bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health diagnosis of groundwater environment based on a projection pursuit model
Authors: Ye X. Y. , Wang K. J. , Du X. Q. , Cao J. F.
Published: November 2011

Pollutants from various sources are entering groundwater systems due to changing land use and because groundwater environments are deteriorating at various scales worldwide. The health status of a groundwater environment can be used to indicate the degree of deterioration under natural or manmade stresses. This study proposes a concept for groundwater environment health and sets up an assessment index system to diagnose the health status of a groundwater environment based on a Bossel sustainable development index framework. The index system covers six basic categories (survival, effectiveness, freedom, security, adaptation and coexistence), which indicate various aspects of the health status of a groundwater environment. A projection pursuit (PP) model is developed for the assessment of groundwater environments and PP grade evaluation (PPGE) was used to evaluate the health status of a groundwater environment. The model was applied in Western Jilin province, China as a case study for groundwater environment management.
Opinions and Expectations of Women in the Treatment of Cervical and Uterine Cancer in Spain
Authors: Rodríguez María Angeles Prieto , Suess Astrid , Cerdá Joan Carles March , Carretero María Escudero , Danet Alina
Published: October 2011

Aim: To know the experiences, needs and expectations of women in the treatment of cervical and uterine cancer in the Andalusian Health Service. Methods: Focus groups and in-depth interviews with women being treated for cervical–uterine cancer within the Andalusian Health Service. Analysis with Nudist Vivo 1.0 (QSR International Pty Ltd, Doncaster, Victoria, Australia). Results: The needs and expectations detected were: coherence in the promotion strategies and the presence of a proactive approach by health professionals, availability of comprehensive information and understanding, possibility of expressing to health professionals one's doubts and fears, and of participation in decision-making, technical quality, humane treatment and continuity of care and attention to psychosocial aspects. Conclusion: The knowledge of women in the treatment of cancer of the cervix and uterus plays a crucial part in improving the delivery of these services.
Three-dimensional lattice logic circuits, Part III: Solving 3D volume congestion problem
Authors: Al-Rabadi Anas
Published: October 2011

This part is a continuation of the first and second parts of my paper. In a previous work, symmetry indices have been related to regular logic circuits for the realization of logic functions. In this paper, a more general treatment that produces 3D regular lattice circuits using operations on symmetry indices is presented. A new decomposition called the Iterative Symmetry Indices Decomposition (ISID) is implemented for the 3D design of lattice circuits. The synthesis of regular two-dimensional circuits using ISID has been introduced previously, and the synthesis of area-specific circuits using ISID has been demonstrated. The new multiple-valued ISID algorithm can have several applications such as: (1) multi-stage decompositions of multiple valued logic functions for various lattice circuit layout optimizations, and (2) the new method is useful for the synthesis of ternary functions using three-dimensional regular lattice circuits whenever volume-specific layout constraints have to be satisfied.
Design of quaternary logic systems and circuits
Authors: Bundalo Dusanka , Bundalo Zlatko , Ðordjevic Branimir
Published: October 2011

The principles and possibilities of design of fully quaternary multiple valued combinational logic systems and circuits are described and proposed in the paper. Different ways of design of fully quaternary combinational logic systems and circuits are considered and described first. Then algorithm for automated computerized design of such systems and circuits is considered and proposed. The algorithm gives possibility for synthesis and optimization of quaternary logic systems and circuits. It is applied on design of CMOS quaternary multiple valued logic systems and circuits. The algorithm includes the most important aspects of design of quaternary logic circuits: logic circuit scheme synthesis and logic circuit optimization. Methods for synthesis of quaternary CMOS combinational logic circuits are proposed and described. Also, method for optimization of CMOS quaternary logic circuits, according to operation conditions and needed characteristics, is proposed and described. Design procedure is realized by personal computer using PSPICE for circuit simulation. Computer PSPICE simulation results confirming described methods and conclusions are given in the paper.
Signal processing with continuous Kernel Hough transform
Authors: Turan Jan , Bojkovic Zoran , Filo Peter , Samcovic Andreja , Ovsenik L'ubos
Published: October 2011

The paper deals with new modification of Hough transform - Continuous Kernel Hough transform. Definition of Continuous Kernel Hough transform, image processing, system identification and basics of parameter estimation are presented.
A virtual lab model for an introductory computer science course
Authors: Kantzavelou Ioanna
Published: October 2011

This paper presents a model of a virtual laboratory for an introductory computer science course. The proposed model aims at solving a number of problems involved in the educational procedure of such a course. The model architecture consists of seven modules, each one corresponds to a specific topic of the course. Every module provides several different services in order to assist students to assimilate theory with practical exercises. Preliminary results of partial implementation of the proposed model, show the solution of some problems and better understanding of abstract concepts.
Design of the impact controlling structure applying conventional digital control laws
Authors: Stojic Milic , Matijevic Milan
Published: October 2011

The design of a simplified IMPACT (Internal Model Principle and Control Together) structure comprising conventional digital control laws is presented. The design procedure is accomplished to enable the extraction of a known class of immeasurable external disturbances and easy setting of the controller parameters. In the proposed controlling structure, the set point transient response and speed of disturbance rejection can be adjusted independently. The efficiency and robustness of the proposed controlling structure are verified and tested by the simulation and experimental setup.
A novel power inverter for switched reluctance motor drives
Authors: Grbo Zeljko , Vukosavic Slobodan , Levi Emil
Published: October 2011

Although apparently simpler, the SRM drives are nowadays more expensive than their conventional AC drive counterparts. This is to a great extent caused by the lack of a standardised power electronic converter for SRM drives, which would be available on the market as a single module. A number of attempts were therefore made in recent times to develop novel power electronic converter structures for SRM drives, based on the utilization of a three-phase voltage source inverter (VSI), which is readily available as a single module. This paper follows this line of thought and presents a novel power electronic converter topology for SRM drives, which is entirely based on utilization of standard inverter legs. One of its most important feature is that both magnetizing and demagnetizing voltage may reach the DC-bus voltage level while being contemporarily applied during the conduction overlap in the SRM adjacent phases. At the same time, the voltage stress across the power switches equals the DC-bus voltage. The topology is functional in all operating regimes of the drive. Principle of operation is explained in detail for a three-phase SRM drive and experimental results obtained with a 6/4 switched reluctance motor, are included. Four inverter legs are required in this case. Some considerations, justifying the proposed converter topology from the point of view of the cost, are included.
Recursive least squares method in parameters identification of DC motors models
Authors: Krneta Radojka , Antic Sanja , Stojanovic Danilo
Published: October 2011

The procedure of parameters identification of DC motor model using a method of recursive least squares is described in this paper. To identify the system an experimental measuring of signals was carrying out at input - supply of voltage and output of the system for identification - motor angle speed. For the needs of the experiment, a system has been configured with a motor and an optical encoder whose output is connected with the counter input of acquisition card LCK-6013 which over a block connector CB-68LP makes a connection with a computer. The speed of the motor measured by optical encoder is compared with the speed of identified system in order to confirm the quality of the motor model?s parameters estimation.
One approach to the integration of inertial and visual navigation systems
Authors: Graovac Stevica
Published: October 2011

The algorithm of simultaneous estimation of motion parameters and scene structure using the integrated navigation system consisting from inertial sensors (three rate gyros and three accelerometers) and TV camera has been presented. All mentioned sensors are rigidly fixed to the body of a moving object. It is assumed that the inertial sensors are characterized by constant biases. The recognizable landmarks existing in the scene on known locations in the reference coordinate frame are assumed also. It is enabled by parallel processing of information in two independent navigation systems that they may correct each other, in order to estimate moving object?s linear and angular position relative to the landmark as well as it?s linear and angular velocities in an optimal fashion.
Quaternary regenerative CMOS logic circuits with high-impedance output state
Authors: Bundalo Dusanka , Ðordjevic Branimir , Bundalo Zlatko
Published: October 2011

Principles and possibilities of synthesis and design of quaternary multiple valued regenerative CMOS logic circuits with high-impedance output state are de- scribed and proposed in the paper. Two principles of synthesis and implementation of CMOS regenerative quaternary multiple-valued logic circuits with high-impedance output state are proposed and described: the simple circuits with smaller number of transistors, and the buffer/driver circuits with decreased propagation delay time. The schemes of such logic circuits are given and analyzed by computer simulations. Some of computer simulation results confirming descriptions and conclusions are also given in the paper.
Numerical inversion of the Laplace transform
Authors: Milovanovic Gradimir , Cvetkovic Aleksandar
Published: October 2011

We give a short account on the methods for numerical inversion of the Laplace transform and also propose a new method. Our method is inspired and motivated from a problem of the evaluation of the M?ntz polynomials (see [1]), as well as the construction of the generalized Gaussian quadrature rules for the M?ntz systems (see [2]). As an illustration of our method we consider an example with 100 real poles distributed uniformly on of the proposed method. 1 2 100. A numerical investigation shows the efficiency.
Remarks on systems and differential operators on groups
Authors: Stankovic Radomir , Stankovic Miomir , Moraga Claudio
Published: October 2011

Complexity and large size of contemporary control, communication, and computer systems impose strong challenges to methods of their mathematical modeling, design, and testing. Classical approaches to their formal specification by exploiting theory of systems on groups of real numbers R and complex numbers C, often do not fulfill requirements of practice. For that reason, theory of systems on groups different from R and C has been developed. Differential operators and spectral (Fourier) analysis on groups play the same important role in such systems as in the case of systems modeled by signals defined on R and C. This paper first briefly reviews some aspects of research in system theory on groups and then presents an extension of the notion of Gibbs differentiation to matrix- valued functions on finite non-Abelian groups.
Method and algorithm for the insertion of new transmitter into existing frequency plans for radio communication services
Authors: Rasajski Slavenko
Published: October 2011

This paper deals with the procedure of new transmitter insertion into the existing Plan, including results of transmitter insertion simulation with software support developed for the proposed algorithm. The same procedure can also be applied for other radio communication services using the corresponding plans and technical requirements databases (minimum field protection ratio, etc). The proposed algorithm ensures an efficient and economical use of radio frequency spectrum.
Magnet shape optimization using adaptive simulated annealing
Authors: Brauer Hartmut , Ziolkowski Marek
Published: October 2011

Stochastic methods offer a certain robustness quality to the optimization process. In this paper, the Adaptive Simulated Annealing (ASA) searching techniques are applied to the shape optimization of an electromagnet. The magnetic field is computed using the 2D finite element code FEMM. The aim of optimization is the search for an optimal pole shape geometry leading to a homogeneous magnetic field distribution in the region of interest.
Shallow-buried ring grounding electrodes
Authors: Aleksic Slavoljub , Cvetkovic Zlata , Nikolic Bojana
Published: October 2011

The problem of two shallow-buried ring grounding electrodes of low frequencies is analyzed in this paper. In solving this problem, the ground is assumed as linear, homogeneous and isotropic medium. The equivalent electrodes method, which is very simple numerical method of adequate accuracy of obtained results, is used for calculations. Numerical results are presented both in tables and figures.
The multilevel ant stigmergy algorithm for numerical optimization
Authors: Korosec Peter , Silc Jurij
Published: October 2011

The Multilevel Ant Stigmergy Algorithm (MASA) is a new approach to solving multi-parameter problems based on stigmergy, a type of collective work that can be observed in nature. In this paper we evaluate the performance of MASA regarding its applicability as numerical optimization techniques. The evaluation is performed with several widely used benchmarks functions, as well as on an industrial case study. We also compare the MASA with Differential Evolution, well-known numerical optimization algorithm. The average solution obtained with the MASA was better than a solution recently found using Differential Evolution.
The probability stability estimation of the system based on the quality of the components
Authors: Vidojkovic Bojana , Jovanovic Zoran , Milojkovic Marko
Published: October 2011

The simple and effective method for the probability stability estimation of the system with randomly selected parameters is presented in this paper. Parameter value can be changed under the influence of different factors. The effects of these changes depend on the component quality and can cause the failure of the component and system, as well. The influence of these changes to the system stability is analyzed in this paper, also.
Detection of broken conductor with ground contact faults in medium voltage power networks
Authors: Toader Dumitru , Haragus Stefan , Blaj Constantin
Published: October 2011

A major problem concerning the operation of medium voltage power networks refers to the neutral-point grounding system. Several technical solutions are in use, none of them being completely satisfactory. One criterion to appreciate the efficiency of a grounding system is the ability of the network?s protective system to accurately detect various types of faults such as broken conductor with ground contact faults. This type of fault make a relatively important figure (3 to 10 %) in the total faults statistics for a medium voltage network. In order to detect such faults, the sensed variables are the zero-sequence voltage and the neutral-grounding current. In this paper an analytical and computational analysis is performed to see how various fault and network parameters affect these variables, assuming different grounding systems. Measurements made in two real medium voltage networks show good agreement with the theoretical results.
Digital broadcasting and new services
Authors: Cucej Zarko
Published: October 2011

The paper contain brief overview of a recent progress on digital broadcasting development. Main attention is given to the DVB-H standardisation and to possible services which can DVB-H offer. Also the DVB-H support to the IP data casting and IPTV in general is enlightened. .
Upper bounds of performances guided robust hybrid controller
Authors: Filipovic Vojislav
Published: October 2011

In this paper the multiple models and switching controllers is used for control of system with unmodeled dynamics. The analog part of the system is described by finite set of continuous models with unmodeled dynamics. As a set of controllers is used a finite set of LQ controllers with the prescribed degree of stability. Using linear matrix inequalities it is derived LQ controllers and upper bounds for index of performances. The set of upper bounds is used for creation of switching sequence. For so given switching system the robust asymptotic stability is proved. .
Right-direct (BI) type wide bandpass SC ladder filter with compensation for finite amplifier gain and offset voltage
Authors: Radev Nikolay , Ivanov Kantcho , Stanchev Kalin
Published: October 2011

In this paper gain- and offset-compensated (GOC) modification of a sixth-order right-direct (BI) type wide bandpass switched-capacitor (SC) ladder filter is proposed. It is based on the use of simple and fast operational amplifiers (op amps) with low but precisely known and stable dc gain A. At first, the conventional integrators in the filter are replaced with GOC integrators and the unswitched capacitors in the capacitive loops are split into two capacitors. Subsequently, the nominal op amps gain value A0 is taking into account in the capacitance sizing of some appropriately chosen capacitors. .
Amplitude modulator in class e with the current mirror in emitter circuits of the switching transistor
Authors: Raicevic Andjelija
Published: October 2011

Starting from the fact that the amplitude of the basic harmonics of the current, flowing through load resistor of the class E power amplifier, is proportional to direct current flowing through the collector battery of the switching transistor, an introduction of a current mirror in emitter circuit of the transistor in whose reference branch is situated a generator of modulating voltage is proposed. It can be easily proven that the total current of this mirror, which is also the direct current of the collector battery, has the waveform of the amplitude modulated signal. This amplitude modulator is verified for performance with pSpace model. .
Multiresolution analysis and wavelets on Vilenkin groups
Authors: Farkov Yury
Published: October 2011

This paper gives a review of multiresolution analysis and compactly sup- ported orthogonal wavelets on Vilenkin groups. The Strang-Fix condition, the partition of unity property, the linear independence, the stability, and the orthonormality of 'integer shifts' of the corresponding refinable functions are considered. Necessary and sufficient conditions are given for refinable functions to generate a multiresolution analysis in the L2-spaces on Vilenkin groups. Several examples are provided to illustrate these results. .
Remarks on the development and recent results in the theory of Gibbs derivatives
Authors: Stankovic Radomir , Astola Jaakko
Published: October 2011

This tutorial paper discusses the development of the theory of Gibbs differential operators, and highlights some important older and more and recent results in this area. .
A nullator-norator model-based approach to analog circuit diagnosis
Authors: Gadjeva Elissaveta , Gadzhev Nikolay
Published: October 2011

In the present paper, a model-based nullator-norator approach is developed to automated localization and identification of parametric faults in analog circuits. The Cadence PSpice simulator is used for the computer realization of the diagnosis approach. The fault identification is reduced to parametric analysis in the frequency domain of the diagnosis model. An example is presented to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed approach. .
Modulation-mode and power assignment in broadband MIMO systems
Authors: Ahrens Andreas , Benavente-Peces César
Published: October 2011

Since the capacity of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems increases linearly with the minimum number of antennas at both, the transmitter as well as the receiver side, MIMO schemes have attracted a lot of attention. However, non-frequency selective MIMO links have reached a state of maturity. By contrast, frequency selective MIMO links require substantial further research, leading in this contribution to a joint optimization of the number of activated MIMO layers and the number of bits per symbol along with the appropriate allocation of the transmit power under the constraint of a given fixed data throughput. Our results show that in order to achieve the best possible bit-error rate, not necessarily all MIMO layers have to be activated. .
Assessment of unsymmetrical voltage sag effects on AC adjustable speed drives
Authors: Petronijevic Milutin , Mitrovic Nebojsa , Kostic Vojkan , Jeftenic Borislav
Published: October 2011

This paper analyses the influence of unsymmetrical voltage sags on the increase of torque and speed deviation induction motor adjustable speed drives. The three following general types of induction motor drives control are analyzed: scalar controlled (V/Hz), rotor-field-oriented (RFO) and direct-torque-controlled(DTC). The analytical expression for variations of dc link voltage incorporated into the corresponding drive models and formulas for assessment of current/torque deviation are derived depending on the applied control algorithm. Afterwards, the presented theoretical results for the deterioration of motor drive performance due to voltage sags are validated experimentally. Measurements of sag-caused mechanical vibrations are used for the additional verification of the obtained results. .
Multiplexing H.264 video with AAC audio bit streams
Authors: Murugan Harishankar , Rao Kamisetty , Kim Nyeon
Published: October 2011

This paper has developed a multiplexing-demultiplexing system for H.264 video stream and AAC audio stream that is based on theMPEG-2 framework and uses frame numbers as timestamps. It also provides lip sync after decoding the video and audio bit streams. .
Enhancement of the perceptive quality of the noisy speech signal by using of DFF-FBC algorithm
Authors: Milivojevic Zoran , Balaneskovic Dragisa
Published: October 2011

This paper presents an algorithm for enhancement of the noisy speech signal quality. This algorithm is based on the dissonant frequency filtering (DFF), F#, B and C# in relation to the frequency of the primary tone C (DFF-FBC algorithm). By means of the subjective Mean Opinion Score (MOS) test, the effect of the enhancement of the speech signal quality was analyzed. The analysis of the MOS test results, presented in the second part of this paper, points out to the enhancement of the noisy speech signal quality in the presence of superimposed noises. Especially good results have been found with Husky Voice signal. .
The application of computational electromagnetics to microwave dielectric gauging
Authors: Ida Nathan
Published: October 2011

Gauging of dielectrics the accurate evaluation of material properties and geometrical dimensional measurement are discussed first, followed by application of computational electromagnetic methods including FEM, FDTD and TLM for the simulation and evaluation of properties as well as for the design of devices and testing configurations. Microwave microscopy is used for testing in dielectrics in an open antenna configuration. This is followed by modeling and application of closed and open resonant structures for material properties determination and finally an open resonant structure for accurate determination of rubber thickness in an industrial sensor is described. The use computational electromagnetic tools is seen as indispensable for the design of these testing geometries. .
Magnetic field determination for different block permanent magnet systems
Authors: Vuckovic-Mladenovic Ana , Aleksic Slavoljub
Published: October 2011

The paper presents magnetic field calculation of three characteristic permanent magnet systems, which component parts are block magnets homogeneously magnetized in arbitrary direction. Method used in this publication is based on a system of equivalent magnetic dipoles. The results obtained using this analytical method are compared with results obtained using COMSOL Multiphysics software. Magnetic field and magnetic flux density distributions of permanent magnet systems are also shown in the paper.
Uniform logical cryptanalysis of CubeHash function
Authors: Milic Miodrag , Senk Vojin
Published: October 2011

In this paper we present results of uniform logical cryptanalysis method applied to cryptographic hash function CubeHash. During the last decade, some of the most popular cryptographic hash functions were broken. Therefore, in 2007, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), announced an international competition for a new Hash Standard called SHA-3. Only 14 candidates passed first two selection rounds and CubeHash is one of them. A great effort is made in their analysis and comparison. Uniform logical cryptanalysis presents an interesting method for this purpose. Universal, adjustable to almost any cryptographic hash function, very fast and reliable, it presents a promising method in the world of cryptanalysis.
Recognition of vowels in continuous speech by using formants
Authors: Prica Biljana , Ilic Sinisa
Published: October 2011

Speech consists of acoustic pressure waves created by the voluntary movements of anatomical structures in the human speech production system. These waveforms are broadly classified into voiced and unvoiced speech. Voiced sounds (vowels for example), produce quasi-periodic pulses of air which are acoustically filtered as they propagate through the vocal tract. The main distinction between vowels and consonants is that vowels resonate in the throat. Formants are exactly the resonant frequencies of a vocal tract when pronouncing a vowel. In this paper we attempt to carry out Vowel Recognition through Formant Analysis in Serbian language, wherein we detect which of the five Serbian vowels is spoken by the Speaker. Here we describe a standard approach for classification of vowels in continuous speech based on three formants: F1, F2 and F3. We have investigated the correlations between formants in each vowel and developed the algorithm to reduce the overlap of different vowels in F1-F2 and F2-F3 planes.
Evaluating the Strength of Evidence: How Experience Affects the Use of Analogical Reasoning and Configural Information Processing in Tax
Authors: Magro Anne M. , Nutter Sarah E.
Published: November 2011

Evidence evaluation in accounting often involves both the assessment of evidence relevance and the combination of its relevance and source to assess overall strength. We decompose this strength-assessment judgment into its components—relevance assessment and source and relevance combination—and consider the effects of experience. Participants in our experiment assess the strength and relevance of tax authorities in relation to a client scenario. Contrary to prior research, we find that more-experienced participants exhibit greater use of analogical reasoning when evaluating tax-authority relevance than do less-experienced participants. We find a similar experience effect in the use of configural information processing to combine authority source and relevance, a judgment not previously considered in tax. The effects of experience are particularly important in the current environment as the tax function is a leading cause of material weaknesses and restatements under Sarbanes-Oxley and tax executives cite increasing difficulty in hiring and retaining qualified professionals.

Data Availability: Data are available from the authors on request.
A Fundamental-Analysis-Based Test for Speculative Prices
Authors: Curtis Asher
Published: November 2011

I investigate the possibility that recent price movements include significantly larger speculative components than those observed historically, where speculation is defined as the component of price that does not co-move with fundamentals. Specifically, at the aggregate level, price and accounting fundamentals co-move historically (1979–1993) but do not co-move recently (1994–2008). The lack of co-movement in recent periods is accompanied by a significant reduction in the positive association between ratios of accounting fundamentals-to-price with future market returns. Changes in measurement error in accounting fundamentals do not appear to cause the lack of co-movement in recent periods, and risk- and growth-based explanations are not supported by the data. The results of this study provide evidence of a structural change in the long-run association between price and accounting fundamentals.

Data Availability: Data are available from public sources identified in the study.
Research Report
Authors: Demant Jakob , Houborg Esben
Published: November 2011

The alcohol industry's way to discipline pleasure. Prevention campaigns aimed at Danish youth

AIMS

To analyze how two youth alcohol prevention campaigns funded by the Danish alcohol industry articulate the relationship between alcohol, intoxication and pleasure.

DESIGN

The two campaigns are first analyzed by applying an analytical model developed by Karlsson and Bergmark (2009) to analyze drug prevention campaigns in Sweden. After this a more detailed analysis of how the two campaigns articulate pleasure is done.

Results

Both campaigns recognize recreational motives for consuming alcohol. In both campaigns pleasure is central to the regulation of alcohol consumption among young people. Both campaigns aim to associate alcohol consumption with a disciplined pleasure that does not involve intoxication. In this way alcohol policy becomes a politics of pleasure.

CONCLUSION

Alcohol prevention that aims to moderate alcohol consumption among young people by associating alcohol consumption with disciplined pleasure can be seen as a corporate social responsibility strategy by the alcohol industry. These strategies become relevant to include in order to understand prevention efforts within the national state.
Drinking to Death: Traditional Masculinity, Alcohol and Shame in Finnish Metal Lyrics
Authors: Oksanen Atte
Published: November 2011

AIM

This article analyzes the use of alcohol in Finnish metal music lyrics from the perspective of cultural studies. It explores how alcohol is represented in the lyrics and focuses on the theme of shame and self-destructive drinking.

MATERIAL

Songs by Timo Rautiainen ja Trio Niskalaukaus (n=28), Kotiteollisuus (n=101) and Viikate (n=155) are analysed. Most attention is given to Elegia (2002, Elegy), a song by Timo Rautiainen ja Trio Niskalaukaus.

METHOD

Analysis of the lyrics involves narratology semiotics and cultural theory.

Results

Shame is the common factor in the lyrics and also the root of problem drinking. Alcohol is used as a way to overcome the feelings of shame. In Elegia the son's death caused by drinking brings shame over his mother. The song portrays a traditional Finnish tale of male misfortune. Such tragedies filled with shame are cultural narratives in Finnish culture. They portray alcohol and shame as the root of male problems.

Conclusions

These tragedies leave little hope for the male main characters; recovery is not an option. Understanding such cultural narratives can broaden knowledge of alcohol and drug abuse.
Adding confidence and reducing risk - the role of independent design checking in major projects
Authors: Firth Ian P. T.
Published: October 2011

Responsible clients and designers commission an independent check of their designs, particularly when the scale or complexity of the project requires it. This paper explores the culture of independent checking that exists in the UK, especially in connection with major bridges, and examines the benefits to be gained from such an approach. The cost of adding confidence and reducing risk through such a check is very small compared to the enormous benefits gained, particularly on major projects.

The author draws on his own experience as well as published information to illustrate the importance of establishing such a culture of independent checking everywhere.
Technical Challenges and Solutions in the Management of the Designs in a Motorway Project
Authors: Konstantinidis George , Papazioga Ioanna , Rentzeperis Ioannis , Sarridou-Haitidou Efimia
Published: October 2011

The management of designs for a large-scale and technically demanding project such as the Egnatia Motorway constructed in Greece is not an easy task. Egnatia Odos A.E. was proactive in making strategic decisions and developing appropriate procedures with the aim to overcome any difficulties in this field and ensure high-quality designs within the time and cost restrictions set by the project. This paper presents the company choices and evaluates their effectiveness.
Design of the Golden Ears Bridge
Authors: Bergman Don W. , Radojevic Dusan , Ibrahim Hisham
Published: October 2011

The Golden Ears Bridge, currently under construction, will provide a vital new crossing over the Fraser River, which divides the heavily populated Fraser River Valley near Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

The main bridge is a 968 m long multi-span cable-stayed structure supported by four main river piers with heights up to 80 m. The structure is an unusual hybrid cable-stayed structure, which utilizes a composite steel-concrete deck and relatively flat harped cable-stays with low profile. The bridge has a structural behavior, which is between that of a true cable-stayed bridge and an extradosed bridge. The key features of the main bridge design are described herein.
Earthquake resistance and cost-effectiveness of multi-span bridges
Authors: Tegos Ioannis , Stylianidis Kosmas C. , Mitoulis Stergios , Gavaise Evgenia , Tsitotas Mihail
Published: October 2011

The design of structural systems depends on a wide range of compliance criteria. More specifically, with respect to earthquake resistant bridges, the issue of economy (cost-effectiveness) is mostly affected by the basic concept of their design, namely the selection of the optimum structural system for specific conditions and requirements. The present study focuses on the cost-effectiveness of four different bridge systems: (a) a fully-integral bridge with an innovative full-height integral abutment, (b) a quasi-integral bridge, which was the “reference” system, (c) a semi-integral bridge, and (d) a “floating deck” bridge, whose deck is supported on piers through bearings. The accommodation of both the in-service and the seismic requirements of bridge systems were studied with the objective of minimizing structural and final costs.
Use of FRP Reinforcement constructing diaphragm pit walls
Authors: Speier Ludger , Karpa Gudrun
Published: October 2011

FRP is an anisotropic composite material with a high tensile strength in axial direction and a high resistance against corrosion. The anisotropy of the material is quite advantageous at excavation pits for the starting and finishing processes at automated excavation like tunnel boring machine (TBM) and Pipe jacking. Concepts of design and their economical advantages are demonstrated by means of projects. For the first time in Germany the FRP reinforcement has been used at diaphragm pit walls at the construction of the metro line stations "Brandenburger Tor" and the North-South-Line in Cologne. Based on the derived design method the final design of the diaphragm pit walls was carried out and the successful functionality was checked during construction phase.
Selected engineering structures on the reactivated suburban railway track near Stuttgart
Authors: Kessler-Kramer Christoph
Published: October 2011

In this contribution different types of engineering structures, including anchored and non-anchored retaining walls, bridge construction works, skewed framing buildings, special types of composite beams and steel composite girder of the railway bridge over a federal road will be addressed. These engineering structures are to be modified within the project “reactivation of the suburban railway track between Boeblingen and Renningen” due to the necessity of a second track.
Amsterdam Bijlmer arenA station
Authors: ten Voorde Hans , van Weelden Hans , Beertsen Harry
Published: October 2011

The old Amsterdam Bijlmer station was built in the early seventies and has two metro lines and two railway lines. As a result of the track doubling between Amsterdam and Utrecht, an additional four railway tracks need to be accommodated at this station. The capacity of the old station will then no longer be adequate to deal with the increasing number of passengers. The character of the new station needs to encompass the style and ambitions of the ArenA area in Amsterdam Zuidoost. This has been realized by combining a specific design with the most suitable materials and by integrating different functions. A prerequisite for the design is that the station has to be constructed while the trains continue to run and the passengers must be able to reach the trains in safety and with a minimum of inconvenience. As a result, it was decided to maximise the size of the prefab elements and minimize auxiliary structures for both the concrete and the steel structures.
Long-term behaviour of timber-concrete composite bridges
Authors: Döhrer Antje , Rautenstrauch Karl
Published: October 2011

The construction method using timber-concrete composites became more interesting for bridge constructions in the last years. At the Bauhaus-University Weimar, long-time shear tests as pushout- tests with three different connector types being suitable for bridge constructions were arranged. The paper presents the results of these long-time tests. In analysis of the shear tests a proposal for the creep coefficients of the tested connector types is given. The different time and climatic dependent behaviour of timber and concrete does not only influence the serviceability but also the load bearing capacity of hybrid timber bridges. These effects are investigated using a numerical parametrical study based on a special finite element program.
Influence of sustained and cyclic loading on the bond behavior of pretensioned strands
Authors: Hegger Josef , Bülte Sebastian , Will Norbert
Published: October 2011

Within a current research project the bond behavior of pretensioned strands under sustained and cyclic loading has been analyzed. The influences on the bond anchorage as well as the load redistribution under service conditions have been determined. The results of the experimental investigations including pull-out tests, beam tests as well as tension tests are presented.
Effects of Light Rail Traffic on a 30 year old Cable Stayed Bridge
Authors: Van Bogaert Philippe
Published: October 2011

A 30 year old steel cable stayed bridge is being considered for transformation to carry light rail traffic vehicles. The time history of stresses during the crossing of the vehicles demonstrates that the fatigue resistance of the stiffening girders and stay cables does not constitute an issue for this bridge. However, during the process the fact has appeared that the bridge does not behave as a stay cable system, since the pylons are not separated from the stiffening girders and the system is not cable suspended. In addition, the stiffening girders show unbalanced characteristics due to older design assumptions regarding the effective width of the orthotropic plated deck, contributing to the lateral girder resistance. Concerning the plated deck, patch loading by rail vehicles is excessive for the stiffeners and the web plates of the floor beams, the transformation requiring the use of a concrete slab, connected to the steel structure.
A Review of North American Railway Bridge Research
Authors: Sweeney Robert A. P. , Otter Duane
Published: October 2011

The paper gives a brief overview of current research work undertaken at the North American Facility for Accelerated Service Testing (FAST) railway test facility and on several railroads that are members of the Association of American Railroads (AAR).
Integration of manufacturability in structural optimisation
Authors: Coenders Jeroen , Pearse-Danker Hamish
Published: October 2011

In complex structures, cast nodes are often applied to seamlessly and fluently guide the flow of forces through the joints in the structure. Computational optimisation could play a role to automatically form structural joints, with this kind of flow of forces, as a fast design tool and discovery technique. It could be used to give a crude indication of shape possibilities for the layout of the cast node. Although optimisation methods are quite suitable for the forming of equally stressed low weight structures, currently they do not often include aspects of manufacturability.

This paper explores the first steps taken to include these aspects in optimisation methods in the form of a computational design tool, which uses a modified ESO algorithm to optimise stress, weight and manufacturing criteria, translated to geometrical objectives, such as angles, surface areas, thickness, etc.
Remote monitoring of bridge stay cables
Authors: Geier Roman , Hoffmann Simon , Distl Johann
Published: October 2011

Cable forces are highly important parameters for the structural behaviour of cable stayed bridges. In recent years, several new developments were accomplished to receive more exact and reliable data of these parameters. While such tools are becoming common for inspection of cable stayed bridges, long-term or permanent monitoring of cable forces is still limited to research programs or few outstanding bridges. The Austrian research project ISyS aims to improve and implement the systems for cable force measurements in a way, that permanent monitoring will be affordable and easy interpretable. Beside the use of high-tech sensors and hardware, the combination with other systems like semi-active dampers offer a most promising approach to reach that target. Sensors, processing units and power supply are installed to these dampers to reach their optimum efficiency. The combination with force measurements enables to present a complete solution for stay cables.
Nesciobrug, Amsterdam. A symbol for a new suburb, inspirational and functional
Authors: Low Angus , Ichimaru Yoshikazu
Published: October 2011

Nesciobrug is a key feature of Amsterdam's new showcase suburb of IJburg. The scale of this cycle bridge and the constraints on its alignment pushed the designers towards a dramatic configuration. This paper discusses ways in which the impact of the basic concept was reinforced by adapting its setting and by ensuring that the details were appropriate. The emphasis is on achieving dramatic effect through simplicity.
Cable-stayed Bridge over the Labe at Nymburk
Authors: Kalný Milan , Kvasnička Václav , Němec Pavel , Brnušák Antonín
Published: October 2011

At present the I/38 road passes through the historical centre of Nymburk and due to transit traffic, it brings a heavy traffic load to the city with a narrow city bridge. These circumstances have resulted in the decision to build a new city by-pass northeast of Nymburk including a new bridge over the Labe river. The route of the I/38 road by-pass is situated in the flat plain of the Labe lowlands. Due to the traffic conditions as well as the requirements of the Labe Basin Authority, a main span of 132 m together with a very shallow structural depth for the bridge superstructure were required. This bridge over the Labe is the first cable-stayed bridge in the Czech Republic with two planes of stays and low pylons. This type of so-called „extradosed“ bridge structure represents a transition between the traditional cable-stayed bridge and a bridge with external prestressing tendons.
Planning the future of regional road infrastructure: a case study
Authors: Zonta Daniele , Zandonini Riccardo , Bortot Francesca
Published: October 2011

Since 2004, the Italian Autonomous Province of Trento (APT) has been using a Bridge Management System (BMS) entirely based on reliability concepts. The system includes sections for condition state evaluation, safety assessment and network-level prioritization. During the first years of use of the BMS, the inventory and calibration phases were completed, and currently the system database contains information on the condition and reliability for almost the entire stock. This database is the main source of information used by APT in planning future development of the regional road system. Using this information we can now simulate long-term scenarios for infrastructure development, and critically compare alternative maintenance, repair and reconstruction (MR&R) strategies. This paper illustrates both current use of the APT BMS and application of the system to budget programming in a number of practical cases.
Bridges along highway ring road of Wroclaw
Authors: Biliszczuk Jan , Onysyk Jerzy , Barcik Wojciech , Sadowski Krzysztof , Prabucki Przemyslaw , Szczepański Jacek , Sulkowski Mariusz
Published: October 2011

Highway ring road of Wrocław is a very important part of an urban communication network which is now under modernization work. It will connect the existing A4 highway with the S8 expressway being under construction. The ring road is 26.765 km long. Forty bridge structures were designed along or over it. Total length of highway bridges and viaducts is more than 6 km, that is equivalent to 22% of the whole route.

The longest bridge is a concrete cable-stayed structure over the Odra River. The river flows in its main bed, while inland navigation uses additional channel with two locks. There is an island located between the river and the channel. The planned bridge is 1742 m long and consists of: south flyover 610 m long with continuous eleven span prestressed concrete box structure; main bridge 612 m long with two separate decks connected to a single concrete H-shaped pylon; north flyover 520 m long with continuous girders made of prestressed concrete.
Dynamic design of modular bridge expansion joints by the finite element method
Authors: Ancich Eric
Published: October 2011

Although it is not unusual for modular bridge expansion joints (MBEJ’s) to be designed using the Finite Element Method, it appears that designers have been more concerned with quasi-static modelling rather than the development of a fully dynamic model that reproduces all of the characteristics of an operational MBEJ. The paper reports the calibration of a finite element model of both single support bar and multiple support bar design MBEJ’s using experimental modal analysis and strain gauge data. Once calibrated, the models accurately reproduce the empirical vibrational modes and dynamic strains of the operational joints. Modelled results display acceptable variation with the measured data. As motor vehicle excitation is transient, a unique procedure was developed that utilised measured strain data to simulate the force-time history of a vehicle pass-by. This is described as a ‘virtual dynamic truck pass-by’ and its application to the models permitted the accurate reproduction of all the dynamic characteristics including the dynamic amplification factor. The experimental modal analysis results of the single support bar MBEJ strongly suggested that in some regions, the dynamic response was linear and in other regions, non-linear. A moderately successful attempt was made to reproduce this effect by introducing non-linear stiffness into the model by way of the elastomeric bearings.