bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Study and Application on Girder-Conveying By Track Cable Method for Stiffening Girder of Long-Span Suspension Bridge
Authors: Shen Ruili , Yan Yong , Zhang NianlaiI , Tang Maolin
Published: February 2013

This paper introduces a new construction method for the longitudinal transportation of stiffening girder of long-span suspension bridge, which is called girder-conveying by track cable method, and it is an original erection method for stiffening girder of suspension bridges. The method is applied to carry the stiffening girder longitudinally by girder carrier through traction over a flexible tensile track cable, which serves as a load carrying member suspended under the main cable and connected with suspenders. This new method overcomes the difficulties of traditional method in longitudinal transportation of stiffening girder, hoisting load constraint and poor economical efficiency for long-span suspension bridge construction in mountainous areas. By adopting this new method, the large stiffening girder sections can be conveyed and erected under various orographic condition. The method has been adopted in the construction of Aizhai Bridge in Hunan Province, China.
Modern Railway Stations as New Sophisticated Urban Spaces
Authors: Kido Ewa Maria
Published: February 2013

Railway stations are important elements of the urban infrastructure exerting a substantial influence on the image of the city. The paper shows several examples of new railway stations with innovative structures that have a great impact on their urban surrounding. Such modern stations have appeared as a result of the “station renaissance” trend, promoted by the railway companies.

The reinvented rail travel conferred upon the railway stations several new physical and meaningful dimensions. New urban spaces shaped by the new stations have the size of large metropolitan “station cities”, with attractive architecture and urban links, connected by high-speed railways. The paper examines these stations on the example of Europe and Japan, and concludes that these new transport facilities are not only changing the cityscape, but also are becoming the new diversified urban city centres.
Dynamic Assessment of a Curved Cable-Stayed Bridge Based on Multi-Year Monitoring
Authors: Briseghella Bruno , Chen Airong , Lan Cheng , Mazzarolo Enrico , Ruan Xin , Siviero Enzo , Zordan Tobia
Published: February 2013

In this paper the experimental and theoretical investigation of a curved cable-stayed bridge is presented as the result of a common research activity carried out between the University IUAV of Venice and the College of Civil Engineering of Tongji University, Shanghai, China. The experimental data were made available by the University IUAV of Venice on the basis of a number of ambient vibration tests carried out by the Politecnico di Milano. In-situ tests include monitoring performed in 2006, prior to opening of the bridge to traffic, and after in July 2010 and April 2011. Recorded data highlighted some differences in bridge response over the years, confirmed by changes in modal frequencies and variations of tension in some stays. Towards the aim of identifying the main causes of these variations, comparative analyses were performed though a tuned finite element model of the bridge, to be used as a base for future long-term monitoring of the investigated structure.
The role of CFD in the conceptual design of high rise buildings
Authors: Chok Kermin , Ando Yuya , Vytla V. V. Sunil Kumar
Published: February 2013

This paper discusses the authors’ work of bringing high end computational fluid dynamics (CFD)analysis into the building design process. The authors have used two projects with clustered towers as reference for this effort. Full aerodynamic wind tunnel testing had already been completed and thus a data set was available for comparison. The paper will discuss the CFD methodologies used, successes and challenges. A comparison of wind loads from code calculated, wind tunnel testing and CFD will also be made. Finally, using the insights from the benchmarked CFD processes, the beneficial aerodynamic effects of venting through mid-height atria is examined in a proposed tower.
The Gravel bedding for a foundation of the Busan-Geoje Immersed Tunnel
Authors: Lee Jung sang
Published: February 2013

The GK immersed tunnel as a part of the Busan-Geoje Fixed Link Project, introduced the immersed tunnel method into Korea for the first time. This challenging project completed in 2010 open a new era to link oceans of the world with advanced technology and safety for future use. One of the most challenging construction item was a Screeded gravel bedding for the Immersed tunnel foundation due to very severe site condition. In order to overcome the severe conditon developed new accurate equipment. The gravel bedding was successfully done within the given tolerance have been verified by survey in the tunnel. We hope the techniques learned from the Busan-Geoje Fixed Link Project can be applied to further projects in the near future.
Wind Tunnel Tests of Vibration Control Devices for a Super Long Span Bridge
Authors: Kim Young-Min , Kwak Younghak , Scheller Jörn , Starossek Uwe
Published: February 2013

The efficiency of active damping devices for the control of wind-induced vibrations of a super long span bridge is investigated. Results of numerical simulations are presented and the preparation of wind tunnel tests is described. Both, the well-known linear-motion type active mass damper and the newly developed twin rotor damper are studied.
Wind-resistant study on the steel middle pylon of Taizhou Yangtze River Bridge
Authors: Wang Dalei , Zhang Zhen , Chen Airong
Published: February 2013

The type of three-pylon suspension bridge is applied to more and more large-span bridges. Wind- resistance in design and construction of middle pylon is of great concern for this type of bridge. In this paper, both wind tunnel test and CFD (computational fluid dynamics) are introduced to the wind-resistant study on middle steel pylon of Taizhou Yangtze River Bridge. Through segment sectional model testing and CFD analyzing, more accurate aerodynamic force coefficients are suggested for the pylon’s structure design. Through full aero-elastic model testing, wind-induced vibration is checked, which includes vortex resonance, buffeting and galloping. All these results obtained play an important part in middle pylon’s actual design and construction. In the meantime, they are also meaningful references for other similar middle pylons.
Mechanical Performance of Composite Truss Bridge with Double Decks
Authors: He Jun , Xin Haohui , Liu Yuqing , Ma Biao , Han Bin
Published: February 2013

A new structure form of composite truss bridge which composed of upper and lower concrete decks and truss member is proposed to resolve the traffic jam in cities in this paper. Based on one engineering example of a composite truss bridge with main span of 96.0m，the mechanical behavior including deflection, stress distribution of concrete slab, concrete chord and steel web under different load conditions are investigated. In addition, the joint parts which connect steel truss and concrete slabs are the most important components in structure system. Different joints in terms of structure type and thickness of steel gusset plate are analyzed and determined by finite element analysis to prevent the local stress concentration of the steel gusset plate. All the results of static behavior for composite truss bridge with double decks in this study provide reference for the design and construction of such type bridges.
Design Guidelines for Cable System of Long Span Bridges
Authors: Park Chan Min , Gyun Paik Jong , Shin Sang Hoon , Kim Ho Kyung
Published: February 2013

Based on the active construction market of cable supported bridges, many experiences accumulated in design and construction technologies as well as the development of high strength materials have led the Korean engineer to think about new design scheme and concepts for long span cable supported bridges. Under this background, Super long span bridge R&D center in Korea have developed the reliability based design guideline for super long span bridges which allows 200 years design life and is capable of using high strength cable and high performance steel as well as high performance concrete.
Probability Model Estimation of Aberrant Vessel Trajectory Using VTS Data
Authors: Kim Hyun-Joong , Park Wonsuk , Lim Jeong-Hyun , Lee Jun-Kyoung , Koh Hyun-Moo
Published: February 2013

In this paper, probability model estimations are presented for vessel trajectories passing beneath a sea-crossing long span bridge. Two methods are developed and compared, which are a model based on 3D vessel maneuvering simulations and one using real world Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) data. Both methods are found to be able to represent the human factor and site specific characteristics to vessel location distribution, which is resulted in a biased shape unlike simple probability distribution function typically assumed in design specifications. Nevertheless, there still exits some discrepancies between the results of two methods. Inadequate mass distribution of samples in VTS and 3D simulation is regarded as a reason for the discrepancy. Further studies on VTS data and research on the application for the vessel collision risk assessment will attain safe and reliable bridge design.
Diagnosis of Risk on structural failure for deteriorated bridge beams
Authors: Vergoossen Rob , Boutz Michel , de Vries Hans
Published: February 2013

In this paper the risk on structural failure of some heavily deteriorated bridges constructed with post-tensioned prefabricated T-girders is described. The bridges have undergone three detailed inspections with an interval of approximately five years. All visual deterioration was recorded and classified. To check the actual state of corrosion, at four viaducts with severe deterioration, the risk of corrosion of the prestressing bars has been thoroughly assessed. With high pressure water-jetting the anchorages of the prestressing bars where carefully partly uncovered. Parallel to this for two of these viaducts thorough structural assessments has been carried out. For the other viaducts the risk on structural failure is determined by a specifically developed quick-scan-model. With this model the bridges are ranked with respect to the risk on structural failure. Depending on this risk, a solution for conserving these structures was proposed and a Design and Construct contractor was chosen to repair and conserve the structures.
Formulation of Long-Term Sustainable Bridge Maintenance Plan for the Department of Rural Roads Bridges in Thailand
Authors: Maneetes Hathairat , Bamrungwong Chakree
Published: February 2013

The Department of Rural Roads under the Ministry of Transport of Thailand currently maintains about 7,000 bridges in the Kingdom. Prior to the development of a long-term maintenance plan, the department adopted a responsive maintenance approach where repairs works were carried out when serious defects or damages were detected. Such ad-hoc approach may increase the life-cycle cost and may reduce the bridge safety and reliability. With the number of bridges growing and with limited budget and manpower, it was clear such approach could not be sustained in the long run. Through cooperation with Japan International Cooperation Agency, an effort was initiated in 2010 to develop a long-term, efficient and cost-effective preventive bridge maintenance plan. Due to their high importance, twelve major bridges crossing over Chao Phraya River were selected as reference bridges in the formulation of the long-term bridge maintenance plan and is discussed in this paper.
High Strength Reinforced Concrete Beams with Exposed Main Steel
Authors: Azizipesteh Baglo Hamid Reza , Raoof Mohammed
Published: February 2013

As part of our longstanding experimental and theoretical works on maintenance and repair of concrete structures, this paper addresses some aspects of the most common repair technique in which, in the course of applying the repair materials, the concrete cover and steel-concrete bond over certain (shear dominated) regions of the damaged simply supported reinforced concrete (RC) beams are removed prior to the application of the repair material. In particular, much emphasis will be placed on verifying a previously reported simple (hand-based) lower bound predictive model (by Raoof and Senussi) for RC beams made of normal strength concrete, with exposure of main steel located within the shear dominated regions, when dealing with RC beams made of high strength concrete. To this end, use will be made of some recently obtained large scale test results by the present authors, which cover concrete cube compressive strengths of up to 110 MPa.
Study on Temperature effect of Single Expansion Joint Bridge
Authors: Zhao Yibin , Shao Xudong , Li Jia , Jin Xiaoqin , Ma Jing , Liu Jianbiao
Published: February 2013

In this paper a new type of single expansion joint bridge (SEJB) was proposed to deal with the problems associated with expansion joint. To investigate the mechanical characteristic of SEJB under temperature action, theoretical formulas for internal force and deformation were derived. A 280m long SEJB was verified to be reliable. Moreover, taking the different types of bearing and cushion material, different lengths of pavement and different temperature into account, parameter analysis was performed.
Vibration Mitigation of Stay Cable using Optimally Tuned MR damper based on Frictional Equivalent Model
Authors: Wu Peng , Huang Hongwei , Sun Limin
Published: February 2013

Magnetorheological (MR) damper has been proved to be one of the most effective Semi-active control devices for the vibration mitigation of stay cables in various cable-stayed bridges. However, the highly nonlinear feature of the MR damper lead to a relatively complex representation of its mathematical model, and makes it difficult to be applied to suppress cable vibration with an efficient control algorithm. Therefore, this paper aims to develop a simplified mathematical model for the MR damper with less parameters involved, and to propose a semi-active control strategy using the universal design curves of nonlinear dampers model for the vibration control of stay cables. Theoretical analysis and simulation studies will be carried out to evaluate the performance of the cable-MR damper system and the efficiency of the proposed semi-active control strategy.
Economical and Ecological Analysis of a Pedestrian Bridge made of Textile-Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Kulas Christian , Hegger Josef , Goralski Claus , Karle Roland
Published: February 2013

Textile-reinforced concrete (TRC) is an innovative composite material consisting of mesh-like textile reinforcements and fine-grained concrete. Since the textiles do not corrode, it is possible to minimize the concrete covers to some millimetres. The results are slender concrete constructions, which not only meet the needs of modern architecture but also have economical and ecological advantages.

On the example of a 97 m long TRC pedestrian bridge, which was built in Albstadt, Germany, this papers shows briefly the design and construction of the TRC superstructure. Furthermore, details on the sustainability are presented: The emission of carbon-dioxide in the production process can be reduced and due to the low maintenance, costs can be decreased allowing for an economic construction.
Assessment of Coupled Numerical Models applied to semi-integral bridge
Authors: Jung Bastian , Morgenthal Guido
Published: February 2013

In the general design process of structures the engineer needs to decide which models are suitable for simulating realistically and efficiently the physical processes determining the structural behaviour. The theoretical knowledge, but also the experience from prior design processes will influence the model selection decision. It is thus often a qualitative choice of different models. The goal of this paper is the quantitative evaluation for coupled numerical partial models to assess the Global Model Quality. The evaluation is applied to the simulation of a semi-integral prestressed concrete girder bridge. The material behaviour, the creep and the shrinkage both for the superstructure and piers, furthermore geometrical nonlinearities and temperature distributions are considered as partial models. The results show that the Global Model Quality is strongly dependent on the sensitivity and quality of each model class with its corresponding partial models.
Design and Construction of The Jiayue Bridge in Chongqing, China
Authors: Deng Yu , Yin Delan , Du Chunlin , Liu Anshuang , Liu Xueshan
Published: February 2013

Jiayue Bridge crosses the Jialing River at the core of the Chongqing Liangjiang New Area. It is selected to be a cable-supported girder bridge with a 250-meter main span after careful analysis of the surrounding landform and the demand for navigation. The aesthetics of the bridge is one of the important considerations in the schematic design. To harmonize with natural surroundings and to give the passengers a more pleasant view, Y-shaped tower is selected. The girder section is a single- cell concrete box with wide wing slabs on both sides. The stay cables are made of epoxy filled seven wire strands which can be replaced individually. The maximum force in one single cable is 1100 tons. The stay cable anchors on the tower are steel anchor boxes which are encased in the concrete tower walls. On the other side, the cables are anchored to the end of the wing slabs of the box girder. The Jiayue Bridge adopts a unique traffic organizing scheme which separates vehicle lanes and pedestrian paths into two deck levels. The pedestrian paths are located beneath the wing slabs of the upper deck. This arrangement not only makes pedestrians more comfortable, but also improves the traffic capacity on the upper deck by reducing disturbance to vehicles. The bridge has been opened to traffic since February 2010, after three years of construction.
Deriving Optimum Mix Designs for High – Strength Concrete using Genetic Algorithms
Authors: Winston Oreta Andres , Balili Alden Paul , Teodosio Bertrand , Malabatuan Iris Mae , Yee Concepcion Analyn
Published: February 2013

High-strength concrete (HSC) is a highly complex and evolving construction material. Careful selection of constituent materials must be employed to successfully proportion HSC mixtures. While there are codes like ACI and ASTM which guide concrete proportioning, batching companies perform trial and error to produce a number of trial mixes depending on a required strength and slump. This method, however, is costly, time consuming and sometimes uneconomical and wasteful. Hence, genetic algorithms (GA) was explored in deriving optimum HSC mix designs using data collected from a batching company. Verification was implemented through in-situ adjustments and compression tests resulted to be applicable in actual practice that suggested a reduction in the number of trial mixtures and lesser incurred overall material cost of HSC.
La Mobilité Commerciale Du Bétail Entre Le Sahel Et Les Pays Côtiers: L'avenir Du Convoyage À Pied
Authors: Corniaux Christian , Thébaud Brigitte , Gautier Denis
Published: February 2013

This paper debates the future of long-distance commercial trekking of cattle, from Sahelian countries to the terminal markets on the coast. In the general context of shrinking access to pastoral resources, and constraints affecting livestock mobility throughout West Africa, this time-honoured form of export is being called into question by national governments and local authorities. Road transport of live animals and the reintroduction of refrigerated-meat value-chains are increasingly being proposed as better alternatives. Based on field research conducted within the framework of an EU funded regional programme, the authors challenge this vision and conclude that trading cattle on the hoof retains optimal levels of efficiency, especially in the trade of young animals as they actually gain weight 'for free' during the deliberately slow-paced journey which may last several months. In comparison, road transport remains heavily constrained by poor infrastructure, limited availability of vehicles and high transport related costs - including non-physical barriers. Support for on-the-hoof cattle trade through national and regional policies will be crucial if the competitiveness of the Sahelian beef-export value-chain is to be strengthened in a context of growing urban demand for meat, declining consumer purchasing power and strong competition from other animal protein sources (fish, chicken and imported meat).
Renalase: A Novel Molecule of Clinical Importance
Authors: Biswas SK , Akhtaruzzaman M
Published: February 2013

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmb.v4i1.13774 Bangladesh J Med Biochem 2011; 4(1): 3
Cardiac Troponin-I And CK-MB for Risk Stratification in Acute Myocardial Infarction (First Attack): A Comparative Study
Authors: Joarder S , Hoque M , Towhiduzzaman M , Salehuddin AF , Islam N , Akter M , Kamal IM
Published: February 2013

Myocardial infarction is associated with release of two important enzymes. The enzymatic diagnosis is mainly based on the measurement of CK-MB and troponin-I. Cardiac troponin- I(cTnI) is known to have higher specificity and analytic sensitivity than CK-MB for detection of myocardial injury & risk stratification. These are used both as diagnostic and prognostic marker. This prospective observational study included 60 patients of 40-65 years age range, diagnosed as acute myocardial infarction. The mean ages were 50± 8 years and 53±8 years respectively. Male and female patients included were 86.7% and 13.3%; BMI was 25.3±1.5. The two important cardiac markers troponin-I and CK-MB were studied in 60 patients, admitted in the hospital with acute MI. Blood samples to estimate these markers were collected from the patients after admission at 6-9 hours, 9-24 hours and after 24 hours and their mean values with ±SD were calculated, evaluated and compared between the two groups of patients with low and high risk MI. The patients with low risk MI were those who recovered early and the high risk patients improved later in comparison to low risk group. Out of 60 patients, 37 had troponin-I level>1.5 ng /ml. Among them 29 developed high risk MI and 8 recovered earlier than high risk group. 23 patients had troponin-I <1.5 ng /ml, out of whom 10 were high and 13 were low risk. The difference of troponin-I levels between high and low risk groups of patients was statistically significant (p<0.01). On the other hand CK-MB level was >7 ng /ml in 33 patients. Out of them 22 patients developed high and 11 patients were low risk but 18 patients out of 27 who had CK-MB <7 ng /ml became high and 9 patients were low risk. The difference of outcome in respect to higher and lower values of CK-MB between the two groups was not statistically significant (p>0.05). Both troponin-I and CK-MB were estimated in all 60 patients on three occasions. The mean troponin-I levels were statistically significant between the high and the low risk groups on all occasions. On the contrary, the values of CK-MB were not statistically significant on two occasions but was significant (p < 0.01) on one occasion when it was estimated at 9 - 24 hour. Serum cTnI is better and more characteristic biomarker than CK-MB for risk prediction and prognosis evaluation in AMI patients. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmb.v4i1.13776 Bangladesh J Med Biochem 2011; 4(1): 10-15
Role of Glutathione in Male Infertility
Authors: Naher ZU , Biswas SK , Mollah FH , Ali M , Arslan MI
Published: February 2013

Infertility is a worldwide problem and in almost 50% of cases infertility results from abnormality of the male partners. Apart from endocrine disorders, definitive cause and mechanism of male infertility is not clear in many cases. Recent evidence indicates that imbalance between pro-oxidant stress and antioxidant defense plays an important role in the pathogenesis of male infertility. Among the endogenous antioxidant systems, reduced glutathione (GSH) plays a significant role in the antioxidant defense of the spermatogenic epithelium, the epididymis and perhaps in the ejaculated spermatozoa. The current study was therefore designed to evaluate any association that may exist between GSH levels and male infertility. Infertile male patients (having female partners with normal fertility parameters; n=31) and age- matched healthy male fertile control subjects (n=30) were included in this study. In addition to medical history, semen analyses including semen volume, sperm count, motility and morphology were done for each subject. As a measure of antioxidant capacity erythrocyte and seminal plasma GSH concentrations were measured by Ellman's method in fertile and infertile male subjects. The infertile subjects were similar to fertile subjects in terms of age. However, semen volume and sperm count was found significantly lower (p<0.001) in infertile males compared with healthy fertile male subjects. Percentage of subjects with abnormal sperm morphology and motility were found higher in infertile group compared with fertile group. The median (range) erythrocyte GSH level did not differ between the two groups (12.62 (0.67-29.82) versus 13.93 (2.10-21.08) mg/gm Hb). However, the seminal plasma GSH level was found markedly suppressed in infertile group (1.64 (0.23-7.50)) compared with fertile group (4.26 (2.32-7.50)) mg/dl (p<0.001). In the present study seminal plasma GSH level was found markedly suppressed along with abnormal values for semen volume, sperm concentration and sperm morphology and motility in infertile subjects compared with fertile subjects. This finding indicates that low level of seminal plasma GSH level may be associated with male infertility. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmb.v4i2.13772 Bangladesh J Med Biochem 2011; 4(2): 20-25
Metabolic Syndrome and Insulin resistance: Etiopathegenesis and influencing factors
Authors: Al-Mahmood AK , Afrin SF , Hoque N
Published: February 2013

Metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance has been the subject of much debate over the last two decades. Its pathophysiologycal basis, however, still remains to be clearly understood. Both genetic and environmental factors have been implicated in its pathogenesis. Mutation of genes encoding signal transduction molecules of insulin and acquired factors like aging, diets, physical activity, obesity and related molecular changes, dyslipidemia, hypertension and smoking were proposed by many groups. This review examined both acquired and genetic factors and discussed model of hormone-receptor-postreceptor interactions to explore the molecular basis of insulin resistance. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmb.v4i2.13773 Bangladesh J Med Biochem 2011; 4(2): 26-31
Evaluating the Economic Performance of High-Technology Industry and Energy Efficiency: A Case Study of Science Parks in Taiwan
Authors: Yan Min-Ren , Chien Kuo-Ming
Published: February 2013

High-technology industries provide opportunities for economic growth, but also raise concerns because of their energy-demanding nature. This paper provides an integrated evaluation of both economic benefits and energy efficiency of high-technology industries based on the real data from one of the globally recognized high-technology industrial clusters, the national science parks in Taiwan. A nation-wide industrial Input-Output Analysis is conducted to demonstrate the positive effects of science parks on national economic developments and industrial upgrades. The concept of energy intensity and an energy-efficient economy index are applied to an integrated assessment of the relationship between economic growth and energy consumption. The proposed case study suggests that economic and energy efficiency objectives can be simultaneously achieved by the development of high-technology industries, while three energy policy implications are considered. First, a nation-wide macro viewpoint is needed and high-technology industries should be considered as parts of the national/regional economies by governmental agencies. Second, a proper industrial clustering mechanism and the shared environmental facilities supported by the government, such as planned land and road usage, electricity and water supply, telecommunications system, sewerage system and wastewater treatments, can improve energy efficiency of high-technology industries. Third, the governmental policies on the taxing and management system in science parks would also direct energy-efficient economy of high-technology industries.
Immune Evasion, Immunopathology and the Regulation of the Immune System
Authors: Sorci Gabriele , Cornet Stéphane , Faivre Bruno
Published: February 2013

Costs and benefits of the immune response have attracted considerable attention in the last years among evolutionary biologists. Given the cost of parasitism, natural selection should favor individuals with the most effective immune defenses. Nevertheless, there exists huge variation in the expression of immune effectors among individuals. To explain this apparent paradox, it has been suggested that an over-reactive immune system might be too costly, both in terms of metabolic resources and risks of immune-mediated diseases, setting a limit to the investment into immune defenses. Here, we argue that this view neglects one important aspect of the interaction: the role played by evolving pathogens. We suggest that taking into account the co-evolutionary interactions between the host immune system and the parasitic strategies to overcome the immune response might provide a better picture of the selective pressures that shape the evolution of immune functioning. Integrating parasitic strategies of host exploitation can also contribute to understand the seemingly contradictory results that infection can enhance, but also protect from, autoimmune diseases. In the last decades, the incidence of autoimmune disorders has dramatically increased in wealthy countries of the northern hemisphere with a concomitant decrease of most parasitic infections. Experimental work on model organisms has shown that this pattern may be due to the protective role of certain parasites (i.e., helminths) that rely on the immunosuppression of hosts for their persistence. Interestingly, although parasite-induced immunosuppression can protect against autoimmunity, it can obviously favor the spread of other infections. Therefore, we need to think about the evolution of the immune system using a multidimensional trade-off involving immunoprotection, immunopathology and the parasitic strategies to escape the immune response.
Equipment Distribution for Structural Stabilization and Civilian Rescue
Authors: Chen Albert Y. , Peña-Mora Feniosky , Mehta Saumil J. , Foltz Stuart , Plans Albert P. , Brauer Brian R. , Nacheman Scott
Published: February 2013

The efficiency of Urban Search and Rescue operations depends on the supply of appropriate equipment and resources, and an efficient damage assessment facilitates deployment of these resources. This paper presents an Information Technology (IT) supported system for on-site data collection to communicate structural condition, track search and rescue status, and request and allocate appropriate resources. The system provides a unified interface for efficient gathering, storing, and sharing of building assessment information. Visualization and access of such information enable rescuers to respond to the disaster more efficiently with better situational awareness. The IT system also provides an interface for electronic resource requests to a geospatial resource repository service that enables a spatial disaster management environment for resource allocation. Request and deployment of critical resources through this system enables lifesaving efforts, with the appropriate equipment, operator, and materials, to become more efficient and effective. System development at the Illinois Fire Service Institute has shown promising results.
Multi-Layers of Information Security in Emergency Response
Authors: Harnesk Dan , Hartikainen Heidi
Published: February 2013

This paper draws on the socio-technical research tradition in information systems to re-conceptualize the information security in emergency response. A conceptual basis encompassing the three layers—technical, cognitive, and organizational—is developed by synthesizing Actor Network Theory and Theory of Organizational Routines. This paper makes the assumption that the emergency response context is built on the relationship between association and connectivity, which continuously shapes the emergency action network and its routines. Empirically, the analysis is based on a single case study conducted across three emergency departments. The data thus collected on information security, emergency department routines, and emergency actions is used to theorize specifically on the association/connectivity relationship. The resultant findings point to the fact that information security layers have a meaning in emergency response that is different from mainstream definitions of information security.
Cell Phone Use with Social Ties During Crises
Authors: Kavanaugh Andrea , Sheetz Steven D. , Quek Francis , Kim B. Joon
Published: February 2013

Many proposed technological solutions to emergency response during disasters involve the use of cellular telephone technology. However, cell phone networks quickly become saturated during and/or immediately after a disaster and remain saturated for critical periods. This study investigated cell phone use by Virginia Tech students, faculty and staff during the shootings on April 16, 2007 to identify patterns of communication with social network ties. An online survey was administered to a random sample pool to capture communications behavior with social ties during the day of these tragic events. The results show that cell phones were the most heavily used communication technology by a majority of respondents (both voice and text messaging). While text messaging makes more efficient use of bandwidth than voice, most communication on 4/16 was with parents, since the majority of the sample is students, who are less likely to use text messaging. These findings should help in understanding how cell phone technologies may be utilized or modified for emergency situations in similar communities.
Interaction Design Principles for Web Emergency Management Information Systems
Authors: Onorati Teresa , Malizia Alessio , Díaz Paloma , Aedo Ignacio
Published: February 2013

The interaction design for web emergency management information systems (WEMIS) is an important aspect to keep in mind due to the criticality of the domain: decision making, updating available resources, defining a task list, and trusting in proposed information. A common interaction design strategy for WEMIS seems to be needed, but currently there are few references in literature. The aim of this study is to contribute to this lack with a set of interactive principles for WEMIS. From the emergency point of view, existing WEMIS have been analyzed to extract common features and to design interactive principles for emergency. Furthermore, the authors studied design principles extracted from a well-known (DERMIS) model relating them to emergency phases and features. The result proposed here is a set of design principles for supporting interactive properties for WEMIS. Finally, two case studies have been considered as applications of proposed design principles.
Knowledge-Based Issues for Aid Agencies in Crisis Scenarios
Authors: Bali Rajeev K. , Mann Russell , Baskaran Vikram , Immonen Aapo , Naguib Raouf , Richards Alan C. , Puentes John , Lehaney Brian , Marshall Ian M. , Wickramasinghe Nilmini
Published: February 2013

As part of its expanding role, particularly as an agent of peace building, the United Nations (UN) actively participates in the implementation of measures to prevent and manage crisis/disaster situations. The purpose of such an approach is to empower the victims, protect the environment, rebuild communities, and create employment. However, real world crisis management situations are complex given the multiple interrelated interests, actors, relations, and objectives. Recent studies in healthcare contexts, which also have dynamic and complex operations, have shown the merit and benefits of employing various tools and techniques from the domain of knowledge management (KM). Hence, this paper investigates three distinct natural crisis situations (the 2010 Haiti Earthquake, the 2004 Boxing Day Asian Tsunami, and the 2001 Gujarat Earthquake) with which the United Nations and international aid agencies have been and are currently involved, to identify recurring issues which continue to provide knowledge-based impediments. Major findings from each case study are analyzed according to the estimated impact of identified impediments. The severity of the enumerated knowledge-based issues is quantified and compared by means of an assigned qualitative to identify the most significant attribute.
Supporting the Allocation of Traumatized Patients with a Decision Support System
Authors: Majchrzak Tim A. , Noack Oliver , Neuhaus Philipp , Ückert Frank
Published: February 2013

In this paper, the authors present a business rules-based decision support system for the allocation of traumatized patients. The assignment of patients to vehicles and hospitals is a task that requires detailed up-to-date information. At the same time, it has to be carried out quickly. The authors propose supporting medical staff with an IT system. The proposed system could be used in cases of mass incidents, as it is problematic, but essential, to provide all injured with adequate healthcare as fast as possible. The contribution is a system based on business rules, which is a novel approach in this context. Its feasibility is proven by prototypic implementation. In this paper, the authors describe the development project’s background as well as the system’s requirements and implementation details. The authors present an exemplary scenario to show the strengths of the proposed approach.
Visualizing Composite Knowledge in Emergency Responses using Spatial Hypertext
Authors: Canós José H. , Penadés M. Carmen , Solís Carlos , Borges Marcos R.S. , Vivacqua Adriana S. , Llavador Manuel
Published: February 2013

Having the right information at the right time is crucial to make decisions during emergency response. To fulfill this requirement, emergency management systems must provide emergency managers with knowledge management and visualization tools. The goal is twofold: on one hand, to organize knowledge coming from different sources, mainly the emergency response plans (the formal knowledge) and the information extracted from the emergency development (the contextual knowledge), and on the other hand, to enable effective access to information. Formal and contextual knowledge sets are mostly disjoint; however, there are cases in which a formal knowledge piece may be updated with some contextual information, constituting composite knowledge. In this paper, the authors extend a knowledge framework with the notion of composite knowledge, and use spatial hypertext to visualize this type of knowledge. The authors illustrate the proposal with a case study on accessing to information during an emergency response in an underground transportation system.
A Distributed Scenario-Based Decision Support System for Robust Decision-Making in Complex Situations
Authors: Comes Tina , Wijngaards Niek , Hiete Michael , Conrado Claudine , Schultmann Frank
Published: February 2013

Decision-making in emergency management is a challenging task as the consequences of decisions are considerable, the threatened systems are complex and information is often uncertain. This paper presents a distributed system facilitating better-informed decision-making in strategic emergency management. The construction of scenarios provides a rationale for collecting, organising, and processing information. The set of scenarios captures the uncertainty of the situation and its developments. The relevance of scenarios is ensured by gearing the scenario construction to assessing alternatives, thus avoiding time-consuming processing of irrelevant information. The scenarios are constructed in a distributed setting allowing for a flexible adaptation of reasoning (principles and processes) to both the problem at hand and the information available. This approach ensures that each decision can be founded on a coherent set of scenarios. The theoretical framework is demonstrated in a distributed decision support system by orchestrating experts into workflows tailored to each specific decision.
Ubiquitous Computing for Personalized Decision Support in Emergency
Authors: Smirnov Alexander , Levashova Tatiana , Shilov Nikolay , Kashevnik Alexey
Published: February 2013

Ubiquitous computing opens new possibilities in various aspects of human activities. The paper proposes an approach to emergency situation response that benefits from the ubiquitous computing. The approach is based on utilizing profiles to facilitate the coordination of the activities of the emergency response operation members. The major approach underlying idea is to represent the operation members jointly with information sources as a network of services that can be configured via negotiation of participating parties. Such elements as profile structure, role-based emergency response, negotiation scenarios, and negotiation protocols are described in detail.
Design of Semi-Structured Database System
Authors: Sarkar Anirban
Published: February 2013

The chapter focuses on a graph – semantic based conceptual data model for semi-structured data, called Graph Object Oriented Semi-Structured Data Model (GOOSSDM), to conceptualize the different facets of such system in object oriented paradigm. The model defines a set of graph based formal constructs, varieties of relationship types with participation constraints. It is accompanied with a rich set of graphical notations and those are used to specify the conceptual level design of semi-structured database system. The approach facilitates modeling of irregular, heterogeneous, hierarchical, and non-hierarchical semi-structured data at the conceptual level. The GOOSSDM is also able to represent the mixed content in semi-structured data. Moreover, the approach is capable to model XML document at conceptual level with the facility of document-centric design, ordering and disjunction characteristic. The chapter also includes a rule based transformation mechanism for GOOSSDM schema into the equivalent XML Schema Definition (XSD). Moreover, the chapter also provides comparative study of several similar kinds of proposals for semi-structured data models based on the properties of semi-structured data and future research scope in this area.
The iPad in the Classroom
Authors: Ostashewski Nathaniel , Reid Doug
Published: February 2013

Mobile learning devices, such as the iPad tablet, have the potential of providing unique pedagogical strategies for the K-12 classroom. One of these strategies is digital storytelling, a constructivist approach using digital tools to create and share short stories. This chapter describes three iPad implementation projects involving multimedia database and digital storytelling creation that underscore the successes and challenges of these devices and the new classroom activities they make available to educators. The results of these projects suggest that the iPad is one device that can successfully support and sustain a variety of multimedia creation and use in the classroom. Specifically, this chapter reports on research that identifies mobile pedagogical strategies on the iPad, such as mobile small and large group demonstrations, student-directed control-and-playback activities, backchannel (microblogging) conversations, Web-based research activities, and digital storytelling. As with other types of technology implementations, management and process challenges exist that should be considered. This chapter details some of the challenges that are specific to iPads and multimedia creation on these devices.
Teachers Learn How to Effectively Integrate Mobile Technology by Teaching Students Using Math Snacks Animations and Games
Authors: Trujillo Karen M. , Wiburg Karin , Savic Milos , McKee Kerry
Published: February 2013

The time for teachers to use mobile devices is now. However, in order to ensure that yet another technological transition in the classroom is as effective as possible, there is an undeniable need for effective professional development. The models the authors propose in this chapter offer teachers experiences that require curriculum design and delivery, experience with mobile hardware and software, and opportunities to consider the pedagogical implications of integration for effective teaching and learning. The Math Snacks Summer Camp Model and the Math Snacks 3-Day Gradual Release Model offer experiences where teachers and students work together to learn challenging mathematics concepts using mobile devices, laptop computers, and hands-on activities. A description of these models, including benefits and limitations is discussed. An adaptation of each model for pre-service teachers and higher education faculty is also included.
Mobile Learning in Health Professions Education
Authors: Siddiqui Zarrin Seema , Jonas-Dwyer Diana Renee D.
Published: February 2013

Recent technological advances have led to the adoption of mobile learning devices throughout the world and this is reflected in the articles that were reviewed in health professions education. Several criteria were used to review the selected articles, including the target group, phase of learning (undergraduate, postgraduate, or continuous professional development), the theoretical framework used, and the reported outcomes. The majority of the studies fit into Kirkpatrick’s first level of evaluation and report learners’ views of learning experiences. A smaller number of articles incorporated changes in learners’ behaviour, but only one reported benefits to the delivery of health care. To assist educators in using mobile learning as part of their teaching, an implementation framework including infrastructure, training, and ethical elements based on the literature reviewed is provided.
Developing a Culturally-Rich Interactive Model for mLearning
Authors: Donohue Patricia J. , Crosby Martha E.
Published: February 2013

The authors’ research group is part of a national consortium that developed and tested a successful Studio-Based Learning (SBL) model for teaching programming in undergraduate Computer Science (CS). The model was also developed for a 9th-grade Spatial Studies class to improve mathematics, digital literacy, and raise student interest in computing. Early CS course evaluations showed that culturally relevant content helped improve student learning and engagement. The group investigated the ability of mobile learning to personalize instruction, adapt content to cultural contexts, and coach students through complex design problems. Mobile offered a solution to improve and raise the quality of students’ SBL experience. The result presented here are the group’s modified mobile SBL model, the “mLearning Design Studio” (mLDS). The authors propose mLDS will improve students’ SBL experience, augment their analytical skills, attract more underrepresented students into computer science, raise all students’ skills needed to enter and compete in today’s global workforce.