Anti-seismic Value of Watchtower-like Folk Residence on the Central Plain of China by the Insinuation of Typical Cases

Through the survey of ancient residences on the Central Plain of China, several ancient residences have been selected as typical cases. By combining with residential features of watchtower, characteristics of these residences have been analyzed carefully. In order to reasonably illustrate anti-seismic value of watchtower-like residences, their characteristics have been concluded in the perspective of plane form, structural arrangement, and anti-seismic construction measures. The plane form is of tower; the plane and vertical surfaces are regular and even; the wall's thickness is reasonable, and doors and windows are few and small; and bonded stone has been set in the wall, resisting compression.

Scientific and technical aspects of yogurt fortification:A review

Food fortification is one of the most important processes for improvement of the nutrients quality and quantity in food.It can be a very cost effective public health intervention.Due to the high consumption rate of dairy products such as yogurt,fortification of these products will effectively reduce or prevent diseases associated with nutritional deficiencies.The aim of this investigation is to study the technical aspects involved in production of different types of fortified yogurts and their role in disease prevention and correction of deficiencies.In this paper,firstly,fortification is defined and the main reasons behind carrying out this process are presented and then yogurt production process and a variety of minerals,vitamins,and functional ingredients which are used in the process are briefly discussed.©2015 Beijing Academy of Food Sciences.Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V.All rights reserved.

Anti-seismic behavior of HRB400 reinforced steel bars

The properties of anti-seismic HRB400 steel bars with 25 mm diameter were systematically investigated. The results showed that the properties of the HRB400 reinforced steel bars had been greatly enhanced comparing with HRB335 steel bars, i.e. coordination of strength and ductility, strain-aging sensibility, low temperature impact toughness, weld ability and high strain low cycle fatigue. The ductile-brittle transit temperatures of hot-rolled and strain-aged steel bars were evaluated as –17 °C and ?8 °C respectively, and the low temperature impact toughness of HRB400 steel bars remains to be improved. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and electron diffraction showed little vanadium existed in ferrite as VN, most of which existed in pearlite as alloy cementite which resulted in the declination of impact toughness. Methods were suggested to improve the anti- seismic properties of steel bars.

Planning and Implementing Food Fortification Programs to Combat Micronutrient Malnutrition: Iron

Iron deficiency anemia is the most prevalent nutritional deficiency in the world and food fortification is a cost-effective approach to combat it. This paper reviews the food fortification process with micronutrients, with special emphasis on iron and the most critical steps and common difficulties found when implementing a program. The first step is to measure the magnitude of the problem and the groups affected by iron deficiency and anemia, to determine if there is a need for fortification. Then the adequate iron compound and vehicle should be selected, to obtain a bioavailable form of iron in a frequently consumed food item without changing the taste, appearance or cooking characteristics of the final food item or complete meals containing it, to assure the acceptance by consumers. Before implementation, bioavailability studies are in order for the fortified food item and for complete meals especially typical or traditional meals, followed by field studies and pilot tests. Once implemented, the program should be monitored and evaluated continuously, and the impact on health assessed periodically to give the program the flexibility for continuation made changes or finalization when necessary. Other key elements for successful implementation of food fortification programs include the presence of a viable food industry;available channels for food marketing and distribution;a health care system to identify and monitor micronutrient malnutrition in the population;institutions for education, treatment and evaluation of the impact of the program;and continuous and effective input into the planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the intervention to ensure sustainability of the intervention.

The Introduction of European Fortification in the Late Ming Period

In the late Ming period,Xu Guangqi and other Catholic literati were actively involved with military affairs because of the invasion of the Manchu forces and the threat of uprisings.The story of how they imported European cannons and gunners from Macao is now quite famous.However,the introduction of European fortifications,mainly the trace Italienne,in the same period is still relatively unknown.Xu Guangqi and his student Sun Yuanhua exerted considerable efforts in advocating European-style bastions.Xu not only received help from Jesuits,but also support from some Fujianese who were familiar with Intramuros,the Spanish walled city of Manila.In addition to Xu and Sun,Han Lin and Han Yun(also Xu’s students)prepared a Chinese treatise on European fortification architecture based on Italian sources and tried to put the knowledge into practice.Another relevant figure is Ma Weicheng,who allegedly directed the building of 32 angled bastions in three cities around 1640.Although a few recorded writings and practices of constructing European-style fortification appeared in the first half of the seventeenth century,soon afterwards the art of trace Italienne met its end prematurely in China.To a great extent,the swift collapse of the Ming dynasty eliminated the possibility of spreading the new defense technology.Throughout the eighteenth century,the Qing dynasty enjoyed long-term peace,and the warfare at the frontiers brought few threats to the city walls.There was thus little urgency to develop innovative defensive works and European fortification sunk into oblivion until the mid-nineteenth century.

Research on the seismic fortification level of offshore platform in Bohai Sea and adjacent areas

API code is introduced at first, and then a comparison of seismic character and seismic hazard between Bohai and Southern California is carried out. The analysis indicates both the seismic frequency and intensity and the seismic hazard of Bohai are much weaker than that of Southern California. API code states the strength level and deformation level of permanent structures in Southern California takes 200 a and several hundred to a few thousand years respectively. But in the reference codes in China, the seismic levels take 500 a and 10000 a for strength design and deformation design, and it seems too conservative. In China, the deformation level of class A structure takes 2%-3% probabilities of exceedance in reference period 100 a, and that of class B and C often takes 2%-3% in 50 a. Now that offshore platforms may cause server subsequent risk, it is safe to take 1% in 30 a as its deformation design level. On the basis of the above analyses and social economic level and the consistency with present codes, the strength design level and deformation design level of Chinese offshore platforms is suggested to take 200 a and 3000 a respectively.

Protein Fortification of Corn <i>Tortillas</i>: Effects on Physicochemical Characteristics, Nutritional Value and Acceptance

The aim of this study was to evaluate the texture of corn dough as well as the nutritional quality and acceptance of corn cakes (tortillas) made either with a readymade commercial corn flour (CCF) or with a traditional way (nixtamal) both fortified with lys + tryp (L + T) or with a protein concentrate from Phaseolus lunatus added with L + T (PC + L + T). All treatments were analyzed to investigate the physical properties of the dough and tortillas as well as their physicochemical and nutritional quality. Results showed that cohesion was affected (p tortillas made with nixtamal showed no difference. Adhesion was not affected by treatments. Weight loss increased only in the fortified tortillas made with CCF (p tortillas increased with the fortification being the highest value 0.96 N. Color was not affected in tortillas made with CCF (p tortillas made with CCF and fortified with PC + L + T. Acceptance was greater for tortillas fortified with L+T alone. Protein fortification of tortillas made with either CCF or nixtamal is feasible using either L + T together or in combination with a PC from Phaseolus lunatus improving their nutritional value without negative effects on their physicochemical characteristics or acceptance.

Large, moderate, small earthquakes and seismic fortification criterion

This paper discusses the relation between two-step seismic design and the standard of probability of exceedance, and the relation of three-levels seismic ground motion parameters given by probability method and comprehensive probability method. The relative size relations of the ground motions with 2%, 10%, 63% probability of exceedance in 50 years, namely large earthquake, moderate earthquake, and small earthquake, are discussed through a practical example of seismic hazard analysis. The methods to determine seismic fortification criterion are discussed.

Optimization of Bioactive Fortification in Apple Snacks through Vacuum Impregnation Using Response Surface Methodology

Fortification of apple slices with t-resveratrol glucoside was obtained by vacuum impregnation (VI) of apple slices with a solution containing grape juice using response surface methodology (RSM). Three independent variables of the VI process: vacuum pressure, application time and relaxation time, were coded at five levels in a central composite design. The VI-treated and dried apple slices were analyzed for t-resveratrol glucoside concentration and textural attributes (gradient and linear distance). Multiple response optimization revealed the following optimum VI condi-tions for the bioactive enrichment and improved textural quality of dried apple slices: vacuum pressure of 6 in. of Hg, application time of 10 min, and relaxation time of 22.5 min.

A knowledge-to-action approach to food fortification: Guiding principles for the design of fortification programs as a means of effectively addressing micronutrient malnutrition

The gap that exists between research and the dissemination and implementation of research findings has been well established. Food fortification, one of the most cost-effective means of addressing micronutrient malnutrition, is no exception. With decades of implementation experience, there is need to strengthen mechanisms that effectively broadcast proven strategies to promote the successful implementation of fortification programs in changing, challenging, and dynamic environments. This requires clear channels of communication, well-defined in-country leadership, and a streamlined and focused approach that can be adapted to country-specific contexts. Based on experience designing and implementing fortification programs throughout Africa and a broad understanding of past successes and failures, a model is proposed that articulates often over-looked program elements critical to design and implementation.

Iodine and Selenium Intake in a Sample of Women of Childbearing Age in Palmerston North, New Zealand after Mandatory Fortification of Bread with Iodised Salt

Iodine deficiency is a worldwide public health problem, which has long been observed in many parts of the world, including New Zealand (NZ). The aim of this study was to assess iodine and selenium intake among women of childbearing age in Palmerston North, New Zealand post mandatory fortification of bread with iodised salt. Fifty women of childbearing age completed a researcher-led questionnaire, including a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Iodine and selenium were analysed in 24-hour urine samples. The median urinary iodine concentration (UIC) was 65 μg/l with 30% below 50 μg/l;representing mild iodine deficiency according to the World Health Organization. The estimated median daily iodine intake (130 μg/day) was higher than the Estimated Average Requirement (100 μg/day) and higher than seen in women prior to fortification. The median excretion of selenium (32 μg/day) was slightly above level suggested as adequate (30 μg/day) and estimated median intake (57 μg/day) was higher than Estimated Average Requirement (50 μg/day). Selenium and iodine excretion were significantly correlated (Spearman’s rank order;r(50) = 0.547, p 0.001). The major contributors to iodine intake were milk (36%), bread (25%) and fish/seafood (15%). Participants had a mean intake of 2.5 slices of bread/day, which contributed approximately 14 to 20 μg of iodine. The majority of participants (74%) had iodised salt at home, but less than half (48%) used iodised salt exclusively. In conclusion, despite the mandatory fortification of bread with iodised salt in NZ, UIC of the study population indicates iodine deficiency although their estimated dietary intakes appear adequate. It is essential that government initiatives to improve iodine status are evaluated for their efficacy.

Storming Fortifications

Feel for boulders while crossing the river. ---Deng Xiaoping After a 20-year track record of extraordinary successes, however, China’sleaders now confront the toughest issues since reforms began in 1978. The domes-tic economic growth rate is declining, and the surrounding region is confronting

Lectotype optimization of mid-highrise residential building based on site conditions and seismic fortification intensity

A multi-objective lectotype optimization model based on site conditions and seismic fortification intensity is presented for mid-highrise residential buildings taking into account multiple items such as the original investment, disaster losses and maintenance cost, the integral stiffness, the total ductility, the construction period, and so on. A Three-Scale Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy process is proposed by introducing the Three-Scale Analytical Hierarchy process and the trapezoid fuzzy number. The result of a calculation example shows that the T-FAHP is practical.

The Planned Conservation of the Urban Fortifications of Tuscany: Satellite Interferometry as an Innovative Monitoring Technology for Asset Management

The “Monitoring City Walls” research project by the University of Pisa approaches planned conservation as a process that pursues an in-depth understanding of historic city walls and their surroundings to define a system of effective risk prevention. This multidisciplinary research adopts monitoring strategies and technologies at the large scale and in relationship to natural and urban conditions. The underlying logic frames the conservation of these historic fortifications within the more general mitigation of risks generated by context. The research aims to develop an innovative approach to monitoring ancient defensive structures in historical towns. The integrated use of advanced technologies allows for the control and, most importantly, advance identification of possible risks. These new technologies, in particular satellite interferometry, make it possible to improve and increase the operational capacity of monitoring processes by facilitating the acquisition and investigation of data relative to the system defined by ancient city walls and their surroundings. These technologies also represent a cost-effective tool for managing the important transition from the observation and study of individual monuments to the monitoring of large monumental complexes or even entire historical centers.

The Ultimate Anti-Seismic System

In general, of construction projects, utility anti-seismic technologies, such as hydraulic tie rod or tie rod structural vibration control system, assess efficiency and safety in node structures from earthquakes risk. According the building construction framework, we exanimate, with experiments, the mechanism of reaction and a patent idea of anti-seismic system with potential conclusions, through using different methods, such as of horizontal seismic insulation, design with elongated rigid columns and design columns without ductility. We provide that we made strong foundation in earthquakes, solar-wind and utility power structural systems and tornados effects in lightweight constructions. We suggest that may fix to existing or under design construction like bridges.

Anti-seismic research on nuclear engineering siting

Nuclear engineering belongs to significant project;there is higher requirement on sitings.The study has discussed basic factors of selecting sites,anti-seismic research on sitings including the seismic ground motion,probability methods of seismic hazard analysis as well as interaction about structure and foundation,meanwhile provide the reason for nuclear engineering selecting sites.

Study on the Seismic Fortification Criteria of Offshore Platforms in the Bohai Sea

This paper analyzes the seismicity and seismic risk distribution in the Bohai Sea. Based on the seismic design parameters of 46 platforms in the Bohai Sea, a statistic analysis is made on the ratios of the peak accelerations for different probability levels. In accordance with the two-stage design method, a scheme of two design seismic levels is proposed, and two fortification goals are established respectively for strength level earthquakes and ductility level earthquakes. Through analogy and comparison to the Chinese seismic code for buildings, it is proposed that the probability level for the strength and ductility level earthquakes takes return periods of 200a and 1000～2500a respectively, and we further expounded on its rationality. Finally, the fortification parameters in the sub-regions of Bohai Sea area are given in the light of seismic risk zonation and ground motion division. This article is a summary of experiences from many years of offshore platform seismic fortification work, and an exploratory study on the seismic fortification standards of offshore platforms in China, which may provide some references for the establishment of the standard.

Study on the Relationship of Seismic Design Ground Motion at Different Fortification Levels in the Xinjiang Region

The seismic risk analysis results of 79 cities in Xinjiang are presented, and the bedrock peak ground accelerations under three seismic levels and their ratios are discussed. Then, the relationship between earthquake environments and the seismic risk analysis results of different exceeding probabilities are researched. The results show that minor and major earthquake motion parameters calculated from moderate earthquakes do not have a consistent probability and the ratio of bedrock peak accelerations under different exceedance probabilities are dosdy correlated with earthquake environments.

A Comparison of Domestic and Foreign Seismic Fortification Standards for Electrical Equipment

It is of great significance to make comparative analyses of seismic fortification criteria at home and abroad for improving the anti-seismic capability of electrical equipment and revising the relevant national standards.A brief overview of American,Japanese,IEC standards and Chinese seismic design codes for electrical equipment is presented.Differences between these seismic fortification standards of electrical equipment are compared and analyzed in respect of the goal and level of seismic fortification and the seismic design spectrum.The advantages and disadvantages of Chinese standards are pointed out.Through learning from foreign experience on the determination of seismic fortification standards,recommendations are made for the improvement and revision of Chinese seismic fortification standards for electrical equipment.

The Ultimate Anti-Seismic Design Method

The design mechanisms and methods of the invention are intended to minimize problems related to the safety of structures in the event of natural phenomena such as earthquakes, tornadoes, and strong winds. It is achieved by controlling the deformations of the structure. Damage and deformation are closely related concepts since the control of deformations also controls the damage. The design method of applying artificial compression to the ends of all longitudinal reinforced concrete walls and, at the same time, connecting the ends of the walls to the ground using ground anchors placed at the depths of the boreholes, transfers the inertial stresses of the structure in the ground, which reacts as an external force in the structure’s response to seismic displacements. The wall with the artificial compression acquires dynamic, larger active cross-section and high axial and torsional stiffness, preventing all failures caused by inelastic deformation. By connecting the ends of all walls to the ground, we control the eigenfrequency of the structure and the ground during each seismic loading cycle, preventing inelastic displacements. At the same time, we ensure the strong bearing capacity of the foundation soil and the structure. By designing the walls correctly and placing them in proper locations, we prevent the torsional flexural buckling that occurs in asymmetrical floor plans, and metal and tall structures. Compression of the wall sections at the ends and their anchoring to the ground mitigates the transfer of deformations to the connection nodes, strengthens the wall section in terms of base shear force and shear stress of the sections, and increases the strength of the cross-sections to the tensile at the ends of the walls by introducing counteractive forces. The use of tendons within the ducts prevents longitudinal shear in the overlay concrete, while anchoring the walls to the foundation not only dissipates inertial forces to the ground but also prevents rotation of the walls, thus maintaining the structural integrity of the beams. The prestressing at the bilateral ends of the walls restores the structure to its original position even inelastic displacements by closing the opening of the developing cracks.