bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Refurbishment of the masonry arch railway bridge Merxem Street
Authors: Outier Amelie , De Pauw Bart , Van Bogaert Philippe , De Backer Hans
Published: December 2014

Because of the widening of the Albert Canal, one of the most important canals in Belgium, a number of railway bridges have to be replaced by longer spans on new embankments. Since the widening also necessitated a larger free height for ship traffic under these bridges, the overall length profile of this railway line had to be changed. This resulted in the replacement of two other railway bridges, the Merxem Street Bridge and the Iron lane Bridges, in accordance with the new length profile. The bridge closest to the canal, the Merxem Street Bridge, is a classic masonry arch bridge. Ten years ago, a new tubular arch bridge was built next to it for the high speed railway line from Antwerp to the Netherlands. Due to the influence of time and the increasing traffic, and especially ballast, loads and volumes on the bridge since the early 1900s, the existing masonry bridge needs to be renovated and strengthened. Strengthening was chosen over the construction of a new bridge because of the historical value of the existing masonry arch and since the overall structural state of the bridge was quite good. A new concrete deck was installed on top of the masonry arch ensuring that the higher live as well as dead loads will be spread over a considerable part of the arch length. This new deck was a combination of precast concrete elements with on-site concrete construction. The paper will focus on this combined concrete design and its realisation. Ultimate load carrying capacity of both existing and strengthened situation was verified using rigid block analysis. Critical failure modes of both structure and backfill are checked and the strengthening ensures that the most precarious modes are avoided because of the additional stiffness and load dispersion.
FRP lift bridge over the Oud Rijn: engineering slenderness
Authors: Tromp Liesbeth , Klamer Ernst
Published: December 2014

In a design contest, RHDHV architect Joris Smits entered a challenging asymmetric design for a lift bridge for the Oude Rijn, Katwijk, the Netherlands. Using the lightweight stiffness of Fiber Reinforced Polymers (FRP) for the deck structure, he created an extremely thin structure, for its beauty and to reduce the number of openings of the bridge by increasing the height of the vertical clearance. The client was thrilled by the design but hesitant to believe the concept was feasible: such complex shape and slenderness. Royal HaskoningDHV was asked to further develop the design and demonstrate the technical and economic feasibility of the design. Could such long slender deck really be achieved? How would it respond to its single lifting arm? This paper discusses the challenges of the asymmetric design of the bridge and explains the FRP engineering solution. Dutch Design Recommendation CUR96 [1] has been used for the structural design.
Damage Detection of RC Columns in Shaking Table Tests by Singularity Analysis of Their Acceleration Responses
Authors: Mizutani Tsukasa , Hida Takahiro , Fujino Yozo
Published: December 2014

Quick state judgement of important infrastructures such as bridges is required especially after the earthquake. The application of accelerometers which are already installed on many infrastructures can realize this judgement, but the method to detect the damage of structures from only the acceleration information has not been established yet. In this study, by applying singularity analysis based on wavelet transform to the acceleration data, we tried to detect the damage of structures. As a result of applying wavelet transform to the acceleration data measured on RC columns which had damage by shaking table test, we could detect singular points of the acceleration waveform which occurs at points where the signal itself or its derivative changes discontinuously. By comparing the singular points with the strain data of rebar and video records, it was shown that most of the singularities occurred when RC columns had damages such as cracks and rebar yielding.
Model based design of experiments and monitoring systems for parameter identification of structures
Authors: Olney Peter , Morgenthal Guido , Lahmer Tom
Published: December 2014

 It is becoming increasingly necessary to give statements about health or residual capacity of existing structures. With the advent of better technology, it is now also possible to think about structural monitoring not only during the useful life and operation of structures, but also during the design phase. In both situations, it is necessary to decide what and where to measure in order to get the most useful results for an acceptable cost. The Fisher Information Matrix, FIM, and the associated optimality criteria from classical optimal experimental design theory gives a measure for optimal setups. The goal here is to select, in the context of parameter identification, an appropriate experimental design, and then quantify confidence of conclusions drawn from the updated, yet inevitably flawed, numerical models. Ultimately, this paper seeks to answer a fundamental question posed to all engineers: what does this mean for my structure and for those who may use it.
A Damage Detection Technique by Distributed Strain Measurements using Long-gage Fibre Bragg Grating Sensors
Authors: Yang Kejian , Yonao Ryo , Yamamoto Kazumi
Published: December 2014

In this paper, a damage detection technique for flexural structure using strain measurements from long-gage fibre Bragg grating (FBG) sensors for structural health monitoring (SHM) was developed. An experimental investigation of flexural beams based on distributed long-gage fibre optic sensors was carried out. A method of damage detection for flexural structure from distributed dynamic strain measurements was proposed and verified. Furthermore, a parameter study of the damage detection index proposed by author by means of analysis of experimental data was performed and the possible range for practical utility of the damage detection method was confirmed here. The above damage detection technique could be applied to the health monitoring of bridge and other flexural structures.
Peeling/Flacking Prediction Model
Authors: Hayashi Rentaro , Obama Kengo , Kaito Kiyoyuki
Published: December 2014

 Occurrence of peeling/flacking (P/F) of concrete is a typical deterioration phenomenon in a concrete structure. From the point of view of structural safety and third party damage, it is necessary to evaluate the risk of P/F accurately and to cope with P/F. In this study, authors propose the methodology to predict on P/F of concrete in consideration of uncertainty. Concretely, a Weibull hazard model is formulated to express a corrosion of reinforcement with progress of time and an increase of the number of P/F, and is extended to a spatial Weibull hazard model by considering a spatial chain. By doing so, the proposed model expresses a partial increase of the number of P/F caused by a corrosion of reinforcement. Finally, the appropriateness of the proposed method is discussed through the empirical analysis of the visual inspection data on RC handrails in the railway bridge.
Temperature Measurement in One Concrete Bridge
Authors: Radovanović Željka
Published: December 2014

This paper presents instrumentation of one pedestrian bridge in Podgorica that is equipped for monitoring of temperature changes and strains in order to better understand thermal effects on the bridges. All instruments are embedded in structure during the construction of the bridge. Data acquisition is started in October, year 2006. The experimental part of research is finished at the end of June 2007. Montenegro should be adopt Eurocodes as national standards in the future, and for their successful implementation will be necessary to define national parameters in National Annexe which will be according with our climate area or we will adopt the parameters that are already offered as a solution in the code EN 1991-1-5. The results of experimental studies will be used in defining the national parameters that should define the National Annex of code EN 1991-1-5 which is in preparation.
Damage Quantification of Concrete Tied Arch Bridge Based on Step-forward Loading Method
Authors: Niu Yanwei , Gao Zhiyong , Huang Pingming
Published: December 2014

A method of structural damage distribution and quantification on tied arch bridges is presented in this paper. The damage identification and quantification process is proposed, which includes: 1) moving the testing trucks load forward step by step from one end of the bridge to the other end and obtaining the deflection matrix along deck alignment; 2) creating a program connecting Finite Element (FE) and field testing deflection matrix and using the optimization method to control the model updating to satisfy the real rigidity distribution; 3) verifying the method by theoretical model and related computation results. This method was later applied to a 52m span concrete arch bridge, and its damage quantification is analysed using field deflection matrix after step-forward loading test. Compared with other studies, the method shown in this paper shows a damage identification method which can quantify the structural rigidity distribution. The testing data used is obtained from step-forward loading which collects the response reflecting each zone’s working condition of bridge. And data used in paper is based on static test to reduce the testing error and insure input accuracy.
Structural Health Monitoring Standards
Authors: Del Grosso Andrea E.
Published: December 2014

Although Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) techniques can be considered relatively mature, at least from the scientific point of view, they have not yet become a standard practice in civil engineering because of several reasons. One of these reasons has been individuated in the lack of comprehensive standards addressing the complete SHM process and especially potential utilization. The paper is aimed at briefly reviewing existing standards and tracing the lines for possible extensions, based on experiences gathered from the field and the actual evolution of SHM techniques. Lifecycle approaches including SHM are considered as well. In addition, the relationships between Structural Health Monitoring and Design Standards are addressed, raising the question whether in the design of a monitored structure and of a traditional one, the same safety coefficient should be applied. Consideration is given to the aspect of uncertainty modelling in both cases.
Concept design and construction of a footbridge over the new bypass road in the town of Sant Pere Sacarrera (Spain)
Authors: Font Xavier
Published: December 2014

The paper talks about the concept design process, the description of the most important features and the construction sequence of a footbridge over the new bypass road of the town of Sant Pere Sacarrera, in Spain. The new structure is part of a Y-shaped itinerary that links the town centre with two tracks that give access to a forest area and were interrupted by the new road. The client not only wanted us to provide pedestrians pleasant walks, but also carry out an attractive design that would improve the visual experience of the drivers, avoiding, however, luxurious solutions. The aim was to get a proposal with reduced whole life cost and environmental burdens. This strongly conditioned the election of the materials and technologies of the project.
Sustainability Issues of Concern for Bridge Engineers in India
Authors: Bhowmick Alok
Published: December 2014

This paper highlights the need for sustainable growth of bridge industry in the country. It underlines the fact that in a world of finite resources, economic development has to go hand in hand with the social progress with protection of the environment. It overviews the current state of practice in the concrete bridge industry in India and broadly discusses what sustainable bridge design is all about. The paper also underlines the potential benefits of pursuing sustainable bridge design and flags the urgent need for a development of a National Standard for sustainable bridge design. The paper emphasizes the urgent need for a focused campaign to bring a paradigm shift in the mindset of the stakeholders (Clients, Contractors, Consultants, Cement Manufacturers…etc.) for moving towards a sustainable growth. Finally, the paper recommends certain immediate steps to be taken with respect to design of bridges to address the sustainability issue.
LCC-Efficient Procurement of Bridge Infrastructures
Authors: Safi Mohammed , Simonsson Peter , Racutanu George
Published: December 2014

Life-cycle cost analysis (LCCA) has recognized potential for rationalizing bridge procurement, but its use in this context is far from systematic and the integration of LCCA findings in decisions is often far from robust. Furthermore, although most bridge management systems (BMSs) include databases of relevant information, agencies do not use them effectively to improve future bridge investment decisions. This paper introduces a comprehensive approach for agencies to exploit their BMS to procure the most cost-efficient bridge design through fair design-build (D-B) tendering processes. The approach incorporates use of a novel LCCA technique, LCC Added-Value Analysis, that can be conveniently integrated with public agencies’ established procurement procedures and maintains contractors’ freedoms in D-B processes. The proposed approach allows bridge procurers to establish monetary LCC-efficient benchmarks and embed them in tender documents as core specifications. Hence the lowest LCC bid can be employed as the contract award criterion, rather the lowest bid in initial investment terms. The Swedish Transport Administration (Trafikverket) has recently procured several bridges using the approach, thereby gaining considerable cost savings. A presented case-study provides insights into various aspects of bridges’ LCC and illustrates analytical steps that other agencies could apply in bridge procurement. The study shows that use of D-Bs together with the lowest LCC bid as the contract award criterion affords greater opportunities to consider LCC aspects in bridge procurement than traditional contracts and the lowest bid criterion.
Bridges and Sustainability – 3 Case Studies
Authors: Martin Andrew , Kirk Martin
Published: December 2014

This paper presents sustainability in the context of bridges by means of three short case studies. The case studies consider how a bridge construction project can deliver a range of positive sustainability outcomes, how sustainability can be integrated into the development of a major new bridge and infrastructure project and how a major contribution to sustainability may be achieved when a project is considered in its broadest context.
Sustainable design of office buildings in steel composite construction
Authors: Stroetmann Richard , Podgorski Christine
Published: December 2014

The issue of sustainability becomes more and more important in the building industry. Within the scope of the German FOSTA research project P881 “Sustainable office buildings in steel composite construction” [1] recommendations and planning tools for slabs and columns in consideration of structural and technical as well as economic and ecological requirements were developed. In this paper, firstly, the requirement profiles of ceiling systems and columns are demonstrated. Deepened discussed are the possibilities of an environmentally compliant design for structural components, which includes optimisations of static, ecological and economical aspects. For the purpose of reuse and considering deconstruction a systematisation of structural components as well as the environmentally compliant design are implemented. Furthermore, concepts for the increase of resource efficiency are demonstrated.
High Performance Timber Bridges
Authors: Vivas Julio
Published: December 2014

One of man’s oldest building materials, wood enduring benefits and modern techonolgy have kept it at the forefront of intelligent design. Wood is resistant to heat, frost, corrosion and pollution. Worldwide, architects, engineers and buiding professionals are re-evaluating the role of wood as a renewable and versatile building material to achieve a modern, natural look.

Timber can meet the same structural requirements as any other building material, the maintenance required on a timber bridge could be greatly minimized and very easy to perform, A Timber Bridge easily blends into the existing environment and enriches the surrounding area.

In this paper, I will show detailed examples of high-performance bridges who have taken advantage of the amazing features of this material.
Brandvlei Correctional Farm: Hot Water Reticulation System
Authors: Jurgens Christiaan J.
Published: December 2014

The Brandvlei correctional farm currently houses approximately 4500 inmates, administrators an wardens. The Facility is unique in that all of its potable water is sourced directly from the natural, free-flowing hot spring from which it gets its name.

Previously however, an enormous amount of electrical energy was being wasted by the re-heating of cold water for end-use in the Facility’s calorifiers and geysers.

In 2004 it was finally proposed that an independent hot water reticulation system be installed feed the 64°C hot spring water directly into all of the existing correctional facilities.

This project is therefore a prime example of how engineering ingenuity can be used to sustainabl bring progress, nature and people together.
One Year Operational Strain Monitoring of Shanghai Yangtze River Main Navigation Channel Bridge to Normal Traffic
Authors: Sun Zhi , Zhang Wei , Niu Ya-Fen
Published: December 2014

This paper presents operational strain monitoring results of the main navigation channel cable- stayed bridge of Shanghai Yangtze River Bridge in normal traffic condition. The strain records of the hot spots in 10 critical cross sections of the bridge are collected and then analyzed. The strains due to environmental effects (wind and temperature) and operational vehicles are separated. The strain influence lines of the bridge under moving vehicles are then extracted and compared with the computed influence line from a baseline numerical model for model calibration. The statistical characteristics of the bridge strain influence lines are then analyzed, summarized by month, and presented in this paper.
Covariance Driven Subspace Identification Technique for Continuous Modal Parameters Identification of Sutong Bridge.
Authors: Khan Inamullah , Shan Deshan , Malik Khurram
Published: December 2014

In order to allow a continuous online monitoring of modal frequencies and damping ratios, and to provide a good damage detection technique, covariance driven subspace identification (COSSI) technique with Empirical mode decomposition (EMD) as a filter for frequency decomposition and change for non-linear and non-stationary signals, is adopted for signal processing. This method provides advanced capabilities for modal parameter identification for continuous online modal parameter identification. Sutong Bridge, a long span cable stayed bridge is taken as a case study and the proposed method is applied. The results validates that the proposed method provides an accurate tracking of modal parameters such as damping coefficients and frequencies on continuous real life data.
Development and Practical Application of Prestressed Concrete Bridge Rating Expert System
Authors: Miyamoto Ayaho
Published: December 2014

The author has been developing a practical Bridge Management System that is referred to as the Japanese Bridge Management System (J-BMS) for existing concrete bridges. This paper introduces a newly developed bridge management system for the prestressed concrete (PC) bridges (J-BMS PC version) which integrated with the PC bridge rating expert system (PC-BREX). The proposed system is able to predict the deterioration process of the existing PC bridge superstructure components as well as assess a broad array of optional corrective strategies. The system also has the capability to search and retrieve from a J-BMS database system(J-BMS DB), the necessary information, carry out suitable analyses to arrive at some recommendations that would help users to optimize their decisions based on engineering aspects, cost and economic issues and bridge management policies. A comparison of the results of applying the system to some actual in-service PC bridges with a special designed survey form to experts shows that optimal maintenance planning as well as bridge rating can be predicted accurately by using the system.
Probabilistic Performance Assessment of Highway Bridges Using Operational Monitoring Data
Authors: Kim Hyun-Joong , Park Wonsuk , Koh Hyun-Moo
Published: December 2014

A new probabilistic performance assessment procedure using operational monitoring data is proposed. In the procedure, multiple finite element models are identified from the weighted aggregation formulation for multi-objective optimization problem, each of which can represent uncertainty condition of operational monitoring data. By applying principal component analysis andK-means clustering on numerous candidate models, they are grouped according to their similarity and contributions in performance assessment. And then bridge’s performance can be assessed in probabilistic approach using the FE models in the classified groups, at which specific types of operational monitoring data uncertainty is represented. Yeondae Bridge, a steel-box girder highway bridge in Korea, is taken as an illustrative example. Load rating factor is evaluated as performance index of the bridge, and compared to rating factors by sophisticated model and baseline mode to verify effectiveness of proposed method.
Application of Terrestrial Laser Scanner In Bridge Inspection: Review and an Opportunity
Authors: Truong-Hong Linh , Laefer Debra F.
Published: December 2014

Heavy traffic and aggressive environmental conditions can cause unexpected bridge deterioration. Traditional condition evaluation is expensive. An alternative is Terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) which is a non-contact approach that safe, fast, and applicable to a range of weather conditions. This paper reviews applications of TLS on bridge measurement involving geometric documentation, surface defect determination, and corrosion evaluation, and crack identification. Currently, most post-processing of TLS is manual or within third party software. This paper discusses potential approaches to automatic post-processing.
Monitoring of the Seitenhafenbridge in Vienna
Authors: Geier Roman , Mack Thomas , Krebes Erich
Published: December 2014

More and more bridges without bearings and expansion joints have been designed and built in recent years as a result of the numerous advantages which integral bridges have all through their life cycle. This type of a bridge with larger load bearing structures not exceeding 100 m has been accepted meanwhile also by clients. With increasing length however, temperature variations have significant effects on the movements and thus on the soil-structure interaction which, when we speak about a long integral construction, is relevant in terms of measurement. The Seitenhafenbridge in Vienna presented in this article is currently the longest integral bridge in Austria. Having regard to ist total length of about 130 meters, the client requested and installed a complex system for the monitoring of the movements of the construction. The monitoring system constantly measures the temperatures and the movements of the construction, like for example deflection, inclination, length variation and ground pressure at the abutment. The data are continuously assessed and summed up in intermediary reports for the client in order to provide an overview on the actual behaviour of the structure.
Vision-based deformation monitoring of large scale structures using Unmanned Aerial Systems
Authors: Hallermann Norman , Morgenthal Guido , Rodehorst Volker
Published: December 2014

The monitoring and inspection of structures is typically based on visual investigations. Especially the examination of very large structures, for example large retaining walls or dams, is an exceptionally complex task for civil engineers and closely associated with high risks regarding to the assessment of structural stability. For a reliable assessment of the structural stability detailed data of all parts of the structure are required. But an all-embracing inspection of such structures is technically complex and time consuming. This leads to high inspection costs.

This paper presents a new vision-based monitoring method of large scale structures based on aerial photos taken by remote controlled unmanned aerial systems. The approach offers the possibility of detailed automatic displacement detection by using photogrammetric computer vision algorithms in post flight analysis. The currently available high-end flight systems and new computer vision methods can contribute to the improvement of quality and efficiency of the inspection and safety of large structures.
Developing the UHS for an Important Building in Tehran and Comparison among Its UHS and Well-Known Iranian Design Spectra
Authors: Yaghoobi Vayeghan Fariborz , Firoozi Nezamabadi Maryam
Published: December 2014

A site investigation as well as a Seismic Hazard Analysis (SHA) has been carried out for an important building in centre of Tehran (capital of Iran). The aim has been estimating the level of seismic hazard for the site, developing the Uniform Hazard Spectra (UHS) for horizontal as well as vertical component to design against seismic ground motion more precisely and comparison among the UHS and Iranian Seismic Code design spectrum (Standard No. 2800-05, 3rd Edition). At first, it was tried to recognize all the active faults (sources) around the site. Secondly, by using the appropriate attenuation laws, the PGA values on the site were estimated. Maximum values of PGA obtained for the site were 0.932g, 0.626g, 0.497g and 0.358g respectively for 2%, 10%, 20% and 50% probability of exceedence in 50 years ground motions depending on the applied attenuation laws such as Boore-joyner-Fummal, Ambraseys, Ambraseys-Bommer, Ambraseys-Simpson, and Zare-Ashtiany. The UHS, which are more reliable for design purposes, were constructed for the 2%, 10%, 20% and 50% probability of exceedence in 50 years ground motions by using Zare- Ashtiany and Ambraseys-Simpson spectral attenuation laws. Then the design spectrum for Life Safety Level was drawn based on the PGA values and Iranian Seismic Code. Finally, these spectra were compared with each other and the results discussed.
Examining Implementation Fidelity in America’s Choice Schools
Authors: Kisa Zahid , Correnti Richard
Published: December 2014

The research on professional development (PD) consists mostly of studies utilizing cross-sectional data. We examined effects of change in school-level PD on change in teachers’ practice longitudinally. Using survey reports from 1,722 teachers in 31 schools implementing a popular comprehensive school reform (America’s Choice), we found that although schools were implementing the same reform model, they varied in their implementation of PD. Teachers successfully changed their practice toward reform-aligned instructional goals only in schools demonstrating high growth in providing reform-aligned PD (both in the content and process of their PD). Our findings have implications for understanding interventions in schools and for thinking about the rigor of PD effects on teaching.
Do Charter Schools Improve Student Achievement?
Authors: Clark Melissa A. , Gleason Philip M. , Tuttle Christina Clark , Silverberg Marsha K.
Published: December 2014

This article presents findings from a lottery-based study of the impacts of a broad set of 33 charter middle schools across 13 states on student achievement. To estimate charter school impacts, we compare test score outcomes of students admitted to these schools through the randomized admissions lotteries with outcomes of applicants who were not admitted. We find that impacts varied considerably across schools and students, with more positive impacts for more disadvantaged schools and students and more negative impacts for the more advantaged. On average across the schools in the study, the impacts of charter middle schools on student achievement were negative but not statistically significant, regardless of whether we examined the impact of the offer of admission or actual attendance at these schools.
A Phospho-SIM in the Antiviral Protein PML is Required for Its Recruitment to HSV-1 Genomes
Authors: Smith Miles , Box Andrew , Haug Jeffrey , Lane William , Davido David
Published: December 2014

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is a significant human pathogen that infects a large portion of the human population. Cells deploy a variety of defenses to limit the extent to which the virus can replicate. One such factor is the promyelocytic leukemia (PML) protein, the nucleating and organizing factor of nuclear domain 10 (ND10). PML responds to a number of stimuli and is implicated in intrinsic and innate cellular antiviral defenses against HSV-1. While the role of PML in a number of cellular pathways is controlled by post-translational modifications, the effects of phosphorylation on its antiviral activity toward HSV-1 have been largely unexplored. Consequently, we mapped phosphorylation sites on PML, mutated these and other known phosphorylation sites on PML isoform I (PML-I), and examined their effects on a number of PML’s activities. Our results show that phosphorylation at most sites on PML-I is dispensable for the formation of ND10s and colocalization between PML-I and the HSV-1 regulatory protein, ICP0, which antagonizes PML-I function. However, inhibiting phosphorylation at sites near the SUMO-interaction motif (SIM) of PML-I impairs its ability to respond to HSV-1 infection. Overall, our data suggest that PML phosphorylation regulates its antiviral activity against HSV-1.
Advanced Energy Harvesting from Macroalgae—Innovative Integration of Drying, Gasification and Combined Cycle
Authors: Aziz Muhammad , Oda Takuya , Kashiwagi Takao
Published: December 2014

State-of-the-art integrated macroalgae utilization processes, consisting of drying, gasification, and combined cycle, are proposed and their performance with respect to energy efficiency are evaluated. To achieve high exergy efficiency, the integration is performed through two main principles: exergy recovery and process integration. Initially, the energy involved in one process is recirculated intensively through exergy elevation and effective heat coupling. Furthermore, the unrecoverable energy from one process will be utilized in the other processes through process integration. As the result, the total exergy destruction from the whole integrated processes can be minimized significantly leading to significant improvement in energy efficiency. The first analysis relates to the performance of integrated drying process, especially the influence of target moisture content to energy consumption. Furthermore, the influences of gasification fluidization velocity to the total generated power and power generation efficiency are also calculated. As the results of study, the proposed integrated-processes proved a very high energy efficiency. A positive energy harvesting with the total power generation efficiency of about 40% could be achieved.
Modeling of the Electrical and Thermal Behaviors of an Ultracapacitor
Authors: Lee Jeongbin , Yi Jaeshin , Kim Daeyong , Shin Chee , Min Kyung-Seok , Choi Jongrak , Lee Ha-Young
Published: December 2014

This paper reports a modeling methodology to predict the electrical and thermal behaviors of a 2.7 V/650 F ultracapacitor (UC) cell from LS Mtron Ltd. (Anyang, Korea). The UC cell is subject to the charge/discharge cycling with constant-current between 1.35 V and 2.7 V. The charge/discharge current values examined are 50, 100, 150, and 200 A. A three resistor-capacitor (RC) parallel branch model is employed to calculate the electrical behavior of the UC. The modeling results for the variations of the UC cell voltage as a function of time for various charge/discharge currents are in good agreement with the experimental measurements. A three-dimensional thermal model is presented to predict the thermal behavior of the UC. Both of the irreversible and reversible heat generations inside the UC cell are considered. The validation of the three-dimensional thermal model is provided through the comparison of the modeling results with the experimental infrared (IR) image at various charge/discharge currents. A zero-dimensional thermal model is proposed to reduce the significant computational burden required for the three-dimensional thermal model. The zero-dimensional thermal model appears to generate the numerical results accurate enough to resolve the thermal management issues related to the UC for automotive applications without relying on significant computing resources.
Continental Collision Structures and Post-Orogenic Geological History of the Kangerlussuaq Area in the Southern Part of the Nagssugtoqidian Orogen, Central West Greenland
Authors: Engström Jon , Klint Knud
Published: December 2014

Deep-seated continental collision sutures, formed at a depth of more than 20 km, are exposed near Kangerlussuaq, close to the Greenland ice cap, on the southern margin of the Nagssugtoqidian orogen in Central West Greenland, thus offering a rare opportunity to study the tectonic deformation style of such an orogen. This paper adds new information on the tectonic history of the southern flank of the Nagssugtoqidian orogen. It focuses on (1) the results of a detailed structural investigation of lineament zones revealed from remote sensing of geophysical and topographic data and aerial photo interpretation, (2) detailed geological mapping at key locations and (3) a tectonic structural model describing the geological development of the area. The area has undergone several episodes of deformation, which have been compiled into an event succession that recognizes eight tectonic events overprinting each other: Two stages of folding (F1 and F2) have been identified along with one major episode of intrusion of the Kangâmiut mafic dyke swarm (2.05 Ga) into the Archaean continent. These dyke intrusions are very important, since by examining the style of deformation for these intrusions it is possible to define the transition from the North Atlantic Craton in the south to the mobile belts in the Nagssugtoqidian orogen in the north. Five different types of pronounced lineaments and one less pronounced lineament post-dating the Kangâmiut dykes extending from ductile deformation shearing events to brittle deformation with extensive faulting. These lineaments cover both the collisional and post-collisional tectonic history of the area. The study focused on two types of lineaments: one semi-ductile type trending E–W with a dextral sense of shear and a second, a pronounced lineament outlining the Kangerlussuaq–Russell thrust fault. These two features are interpreted to be related to the Nagssugtoqidian orogeny, while the latter lineaments have a more brittle appearance and are regarded to be considerably younger and probably related to post-orogenic tectonic events.
Alanine Aminotransferase within Reference Range Is Associated with Metabolic Syndrome in Middle-Aged and Elderly Chinese Men and Women
Authors: Zhang Xuebing , Mu Yiming , Yan Wenhua , Ba Jianming , Li Hongmei
Published: December 2014

Objective: To investigate the association between serum ALT level within reference range (≤40 U/L) and morbidity of MetS in a large middle-aged and elderly Chinese community population. Methods: Our study was a community-based cross-sectional survey which used cluster sampling method. From November 2011 to August 2012 a total of 16,539 subjects (males 5184; females 11,355) with serum ALT levels in the normal range aged ≥40 years from Shijingshan District (Beijing, China) were included in the study. Data on demographic information, lifestyle, history of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, dyslipidemia and liver disease were collected. Body height, body weight, waist circumference, hip circumference, and blood pressure were recorded. The oral glucose tolerance test or a standard meal test and blood lipid test was performed. The determination of metabolic syndrome was according to the unified criteria published in 2009. The association between serum ALT level and metabolic syndrome was evaluated by logistic regression. The association between serum ALT level and all components of metabolic syndrome was evaluated by multiple linear regression. p < 0.05 was regarded as statistically significant. Results: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 41.4% in males and 40.6% in females. We found ALT level was positively associated with odds of metabolic syndrome after adjustment for age, smoking, and alcohol intake. The odds ratio values of MetS in the ALT quartiles 2–4 groups were 1.920 (95%CI: 1.619–2.277), 2.853 (95%CI: 2.407–3.381), and 4.171 (95%CI: 3.510–4.956) in males; 1.889 (95%CI: 1.671–2.136), 3.490 (95%CI: 3.095–3.935), and 5.593 (95%CI: 4.957–6.311) in females, respectively, compared with the ALT quartile 1 group. Conclusions: Higher serum ALT level within the reference range was associated with increased odds of MetS in middle-aged and elderly Chinese men and women.
Mobile Applications for Participation at the Shopping Mall: Content Analysis and Usability for Persons with Physical Disabilities and Communication or Cognitive Limitations
Authors: Auger Claudine , Leduc Emilie , Labbé Delphine , Guay Cassioppée , Fillion Brigitte , Bottari Carolina , Swaine Bonnie
Published: December 2014

The aim of this exploratory study was to determine the important features in content and usability of existing mobile applications evaluating environmental barriers and facilitators (EBF) to participation for persons with physical disabilities presenting mild communication or cognitive limitations. A rigorous process based on a user-centered design approach led to the identification of two relevant mobile applications to evaluate the EBF. An accessibility expert, the research team as well as five users then tested the mobile applications in a shopping mall. A thematic content analysis of the research team’s and users’ comments established 10 categories of key features that adequately respond to the needs of the clientele targeted in this study. In terms of content, granularity and contextualization of the information provided were considered important. With respect to usability, relevant features were place finding, rating system, presentation of results, compatibility, user-friendliness, aesthetics, credibility of the information as well as connectivity/interactiveness. The research team and the users agreed on some aspects such as aesthetics, but had different perspectives on features such as the rating system or the connectivity/interactiveness of the application. The users proposed new features suggesting that the existing mobile applications did not correspond to all their needs.
Use of the NASA Giovanni Data System for Geospatial Public Health Research: Example of Weather-Influenza Connection
Authors: Acker James , Soebiyanto Radina , Kiang Richard , Kempler Steve
Published: December 2014

The NASA Giovanni data analysis system has been recognized as a useful tool to access and analyze many different types of remote sensing data. The variety of environmental data types has allowed the use of Giovanni for different application areas, such as agriculture, hydrology, and air quality research. The use of Giovanni for researching connections between public health issues and Earth’s environment and climate, potentially exacerbated by anthropogenic influence, has been increasingly demonstrated. In this communication, the pertinence of several different data parameters to public health will be described. This communication also provides a case study of the use of remote sensing data from Giovanni in assessing the associations between seasonal influenza and meteorological parameters. In this study, logistic regression was employed with precipitation, temperature and specific humidity as predictors. Specific humidity was found to be associated (p < 0.05) with influenza activity in both temperate and tropical climate. In the two temperate locations studied, specific humidity was negatively correlated with influenza; conversely, in the three tropical locations, specific humidity was positively correlated with influenza. Influenza prediction using the regression models showed good agreement with the observed data (correlation coefficient of 0.5–0.83).
Shotgun Bisulfite Sequencing of the Betula platyphylla Genome Reveals the Tree’s DNA Methylation Patterning
Authors: Su Chang , Wang Chao , He Lin , Yang Chuanping , Wang Yucheng
Published: December 2014

DNA methylation plays a critical role in the regulation of gene expression. Most studies of DNA methylation have been performed in herbaceous plants, and little is known about the methylation patterns in tree genomes. In the present study, we generated a map of methylated cytosines at single base pair resolution for Betula platyphylla (white birch) by bisulfite sequencing combined with transcriptomics to analyze DNA methylation and its effects on gene expression. We obtained a detailed view of the function of DNA methylation sequence composition and distribution in the genome of B. platyphylla. There are 34,460 genes in the whole genome of birch, and 31,297 genes are methylated. Conservatively, we estimated that 14.29% of genomic cytosines are methylcytosines in birch. Among the methylation sites, the CHH context accounts for 48.86%, and is the largest proportion. Combined transcriptome and methylation analysis showed that the genes with moderate methylation levels had higher expression levels than genes with high and low methylation. In addition, methylated genes are highly enriched for the GO subcategories of binding activities, catalytic activities, cellular processes, response to stimulus and cell death, suggesting that methylation mediates these pathways in birch trees.
LRP-1: Functions, Signaling and Implications in Kidney and Other Diseases
Authors: Lin Ling , Hu Kebin
Published: December 2014

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-related protein-1 (LRP-1) is a member of LDL receptor family that is implicated in lipoprotein metabolism and in the homeostasis of proteases and protease inhibitors. Expression of LRP-1 is ubiquitous. Up-regulation of LRP-1 has been reported in numerous human diseases. In addition to its function as a scavenger receptor for various ligands, LRP-1 has been shown to transduce multiple intracellular signal pathways including mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), Akt, Rho, and the integrin signaling. LRP-1 signaling plays an important role in the regulation of diverse cellular process, such as cell proliferation, survival, motility, differentiation, and transdifferentiation, and thus participates in the pathogenesis of organ dysfunction and injury. In this review, we focus on the current understanding of LRP-1 signaling and its roles in the development and progression of kidney disease. The role and signaling of LRP-1 in the nervous and cardiovascular systems, as well as in carcinogenesis, are also briefly discussed.
Dysfunction of Endocytic Kinase AAK1 in ALS
Authors: Shi Bingxing , Conner Sean , Liu Jian
Published: December 2014

Mechanisms of human mutant superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1)-induced toxicity in causing the familial form of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) remain elusive. Identification of new proteins that can selectively interact with mutant SOD1s and investigation of their potential roles in ALS are important to discover new pathways that are involved in disease pathology. Using the yeast two-hybrid system, we identified the adaptor-associated kinase 1 (AAK1), a regulatory protein in clathrin-coated vesicle endocytic pathway that selectively interacted with the mutant but not the wild-type SOD1. Using both transgenic mouse and rat SOD1-linked familial ALS (FALS) models, we found that AAK1 was partially colocalized with the endosomal and presynaptic protein markers under the normal physiological condition, but was mislocated into aggregates that contained mutant SOD1s and the neurofilament proteins in rodent models of ALS in disease. AAK1 protein levels were also decreased in ALS patients. These results suggest that dysfunction of a component in the endosomal and synaptic vesicle recycling pathway is involved in ALS pathology.
Various Oxygen-Centered Phosphanegold(I) Cluster Cations Formed by Polyoxometalate (POM)-Mediated Clusterization: Effects of POMs and Phosphanes
Authors: Yoshida Takuya , Yasuda Yuta , Nagashima Eri , Arai Hidekazu , Matsunaga Satoshi , Nomiya Kenji
Published: December 2014

Novel phosphanegold(I) cluster cations combined with polyoxometalate (POM) anions, i.e., intercluster compounds, [(Au{P(m-FPh)3})4(μ4-O)]2[{(Au{P(m-FPh)3})2 (μ-OH)}2][α-PMo12O40]2·EtOH (1), [(Au{P(m-FPh)3})4(μ4-O)]2[α-SiMo12O40]·4H2O (2), [(Au{P(m-MePh)3})4(μ4-O)]2[α-SiM12O40] (M = W (3), Mo (4)) and [{(Au {P(p-MePh)3})4(μ4-O)}{(Au{P(p-MePh)3})3(μ3-O)}][α-PW12O40] (5) were synthesized by POM-mediated clusterization, and unequivocally characterized by elemental analysis, TG/DTA, FT-IR, X-ray crystallography, solid-state CPMAS 31P NMR and solution (1H, 31P{1H}) NMR. Formation of the these gold(I) cluster cations was strongly dependent upon the charge density and acidity of the POMs, and the substituents and substituted positions on the aryl group of triarylphosphane ligands. These gold(I) cluster cations contained various bridged-oxygen atoms such as μ4-O, μ3-O and μ-OH groups.
Laser Peening Process and Its Impact on Materials Properties in Comparison with Shot Peening and Ultrasonic Impact Peening
Authors: Gujba Abdullahi , Medraj Mamoun
Published: December 2014

The laser shock peening (LSP) process using a Q-switched pulsed laser beam for surface modification has been reviewed. The development of the LSP technique and its numerous advantages over the conventional shot peening (SP) such as better surface finish, higher depths of residual stress and uniform distribution of intensity were discussed. Similar comparison with ultrasonic impact peening (UIP)/ultrasonic shot peening (USP) was incorporated, when possible. The generation of shock waves, processing parameters, and characterization of LSP treated specimens were described. Special attention was given to the influence of LSP process parameters on residual stress profiles, material properties and structures. Based on the studies so far, more fundamental understanding is still needed when selecting optimized LSP processing parameters and substrate conditions. A summary of the parametric studies of LSP on different materials has been presented. Furthermore, enhancements in the surface micro and nanohardness, elastic modulus, tensile yield strength and refinement of microstructure which translates to increased fatigue life, fretting fatigue life, stress corrosion cracking (SCC) and corrosion resistance were addressed. However, research gaps related to the inconsistencies in the literature were identified. Current status, developments and challenges of the LSP technique were discussed.