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Applications of Bayesian updating commonly treat soil parameters as random variables. A significant issue with this is that soil parameters are highly subjective. Therefore, using traditional parameter-based models, Bayesian analysis starts from a subjective prior and it is unclear how this may influence the overall results of a study. In this paper, Bayesian updating is combined with a data-driven method, known as CRACA (i.e., CReep And Consolidation Analysis), for predicting the settlement of embankments on soft soil. Importantly, the method directly ingests measured oedometer data and, therefore, avoids the subjectivity involved in parameter selection. Because parameters are not used, scaling factors are introduced that account uncertainty associated with the laboratory measurements and the automated interpretation process. These factors have an initial value of unity (returning the prior) and are updated in a Bayesian framework as settlement monitoring data are revealed over time to improve future forecasts. The model was applied to an embankment case history and was shown to result in a rapid improvement in the accuracy and a narrowing of the 95% confidence interval as settlement monitoring data are revealed to the model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we study the dynamic properties of spin–orbit coupling (SOC) hyperfine f =1 spinor antiferromagnetic Bose–Einstein condensates with the external magnetic field. The condensate is confined in a toroidal trap and the numerical results are obtained based on the multicomponent Gross–Pitaevskii equation. Our results show that, in the presence of SOC, the spin dynamics for zero magnetic field slows with an increase of radius of the torus. However, this process accelerates when the magnetic field is considered. In addition, in this case, the oscillation behavior is almost consistent with the considered maximum radius. In the absence of SOC, the periodicity of spin dynamics vanishes. We also compare the thermalization time for different magnetic fields and radii, which decreases considerably for nonzero magnetic fields with the increase of radius. Furthermore, our analysis suggests that for stronger magnetic field strength the density structure can be regulated. As a consequence, the condensate recovers from the necklace to an annular-shaped state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exercising women have a high prevalence of menstrual disturbances. In 2003, it was suggested that disruption in luteinizing hormone (LH) pulsatility occurs below a threshold of energy availability (EA) of 30 kcal/kg lean body mass (LBM)/day. This paper is a critical review of the evidence regarding the theory that disruptions to the reproductive axis and menstrual disturbances occur below the proposed threshold. Short-term laboratory studies demonstrated that 4–5 days of an EA below 30 kcal/kg LBM/day, induced with or without exercise, decreased serum triiodothyronine and LH pulse frequency, and increased LH pulse amplitude in sedentary, regularly menstruating women. Fewer studies have investigated downstream ovarian effects after long-term exposure to low EA. The Sargent Camp Study was the first randomized trial that induced luteal phase defects, delayed menses, and anovulation by causing weight loss (−4 ± 0.3 kg) with an abrupt increase in exercise volume for two menstrual cycles. The BioEnergetics Study was a randomized controlled trial that induced varying levels of energy deficits by manipulating energy intake and expenditure for three menstrual cycles. LH pulse frequency and triiodothyronine decreased, and 57% of women developed luteal phase defects, anovulation, and/or oligomenorrhea. An EA below 30 kcal/kg fat free mass/day increased the chance of experiencing a menstrual disturbance by 50%. However, menstrual disturbances were observed above and below that EA threshold, and changes in LH pulse frequency predicted only luteal phase defects, not oligomenorrhea or anovulation. The proposed EA threshold is not a cut-off below which menstrual disturbances occur, but represents an increased risk of experiencing menstrual disturbances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we have considered the flat Friedmann-Lemaître-Robertson-Walker (FRW) model in the framework of f(R, ∇R) gravity. We have analyzed the significance of bulk viscosity in the f(R, ∇R) gravity model to study the expansion of the universe. We have considered two bulk viscosity parameterizations and the use of power-law cosmology to constrain the model parameters H0 and q. Using the Bayesian analysis and likelihood function in conjunction with the Markov Chain Monte Carlo method, we obtained the model parameters H 0 = 70. 76732 − 0.00088 + 0.00010 and q = − 0. 6478 − 0.000075 + 0.000091 . The behaviors of energy density, bulk viscous pressure, and the effective equation of the state parameter with redshift are investigated in detail. These features demonstrate that the bulk viscosity is a valid candidate for acquiring the negative pressure needed to effectively drive the expansion of the universe. To check the validity of the f(R, ∇R) model, we also analyze the behavior of energy conditions. The adiabatic squared speed of the sound is used to test the model's stability. The Om(z) diagnostic is used in the model to identify the quintessence and phantom regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tack coat is a thin asphalt applied between the existing surface and asphalt overlay during road rehabilitation. Its coverage uniformity is vital in providing adhesive bonding between the two layers in the structure. This paper proposes a novel method for automatic uniformity inspection of tack coat coverage using images collected by drones. In this method, color thresholding is first performed to extract coarse region of the tack coat. Then, the boundaries of the tack coat are detected to refine the tack coat region by masking outliers. Next, the region of interest is processed to extract texture features using gray-level co-occurrence. Finally, the texture features are leveraged to grade the tack coat uniformity level using LightGBM. Experiments were conducted to examine the performance of the method. The resulting accuracy signifies the potential of this method in developing high-efficiency and cost-effective solutions to enhance the current tack coat inspection practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In construction, the accurate measurements are important in ensuring the quality of work delivered. Different measuring tools have been developed to help workers conduct accurate measuring. However, they may be subject to manipulation difficulties, such as the need for tap/gesture interaction. This paper proposes a novel eye gaze-aided virtual tape measure framework that provides a hands-free manner for conducting the measurements in construction. This framework consists of three components: data collection for point of interest, sensor calibration, and distance calculation. Its effectiveness is tested by measuring the dimensions of 15 common objects in laboratory and on-site environments and achieves the average absolute and relative errors of 2.4 cm and 4.8%. The absolute errors range from 0.3 to 7.3 cm. A comparison study is conducted to demonstrate its superior performance over iPhone's Measure application. The results illustrate the feasibility and potential of using the framework to enable measures for smart construction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we consider higher dimensional charged black holes to study nonperturbative corrected thermodynamics. This correction is dominant when the black hole size decreases due to the Hawking radiation. The nonperturbative correction on the black hole entropy is proportional to the exponential of the original entropy with a negative sign. We calculate some thermodynamics quantities such as the internal Helmholtz free energies, and obtain the effect of the exponential correction. We study the first law of thermodynamics and investigate how it satisfies. We also study the stability of the black hole through specific heat analysis and investigate the possible phase transition. We find a second-order phase transition that is interpreted as the unstable/stable phase transition. Then, we find a first-order phase transition that makes it unstable. Hence, the final stage of the Reissner–Nordström black holes may be an unstable phase, which means that black hole evaporation at the quantum scale. It may be a cause that we never find a black hole in accelerators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several methods are in use to record and analyze neuronal activation, each with specific advantages and challenges. New developments like the decomposition of high-density surface electromyography (HDsEMG) have enabled novel insights into discharge characteristics noninvasively in laboratory settings but face certain challenges to be applied in sports physiology in a broader scope. Several challenges can be accounted for by methodological considerations, others require further technological developments to allow this technology to be used in more applied settings. This paper aims to describe the developments of surface electromyography and identify the challenges and perspectives of HDsEMG in the context of an application in sports physiology. We further discuss methodological possibilities to overcome some of the challenges to investigate specific research questions and identify areas that require further advancements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Historically, the constructs of inclusion, diversity, equity, and access (IDEA) have not been sufficiently considered or included in population health nutrition research and practice. Consequently, current nutrition assessment benchmarks and knowledge translation tools may not accurately or adequately reflect diversity in the Canadian population or produce meaningful dietary guidance. The purpose of this current opinion paper is to introduce the population health nutrition research and practice framework and explore the current application of IDEA within this framework. Recommendations are offered to incorporate the constructs of IDEA along the continuum of future nutrition research and services to improve population nutritional health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to analyze and describe the geotechnical behavior of a piled raft foundation of a tall building (53 floors, 172.4 m high) through the monitoring of strains in the building's columns and piles, the stresses at the raft–soil interface, and the foundation settlements. Field and laboratory tests were performed, and associated with axisymmetric and three-dimensional finite element analysis to the assessment of the measured data. The monitoring of the pile strains suggests the occurrence of soil expansion, caused by the raft excavation process, up to approximately 6 months after the excavation was completed. The presence of different soil profiles under the raft, with different mechanical properties, affected the distribution of the foundation settlements and the pile loads. Initially, the average pile loads were concentrated in the perimeter elements, but, as the construction of the building evolved, they tended to become more uniform. The effect of the superstructure stiffness caused successive load redistributions in the columns, which contributed to the maintenance of the maximum angular distortion of the building within the allowable values and reduced the load difference between the piles positioned in opposite soil profiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper develops a hierarchical Bayesian model (HBM) that integrates the physical knowledge and the test data to predict the small-strain shear modulus Gmax for a target sand type. The limited target-specific data are combined with the abundant generic data through a hierarchical structure so that the variability of Gmax within one sand type and across different sand types can be captured. The hyperparameters that characterize the same underlying distribution of physical model parameters across all the sand types are first estimated from the abundant generic data. The model parameters for the new sand type are then updated as the limited site-specific data become available. The approach is illustrated using a generic database and two real examples not covered by the generic database. Multiple possible hierarchical models are compared in terms of model complexity and goodness-of-fit. The results show that the hierarchical modeling of small-strain shear modulus data is reasonable and necessary. The hierarchical model can provide less biased and more accurate predictions of Gmax compared to the commonly used complete pooling model, especially in cases where the site-specific data are quite different from the overall average of the generic database. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assessing foundation response to cyclic loading is vital when designing transport infrastructure, such as road pavements and rail tracks, as well as offshore, port, and tall tower structures. While detailed guidance is available on characterizing many soil types' cyclic behavior, relatively few studies have been reported on stiff, geologically aged, plastic clays. This paper addresses this gap in knowledge by reporting cyclic loading experiments on three natural stiff UK clays that were deposited and buried between the Jurassic Age and Eocene Epoch before geological unloading to their currently heavily over-consolidated states. High-quality samples taken at relatively shallow depths were reconsolidated to nominally in situ K0 stresses in triaxial and hollow cylinder apparatus before imposing cyclic loading. The completely stable, metastable, or unstable outcomes invoked by different levels of undrained cyclic loading are interpreted within a kinematic yielding framework that is compatible with monotonic control experiments' outcomes. The cyclic limits marking the onset of significant changes in permanent strain accumulation, pore pressure development, and stress–strain hysteresis demonstrate that the weathered Gault clay offers the lowest cyclic resistance. The experiments show that energy considerations provide a promising way of evaluating undrained pore pressure generation and stiffness degradation. They also provide a basis for developing cyclic constitutive models and analysis procedures for cyclic foundation design in stiff, high-OCR, plastic clay strata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of field tests performed to investigate the installation effects of pre-bored grouted planted (PGP) pile in deep clayey soil. The variation of horizontal soil displacements, excess pore water pressures and lateral soil pressures was measured in the PGP pile installation process. The test results show that the drilling and grouting process induced large horizontal soil displacements in the soil within a radial distance of 2 d (d is pile diameter), and the maximum horizontal soil displacements induced by the drilling and grouting process were smaller than 15.9 mm when the radial distance reached 4–5 d. Moreover, the horizontal soil displacements decreased along the soil layer depth, as the superficial soil layers were of small deformation modulus and lateral soil pressure. The drilling process brought large excess pore water pressures in the soil when the radial distance was less than 3 d, and the excess pore water pressures induced by the drilling stage were all less than 55 kPa when the radial distance reached 4–6 d. The drilling process also induced some lateral soil pressure increases in the soil within a radial distance of 3 d, while the measured maximum lateral soil pressure increases were smaller than 10.9 kPa when the radial distance increased to 4 d. On the whole, the excess pore water pressures and lateral soil pressure increases induced by the installation of PGP pile were much smaller than that induced by the installation of driven PHC pile. Moreover, the horizontal soil displacements, excess pore water pressures and lateral soil pressure increases induced by the installation of PGP pile all recovered rapidly after the installation of pile, as the cemented soil in the pile hole was in liquid state after the drilling and grouting stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The strength and stiffness of a composite rockmass (intact material, defects, joints, bedding, etc.) are primary inputs for the engineering analysis of rock slopes and underground excavations. The Geological Strength Index (GSI) has served rock engineering for three decades as a rockmass assessment system based on the blockiness of the rockmass and discontinuity condition. GSI is used to factor the Hoek–Brown strength envelope for intact rock to represent jointed rockmasses in conventional equivalent-continuum numerical modelling. Modern numerical tools can represent networks of discrete (explicit) structure with assigned discontinuity properties. This provides an opportunity to compare explicit structural modelling with the conventional implicit equivalent-continuum approach. In this paper, explicit structural models are developed using elasto-plastic (constant-strength) constitutive models for intact rock and realistic parametric ranges for explicit structure properties. Explicit model results are compared to equivalent-continuum results, validating the classical implicit approach while also identifying key limitations. Explicit models with post-yield weakening of the intact and structural elements are then developed and compared to post-yield weakening implicit models that use post-yield dilation and empirical relationships between peak and residual GSI. The results provide guidance for practical modelling in strain-weakening rockmasses, including recommendations for post-yield dilation in the traditional implicit approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maskwio'mi (Mi'kmaw language for "oil made from birch bark") is a traditional topical skin medicine of the Mi'kmaq people of Atlantic Canada and is produced in a torrefaction process by heating birch bark (Betula papyrifera, paper birch) inside a metal container in a fire. The resulting viscous, oily mixture is traditionally mixed with goose fat or bear grease to create a topical salve that is subsequently applied to affected skin areas. When birch bark is exposed to high temperatures, pyrolytic chemical processes produce a complex mixture of pharmacologically active compounds, including potentially harmful side products such as ortho-, meta-, and para-cresol. This study discusses the qualitative and quantitative GC-MS analysis of cresols found in maskwio'mi and the challenges of the complex organic matrix. Using caffeine as an internal standard, ortho-, meta-, and para-cresol in birch bark extract were determined to be in the approximate order of 50–1500 ppm range with 3.24 ± 0.09 × 102 ng mg−1 (324 ppm), 8.7 ± 1.0 × 102 ng mg−1 (87 ppm), and 12.4 ± 1.6 × 102 ng mg−1 (1240 ppm), respectively, and thus suitable by Health Canada and FDA cosmetics regulation standards when the extract is co-formulated in creams to concentrations of 0.1–5 wt.% for topical use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change (CC) causes extreme meteorological events such as floods, droughts, water scarcity, heat waves, wildfires, and extreme cold. CC may also damage public infrastructures such as drinking water systems (DWSs) and reduce water quality from source to tap. The objective of this review paper is to provide a critical analysis of (1) the impact of CC on the three components of the DWSs: source, treatment, and distribution; (2) the perspectives of DWS employees on CC impacts and adaptation solutions for maintaining water quality; and (3) decision support systems (DSSs) that could be used by DWS employees for CC adaptation. A bibliographic research was conducted using international databases and search engines. The search for scientific articles resulted in the selection of 5234 articles, 78 of which were analyzed in more detail for the elaboration of this scoping review. This review shows that the impacts of CC on water quality are significant, but DWS employees are not enthusiastic about developing adaption measures. This review also shows that DSSs can help DWS employees facilitate the CC adaptation process for the protection of source water, improve water treatment plant operations, and enhance routine management of water quality in the distribution system. Further research is needed to identify strategies that might increase the awareness of and interest in climate change impacts, adaptation, and the use of DSSs among DWS employees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This note presents the application of the mobilisable strength design (MSD) method to the monitoring results of the multi-propped excavation in the south area of the British Library Euston, constructed in a highly overconsolidated stiff clay deposit. The MSD method is an energy-based approach (a nonlinear finite-element method for a single-degree-of-freedom soil-wall system) introduced to develop a simplified design methodology that satisfies both ultimate and serviceability limit states. Wall displacement predictions based on the MSD method are compared with considerable field monitoring data. The sensitivity of the method to reasonable variations in input parameters is considered. A spreadsheet and python code demonstrating the MSD analysis from this paper are provided in the online supplement alongside details of the mathematical formulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, eight shear tests were carried out utilising a double shear with infilled shear interfaces after determining an appropriate experimental design and modified testing scheme. For this, two rock bolts, 20 and 30 tonnes, were tested with modified double shear testing apparatus at different pretension loads. The infilled test scheme was conducted with 5 mm thick sandy clay infilled shear interfaces. A 40 MPa small aggregate concrete was used for all samples to simulate the host rock. Based on the shear profiles, it was found that all samples followed a three-part failure profile consisting of elastic, strain softening, and failure regions. The results of double shear tests revealed that the 20 tonne rock bolt saw a significant overall decrease of approximately 30% in its failure displacement response as opposed to the 30 tonne samples, which saw a 6% increase. Also, it was concluded that the 30 tonne samples outperformed the 20 tonne rock bolts by up to 30%, irrespective of initial pretension settings. Comparing the physical failure characteristics of the samples found that both the 20 and 30 tonne samples exhibited the same response to increased pretension. As the pretension increased, the angle experienced at the hinge point also increased incrementally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resilience is a multidisciplinary concept that deals with rapid response and recovery of a system experiencing a disruption. Despite extensive research on this topic, there is a need to clarify resilience concepts in the context of road freight transportation systems (FTSs) from a three-dimensional perspective (i.e., physical infrastructure, users, and managing organizations) and to identify persistent knowledge gaps concerning the characterization and measurement of FTS resilience vis-à-vis disruptive events. This paper addresses these shortcomings through a systematic review of 149 research studies. The synthesis of findings clarifies inconsistencies associated with the characteristics of FTS resilience and in so doing, establishes a unified framework for measuring FTS resilience through the life cycle of disruptive events. Critical data gaps, methodological shortcomings, and a lack of empirical evidence concerning FTS resilience to disruptive events remain. More robust analytical approaches are required to incorporate interdependencies among FTS dimensions into resilience assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an effort to address urgent issues associated with semitruck platooning. The weigh-in-motion data were first examined to determine the characteristics of naturally formed semitruck platoons. A safety-based two-vehicle platoon model was then utilized to determine the critical headways for assessing the safety of semitruck platooning in various driving scenarios. The possibilities for passenger vehicles to cut into semitruck platoons were assessed using actual vehicle headway data. Finally, the potential impacts of semitruck platooning on typical interstate highway pavements were assessed using finite element analysis. Most semitruck platoons consist of two to three vehicles. An optimal platoon gap of 0.94 s was identified for connected and automated semitruck platooning. The potential impacts of truck platooning on concrete pavement were negligible for a platoon gap greater than 0.2 s. The maximum possible impact was less than 4% in terms of the service life reduction for interstate asphalt pavement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is crucial to evaluate the consistency in weigh-in-motion (WIM) loading over time and quantify the relative accuracy of axle loads based on axle load spectra (ALS) data for different sensor types. This paper presents the temporal evaluation of the ALS from 51 WIM sites and 128 records available in the long-term pavement performance data. Analysis of ALS data over time shows that for single ALS, there is a significant difference in peak loads between the bending plate, and quartz piezo sensor measurements. Also, 100% of the bending plate 86% of the quartz piezo, and 66% of the piezo cables sites exhibited consistent single axle peak loads after 1 year of calibration event. For tandem ALS, significant differences were observed between loaded peaks of bending plate sensor from both quartz piezo and piezo cable sensors. Also, 83% of the bending plate, 78% of the quartz piezo, and 50% of the piezo cable sites exhibited loaded peaks consistently 1 year after calibration. The results show that calibration frequencies longer than 1 year may be acceptable for the bending plate sensors. However, calibration frequencies of at least 1 year for quartz piezo and less than a year for piezo cable sensors are recommended. Pavement designers and analysts should be aware of the changes in WIM data and calibration frequency over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determining absolute electron impact ionization cross-sections for atoms and molecules, whether through experimental or theoretical means, poses a formidable challenge and is typically limited to a narrow selection of species. In this paper, by using measured cross-sections and polarizability data, it was obtained empirical scaling laws for total single ionization and non-dissociative single ionization cross-section maximum of neutral molecules by collisions with electrons. It is found that the total single ionization cross-sections scale linearly with the target electric static polarizability, while the non-dissociate cross-sections exhibit a saturation effect for large target polarizabilities. This saturation effect is interpreted as the increasing role of fragmentation with polarizability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we consider the formation of vortices in multilayer stacks of Bose–Einstein condensates with tilted dipoles by numerical simulations of the Gross–Pitaevskii equation. Different dependencies of critical rotation frequency (CRF) and optical lattice height, vortex number, and rotation frequency are studied, depending on the direction of the dipole axis and dipole strength. Our results show that the CRF in z = 0 is minimum. When the optical lattice height is gradually increased, the CRF decreases gradually. Reducing of dipole strength in anisotropic dipole–dipole interaction (DDI) favours the formation of vortices, and such decline in isotropic DDI hinders the creation of vortices. The reason for this difference is that the repulsive interaction is favorable and the attractive interaction is disadvantageous for the vortex formation. In addition, we study the first-order correlation function and focus on variation of coherence. For small rotation frequency, the break of coherence occurs earlier in the case of purely repulsive interaction. With an increase in rotation frequency, the coherence concurrently disappears in layer z = 2. Moreover, we also investigate the quenched dynamics, showing that the increase of angular momentum is induced by changing the direction of dipoles and in this process the vortex number remains unchanged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the rich contributions of Professor M. Brock Fenton to the field of bat biology in Canada, tracing his early experiences, academic journey, and impactful career, including his role in mentoring students and his continued influence after retirement. Topics include Fenton's bat encounters, academic achievements, research contributions, mentoring legacy, and post-retirement activities, highlighting his multidimensional impact on the field.

Arsenic (As) is a metal with potentially toxic effects on different organisms. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) plays a vital role in mitigating heavy metal toxicity by reducing oxidative stress in plants and animals. However, the role of H2S in alleviating arsenic toxicity in yeast cells remains unclear. In this study, the role of NaHS (exogenous physiological H2S) in alleviating As-induced yeast cell death was investigated. Yeast cells in the logarithmic phase were pretreated with 0.05 mmol/L NaHS for 6 h, and then incubated in the YPD medium with or without 1 mmol/L As. After 12 h of treatment, relative survival rate, H2S content, oxidative stress biomarkers, and antioxidant machinery were measured. Our results showed that sodium arsenite-induced yeast cell death and pretreatment with 0.05 mmol/L NaHS significantly alleviated sodium arsenite-induced cell death. Under sodium arsenite conditions, the levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) increased, accompanied by the inhibition of the catalase (CAT) activity and the downregulation of CTT1 expression. However, the activities of the superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathion peroxidase (GPX) increased, and the expression of SOD1 and GPX2 was markedly upregulated in the group treated with sodium arsenite. When yeast cells were pretreated with NaHS, the intracellular ROS and MDA levels decreased significantly, and the activities of SOD, CAT, and GPX increased significantly. This was associated with a significant increase in relative survival rate and H2S content compared to the arsenic treatment alone. Our findings indicate that NaHS alleviates sodium arsenite-induced yeast cell death, mainly by enhancing the antioxidant defense system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Canadian Journal of Fisheries & Aquatic Sciences is the property of Canadian Science Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering is the property of Canadian Science Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering is the property of Canadian Science Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Canadian Journal of Physics is the property of Canadian Science Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Canadian Geotechnical Journal is the property of Canadian Science Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering is the property of Canadian Science Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Canadian Journal of Physics is the property of Canadian Science Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Canadian Geotechnical Journal is the property of Canadian Science Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Canadian Geotechnical Journal is the property of Canadian Science Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Canadian Geotechnical Journal is the property of Canadian Science Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The National Research Council Canada (NRC) is currently developing seismic evaluation and upgrading guidelines for existing buildings in Canada. The seismic evaluation guidelines consist of three tiers of seismic evaluation procedures, that is, Tier 1 Quick Evaluation, Tier 2 Deficiency-Based Evaluation, and Tier 3 Detailed Evaluation. This paper presents the Tier 1 Quick Evaluation procedure, which aims to update the initial quick evaluation procedure in the existing seismic evaluation guidelines developed by the NRC in early 1990s. The proposed procedure covers seismic assessment of both structural and non-structural elements, and requires the review of construction documents, on-site inspection, and calculations. A set of checklists are contained to uncover potential key seismic deficiencies of the building under evaluation. The checklists are in the form of evaluation statements that relate to potential seismic deficiencies in the structural systems and non-structural components. The proposed procedure is demonstrated by conducting the seismic evaluation of an existing building that is part of a pilot study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the loading process of concrete members, the identification of characteristic damage states is not sensitive enough. This paper investigates the damage evolution of four concrete sandwich wallboards subjected to vertical compression by employing the strain energy density increment to enhance identification sensitivity. First, the equivalent elastic modulus model for a wallboard subjected to vertical compression is established based on the material stress–strain relationship. Then, the strain data of concrete, obtained from experiments and numerical simulations, are modeled as the normalized unit approximate strain energy density increments (NUASEDIs), which follow the damage evolution of the wallboard as a more sensitive index. The first cracking formation of wallboard corresponds to the first high NUASEDI. The failure damage state corresponds to the final high NUASEDI, which reflects the process changing from the local to the global failure. Finally, the strain energy density increment theory improves averagely the cracking identification sensitivity of concrete members by 13.32% and the failure identification sensitivity by 3.01%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One can use the generalized uncertainty principle (GUP) to incorporate the minimum measurable length in quantum gravity. It may be interesting to have a minimal time interval as well as the minimal length in the relativistic version of quantum mechanics in the presence of the gravitational effects. In this paper, we considered a covariant version of the GUP to investigate the effects of both the minimal time and the minimal length. Using the covariant GUP, the energy–momentum dispersion relation was modified. Starting with the modified dispersion relation, the corrections to the wave function were obtained and the problems of the particle in a box and the hydrogen atom were revisited. Considering the minimal time may be an interesting new topic, which is not widely studied before. It may lead to new results that can open a new window into quantum gravity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the effect of initial conditions characterized by compressibility of turbulence on the changes in scalar such as density, temperature, and pressure within the framework of rapid distortion theory (RDT) in the case of non-isentropic turbulence. This study is a follow-up of the basic work carried out by A. Simone, G.N. Coleman and C. Cambon [J. Fluid Mech. 330, 307 (1997)] in the case of quasi-isentropic turbulence and the previous work of M. Riahi and T. Lili [Fluid Dyn. Res. 52, 025501 (2020)] in the case of non-isentropic turbulence. RDT was used to examine the behavior of the root mean square (rms) fluctuations of density, temperature, and pressure. The coupling between these rms quantities, the partition factor, and the polytropic coefficient was also studied. RDT equations were solved numerically using a code that solves directly evolution equations of two-point spectral correlations for compressible homogeneous sheared non-isentropic turbulence. The RDT analysis was carried out for various initial turbulent Mach numbers Mt0 ranging from 0.1 to 0.4, and the initial compressible turbulence is to be one of the three states concerning the fraction of kinetic energy χ0: solenoidal (χ0 = 0), mixed (χ0 = 0.6), and dilatational (χ0 = 1) (χ0 is the ratio of the initial dilatational kinetic energy to the initial total kinetic energy). It is shown from this study that the changes in scalars are strongly dependent on the initial conditions. Magnitudes and asymptotic values of rms thermodynamics fluctuations and correlations between these thermodynamics fluctuations depend of Mt0. For large times, the isentropic state of the flow is well observed whatever Mt0 and χ0. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of a series of cyclic nonsymmetrical thermally loaded model-scale tests conducted on floating pile groups, with and without a rigid cap in saturated clay. The energy pile in each group was subjected to 10 two-way (heating–cooling) thermal cycles with an amplitude of 15 °C to investigate the potential effects of a rigid cap on the thermomechanical behavior of energy pile groups. It was found that the rigid cap restrained the expansion/contraction of the energy pile in response to temperature change and reduced its irreversible settlement, resulting in a lower differential settlement between the energy and nonenergy piles. Consequently, a lower tilting was observed in the pile group with a rigid cap. In addition, the thermally induced axial load was significantly increased (especially in cooling mode) due to the restriction of a rigid cap. The thermomechanical load transfer profile of the energy pile was also affected by it, resulting in the downward transmission of shaft resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fines migration associated with the multiphase flow in the exploitation of hydrate-bearing sediments (HBS) usually induces local clogging and sand production around wells, and thus its behavior with multi-field coupling is of vital importance but still poorly discovered. This paper establishes a coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical-chemical (THMC) model incorporating fines migration in HBS from micro- to macro-scale. Two typical hydrate pore habits, i.e., grain coating and pore filling, are simulated with the discrete element method (DEM) under different depressurization modes, water flow is simulated using computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and heat transfer and chemical reactions are also considered in coupled CFD-DEM simulations. Two distinct fines migration modes and their consequence on the mechanical and hydromechanical properties are revealed. For the grain-coating habit, the coarse particle size reduction induced by hydrate dissociation under an intense depressurization decreases the constriction size, increasing the local pore-clogging probability and reducing the growth rate of the hydraulic conductivity. Conversely, the fine particle size reduction in the pore-filling habit facilitates fines migration and thus sand production, with hydromechanical properties of HBS evolving oppositely compared to the clogging case. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aimed to reveal the effects of chemisorbed oxygen species on selective catalytic oxidation applied for H2S removal. A sequence of thermal treatments were conducted on V2O5/TiO2 samples to prepare catalysts that possess different distributions of oxygen species. Characterization by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy enabled a distinction among three different chemisorbed oxygen species: O–, O22–, and O2–. In addition, the dominance of the O– species, which is a very reactive oxygen species for catalytic oxidation reactions, was observed when the catalyst was exposed to 5% O2/N2 gas at the low temperature of 30 °C. It was also found that the N400A30 with the highest ratio of O– species was superior to others at converting H2S into elemental sulfur over the whole range of temperatures: the best S yield of N400A30 was 85% at 130 °C. These results are promising, as thermal treatments for oxygen adsorption were adopted for the first time to improve the catalytic activity of H2S removal by modulating the proportion of highly reactive O– species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we examined the effects of transition metal replacement and ordering in 2D M3C2O2 MXene on the electronic structure and thermal and electrical conductivities using the density functional theory and also Boltzmann's transport theory within the constant relaxation time approximation. We derived the following oxygen-functionalized ordered double-metal MXenes Ti2YC2O2, Y2TiC2O2, Sc2YC2O2, and Y2ScC2O2 through the surface and sub-layer tuning. The results revealed that the ordered MXenes give rise to different electronic structure and transport properties. The electronic thermal conductivities obtained in terms of the relaxation time increase with increase in absolute temperature, while the electrical conductivities decrease with increase in temperature. The respective transport properties of Y2TiC2O2 and Sc2YC2O2 were found to be enhanced due to the increased squared band velocity, density of state, and low Seebeck coefficient compared to Ti2YC2O2 and Y2ScC2O2 MXenes. Generally, the MXene materials investigated in this work were found to possess metallic properties with the existence of energy overlap around the Fermi level. The computed formation energies support chemical stability in all the materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an extensive investigation of the seismic demands on acceleration-sensitive nonstructural components (NSCs) attached to reinforced concrete moment-resisting frame buildings with limited ductility and designed according to the National Building Code of Canada. A total of four benchmark structures with varying heights are considered in this study. Linear and nonlinear time-history analyses were performed using artificial ground motions compatible with Montreal site Class C uniform hazard spectra having 2% and 10% probabilities of being exceeded in 50 years. Seismic acceleration demands on NSCs were evaluated by assessing the horizontal height factor Ax, the component dynamic amplification factor Ar, and the component force factor Sp compared with various building code provisions. The overall acceleration demands of NSCs are discussed, and a corresponding optimized Sp profile is proposed to improve the estimation of the seismic force demands on NSCs at the rooftops of buildings located in moderate seismic zones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Steel fiber reinforced geopolymer concrete (SFRGC) shows excellent mechanical properties comparable to steel fiber reinforced concrete. However, research on the durability of SFRGC is scarce. This paper presents the carbonation performances of SFRGC, including the carbonation depth and strength variation during carbonation. The results show that the permeability and carbonation depth of SFRGC are close to those of plain geopolymer concrete (GC). Their carbonation depths are much deeper than those of cement concrete because of the lower alkali content of the geopolymer matrix. Carbonation hardly influences the final flexural strength of plain GC, but the flexural strength of SFRGC declines significantly during carbonation because of the decrease in steel fiber-geopolymer matrix bond strength. The scanning electron microscope results show that the failure mode in uncarbonated SFRGC specimens is fiber rupture, while in carbonated SFRGC specimens, fiber pullout is the failure mode. These findings suggest that using SFRGC in the atmosphere is not recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The geometric reduction prevailing in dapped-end concrete beams forms a disturbed region into the beam-ends. Consequently, material deterioration- and reinforcement-detailing issues prevailing in the end region cause a series of structural distresses. In this light, distresses in dapped-end beams and potential retrofitting options are reviewed in this paper. It is found that the choice of the retrofitting configuration is governed considerably by the prevailing defect. The strength enhancement could be as high as 40%–50% upon the choice of correct configuration whereas possibly be negligible upon inappropriate selection. Generally, the use of diagonal bars and plate jacketing are promising with steel applications. The bars can be prestressed to enhance the retrofitting efficiency. For fibre-reinforced polymer applications, inclined/horizontal stripping and fabric wrapping are impressive approaches, while combined systems show better results. The review also identifies the required future research for formulating comprehensive retrofitting guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we study the generalized Klein–Gordon oscillator under the effects of the violation of Lorentz symmetry defined by a tensor field (KF)μναβ out of the standard model extension. We consider a possible scenario of Lorentz-violating with a Cornell-type potential form electric field and a linear magnetic field that contributes a harmonic-type central potential effects in the quantum motions of oscillator fields. The bound-state solutions of the wave equation using the parametric Nikiforov–Uvarov method by considering Coulomb- and Cornell-type potential form functions are obtained. We see that the eigenvalue solutions get modified by the Lorentz symmetry breaking effects in comparison to the Landau levels (without Lorentz-violation effects in flat space). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bat conservation has become prevalent over the last few decades due to critical population declines worldwide. Our purpose was to assess whether Brock Fenton's research career coincided with increasing bat conservation research in Canada and North America. Fenton has made significant contributions to bat research during a long and productive publishing career accompanied by participation in research organizations like the North American Society for Bat Research and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council. His conservation research as well as efforts to raise public awareness about these animals has coincided with work for the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada and its equivalent (Committee on the Status of Species at Risk in Ontario) in ON. To assess the impact of his career, we quantified the relative amount of his peer-reviewed publications with a conservation focus and compared this with the level of conservation-related presentations at annual North American Society for Bat Research conferences. In the same manner, we assessed how often conservation-focused applications were funded by the Ecology and Evolution section of the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council—Canada Discovery grant program. Although it cannot be said with authority that Fenton actually initiated the increase in bat conservation research, our results indicate that his research efforts coincide with and presumably had considerable influence in driving this area of research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forest products trade has a critical role to play in both global economic development and environmental protection. Based on the trade data of global forest products, raw forest products, and processed forest products from 2000 to 2020, this paper constructed a trade network and analyzed its pattern by using indicators such as density, average distance, out-strength, and in-strength. The results show that from 2000 to 2020, the global trade network of forest products has been increasingly connected. Compared with the trade of raw material forest products, the trade network of processed forest products is more closely connected and its transport efficiency is higher. Countries with high GDP such as USA, China, and Germany are leading trading countries in forest products. Countries with abundant forest resources are the major exporters of raw forest products, while labor- and capital-abundant countries are major exporters of processed forest products. Countries with abundant labor and capital and high GDP are the main importers of raw forest products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua is a traditional Chinese herb medicine, and it is widely distributed in China. The intrageneric taxonomy and phylogenetic relationships within Polygonatum have long been controversial due to their morphological similarity and lacking special DNA barcodes. In this paper, the complete chloroplast genome is a relatively conserved quadripartite structure including a large single copy region of 84 711 bp, a small single copy region of 18 210 bp, and a pair of inverted repeats region of 26 142 bp. A total of 342 simple sequence repeats were identified, and most of them were found to be composed of A/T, including 126 mono-nucleotides and 179 di-nucleotides. Nucleotide diversity was analyzed and eight highly variable regions (psbl∼trnT-CGU, atpF∼atpH, trnT-GGU∼psbD, psaJ∼rps20, trnL-UAG∼ndhD, ndhG∼ndhl, ndhA, and rpl32∼ccsA) were identified as potential molecular markers. Phylogenetic analysis based on the whole chloroplast genome showed that P. cyrtonema, within the family Asparagaceae, is closely related to Polygonatum sibiricum and Polygonatum kingianum. The sequence matK, trnT-GGU & ccsA, and ndhG∼ndhA were identified as three DNA barcodes. The assembly and comparative analysis of P. cyrtonema complete chloroplast genome will provide essential molecular information about the evolution and molecular biology for further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]