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In an external contextual grammar with selection, contexts are associated with selection languages, and the context (u , v) can be wrapped around a word w if and only if w belongs to the selection language associated with (u , v). In the papers [1] , [3] , [4] , and [6] , some hierarchies are presented if selection languages are taken from subregular language families, defined by automata-theoretic and combinatorial properties, codes, and ideals. In this paper we merge and complete the hierarchies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploring continuity from organic codes and natural signals to cultural sign and symbol systems, this paper is undergirded conceptually by a semiotic tree depicting an ascending hierarchy of semiotic forms. Originating in underground roots from a medley of organic codes, the human use of codified meanings surfaces in the trunk, (in Latin Caudex or Codex), our simplest semiotic instrument. Ascending branches represent natural and man-made signals, and indicative and denotative signs, rising to more complex fully symbolic abstract forms in various sign systems. Each level corresponds to a different mental organization, determining the quality and nature of subjective experience and knowledge, epistemology and information being closely tied to semiotic and semantic factors. The psychoanalytic method focuses on unconscious phenomena descending interpretively below the limen of linguistic consciousness generating a semantic field that exposes multiple levels and kinds of meanings. This positions us optimally to observe different semiotic organizations, a multi-coded spectrum of human enacted and mediated meanings that is best systemized along developmental lines (Aragno, 1997/,2016). Freud's decoding the grammar of dreams enables the linguistic interpretation of condensed and displaced pictographic representations of a deeply unconscious 'Primary Process' semantic bridging biological and psychological processes that are ongoing throughout life. A multilayered model of mind reframes theoretical understanding around epigenetic and morphological principles that are applicable to phylogenetic and ontogenetic development. From this revised meta-theoretical base, this paper illustrates how language absorbs and often serves deep unconscious functions, as well as, conversely, elevating abstract cognition and conscious articulation. A bio-semiotic multiple-code model of mind is based on progressive stages in the development of symbolization, a cerebral faculty unique to our species, distinguishing us from all other animals, without which we could neither speak nor conceive of "Mind" at all. Conscious 'mind' emerges through a signifying act, assigning a name to a 'person' or 'thing' that can be represented within, in its absence. This simple concept has far reaching cognitive/psychological consequences impacting on all aspects of experience and knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extreme events (i.e. terrorist attacks, vehicle impacts, explosions, etc.) often cause local damage to building structures and pose a serious threat when one or more vertical load-bearing components fail, leading to the progressive collapse of the entire structure or a large part of it. Since the beginning of the 21st century there has been growing interest in the risks associated with extreme events, especially after the attacks on the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma in 1995 and on the World Trade Center in New York in 2001. The accent is now on achieving resilient buildings that can remain operational after such an event, especially when they form part of critical infrastructures, are occupied by a large number of people, or are open to the public. This paper presents an ambitious review that describes all the main advances that have taken place since the beginning of the 21st century in the field of progressive collapse and robustness of buildings. Widely diverse aspects are dealt with, including: (1) a collection of conceptual definitions, (2) bibliometric details, (3) the present situation and evolution of codes and design recommendations, (4) quantification of robustness, (5) assessing the risk of progressive collapse, (6) experimental tests, (7) numerical modelling, and (8) research needs. Considering the comprehensive range of these aspects, this paper could be of great use to professionals and researchers who intend to enter the field of the progressive collapse of building structures and also to other experts who require an extensive and up-to-date view of this topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we introduce some new polynomials associated to linear codes over F q. In particular, we introduce the notion of split complete Jacobi polynomials attached to multiple sets of coordinate places of a linear code over F q , and give the MacWilliams type identity for it. We also give the notion of generalized q -colored t -designs. As an application of the generalized q -colored t -designs, we derive a formula that obtains the split complete Jacobi polynomials of a linear code over F q. Moreover, we define the concept of colored packing (resp. covering) designs. Finally, we give some coding theoretical applications of the colored designs for Type III and Type IV codes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents comparison between the punching shear calculations from six different codes and two equations from the literature. It utilizes 257 punching tests data collected from the literature. The concrete strengths, f'c, range between 12.3 MPa and 68 MPa, the reinforcement ratios range between 0.2% and 5.01%, and the slab depths range between 80 mm and 500 mm. It is found that the smallest error is for CEB-FIP-90 and EC2-2004 while the largest error is for JSCE-2002 and ACI318-19. Also, modifications to one of the equations of the Egyptian reinforced concrete code and two of the equations of ACI318-19 code for calculating the punching strength of flat plates without shear reinforcements are presented. The modified Egyptian and ACI318-19 codes equations for punching strength are compared to the experimental data and good correlations are noticed. The obtained errors are lesser than those of the original codes equations and the average errors are on the conservative side. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a detailed study concerning the behaviour of Lightweight Aggregate Concrete (LWAC) members subjected to short-term tensile or flexural loading. For this purpose, a comprehensive experimental programme was carried out covering a wide range of LWAC specimens with different reinforcement ratios and classes of LWAC concrete, with compressive strength ranging from 40 MPa up to 70 MPa. The performance of Eurocode-2 (EC2) and Model Code (MC) guidelines were checked against experimental results, namely in what concerns deformation and cracking prediction for typical service stress levels. In the case of pure tensile loads, it was observed that MC adequately predicts the experimental deformations, whereas EC2 estimates are more adequate for higher reinforcement ratios. In the case of flexural loading, EC2 shows good agreement with experimental results. Furthermore, safe estimates were obtained when using EC2 to predict the crack widths in LWAC members under pure tensile load, whereas MC provided estimates in agreement with the experimental results. Finally, the paper addresses the viability of proposing a new parameter for quantifying deflections and cracking without relying on the tensile strength of concrete, thus avoiding the high variability of this experimental parameter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this paper, we consider effective constructions of the greatest solution of the language inequality . It has been proved by Kunc in 2005 that the greatest solution of is regular provided that B is regular, no matter what A is. However this proof is based on Kruskal's tree theorem, and does not provide any effective way to construct the greatest solution. We focus on this gap in this paper. We give an effective construction of the greatest solution for the following two cases: [(i)] are regular and there exists such that , where is the set of prefixes of words in B, [(ii)] are regular and B is a code with finite decoding delay. Our construction takes the point of view of games. As shown by Kunc in his regularity proof, the construction of the greatest solution can be reduced to the construction of the winning region of a two-player game. Our contribution is to show that the winning regions of the two-player game for the two cases can be constructed effectively. The main ingredient of the construction for the first case is a shrinking lemma for the words on which one of the players has a winning strategy. While the construction for the second case is based on the observation that the two-player game can be reduced to a two-player reachability game played on the transition graph of a one-counter machine. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A picture, or two-dimensional (2D) string, is a rectangular array of symbols over a finite alphabet. In this paper, we introduce the notion of fullness for sets of strings and sets of pictures. Fullness is a local counterpart of completeness. While in 1D fullness coincides with completeness, in 2D complete sets of pictures are a subset of full ones. This new notion allows introducing the encoding of a picture. The definition of encoding is based on the one of cutting decomposition. If a set of pictures X is full then any picture has an encoding over X ; furthermore, the encoding is unique if X is a univocally full set. Univocally full sets coincide with the maximal strong prefix codes of pictures that were recently introduced. At last, we show an encoding algorithm for pictures, which relies on a new tree data structure to represent univocally full sets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Compressed sensing theory provides a new approach to acquire data as a sampling technique and makes sure that a sparse signal can be reconstructed from few measurements. The construction of compressed sensing matrices is a main problem in compressed sensing theory. In this paper, the deterministic compressed sensing matrices are provided using optimal codebooks and codes. Using specific linear and nonlinear codes, we present deterministic constructions of compressed sensing matrices, which are generalizations of DeVore′s construction and Li et al.′s construction. Compared with DeVore′s matrices and Li et al.′s matrices, by using appropriate optimal codebooks and specific codes, the compressed sensing matrices we construct are superior to DeVore′s matrices and Li et al.′s matrices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: During the last decade, structural deficiencies and failures have received extensive attention in mainland China, and a certain portion of the resultant disputes are resolved by means of forensic structural engineering (abbreviated to FSE). Meanwhile, however, the conflict between the progress of FSE and the requirements on forensic science practices becomes more and more outstanding. The purpose of the present study is to provide an in-depth insight into the development and issues with regard to Chinese FSE and, through this, discuss how it can better adapt to the new situations. The paper begins by outlining the typical causes of buildings and civil engineering disputes, and then identifies the major driving forces and progress of FSE. Further, barriers to forensic engineering are investigated which are of potential value to those working in or engaging with this profession. Thirdly, a total of four factors significant to forensic engineering are extracted, namely technical code system, impartiality, multidisciplinary working, and vocational qualification. Finally, the paper discusses, through the use of a case study, how to add value to FSE in mainland China. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Fifty-one organisations network in SARNET (Severe Accident Research NETwork of Excellence) their research capacities in order to resolve the most important pending issues for enhancing, with regard to Severe Accidents (SA), the safety of existing and future Nuclear Power Plants (NPPs). This project, co-funded by the European Commission (EC) under the 6th Framework Programme, has been defined in order to optimise the use of the available means and to constitute sustainable research groups in the European Union. SARNET tackles the fragmentation that may exist between the different national R&D programmes, in defining common research programmes and developing common computer tools and methodologies for safety assessment. SARNET comprises most of the organisations involved in SA research in Europe, plus Canada. To reach these objectives, all the organisations networked in SARNET contributed to a Joint Programme of Activities, which consisted of: [•] Implementation of an advanced communication tool for accessing all project information, fostering exchange of information, and managing documents; [•] Harmonization and re-orientation of the research programmes, and definition of new ones; [•] Analysis of the experimental results provided by research programmes in order to elaborate a common understanding of relevant phenomena; [•] Development of the ASTEC code (integral computer code used to predict the NPP behaviour during a postulated SA), which capitalizes in terms of physical models the knowledge produced within SARNET; [•] Development of Scientific Databases in which all the results of research programmes are stored in a common format (DATANET); [•] Development of a common methodology for Probabilistic Safety Assessment of NPPs; [•] Development of short courses and writing a textbook on Severe Accidents for students and researchers; [•] Promotion of personnel mobility amongst various European organisations. This paper presents the major achievements after four and a half years of operation of the network, in terms of knowledge gained, of improvement of the ASTEC reference code, of dissemination of results and of integration of the research programmes conducted by the various partners. After this first period (2004–2008), co-funded by the EC, a further contract SARNET2 with the EC for the next four years started in April 2009 as part of the 7th Framework Programme. During this period, the networking activities will focus mainly on the remaining pending issues as determined during the first period, experimental activities will be directly included in the common work and the network will evolve toward complete self-sustainability. The bases for such an evolution are presented in the last part of the paper. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Reinforced Masonry offers several advantages for low cost housing in seismic regions. Widely accepted design criteria, however, are not available — although several design rules are provided in several Codes. This paper is a contribution to the research needed towards a possible improvement of design recommendations, based on the following rational data: (a) Recognition of all failure modes, and (b) Specific contribution of force transfer mechanisms, such as tensile strength and compression strength of masonry, masonry to masonry friction, pullout force of steel bars and dowel action. Thus, using first principles and specific data from recent experimental results, several closed formulae are derived in this paper, predicting shear loads of (i) cracking (ii) tensile disintegration of the web and (iii) diagonal compression crushing of R.M. cantilever and double fixed walls. Ultimate loads proposed by this paper, as well as critical shear loads proposed by several Codes, are also calibrated through a data bank of 55 large scale experiments; conclusions are drawn regarding their validity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The centralizer of a set of words X is the largest set of words commuting with X: . It has been a long standing open question due to [J.H. Conway, Regular Algebra and Finite Machines, Chapman & Hall, London (1971).], whether the centralizer of any rational set is rational. While the answer turned out to be negative in general, see [M. Kunc, Proc. of ICALP 2004, Lecture Notes in Computer Science, Vol. 3142, Springer, Berlin, 2004, pp. 870–881.], we prove here that the situation is different for codes: the centralizer of any rational code is rational and if the code is finite, then the centralizer is finitely generated. This result has been previously proved only for binary and ternary sets of words in a series of papers by the authors and for prefix codes in an ingenious paper by [B. Ratoandromanana, RAIRO Inform. Theor. 23(4) (1989) 425–444.]—many of the techniques we use in this paper follow her ideas. We also give in this paper an elementary proof for the prefix case. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Arch-roof industrial buildings are very wind sensitive. The current aerodynamic coefficients in wind codes do not contemplate the possibility of existence of canopies attached to the buildings. This paper presents the results of an investigation on the influence exerted by canopies on the static wind actions on arch-roof industrial buildings. Six scale models of these arch-roof buildings were tested, with five types of canopies attached. Three of these canopies were instrumented and the static wind pressures were measured. The tests were done at the boundary layer wind tunnel of the Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul. The results show that the aerodynamic coefficients for the roof are not affected by the canopies, in the case of axial incidence. However, the influence on the pressure distribution is noticeable for wind incidence perpendicular to the main axis of the arch roofs and for other incidences as well. This influence is discussed in the paper. The aerodynamic coefficients for the design of the arch-roofs, with and without the attached canopies are given. Aerodynamic coefficients for design of the canopies are also suggested. Furthermore, the paper discusses the relation between the magnitude of the canopy design forces and the canopy width, as well as the relation between the canopy height location and the height of the building wall. The results were compared with design recommendations from previous work of Jancauskas and Holmes (in: US National Conference on Wind Engineering, Proceedings, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, 1985) and Jancauskas and Eddleston (in: International Conference on Wind Engineering, Fotodruck J. Mainz, Aachen, 1987). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this paper, we introduce the notion of Jacobi polynomials of a code with multiple reference vectors, and give the MacWilliams type identity for it. Moreover, we derive a formula to obtain the Jacobi polynomials using the Aronhold polarization operator. Finally, we describe some facts obtained from Type III and Type IV codes that interpret the relation between the Jacobi polynomials and designs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This two-part paper proposes a resistance format and partial factors for the global buckling of FRP profiles based on reliability analysis and partial factor calibration. Most current recommendations for the design of structural members made with FRP materials are not grounded on reliability concepts and this poses questions concerning safety and economy. Part 1 of this paper presents the resistance format proposed, the approach to the variability of material properties, the resistance models, and the design equations for the following global buckling modes: (i) flexural, (ii) flexural-torsional, and (iii) lateral-torsional; all of them refer to well-known formulations available in the literature. Probability distributions for the model uncertainties of the resistance models are defined based on all trustworthy experiments collected by the authors from the literature. In general, the three resistance models proposed provide estimates of the critical buckling stress with good accuracy when compared to the observed (tested) buckling resistance, resulting in an average bias close to one. The coefficient of variation of the model uncertainties varies between 11% (flexural buckling) and 19% (flexural-torsional buckling). Preliminary partial factors are proposed in this part and their reliability-based calibration is presented in Part 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work deals with a comparative study of regulations, codes and standards for hydrogen fuelling station dedicated for light duty land vehicles in the following countries: United States (California), United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, Canada, Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Spain. The following technical components of a hydrogen fuelling station are included in the scope of the study: the hydrogen storage systems (cryogenic or compressed gases) and buffer storage, the compressor stations, the high pressure buffer storage, the cooling systems for hydrogen, the dispensing equipments and the dispensing area. The hydride storage, the pipelines, on site production and the hydrogen vehicle have been excluded. The analysis, performed in September 2014 in a report from INERIS DRA-14-141532-06227C BENCHMARK STATIONS-SERVICE HYDROGENE, is based on documents collected by bibliographic review and information obtained through a questionnaire sent to authorities and IA HySafe [1] members in the above mentioned countries. This paper gives a synthesis of the regulations and on permitting process in the different studied countries (including the new European Directive on the deployment of alternative fuels infrastructure in Europe [2]), it develops the required safety barriers in the different parts of a fuelling station and specially for the dispensing area, gives an overview of the different approaches for safety distances and processes to obtain licences to operate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last decades, Çiftlikköy village in the northwest of Mersin city centrehasbeen under the threat of losing its rural lifestyle and natural landscape. Especially after the establishment of auniversity on a neighbouring valley, a dense residential area constructed and rural qualities of the village has been transformed into a different character. High-rise urban apartment blocks and low-density rural housing side-by-side marks social-physical contradictions and urban segregation in this selected case. In the paper, sustainability issues will be discussed in accordance to the well-being of inhabitants, inequality of rights between wide-ranging economic groups, existing and new users, settlement conditions and transformation from the rural to the urban community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the measured cumulative yields of 44 Ti for nat Cr, 56 Fe, nat Ni and 93 Nb samples irradiated by protons at the energy range 0.04–2.6 GeV. The obtained excitation functions are compared with calculations of the well-known codes: ISABEL, Bertini, INCL4.2+ABLA, INCL4.5+ABLA07, PHITS, CASCADE07 and CEM03.02. The predictive power of these codes regarding the studied nuclides is analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fuel gas connectors (FGC) are indispensable in modern building constructions, especially where gas is the primary source of energy for the building. FGC supply natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to appliances in buildings. There are potentially associated hazards with the use of FGC, triggering controversies over the safer choice of material. Safety codes have been established since 1911 to mitigate the potential risks associated with the use of FGC, this paper discusses the development of the codes. These codes are periodically revised to ensure the safety and reliability of all gas powered appliances in households. Subsequent code edition builds on the next, through consensus-based modifications that represent the progressive needs in this area and the most recent information on FGC safety. It was observed that the different modifications in safety requirements for the FGC have largely improved the reliability potentials of the piping systems over the years based on data collection and research. The newer flexible materials offer ease of use and are also found to be relatively safer than the old rigid pipes. Continuous safety assessment of these materials is required to mitigate risks and ensure adequate protection of life, property and the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is limited information available on wind-induced torsional loads on buildings. This paper presents results of wind tunnel tests carried out on a series of models of low- and medium-rise buildings. Four buildings with the same plan dimensions but different heights (6, 12, 25 and 50 m) were tested in a simulated open terrain exposure for different wind directions. Synchronized wind pressure measurements allowed estimating instantaneous base shear forces and torsional moments on the tested rigid building models. Results were normalized and presented in terms of mean and peak values of shear and torsional coefficients for two load cases, namely: maximum torsion and corresponding shear, and maximum shear and corresponding torsion. Comparison of the wind tunnel test results with current torsion- and shear-related provisions in the American Standard as well as the Canadian and European codes demonstrates significant discrepancies. The findings of this study could assist wind code and standards committees to improve provisions for wind-induced torsional loads on buildings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thaumasite sulfate attack (TSA) is a special form of sulfate attack typically occurring due to the availability of carbonates/bicarbonates in the cementitious matrix with abundance of moisture and a prevailing low temperature. It transforms concrete into a non-cohesive mass without any binding or load carrying capacity. Field and laboratory data show that the extent of TSA depends on multiple critical factors including exposure conditions (e.g. type and concentration of sulfate, change of temperature and relative humidity, location of structure/element relative to grade level) and constituents of concrete (e.g. type of cement, inclusion of limestone materials, type and dosage of supplementary cementitious materials). The current paper compiles and analyzes current knowledge/research on the topic from various field and laboratory studies. TSA on concrete is discussed in terms of the mechanisms of damage, test methods, most influential factors and code provisions in North America and Europe. In addition, a mitigation strategy for TSA is proposed based on the balance of physical and chemical resistances of concrete as controlled by key mixture design parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many countries are struggling to reconcile the conflicting demands of heightened risk aversion cultivated by a reactionary public and media, and recognition of the rights of parents and children to family maintenance where possible. One approach that seeks to grapple with these demands is the signs of safety (SoS) approach (Turnell & Edwards, 1999). This article is a theoretical paper discussing the SoS approach, drawing on a qualitative empirical study of decision-making in a context where the SoS was used. As practice tools affect knowledge production, the SoS approach is analysed using the social constructionist concepts of positioning and investment, Bernstein's codes, and Foucault's knowledge/power and discretion/surveillance ideas. It is argued that the SoS approach offers morally attractive subject positions to parents which may contribute to client engagement and personal change. This is achieved by focussing on future safety, implying future parental competence, and including parents in decision-making processes. The SoS approach uses both corrective and appreciative ‘codes’ in its approach to knowledge production. That is, it allows clients some input into constructing problems and finding solutions and thus de-privileges the social worker's ‘expert’ view, reflecting an appreciative code. However, this does not extend to ‘bottom-line’ concerns that the social worker defines as essential for the case to close, thus reflecting corrective elements. In terms of knowledge/power and discretion/surveillance, the approach helps social workers to differentiate between when to lend discretionary power to clients and include them in knowledge production, and when to retain control over knowledge production. Importantly, it is underpinned by a traditional ‘respect for persons’ ethic that assumes the potential for parental functioning, and parental right to autonomy, in an environment that has traditionally begun from the opposite premise. However, while it holds much potential for humanising responses to risk that are productive in terms of personal change, client engagement and child safety, its focus on the micro context of client's lives only may omit significant structural causes of risks to children, or overstate social worker's power within organisational and wider political policy contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, predictions of along-wind base moments for a generic tall building from several wind tunnels from an international benchmark study, are compared with those from three codes and standards: the Hong Kong Code of Practice (2004), the Australian/New Zealand Standard, and the American Standard (ASCE 7). There are significant differences in the predictions from the codes, with two of the codes producing lower values than the average of the wind tunnel data. In the case of the Hong Kong Code, the specified drag coefficients for the building are significantly lower than the effective drag coefficients derived from the other standards, and from the measurements. The lower predictions from ASCE 7 can be partly attributed to an apparent inconsistent formulation in the numerator of the expression for the gust effect factor for dynamic structures. Predictions of cross-wind base moments and resultant accelerations from the Australian/New Zealand Standard, have also been compared with the wind-tunnel data. The comparisons are good, with the Standard giving predictions close to the averages of the wind-tunnel data for the cross-wind moments, and close to the upper limits of the wind-tunnel data for the resultant accelerations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Absrtract: The components located inside the ITER vacuum chamber (in-vessel components – IC), due to their specific nature and the environments they are exposed to (neutron radiation, high heat fluxes, electromagnetic forces, etc.), have specific design criteria which are, in this paper, referred as Structural Design Criteria for In-vessel Components (SDC-IC). The development of these criteria started in the very early phase of the ITER design and followed closely the criteria of the RCC-MR code. Specific rules to include the effect of neutron irradiation were implemented. In 2008 the need of an update of the SDC-IC was identified to add missing specifications, to implement improvements, to modernise rules including recent evolutions in international codes and regulations (i.e. PED). Collaboration was set up between ITER Organization (IO), European (EUDA) and Russian Federation (RFDA) Domestic Agencies to generate a new version of SDC-IC. A Peer Review Group (PRG) composed by members of the ITER Organization and all ITER Domestic Agencies and code experts was set-up to review the proposed modifications, to provide comments, contributions and recommendations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In the last 30 years, there have been significant advances made in the areas of probabilistic modeling of timber mechanical properties, structural analysis models for wood-frame structural systems, and stochastic modeling of structural and environmental loads. Collectively, this work has formed the scientific underpinning for modern limit-states timber design codes (e.g., in Europe, the United States, Canada, Japan, and elsewhere). Thus, it is fair to say that strength-based (limit states) design of structures in general, and timber structures in particular, is well developed and only incremental work is needed to keep these codes current. Advanced second-moment reliability techniques and numerical simulation techniques have been adequate for the development of today''s probability-based limit states design codes, which are largely member-based with only a relatively simplistic treatment of multi-member systems. With increased attention being paid to economic loss as a limit state deserving of concurrent attention with life safety, especially following extremely costly natural disasters in the last two decades, there are efforts throughout the international engineering communities to move toward a philosophy of multi-objective performance-based (also called objective-based) design. This has required advanced modeling capabilities (e.g., of highly redundant structural systems of nonlinear materials), nonlinear and dynamic analysis capabilities, and often significantly more computational power. Coupled with these advances has been a move toward fragility analysis techniques to uncouple the hazard (e.g., seismic, wind) from the structural system response, thereby enabling more efficient probabilistic analysis and inference. Fragility techniques are also increasingly being accepted by those in the design communities (especially seismic design) and are likely to form the basis for next generation performance-based design procedures for all hazards. This paper describes this philosophical transition and reports on advances in fragility-based techniques that relate directly to the performance-based design of timber structures. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper reports on a small-scale study into the effects of uncoded correction (writing the correct forms above each error) and coded annotations (writing symbols that encourage learners to self-correct) on Colombian university-level EFL learners'' written work. The study finds that while both coded annotations and uncoded correction appear to aid learners in a) recognising and correcting errors in their written work, and b) producing correct forms in subsequent pieces of work, coded feedback seems to be more effective at this, possibly as a result of the increased cognitive engagement and social interaction it affords. In both cases, however, the process of acquisition is non-linear, and may also be influenced by other factors, such as teaching input, natural orders of acquisition and individual differences. The findings also suggest that since certain error types, such as spelling, verb tense and word choice, are more persistent than others, correction codes may be usefully combined with written comments providing appropriate depth of feedback. Teachers may also adapt codes to individual groups of learners to reflect error types that cause particular difficulties, and annotate/correct selectively to avoid discouraging learners from taking risks and experimenting with more sophisticated language forms. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The enumeration of strongly regular graphs with parameters (45, 12, 3, 3) has been completed, and it is known that there are 78 non-isomorphic strongly regular (45, 12, 3, 3) graphs. A strongly regular graph with these parameters is a symmetric (45, 12, 3) design having a polarity with no absolute points. In this paper we examine the ternary codes obtained from the adjacency (resp. incidence) matrices of these graphs (resp. designs), and those of their corresponding derived and residual designs. Further, we give a generalization of a result of Harada and Tonchev on the construction of non-binary self-orthogonal codes from orbit matrices of block designs under an action of a fixed-point-free automorphism of prime order. Using the generalized result we present a complete classification of self-orthogonal ternary codes of lengths 12, 13, 14, and 15, obtained from non-fixed parts of orbit matrices of symmetric (45, 12, 3) designs admitting an automorphism of order 3. Several of the codes obtained are optimal or near optimal for the given length and dimension. We show in addition that the dual codes of the strongly regular (45, 12, 3, 3) graphs admit majority logic decoding. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The research presented in this paper investigates the mechanical properties under compressive loads of a natural stone masonry. Selected materials and arrangement are typical from the Romanesque period, the main architectural style in Europe from the 9th to the 13th centuries, found both in heritage and conventional buildings. The characterisation of the basic materials and different stone masonry prisms are included. Sandstone and low strength lime–cement mortar were used for this experimental work because of their availability and similarity with the masonry found in many historic buildings from the North of Spain. The morphological characteristics of the original ancient walls were also taken into account, in order to manufacture prism specimens that were as representative as possible of the Spanish Romanesque typology (i.e. in terms of its geometry, composition of the internal core, relative size, etc.). The experimental values were compared with the analytical ones provided by other author’s equations, codes and main standards. The differences on the obtained results are analysed and the more suitable formulae are identified. The results permit a better understanding of these materials and a reliable source of data for the validation of the existing structures. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The main challenge for construction industry today is sustainability. Bamboo has properties that make it sustainable, but its fire behavior remains unknown. This paper presents an exploratory research on fire behavior of Guadua angustifolia kunth (a.k.) bamboo. Fire reaction was assessed through critical heat flux for ignition and flame spread while fire resistance through charring rate and strength variation with temperature. Fire reaction fall within standard limits used for structural woods, while fire resistance results are higher than that of plywood. Based on these preliminary results, Guadua a.k. would be adequate as structural and indoor finishing building material. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this paper a probabilistic approach is presented where the boundary element method is efficiently used to study the effect of a random shift of a given pile within a particular pile cap from its original position–the so-called pile dislocation problem–on selected output design parameters such as pile loads and bending moments in the pile cap. A new circular internal element is developed to simulate the true geometric modeling of piles. The boundary element method for the shear-deformable (thick) plate theory is employed to analyze the pile cap. The plate–pile interaction forces are considered to have constant variation over the circular pile domain. The probabilistic approach presented herein incorporates a Monte Carlo simulation technique for generating random shifts in the original position of a given pre-selected pile. The procedure has been applied to some exemplar pile caps with given pile layouts typically adopted in bridge construction. The results demonstrate that the random dislocation of piles within practical ranges/values as customarily encountered for example in pile caps pertinent to bridge applications will cause limited variations in the output design parameters investigated herein and mentioned above. In other words, it has been illustrated that the resulting dispersion in the output values due to random dislocation of piles is less than the possible intrinsic dispersion that may be practically triggered in the pile locations due to common construction inaccuracies and/or unanticipated problems during pile driving process. The study further emphasizes the efficiency and reliability of the Boundary Elements Method adopted herein for such application. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Calculations of the fuel burnup and radionuclide inventory in the Syrian miniature neutron source reactor (MNSR) after 10years (the reactor core expected life) of the reactor operation time are presented in this paper using the GETERA code. The code is used to calculate the fuel group constants and the infinite multiplication factor versus the reactor operating time for 10, 20, and 30kW operating power levels. The amounts of uranium burntup and plutonium produced in the reactor core, the concentrations and radionuclides of the most important fission products and actinide radionuclides accumulated in the reactor core, and the total radioactivity of the reactor core were calculated using the GETERA code as well. It is found that the GETERA code is better than the WIMSD4 code for the fuel burnup calculation in the MNSR reactor since it is newer, has a bigger library of isotopes, and is more accurate. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In the case of a hypothetical severe accident in a Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR), Silver–Indium–Cadmium (SIC) control rod failure occurs early during the sequence. Release of absorber melt could induce early fuel rod degradation by interaction of molten SIC alloy with fuel rod cladding, and the absorber materials could interact with the fission products, affecting significantly their speciation and transport in the primary circuit as well as their behaviour in the containment. This paper summarises the experimental and modelling progress made on this topic within SARNET over the whole project. Following a review of the status of knowledge, including the modelling in the main severe accident codes (ATHLET-CD, MAAP4, SCDAP, MELCOR, ASTEC), detailed calculations of the specific EMAIC and integral PHEBUS FPT2 experiments were performed. Accurate calculation of vapour pressure of the molten absorber elements is needed, requiring reliable values of the activity coefficients. The importance of accurate reproduction of the control rod degradation was shown, with the behaviour of absorber elements at rupture being critical as well as the thermodynamic data and speciation of the system Ag–In–Cd–Zr–H–O. The QUENCH-13 bundle experiment (FZK), conducted with a realistic integral geometry composed of 20 electrical heated rod simulators and one central SIC absorber rod, has helped to characterize the behaviour of absorber elements at the time of rod rupture, with measurements of the SIC release, using impactors (AEKI) and electrical low-pressure impactor and Berner low-pressure impactors (PSI). Coordinated pre and post-test calculations using SCDAP/RELAP5 based codes (PSI), MAAP4 (EDF), ATHLET-CD (GRS), ASTEC (IRSN) helped in defining the test and in its interpretation. Before this experiment, five tests were performed on small-scale SIC control rod samples using different designs and conditions. They helped in defining the conditions for the QUENCH-13 experiment. Five additional tests on similar small-scale samples are foreseen to help interpretation of the QUENCH-13 results. In QUENCH-13 the on-line aerosol measurements with electrical low-pressure impactors indicated control rod failure in the range 1550–1600K; the test was terminated later at 1813K by water reflood. Analysis of aerosols measured at sample points in the off-gas line showed significant Cd and In transport after rod failure with a smaller amount of transported Ag. Relocated SIC melt in the form of rivulets was detected in the lower part of the bundle. Investigation of SIC material properties (solidus, liquidus) by further analysis of data from QUENCH-13 is also presented. In parallel, an exhaustive review of activity coefficients of the elements in the SIC melt, including the effect of Zr was began (IRSN with the CNRS Marseille). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper describes a study of topographic effects on gust wind speed. Four major wind-loading codes are reviewed and a combined terrain/height and topographic multiplier for each code is derived. Detailed comparisons of topographic effects between codes are presented. Specific examples employing different codes along with meticulous analyses are given to illustrate recommendations for code revisions and for future research. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Almost difference families (ADFs) are a useful generalization of almost difference sets (ADSs). In this paper, we present some constructive techniques to obtain ADFs and establish a number of infinite classes of ADFs. Our results can be regarded as a generalization of the known difference families. It is clear that ADFs give partially balance incomplete block designs which arise in a natural way in many combinatorial and statistical problems. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Individuals within a firm have to choose the way in which they develop the tasks that are assigned to them. In the model proposed in this paper, workers choose between two codes. They are rewarded according to their productivity and this depends on the selected code in two ways: first, the best understood code is likely to be the one chosen by the worker; second, it is important to select a code that others also use in order to accomplish team work benefits. A memory loss element is introduced, reflecting the presence of a myopic attitude in the choice process, and an intensity of choice component is also considered, making the selection of a code a process where bounded rationality prevails. Under the proposed setup, one identifies a steady state point, to which the system is likely to converge, and that reveals the long-term probability value of choosing one of the two codes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper presents the results of the wind tunnel experiments and compares them with full-scale data obtained at the Technical University of Eindhoven (TUE) building in Eindhoven, The Netherlands. Difficulties with the wind tunnel testing are discussed. The objective of the study is to quantify the parameters involved in the design of pressure-equalized rainscreen (PER) walls in order to establish specific design guidelines for standards and codes of practice. Comparisons with the currently available limited provisions show clearly their inadequacy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Rosenbloom and Tsfasman introduced a generalization of the Hamming metric, motivated by a model of information transmission over parallel channels, and obtained bounds on the cardinality of codes in the induced finite metric space. In the present paper, some new bounds are given and the analogue of the Plotkin bound is improved. Furthermore, the following problem together with some results is presented: which are the parameters such that there exist codes meeting the Singleton bound in the new space? The binary case is solved. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper develops combinatorial algorithms for computing parameters of extensions of BCH codes based on directed graphs. One of our algorithms generalizes and strengthens a previous result obtained in the literature before. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The Northridge earthquake (near Los Angeles, CA, USA, January 17, 1994) and the Tecomán–Colima earthquake (near Manzanillo, México, January 21, 2003) have increased our knowledge of the behavior of masonry buildings in significant earthquakes, and also have led to changes or proposals for changes in US masonry design provisions. In this paper, the masonry code-development process in the US is briefly reviewed, with emphasis on the fundamental role of the Masonry Standards Joint Committee (MSJC). The Northridge and Tecomán–Colima earthquakes are discussed, with emphasis on the behavior of modern engineered masonry. Lessons learned from those earthquakes with regard to masonry are summarized, and the related evolution of MSJC design provisions for the US is discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Every elliptic quartic of with n -rational points provides a near-MDS code of length n and dimension 4 such that the collineation group of is isomorphic to the automorphism group of . In this paper we assume that has characteristic . We classify the linear collineation groups of which can preserve an elliptic quartic of . Also, we prove for that if the j-invariant of does not disappear, then cannot be extended in a natural way by adding a point of to . [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Two-uniform frames and their use for the coding of vectors are the main subject of this paper. These frames are known to be optimal for handling up to two erasures, in the sense that they minimize the largest possible error when up to two frame coefficients are set to zero. Here, we consider various numerical measures for the reconstruction error associated with a frame when an arbitrary number of the frame coefficients of a vector are lost. We derive general error bounds for two-uniform frames when more than two erasures occur and apply these to concrete examples. We show that among the 227 known equivalence classes of two-uniform (36,15)-frames arising from Hadamard matrices, there are 5 that give smallest error bounds for up to 8 erasures. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper is about the merging of two software applications that allows building decision makers to consider code compliance and to use performance simulation tools from the early schematic phases of building design. By making the capabilities of a code compliance tool available at the early schematic phases of building design, the hope and expectation is that users will use this software to address the mandatory code compliance issues and thus have an opportunity to address other performance issues as well. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We consider measures of languages induced by Bernoulli distributions on the letters of a given alphabet. Of particular interest are languages having a measure equal to 1 with respect to all positive Bernoulli distributions (Bernoulli sets). The main object of the paper is to study conditions ensuring that a given language has a finite Bernoulli completion, i.e., it is included in a finite Bernoulli set. Some characterizations of languages having finite Bernoulli completions are given. In the case of a two-letter alphabet it is shown that one can decide whether a finite language has a finite Bernoulli completion or not. Moreover, any finite code over a two-letter alphabet has a finite Bernoulli completion. Finally, we prove that two finite languages have the same measure with respect to all Bernoulli distributions if and only if each of the two languages can be obtained from the other by using a finite number of times three suitable measure-invariant transformations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Let V be a finite set with q distinct elements. For a subset C of , denote the variance of the average Hamming distance of C. Let and denote the minimum and maximum variance of the average Hamming distance of subsets of with cardinality M, respectively. In this paper, we study and for general q. Using methods from coding theory, we derive upper and lower bounds on , which generalize and unify the bounds for the case . These bounds enable us to determine the exact value for and in several cases. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

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The notion of t-design in a Grassmannian space Gm,n was introduced by the first and last authors and G. Nebe in a previous paper. In the present work, we give a general lower bound for the size of such designs. The method is inspired by Delsarte, Goethals and Seidel work in the case of spherical designs. This leads us to introduce a notion of f-code in Grassmannian spaces, for which we obtain upper bounds, as well as a kind of duality tight-designs/tight-codes. The bounds are in terms of the dimensions of the irreducible representations of the orthogonal group O(n) occurring in the decomposition of the space L2(Gm,n°) of square integrable functions on Gm,n°, the set of oriented Grassmanianns. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Development of a unified fracture risk evaluation method for industry will provide assurance for new innovative constructions in choice of materials and/or fabrication methods and assurance in plant operation. Safe plant operation with extended component life and enhanced decision making processes in run/repair/replace situations is facilitated by validated defect assessment procedures. Guidelines and methodologies for high temperature defect assessment and well developed in-house expertise exist in Europe. However, lack of commonality and very limited validation significantly limit their application. Substantial effort has been made by Industry and Research Organizations during the last decade to generate data and draft codes of practice. A systematic and coordinated approach will produce a validated and easy-to-use unified defect assessment procedure.The present paper gives a review on the high temperature defect assessment procedures which are most commonly used by the EC supported Thematic Network project PLAN partners both in their projects and in their organizations. This is followed by a review of on-going programmes in collaborative EC Projects. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper summarises the report of the committee of inquiry into the collapse, by punching shear, of the Sampoong department store in Seoul, Korea in 1995. It examines the adequacy of the design and calculates, using ACI 318-89, BS 8110-85 and Gardner 96, the contribution of the various deficiencies to the probability of failure. ACI 318 does not predict the collapse but BS 8110 and Gardner 96 predict a large probability of collapse. Both BS 8110 and Gardner 96 include size effect and reinforcement ratio. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Pipe elbows (bends) are considered critical pressurized components in the piping systems and pipelines due to their stress intensification and the effect of bend curvature. They are prone and hence more exposed to different corrosion failure modes than straight pipes. Late detection of such elbow damages can lead to different dangerous and emergency situations which cause environmental disasters, pollution, substantial consumer losses and a serious threat to human life. A comprehensive safety and reliability assessment of pipe elbows, including usage of prediction models, can provide significant increases in the service life of pipelines. It is well known that the limit pressure is an important parameter to assess the piping integrity. In this paper, the integrity assessment of damaged pipeline elbows made of API 5L X52 steel was done within the framework of numerical modeling using the finite element method (FEM) and finite element analysis (FEA). The evaluation of numerically FEM modeled limit pressure in the corroded elbow containing a rectangular parallelepiped-shaped corrosion defect with rounded corners at the intrados section was done and compared to different codes for calculating limit pressure. Moreover, the area with the corrosion defects with different relative defect depth to wall thickness ratios was FEM modeled at the intrados section of the pipe elbow where the highest hoop stress exists. The results showed that the codes for straight pipes could not be applied for the pipe elbows due to the significantly higher error in the obtained limit pressure value compared with numerically FEM obtained results. However, the results for modified codes, adapted for the pipe elbow case using the Goodall formula for calculation of the hoop stress in pipe elbows with defects are pretty consistent with the numerical FEA results. The notch failure assessment diagram (NFAD) was also used for the straight pipe and pipe bends with different corrosion defect depth ratios, while the obtained critical defect depth ratios further highlighted the criticality of pipe elbows as an essential pipeline component. • Integrity of corroded pipe elbow was investigated based on the limit pressure. • A parallelepiped rounded borders corrosion defect was created in the intrados section. • The numerical finite element analyses (FEA) were done to modify the codes. • Two models (modified B31G and DNV RP-F101) agrees well with FEA results. • The notch failure assessment diagram (NFAD) confirms the pipe elbow criticality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]