bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Genomic Medicine: New Frontiers and New Challenges
Authors: Pasic Maria D , Samaan Sara , Yousef George M 
Published: January 2013

BACKGROUND
The practice of personalized medicine has made large strides since the introduction of high-throughput technologies and the vast improvements in computational biotechnology. The personalized-medicine approach to cancer management holds promise for earlier disease detection, accurate prediction of prognosis, and better treatment options; however, the early experience with personalized medicine has revealed important concerns that need to be addressed before research findings can be translated to the bedside.

CONTENT
We discuss several emerging “practical” or “focused” applications of personalized medicine. Molecular testing can have an important positive impact on health and disease management in a number of ways, and the list of specific applications is evolving. This list includes improvements in risk assessment, disease prevention, identification of new disease-related mutations, accurate disease classification based on molecular signatures, selection of patients for enrollment in clinical trials, and development of new targeted therapies, especially for metastatic tumors that are refractory to treatment. Several challenges remain to be addressed before genomics information can be applied successfully in the routine clinical management of cancers. Further improvements and investigations are needed in data interpretation, extraction of actionable items, cost-effectiveness, how to account for patient heterogeneity and ethnic variation, and how to handle the risk of “incidental findings” in genetic testing.

SUMMARY
It is now clear that personalized medicine will not immediately provide a permanent solution for patient management and that further refinement in the applications of personalized medicine will be needed to address and focus on specific issues.
Application of Laser Microscopy for Studying Crack Characteristics of Fine-Grained Soils
Authors: Uday K. V. , Singh D. N. 
Published: January 2013

Abstract
Most of the studies dealing with cracking characteristics of the fine-grained soils focus on establishing the influence of various factors affecting cracking, after effects of cracking, and cracking patterns. Mathematical models have also been developed based on the experimental results, from these studies, to estimate time of initiation of the crack, water content at this instant, and the depth up to which these cracks propagate. However, validation of these parameters based on the real life measurements has not yet been demonstrated. In this situation, resorting to laser microscopy to capture cracking characteristics, particularly the depth of crack propagation of fine-grained soils, appears to be quite useful. This technical note deals with details of the application of a laser microscope which has been employed to study cracking characteristics of the fine-grained soils. This study has been found to be quite useful in correlating dimensions of the crack with each other and its volume.
Shear Strength Behavior of Cement/Lime-Solidified Dunkirk Sediments by Fall Cone Tests and Vane Shear Tests
Authors: Wang DongXing , Zentar Rachid , Abriak Nor Edine , Xu WeiYa 
Published: January 2013

Abstract
An attempt has been made to use the fall cone tests and the laboratory vane shear tests for measuring the undrained shear strength of cement/lime-solidified sediments from Dunkirk Port in France. The results of the fall cone tests and the laboratory vane tests performed on Dunkirk sediments are discussed. First, the relationship between the vane shear strength and the water content is explored. Second, the relationship between the depth of cone penetration and the water content is studied. Third, the relationship between the shear strength by the fall cone test and the depth of cone penetration is evaluated. Fourth, the relationship between the shear strength by the fall cone test and the water content is investigated. Finally, the comparison of undrained shear strength performed by the fall cone test and the vane shear test is performed.
Laboratory Evaluation of Coefficient of Radial Consolidation Based on Pore-Water-Pressure Dissipation and Settlement
Authors: Indraratna Buddhima , Kianfar Kourosh , Rujikiatkamjorn Cholachat 
Published: January 2013

Abstract
Modified and standard Rowe consolidation cells were employed to investigate the behaviour of soft clays during vacuum assisted radial consolidation. Degree of consolidation (DOC) and the back calculated value of coefficient of radial consolidation (ch) based on measured settlement and excess pore-water-pressure (uw) dissipation curves were compared. The DOC and (ch) based on pore water pressures are shown to be less than those based on settlements. The vacuum pressure-total surcharge ratio (VSR) is found to be an important parameter controlling the rate of the consolidation. Moreover, the coefficient of radial consolidation (ch) based on conventional oedometer testing could not accurately predict the consolidation behaviour of soft soils under varying VSR. Finally, a semi-empirical model incorporating the relationship between VSR and a modified coefficient of radial consolidation is introduced.
An In-Depth Comparison of cv Values Determined Using Common Curve-Fitting Techniques
Authors: Lovisa Julie , Sivakugan Nagaratnam 
Published: January 2013

Abstract
The coefficient of consolidation (cv) is traditionally determined by fitting observed settlement–time data to the theoretical average degree of consolidation versus time factor relationship developed by Terzaghi. Although it is widely accepted that different curve-fitting methods can produce different values of cv, very few comparisons have been conducted to assess the validity of these methods. In this study, the settlement–time data gathered from conventional oedometer tests conducted on three different clays were analysed using three common curve-fitting techniques: the Casagrande log-time method, Taylor’s root-time method, and the Cour inflection point method. A new method proposed by the authors for calculating cv, which abandons the traditional curve-fitting approach in favour of a computational-based approach, was also used to compare these results. To assess the validity of each cv value, the experimental results were compared with the theoretical average degree of consolidation curve and quantified using the root-mean-square (rms) error. The efficacy of the designated curve-fitting method was found to significantly depend upon the “shape” of the settlement–time curve generated during testing. For example, in this study, clay containing a significant fraction of fine sand often resulted in settlement–time curves that exhibited no clear inflection point, which made analysis using the Cour method very difficult. In general, the Taylor method predicted larger values of cv than the Casagrande method, and correspondingly smaller rms errors. The variance method proposed by the authors resulted in values of cv that more closely matched those generated using the Casagrande method. However, smaller rms errors were achieved using the variance method, which suggests that this technique may produce a more realistic estimate of cv than the Casagrande method.
An Integrated Seismic Monitoring System for a Full-Scale Embedded Retaining Wall
Authors: Rainieri Carlo , Fabbrocino Giovanni , Santucci de Magistris Filippo 
Published: January 2013

Abstract
Over the last 50 years, data from laboratory tests and post-earthquake reconnaissance have been used to gain knowledge about the dynamic and seismic behavior of geotechnical structures and to improve analysis and design procedures. The scarcity of reconnaissance data has pointed out the need for full-scale and near full-scale tests for research purposes in earthquake engineering. Structural health monitoring (SHM) systems have been applied to different kinds of structures, but although static control of displacements and pressures is quite common, dynamic monitoring is fairly limited in geotechnical engineering. In the present paper, an integrated structural and geotechnical monitoring program aimed at filling this knowledge gap is described with reference to a real flexible retaining wall. The objective of the research is to establish a combination of sensors, numerical analyses, and data processing procedures to turn the monitored retaining wall into a smart geotechnical structure. Attention is herein focused on two aspects related to the implementation of the monitoring system and the dynamic identification of the soil-structure system. Specifically, the paper describes an example of seismic monitoring system for full-scale flexible retaining walls based on sensors embedded in the reinforced concrete piles. Installation details are given together with a description of the monitoring system architecture in its current stage of implementation. Issues and requirements for the measurement chain are discussed, taking into account possible installation drawbacks (i.e., shocks) and the opportunity to monitor the response under operational conditions. Furthermore, a novel and successful application of operational modal analysis (OMA) to such a complex geotechnical system is reported. It allows for the identification of the fundamental modes of the soil-wall system in operation (but before the erection of a building on the excavated side). Implementation of the monitoring system prototype is still in progress, but some interesting results have already been outlined.
A Modified Osmotic Direct Shear Apparatus for Testing Unsaturated Soils
Authors: Hamidi A. , Habibagahi G. , Ajdari M. 
Published: January 2013

Abstract
Most hydro-mechanical models for unsaturated soil models require shear strength characteristics of the soil in order to determine the pertinent model parameters. Moreover, one needs to know the shear strength of unsaturated soils when dealing with stability problems in engineering practices. Because matric suction affects the shear strength of unsaturated soils, a suitable apparatus must be capable of imposing and/or measuring suction during tests. Shear tests on unsaturated soils are usually performed using the axis translation technique. This method covers a low range of matric suctions that corresponds to relatively high degrees of saturation for fine grained soils. Thus, it is essential to develop new techniques to extend the range of suctions for these soils. In this study, a modified direct shear device is introduced that uses the osmotic method to impose the desired matric suction. A polyethylene glycol (PEG) solution is circulated all around the bottom of the soil sample to impose the suction, and a semi-permeable membrane is introduced between the soil and the PEG solution that permits water swap but prevents the PEG macromolecules from crossing the membrane. Using this technique, the suction is controlled and kept constant during the test. The special shear box design described in this paper minimizes the potential for membrane rupture during the test. Shear stress, as well as the vertical and horizontal displacement, is recorded using an auto-logging device. The suitability of the apparatus to perform direct shear tests at relatively high suction values is investigated via tests carried out on Shiraz silty clay. In these tests, soil specimens are subjected to suctions of up to 800 kPa during shearing. The results indicate that the shear strength and shear induced dilation of the soil samples increase with suction.
Digital Image Analysis of Distribution of Immiscible Fluids in Natural Porous Media
Authors: Montoro Marcos A. , Francisca Franco M. 
Published: January 2013

Abstract
This article proposes a method of digital image analysis to monitor immiscible flow in soil samples. Four different natural soil samples were studied: coarse, medium, fine, and silty sand. Paraffin oil and a sodium fluorescein solution were used as the displaced and displacing phase, respectively. Immiscible flow tests were performed in a Plexiglas cell and monitored by means of digital image analysis and direct volumetric measurement. The images were processed to obtain gray levels at different stages during the tests. Saturation of paraffin oil was then computed from the gray level and a linear regression equation was developed for each soil tested. The proposed method enabled valuable information to be obtained of the processes that take place at the face of the samples during liquid displacement and in the middle of the samples at the end of the tests. This procedure was very effective for analyzing different flow patterns, isolating areas with trapped paraffin oil, and to determining the ganglia size distribution at different stages of the immiscible flow tests. The results indicated that particle size and microstructure heterogeneities determine the flow pattern features observed during the immiscible displacement of paraffin oil by water.
A Drying Cake Method for Measuring Suction-Stress Characteristic Curve, Soil–Water-Retention Curve, and Hydraulic Conductivity Function
Authors: Lu Ning , Kaya Murat 
Published: January 2013

Abstract
A drying cake (DC) method is invented for measurement of the suction-stress characteristic curve (SSCC), the soil–water-retention curve (SWRC), and the hydraulic conductivity function (HCF) of soils under drying conditions. The DC method employs particle image velocimetry (PIV) technique to acquire digital still images of the radial displacement field of a disk-shaped soil specimen during drying, while the moisture content of the specimen is recorded using an electronic balance. A linear elasticity theory employing the suction-stress-based effective stress in both total and incremental forms is developed to calculate suction stress, suction, and hydraulic conductivity from the moisture-content-dependent displacement fields; thus permitting definition of the SSCC, SWRC, and HCF of a soil. Five different soils, representing a wide spectrum of soil variety from pure sand, to silt and organic silt, to non-swelling and swelling clays are used to illustrate and test the principle and theory, the validity, and applicability of the DC method. Established measurement techniques for the constitutive relationships of unsaturated soils, such as the Tempe cell, constant flow, transient water release and imbibition, and shear-strength relationships were used to validate the DC method. The results from the DC method were found to compare well with those techniques. Repeated DC tests confirm that the results from the test are unique. It is shown that the DC method is superior to other existing methods in: (1) providing simple and accurate data acquisition (involving taking sequential digital still images and monitoring specimen’s moisture content by an electronic balance without use of suction or moisture probe), (2) facilitating fast testing time (in less than one week for the primary drying path of the SSCC, SWRC, and HCF), (3) permitting concurrent measurement of the SSCC, SWRC, and HCF by using one soil sample, and (4) its applicability to all types of soils under wide suction and moisture-content conditions.
Development of a Large-Scale Infiltration Column for Studying the Hydraulic Conductivity of Unsaturated Fouled Ballast
Authors: Duong T. V. , Trinh V. N. , Cui Y. J. , Tang A. M. , Calon N. 
Published: January 2013

Abstract
To study the hydraulic behavior of fouled ballast, an infiltration column 600 mm high and 300 mm in diameter was developed. Five time domain reflectometer (TDR) sensors and five tensiometers were installed at various levels, allowing the measurement of volumetric water content and matric suction, respectively. The material studied was fouled ballast that was formed in the railway track-bed by penetration of fine-grained soil into the ballast. This material is characterized by a high contrast of size between the largest and the smallest particles. During the test, three stages were followed: saturation, drainage, and evaporation. Based on the test results, the water-retention curve and the unsaturated hydraulic conductivity were determined. The quality of the results shows the capacity of this large-scale infiltration column in studying the unsaturated hydraulic properties of such fouled ballast.
Application Research on Anti-Cracking Agent for Semi-Rigid Base
Authors: Luo Hui , Zhu Hong-Ping , Zi Jian-Ming , Wang Ying , Lu Yong-Fa 
Published: January 2013

Abstract
Semi-rigid base materials have been widely used in recent years. However, this material is easy to crack, which adversely affects the performance of the pavement. In this paper, an innovative reclaimed phosphogypsum-based material is used as an anti-cracking agent added in the semi-rigid base. Several laboratory tests and field observations have been taken to evaluate the potential of the material that we are proposing to be used as an anti-cracking agent. The shrinkage tests show that the shrink space of the road base caused by the variations of the temperature and humidity has decreased dramatically because of the involvement of the anti-cracking agent. The influence of the delay on the molding time and on the strength of gravel mixtures is also analyzed, and the results show that the anti-cracking agent has a slow setting performance. By adding an anti-cracking agent into the semi-rigid base material, early strength of the material is enhanced, curing period is shortened, and lasting quality is improved. The continuous construction of the base and asphalt pavement are technically feasible in the testing road because of the excellent expansion, densification, and water-resistance characteristics of the anti-cracking agent. As a result, cracks in the pavement can be retarded or lightened, and, thus, the pavement service life can be extended.
Functionally Graded Bronze/Tungsten-Carbide Castings: A Characterization and Property Study
Authors: Brown Lloyd , Joyce Peter 
Published: January 2013

Abstract
The contact resistance and wear behavior of electrical contact surfaces is a function of hardness, applied load, and material constituents. This work presents a characterization of the mechanical and physical properties of conducting alloys fabricated as functionally graded metal matrix composites (MMCs), in particular, tungsten-carbide-filled bronze. Tungsten-carbide reinforcing particles are attractive in this application for their high hardness and concomitant wear resistance. When used as bushings, bearings, and sleeve materials, bronze has improved wear performance with the addition of tungsten-carbide particles, which improves the hardness of the contact surface. Bronze might also be attractive as a potential electrical conductor when a need exists for high-strength, wear-resistant contact surfaces as found in circuit breakers and sliding electrical contacts. An overview of two types of MMC production methods, sedimentation and centrifugal casting, is presented. MMCs fabricated using the two different methods are compared and contrasted based on physical and mechanical properties. The use of centrifugal casting provides a more effective improvement in physical and mechanical properties plus significant improvement in hardness with relatively low reduction in base-material conductivity was observed. The centrifugal casting method allows for a more tailored product in terms of locating enhanced material properties within the casting.
An Evaluation Model Using Fuzzy TOPSIS and Goal Programming for TQM Consultant Selection
Authors: Liao Chin-Nung 
Published: January 2013

Abstract
There are many businesses implementing total quality management (TQM) to obtain a competitive advantage and achieve business objectives. However, few businesses have addressed external consultant selection for the successful implementation of a TQM program in business quality management. The decisions made in a TQM program usually involve several objectives or criteria, and it is often necessary to make compromises when choosing from among possibly conflicting factors. In this paper, a novel method integrates the fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (FAHP), the fuzzy technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution (TOPSIS), and multi-segment and choice goal programming (MSCGP) methods to solve TQM consultant selection problems. A real-life case study is presented to illustrate the application of the proposed method.
Behavior of Selected Warm Mix Asphalt Additive Modified Binders and Prediction of Dynamic Modulus of the Mixes
Authors: Hossain Zahid , Zaman Musharraf 
Published: January 2013

Abstract
This study evaluated the viscoelastic properties of a performance grade binder modified with different dosages of a selected wax-based warm mix asphalt (WMA) additive (WMA1). The effects of reduced rolling thin film oven (RTFO) aging on the stiffness of the WMA1-modified binder were also evaluated. The viscoelastic properties of the modified binders were then used to estimate the dynamic modulus (E*) values of the WMA mixes through time temperature superposition principles. Furthermore, the effects of a selected liquid anti-stripping agent (ASA), ASA1, on the properties of the WMA1-modified binder were investigated. It was observed that the linear viscoelastic limits of WMA1-modified binders decreased with an increasing dosage of WMA1. Reduced RTFO aging was found to have significant effects on the stiffness of the WMA1-modified binder. The Hirsch model was found to provide better approximations of the E* values than the Witczak model. The Witczak model, based on dynamic shear rheometer data, was found to significantly underestimate the E* values. Although ASA1 did not reduce the beneficial effects of WMA1, it was found to increase the E* values of the WMA mix. The findings of this study are expected to offer transportation professionals a better understanding of the evaluation of WMA binders and mixes.
Performance Evaluation of Asphalt-Rubber Stone Matrix Asphalt Mixtures with Warm Mix Asphalt Additives
Authors: Cao Weidong , Liu Shutang 
Published: January 2013

Abstract
Three kinds of warm mix asphalt (WMA) additives (Sasobit, Evotherm, and CWA) were used in asphalt-rubber stone matrix asphalt (AR-SMA) to reduce the mixing and compaction temperatures of AR-SMA mixtures. In hot mix asphalt (HMA) mixture designs with the same air voids, the compaction temperatures of AR-SMA mixtures with different WMA additives were determined. The wheel tracking test, low temperature beam bending test, and indirect tensile test were conducted in order to evaluate the high temperature performance in terms of the resistance to rutting, the low temperature performance in terms of the resistance to cracking, and the moisture susceptibility of AR-SMA mixtures with WMA additives. The results indicate that the addition of Sasobit can improve high temperature performance significantly relative to the control mixture (AR-SMA without WMA additive), whereas the other additives yield no significant differences. Three WMA additives have significant effects on low-temperature performance, but they do not significantly increase moisture susceptibility relative to the control mixture.