bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of Performance Status for RC Members
Authors: Wan Hai Tao , Zhou Li Li
Published: October 2013

The yield status and ultimate status are two very important performance statuses during the loading process of reinforced concrete (RC) members. The yield status and ultimate status can be determined by inspecting the deformation properties of reinforced concrete members. This paper describes four methods to determine the yield status of reinforced concrete members, and three methods to determine the ultimate status of reinforced concrete members. Through these methods, we can understand the mechanical behavior of reinforced concrete members.
Influence of Pozzolana Admixture on Long-Term Chemical Characteristic of Cement Mortars
Authors: Dobiáš Daniel , Pernicová Radka
Published: October 2013

nfluence of non-flowing model sulphate solution determined for cement mortar with pozzzolana admixture are presented in this paper. In the predetermined time intervals the influence of the aggressive liquid on chemical properties and mineralogical composition was tested. The changes caused by corrosive sulphate environment on the testing specimens were determined in dependence on the different type of cement and used ground clay brick as pozzolana admixture. From the results obtained follows that the additive of ground clay bricks has positively impact on the sulphate resistance.
Axial Compression Ratio Limit of Regional Confined Concrete Columns
Authors: Lu Jun Yan , Pang Wei Wang , Chang Shuai
Published: October 2013

Through earthquake simulation experiment of nine regional confined concrete columns with different axial compression ratio, the bearing capacity and seismic behavior of regional confined concrete columns were studied in this paper. Considering the ductility, stiffness, energy-dissipation performance and related factors of regional confined concrete columns under different axial compression ratio, by comparative analysis of the hysteretic behavior of the specimens, the limit of axial compression ratio of regional confined concrete columns is proposed for seismic design.
Research of Compression Bearing Capacity of Steel Reinforced Concrete Short Column Replaced by C-BAR
Authors: Qiu Cheng Zhu
Published: October 2013

t is essential to study the performance of reinforced concrete short column. In this paper, the main reinforcements and hoopings in short columns were replaced by C-BAR reinforcements, the regularity of reinforcing bar replaced by C-BAR reinforcements was summarized. The results show that the axial compression bearing capacity of concrete short column is increased.
Identification and Evaluation of Steel Structure after Fire
Authors: Yao Lan , Liu Yu Min , Zou Yong Zhi , Lu Qiao Zhi
Published: October 2013

After fire, the strength of steel materials and stiffness of artifacts decrease significantly, which cause the redistribution of internal forces and increase the difficulty in testing of materials, identification and evaluation of steel structures after fire. This paper mainly discusses the identification and evaluation of steel structure of one project undertaken a fire by empirical test. It is speculated that the temperature of the fire was more than 850°C, area covered includes 1~4/Q~W axis and 5~6/H~W axis of the factory, after the fire in the safety appraisal building assessment, it is categorized as class C which influences the safety of the whole structure. From the results of this appraisal, suggestions are made which could be regarded as a guide in similar engineering projects in the future.
Application of Phased Array Antenna Technique in Structural Damage Detection
Authors: Zhao Lei , Zhao Yu
Published: October 2013

Over decades phased array antenna technique attracts much more attention in Lamb wave based structural damage detection. Lamb wave generated by the piezoelectric wafers omnidirectionally could be steered at a specific direction during its propagation. Thus, the wave beam steering and focusing has been established, the location of structural damage is done with pulse-echo method by wave propagation. However, the detection accuracy will decrease as side bands energy leakage during wave propagation, so, signals to be generated have to be modified by window tone burst in order to concentrate energy in main bands and minimize the effect of dispersion side bands. In this paper, signals modified by Hanning-windowed tone burst was used to decrease the effect of side bands energy leakage, the results improved the detection accuracy better than signals without window tone burst and show good agreement with theoretical results. Meanwhile, a numerical simulation of aluminium plate demonstrates that phased array antenna technique is feasible in structural damage detection.
Monitoring and Analysis on Erection of Archaized Steel Tower
Authors: Wang Zhi Hao , Li Xiao Ke , Han Peng Fei
Published: October 2013

Combined with erection of an archaized steel tower in Luoyang, China, stresses in key members, displacements of control nodes and temperature variation of steel skeleton were monitored and analyzed. The temperature range for erecting structure is optimized based on finite element simulation analysis with 5°C, 10°C, 15°C and 20°C as closure temperature. It is confirmed by actual test values of steel tower. And the recommended temperature range is given between 15°C and 20°C. In case of dead weight + live load + temperature, test values are consistent with theory values. Maximum tensile stress and compressive stress are 64.0MPa and-61.0MPa respectively. The structure is safe during whole process of erection. The result obtained in the paper would have some references for the design and construction of similar steel structures.
Experimental Analysis of Frictional Characteristics of Geosynthetics in Concrete Lining Structure of South-to-North Water Transfer Project
Authors: Qiu Guo Yi , Gao Dan Ying , Yuan Jian Song
Published: October 2013

Concrete lining structure was adopted as channel lining structure of South-North Water Transfer Project, China. The structure is made up of concrete, composite geomembrane, sand bed and insulation board. However, the faces displacement of concrete lining emerged at test section on some canal of the project. The experiment researches the friction coefficient between the weak level performance of the system, which provides the base for designing and construction.
Dynamic and Static Safety Analysis of Hydropower Bifurcated Pipe
Authors: Zhang Jian Hua , Yang Zhi Chao , Xu Jin Jin
Published: October 2013

In recent years, hydropower as one kind of the most economical and environmental energy got the swift and violent development, it is important to ensure the safety of hydropower station. Combined with practical engineering of Dandong hydropower station, the simulation model of hydropower station is built by three-dimensional finite element software, the bifurcated pipe is analyzed under the static and dynamic loads which are caused by reconstruction of Yueshan railway station. The results show that the stresses and displacements increment are smaller under the loads, the natural frequency of vibration and the frequency of railway bridge are different largely, which does not produce resonance. Therefore, the hydropower meets the safety requirements under different railway bridge loads.
Discussions about Modification Issue of Rod Length in Standard Penetration Test
Authors: Ding Wei , Liu Qing , Sui Feng Tao , Sun Kang Kang
Published: October 2013

SPT (standard penetration test) is a geo-situ test method widely used in engineering. However, the awareness on modification issues about rod length of SPT-N has considerable differences. Based on the comprehensive analysis of existing research results, some valuable suggestions are put forward contraposed modification issues of rod length, which can be referenced for engineering practices and further research.
The Research of Squat Silos Dynamic Pressure and Eccentric Discharge Trial
Authors: Yuan Fang , Li Xiao Dong , Song Yao Hui
Published: October 2013

The test use the practical reduced scale model of flat-bottomed silo to determine the value of static lateral pressure of silo walls, dynamic pressure of discharge process and dynamic pressure of silo walls which comes from eccentric discharge. Then the work is, respectively, to analyses static pressure value and flat-bottomed silo standard value, dynamic pressure value and static pressure value, as well as dynamic silo walls overpressure contrastively, and to calculate the coefficient size of each survey point of silo walls. Thus this trial verifies that the existence of the phenomenon of the silo dynamic overpressure and dynamic overpressure caused by eccentric discharge, also, it illustrates the problem of silo dynamic pressure we cant ignore during the engineering design.
Allowable Height Difference between Adjacent Monoliths with Spherical Surface Key Groove in Transverse Joints
Authors: Luo Dan Ni , Hu Yu , Li Qin Bing
Published: October 2013

The calculation method of the minimum aperture of transverse joints with spherical surface key groove was introduced in this study. Based on the computation theory of allowable height difference between adjacent monoliths proposed by Bofang Zhu, the analytical model of allowable height difference of Xiluodu arch dam was established with consideration of the effect of main factors on the transverse joints deformation, including the temperature, autogenous volume deformation, self-weight and foundation. After the horizontal and vertical deformations of transverse joints was required, according to the form of spherical surface key groove, the aperture of each part of key groove and the minimum aperture were obtained at several height difference between adjacent monoliths. The allowable height difference was determined on the condition of meeting the grouting requirements of transverse joints. The result shows that the allowable height difference for Xiluodu arch dam should not be more than 30m.
Experimental Study on Creep Behavior of Prestressed Concrete Beams with Pretensioned Bent-Up Tendons for 600 Days
Authors: Wang Jun , Li Li Hui
Published: October 2013

The prestressed concrete beam with pretensioned bent-up tendons combines many advantages of the straight-line pretensioned prestressed beams and the curvilinear posttensioned beams. To improve its application in bridges, long-term deformation should be exactly predicted and controlled. Three prestressed concrete beams with pretensioned bent-up tendons XPB1,XPB2, XPB3 were fabricated, and XPB1 and XPB3 were put in standard curing room, but XPB2 were put in outdoor environment. All the experimental beams were simple supported under long-term loads. Their deformation such as creep strain and long-term deflection in mid-span section were observed about 600 days. By analyzing the influence factor and time-history law of creep coefficient and long-term coefficient, creep coefficient equation of the test beams was fitted and compared with the code model such as ACI209R-92, CEB-FIP MC90 and 86 model proposed by China Academy of Building Research, and the ±10% margin error of this model was pointed out. All these results may offer the initial value of long-term deformation of the prestressed concrete beams with pretensioned bent-up tendons.
Strain Analysis and Experimental Research of the Composite Beams
Authors: Han Ai Hong
Published: October 2013

Through the comparative analysis of theoretical and experiment results, this paper proved that the formulas for solving the strain of composite beams are correct, and the strain is consistent with the plane cross-section assumption. In order to reduce the influence of friction, resin membranes were placed in steel-steel composite beams and aluminum-steel composite beams. The strain measurements were performed on composite beams with and without adding resin, the influence of friction between the composite beams is analyzed by the comparison of strain data,.
Experimental Investigation for Structural Effect of Soft Clay under Low Frequency Cyclic Loading
Authors: Liu Ping Hui , Fang Hou Guo , Song Li Juan
Published: October 2013

Structural effect character is one of the important properties of soft clay. It has great influences on its physical and mechanical properties, especially on its deformation features. On the basis of the laboratory tests, the structural behavior of marine soft clay in Pearl River Delta region under the low frequency cyclic loading was tested and analyzed. Combined with both macro-analysis and micro-analysis, it was found that the structural character of the soft clay has great influences on both its compression deformation features and its shearing deformation features.
Experimental Study on Load Behavior of Steel Fiber Concrete Coupled Shear Wall
Authors: Zhao Jun , Yao Meng
Published: October 2013

Through low cycle reverse tests of three steel fiber reinforced concrete coupled shear walls, the crack pattern, bearing capacity, stiffness and displacement are analyzed. Test results show that the bearing capacity, yielding stiffness and the anti-crack performance of the coupled shear walls are generally improved by adding steel fibers to reinforced concrete coupling beams, and the stiffness degeneration is also reduced to a certain degree. More cracks are induced by steel fibers bridged the main crack, which can make the shear wall consume more energy.
Study on the Static Performance of Steel Truss Structure
Authors: Liu Ming Hui , Yin Ai Guo
Published: October 2013

This paper aims to experimentally study static responses of bridge longitudinal truss, and the distribution rules of the structural and local stresses were analyzed. The results of the analyses on experimental data show that the typical details in the longitudinal truss concentrate to a limited area on the toe of a dominate weld at the intersection among the upper chord or bottom chord, diagonal and the gusset plates; with boundary conditions being strengthened, stress distribution of the tested specimen became flat and the monolithic tress level decreased relatively. Based on obtained test information, the results are used for updating and validating this kind of structural model, and determining the parameters of finite element model.
Testing Study of FA-ASP Binder Mortar
Authors: Liu Huan Qiang , Tong Yu Ping , Jin Jin Liang , Wang Zhen , Qin Kai , Wang Yan , Zhu Yi Xing
Published: October 2013

By using high-volume fly ash (FA), aluminum slag superfine powder (ASP) as raw materials to synthesize FA-ASP binder, this paper developed M10 masonry mortar. Comparing with the cement mortar and FA mortar, the FA-ASP mortar has not only good construction performance and mechanical performance, but also reduces the production cost obviously, which is a broad development prospect of green new building mortar.
Research on Structural Damage Diagnosis Based on Strain Modal
Authors: Zhang Yi Na , Cao Lei
Published: October 2013

The damage diagnosis theory and method of engineering structure is one of the hot issues concerned by the engineering circles at present. Based on the strain modal analysis theory, it expounds the connection among displacement mode, strain mode and curvature mode, with a heavy rubber as the material to make a cantilever beam, and establishing the different damage conditions of the cantilever beam, studying about dynamic structural damage identification under the incentive, which provides the theoretical basis and technical support for the research on damage detection of large engineering structure.
Research on Semi-Rigid Connections Calculation of Laminated Wood Frame Beam-Column
Authors: Bian Zhi Hui , Wang Tie Cheng , Zhao Shi Yong , Fu Su Juan
Published: October 2013

Generally laminated wood frame beam-column uses the additional steel bolts to connect, its performance is a semi-rigid characteristics under the loads. In the small deflection assumption conditions, this paper is based on the theory of semi-rigid connection, derived the semi-rigid rod end stiffness matrix and moment calculation formula of laminated wood structural frame beam-column element under the arbitrary loads. By SAP2000 the type of flexible coefficient is adopted to establish finite element numerical analysis based on 1# wood frame structure-building of science and technology R&D center in Hebei province. The result shows that each component is basically the same with the original design internal forces while the flexible coefficient is range of 0.41 to 0.82, the framework of semi-rigid connections in the actual calculation should be considered. The internal force calculation method is proposed, which provide a basis for wood design calculation that takes into account the semi-rigid connections.
Analysis on Parameters of Wood-Frame Model under Impact Loading
Authors: Li Cui Ling , Qu Shu Ying , Wu Ruo Yang , Meng Fan Bo
Published: October 2013

Deflection and stress of different cross section forms and its value are compared by finite element analysis of timberwork design model under the impact loading. The result indicates that decreasing the size of cross section or changing the section shape can effectively avoid the model too heavy and conservative design. In the case of horizontal loads applied on first floor, strengthening the column of first floor obviously reduces the deflection of model and improves the lateral stiffness. Keeping the column size of the first floor and choosing I-section significantly reduce the overall weight on condition of meeting the bearing capacity and stability, it also make the material higher utilization.
Correlation Test between Chloride Diffusion Coefficient and Microcosmic Pore Structure of Mineral Admixture Concrete
Authors: Zhu Yun Dong , Li Yang , Zhao Zhuo
Published: October 2013

Cube crushing strength, resistance to chloride penetration and gas adsorption analysis of mineral admixture concrete are tested to analyze the effect of raw material on chloride diffusion coefficient and its regression relationship with concrete microcosmic pore structure index. Test results show that chloride diffusion coefficient at different age increased with the increase of water-binding material ratio, decreased with the increase of cement dosage and both appeared a good nonlinear regression relationship. Chloride diffusion coefficient at different age increased with the increase of concrete microcosmic pore structure index. 56d chloride diffusion coefficient has a good linear correlation with microcosmic pore structure index, and 84d chloride diffusion coefficient has a good nonlinear regression relationship with microcosmic pore structure index.
Studies on Long-Term Deflection of FRP Reinforced Concrete Beams
Authors: Han Quan Ji , Zhu Hai Tang , Cui Hai Bo
Published: October 2013

The research status and progress, in China and overseas, of long-term deflection of FRP reinforced concrete beams are briefly introduced in this paper. The mechanism, influencing factors and calculation method of long-term deflection of FRP reinforced concrete beams are discussed and summarized. Meanwhile, some advices for long-term deflection research of FRP reinforced concrete beams are proposed.
Comparison of Four Structural Schemes for the Roof Design of Qinyang Stadium
Authors: Du Wen Feng , Zhu Zheng Hao , Zhu Li Ming
Published: October 2013

Basing on the practical engineering of elliptic paraboloid roof structural design in Qinyang Stadium, four structural schemes such as suspend-dome, single-layer latticed shell, double-layer latticed shell and rigid suspend-dome, are calculated and designed respectively. After satisfying the requirements of strength, stiffness and stability, the quantity of steel is compared. The advantages and disadvantages on mechanical performance, construction and cost of four schemes are discussed. Results of comparison provide the accordance for the final decision of structural schemes of Qinyang Stadium and can be referenced by other similar practical engineers.
Calculation of Earth Pressure on Straight Ditch Buried Rigid Pipe
Authors: Liu Qing , Ding Wei , Cui Jian Bo , Xiao Yan , Zhao Xue Qiang
Published: October 2013

Based on the unified twin shear strength theory, a new earth pressure formula is deduced for the straight groove buried rigid pipes, with a straight slip plane soil pressure calculation model established. Compared with traditional earth pressure calculation method, the new formula which considers influence of intermediate principal stress on the pipeline earth pressure can obtain the result which is much closer to the actual pipeline stress situation. The results determined from the proposed formula with an engineering example show the influence law of slot width and the thickness of the overburden on tube top soil pressure. The conclusions have some guidance significance for optimization design of pipeline engineering.
Study on Optimization under Internal Water Pressure of Spiral Case of Hydropower Station
Authors: Xu Xin Yong , Kang Ying Bin , Zhang Di
Published: October 2013

Based on the ANSYS program, a numerical model of spiral case structure of hydropower station is built. The nonlinear contact characteristics are introduced in this model. For the working conditions under the different internal water pressure, structural simulation analysis is conducted. The effect of the internal water pressure on the structure, and the mechanical characteristics and stress of reinforcement are analyzed. The evolution process of concrete cracks, from microscopic period to macroscopic period is exhibited. The reasonable scheme of optimization under internal water pressure is attained.
Review and Summary of Independent Evaluation of Immigrants about Shimenkan Hydroelectric Station
Authors: Tang Ke Dong , Liang Lin Xiao
Published: October 2013

ndependent evaluation of immigrants is conducted by independent and impartial monitoring mechanisms or synthetical supervision units to evaluate the results of resettlement and implementation of migrants lawful rights and interests, in order to get the information completely and objectively. According to the complete survey on the spot of migrants level of productive employment around the Shimenkan hydroelectric station at March 2012, and linking with the development of local society and economy, objective assessment was given to evaluate the state of resettlement, resumption of living standard and social adaptation. This paper sums up the experience and gives suggestions to the problems on this resettlement planning. At the implementation of the planning stage, resettlement points which were planned at the research phase were cancelled after investigating the remainder resources around reservoir and listening to the migrants opinions. Settling the problem right on the spot was chose to replace relocation. The plan after optimizing and adjusting was successful by way of practice.
Time Series Behaviour of Aging R/C Bridge Girders beyond Design Stage
Authors: Sagar Amit , de Silva Saman , Setunge Sujeeva
Published: October 2013

Aging reinforced concrete (R/C) bridge girders, currently in use, exhibit cracks wider than predicted at the design stage. Variation in material properties over time and increase in imposed live loads during service life can be the possible reasons for this behavioural difference. Visual condition monitoring reports of bridge assets do not seem to provide a more quantifiable explanation to this phenomenon. Therefore, authors propose a theoretical time dependent methodology, to predict the crack widths with age. The proposed method takes into consideration flexural stresses, shrinkage and creep. A bridge girder, currently in use, is analysed using proposed theoretical approach and the outcomes are compared with condition monitoring records available.
Based on ANSYS Analysis of Suspension Bridge Transient Dynamics
Authors: Xing Bang Sheng , Wang Xue Feng , Li Wei
Published: October 2013

By using the finite element analysis software ANSYS to do the first 10 order modal analysis of suspension bridge, obtaining the natural frequency and natural vibration model, to avoid the structure has resonance phenomenon. The results show that inherent frequencies of the first 10 order of the suspension bridge are far less than the excitation frequency of vehicle, the speed of mobile has obvious influence on the mid-span nodes deflection, when the vehicle goes through the suspension bridge, it usually travels at low speed; vehicles traveling at the same direction have a greater impact on the suspension bridge structure, the maximum mid-span node deflection of the suspension bridge decreases with the increasing of angular frequency.
Aerodynamic Forces of Stay Cables Incorporating in Flutier Analysis
Authors: Ouyang Ke Jian , Long Yi , Peng Bi Cao
Published: October 2013

With the length of stay cables close to 580m, only inclusion in aerodynamic forces of main deck cannot reflect the actual situation during wind-resistant design. The aerodynamic forces of stay cables should be considered in the three-dimensional flutter analysis of cable-stayed bridges. In this paper, mathematic expressions of unsteady aerodynamic force of stay cable were then derived in terms of aerodynamic damping and stiffness matrices. The above procedure is implemented into NACS by an independent module. As an example, the multimode flutter analysis of Sutong Bridge was conducted by using NACS. Fair agreement is achieved between the present numerical simulation and wind tunnel test results.
Static Analysis of Prestressed Concrete Cantilever Bridge
Authors: Li Xiao Ke , Yin Jun Lian , Liu Shi Ming
Published: October 2013

Due to geological conditions at abutment, working mechanism and economy, a prestressed concrete bridge with double cantilevers is designed. Main dimensions and drawings are introduced and static analytical results of prestressed concrete cantilever bridge are discussed. The numerical model was built by the integrated solution system for bridge and civil Engineering-MIDAS/Civil. The main loads which affect internal force and deflection at key sections of bridge are studied, such as mid-point, support point and free end of cantilever bridge. The rules which loads affect internal forces and deflections are revealed. The results show that dead weight is an important load to control internal force and deformation of bridge with double cantilevers. The design and numerical results would give some references to the optimization of similar bridges.
Pre-Camber Analysis for Hanging Cradle Construction of Qinhe Bridge
Authors: Chen Ji Hao , Liu Sen , Gao Yu Jia , Sun Yong Peng
Published: October 2013

In order to ensure the safety of long-span continuous prestressed concrete girder bridge constructed by hanging cradle method, a pre-camber is always made to reduce shrinkage and creep in the process of post-operation, the late loss of pre-stressed, deformation produced by live load and so on. Combining with Qinhe Bridge, how to install the pre-camber is studied in this paper. The maximum pre-cambers and their locations of every span of Qinhe Bridge are determined by the method of standard JTG D62-2004 with the finite element analysis software MIDAS/CIVIL. The results show that the final pre-camber curves calculated by the method of standard JTG D62-2004 and quadratic parabolic method have cusps, which cannot meet the standard requirements for the smooth of the bridge. But the slop of the final pre-camber curve calculated by cosine curve at the maximum pre-cambers and the pier top is zero, and the slop of curve from pier top to the mid-span is small, which satisfy the standard requirements for the smooth of bridge. Therefore, the final pre-camber curve should be calculated by cosine curve.
Checking and Strengthening Scaffolding of the Home Block for Hanging Cradle Construction of Qinhe Bridge
Authors: Chen Ji Hao , Gao Yu Jia , Liu Sen , Sun Yong Peng
Published: October 2013

In order to ensure the safety of the scaffolding of the home block for hanging cradle construction, this paper makes use of probabilistic limit state method, and carries out the checking computation. According to the actual drawings of the Qinhe bridge and the actual load case, the analytical model is established through the finite element analysis software MIDAS/CIVIL. The results show that the slant tube may be flexural buckling, and the stress of side standing tube is over the design strength of material, so that there is potential danger of the scaffolding. After the horizontal tubes were installed along the boundary of scaffolding, the stresses of all tubes are less than the design strength of corresponding material.
A Review of Research Situation on Shield Tunnel Diseases
Authors: Liu Chi , Lai Jin Xing , Liu Quan
Published: October 2013

Diseases such as segment cracks, damage, dislocation, water leakage often occur during the construction and operation process of shield tunnel, which will threaten the safety of running trains and shorten the maintenance cycle and service life. Based on previous research on shield tunnel diseases, the paper makes an analysis of the detection methods, causes of diseases, evaluation and repairment. Combining with the personal understanding of practical projects, the authors put forward some problems about the current research.
Study on Construction of Long Span and Soft Rock Tunnel with Numerical Simulation
Authors: Zhu Bin , Shi Xiao Jing
Published: October 2013

With characteristics of the long span and soft rock tunnel, this paper analyzes the main factors affecting tunnel stable on the basis of the way of tunnel excavation method. The large finite element program is used in research of a tunnel, with a numerical simulation of two different way, top heading and bench method and double side drift method. From the result of stress field and displacement field of the tunnel , some useful conclusion are obtained, that double side drift method is appropriate for this kind of soft rock tunnel.
Study on Safety Measures against Fire in Single Highway Tunnel for Subtended Traffic
Authors: Wang Ya Qiong , Xia Feng Yong , Jiang Xue Meng
Published: October 2013

In order to solve the influence of fire and smoke on personnel in highway tunnel for subtended traffic, analysis of measures against the fire in tunnel from structure was conducted. When the tunnel is on fire, smoke hazards lie in high temperature gas and smoke will choke people to cause deaths, fire hazards mainly lie in high temperature which will burn people to cause deaths. The separation pattern of people and smoke, and the separation pattern of people and fire are put forward. Analysis results show that unilateral closed repair road widened to 100cm is a new and feasible solution. Applying the means of setting up symmetrical emergency parking strips in the single tunnel for subtended traffic can help vehicle escape in the tunnel on fire. Setting rail car on the unilateral repair road in the single tunnel for subtended traffic can realize the separation model of people and fire. The results are significant for safety measures against fire in tunnels, and can provide reference for the subtended traffic design.
3-D FE Analysis on Loading Performance of Tunnel Under-Across Main Canal of South-to-North Water Transfer Project
Authors: Liu Gui Rong , Xiang Shi Hai , Li Xiao Ke , Zhao Shun Bo
Published: October 2013

Under the background of engineering application, a 3-D FE analysis was carried out to evaluate the loading performance of a two-hole pair-arch tunnel under-across the main canal of South-to-North Water Transfer Project. In fact, the tunnel was constructed in integral longitudinally without obeying the design requirement of parting within certain length. The analysis showed that the vertical deformation and tensile stress along the longitudinal axis are obviously affected by the loads from main canal, moreover, the tensile stress exceeds the limit of tensile strength of concrete, which may lead thoroughly cracks on top plate of tunnel. This analysis determined the crack zone which should be dealt with.
Cooperativity of CD44 and CD49d in Leukemia Cell Homing, Migration, and Survival Offers a Means for Therapeutic Attack
Authors: Singh Vibuthi , Erb Ulrike , Zöller Margot
Published: October 2013

A CD44 blockade drives leukemic cells into differentiation and apoptosis by dislodging from the osteogenic niche. Because anti-CD49d also supports hematopoietic stem cell mobilization, we sought to determine the therapeutic efficacy of a joint CD49d/CD44 blockade. To unravel the underlying mechanism, the CD49d− EL4 lymphoma was transfected with CD49d or point-mutated CD49d, prohibiting phosphorylation and FAK binding; additionally, a CD44− Jurkat subline was transfected with murine CD44, CD44 with a point mutation in the ezrin binding site, or with cytoplasmic tail–truncated CD44. Parental and transfected EL4 and Jurkat cells were evaluated for adhesion, migration, and apoptosis susceptibility in vitro and in vivo. Ligand-binding and Ab-blocking studies revealed CD44–CD49d cooperation in vitro and in vivo in adhesion, migration, and apoptosis resistance. The cooperation depends on ligand-induced proximity such that both CD44 and CD49d get access to src, FAK, and paxillin and via lck to the MAPK pathway, with the latter also supporting antiapoptotic molecule liberation. Accordingly, synergisms were only seen in leukemia cells expressing wild-type CD44 and CD49d. Anti-CD44 together with anti-CD49d efficiently dislodged EL4-CD49d/Jurkat-CD44 in bone marrow and spleen. Dislodging was accompanied by increased apoptosis susceptibility that strengthened low-dose chemotherapy, the combined treatment most strongly interfering with metastatic settlement and being partly curative. Ab treatment also promoted NK and Ab-dependent cellular cytotoxicity activation, which affected leukemia cells independent of CD44/CD49d tail mutations. Thus, mostly owing to a blockade of joint signaling, anti-CD44 and anti-CD49d hamper leukemic cell settlement and break apoptosis resistance, which strongly supports low-dose chemotherapy.
Genome-Wide siRNA Screen Reveals a New Cellular Partner of NK Cell Receptor KIR2DL4: Heparan Sulfate Directly Modulates KIR2DL4-Mediated Responses
Authors: Brusilovsky Michael , Cordoba Moti , Rosental Benyamin , Hershkovitz Oren , Andrake Mark D. , Pecherskaya Anna , Einarson Margret B. , Zhou Yan , Braiman Alex , Campbell Kerry S. , Porgador Angel
Published: October 2013

KIR2DL4 (CD158d) is a distinct member of the killer cell Ig-like receptor (KIR) family in human NK cells that can induce cytokine production and cytolytic activity in resting NK cells. Soluble HLA-G, normally expressed only by fetal-derived trophoblast cells, was reported to be a ligand for KIR2DL4; however, KIR2DL4 expression is not restricted to the placenta and can be found in CD56high subset of peripheral blood NK cells. We demonstrated that KIR2DL4 can interact with alternative ligand(s), expressed by cells of epithelial or fibroblast origin. A genome-wide high-throughput siRNA screen revealed that KIR2DL4 recognition of cell-surface ligand(s) is directly regulated by heparan sulfate (HS) glucosamine 3-O-sulfotransferase 3B1 (HS3ST3B1). KIR2DL4 was found to directly interact with HS/heparin, and the D0 domain of KIR2DL4 was essential for this interaction. Accordingly, exogenous HS/heparin can regulate cytokine production by KIR2DL4-expressing NK cells and HEK293T cells (HEK293T-2DL4), and induces differential localization of KIR2DL4 to rab5+ and rab7+ endosomes, thus leading to downregulation of cytokine production and degradation of the receptor. Furthermore, we showed that intimate interaction of syndecan-4 (SDC4) HS proteoglycan (HSPG) and KIR2DL4 directly affects receptor endocytosis and membrane trafficking.
Prevention of nosocomial infections in low resource countries
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh R. , Shrivastava Prateek S. , Ramasamy Jegadeesh
Published: October 2013

Not available.
How objective are protected area management effectiveness assessments? A case study from the iSimangaliso Wetland Park
Authors: Carbutt Clinton , Goodman Peter S.
Published: October 2013

The assessment of protected area management effectiveness was developed out of a genuine desire to improve the way protected areas are managed and reported on, in relation to a formalised set of conservation objectives. For monitoring and reporting purposes, a number of participatory methods of rapidly assessing management effectiveness were developed. Most rapid assessment methods rely on scoring a range of protected area-related activities against an objective set of criteria documented in a formal questionnaire. This study evaluated the results of two applications of the same management effectiveness assessment tool applied to the same protected area, namely the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa. The manner in which the assessments were undertaken differed considerably and, not unexpectedly, so did the results, with the national assessment scoring significantly higher than the provincial assessment. Therefore, a further aim was to evaluate the operating conditions applied to each assessment, with a view to determining which assessment was more closely aligned with best practice and hence which score was more credible. The application of the tool differed mainly with respect to the level of spatial detail entered into for the evaluation, the depth and breadth of the management hierarchy that was consulted, the time in which the assessment was undertaken and the degree of peer review applied. Disparate scores such as those obtained in the assessments documented here are likely to bring the discipline of management effectiveness assessment into disrepute unless an acceptable and standardised set of operating procedures is developed and adopted. Recommendations for such a set of ‘indispensable constants’ were made in this article to ensure that management effectiveness assessments remain robust and reputable, thereby ensuring an honest picture of what is happening on the ground. Conservation implications: We proposed that standard operating procedures should be in place when protected area management effectiveness assessments are undertaken, in order for the results to be credible. This involves ensuring that the right people participate and that each participant is allowed sufficient time to peer review each other.
Women, nation and voicing in Sharai Mukonoweshuro’s Shona novels
Authors: Vambe Maurice T.
Published: October 2013

The article explores the fictional representation of women in two of Sharai Mukonoweshuro’s novels, Akafuratidzwa Moyo and Ndakagara Ndazviona. Traditional Shona expectations of how a woman should behave have prescribed the roles that women are expected to play in society. In Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), colonialism invented customary laws in which women were further downgraded to social positions akin to those of minors. Although the nationalist struggle was essentially meant to guarantee freedom for all Black people irrespective of gender, the male elites constructed the identity of Black women as their inferior ‘other’. Against this background this article argues that Sharai Mukonoweshuro’s novels struggle against these male sanctioned stereotypes. However, as will be shown, Mukonoweshuro’s mode of resistance to female stereotypes is ambivalent in the sense that the author constructs young women who defy patriarchy on the one hand and, on the other hand, old women who do the unthinkable act of poisoning their own sons.
Knowledge, attitudes and practices about contraception amongst schoolgirls aged 12–14 years in two schools in King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality, Eastern Cape
Authors: Mda Pamela , O’Mahony Don , Yogeswaran Parimalarani , Wright Graham
Published: October 2013

Background: In South Africa the teenage fertility rate is high. About 42% of women have their sexual debut by 18 years of age and 5% by 15. These young women are also at risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Despite widespread availability of contraception, 18% of sexually active teenagers do not use any. Previous research on the knowledge of, attitudes to and practices of contraception by teenagers has focused on older adolescents.Objectives: This study explored knowledge, attitudes and practices about contraception amongst 12–14 year old unmarried schoolgirls with a view to inform planning of programmes to assist in reducing teenage pregnancies.Methods: A qualitative study design with purposive sampling was used to select participants from two government-run schools in King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality. In-depth and focus group interviews were conducted after obtaining written consent from parents and assent from participants. Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim, translated and analysed thematically.Findings: Participants reported that young adolescents were sexually active, which included high risk sexual behaviour such as multiple partners and casual and transactional sex. Knowledge about contraceptives varied widely. Condoms were the most preferred method of contraception, but it is unknown whether they ever used condoms as they professed to talk about the behaviour of others rather than themselves. Injectable contraceptives were believed to have long-term negative effects. Common sources of contraceptive information were friends or peers, school curriculum and to a lesser extent family members.Conclusions: Findings of the study suggest that young adolescents are sexually active and have inadequate knowledge and misconceptions about contraception. These findings should inform educational programmes about risks of early sexual activity and about contraception.
Investigating the quality and content of five teachers’ reflection on their teaching of mathematics
Authors: Posthuma A. Barbara , Maree Jacobus G. , Stols Gerrit
Published: October 2013

Not much research has been done on mathematics teachers’ reflective practice in South Africa. This article reports on the quality and content of mathematics teachers’ reflections on a lesson within the context of lesson study. The aim of the study was to investigate the quality and content of five mathematics teachers’ reflections before, during and after teaching a lesson. The five teachers (two males, three females) reflected collaboratively on their own as well as on their colleagues’ teaching of mathematics. The teachers were selected purposely to participate in the study. Qualitative data were gathered using interviews, lesson plans, classroom observations and reflective writings. The findings indicated that whereas all the mathematics teachers reflected on-action verbally and in writing, three of the teachers reflected in-action while teaching. Based on lesson plan analysis, there was no evidence that these teachers reflected for-action. Two teachers reflected critically on their learners’ understanding of mathematics and their own teaching of concepts. Being a member of the lesson study group experience emerged as a contextual factor that seemed to influence these teachers’ reflections in a positive way. However, the teachers’ inadequate linguistic skills and inability to verbalise basic mathematical concepts properly seemed to influence their reflective practice negatively.
Nondiabetic Renal Disease in type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients: A Clinicopathological Study
Authors: Wilfred Devadass Clement , Mysorekar Vijaya Viswanath , Venkataramana Raju S , Eshwarappa Mahesh , Subramanyan Revathi
Published: October 2013

Background: The prevalence of nondiabetic renal disease (NDRD) among type 2 diabetics varies widely depending on the populations being studied and the selection criteria. Also, for patients found to have NDRD different predicting factors have been identified by different studies.

Objectives: To determine: (i) Frequency and spectrum of NDRD in type 2 diabetics with atypical clinical renal disease, in our set up and (ii) common clinical markers that are associated with NDRD in our local population.

Materials and Methods: Ninety-three type 2 diabetic patients with atypical clinical renal disease who had undergone renal biopsy to rule out NDRD were recruited. Patients were grouped into Group 1 with isolated NDRD, Group 2 with NDRD superimposed on diabetic nephropathy (DN), and Group 3 with isolated DN; and their clinical and biochemical parameters were statistically analyzed using analysis of variance, Kruskal-Wallis test, and Chi-square tests of statistical significance.

Results: 68.8% of the patients had NDRD with or without concurrent DN. Patients with isolated NDRD had shorter duration of diabetes compared to the other groups. Absence of retinopathy and presence of microscopic hematuria and active urinary sediment had positive predictive value of 79.24, 81, and 100%, respectively, for NDRD in type 2 diabetics. Chronic interstitial nephritis was the commonest NDRD and membranous glomerulonephritis was the commonest glomerular NDRD in our setup.

Interpretation and Conclusions: The frequency of NDRD in type 2 diabetics with atypical clinical renal disease is high in our setup thereby making the renal biopsy procedure imperative to rule out the same. Shorter duration of diabetes, absence of retinopathy, presence of microscopic hematuria, and active urinary sediment are markers associated with NDRD in type 2 diabetes with clinical renal disease.
A Rare Case of Primary Lymphoma of the Caecum Presenting as Intussusception
Authors: Jayabackthan Leena , Murgi Sandeep Babukumar , Graham Shane , Kini Reshma G
Published: October 2013

Mucosa associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphomas are rare neoplasms. They are most common in the stomach followed by small intestine and colon. The symptoms are nonspecific and generally do not present with intussusception. Here we report a rare clinical entity in which a 35-year-old female presented to the emergency with severe abdominal pain which was sudden in onset. History revealed that she had been having vague mild abdominal pain for 2 years. Ultrasonography showed ileocolic intussusception with hypoechoic lesion of 54 x 46 mm seen at the lead point. Emergency laparotomy with the right hemi-colectomy was done. The specimen was sent for histopathological examination which revealed a diagnosis of MALT lymphoma. Awareness of the varied clinical presentation helps in formulating the appropriate therapeutic strategy.
Can a Postmortem Skin Biopsy Predict Cause of Death?
Authors: Sukheeja Deepti , Shanmugam Janani , Subramanian Arulselvi , Lalwani Sanjeev
Published: October 2013

Electrocution continues to be a major cause of death among workers because they and their employers do not recognize the importance of safety training and implementing safe practices. Part of the reason is that at home and on the job we take electricity for granted. Relying on the benefits of electricity, we may forget its hazards. Death due to electrocution can occur without any marks on body. Skin biopsy of an autopsy case of a male, plumber by occupation, who was brought dead to the hospital, was examined to find out the cause of death. Electrical marks were observed on his palm during autopsy and were supposedly thought to be the cause of death. The histopathology of skin lesion confirmed the diagnosis. We, hereby, report this case as the histopathology in electrocution has rarely been discussed in papers and it can aid in investigations to know the cause of death in unknown cases.
Primary Intestinal Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: An Uncommon Presentation
Authors: Sharma Shruti , Rana Safia , Kapur Sujala , Jairajpuri Zeeba Shamim
Published: October 2013

Primary intestinal lymphoma is a rare lymphoproliferative neoplasm of the small intestine. The primary nature is established on the basis of lack of evidence of lymphoma on chest X-ray, computerized tomographic scan, peripheral blood or bone marrow puncture. Tumor involvement is limited to the gastrointestinal tract, the criteria for inclusion are that the symptoms related to the small intestine are predominant or the only symptoms at the time of laparotomy. Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) primarily in the small intestine is a rare entity and an uncommon presentation of the disease. Ileum is the more common site of infliction than the jejunum because of its abundant lymphoid follicles. Here, we present a case of primary intestinal HL, in a 30-year-old male.