bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GREEN SYNTHESIS OF GOLD NANOPARTICLES FROM BANANA PITH EXTRACT AND ITS EVALUATION OF ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY AND CATALYTIC REDUCTION OF MALACHITE GREEN DYE
Authors: Nayak Sneha , Prasad Sajankila Shyama , Vaman Rao C.
Published: June 2018

In this paper, we report the synthesis of gold nanoparticles (BPAuNPs) using banana pith extract. Biosynthesized BPAuNPs were screened for phytochemicals coated over them and further characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD and particle size analyser. UV-Visible spectrscopic analysis confirmed the production of BPAuNPs at 530 to 560 nm, where the colour change in the solution from light yellow to deep purple indicated the formation of BPAuNPs. FT-IR analysis confirmed the capping of BPAuNPs with organic residues like, proteins, amino acids and polyphenols present in the extract, which led to stabilization of BPAuNPs. Negative zeta values indicated the stability of BPAuNPs. XRD results prooved the crystalline nature of BPAuNPs. The synthesized BPAuNPs were tested for their antibacterial activity against both Gram positive (Bacillus subtilis) and negative (E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa) bacteria with known antibiotic as control. BPAuNPs showed significant bacteriostatic effect. The BPAuNPs were found to have a positive catalytic activity of reduction of malachite green dye, which was confirmed by the time dependent reduction in absorbance maxima, it can be ascribed to the electron relay response.
Preterm Birth/Low Birth Weight and Markers Reflective of Wealth in Adulthood: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Bilgin Ayten , Mendonca Marina , Wolke Dieter
Published: June 2018

CONTEXT:

Preterm birth and/or low birth weight (PT/LBW) increases the risk of cognitive deficits, which suggests an association between PT/LBW and lower wealth in adulthood. Nevertheless, studies have revealed inconsistent findings so far.

OBJECTIVE:

To systematically investigate whether PT/LBW is associated with markers of adulthood wealth.

DATA SOURCES:

We searched Medline, PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Embase.

STUDY SELECTION:

Prospective longitudinal and registry studies containing reports on selected wealth-related outcomes in PT/LBW-born adults compared with term-born controls.

DATA EXTRACTION:

Two independent reviewers extracted data on educational qualifications, employment rates, social benefits, and independent living.

RESULTS:

Of 1347 articles screened, 23 studies met the inclusion criteria. PT/LBW was associated with decreased likelihood of attainment of higher education qualifications (odds ratio [OR] = 0.74; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.69–0.80), lower employment rate (OR = 0.83; 95% CI = 0.74–0.92), and increased likelihood of receiving social benefits (OR = 1.25; 95% CI = 1.09–1.42). A dose-response relationship according to gestational age was only found for education qualifications. PT/LBW-born adults did not differ significantly from those born at term in independent living.

LIMITATIONS:

There was high heterogeneity between studies. There were unequal numbers of studies from different regions in the world.

CONCLUSIONS:

PT/LBW is associated with lower educational qualifications, decreased rate of employment, and an increased rate of receipt of social benefits in adulthood. Low educational qualifications were most prevalent in those born very preterm and consistent across geographic regions. However, the findings are less clear for independent living.
Інноваційно-інвестиційні механізми регулювання економічної безпеки держави
Authors: Steblianko I. O. , Doroshkevych V. I.
Published: June 2018

Мета роботи – формалізувати інноваційно-інвестиційні механізми регулювання економічної безпеки держави та обґрунтувати перспективи їх розвитку на основі сучасних економічних підходів.
Дизайн/Метод/Підхід дослідження. Застосовано системний підхід, загальнонаукові методи аналізу і синтезу; інформаційною основою є нормативно-правова база та звітні дані Державної служби статистики України.
Результати дослідження. Формалізовано зміст інноваційно-інвестиційних механізмів регулювання економічної безпеки держави як сукупності форм, методів, інструментів стимулювання створення, впровадження у виробництво та просування на ринок продуктових, технологічних, організаційно-управлінських та інших нововведень відповідно до стратегічних пріоритетів національної безпеки.
Теоретичне значення дослідження. Визначено пріоритети інноваційно-інвестиційних механізмів регулювання економічної безпеки: організаційно-правовий, фінансовий, виробничо-технологічний, кадровий, експертно-консалтинговий.
Практичне значення результатів дослідження. Розроблено рекомендації органам державного управління в частині реалізації комплексу економічних і адміністративних заходів, спрямованих на захист національних інтересів України у сфері відтворення і збереження вітчизняного науково-технічного і технологічного потенціалу.
 Соціальне значення результатів дослідження. Виявляється у зміцненні економічної складової забезпечення конституційних гарантій громадян на безпеку, захист їх життя, здоров’я, честі, гідності, недоторканості на основі зростання інноваційно-інвестиційного потенціалу держави.
 Оригінальність/Цінність/Наукова новизна дослідження. Визначено точки дотику теорій залежності від траєкторії попереднього розвитку та трансакційних витрат, що сприятиме виходу України з інституціональної пастки.
Обмеження дослідження. Недосконалість методу, вибірки даних, неможливість доступу до певних інноваційно-інвестиційних механізмів при аналізі стану економічної безпеки України унаслідок державної таємниці.
Перспективи подальших досліджень. Розвивати теорію трансакційних витрат і адаптувати її до зовнішньоекономічних аспектів державного регулювання національної безпеки.
 Тип статті – теоретична.
Development of an information system for teleoperated physical rehab care service via Internet. Pilot case: patients with mild knee injury who live in geographically vulnerable zones
Authors: Tovar-Cuevas José Rafael , Diaz-Mutis Juan David , Quiñones-Mora Gettsy Elizabeth , Pabón Romero Anabella , García-Melo José Isidro
Published: June 2018

En los últimos años, se han implementado nuevas tecnologías para el tratamiento y la rehabilitación de enfermedades, como la medicina a distancia, conocida como telemedicina. Con la participación de un grupo interdisciplinario de investigadores de la Universidad del Valle y profesionales de la salud, se estableció un proyecto piloto para probar un sistema de atención teleoperado con un prototipo diseñado para la rehabilitación de pacientes con lesión leve de rodilla, en la red de salud pública ESE Ladera en Cali, Colombia, para proporcionar servicios de rehabilitación física desde el centro de salud urbano a pacientes que viven en áreas rurales de Cali. Con el fin de evaluar de manera integral el funcionamiento de este sistema de rehabilitación física teleoperado, se diseñó un sistema de información (SI) que incluye un conjunto de indicadores que evalúa el sistema de atención de la salud desde un punto de vista mecánico, económico, clínico y social.
Microalgae biorefineries: applications and emerging technologies
Authors: Giraldo-Calderón Nestor David , Romo-Buchelly Raquel Juliana , Arbeláez-Pérez Andrés Alonso , Echeverri-Hincapié Danilo , Atehortúa-Garcés Lucia
Published: June 2018

Las microalgas transforman el CO2 en un amplio portafolio de biomoléculas, por lo cual, son consideradas una valiosa plataforma biotecnológica. A pesar de múltiples programas de investigación y esfuerzos globales para establecer una industria sostenible basada en microalgas, la mayoría de las aplicaciones potenciales no han trascendido las fronteras académicas. Esta limitación se debe a los altos costos en la transformación del producto principalmente cuando se obtiene compuestos económicos como biocombustibles y fertilizantes. La biorefinería de microalgas surge como alternativa para incrementar la competitividad económica. En este modelo, los insumos del proceso provienen de residuos industriales, mientras que la explotación de la biomasa inicia con las moléculas de alto valor y finaliza con los compuestos menos valiosos. En esta revisión se describe un amplio abanico de esquemas de explotación de microalgas enfocado en nuevos usos de sus constituyentes. Además, se exploran las tecnologías emergentes destinadas a aprovechar esta biomasa de una manera más versátil y eficiente.
Perceptions of Study Leave amongst Neurosurgical Trainees
Authors: McKenna Gráinne , Alamri Alexander , Whitfield Peter
Published: June 2018

This article was migrated. The article was not marked as recommended. BackgroundThere is a paucity of studies in medical education literature addressing the educational value of study leave to doctors in training. The aims of this study were to establish the utilisation of study leave by neurosurgical trainees, to explore the perceived benefits and barriers to taking study leave, and to evaluate to what extent trainees support a more standardised approach to study leave allocation.MethodsIndividual interviews were conducted with 10 neurosurgical trainees, selected from each stage of training - Early (ST1-3), Intermediate (ST4-6) and Final (ST7-8). Qualitative data were coded and an inductive approach was used for thematic analysis.ResultsNeurosurgical trainees at all stages of training perceive study leave offers a wealth of opportunities for learning and professional development. However, there is a striking mismatch between the utility of study leave and the practical uptake, which is partly due to the reported opportunity cost of sacrificing clinical training.There was consensus that combining standardised courses with flexible opportunities for trainees to pursue individual interests and educational needs could enhance the potential educational value of study leave.ConclusionsThe findings demonstrate the critical value of study leave and support the role of standardised national training programme "boot camps", mapped to the curriculum. These can deliver knowledge and technical skills using high fidelity simulation models, thereby increasing educational yield from study leave.
IMITAÇÃO OU COERÇÃO? CONSTITUIÇÕES ESTADUAIS E CENTRALIZAÇÃO FEDERATIVA NO BRASIL
Authors: Couto Cláudio Gonçalves , Absher-Bellon Gabriel Luan
Published: June 2018

Resumo As constituições estaduais brasileiras emulam a Carta Federal, mimetizando sua estrutura e reproduzindo literalmente suas normas. A difusão vertical de normas constitucionais prevalece sobre a horizontal, ou seja, os estados são mais influenciados pela Constituição Federal do que influenciam uns aos outros. Em parte, essa difusão top-down ocorre por imitação, mas é também determinada por coerção, reforçada por decisões judiciais. A originalidade no constitucionalismo estadual brasileiro surge mais em diferentes maneiras de emular a Constituição Federal do que pela criação de normas próprias, fazendo do constitucionalismo estadual mais uma evidência do centralismo dessa federação, ao menos no que concerne à produção de normas jurídicas. O artigo analisa tal fenômeno comparando quantitativamente os textos constitucionais estaduais e federal e avaliando as condições históricas de sua elaboração.
A governança facilitada no Mercosul: transferência de políticas e integração nas áreas de educação, migração e saúde
Authors: Pereira Alexsandro Eugenio , Bernardo Glaucia Julião , Culpi Ludmila Andrzejewski , Pessali Huáscar Fialho
Published: June 2018

Artigo O artigo investiga o papel das instituições do Mercosul no processo de transferência de políticas entre os Estados--membros em três áreas específicas: educação, saúde e migração. O argumento principal é que essas instituições tornaram-se espaços formadores de políticas públicas, atuando como facilitadoras da transferência de políticas nos três casos empíricos examinados. O artigo pretende contribuir para o desenvolvimento de estudos empíricos de transferência de políticas públicas nos processos de integração regional. Os blocos regionais criam espaços de articulação de ideias e trocas de experiências entre os gestores de políticas públicas. A metodologia envolveu análise de documentos oficiais do bloco e entrevistas. Apesar do seu caráter intergovernamental e da sua baixa institucionalização, o Mercosul desempenhou funções importantes no processo de formulação de políticas públicas nacionais nas três áreas selecionadas na pesquisa.
IMPACTOS DA JUSTIÇA TRANSICIONAL SUL-AMERICANA NO SISTEMA INTERAMERICANO DE DIREITOS HUMANOS
Authors: Ramanzini Isabela Gerbelli Garbin
Published: June 2018

Resumo O objetivo deste artigo consiste em examinar como o envolvimento gradual do Sistema Interamericano de Direitos Humanos (SIDH) nas questões de justiça transicional sul-americanas contribuiu para moldar parâmetros institucionais e normativos do sistema regional de direitos humanos. Serão analisados os principais movimentos da trajetória institucional dos órgãos interamericanos e os casos considerados paradigmáticos. Os resultados indicam que, na temática da justiça transicional, a atuação interamericana revela uma abordagem mais inovadora da proteção dos direitos humanos ao suscitar interpretações expansivas da Convenção Americana de Direitos Humanos, norma da qual se derivam poderes e competências conferidos pelos Estados-partes do SIDH.
A PRÁTICA DA GESTÃO DA EDUCAÇÃO DE JOVENS E ADULTOS NO SERVIÇO SOCIAL DA INDÚSTRIA NO ESTADO DA BAHIA
Authors: Freitas Gisele Marcia de Oliveira , Cavalcante Társio Ribeiro , Amorim Antonio , Freitas Katia Siqueira de
Published: June 2018

Resumo: Este artigo resultou de pesquisa quali-quanti sobre as práticas da gestão da educação de jovens e adultos (EJA), oferecida pelo Serviço Social da Indústria (SESI), durante o ano de 2015, no estado da Bahia. O objetivo foi investigar, a partir dos olhares de sujeitos envolvidos, como ocorria a gestão nesse contexto da pesquisa e qual o estilo dominante. O referencial teórico envolveu Amorim (2012), Barbosa (1995), Campos (2004), Castro (1998), Cury (2002), Diniz-Pereira (2006), Freitas e Pilla (2006), Gadotti e Romão (2004), Libâneo (2001), Lück et al (2012), entre outros. Como resultados, podemos afirmar que os investigados declararam entender que a participação nas práticas gestoras e pedagógicas é fundamental para o estabelecimento de ações gestoras, democráticas e participativas. Elas ampliam e fortalecem a qualidade gestora no âmbito institucional.
Distributive judgments in cooperative production contexts
Authors: CABRAL Guilherme Ribeiro Eulalio , SAMPAIO Leonardo Rodrigues , ROAZZI Antonio
Published: June 2018

Abstract The objective of the present study was to investigate distributive judgments in hypothetical situations involving productive activities. The participants should divide produced cupcakes between two story characters. One of the characters was the participant him/herself. Three factors were analyzed: (1) mode of production: cooperative with the help of one person or alone using someone else’s means of production; (2) purpose of production: sale or picnic; and (3) participants’ perspective: give the cupcakes to or take from the other character. Their confidence on each judgment and how easily they made their judgments were other aspects analyzed. The sample consisted of 156 university students. The results showed that the three factors influenced the participants’ distributive judgment, and mode of production had the most significant influence. These results were discussed based on recent research on cooperative behavior and cognitive mechanisms that affect the decision-making process in situations involving distributive justice.
Segmento de Tecnologia Analisado pela Multidimensional Work Motivation Scale
Authors: Machado Clarice Lucas da Silva , Cabral Patrícia Martins Fagundes , Vaccaro Guilherme Luís Roehe
Published: June 2018

Resumo Este artigo objetivou analisar os fatores motivacionais através da Teoria da Autodeterminação (Deci & Ryan, 1985) e da aplicação da Multidimensional Work Motivation Scale (MWMS) (Gagné et al., 2014; Santos et al., in press), em trabalhadores de empresas de tecnologia do Sul do Brasil. A coleta de dados contou com 256 respondentes do questionário e 6 entrevistas semiestruturadas, sendo esta, portanto, uma pesquisa quanti-qualitativa, de natureza descritiva. Na etapa quantitativa, aplicou-se a Análise Fatorial Confirmatória (AFC), a análise de confiabilidade de escala pelo coeficiente Alfa de Cronbach e outros testes estatísticos. A etapa qualitativa foi tratada através da Análise de Conteúdo. Os principais resultados apontam que esses trabalhadores são primordialmente orientados pela Motivação Autônoma, seguidos pela Motivação Controlada. Salienta-se que o fator Desmotivação não foi evidenciado no conjunto de trabalhadores estudado. Recomenda-se que a motivação seja trabalhada no âmbito organizacional, de liderança e no individual, de forma conjunta, abrangendo mais elementos que possam alavancar o bem-estar do trabalhador e, consequentemente, melhorar os resultados organizacionais.
Sustainable Competitive Advantage Needs Green Human Resource Practices: A Framework for Environmental Management
Authors: Almada Lívia , Borges Renata
Published: June 2018

Abstract The aim of this theoretical essay is to analyze the role of human resource (HR) management to achieve organizational sustainable competitive advantage (SCA), through the Natural Resource Based View (NRBV) perspective. We performed an exploratory-descriptive bibliographic research. We first provide key definitions to identify SCA, such as sustainability, sustainable development, and organizational sustainability. We then developed a theoretical framework integrating HR practices with NRBV strategies (pollution prevention, product stewardship, and sustainable development) in order to achieve SCA. As results, a set of propositions regarding HR management and sustainability are offered to be empirically analyzed in future research. The major contribution of this study is to offer an integrative framework of HR practices and NRBV strategies. This paper also adds value to managers by presenting ways to implement HR management for organizational sustainability achievement.
Prospective scenarios for regional development in Bolivar, Colombia: Great Vision study 2014-2064
Authors: Silva César Augusto Velandia
Published: June 2018

Abstract Under the premise on how public policy can contribute to decision-making on the consolidation of the urban-regional system, physical-productive integration, connectivity and social mobility in the Department of Bolivar, Colombia, from its planning with a horizon of 50 years, the study determines strategic recommendations necessary for its competitive positioning before more developed regions in the country. The study intends to visualize territorial planning based on integrating elements such as the culture, geographic characteristics, economic vocation and infrastructure of the Bolivarian territory, based on its great wealth, but a great affectation for the violence of the Colombian conflict, and the forget about centralized development. Based on an integral vision of the department, a long-term perspective means an opportunistic vision supported on transversal and inclusive elements of the territory, leading the discussion towards the feasible application of adjusted prospective planning methodology, and even continental scales of vision in which the region registers but whose processes are very questionable.
Frequency analysis of minimum flows
Authors: Granemann Adelita Ramaiana Bennemann , Mine Miriam Rita Moro , Kaviski Eloy
Published: June 2018

ABSTRACT The study of minimum flows is increasingly important due to the relationship with ecosystem sustainability, the economy and its role as a sentinel of climate change. The aim of this paper is to contribute to the theoretical treatment of minimum extremes and, specifically, minimum flows. The method has two approaches: i) conventional; ii) asymptotic. In conventional analysis, the Weibull (W2) and Lognormal distributions of two parameters (LN2) were adjusted to the series of annual minimum flows and minimum averages of 7-day flows. In the asymptotic analysis approach two parent distributions, the distributions of all average daily flows, with power behavior for minimum flows, are investigated: i) Gamma; ii) LN2. The theory studied in this paper is applied to 11 gauged stations in the Iguaçu river basin with 48-year data series. It was concluded that the LN2 distribution presents the best fit according to the χ 2 test. It was found that the Gamma distribution, with respect to the minimums, tends to a power function, and consequently the W2 distribution. The parameters k, b and μ X , of the normalized annual minimum flow series are well-fitted to the LN2 distribution. According to both approaches, LN2 can be recommended for studies of minimum flows in the Iguaçu river basin.
Drying parameters of rendering mortars
Authors: Salomão Maria Cláudia de Freitas , Bauer Elton , Kazmierczak Claudio de Souza
Published: June 2018

Abstract The objective of this article was to study the drying behavior of rendering mortars. Cement-lime mortars with different mix proportions were evaluatedto analyze the influence of mix materials on water transport. The experimental program was produced to observe the transport of liquid water and vapor water in mortars during the drying process. The liquid water transport was studied through capillary absorption and the water vapor transport by the water vapor permeability test. The drying curves used to investigate drying kinetics were obtained according to the methodology recommended by European standard EN 16322. In summary, it is possible to affirm that the aggregate, the binder and water contents determine the behavior of the mortars regarding water transport. The drying index is considered a good indicator of the easiness of both liquid and vapor water transport.
Mechanical properties and microstructure of ultra-high performance cement-based composite incorporating RHA
Authors: Rong Zhidan , Ding Junyong , Cui Zhenjun , Sun Wei
Published: June 2018

The effects of the addition of rice husk ash (RHA) on the mechanical and microstructural properties of an ultra-high performance cement-based composite (UHPCC) was studied. The microstructure of the UHPCC was investigated using X-ray diffraction, mercury intrusion porosimetry, scanning electron microscopy and other analytical test methods. The results showed that the mechanical performance was improved with the addition of RHA. Mortars blended with 15% RHA showed the highest compressive and flexural strengths. For mortars reinforced with 3% steel fibres by volume, both flexural and compressive strengths were remarkably enhanced. The optimal content of RHA was found to be about 10–15%. The addition of RHA decreased the hydration heat evolution rate of the cementitious composites, but the hydration process was brought forward due to the addition of RHA. As a result of calcium hydroxide consumption through the pozzolanic reaction of the RHA, the interface was strengthened with an increase in curing time and the microstructure of the mortar containing RHA blended was denser than that of mortar without RHA. The high pozzolanic reaction and the filler effect of RHA contributed to a finer pore structure and a decrease in porosity.
Experimental study on preventing expanded polystyrene concrete segregation
Authors: You Quan , Miao Linchang , Li Chao , Hu Shengkun , Fang Huanglei
Published: June 2018

The hydrophobicity of expanded polystyrene beads means that unexpected segregation of expanded polystyrene concretes can occur. In order to determine the segregation of expanded polystyrene concretes, a class of tests was conducted, and relevant indices including strength, fluidity and the extent of segregation were measured. Compressive strengths in different directions and different volume fractions were employed to define the strength anisotropy index and the segregation index, respectively. The fluidity test results indicated that the miniature slump cone test could be performed as a substitute for the standard slump cone for practical and economic reasons. The fluidity had larger impact on the strength of expanded polystyrene concretes compared with plain concretes. In addition, an approximately linear correlation was found between the segregation and the strength anisotropy index. By comprehensive inspection of the fluidity, strength and extent of segregation of expanded polystyrene concretes, the most reasonable mixture proportion was found. By considering segregation inhibition in the design of mixture proportions, the proposed experimental method can be used in engineering practice relating to expanded polystyrene concretes.
Effects of ultrasonic agitation time on wet chemical synthesis of nanohydroxyapatite
Authors: Tozar Ali , Karahan Ismail Hakkı
Published: June 2018

In this study, the synthesis of the nanohydroxyapatite (nHAp) powders by way of wet chemical method is reported. Calcium nitrate tetrahydrate (Ca(NO3)2·H2O) and dibasic ammonium phosphate ((NH4)2HPO4) were used as calcium and phosphorus sources, respectively. The effect of ultrasonic agitation time has been systematically studied between 30 and 150 min at the temperature of 70°C. Structural, morphological, spectroscopic and thermal analysis have been carried out by way of X-ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy and thermogravimetry–differential scanning calorimetry analysis. It is shown that the ultrasonic agitation conditions significantly affect the crystallite size, dislocation density and microstrain of the powders calculated by way of the Debye–Scherrer formula. Thermal analyses reveal that the ultrasonic agitation treatment has a very beneficial effect on the fabrication of the powders by the wet chemical method due to the inhibition of physisorbed and chemisorbed water and the calcium deficiency. Magnetic stirring treatment is found to lead to larger nHAp nanoparticle agglomerations due to more water absorption. The results offer a promising route towards the scalable synthesis of the pure-phase nHAp powders with controllable structural and morphological properties, which could be useful in various types of basic and applied research on HAp-based materials.
An integral flat arch bridge
Authors: Stroscio Riccardo , Lake Nicholas , Toms Cyrus , Pettifer Stephen
Published: June 2018

This paper presents the design and construction of an integral bridge that provides road access over the River Nene in Northampton (UK), to the new university campus. The client's aspirations and planning requirements mandated retention of the existing landscape character while also creating an appropriate landmark. This resulted in an elegant 50 m span flat arch structure with only 3·6 m rise. The awarded tender design proposed an alternative steel–concrete composite solution that is integral with its abutments and includes stiffened counterfort walls. A comparison between several alternative articulations arrangements considered for the rigid frame structure is presented. Sensitivity-based analysis between geotechnical and structural models for the derivation of support stiffness and resulting global load distribution between deck and piled foundations relating specifically to the flat arch arrangement is also described. Finally, a discussion of construction sequence, tolerance considerations, and temporary works for stability in the temporary condition is also presented.
Experience of horizontal directional coring in Hong Kong
Authors: Boden Alan , Bridges Guy , Kin Chor , Xu Jia
Published: June 2018

Horizontal directional coring is an advanced ground investigation technique which can provide continuous core sampling along a non-linear trajectory, which makes it particularly useful for tunnelling projects. It has been used successfully on several tunnel ground investigations in Hong Kong, with over 15 km of directional cores drilled in the last 10 years. This paper summarises the development of horizontal directional coring techniques and discusses the valuable experience gained and lessons learned from projects in Hong Kong.
Meeting Report: SANCOLD Conference 2017
Authors: Williamson Tracey
Published: June 2018

The 2017 SANCOLD Conference was held in Centurion, South Africa from 15 to 17 November. The BDS Chair attended the various technical sessions, a workshop on dam safety issues, the Annual General Meeting, the Young Persons Forum and social events. A summary description of the event is included within this report.
Arguments for a co-production approach to community flood protection
Authors: Fitton Sarah L , Moncaster Alice M
Published: June 2018

With more intense rainfall and sea level rises predicted, an increasing number of people across the UK are vulnerable to flood events. The government has pledged more funding for flood infrastructure planning, design and management. However, schemes tend to focus on technical solutions, with the social impact, including needs and concerns of the local community, seen as secondary. Based on a detailed examination of three case studies in England, this paper identifies the mechanisms through which current processes restrict industry professionals from considering and incorporating the social perspective, often despite seemingly effective community engagement. The paper argues for an approach that incorporates social concerns alongside technical ones. Rather than ‘community engagement’, it is argued that ‘co-production’, in which lay communities work alongside technical experts in the design of flood risk alleviation schemes, would enable a final outcome that is both more socially acceptable and more technically successful.
Draining Doha: a sustainable approach to water management in an arid region
Authors: Jones Paul , Kelly Timothy Paul
Published: June 2018

This paper describes the development of surface water drainage infrastructure to serve Doha, the capital of Qatar, a relatively young and developing city in the Middle East. It discusses the impact of increased urbanisation on flood risk, and the strategies developed and used to provide sustainable drainage systems, and surface and groundwater reuse on a scale not usually seen in a dense urban environment.
Mass timber in the circular economy: paradigm in practice?
Authors: Campbell Adrian
Published: June 2018

Mass timber products such as cross-laminated timber have increased in popularity in the past decades. Their relative novelty, however, means that there is little actual experience of what happens to the products at end of life. Despite promoting the use of natural capital, biotic materials are not often covered in discussions on construction in the circular economy. Equally, it is unclear what model is most appropriate for construction to incorporate circular thinking. Different actions for circularity are reviewed against sustainable construction ambitions, and a simple model with basic circular actions is proposed as a means to review mass timber construction. Suggestions for how to adapt mass timber systems to include circular methods are presented, including design for combined manufacture and assembly and disassembly, the identification of future markets, improving the durability of timber buildings and acknowledging the wider system value of forestry.
Comparison of project performance assessed by infrastructure sustainability rating tools
Authors: Griffiths Kerry A , Boyle Carol , Henning Theunis F P
Published: June 2018

Following the extensive use of sustainability rating tools for buildings, similar tools for civil infrastructure have emerged. This study presents four industry-based infrastructure sustainability rating tools – Ceequal, Envision, Infrastructure Sustainability and Greenroads – and analyses how they assess and recognise performance. While other studies have examined the content and coverage of such tools, this study focuses on tool application – assessing a significant New Zealand-based state highway project by using each tool and comparing the results. The study explores biases within the tools and examines how each tool assesses and rewards projects and encourages project teams. The results show clear differences in the scores and award levels achieved from the same project practices and outcomes, thus encouraging infrastructure owners and tool users to challenge rating tool benchmarks and labels for sustainability. These findings highlight the dangers of direct comparisons across rating tools and the need for greater transparency in project-level sustainability reporting.
Application of information modelling for sustainable urban-poor housing in India
Authors: Gavali Hindavi R , Ralegaonkar Rahul V
Published: June 2018

Building information modelling (BIM) is one of the effective ways for deciding the suitable building orientation and envelope that controls project cost, time and energy. The present paper elaborates the application of BIM for sustainable urban-poor housing. A systematic methodology is briefly discussed that considers the design challenges and suitable masonry products for achieving sustainability. The designed methodology is applied to a single-storey urban-poor house in a representative location in India. With reference to current practice, eight orientations and seven masonry options in all were analysed for achieving sustainable building design. A zero-degree orientation with the analysed suitable masonry option (recycled paper mill waste brick) resulted in reductions in the embodied energy, cost and peak cooling load of 13, 16 and 19%, respectively, over the base case.
Thermo-hydro-mechanical coupling analysis of a thermal pile
Authors: Rui Yi , Soga Kenichi
Published: June 2018

The thermo-hydro-mechanical (THM) response of a 23 m long thermal pile previously tested at Lambeth College in London, UK was investigated by conducting a THM finite-element analysis using an advanced thermoelastoplastic constitutive model. It was found that the thermal conductivity of the soil and the reloading/swelling stiffness parameter of the model largely govern the behaviour of the thermal pile when the simulated results were compared to the measured data for pile head displacement, distributed strain inside the pile and ground temperatures during the cooling and heating cycles. The pile head movement is mainly affected by the thermal expansion coefficient of the pile concrete as well as the location of the neutral point, where the shaft resistance direction changes from the mechanical loading only condition. Additionally, the results show that the thermally generated axial stresses in the pile are governed by the magnitude of soil stiffness along the pile depth as well as by the relative values of thermally induced expansion/contraction of three materials (concrete, soil skeleton and pore water). The effect of the thermally induced plastic behaviour of the soil was limited in the Lambeth College case due to the heavily overconsolidated nature of London Clay.
Internal stability assessment of granular soils using the Kezdi and Sherard methods
Authors: Ni Xiaodong , Dallo Yousif A. H. , Wang Yuan
Published: June 2018

The methods proposed by Kezdi' and Sherard' are widely used to assess the internal stability of granular soils due to their simplicity, although their accuracy is questionable, especially for widely graded soils. A modification was thus developed to increase the accuracy of these methods while keeping them as straightforward as possible. A simple graphical method is proposed to determine the possible range of delimiting particle size and then the Kezdi and Sherard methods are applied only to this range. The proposed modification was verified with a large number of experimental test results.
Large-scale direct shear tests on sand-contaminated ballast
Authors: TolouKian Ali Reza , Sadeghi Javad , Zakeri Jabbar-Ali
Published: June 2018

Significant parts of railway lines in most of the Middle East and Asian countries are in sandy and desert areas. Contamination of tracks (in particular the ballast layer) caused by frequent sand storms in the desert is an important challenge for railway industries. Despite a large number of reported railway accidents caused by the loss of shear strength in the contaminated ballast layer, there is a lack of sufficient studies on the effect of sand contamination on ballast shear strength. In response to this need, extensive laboratory tests on clean and sand-contaminated ballasts were conducted, using a large-scale direct shear test machine designed and constructed in this research. Ballast samples with different dosages of sand contamination were tested. The results obtained are discussed leading to a better understanding of ballast behaviour when contaminated with various amounts of sand. The results show that sand contamination reduces the shear strength and angle of effective shearing resistance of the ballast. The critical percentage of ballast contamination, after which the ballast faces substantial reduction in its mechanical properties, was derived. The results obtained have improved the current ballast maintenance approach by providing the possibility of a more accurate planning of ballast cleaning and renewals.
A unified analytical solution for elastic–plastic stress analysis of a cylindrical cavity in Mohr–Coulomb materials under biaxial in situ stresses
Authors: Zhuang P.-Z. , Yu H.-S.
Published: June 2018

This paper presents a unified analytical solution for elastoplastic stress analysis around a cylindrical cavity under biaxial in situ stresses during both loading and unloading. The two-dimensional solution is obtained by assuming that the connected plastic zone is statically determinate and using the complex variable theory in the elastic analysis. It is shown that the biaxial state of initial stresses applies significant influences on the stress distribution around the inner cavity. Under biaxial far-field stresses, the asymptotic conformal mapping function predicts that the outer boundary of the statically determinate plastic zone is in oval shape in Mohr–Coulomb materials. The major axis of the elastic–plastic interface lies in the direction of the greatest far-field compression pressure during loading, whereas it is along the perpendicular direction during unloading. The loading and unloading solutions are validated by comparing with the results of numerical simulation and other analytical solutions. In the assumed states, the new solution provides an accurate analytical method to capture the biaxial in situ stress effect in the prediction of the plastic failure zone and calculations of the static stress field and the elastic displacement field around a cylindrical cavity within an infinite medium.
Pressure infiltration characteristics of bentonite slurry
Authors: Xu T. , Bezuijen A.
Published: June 2018

Infiltration of pressurised bentonite slurry into saturated sand has been investigated in two laboratory set-ups. The first set-up is comparable to set-ups described in the literature for slurry infiltration tests. The second one results in a hydraulic gradient in the soil comparable to what can be expected in front of a tunnel-boring machine. The different characteristics of mud spurt and filter cake formation were clearly identified in the experimental results. The transition from mud spurt to filter cake formation depends on the infiltration velocity according to the literature. However, this was not found in these tests.
Inverse modelling of leakage through earth dams (case study: Baft dam, Iran)
Authors: Vaezinejad Seyed Mahmood , Marandi Seyed Morteza , Salajegheh Eysa
Published: June 2018

A new combined method for the inverse modelling of leakage from the body and foundation of earth dams considering a transient flow model is introduced in this paper. Reaching a unique result, an objective function that simultaneously employs the time series of hydraulic heads and observations of flow rates has been defined. An inclusive finite-element model that considers all the construction stages of an earth dam has been created and then orthogonal design, back-propagation artificial neural networks and a genetic algorithm have been used to do inverse modelling. The proposed method has been employed for the inverse modelling of leakage in Baft dam in Kerman, Iran. Hydraulic conductivities of different parts of the dam have been investigated for two distinct predefined cases, and in both cases satisfactory results have been obtained. The fitting results show the applicability of the suggested method in inverse modelling of real large-scale problems, which not only decreases the computation cost but also increases reliability and efficiency in such problems.
Briefing: Improving erosion resistance of sand using nano-silica additive
Authors: Zomorodian Seyed Mohammad Ali , Soleymani Armina , O'Kelly Brendan C.
Published: June 2018

This briefing paper examines the improvement in the hydraulic erosion resistance of medium silica sand achieved using 1–4% nano-silica (NS) additive. The erodibility of the different soil blends (prepared by mixing NS solutions prepared at required concentrations with the dry test sand) was investigated at bench scale by testing compacted treated sand specimens using the erosion-function apparatus. The NS addition produced a viscous gel property for the soil mixtures, allowing the mobilisation of an effective cohesion (surface bond strength). A 1·5% NS addition was identified as the optimum amount in terms of the greatest erosion resistance for the particular sand investigated; that is, a 92% reduction in the erodibility coefficient value and an approximately six-fold increase in the critical shear stress value were achieved relative to the untreated sand. Further, these improvements in the erosion-resistance properties of the compacted sand–NS mixtures were achieved within a significantly shorter time period (i.e. 1 d specimen curing period adopted in the current investigation) when compared with that typically required for traditional cement and lime additives.
Analysis of the coupled electro-osmotic and mechanical consolidation in clayey soils
Authors: Gargano Sara , Lirer Stefania , Flora Alessandro
Published: June 2018

Electrokinetic (EK) treatment is a possible attractive way to speed up the consolidation of fine-grained dredged sediments. The effectiveness of this method depends on the complex physical–chemical interaction between soil particles, interstitial fluid and pollutants. This paper presents the experimental laboratory results obtained by inducing mechanical and EK consolidation in a fine-grained dredged material. Then, a finite-difference numerical code implemented by the authors able to solve the large and small strain consolidation equations (Lassec1), including the electro-osmotic flow, is described along with the theoretical simplifications adopted and the calibration procedure required. The experimental results have been numerically simulated, showing the ability of Lassec1 to reproduce the coupled mechanical and electrical consolidation processes, highlighting that under very low stress levels it is necessary to take into account the highly non-linear soil behaviour, and thus the large strain theory is needed to obtain a reliable prediction of the consolidation process. With this aim, special laboratory devices are necessary for a good calibration of the permeability function and of the stress–strain relationship at very low stress levels.
Harnessing energy: an alternative way to view the management of highway assets
Authors: Williams David
Published: June 2018

Highway networks form the arteries of a country, allowing goods and people to flow, thereby creating the heartbeat of the economy. In the UK, the level of funding available to continue to maintain this network to a high standard is set to reduce dramatically. This paper explores the potential for energy to be harnessed from the forces that the network is exposed to everyday, solar, wind, rainwater and kinetic energy from vehicles, to provide additional funding to local authorities while also providing a potential solution to the trilemma of energy issues facing the UK: providing cheap, clean and renewable energy. The paper includes a set of recommendations follow to bring this technology from the prototype phase to mass roll-out.
Enhancing value for money in public procurement of Northern Ireland construction projects
Authors: McArdle Gary , Gunning Joseph Gerard
Published: June 2018

The purpose of this research was to evaluate public procurement in Northern Ireland (NI) – more specifically, the achievement of value for money (VfM) in public construction projects. Other areas assessed were factors detrimental to creating VfM, subeconomic/abnormally low tendering and the potential impact of Brexit in NI. The methodology included primary and secondary data collection. Secondary data, through a literature review, identified gaps in knowledge in the study area. Primary data were collated using a mixed-methods approach. The qualitative research involved six semi-structured interviews to collate the data and use of the Decision Explorer software program to analyse these. Quantitative research was in the form of 81 questionnaire responses, analysed using the SPSS software program. The findings highlight influences that create VfM in public procurement, along with barriers to achieving VfM. Direct and indirect factors that contribute to public value are also established. Additionally, the potential impact of Brexit on VfM was ascertained. The research identifies clear implications for practice, with a view of increasing VfM through public procurement procedures. An insight is provided into public procurement in NI from the perspective of both vendor (public bodies) and purchaser (contractors) – an area that appears to be under-represented in current literature.
Application of building information modelling in planning of future use of underused areas
Authors: Faltejsek Michal , Szeligova Natalie , Vojvodikova Barbara
Published: June 2018

The use of building information modelling (BIM), as a process throughout the life cycle of a building, can be found in all types of buildings. Specific phases of buildings’ life are brownfields, buildings that are dilapidated, abandoned and no longer serving their purpose. These buildings are not included in the classical life cycle of buildings because such options are not considered in advance. Many buildings, however, become brownfields for various reasons, and these buildings also need to be addressed in urban engineering. An information model is a realistic representation of the building in a digital form on the basis of graphical and descriptive information data, which unifies into a common digital database and works with all relevant information. The principles of BIM can be used to solve the problem of brownfields in urban areas and to apply the results obtained in the process of decision making and realisation of regeneration. Particular simulations over a digital model include, for example, how impacted are structures exposed to strong wind conditions or the impact of the surrounding area on the wind flow through the site and the spreading of pollution or contamination to the surrounding area.
Spatial distribution of seismic responses in tall buildings
Authors: Emami Ali R. , Halabian Amir M.
Published: June 2018

Seismic design of tall buildings is mostly achieved by a performance-based approach followed by a series of deformation- and force-based response assessments. This approach does not include explicit quantification of ductility or damage induced to structures. The aim of this study is therefore to propose an alternative seismic design method for tall buildings by introducing the spatial distribution of the ductility and damage index. The method comprises overall response assessment considering seismic directionality effects in the estimation of critical responses polarised along non-principal planar directions. Height-wise response distributions can also be studied if the spatial distribution formulation is extended in terms of inter-storey demand parameters. A case study was done on a 42-storey building with concrete core wall dual system by conducting multi-direction pushover and non-linear response history analyses. Regression analyses indicated up to 35% and 40% increase of the critical responses due to the directionality effects on planar and vertical response distributions.