bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BASAL STUDY ON SIMPLE THICKNESS EVALUATION FOR ROAD-LIGHTING POLES WITH LOCAL CORROSION NEAR THE BASEPLATE
Authors: Mitsunaga Tomohiro , Kaita Tatsumasa , Fujii Katashi
Published: March 2020

In this study, a simple thickness evaluation method was proposed for corroded road-lighting poles based on thickness measurement results of a dismantled road-lighting pole which had been used for about 40 years. The remaining thickness in cross-section of this specimen was measured by using both of Ultrasonic Thickness Gauge (UTG) and 3D portable laser scanner in order to investigate the accuracy of average thickness which could be obtained from only 4 measuring points at intervals of 90 degrees in circular cross-section. In this UTG measurement, the smoothing process, which will be carried out ordinarily by using electric grinder around measuring points, was abbreviated from the considering of labor-saving and additional thickness loss. From the measurement results, UTG measurement under the condition of no smoothing process will overestimate the actual remaining average thickness depending on surface roughness due to corrosion. Finally, an example of simple thickness evaluation, which uses average thickness and standard deviation based on only four measuring points, was shown for more reasonable UTG inspection of corroded road-lighting poles.
INFLUENCE OF THE SLOPE FOR THE DISTORTION EFFECT OF PRE-STRESSED SKEWED BOX-SECTION GIRDER BRIDGE
Authors: Bu Jian-Qing , Li Shuo
Published: March 2020

In order to analyze the distortion effects of the skewed PC box-section girder bridge, a simply-supported and three-span continuous skewed PC box-section girder bridge models are built by using the finite element analysis software ANSYS in this paper. First of all, the distortion effects in the longitudinal direction are analyzed for the bridge models and the most disadvantage section are found. Then the longitudinal distortion effects how to vary with the slope is discussed. The results show that the influence of slope is remarkable, with the increase of slope, distortion is becoming more and more large, and it is proportional to the slope degree, the distortion angle of 1/4 span and 3/4 cross section of the bridge is the largest. Therefore, in the process of design, construction and maintenance, the deformation of unfavorable cross section should be paid special attention.
EXPERIMENTAL EVALUATION OF PIPE-SHAPE SHEAR CONNECTORS FOR MULTI-BEAM BOX GIRDER BRIDGES
Authors: Heo Won-Ho , Jung Chi-Young , Lee Hyun-Min , Kim Sang-Hyo
Published: March 2020

This study mainly focused on the experimental evaluation of pipe-shape shear connectors for multi-beam box girder bridges. The multi-beam box girder bridges are a structure to the integration with the box girders placed adjacent to each other. They are generally connected by shear keys and loop joints to resist the shear force at their interfaces, and lateral tendons for applying the compression force. However, if the integration effect decreases with time, the relative deflection between adjacent girders occurs and it causes the reflective cracks on the deck along the interfaces. Furthermore, the efficiency of constructing multi-beam box girder bridges decreases when loop joints are used because it is complicated to form the required connections using couplers. Therefore, this study evaluated behavior of pipe-shape shear connectors which are superior in workability and ductility than loop joints by push-out tests and pull-out tests.
DETERMINING RESIDUAL STRESSES IN WELDED CONNECTIONS OF ORTHOTROPIC STEEL BRIDGE DECKS WITH A HOLE-DRILLING TECHNIQUE
Authors: Nagy Wim , Van Bogaert Philippe , De Backer Hans
Published: March 2020

Manufacturing processes such as welding operations cause residual stresses that are present in most civil structures. They cause plastic deformations without any external loads and are therefore often overlooked during design. Nevertheless, residual stresses can have profound influences on material strength and fatigue life. This is also true for orthotropic steel bridge decks, which have many complex welding details. Because little is known about the distribution of residual stresses due to welding, a semi-destructive experimental test setup is developed for a stiffener-to-deck plate connection on an orthotropic steel bridge deck. In particular, the hole-drilling technique is used. With this experimental test setup, a clear distribution of the residuals stresses becomes visible. Residual stresses up to the yield strength can be found near the weld and up to 50% of the yield strength elsewhere. However, more research is needed to verify why the sign of the stresses is opposite to the expected stresses in the literature.
REPAIRABILITY AND RECOVERY OF REPAIRED STEEL FRAMED STRUCTURES EXPERIENCING ULTIMATE STATE
Authors: Ito Takumi , Mori Kenjiro , Matsumoto Takeshi
Published: March 2020

Recently, there are many discussions about repairability and recovery for damaged buildings after severe disasters, and new keywords such as “Resilience” and “Redundancy” have been closed-up. This paper investigates the repairability of damaged steel building structures which experienced severe disasters such as earthquake input motions. At first, the analytical model for repaired steel member is explained, and also its applicability is represented by comparison with past test results. The next, the ultimate states of steel framed model of original state and repairing state under seismic loads are calculated by limit analysis. Herein, an analytical frame model is designed that the whole story collapse mode is predominated in original state. And also, to adjust the failure mode of frame after repair, a various strategy of repairing portion in frame is assumed. From the analytical results, it is observed that the strength and energy absorption are enhanced if the adequate repairing strategy is adopted to generate the whole collapse failure mode. That is, it can be said that these repaired frame has high repairability and resilience.
EVALUATION ON ELONGATION OF REBAR BY USING IMAGE PROCESSING METHOD
Authors: Jung Chi-Young , Woo Tae-Ryeon , Yoon Da-Woon , Park Dong-Uk , Cheung Jin-Hwan
Published: March 2020

In this study, longitudinal strain distributions of rebars in the uniaxial tension test are evaluated with an image processing method (IPM). The measurements of strain are conducted till rebar is ruptured. As a result of the test, the detailed longitudinal strain distributions of rebar in the tension test are clarified and the results show that the strain at necking region are almost 2-3 times of average strain in the gauge length of specimen. After the stress of rebar is reached at ultimate strength, the most of elongations are concentrated at necking region. In the other region except necking region, therefore, the strains are merely increased till the end of test. From these results, it is estimated that the necking region can make the over estimation of elongation of rebar, therefore, the estimation except the necking region can be suggested to evaluate the true elongation of rebar. Also the measured results with IPM are compared with the measured results by using conventional strain gauge. It is estimated that the IPM shows some noise in data, but the IPM has advantages to measure the strain distribution to the range of rupture. Therefore if the image acquisition of the better resolution and better quality are possible, it can be a good alternative measuring method for the strain measurement.
DETRIMENTAL EFFECTS OF WIND-INDUCED BUILDING MOTION ON OCCUPANT WORK AND TASK PERFORMANCE
Authors: Kwok K. C. S. , Lamb S. , Wong K. S.
Published: March 2020

We present recent multidisciplinary research conducted by psychologists, engineers and physiologists investigating the effects of wind-induced building motion on wellbeing, manual task performance and cognitive performance. In a sample of actual office workers, we show that sopite syndrome is the main consequence of exposure to wind-induced building motion. Sopite syndrome, a form of mild motion sickness characterized by drowsiness and low motivation, is the main cause of reductions in work performance. Experimental research shows that biomechanical properties of the human body are influenced by the frequency of motion, which amplifies body sway and interferes with task performance at 0.5 Hz, and to a greater extent with increases in acceleration. Exposure to motion induced sopite syndrome in some participants, who performed significantly worse than unaffected individuals. A new generation of serviceability criteria should aim to minimize sopite syndrome, motion sickness, motion induced body sway, and other psychological and physiological factors, rather than only address perception thresholds, which will likely allow engineers and designers to create a new generation of buildings that will ensure an improved level of comfort and performance for building occupants.
ISSUES IN THE CONSTRUCTION PROCUREMENT PROCESS
Authors: Abdul Lateef Olanrewaju , Anavhe Paul Junior
Published: March 2020

The ability of a completed construction to meet the value systems of its stakeholders depends on the activities and procedure throughout the entire supply chain. Before deciding on a construction development, procurement planning should be comprehensive. We argue that a major problem leading to poor performance of projects is inadequate understanding or engagement with the procurement planning process. This emphasizes the clear need to research procurement planning by assessing its purposes. Through survey questionnaires, 13 purposes for undertaking procurement planning are identified for construction players to evaluate the extent to which procurement planning is undertaken. The results indicate that the immediate reasons for the procurement process include determining the expectations of the clientele, provide a means for the stakeholders’ to interact, and selecting the appropriate procurement method to suit the client’s value system. According to the results of survey, none of the purposes displayed poor results. 95% of the respondents measured that procurement planning are used for construction development. The findings of this paper highlight the importance of systematic procurement planning for improving construction performance.
NON-LINEARITIES IN THE CALCULATION OF CONSTRUCTION COSTS
Authors: Kummer Markus
Published: March 2020

In construction projects, losses of productivity often incur additional costs and construction time delays, giving rise to disputes and legal proceedings, and the commissioning of expert opinions. In practice, it is usually assumed that labor consumption rates remain constant even if influential parameters change, which means a linear output curve. Only a few approaches to determining and calculating losses of productivity are presented in the literature, largely considering influences only on a certain subset of productivity. However, various disruptions may occur at the same time during the construction period, which is why the individual losses of productivity affect each other, thus aggravating their effects. This paper demonstrates how various losses of productivity – in relation to reinforced-concrete works – can be aggregated. Furthermore, this model subsequently enables both deterministic and probabilistic evaluations whilst considering the non-linear correlations between changes in the influential parameters and the resulting losses of productivity. In the probabilistic approach, the potential risk and/or chance can be captured using distribution functions. Decisions can thus be made on the basis of a defined certainty level. This approach aims to optimize the utilization of productivity factors and determine costs according to their sources, if available resources cannot be used optimally and productivity losses appear likely.
TOWARDS ZERO CONSTRUCTION FATALITIES, INJURIES, AND DISEASES
Authors: Smallwood John , Emuze Fidelis
Published: March 2020

This study explores the 'holy grail' of health and safety (H&S)-zero fatalities, injuries, and disease! Although, the logic of pursuing such a goal is obvious there are many 'non-believers' in the sense that they do not believe it is achievable. However, the literature indicates that such a goal is an integral part of H&S culture and is complementary to the vision of fatality, injury, and disease free construction. Furthermore, it is the only 'transparent' goal. A study conducted among ‘better practice H&S’ general contractors (GCs) determined the following: subscription to such a goal is an integral part of H&S culture, and a pre-requisite for optimum H&S performance; such a goal is achievable, and there are a range of complementary interventions such as optimum resourcing of H&S, management commitment, participation, and involvement, and optimum H&S training. Conclusions and recommendations include: optimum H&S and the achievement of zero fatalities, injuries, and disease requires a goal of zero fatalities, injuries, and disease; industry H&S programs must focus on H&S culture; contractors must be enlightened in terms of the need to subscribe to such a goal, and the complementary interventions, and case studies that document the achievement of zero fatalities, injuries, and disease must be conducted.
BOXED HOUSES: A SIMPLE METHOD FOR HOUSING
Authors: O'Brien Michael J.
Published: March 2020

The 19th century saw many innovations in housing, most notably the balloon and platform framing methods that dominate low-rise housing construction in the U.S. to this day. But there was an alternative; from 1815 through the 1950’s whenever Americans needed semi-permanent shelter they built structures with simple thin boards acting simultaneously as structure and enclosure. These “shanties,” “box-houses,” “single-walls,” were built in New England canal towns, midwestern railroad camps, and as disaster relief camps following the great 1906 earthquake in San Francisco. Thousands were likely built as housing, utility, and mercantile structures, perhaps hundreds remain in service today. But few design and construction professionals know of this construction method. This paper will present the principles of structure and a case study in construction. This little known mode of constructing shelter has great potential as second stage disaster recovery housing. It is durable, some lasting over 100 years, can be built with unskilled/semi-skilled labor with few tools and fasteners, and is easily flat-packed for shipping to disaster regions.
NEW DRAFTS FOR THE INTEGRATION OF MODERN TECHNOLOGIES AND METHODS IN EDUCATION AND TRAINING
Authors: Meins-Becker Anica , Kelm Agnes , Laußat Lars , Helmus Manfred
Published: March 2020

Today, modern technologies and methods of the improvement of the digitization in Germany – e.g., the application of the Radio Frequency identification (RFID) technology also in connection with the method of the Building Information Modeling (BIM) – find increased implementation in construction economy and real estate economy in Germany. For many years, the research team of the Chair of Construction Management & Economics of the Bergische University of Wuppertal has dealt with the development of those modern technologies and methods. Now these subjects are transferred into new education and training programs. These programs are based and further developed on the present knowledge. For the education of students in Germany, different study drafts will be developed in cooperation with the Jade University of Oldenburg. Construction engineers and architects will be taught a process-oriented method with the use of BIM, integrating the application of modern technologies comprehensively along the life cycle of buildings. Furthermore, within the research project “BIM-based construction with RFID technology”, there was developed an integrated teaching demonstration module which shows the data exchange and data consistency in the life cycle of buildings very clearly. For a period of 2 years, this specific demonstration module will be presented to the public and different institutions, like educational centers, universities, building contractors and developer of the industry. An international comparison of these attempts offers interesting aspects concerning any transference potential. The conference contribution will contain the first results of new drafts for integration of modern technologies and methods in the education and training for the construction and real estate economy in Germany.
IMPROVEMENT OF FINITE ELEMENT MESH QUALITY BY USING GEOMETRICAL QUALITY MEASURES AND OPTIMIZATION
Authors: Kegl Marko , Harl Boštjan , Dinevski Dejan
Published: March 2020

This paper discusses possible procedures to improve finite element meshes in order to enable an accurate and stable numerical analysis processes. In general, the process of mesh improvement has to address three main aspects: mesh untangling (removal or fix of inverted finite elements), improvement of element shape, and making the element sizes more uniform. This paper focusses on the last two aspects: improving shape and size uniformity. This problem is addressed from purely geometrical aspect and by engaging optimization methods; thus, stress/strain related finite element quality measures are not considered. Two various element quality measures are discussed with emphasis on their coupling with an adequate optimization procedure. These two measures are the inverse mean ratio measure and the size measure. The first one addresses the shape and size of finite elements, but concentrates more on the shape. The later one, on the other hand, addresses only finite element size. Since mesh improvement tasks are typical multi-objective optimization problems, the paper also addresses briefly the procedure how to transform the multi-objective problem into a usual single-objective one that can be solved by employing standard optimization techniques. In this work a gradient-based approximation method was employed to do the optimization. The discussed theory is numerically tested on simply deformed meshes.
FIELD ASSESSMENT OF DYNAMIC CONE PENETRATION TEST TO EVALUATE SAND DENSITY
Authors: Hamid Abdulrahman M. , Aiban Saad A. , Al-Amoudi Omar S. Baghabra
Published: March 2020

Rapid and accurate in-situ measurement of soil properties is still a challenge facing the construction industry and there is a need for new and advanced devices and methods. Dynamic cone penetration test (DCPT) is an effective device used for field exploration and quality assessment of subsoil. DCPT could be used to predict the engineering properties of sand because it is difficult to perform conventional density tests, such as the sand replacement method, especially when loose or submerged sandy soil is encountered. Two cases of DCP field testing were conducted in Al-Jubail and Ras Al-Khair, eastern Saudi Arabia, where the major petrochemical industries are located. These tests were utilized to evaluate the potential use of DCPT to assess the density during the construction of backfills, whereby the nuclear gauge was also used to accurately measure the in situ soil density and water content. The DCP-nuclear gauge data clearly indicated that there is a good correlation between the dry density obtained from the nuclear gauge and the dynamic cone penetration (DCP) readings, which proves that the DCPT is an effective and reliable tool in the assessment of in situ compaction of sand backfills.
APPLICATION OF COST SIGNIFICANT ITEMS TOWARDS IMPROVING ESTIMATION FOR LIFE CYCLE COSTING OF BUILDING PROJECTS
Authors: Alqahtani Ayedh , Whyte Andrew
Published: March 2020

Construction projects have numerous variable factors affecting the value of life cycle-cost (LCC) and there is interaction between these factors, leading to complicated process. Therefore the current LCC models suffer from the absence of a standardized and a simple methodology of both the collection data and estimation LCC. Identification of the significant cost factors affecting the output of LCC is important step before embarking upon the collection of progress information. Furthermore, components of construction differ in their cost and time-importance, and thus management effort must be equivalently distributed. The concept of cost significant items (CSIs) is the best method to simplify estimation methodology as well as the collection data of construction projects. In general, The CSIs concept aims to determine the small number of items which represent a constant percentage of the LCC of construction projects. Therefore, this paper aims to present the explanation of each stage of LCC, the current classifications of asset components, the CSIs concept and previous practice of the significant cost items on the construction sector.
DESIGN PHASE MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST FOR STRUCTURAL DURABILITY
Authors: Hassanain Mohammad A. , Al-Hammad Abdul-Mohsen , Fatayer Fady
Published: March 2020

Previous studies have established that early attention to maintainability during the early design stages of building projects provides for delivering high levels of comfort to building occupants and reducing maintenance budgets. This paper identifies and assesses the set of structural durability design defects that are attributed to lack of maintenance manager’s feedback to the design team. The research confirmed the importance of all the identified design defects based on the assessment of the maintenance experts in the 13 public Saudi Arabian universities that operate and maintain significant building stock in their campuses. The paper presents a set of validated maintainability design review checklist for consideration by design professionals, in order to reduce the likelihood of occurrence of the identified defects. This paper serves to promote awareness among the various stakeholders in the construction industry about the earned benefits of knowledge transfer from the operation and maintenance field to the design team. It is of significant value to design professionals endeavoring on designing maintainable, cost-effective building projects; and maintenance professionals aiming to provide effective services to occupants and property owners.
DEVELOPMENT OF MAINTENANCE MANAGEMENT STANDARDS FOR FACILITIES OF LARGE PUBLIC ORGANIZATIONS
Authors: Al-Hammad Abdul-Mohsen A. , Hassanain Mohammad A. , Duffuaa Salih O. , Ben Lasod Saleh A.
Published: March 2020

Saudi Arabia is undergoing substantial growth in many sectors of the economy. This growth is evident mainly in the construction industry, through the development of several types of large facilities. Such facilities require comprehensive maintenance to keep them in operational condition, as originally designed. This study aims to develop maintenance management standards for facilities of large public organizations in Saudi Arabia. The methodology used to achieve the aim of this study involves two tasks. The first is to identify the quality criteria that could be included in the developed standards. This task entails a review of literature review and interviews with maintenance professionals. The second task comprises an assessment of the identified quality criteria by 40 maintenance professionals. Based on the results of the study, the standards have been developed, which include 20 measurable quality criteria, classified under four categories, namely technical, functional, behavioral and managerial.
ANALYSIS OF SUSTAINABLE MAINTENANCE BEHAVIORS IN HOUSING OPERATION
Authors: Abdul Lateef Olanrewaju , Tat Lee Lim , Yeow Tan Seong
Published: March 2020

While building maintenance is now recognized as a measure for sustainable development, the impacts are increasing and pose risks to sustainable development. However, attempts to increase consideration of sustainable practice in residential buildings have not yielded positive results. Behavioral practice has potential for change, so in this study the behaviors of maintenance service providers are explored to investigate the understanding of the supply side in the sustainable housing supply chain and marketplace. The results indicate that the major factors that impact sustainable maintenance behavior is a poor understanding of maintenance organizations towards sustainable residences. A maintenance behavioral model is presented to prompt interest in sustainable-maintenance management.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR CONSTRUCTION PROCESSES WITH BIM
Authors: Di Giuda G. M. , Villa V. B.
Published: March 2020

Within the construction process, we find a great deal of information that interests contractors, owners, designers, project managers and all people generally involved. The aim of this research was to organize all the information related to materials, products and parts, workers, equipment. This dossier (paper, study) is structured into five parts as follows: List of resources needed for the works; Resources analysis; Definition of the acceptance conditions for every working action related to the tasks and every production phase (initial, follow-up, final controls); Waste and emissions management; H&S aspects. Our model entails the identification of working actions in the following four processing stages: transport from storage (area) to processing area, preparation of materials needed for works, materials transportation to the installation area, implementation. The research was complemented by checks and tests performed on some companies involved in the project. Then all this information was entered in the BIM object. The aim was to manage operational information with the aid of BIM model. The sheet is configured as a valid support for an exhaustive analysis of the whole work process, both from a constructive, technologies, construction techniques and economic point of view, intended as a support to an early estimate and to a later accounting.
EXAMINATION OF MEDIUM AND LONG TERM EXPRESSWAY MANAGEMENT POLICY FOR IMPLEMENTATION
Authors: Yamada Y. , Obama K. , Kaito K.
Published: March 2020

In recent years, deterioration of expressways is the serious problem, and it is necessary to plan the medium and long term management policy. In this study, the authors examine the medium and long term management policy, using the accumulated enormous inspection data of road surface conditions. The future condition of road pavement is significantly different by the management system such as the budget, personal distribution or repair method, etc. The authors quantitatively evaluate the relation between the future condition of road pavement and the management system, of which the authors specially take up preventive repair by penetration repair agent. Then, the risk evaluation and the life cycle cost (hereinafter referred to as LCC) analysis can be conducted in deferent repair strategies by stochastic simulation. By using stochastic simulation as the method of these two evaluations, the comprehensive analysis can be conducted, considering the possible change of management surroundings in the medium and long term and various examinations for optimization.
PREDICTIONS OF DAMAGE TO BUILDINGS BY DEBRIS
Authors: Lam Nelson , Gad Emad
Published: March 2020

Impact by debris is a major cause of damage to buildings in hailstorms, windstorms and rockfalls. The effects of the impact need to be quantified so that protective installations including building facades, roof coverings and other forms of built installations that are exposed to the hazard, can be designed or retrofitted to withstand projected hazards in a rational and economical manner. This research covers this type of hazards in order to address the lack of information on physical properties of common debris materials, lack of guidelines on how to obtain reliable predictions of the impact, and the poor understanding of the fundamentals. The new knowledge and methodology to be developed in this poorly informed and understood area of technology should instill a new perspective to every engineer in their daily practices. Ultimately, a better understanding and quantification of impact forces would enable the development of innovative protective systems.
NUMERICAL ANALYSIS OF CONTROLLED LOW STRENGTH MATERIAL BRIDGE ABUTMENTS: STEADY STATE ELASTODYNAMIC ANALYSIS
Authors: Huang Li-Jeng , Sheen Yeong-Nain , Le Duc-Hien
Published: March 2020

This paper presents the steady-steady elasto-dynamic analysis of bridge abutment constructed using sustainable material, a controlled low-strength material (CLSM), using finite element (FE) and boundary element (BE) methods. The structure is constructed using full-height precast concrete panels that are attached to a CLSM backfill via steel anchors and can be employed as a replacement of traditional piling support systems. The Young’s moduli of CLSM are obtained from laboratory tests. Two-dimensional planar strain is employed in the FE and BE formulation of elasto-dynamic analyses. Typical examples will be employed for comparison study of backfill material using CLSM abutment and traditional piling support system with compacted soil. Emphasis is put on the comparison of different numerically computed natural frequencies and mode shapes of the conventional and CLSM abutment. Results show that CLSM abutment depicts higher natural frequencies as compared with conventional abutment and can be a suitable sustainable material employed for bridge abutment design and construction in highway and geotechnical engineering.
AGGREGATE MULTI-INCLUSION INTERACTION AND INTERFACE INFLUENCE ON CONCRETE COMPRESSION BEHAVIOR
Authors: Han Aylie , Gan Buntara Sthenly , Setiawan Yanuar
Published: March 2020

The presence of the interfacial transition zone (ITZ) between aggregates and the mortar matrix in concrete has been studied extensively. A numerical and experimental study involving concrete specimens with multi-inclusions was conducted, and the ITZ was modeled as a cutoff bar in the finite element analysis, representing the shear and tensile behavior. The mortar specimens were sized 100 mm by 100 mm, with a thickness of 50 mm, and the inclusions were cylindrical aggregates with a diameter of 20.85 mm. The specimen was loaded in uniaxial compression. Two inclusion axes configurations were considered: parallel and perpendicular to the line of loading. The finite element analysis was performed assuming a 2D behavior. Further, the aspect of the distance between inclusions was studied. It was shown that, in general, the perpendicular arrangement resulted in a significantly higher compression strength when compared to the parallel formation. For both the parallel and perpendicular configuration, the relationship between the increase in the axis distance and the compression strength followed a quadratic path. First an increase in strength was observed, followed by a reduction, as the axis distance evolved. Additionally, it was shown that the ITZ area in tension initiated the failure of all specimens.
EFFECTS OF BAMBOO ON FRACTURE CHARACTERISTICS OF BAMBOO REINFORCED CALCIUM CONCRETE MEMBER
Authors: Shimabukuro Atsushi , Yamato Mitsuaki
Published: March 2020

The calcium-based solidification material enables us to expect the reduction of environmental burdens because it is near-neutral. We defined the concrete using this material as Calcium (Ca) concrete, and we have performed some experiments to investigate the properties of this concrete. From these results of previous experiments, we think that Ca concrete will be effective material on strength as a new civil engineering material. However, it is difficult to use steel as reinforcement material in Ca concrete due to near-neutral. Therefore, the bamboo is used as reinforcement material in this paper. And, the effect of bamboo as reinforcement material in Ca concrete is examined by investigating the fracture properties of Ca concrete reinforced by bamboo from four-point bending test. In particular, this investigation pays attention to the effect of the number of reinforcing bamboo. As a result, it becomes clear that the bending strength of Ca concrete with reinforcing bamboo is stronger than the strength of Ca concrete without reinforcing bamboo.
EFFECT OF NATURAL SANDS ON THE TENSILE BEHAVIOR OF SHCC UNDER DIFFERENT STRAIN RATES
Authors: Khan M. Iqbal , Mourad Shehab , Fares Galal , Abbass Wasim
Published: March 2020

One of the key factors affecting the successful production of strain-hardening cement-based composites (SHCC) is the nature of fine quartz aggregates. The elevated cost of SHCC preparation is considered as a limiting parameter. The incorporation of natural fine aggregates of different particle sizes can be one of the most cost-effective methods to produce SHCC locally. Two different types of local natural sands abundantly available in the Arabian Peninsula were used in the preparation of SHCC. The effect of these sands on the tensile response of SHCC under the effect of different strain rates was investigated. Three strain rates of 7.7x10-5, 1.5x10-4 and 1.5x10-3 s-1 were applied during the assessment of the direct tensile properties of SHCC samples made of natural sands. The results have shown that the use of natural sands provides an effective strain capacity. Microstructural analysis of SHCC mixtures has revealed the existence of two reaction mechanisms during PVA pullout of SHCC mixture with natural sands under direct tensile tension. Therefore, the incorporation of natural sands was proven to carry potential properties to SHCC mixtures that reduce their cost and encourage their production in a broad scale.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CORROSION AND ELEMENT SEVERITY SCORE FOR REINFORCED CONCRETE BEAMS
Authors: O'Flaherty Fin , Browne Elena , Mangat Pal , Lambert Paul
Published: March 2020

Guidance for highway bridge and structure maintenance management in the UK is provided by the code of practice (CoP) 'Management of Highway Structures'. With regards to inspection of reinforced concrete beams in accordance with the code, the professional judgement of the bridge engineer is required to assess the extent and severity of deterioration with help from a library of different defects. The Extent of the defects is rated A – E whilst the Severity is scored 1 – 5, giving an Extent and Severity score for each element, known as the element condition score. However, the Code does not provide information on the corresponding levels of corrosion in the steel reinforcement in the damaged beam. The purpose of this paper is to relate the element severity scores for a range of damaged reinforced concrete beams to approximate levels of corrosion of the main steel, thereby giving the bridge inspector an understanding of the seriousness of corrosion for each of the five Severity scores.
PROPOSAL OF EVALUATION METHOD FOR RESIDUAL AXIAL FORCE OF CORRODED HIGH-STRENGTH BOLTS
Authors: Tai M. , Shimozato T. , Arizumi Y. , Yamashita S. , Yabuki T.
Published: March 2020

In this research an evaluation method for the residual axial force of corroded high-strength bolts was investigated. Corroded high-strength bolts cut from a steel bridge were used for the measurement of thickness reduction and residual axial force. For the residual axial force measurement, a strain-gauge method with a core extraction was applied. An FE analysis examined the effect of the corroded shape of high-strength bolts on the residual axial force. The results reveal that the effect of corroded shapes on the residual axial force can be considered by using the thickness reduction amount near the washer for nut and bolt head. A proposed evaluation method based on the summation of thickness reduction can estimate the residual axial force of corroded high-strength bolts approximately.
LOAD BEARING STRUCTURAL ASSEMBLY
Authors: Russell Bradford
Published: March 2020

This article and research is based on recent patents filed with the USPTO (US Patent Serial No. 13/969,529 and 14/450,425), and Professional experiences in the built environment for over thirty years. The intention of this invention is focused on absorbing and / or redirecting forces two dimensionally or three dimensionally in any mechanism that relies on moving and / or force resolving components (structural manipulation of forces) so more benefits of the mechanism can be achieved under a longer duration.
EFFECT OF THE FLUID ON THE IMPACT FORCE OF THE WET MISSILE
Authors: Thai Duc-Kien , Kim Seung-Eock
Published: March 2020

In this paper, the force-time histories of soft missiles, with and without filled water, impacting the target wall were investigated using finite element analysis. The force plate tests, with a dry missile (test FP8) and a wet missile (test FP16) carried out by Technical Research Centre of Finland (VTT), were used. The numerical analysis results were verified by comparing with those of experiments. A parametric analysis with different missile velocities was also performed to investigate the force-time history and impulse of the missile impact on target plate. Based on a comparison with the Riera approach, the coefficients were proposed to modify the Riera function. The analysis results show that, the Riera function accurately predicted the impact force time history in the case of the dry missile. However, in the case of the wet missile, the coefficients α from 1.24 to 1.45 are recommended to be added to the second term of the Riera function in the case in which the impact velocity is in the range of 70 m/s to 200 m/s.
DESIGN S-N CURVES FOR T-, K-, AND X-CONCRETE-FILLED STEEL TUBULAR JOINTS
Authors: Musa I. , Mashiri F. R. , Zhu X.
Published: March 2020

High stress concentration at the weld vicinity in welded steel tubular joints results in fatigue failure. Researchers have tried finding an effective method to reduce these stresses. Although concrete filling of the steel tubes has been used to reduce stresses at the joints in the recent two decades, the fatigue performance of concrete filled tubular joints is not yet fully understood. This paper summarizes research on the fatigue strength of concrete-filled steel tubular T-, K-, and X-joints. Based on available experimental results, the nominal stress and hot spot stress design S-N curves for concrete-filled steel tubular joints have been derived. The least squares method is used in the derivation of the design S-N curves according to the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) specifications.
SEISMIC BEHAVIOR OF FRAMES WITH UNEVEN LARGE SECTION BEAMS OF TRADITIONAL WOODEN STRUCTURE
Authors: Takiyama Noriko , Idate Naoto
Published: March 2020

We report the progress of our research on understanding the seismic performance of frames with uneven large section beams and clarify the influence of the height of beams and the shape of fitting type joints on the behavior of the frame. In this study, we conducted a cyclic loading test for four test frames with spans of one or two and investigated the seismic performance and failure behavior. The major findings for the two-span frames are summarized as follows. (a) They caused fatal damage more readily than the one-span frames. The column that was caught in the even beams broke before other damage occurred. (b) Because of the asymmetry of the frame or the shape of the column-beam joints, the shear forces had directional dependence.
On the year abroad experience and positive wellbeing
Authors: Potter Hilary
Published: March 2020

This chapter examines the impact of the Year Abroad (YA) on mental health and wellbeing, arguing that whilst we tend to be systemically and culturally inclined to focus on and mitigate negative impact, we overlook the benefits. Drawing on qualitative and quantitative data from students surveyed on placement in Germany and Austria, and on mental health research, this chapter highlights the positive impact of the YA, even where students are faced with challenging situations. It suggests a correlation between a range of factors including linguistic competence and otherness, facilitating a sense of wellbeing not attainable in a first language setting. These findings are indicative, suggesting that further, in-depth longitudinal research is warranted.
Minding the expectation gap – student expectations pre-study abroad in China
Authors: Peng Ying , Wright Clare
Published: March 2020

Study Abroad (SA) can be expected to promote personal growth, future employability, greater intercultural awareness, adaptability, and efficacy, alongside language improvement. However, students can encounter high thresholds to meeting their own expectations, and may struggle with personal and academic transition into and on return from SA. This study reports on the initial stage of a longitudinal survey-based study of the whole SA experience for a group of UK-based students of Chinese – presenting here students’ pre-departure expectations and goals. Participants had high positive expectations of linguistic gains, adaptability, and knowledge about life in China, but were less aware of broader personal gains in employability, while cultural gains for some suggested a focus on individualised ‘cultural consumption’. We discuss implications for support offered pre-SA to better shape student expectations of realistic benefits and probable challenges, particularly for less familiar SA contexts such as for anglophone students in China.
The assessment for the year abroad programme: how to incorporate language, culture, and personal development
Authors: Morimoto Kazuki
Published: March 2020

This chapter will discuss how a Year Abroad (YA) assessment can incorporate language progress, cultural understanding, and personal development by showcasing the Interim Self-Reflection Evaluation Report (ISER), which was introduced in 2017-2018 as a piece of assessment for the YA in Japan at the University of Leeds. At the end of their first semester, the students were required to write a reflective report on their progress and challenges related to their academic, linguistic, intercultural, and personal development, using both Japanese and English. Keyword analysis of the content revealed what aspects the students primarily focused on. Further qualitative analysis also shed light on their successful endeavours to enhance their confidence, on how they viewed their own weaknesses, and on changes in their self-perception.
The year abroad – a process of reflection
Authors: Crawford Ruth , Gutiérrez Almarza Gloria , McCormack Jo
Published: March 2020

The Year Abroad (YA) is one of the most valuable parts of our language degree programmes. Here we discuss some of the elements that constitute the assessment Nottingham Trent University students carry out to earn a YA diploma. More specifically we compare the two elements (blog and dossier) that we think contribute most to reflective practice, by analysing examples from students of French, German, and Spanish. Although at this point the analysis remains impressionistic, we compare which of these two elements helps students to reflect more deeply and meaningfully while achieving the YA objectives. The main findings indicate that both types of text help students to reflect on their experience and consequently to develop their Intercultural Communicative Competence (ICC). Notably, the use of the target language does not appear to determine the level of reflection while the intended audience plays an important part in the style and accessibility of students’ work.
A Changeling Becomes Titania: The Realm of the Fairies in Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre
Authors: Cortés Vieco Francisco José
Published: March 2020

Jane Eyre never-endingly mesmerizes readers and scholars alike thanks to its fairy-tale echoes, but Charlotte Brontë also wrote this novel as a tale of her own myth-making about two fairies: Jane and Edward Rochester, because only fairylands of fantasy and daydreaming might empower an unprotected woman in Victorian times. This article explores Jane Eyre’s life journey and life-writing as if she were a fairy. She begins as a changeling child who torments malevolent adults and consoles herself in fairy tales. When Jane becomes a woman, whose fairy wings of rebelliousness and freedom cannot be torn by social rules or by any mortal, she is eventually crowned by her fairy godmother – Charlotte Brontë – with the diadem of love and gender equality as Titania, a queen in her own right, who chooses to marry her Oberon: Rochester.
Interpregnancy interval and the risk for recurrence of placental mediated pregnancy complications
Authors: Gabbay-Benziv Rinat , Ashwal Eran , Hadar Eran , Aviram Amir , Yogev Yariv , Melamed Nir , Hiersch Liran
Published: March 2020

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of short or long interpregnancy interval (IPI) with placental mediated pregnancy complications after already complicated first delivery.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort analysis of all women with singleton pregnancies who delivered their first three consecutive deliveries in one university-affiliated medical center (1994–2013). Placental mediated complications included placental abruption, small for gestational age, preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, or preterm delivery. Following first complicated delivery, IPI was compared stratified by second delivery outcome. Following two complicated deliveries, IPI was compared stratified by third delivery outcome. IPI was evaluated as continuous or categorical variable (>18, 18–60, >60 months). Related samples Cochrans’ Q test and Mann-Whitney analysis were used as appropriate.

Results

Overall, 4310 women entered analysis. Of them, 18.3%, 10.5%, and 9.3% had complicated first, second, and third delivery, consecutively. Evaluated continuously, longer IPI, but not short IPI, was associated with higher rates of complicated second delivery. Stratified to categories, IPI had no effect on recurrent complications evaluated separately or as composite.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that long IPI may increase risk for placental mediated pregnancy complications. Further studies are needed to evaluate this effect.
Food habits of the Indian bush rat (Golunda ellioti Gray, 1837) in Pothwar region, Pakistan
Authors: Naz Ruqqya , Kayani Amjad Rashid , Nadeem Muhammad Sajid , Mushtaq Muhammad , Qayyum Mazhar
Published: March 2020

The Indian bush rat, Golunda ellioti, is indigenous to the Indo-Pak subcontinent. Food habits of this bush rat were investigated using its stomach and fecal contents. Trapping was conducted every month from November 2013 to February 2016. This over 28 months generated a total of 2520 trapping nights. Sample slides from 82 stomach and 10 fecal samples were compared with the reference slides. Field observations along with feeding the Indian bush rat in captivity revealed that it preferably fed on 27 species of grasses with Digitaria sanguinalis [frequency of occurrence (FO) = 13.5%] being the most abundant one followed by Pennisetum orientale (FO = 8.5%). However, the Berger-Parker index revealed that D. sanguinalis (d = 0.148) was followed by Triticum aestivum (d = 0.145). Along with that, they also consumed tillers and seeds of wheat, gram seeds and young leaves of mustard. Considering the climatic changes, its success in adapting to the arid regions and dependence on grasses for food and cover may favor this species in future.
The crystal structure of 4,4′-bipyridinium bis(3-carboxy-2-nitrobenzoate) tetrahydrate, C13H13N2O8
Authors: Chai Chun-Xia , Peng Peng , Cai Bin
Published: March 2020

C13H13N2O8, triclinic, P1̄ (no. 2), a = 7.8590(6) Å, b = 9.3108(8) Å, c = 11.0816(8) Å, α = 66.950(3)°, β = 71.558(3)°, γ = 77.203(4)°, V = 703.38(10) Å3, Z = 2, Rgt(F) = 0.0389, wRref(F2) = 0.1075, T = 149(2) K.
The evolution of proto-Brit. *-/lth/ in Welsh
Authors: Eska Joseph F.
Published: March 2020

This paper argues that the evolution of proto-Brittonic final *-/lth/ > -/lθ/ > -/ɬt/ in Welsh is the result of the metathesis of the feature [spread glottis] from the final coronal fricative to the lateral approximant with well known concomitant phonetic changes that devoiced and fricated the lateral approximant while occluding the coronal fricative.