bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social Recommendation with Interpersonal Influence
Authors: Huang Junming  , Cheng Xue-Qi  , Guo Jiafeng  , Shen Hua-Wei  , Yang Kun
Published: February 2025

Social recommendation, that an individual recommends an item to another, has gained popularity and success in web applications such as online sharing and shopping services. It is largely different from a traditional recommendation where an automatic system recommends an item to a user. In a social recommendation, the interpersonal influence plays a critical role but is usually ignored in traditional recommendation systems, which recommend items based on user-item utility. In this paper, we propose an approach to model the utility of a social recommendation through combining three factors, i.e. receiver interests, item qualities and interpersonal influences. In our approach, values of all factors can be learned from user behaviors. Experiments are conducted to compare our approach with three conventional methods in social recommendation prediction. Empirical results show the effectiveness of our approach, where an increase by 26% in prediction accuracy can be observed.
Nursing-task Recognition Using Accelerometers and RFID
Authors: Takebe Yoshihiro  , Kanai-Pak Masako  , Kuwahara Noriaki  , Maeda Jukai  , Hirata Miwa  , Kitajima Yasuko  , Gueta Lounell Bahoy  , Ota Jun
Published: February 2025

A nurse activity efficiency is controlled greatly by the order of activities, and the system for nurses to learn the ideal order of activities is expected. For the construction of this system, it is required to recognize nurse activities from the sensor data, to calculate the order of activities and to compare the activity order that is recognized with other nurses' or optimized activity order. In this paper, we used accelerometers and RFID tags to recognize these nursing activities. We verified the accuracy of activity recognition and determined the activities that could not be easily recognized with experience.
Research on Deformation Forecast of Deep Foundation Pit Based on Non-equidistant Monitoring Data
Authors: Yan Jing  , Zeng Yawu  , Gao Rui
Published: February 2025

This paper introduces a solution of unequal interval deformation prediction by using non-equidistant Grey Model (1,1) (GM(1,1)) which is an effective tool to study uncertain system and can establish a mathematical model based on a spot of data. Firstly, the Grey System Theory is introduced briefly and the modeling process of non-equidistant GM(1,1) is shown. Secondly, the idea of real-time forward simulation is emphasized, which can improve prediction accuracy greatly. Thirdly, an algorithm for unequal interval deformation prediction is studied and realized by MATLAB, and a data fitting problem is verified as well for algorithm's correctness. Fourthly, a comparative analysis between the predicted and actual data is conducted based on a practical engineering, the result shows that the unequal interval grey model is effective whose prediction result is close to the reality and the feedback monitoring information is very important for the accuracy of the prediction. Then, a rebuilding of grey background level based on Lagrange interpolation is carried out. A better accuracy of simulation is got. Finally, some useful suggestions on prediction accuracy enhancement and some problems need to be noticed are mentioned.
Integration of IT into Routine Geotechnical Design
Authors: Yoo Chungsik
Published: February 2025

The use of information technology (IT) in a variety of engineering fields is increasing in order to expedite routine engineering design and analysis procedures. In geotechnical engineering, various types of information technology, such as geographical information system (GIS), artificial intelligence (AI), and numerical simulation, are now being actively used to predict, visualize, and analyze physical parameters. In this paper, the recent development in integration of IT into geotechnical engineering fields are presented with emphasis on the use of GIS in tunnelling risk management. A combined technique that couples the artificial neural network (ANN) and the GIS is then presented. The proposed approach involves the development of ANN(s) using a calibrated finite element model(s) for use as a prediction tool and implementation of the developed ANN(s) into a GIS platform for visualization and analysis of spatial distribution of predicted results. A novel feature of the proposed approach is an ability to expedite a routine geotechnical design process that otherwise require significant time and effort in performing numerical analyses for different design scenarios. Two illustrative examples in which the developed approach was implemented are given; one for an urban tunnelling design project and the other for a soft ground improvement design project. It is shown that the proposed approach can be an efficient and robust decision making tool for routine geotechnical design works. This paper describes the concept and details of the proposed approach and its implementation to an urban tunnel and a soft ground improvement design projects.
Mesoscopic Test Study of the Interface between Geogrid Transverse Rib and Sand
Authors: Wang Jiaquan  , Zhou Jian  , Tang Xianyuan  , Huang Liuyun
Published: February 2025

A series of pullout tests are carried out in different vertical pressure by using pullout model test equipment. Using image visual tracing technique to track the interaction process of the interface of the geogrid transverse ribs and sand, and the rule of interface particles movement is further studied through quantitative analysis. The results show that: The standard sand/transverse ribs upper interface region is about 10 times the average particles size, lower interface region is about 6 times the average particle size, in which the particles take place displacement and rotation during pullout process. The transverse rib interface maximum shear strain field along the pullout direction and the upper and lower areas take place expansion, forming a shear strain concentration zone, and are basically consistent with the transverse ribs pullout displacement field. The upper interface thickness is larger than the lower interface thickness, and with the normal pressure to increase, the interface thickness increased slightly.
The Application of Modified Gaussian Model in Hyperspectral Image Analysis
Authors: Yang Caixia  , Han Yibo  , Han Pu
Published: February 2025

According to the feature of hyperspectral image spectral curve and the morphological characteristics of Gaussian curve, in this paper, a pixel(always mixed pixel) was chose as the analysis object and used the modified Gaussian model (MGM) with a number of improved Gaussian curve fitting of the real partial spectral curve, then compared the parameters(Center, FWHM, Amplitude) of each Gaussian curves to the parameters which comes from the standard spectral library of mineral samples, so that classified the species of the mineral and determined the ingredient. In this paper also made further research directions: using the modified Gaussian model to determine the proportion of different minerals in a pixel.
Research on Emergency Rescue Decision Support System of Geo-hazards under the Conditions of Extreme Snow and Ice Disasters
Authors: Wang Shimei  , Huang HaiFeng  , Wang Gang  , Zou Liang-Chao
Published: February 2025

The emergency rescue of geo-hazards under the conditions of extreme snow and ice disasters is a new challenge faced by government departments. The fast and effective emergency response to geo-hazards in the complicated meteorological environment demands the help of the IT means, in particular the decision support system. Based on the analysis of the characteristics of the emergency rescue of geo-hazards under the conditions of extreme snow and ice disasters, this paper proposes the design thought of the decision support system for emergency rescue of geo-hazards under the conditions of extreme snow and ice disasters. It analyzes the overall objective and functional requirements of the system, and designs the overall architecture, logical structure, integration mode and development environment of the system. Its final aim is to build a spatial decision support system based on a B/S (browser/server) mode and a WebGIS platform that offers the functions of allocating the information of geo-hazard points in the Web environment, performing the stability assessment, hazard assessment and risk decision-making. And the system will generate emergency rescue plans and schemes automatically that can assist leaders to decide and carry on the emergency rescue and rescue work.
Modelling the effects of dewatering on pile settlement by integrating finite element and load-transfer analyses
Authors: Omer J R
Published: February 2025

A Windows based tool is developed for integrating a finite element (FE) model for ground water lowering with a load-transfer method, for use in predicting negative skin friction and settlement of pile foundations influenced by well pumping. Computed results from a finite element analysis are automatically transferred to spreadsheet files, which are linked to a purpose-written program for pile load-transfer analysis. The program is specially interfaced to capture electronic site investigation data from in-situ tests, which may be supplemented by manually entered data from laboratory soil tests. In using the computer tool developed here, the FE results required for pile analysis are computed beforehand, using any standard programs such as PLAXIS™ The following FE outputs, computed in the immediate vicinity of the pile and at small intervals of coordinates in the 2-D ground model, are automatically read into the new tool for onward pile analysis: (i) active pore pressure, (ii) active ground water head, (iii) vertical effective stress and (iv) vertical displacements. Additional soil input data such as in-situ test records (standard penetration or cone penetration tests) are stored in electronic files and automatically accessed by the program. If required, laboratory soil test data can be manually entered, on a layer by layer basis, into the program. The program offers a variety of load-transfer relationships which the user can select to represent a given layer. The relationships can either be defined based on user-specified input parameters defining simple curves or internally calculated using the in-situ or laboratory soil test data inputted. To demonstrate the application and reliability of the computer tool, a case record has been analyzed where sump pumping was to be carried out underneath a deep basement which was situated close to an existing building supported on 15m long isolated piles. Piezometers were used to measure ground water levels around the building which was also monitored for settlement over 6 months. For steady state flow conditions, a FE results [(i)-(iv) above] were generated and used with site investigation borehole data in the computer tool to predict the negative skin resistance and settlement of the piles. The predicted and measured settlements were found to be reasonably consistent.
Numerical Simulation Analysis Applied to Excavation of Deep-foundation above the Highway Tunnel in Downtown
Authors: Xu Shu  , Li Zhi
Published: February 2025

The construction of downtown traversing tunnel is very difficult. In this paper MIDAS GTS is used to analyze the influence of the underlying tunnel when the top foundation pit is excavated. And the construction stage control indicators base on the theoretic calculation are proposed to provide the theoretical for the technical measures as block excavation.
Analysis of Safety Factors of Twin Tunnels with Small Spacing by Strength Reduction FEM
Authors: Wang Cheng  , Wang Yongfu  , Xiao Qiang
Published: February 2025

A safety factor of twin tunnels with small spacing has been greatly concerned. The safety factors of surrounding rock and lining are analyzed in this paper. The former is obtained by strength reduction FEM, and the latter is calculated according to the requirements in the tunnel supporting structure. The Cuntan Tunnel in Chongqing is used as an example calculated safety factors. The results well reflect stability variations and security reserve situations of surrounding rock and the lining during the construction, and can be used as a basis for stability evaluation.
Numerical Analysis of Geosynthetic Reinforced Soil above a Tunnel
Authors: Ghoreishi Tayyebi S.E.  , Babatabar M.R.  , Tahmasebi Poor A.
Published: February 2025

In this paper numerical experiments are conducted to investigate the effect of geosynthetic reinforced soil above a tunnel on stability of system. A series two dimensional finite element analyses under plane strain condition was performed to study stability of soil-geosynthetic-tunnel system. The effectiveness of geosynthetic reinforced soil above a tunnel is affected by many factors such as depth of single layer, tensile stiffness and number of reinforcement layers. In this paper, a systematic parametric study was conducted to study effect of these parameters on improving the stability of tunnel headings and reducing ground movements in sand. Based on the results of the study, the use of this system reduces the settlements at the tunnel heading and ground surface. It can be concluded that when a single layer of reinforcement is used, there is an optimum depth at which settlements are maximum. Settlements reduce with increase in axial rigidity (E.A) of reinforcement and stability of the tunnel face is improved too. Also settlements reduce with increase in number of reinforcement layers but there is an optimum value for number of reinforcement which increase more than this certain value has not significant effect on reduction of settlements.
Finite Element Analysis of the Seismic Response of Large-space Semi-underground Structure in Soft Soil
Authors: Liu Liyu  , Chen Zhiyi  , Yuan Yong
Published: February 2025

On account of it's large span, complex structural styles and soft soil surrounding, large-space semi-underground structures in soft soil might suffer seismic damage more seriously. However, comparing with tunnels and subway stations, semi-underground large space structures have been ignored for a long time. This paper takes Shanghai Culture Square as an example and has analyzed the seismic response of this type of structure by time-history method. The following aspects have been discussed: 1.Potential damage locations during an earthquake. 2. Deform situation of the structure caused by an earthquake. 3. Acceleration of the structure and the surrounding soil.
Study on simulation model of ground subsidence based on time-space evolution and its applications
Authors: Liu Xiaobo  , Sun Huoran  , Wang Yongjia
Published: February 2025

The mechanism and simulation method of rock ore granular flow is an important research direction in mining theoretical research. Based on the physical experiment and the Kelvin rheological property of the ore rock, the mechanical constitutive equations of ground subsidence were established and reported in this paper. This model can not only solve the time-space problems involving caving loose body flow but also give the method of determining the time factor α and probability distribution of ground subsidence. Finally, this system was successfully used in the simulation experiment of ground subsidence caused by goaf in a certain iron ore mine, and some important results were obtained which contributes to future further research and development in this area.
Integrating Dialectical and Accrual Modes of Argumentation
Authors: Modgil Sanjay  , Bench-Capon Trevor
Published: February 2025

This paper argues that accrual should be modelled in terms of reasoning about the application of preferences to sets of arguments, and shows how such reasoning can be formalised within metalevel argumentation frameworks. These frameworks adopt the same machinery and level of abstraction as Dung's argumentation framework. We thus provide a dialectical argumentation semantics that integrates accrual, and illustrate our approach by instantiating our framework with the arguments and attacks defined by an object level formalism that accommodates reasoning about priorities over sets of rules.
Lexical Semantics and Expert Legal Knowledge towards the Identification of Legal Case Factors
Authors: Wyner Adam  , Peters Wim
Published: February 2025

Legal case factors are textually represented facts which are represented in reported legal case decisions. Precedent decisions contribute to the decision of a case under consideration. As textually represented facts, factors linguistically encode semantic properties and relationships among the entities which can be leveraged to identify and extract the legal case factors from decisions. We integrate legal and linguistic resources in a text analysis tool with which we annotate textual passages. Using annotations tailored to legal case factors, the legal researcher can rapidly zero in on textual spans which represent specific combinations of factors, participants, and semantic properties which bear on who played what role with respect to a factor. The research reports progress on the development of a tool.
Random Spikes to Enhance Learning in Spiking Neural Networks
Authors: Zuters Janis
Published: February 2025

In spiking neural networks (SNNs), unlike traditional artificial neural networks, signals are propagated via a ‘pulse code’ instead of a ‘rate code’. This results in incorporating the time dimension into the network and thus theoretically ensures a higher computational power. The different principle of operation makes learning in SNNs complicated. In this paper, two ideas have been proposed to assure spiking activity propagation – random spikes and parallel input layers. The proposed ideas have been illustrated with experimental results.
A Neural-based Algorithm for Landslide Detection at Stromboli Volcano: Preliminary Results
Authors: Esposito Antonietta M.  , Giudicepietro Flora  , D'Auria Luca  , Peluso Rosario  , Martini Marcello
Published: February 2025

This study presents a neural-based algorithm for the automatic detection of landslides on Stromboli volcano (Italy). It has been shown that landslides are an important short-term precursor of effusive eruptions of Stromboli. In particular, an increase in the occurrence rate of landslides was observed a few hours before the beginning of the February 2007 effusive eruption. Automating the process of detection of these signals can help analysts and represents a useful tool for the monitoring of the stability of the Sciara del Fuoco flank of Stromboli volcano. A multi-layer perceptron neural network is here applied to continuously discriminate landslides from other signals recorded at Stromboli (e.g., explosion quakes, tremor signals), and its output is used by an automatic system for the detection task. To correctly represent the seismic data, coefficients are extracted from both the frequency domain, using the linear predictive coding technique, and the time domain, using temporal waveform parameterization. The network training and testing was carried out using a dataset of 537 signals, from 267 landslides and 270 records that included explosion quakes and tremor signals. The classification results were 99.5% predictive for the best net performance, and 98.7% when the performance was averaged over different net configurations. Thus, this detection system was effective when tested on the 2007 effusive eruption period. However, continuing investigations into different time intervals are needed, to further define and optimize the algorithm.
Sum frequency generation in chiral carbon nanotubes
Authors: De Dominicis L.
Published: February 2025

The process of Sum Frequency Generation (SFG) in chiral Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs), with the exciting laser beams propagating along the CNT symmetry axis, is here investigated. First the general form of the first hyperpolarizability third rank tensor β for chiral CNTs is determined with group projector technique method applied to the Lnp22 line group describing their symmetry. For this purpose, the group natural factorization has been adopted and the associated irreducible representations, parameterized in terms of helical quantum numbers, then used to construct the group projector operator in the relevant vector space. The method demonstrates that second harmonic generation is symmetry forbidden in the collinear geometry while, conversely, SFG is symmetry allowed. Subsequently, the SFG far-field radiation pattern has been modelled with a calculation scheme derived from antenna's theory and already used for simulation of Rayleigh scattering from a CNT. The method has been overhauled for describing the here considered nonlinear optical interaction. The study of the role played by two induced counter-propagating current density retarded waves in shaping the radiation pattern is addressed and simulations are reported in the limit regimes of strong and weak attenuation.
Stimulated thermal scattering induced by two-photon absorption and experimental observation of genuine stimulated brillouin scattering in the near-ultraviolet region
Authors: Karpov V.B.  , Korobkin V.V.
Published: February 2025

Some of the experimental measurements of the frequency shift and phase-conjugation fidelity gained from previous studies of stimulated scattering (SS) of nanosecond (5 ÷ 10 ns) near-ultraviolet (uv) (λ = 193 ÷ 351 nm) laser pulses in liquids (hexane, heptane, and others) are found to disagree with the theory of SS, which takes into account only the linear (single-photon) light absorption. To resolve the inconsistency, SS of XeCl excimer laser radiation (λ = 308 nm) with the duration of 8 ns in liquid hexane is investigated experimentally. A theoretical analysis of the results obtained revealed three nonlinear optical phenomena induced by the heating due to two-photon absorption: stimulated thermal scattering (two-photon STS-2), phase mismatch for stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS), and phase self-modulation. The experimental SS spectrum contains two additional lines – a two-photon STS-2 line and a genuine SBS line in the near-uv region.
Exciting field phase effect on the entanglement death and birth phenomena for nonlinear coupler system
Authors: Kowalewska-Kudłaszyk A.  , Leoński W.
Published: February 2025

We consider time-evolution of the disentanglement process of once generated entangled qubit pair as a result of the phase variation of the pumping field. As a source of maximally entangled states we use the nonlinear coupler (two oscillators with Kerr-like nonlinearities) with nonlinear internal interactions. The coupler prepared in a maximally entangled state interacts afterwards with external reservoir of thermal character and pumping field as well. We show that the fact of the coupling with additional state (which can create additional entanglement with one of the 2-qubit system's previously entangled states) is an origin of interesting entanglement decay behaviour. We can observe shortening of both: entanglement death-time and entanglement birth caused by changing the phase of an external driving field.
Optically induced static magnetization due to molecular reorientational processes in dc electric field
Authors: Woźniak S.
Published: February 2025

The molecular theory of optically induced static magnetization is extended to systems acted on with a dc electric field. The two effects, the invers Faraday effect and invers magnetochiral birefringence, are analysed for their dependence on an electric field perpendicular or parallel to the propagation direction of the incident light beam. The mechanisms responsible for the effects are described in terms of linear and nonlinear multipole polarizability tensors as well as molecular reorientation functions defined by the generalized Langevin-Kielich functions. The effects at electric saturation are a source of information concerning the tensor components of electric dipole, magnetic dipole and electric quadrupole polarizability.
Exploring NLO response of 9,10-donor-acceptor substituted Bichromophoric Anthracene Derivatives
Authors: Misra Ramprasad  , Sharma Rahul  , Bhattacharyya S.P.
Published: February 2025

Ab-initio finite field SCF calculations with split valence double zeta basis set indicate that 9, 10- donor-acceptor substituted anthracene derivatives have large quadratic hyperpolarizabilities for suitable combinations of donor and acceptor moieties. A difference in the first hyperpolarizabilities (βtotal) of isomeric organic chromophores containing the same donor and acceptor groups indicate the possible role of intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) in shaping the NLO response in these π-conjugated molecular chromophores. A correlation is sought to be established among calculated (βtotal) on one hand and the donor strength, the strength of the acceptor, donor-acceptor interaction and the donor-acceptor separation, on the other by using Genetic Algorithm (GA) to search through the relevant parameter space. It appears that (βtotal) of a molecule is dominantly determined by additive contributions from the donors and the acceptors. The results might be helpful in designing new NLO materials using the bichromophoric anthracene derivatives.
The effect of anchor post-tensioning on the behaviour of a double anchored diaphragm wall embedded in clay
Authors: Elhakim Amr  , Tahsin Abdelwahab
Published: February 2025

A proper lateral support system is an important part of any deep excavation to lower the risk of damaging any adjacent structures, utilities or roads. For deeper excavations, the use of either strutted or anchored walls becomes necessary to decrease the amount of wall movement. The use of post-tensioned anchors further limits the amount of ground movement for both temporary and permanent structures. This paper investigates the effects of varying the post-tensioning ratio on the behavior of a double anchored diaphragm wall retaining clay of different consistencies (medium stiff, stiff and very stiff). A parametric study on the behavior of a 10-m deep excavation with two levels of anchors is considered. The analyses are conducted using the two-dimensional finite element program PLAXIS Version 8.2. The study examines the variation of wall horizontal displacement, and bending moment and ground surface movement to provide guidance for different values of the post tensioning ratio.
Geotechnical Innovation in Shaft Sinking in the Zambian Copper Belt
Authors: Howell G.C.
Published: February 2025

Substantial capacity enhancement of mines in the Copper Belt of Zambia has required that geotechnical expertise and innovative solutions be applied while sinking new shafts from surface through sub soil (saprolitic) and incompetent rock to a considerable depth. One shaft is now in operation and boasts the tallest steel headgear in the south hemisphere.
Quantitative Analysis to Verify the Theory of Soil Particle Agglomeration and Influence on Strength and Deformation Resistance of Geomaterials
Authors: Wekesa Sirmoi  , Mukabi John  , Sidai Vincent  , Kotheki Sylvester  , Okado Joram  , Ogallo Julius  , Amoyo George  , Ngigi Leonard
Published: February 2025

Soil particle agglomeration is one of the most important characteristics required in geomaterials for their application in the construction of geo-structures.
Improvement of Unbound Aggregates in Khartoum State
Authors: Omer O.G.  , Elsharief A.M.  , Mohamed A.M.
Published: February 2025

Due to the scarcity of well graded aggregate base course material within the vicinity of Khartoum state natural aggregates [gravel] of lower quality are commonly used as base material for economic purposes. However from local practice pavements with natural base materials failed to show satisfactory performance under heavy traffic. This paper presents the outcome of an intensive study aimed at stabilization of natural aggregates by various agents such as cement, coarse sand, stone dust and crushed stone. Cement was found to be the best in terms of improvement of the strength of the natural aggregates. Small quantities of cement (less than 3%) gave excellent results. The other stabilizers gave good and acceptable results. The paper discusses different technical and economic aspects relating to the use of each stabilizer.
Applying the Dynamic Cone Penetrometer (DCP) Design Method to Low Volume Roads
Authors: Paige-Green Philip
Published: February 2025

The Dynamic Cone Penetrometer (DCP) is a simple, cheap and effective apparatus for assessing the bearing capacity of in situ materials for the design of new roads or the upgrading of unsealed or existing sealed roads. Although a number of methods have been described for the use of the DCP for the design of low volume roads, no comprehensive method has been published. This paper summarizes the investigation, analysis and design techniques for application of this very useful and cost-effective design method taking into account traffic and environmental conditions. Use of the method is illustrated by actual design examples.
Estimating the Heave of Clays
Authors: Sparks A.D.W.
Published: February 2025

Atterberg Limit values can be used to predict the heave of clays due to unloading, or due to the wetting of a clay. A comparison is made between a new formula for swell and the van der Merwe method.
Pathology of foundation of Ghezala dam, a Tunisian case history
Authors: Bouassida Mounir  , Karoui H.  , Belaid Moncef
Published: February 2025

Ghezala Earth Dam was built in the North West area of Tunisia, located west of Mateur City. First full filling of reservoir, of storage capacity close to hundred thousand of cubic meters, started in 1985 and lasted two years. The foundation of dam is essentially composed of a consistent clayey marl layer. At lower level of the dike's body a pipe, made up of reinforced concrete, has been designed for water evacuation from upstream side to downstream side. The pipe structure is composed of eleven sections of 15 m length each. During dam exploration, over twenty six years, a monitoring system permitted, in particular, the measurement of consolidation settlement which occurred in the soil foundation. This follow up made possible the observation of cracks which mainly occurred in central portion of the pipe of evacuation as result of differential settlements. In this context, a 2D numerical simulation of the dam foundation was performed by using the Mohr Coulomb behavior for the dam's material and the soil foundation. Numerical predictions of the evolution of consolidation settlement were compared to recorded ones. A good agreement between predictions and in situ records confirmed the effectiveness of adopted modeling for the studied case history.
Correlation Studies between SPT and Pressuremeter Tests
Authors: Kenmogne Emmanuel  , Martin Jean Remy
Published: February 2025

This article presents correlation results between SPT, N resistance and pressuremeter parameters pl and E. The presentation is on 238 data in a sedimentary basin, selected from a study of about 600 available data. These data are from three different sites of the DOUALA sedimentary. The sites are constituted of clean sand, gravely clay with transitions of sandy gravel or clayey sand.
The African Regional Conferences as an Indicator of Research Trends in South Africa
Authors: Paige-Green Philip
Published: February 2025

The 2011 African Regional Conference on Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering is the 15th in the series of 4 yearly conferences. The majority of the early conferences were held in sub-Saharan Africa with significant contributions from South African researchers and practitioners. Recently, more of the conferences have been held in northern Africa with smaller South African participation. An analysis of the origin and type of papers in terms of Academic, Research, practitioner and international over the past 13 conferences has been carried out and shows interesting trends of research in relation to the available research funding in South Africa. It is clear that there is a declining trend in fundamental and basic geotechnical research in South Africa. Recommendations to overcome this problem are suggested.
Is there a future for GCLs in Waste Barrier Systems?
Authors: Legg Peter  , McLennan Molly
Published: February 2025

Geosynthetic clay liners (GCLs) are commonly used in geocomposite waste barrier systems as replacement for compacted clay liners. In recent years a number of problems associated with GCLs have been identified including panel shrinkage, desiccation cracking, chemical incompatibility, cation exchange and lack of hydration in geomembrane/GCL composite liner systems. The most important factor affecting the performance of a GCL is cation exchange in the bentonite. Leachate compatibility testing of the GCL is therefore necessary, initially by swell index testing, followed by hydraulic conductivity testing if the swell index test indicates promising results. The results of leachate GCL compatibility testing performed for four waste disposal facilities are presented and their influence on the respective barrier designs. It is concluded that there is a future for the use of GCLs in waste barrier systems provided that the compatibility of the GCL is confirmed through testing
Modeling of Textual Requirements in a Gellish Universal Database
Authors: van Renssen Andries
Published: February 2025

Ontologies can be practically applied in industry and governments to solve the current problem of lack of data integration including also the current inability for computers to interpret textual requirements as are present in standards and regulations. This can be realized through the definition and implementation of a formal ontological language that provides the concept definition models (dictionary-taxonomy) and language structure, and in which knowledge, requirements as well as product and process information can be expressed. This paper describes such a formal ontological language, called Gellish (a further development of ISO 10303-221 and ISO 15926), and its implementation in a universal database and message structure and it describes how that language is extended with a capability for the modeling of textual requirements. This enables usage of such requirements models to guide the design of facilities as well as for computer aided verification of designs and deliverables.
Applying Community Detection Algorithms on Ontologies for Identifying Concept Groups
Authors: Coskun Gökhan  , Rothe Mario  , Teymourian Kia  , Paschke Adrian
Published: February 2025

Reusing existing Semantic Web ontologies is necessary to avoid heterogeneity as well as redundant modeling efforts, because ontology engineering is a time-consuming and cost-intensive task. In order to decide whether a candidate ontology comprises the right concepts, an analysis process is necessary to understand the conceptual model of the ontology. Driven by the idea that concept grouping simplifies understanding the content of an ontology we investigate the applicability of community algorithms from the field of Social Network Analysis on the graph structure of RDF/XML based OWL documents to identify concept groups. In this paper, we present our experiments with different community algorithms on popular ontologies and compare our results with manually created concept groups.
Behaviour of stabilized soft clay
Authors: Mataic I.  , Vepsäläinen P.  , Lojander M.  , Korhonen O.
Published: February 2025

The paper presents analysis of stabilized soft clay stress-strain behaviour based on drained triaxial test results performed on stabilized and reconstituted soft clay. Main parameters concerning sample preparation and affecting efficiency of stabilization are addressed. Throughout the paper stabilized clay behaviour is compared to that of normally and overconsolidated soil. It has been done so in order to determine characteristic phenomena of stabilized clay behaviour with the main emphasis on effects of structure on strain hardening, strain softening, strength parameters and volume change behaviour.
Use of Site Won Chalk for the construction of steep Geogrid Reinforced Soil Embankments in the South of England, UK
Authors: Doulala-Rigby C.  , Dixon J.
Published: February 2025

Chalk is a porous rock which can exist in highly variable states. When excavated and recompacted, however, its engineering properties and behavior can range from those of weak rock to those of soil, depending on the proportion of ‘putty chalk’ formed as a result of breakdown of the natural material. In many chalk-rich areas of southern England, site won chalk has been successfully used for years as the structural fill in both unreinforced and reinforced soil earthwork structures. This paper presents a summary of 3 reinforced soil structures with Tensar geogrids built with site won chalk, including railway embankments for High Speed 1 (HS1) in the South of England.
Results of geotechnical monitoring for the erection and operation of the tailing dam at the diamond deposit named after M.V. Lomonosov
Authors: Nevzorov A.  , Koptyev V.  , Korshunov A.
Published: February 2025

The article presents the results of numerical analysis of the stress-strain state of the tailing dam at the diamond deposit named after M.V. Lomonosov (Russia, Arkhangelsk region) in all phases of its erection and operation based on the actual properties of the body and the dam's foundation soils, obtained in the process of implementation of geotechnical monitoring. The results of finite-element analysis of seepage through the dam according to different levels of surface water in the storage pond are obtained. Comparison of the calculated level of the depression curve with actual one is represented. The safety factors of tailing dam in all stages of erection and operation are calculated.
Determination of the stress strain state of soil base for the structures at static and dynamic loads
Authors: Areshkovych O.  , Boyko I.  , Sakharov V.
Published: February 2025

The numerical simulation methods are widely used for the solution of geotechnical problems. However, it is necessary to use reliable soil parameters in order to obtain effective results. In nonlinear problems these parameters might differ from traditional values, for example, deformation modulus should be increased. It is shown that in order to determine horizontal load on a structure one needs to determine the internal friction angle in the stripe of deformation localization or in the zone of potential sliding surface (both of which correspond to the friction of soil particles during sliding or rotation). During seismic calculations the interaction between elements of the “base – foundation – overhead structures” system should be considered. Disregard to the base flexibility or the inertial mass forces of soil can lead to the distortion of the dynamic influence. The designed accelerograms built for construction site should be used as seismic loads. It is shown that the analysis of structures which include anti-seismic arrangements or seismic isolation is limited when the synthetic accelerograms of the normative documents are used exclusively. The mechanism of landslide-prone territory collapse is discovered, which gives an opportunity to provide apropos engineering safety measures and to ensure their efficient application. The development of landslide processes on the coast caused by the speed of abrasion, changes of sediment volume affected by sea currents and erosion phenomena on the slope is shown. The intensification of weak soil deformation as a result of technological factors is also influenced to these processes.
Le cas du glissement de Boulimat
Authors: Bendadouche H.  , Lazizi S.
Published: February 2025

Novembre 2001, pour construire un hôtel à la station balnéaire de Boulimat, située non loin de la plage; On a entamé un léger terrassement au niveau du pied du talus. Avant la fin de ces travaux d'excavation, un important glissement s'est déclenché, menaçant ainsi la route nationale (RN°24) menant à Tizi-ouzou. Le terrain naturel a une pente assez prononcée avec un sol en place constitué d'éboulis de pente et de schistes très sensibles à l'eau. L'absence de la butée de pied et les premières pluies ont eu raison de l'équilibre précaire qui régnait dans le massif.
Shallow instabilities in weathered slopes. Limit equilibrium analysis
Authors: Da Costa A.  , Sagaseta C.  , Cañizal J.  , Castro J.
Published: February 2025

Shallow instabilities can develop in cut slopes as a result of progressive weathering from the slope face. This creates a layer, a few meters thick, with reduce strength with respect to the parent hard material. This kind of instabilities is often corrected by applying a pressure on the slope face by means of a mesh nailed to the surface. In this paper, the behaviour of the solution is analyzed using a previously proposed limit equilibrium method. This approach compares the solution for an infinite slope with the consideration of a finite height. Analysis for different slope heights and angles is also presented.
Slope stability analysis of volcanosediments undercut by cellars with FEM analyses
Authors: Vámos M.  , Kozák M.  , Léber T.  , Görög P.  , Török Á.
Published: February 2025

Large urban areas are composed of volcanosediments in Northern Hungary. The study area of the Avas Hill being the southern part of the Tardona-hill is located in the city of Miskolc with a maximum height of 211m. Steep slopes (25-65°) of the Avas Hill extending over 0.75 km2are densely built-in with small houses and worship places as well as more than 500 cellars. The less utilized road network, however, is in poor conditions. The extensive network of cellars and the heterogeneity of geological formations increase geological risks and induce landslides and surface instabilities on the steep slopes. In this present study one aspect of a 3-level instability analysis is discussed regarding the geological layers of Avas-North with the damages and the triggering mechanisms.
Landslide risk and climate change – economic assessment of consequences in the Göta river valley
Authors: Andersson-Sköld Y.  , Falemo S.  , Suer P.  , Grahn T.
Published: February 2025

According to climate change scenarios, Swedish summers will be drier, but in large parts of Sweden there will also be increased annual precipitation, more intensive precipitation and periods with increased water flows. In many areas the risk for landslides is expected to increase. In response to this the SGI, on commission of the Environmental ministry, has started a risk analysis for the Göta river valley. The results of the analysis will be used in the surveillance of the safety along the Göta river valley.
Hydraulic heave considering the geometry of excavations
Authors: Aulbach B.  , Ziegler M.
Published: February 2025

One characteristic of deep and narrow excavations is that the necessary embedded length of the retaining walls disproportionately rises compared to wide excavations considering the safety against hydraulic heave. Nevertheless often simplified calculation methods are used, which do not take into account the geometry of the excavation and thus can lead to an unsafe design. For that reason extensive investigations regarding the safety against hydraulic heave for various geometrical situations and different thickness of the aquifer have been carried out at the Chair of Geotechnical Engineering at RWTH Aachen University. These investigations are based on the analysis of flow nets obtained by numerical simulations. By the analysis of numerous calculations dimensionless design charts have been generated which enable to determine the necessary embedded length for the safety against hydraulic heave in homogeneous and isotropic soils quite simply. Therewith the extensive iterative determination of the necessary embedded length, which seems to be one of the principal reasons for the common use of simplified calculation methods, is unnecessary. By determining the embedded length via these design charts the geometric conditions are incorporated.
Design and construction of a secant pile wall in Glasgow
Authors: Brouwer J.W.R.  , van Leeuwen R.E.  , Inglis E.K.
Published: February 2025

The White Cart Water is a small river which runs through Glasgow. Heavy rainfall has caused numerous floods in the past. Work Section 16 is a 200 m long stretch in the southern part of Glasgow. For this section, a secant pile wall with an in-situ reinforced concrete wall on top has been proposed to form the flood defence wall. High differential water loads without anchoring possibilities, an existing wall which had to be maintained and the presence of tenement buildings at a short distance from the wall were part of the engineering challenges. Furthermore, the piled wall had to be constructed in difficult soil conditions consisting of overconsolidated clays underlain by sandstone and siltstone. A large soil investigation program was performed to obtain the required soil and rock parameters. For the latter parameter the methods as proposed by Hoek-Brown and Bieniawski were used. Construction of the secant pile wall was executed without problems and distress to the tenement buildings and existing wall.
Laboratory and field investigation in Porto Romano Durres
Authors: Bozo L.  , Allkja S.  , Harizaj L.
Published: February 2025

In the west part of Albania, near the Adriatic Sea there is a large area of very problematic soils as organic cohesive soils and fine sands under the ground water table. These soils have high porosity and are under consolidated. This region is characterized by a big development of motor-ways, industries, costal constructions and tourism.
Un nouvel essai d'émiettage pour mieux caractériser l'effet de l'eau sur les sols
Authors: Chevalier C.  , Haghighi I.  , Martin T.  , Reiffsteck P.
Published: February 2025

De récentes catastrophes survenues en France montrent la grande vulnérabilité des remblais et digues face à l'érosion interne et à la surverse. Dans le but de diagnostiquer efficacement la sensibilité des sols aux processus érosifs, des essais répétables sur de petits échantillons sont indispensables pour étudier un grand nombre de configurations (texture de sols et nature de fluides). Le «Crumb Test »ou essai d'émiettage tel que normalisé par l'ASTM, est un essai simple et rapide qui peut être utilisé à la fois en laboratoire et sur le terrain. Il est facilement réalisable mais avec une capacité limitée en raison d'interprétations basées sur des observations visuelles.
Deep excavation and retaining walls in weak rock for building pit tunnel A2 in Maastricht, geotechnical aspects
Authors: Salazar J.R.  , van Dalen J.H.  , Boone D.  , Schouten P.
Published: February 2025

To design and construct building pits in very weak calcareous rock formations one has to cope with major uncertainties regarding the mechanical properties of weak rock. This is certainly the case for the tunnel project A2 in Maastricht, which is to be built with a cut and cover method in the calcarenite formations of Maastricht.
Settlements induced by tunneling in clay shales
Authors: Croce P.  , Russo G.  , Spacagna R.L.
Published: February 2025

The paper reports on the case histories of two highway tunnels which were recently constructed in the outskirts of Florence. The subsoil is made by a complex geologic formation of highly tectonized clay shales, with scattered calcareous layers. Both tunnels have a multi-centered cross section, about 16 m wide and 14 m high. The soil cover is variable, reaching a maximum value of about 60 m. Construction was achieved supporting the tunnel contour by steel micropiles and the tunnel face by means of fibreglass tubes. Monitoring instruments were installed both from the ground surface and inside the tunnels. Settlements recorded during tunneling by means of topographical measurements reached the maximum value of about 12 cm. It was also observed that settlements induced by tunneling have a discontinuous trend related to the construction sequence, which proceeds by subsequent spans of soil reinforcement and excavation. However the overall shape of the subsidence area can still be interpolated by Gaussian distribution curves as it is usually done for TBM tunneling in soft soil.