantaneous force for the 4 gear fork is
1185.5N. In the same time, the maximum deformation on fork legs is 0.617 mm. The research provides a sufficient
theoretical basis for formulating the shift control strategy.
Research on the Three Dimensional Detection Technology for Magnetic
Sheet in Industrial Production
Authors: Zhang Wenbo , Yang Chuo , Feng Yongxin , Zhang Deyu
Published: September 2015

This study proposes a three-dimensional size detection system for inerratic magnetic sheets according to specific
size parameter requirements, such as the volume of the industrial micro magnetic sheet. Based on the noise interference
generated by the corresponding detection environment of the magnetic sheet, a hybrid filtering method for the inerratic
magnetic sheet is also proposed here, which effectively implements denoising filtering. In the image edge detection module,
the edge detection operator most suitable for detecting image edge extraction is selected, and in order to realize the
inerratic shape detection in Hough transform, the measurement function of size parameters (including the top surface radius,
tilt angle of the profile and top surface, profile thickness, and volume) for the micro cylinder magnetic sheet are designed
and implemented. Measurement data, gathered through repeated experiments, builds a more effective detection
system for magnetic sheet size than traditional methods at the millimeter level.
Study on the Design Method of Impeller on Low Specific Speed Centrifugal
Pump
Authors: Liu Jianhua , Zhao Xiangyang , Xiao Miaoxin
Published: September 2015

In this work, the comparative study has been done for five kinds of design methods of the low specific speed
centrifugal pump impeller adopted numerical simulation method by software of Fluent, so that the problems can be
solved. Many different design methods exists for the low specific speed centrifugal pump impeller, which caused the
design effect difficult to control. The numerical simulation method based on the Reynolds time averaged N-S equations
(RANS) and RNG κ-ε turbulence models. Results revealed the inner flow pattern of these impeller, and these results were
verified by external characteristic experiment. The research results showed that the design method, which adopted
compound impeller with short blades and these short blades turned to the suction surface of long blades. Results proved
that its flow distribution is even and external characteristic curve is more ideal.
An Automatically Queuing and Positioning Technology Based on
Conveyor Belt
Authors: Ziling Ma , Yongxing Hao
Published: September 2015

In order to reduce complexity of a manipulator system for grabbing and locating a product shaped like a mobile
phone, with uncertain position and posture on the conveyor belt, an automatically queuing and positioning technology has
been proposed, which can implement the functions of product storage, queuing and positioning. By analyzing the
application environment, mobile phones’ automatic queuing solutions are proposed, and theoretical models regarding
mobile phones’ automatic queuing are designed. Using non-fixed point collision theory based on rigid body dynamics,
collision models between the phone and the phones’ automatically queuing mechanical device model and between two
phone are analyzed, and the collision equations are deduced. The simulation analyses for all kinds of automatically
queuing solutions for are implemented based on ABAQUS. The results show that multi-adaptive V-groove can queue and
position the mobile phone with uncertain position and posture efficiently and automatically.
Experimental Study and Comparative Numerical Analysis of the Mechanical Behavior of Extended End-Plate Connections with End-Plate Stiffeners
Authors: Chen Shizhe , Zhou Chao , Wang Zhan
Published: September 2015

To investigate the influence of end-plate stiffeners on the initial rotational stiffness of extended end-plate
internal joints, an experimental program was carried out to investigate the rotational behavior of the joints. Two finite
element methods (FEMs) were proposed using ABAQUS software. The stress distribution, plastic development, and
deformation characteristics of extended end-plate joints were determined from a comparison of the results of experiments
and numerical analyses, and a calculation method for the initial tensile stiffness of the end-plate stiffener was proposed.
This investigation presented herein demonstrates that (1) the angle and thickness of the stiffener strongly influence the
initial tensile stiffness of the joint; and (2) component-based FEMs can accurately reflect the entire loading process of
joints in a simple and efficient manner.
Initial Jet Before the Onset of Effective Electrospinning of Polymeric
Nanofibers
Authors: Xu Lei , Han Wen , Zheng Gaofeng , Wu Dezhi , Wang Xiang , Sun Daoheng
Published: September 2015

Initial jet usually has a large primary droplet hanging at flying end before the onset of effective electrospinning.
The primary droplet is undesired as its diameter is several orders of magnitude higher than that of electrospun nanofibres.
A new method is used to derive micro-scaled initial jet and fine primary droplet under applied small-aperture needle by
utilizing low solution flow rate and pre-applied electric potential before the extrusion of polymeric solution out of the
needle. Small-aperture needle reduces the base of conical pendant, while low solution flow rate prevents a fluidic inrush
into conical pendant. The pre-applied electric potential preforms a miniature liquid cone, as an origin of initial jet, within
the needle. The conic preformation reduces the formation time of Taylor cone in order to escape from a swollen Taylor
cone under a continuous inflow of polymeric solution. The miniature conical pendant grows so acute that it emits fine
primary droplet rapidly from its tip with accumulated ions. Carrying primary droplet, thin initial jet experiences axial
elongation and circumferential rotation in the space.
Analysis of a Kinematic Model for a Forestry Six-Wheeled Luffing Articulated Vehicle Chassis
Authors: Dongtao Han , Jinhao Liu , Jiangming Kan , Weiguo Tang
Published: September 2015

The chassis is a key component of forestry vehicular equipment that directly determines its ability to drive and
climb in rough mountainous or forested terrain. A six-wheeled luffing articulated chassis was designed to scale obstacles
on forested land. This paper discusses the use of the Devanit-Hartenberg method to establish a kinematic model for this
vehicle chassis; positive solutions of the kinematic model were then applied to an analysis of the luffing capabilities of the
six-wheeled luffing articulated chassis. Theoretical calculations, simulations, and experimental results showed that the
established kinematic model can be applied to the development and production of forestry equipment.
Thermal Error Prediction and Compensation of YK3610 Hobbing
Machine Based on BP Neural Networks
Authors: Guo Qianjian , Xu Rufeng , Qi Xiaoni
Published: September 2015

In this study, error compensation technology was proposed to reduce thermal errors of a gear hobbing machine,
and one experiment was carried out to verify the compensation effect. Different thermal sources were used as modeling
variables, and a prediction model of thermal errors was presented based on back propagation (BP) neural networks. In
order to solve local minimum problem of BP neural networks, ant colony algorithm was used for training its link weights.
Finally, one test system was developed based on the presented model, and an experiment was fulfilled. The result shows
that prediction performance of the model is very well, and the residual error is less than 5 μm after compensation.
Experimental Study of Chemical Flooding of Suizhong 36-1 Oilfield
Authors: Yanfu Pi , Xiaosai Guo , Yanming Pi , Peng Wu
Published: September 2015

Aim at the reservoir characteristics of Suizhong 36-1 Oil Field, this paper has developed typical
two-dimensional physical model in parallel between the layers and studied the macroscopic displacement effect of
polymer flooding and binary compound flooding, and studied the interlayer spread law and oil displacement
efficiency of polymer flooding and binary combination flooding by using saturation monitoring system deeply. The
results show that: when the multiples of pore volume injected for polymer was 0.3 after water flooding, the recovery
efficiency increased by 10.3%, and when the multiples of pore volume injected for binary combination flooding was
0.3 after polymer flooding and the recovery efficiency could also increase by 19.3%, and the effect of enhanced oil
recovery was obvious during the binary combination flooding and polymer flooding; Saturation monitoring data
showed that there formed oil wall and increased the flow resistance and expanded the swept volume during the
stage of polymer flooding and binary combination flooding, effective use of low-permeability layer was the key to
improve oil recovery.
Study on Inversion of Mining Subsidence Based on PSO-BP Algorithm for
Okada Model
Authors: Jifeng Wu , Zhiqiang Yang , Xiaolong Wu
Published: September 2015

This paper makes a systematic research of the Okada dislocation theory. The application of the theory in the
mining subsidence is analyzed. And the method of inversion based on the PSO-BP algorithm has been presented. Through
searching for the simulating value of the objective function and comparing with the field observation, the mining subsidence
mechanism and movement law was studied in depth.
The Landscape Design of Mountain Village in Western China During the Process of New-Type Urbanization
Authors: Na Wei , Hua Lu , Wei Wang
Published: September 2015

The unique geography and climatic condition determines the landscape environment characteristics of mountain
village in western China. In recent years, with the fast development of the urban-rural integration and urbanization
process, the traditional rural landscape is gradually transiting to the modern rural landscape. In the course of transformation,
the natural patches and semi-natural patches that can reflect local culture are replaced constantly by artificial patches,
which makes natural elements decrease and fade away in rural landscape. Aiming at this phenomenon, paying attention to
ecology, protecting the local culture and fully utilizing natural landscape resources gradually become the dominant idea of
rural landscape planning under the impetus of the new-type urbanization core concepts. This paper investigates and explores
the existing problems in rural landscape environment, analyzes its influencing factors and control elements and
proposes design strategies to cope with the situation. The design strategies with local native soil characteristic are realized
in Li jiayuan village in Qing muchuan town project, and it can play the role of demonstration in the design of rural landscape.
An Overview of Experimental Research on the Welded Joints between Nointernal
Diaphragm Square/Rectangular Tubular Columns and H-Beams
Authors: Zhang Z.H. , Shu X.P.
Published: September 2015

Plentiful studies are reported on the semi-rigid behavior of joints between open section H shaped beam and
column, but researches focusing on the semi-rigid performance of joints between square/rectangular hollow section
(SHS/RHS) column-to-H shaped beam is to lag a lot. Most studies shows that when the SHS/RHS column connecting the
H beam without internal diaphragm, the joints behavior is semi rigid in most cases. The details of welded connection between
SHS/RHS column-to-H beam without internal diaphragm is diverse, and factors influencing the properties are
complicated. This paper reviews the current research situation about such type of connections. The classification of connections
is conducted basing on the main detail characteristics. The capacity research status of different detail connections
is analyzed and summarized. The aspects for further research are presented.
Dynamic Optimization Research on the Section Morphology of Large-span Tunnels in Shallow Rock Mass
Authors: Hui Wang , Qing-biao Wang
Published: September 2015

The optimization design of the section morphology of large-span tunnels plays an important role for saving cost
and improving the engineering stability. The flat ratio of tunnel which is as an important control index, its rationality is
the key problem in the design of tunnels. Program with Python to set up the dynamic calculation model of a large-span
tunnel planned to be constructed which can be run and analyzed in ABAQUS. The MATLAB language is used to compile
the optimization analysis program based on genetic algorithm, and then the dynamic calculation model is embedded into
it. Using excavation area, plastic zone, ground surface settlement, vault subsidence, etc. as optimal objective to make dynamic
analysis for the model and put forward the reasonable flat ratio of the supported project. The result of this paper
provides reference for the section optimization design of similar tunnel engineering.
Behavior Analysis on the Security Object of the Public Rental Housing
Authors: Zhang Yanhai , Wang Yaoiwu
Published: September 2015

With the establishment of the system of public rental housing supply, the vulnerable group would get great
benefit in the promotion of social welfare, however, due to the existence of price gap and the imperfection of the public
rental housing system, the game relationship formed between the management authority and the security object. Based on
the definition to the security object in the public rental housing, the specific classification to the security object was analyzed
at first, and then the motivation of the security object to obtain the unjust enrichment was discussed from the perspective
of policy and the behavior. To stimulate the relationship and interaction between the management authority and
the security object, a dynamic game model was presented in the context of basic hypothesis, the evolutionary strategy was
summarized after the game process analysis. The possible paths to prevent from the behavior of free-riding of the security
object was finally concluded.
A Sort of New Improved Algorithm For Total Least Square
Authors: Yonghe Deng
Published: September 2015

Aim to blemish of total least square algorithm based on error equation of virtual observation, this paper put
forward and deduced a sort of new improved algorithm which selects essential unknown parameters among designing matrix,
and then, doesn’t consider condition equation of unknown parameters among designing matrix. So, this paper perfected
and enriched algorithm, and sometimes, new method of this paper is better. Finally, the results of examples showed
that new mothod is viable and valid.
Empirical Analysis Between Economic Growth and Energy Consumption Based on the Perspective of Industrial Structure
Authors: Yehong Shu , Yucheng He
Published: September 2015

Energy is an important material basis for social and economic development. With the rapid economic
development, energy is increasingly becoming an important issue of socio-economic development. As China's "two-oriented
society" pilots Hunan Province, a major breakthrough occurred in the transformation of economic growth,
adjusting the industrial structure and promoting energy conservation and environmental protection, but still faces shortage
of energy supply and demand and supply imbalances, impacting on sustainable economic development. This paper
introduces the economic growth based on the previous results and summarized the relationship between energy
consumption and classification; also introduces the theory of economic growth, industrial structure and related
econometric models providing a theoretical basis and methods of analysis for this study. Secondly, through the relevant
data collected and selected first from second and third industry time series data of economic growth and energy
consumption of the 1990-2013 year of Hunan Province, the paper established econometric model of industrial structure
and the relationship between energy consumption and economic growth in the analysis of the results obtained: the
secondary industry is the leading cause of long-term increase in energy consumption which in turn is the driving force of
the tertiary industry development. Finally, the relevant suggestions are made for industrial restructuring and for ensuring
security of energy supply perspective.
The shape of the polarization curve and diagnostic criteria for control of the metal electrodeposition process
Authors: Popov Konstantin , Zivkovic Predrag , Jokic Bojan , Nikolic Nebojsa
Published: September 2015

The simulated shapes of the polarization curves were correlated with the type
of metal electrodeposition process control in a function of the exchange
current density to the limiting diffusion current density (j0/jL) ratios.
Diagnostic criteria based on the j0/jL ratios were established. For j0/jL>
100, the system is under the ohmic control. In the range 1 < j0/jL ? 100
there is the mixed ohmic-diffusion control. The pure diffusion control
appears in the range 0.1 < j0/jL ? 1. For j0/jL ? 0.1, the system is
activation controlled at the low overpotentials. The proposed diagnostic
criteria were verified by comparison of the simulated curves with
experimentally recorded ones and by morphological analysis of deposits
obtained in the different types of metal electrodeposition process control.
Drug-related problems in patients with osteoporosis
Authors: Ilic Darko , Bukumiric Zoran , Jankovic Slobodan
Published: September 2015

Background/Aim. Drug-related problems are especially frequent among patients
suffering from non-communicable diseases, like osteoporosis, leading to
suboptimal treatment response. The aim of this study was to identify
drug-related problems in patients with osteoporosis. Methods. This
cross-sectional prospective study was conducted in January 2014 on
outpatients with osteoporosis from three health facilities in Belgrade,
Serbia. The patients included in the study were older than 50 years, and they
were offered an anonymous questionnaire with open-ended questions. Results.
There were 355 study participants, 329 (92.7%) females and 26 (7.3%) males.
The patients who experienced at least one osteoporotic fracture (n = 208)
were significantly less adherent to the therapy, less engaged in sports and
regular physical activities, and more prone to nutrition with inadequate
intake of calcium and vitamin D than patients without fractures (n = 147).
Conclusion. The effectiveness of osteoporosis treatment is decreased by
several drug-related problems encountered by both physicians and patients.
However, the majority of the drug-related problems could be greatly
influenced by appropriate educational programs.
The attitudes of medical students towards rare diseases: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Medic Branislava , Divac Nevena , Stopic Bojan , Savic-Vujovic Katarina , Glisic Andreja , Cerovac Natasa , Stojanovic Radan , Srebro Dragana , Prostran Milica
Published: September 2015

Background/Aim. Rare diseases are chronic, degenerative and may lead to
permanent disability. We aimed to assess knowledge and attitudes of the 3rd
and 6th year medical students towards the treatment of rare diseases in
Serbia. Methods. In this cross-sectional study, two samples of students were
questioned for a survey: 350/446 (78.48%) students of the 3rd year, and
242/517 (46.81%) students of the 6th year. Results. Sixth year students
estimated that they were more informed on the issue analyzed than the 3rd
year students (median value of 4 and 3, interquartile range of 3-5, and 1-4,
respectively; p < 0.05). However, a significant percentage of participants
estimated incorrectly the prevalence of rare diseases according to the
European Union standards (3rd year - 42.68%, 6th year - 49.55%). Core
curriculum subjects were the main source of information on rare diseases (3rd
year - 63.14%; 6th year - 92.14%). Our participants agreed that the most
important problems are the following: high drug prices, difficult access to
drugs and lack of public information. Students found, without any
differences, that community access to effective drugs for rare disease should
be improved (median value - 10, interquartile range 8-10 in both groups, p <
0.05). In order to improve pharmacotherapy of rare diseases in Serbia, the
participants suggested establishment of a National Plan for Rare Diseases,
approval of more appropriate drugs, simplified access to appropriate
medicines, and more rapid diagnostics. Conclusion. It is necessary to improve
the knowledge and attitudes of medical students towards pharmacotherapy of
rare diseases.
Gender-related differences in clinical presentation, electrocardiography signs, laboratory markers and outcome in patients with acute pulmonary embolism
Authors: Obradovic Slobodan , Dzudovic Boris , Rusovic Sinisa , Subota Vesna , Obradovic Dragana
Published: September 2015

Background/Aim. Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is a potentially life threating
event, but there are scarce data about genderrelated differences in this
condition. The aim of this study was to identify gender-specific differences
in clinical presentation, the diagnosis and outcome between male and female
patients with PE. Methods. We analysed the data of 144 consecutive patients
with PE (50% women) and compared female and male patients regarding clinical
presentation, electrocardiography (ECG) signs, basic laboratory markers and
six-month outcome. All the patients confirmed PE by visualized thrombus on
the multidetector computed tomography with pulmonary angiography (MDCTPA),
ECG and echocardiographic examination at admission. Results. Compared to the
men, the women were older and a larger proportion of them was in the third
tertile of age (66.0% vs 34.0%, p = 0.008). In univariate analysis the men
more often had hemoptysis [OR (95% CI) 3.75 (1.16-12.11)], chest pain [OR
(95% CI) 3.31 (1.57-7.00)] febrile state [OR (95% CI) 2.41 (1.12-5.22)] and
pneumonia at PE presentation [OR (95% CI) 3.40 (1.25-9.22)] and less likely
had heart decompensation early in the course of the disease [OR (95%CI) 0.48
(0.24-0.97)]. In the multivariate analysis a significant difference in the
rate of pneumonia and acute heart failure between genders disappeared due to
strong influence of age. There was no significant difference in the
occurrence of typical ECG signs for PE between the genders. Women had higher
level of admission glycaemia [7.7 mmol/L (5.5-8.2 mmol/L) vs 6.9 mmol/L
(6.3-9.6 mmol/L), p = 0.006] and total number of leukocytes [10.5 x 109/L
(8.8-12.7 x 109/L vs 8.7 x 109/L (7.0-11.6 x 109/L)), p = 0.007]. There was
a trend toward higher plasma level of brain natriuretic peptide in women
compared to men 127.1 pg/mL (55.0-484.0 pg/mL), p = 0.092] vs [90.3 pg/mL
(39.2-308.5 pg/mL). The main 6-month outcomes, death and major bleeding, had
similar frequencies in both sexes. Conclusion. There are several important
differences between men and women in the clinical presentation of PE and
basic laboratory findings which can influence the diagnosis and treatment of
PE.
Relapse of Takayasu arteritis as a cause of suicidal poisoning and subsequent major ischemic stroke successfully treated with thrombolytic therapy
Authors: Komatina Nenad , Lepic Toplica , Labovic Boban , Stevovic Tatjana , Petronijevic Milan , Radovinovic-Tasic Sanja , Obradovic Dragana
Published: September 2015

Introduction. Takayasu arteritis (TA) is a rare large vessel arteritis,
affecting primarily aorta and its major branches. Its clinical manifestations
can vary significantly - from asymptomatic to serious vascular events. Acute
neurological complications are frequent at the onset of the disease and in
relapses. Anxiety and depression are more frequent in TA patients than in
general population as well as during relapses. Prevalence of transient
ischemic attack or ischemic stroke in TA patients is approximately 10-20%.
Case report. We presented a patient with TA that began with a depressive
episode resulting in attempted suicide by bromazepame poisoning. This was
subsequently followed by major ischemic stroke caused by thrombosis of the
left middle cerebral artery (probably due to aortic arch embolism)
successfully treated with intravenous thrombolysis. Conclusion. Intravenous
thrombolysis appears to be safe and effective in patients with TA and stroke.
Evaluation of serum amyloid A and haptoglobin concentrations as prognostic indicators for horses with inflammatory disease examined at a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Westerman Trina L. , Tornquist Susan J. , Foster Crystal M. , Poulsen Keith P.
Published: September 2015

OBJECTIVE To evaluate use of serum amyloid A (SAA) and haptoglobin concentrations as prognostic indicators for horses with inflammatory disease in regard to euthanasia, complications, and hospitalization duration and cost.

ANIMALS 20 clinically normal horses and 53 horses with inflammatory disease.

PROCEDURES Total WBC count, neutrophil count, and fibrinogen, SAA, and haptoglobin concentrations were determined for clinically normal horses and horses with suspected inflammatory disease. Clinicopathologic values at admission were compared to test the use of SAA and haptoglobin concentrations in predicting euthanasia, complications, and hospitalization duration and cost. Haptoglobin and SAA concentrations of 22 horses were monitored during hospitalization to test the use of serial measurements in predicting survival and complications.

RESULTS Neutrophil count and SAA and haptoglobin concentrations were significantly different at admission for horses with inflammatory disease, compared with those for clinically normal horses. Horses with colitis and peritonitis had significantly higher SAA and haptoglobin concentrations than clinically normal horses. A moderate positive correlation (r = 0.355) between hospitalization duration and haptoglobin concentration was identified. Horses with an increase in SAA concentration between 24 and 72 hours after admission, compared with admission SAA concentration, were significantly more likely (OR, 7.0; 95% confidence interval, 1.1 to 45.9) to be euthanized or develop complications.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Concentrations of SAA and haptoglobin at admission were not significantly correlated with outcome in horses with inflammatory conditions. Acute-phase proteins likely have more utility in serial analysis rather than testing at a single time point for horses with inflammatory conditions.
Water resources of the island of Korčula (Croatia): availability and agricultural requirement / Zasoby wodne wyspy Korčula (Chorwacja): dostępność i potrzeby rolnictwa
Authors: Ljubenkov Igor
Published: September 2015

The island of Korčula is located along the eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea. It has Mediterranean climate with mild and wet winters and hot and dry summers. The island's water supply has been managed in two ways: through a pipeline from the mainland and by drawing groundwater. The island's water is mainly used for drinking and for sanitary needs of the population and tourists, and only a small part is used in industrial production. Tourism causes high seasonal water needs which can hardly be met with the existing water supply system. Agriculture has long tradition on the island. Today, 3 500 ha are cultivated which is about 12.7% of island area, while only 20 ha are irrigated. Therefore total agricultural production is variable and mainly depends on climate. Due to more often and stronger droughts, yields are decreased which causes high economical losses. This paper deals with island's natural features, water needs especially for agriculture, water resources management and finally it suggests measures and activities to improve existing water use.
Are fishponds really a trap for nutrients? – a critical comment on some papers presenting such a view / Czy stawy rybne są rzeczywiście pułapką dla pierwiastków biogennych? – krytyczny komentarz do pewnych prac prezentujących taki pogląd
Authors: Kufel Lech
Published: September 2015

There is still a controversy about the environmental impact of fishponds, especially on their ability to retain nutrients. This paper presents some basic rules of nutrient cycling in running and stagnant waters and the biotic and abiotic transformation of nutrients delivered to dam reservoirs and fishponds. Based on these common properties of eutrophic stagnant waters, some critical remarks are presented on papers that claim to prove the capacity of fishponds to retain nutrients (mainly nitrogen) during fish production and after pond drainage. Finally, some ways of reducing negative environmental impacts of fishpond effluents are described as an indirect evidence that such impacts really pose a threat to water quality
Water and physical characteristics of irrigated soils in the Massif of Mugan-Salyan / Woda i charakterystyki fizyczne nawadnianych gleb w Masywie Mugaw-Salyan
Authors: Mustafayev Mustafa Gilman
Published: September 2015

Detailed information about the water and physical properties of irrigated soils in the Massif of Mugan- -Salyan is given in the paper. Results of the study showed differences in the soil properties. The field water capacity of soil in the zone was 25.32-30.30% or 1.26-1.56 g·cm-3, particle density was 2.53-2.88 g·cm-3, porosity - 44.16-54.20%; clay content - 22.54-70.10% and the velocity of soaking the soil with water ranged between 9.24 and 55.84 cm·h-1. Such variability of the indices points to a need for reclamation measures in the soils.
Methane emission from peat-muck soil in the Biebrza River valley in relation to ground water level and fertilisation / Emisja metanu z gleby torfowo-murszowej w dolinie Biebrzy w zależności od poziomu wody gruntowej i nawożenia
Authors: Turbiak Janusz
Published: September 2015

The paper presents results of a two-year study on methane emission carried out in lysimetric station situated on Kuwasy peatland in the Biebrza River valley. The aim of this study was to estimate the amount of methane emission from peat-muck soil in relation to ground water level and fertilisation. Methane emission was determined with the chamber method using photo-acoustic probe. Methane emission significantly depended on the ground water level. The largest CH4 emission was found at full saturation of soil with water. With the decrease of ground water table the emission of methane decreased. Mineral fertilisation increased CH4 emission. At ground water table depth of 50 cm, CH4 emission from fertilised variant was by 42.3% bigger than from non- -fertilised variant. Peat-muck soils overgrown by meadows in the Biebrza River valley were found to be an important source of methane emission. In the vegetation period at ground water table depths of 0, 25, 50 and 75 cm methane emission was 502, 361, 198, 141 kg·ha-1·(210 d)-1, respectively
The Impact of Cloud Computing on Information Systems Agility
Authors: Sawas Mohamed , Watfa Mohamed
Published: September 2015

As businesses are encountering frequent harsh economic conditions, concepts such as outsourcing, agile and lean management, change management and cost reduction are constantly gaining more attention. This is because these concepts are all aimed at saving on budgets and facing unexpected changes. Latest technologies like cloud computing promise to turn IT, that has always been viewed as a cost centre, into a source of saving money and driving flexibility and agility to the business. The purpose of this paper is to first compile a set of attributes that govern the agility benefits added to information systems by cloud computing and then develop a survey-based instrument to measure these agility benefits. Our research analysis employs non-probability sampling based on a combination of convenience and judgment. This approach was used to obtain a representative sample of participants from potential companies belonging to various industries such as oil & gas, banking, private, government and semi-governmental organizations. This research will enable decision makers to measure agility enhancements and hence compare the agility of Information Systems before and after deploying cloud computing.
Full-Scale Implementation and Testing of Full-Depth Precast Bridge Deck Panels
Authors: Mante David M. , Abbas Hassan H. , Ramey George E. , Barnes Robert W.
Published: September 2015

A bridge deck panel system using nonprestressed full-depth precast concrete bridge deck panels with continuous shear pockets was investigated. First, the research team performed conceptual improvement, design, detailing, and fabrication studies on a specific deck replacement system (System CD-2) previously proposed by NCHRP Project 12-65 researchers. Key improvements to the CD-2 deck panel system included modifications to the transverse joint coupler for ease of construction and the addition of a longitudinal staged-construction joint to expedite bridge deck replacement projects. Next, an experimental program was carried out to construct and perform service-level load testing on a full-size precast deck panel assemblage that incorporated the refinements. On the basis of static and cyclic loading test results, it was found that the modified CD-2 deck panel system as a whole performed satisfactorily with regard to AASHTO serviceability requirements.
Full-Scale Testing and Performance Evaluation of Rockfall Concrete Barriers
Authors: Patnaik Anil , Musa Abdisa , Marchetty Srikanth , Liang Robert
Published: September 2015

Rockfall hazards are present throughout the state of Ohio. The Ohio Department of Transportation (DOT) employs Test Level 3 standard concrete barriers along the edges of roadways to contain rockfalls in high-risk areas. The performance of these barriers under impact from rocks on the ditch side and their effectiveness for rockfall catchment are relatively unknown. Full-scale impact tests were performed on concrete barriers to simulate the effects of impacts from rocks of various sizes and shapes. Numerous impacts were made at different sections and levels of the barriers to test their structural integrity and energy absorption capacity. The results from this study revealed that 32-in.-high precast concrete barriers with current Ohio DOT details had an impact energy absorption capacity of up to 24 kJ under a single impact. The corresponding energy absorption capacity of 42-in.-high cast-in-place concrete barriers was about 56 kJ under a single impact. Moreover, these barriers experienced severe cracking and spalling of concrete under impact loading. Several design modifications were studied in this test program. These modifications included reducing the spacing of rebars and rebar sizes, using welded wire fabric, and using different types of fibers in the concrete. The tests conducted on the modified concrete barriers showed an impact energy increase of more than 100% with the modifications suggested in this study. Barriers made from the modified designs also experienced significantly reduced extent and severity of cracking and a reduction in spalling and splashing of concrete under impact loading.
Implications of Overload Distribution Behavior on Load Rating Practices in Steel Stringer Bridges
Authors: Gheitasi Amir , Harris Devin K.
Published: September 2015

With the ever-increasing demands for transporting goods and services, transportation officials are facing a growing challenge with the safety of in-service bridges under the passage of oversized and overweight vehicles. Current load rating practices provide the basis for evaluating the operational safety of in-service structures by using engineering judgments and simplifying assumptions. However, a true measure of the system performance under the impact of irregular loading scenarios requires knowledge of different aspects of the system-level characteristics, including the lateral load distribution behavior. In this study, nonlinear finite element analysis has been implemented to evaluate the evolution of load-distributing mechanisms in two representative in-service structures subjected to overloads in the state of Michigan. In addition, rating factors were defined for the selected structures on the basis of the load and resistance factor rating methodology. Results from this study demonstrated that current design and rating practices were overly conservative in predicting the actual distribution behavior and assessing the safety of the in-service structures under the effect of irregular loading conditions. This investigation also highlighted the importance and benefits of implementing a refined method of analysis that can help bridge engineers to support their permit and posting decisions.
Live Load Distribution Factor at the Piers of Skewed Continuous Multicell Box Girder Bridges Subjected to Moving Loads
Authors: Mohseni Iman , Khalim A. R. , Kang Junsuk
Published: September 2015

The multicell box girder bridge is a popular choice of designers because of its large torsional stiffness. The skewness at the support line of bridges has a significant influence on distribution of live loads. The current American bridge design code, AASHTO load and resistance factor design (LRFD), defines several correction factor expressions to account for the skew effect in bridges. In addition, the effect of skewness on reactions of continuous multicell box girder bridges is obtained by using the skew correction factor of shear or by the shear distribution factor of straight bridges, despite a significant disparity between the shear and reaction that is observed in skewed bridges. This study investigated the effect of skewness on the reactions and shear distribution factors for three continuous multicell box girder bridges. There was a significant difference between reactions at the piers and the shear distribution factors of skewed bridges. Thus, a statistical analysis was used to propose new equations for the skew correction factors and the external girder correction factor of shear and reaction to improve the accuracy of the AASHTO LRFD specifications.
Hybrid Jacketing for Rapid Repair of Seismically Damaged Reinforced Concrete Columns
Authors: Fakharifar Mostafa , Chen Genda , Arezoumandi Mahdi , ElGawady Mohamed
Published: September 2015

This study proposes hybrid jacketing for rapid repair of seismically damaged concrete columns for bridge safety. The hybrid jacketing for a reinforced concrete (RC) column is composed of a thin cold-formed steel sheet wrapped around the column and its outside prestressing strands. Although the prestressing strands can prevent buckling of the confining steel sheet, the steel sheet can in turn prevent the prestressing strands from cutting into the concrete. The hybrid jacketing concept was validated with testing of a large-scale RC column with lap splice deficiency typical of pre-1970 bridge constructions in the Central United States. Results from the original and repaired columns were compared for hysteresis loops, strength, stiffness, ductility, and energy dissipation. The hybrid jacketing proved to be effective in restoring structural behavior of the damaged column to prevent bridge collapse. Such a cost-effective solution can be implemented at bridge sites in hours. Design equations to establish the lateral force–displacement relationship of the tested column to design the hybrid jacket are derived in detail.