Branches of complexity theory have been widely employed in geographic information systems (GIS) to explore phenomena that appear in urban environments. Among these, space syntax, as an urban morphological application of complexity theory, has attracted increasing attention in recent years. Accordingly, many computer-based tools have been developed to realize related analysis spatially, especially those that can be integrated as functions with GIS. In this thesis, a space syntax tool – Axwoman – is redeveloped and tested as an extension of ESRI ArcGIS Desktop in order to fulfill certain specific needs in urban morphological analysis. It is primarily used to calculate all space syntax measures for several urban systems and to explore the relationships between these measures. To meet the needs for this new version of Axwoman, several functions have been updated and changed, for drawing, coloring, and classifying axial lines as maps for visual thinking; ticking overpasses and excluding them from computing space syntax parameters; and integrating AxialGen and Axwoman. In accordance with this, several case studies have been performed on the urban street networks in large cities. In this paper, Stockholm was chosen as the study object at both the urban level and the building level. After the scaling analysis and time efficiency analysis, the results are also interpreted from a structural point of view and in terms of how the function of space is subject to its morphological structure. Finally, the connectivity of axial lines (a spatial measurement in space syntax theory) was found to follow a power-law distribution. Through this work, the new edition of Axwoman generating satisfactory outputs, the research have proved that the connectivity of axial lines follows a lognormal distribution or a power-law-like distribution, which is one of the heavy-tailed distributions. In addition, it was have found that axial lines better for capture the underlying urban morphologies showed in their study on redefining the generated axial lines from street center lines. Moreover, fewer longest axial lines will show up on the maps, just as coincidental as the shape of mental maps, which proved that the axial line representations can be a powerful tool for urban studies.

Nous avons abordé, dans ce travail, la problématique posée par la conception des machines synchrones à aimants permanents à flux axial (MSAPFA) intégrées dans un système éolien de petite puissance. Les objectifs ont été de mettre au point une méthodologie générale de dimensionnement et le développement d'une méthode de modélisation de MSAPFAs par le calcul analytique des champs à partir du formalisme de Maxwell. Le défi de cette modélisation demeure toujours le compromis à faire entre temps de calcul et précision des résultats. Un outil d'analyse analytique issu de la résolution des équations de Maxwell par la méthode de séparation des variables dans les différentes régions de la machine, a donc été développé. Un modèle thermique nodale de la structure de MSAPFA est ensuite mis au point. La construction de ce modèle conduit à un système d'équations algébriques linéaires dont la solution nous renseigne sur la température aux nœuds sensibles de la machine. Ce modèle thermique est suivi par un modèle mécanique qui s'appuie sur les expressions proposées par le modèle de Young permettant ainsi de contrôler la déflexion des disques rotoriques en choisissant la bonne épaisseur de ces derniers à partir des efforts axiaux. Ces trois modèles constituent le modèle dimensionnant multi-physique de la machine. Pour l'optimisation non linéaire, un algorithme génétique d'optimisation multi-contrainte (GENOCOP) associé un algorithme d'optimisation multi-objectif (SPEA_II) sont choisis. C'est une méthode élitiste qui utilise une archive externe pour le stockage des solutions Pareto et effectue sa mise à jour au fur et à mesure des générations. Le couplage du SPEA_II avec le GENOCOP nous a permis de développer le code d'optimisation OPTIMSAP implémenté sous Matlab et dédié au dimensionnement des machines électriques. Le code d'optimisation OPTIMSAP développé a été enfin utilisé pour le dimensionnement d'un système aérogénérateur de 10 kW à base d'une machine synchrone à aimants permanents à flux axial couplée à un redresseur à diodes suivi d'un hacheur dévolteur et débitant sur un banc de batteries de 120V en parallèle avec une charge de consommation.

Proper embryonic patterning requires precise spatio-temporal regulation of retinoic acid (RA) activity. Morphogenesis can be regulated at the level of RA distribution, mainly via its synthesis and catabolism by the RALDH and CYP26 enzymes respectively, and at the level of RA-mediated transcription through activation of its cognate nuclear receptor, the retinoic acid receptors (RARs) α, β, and γ. Loss of Cyp26b1 leads to increased local levels of RA in tissues such as the limb and craniofacial structures, and results in neonatal lethality. Visible gross phenotypic defects in neonates include phocomelia (shortening of the limbs), adactyly (missing digits), micrognathia (shortened lower jaw), and open eyes at birth. In addition, these embryos exhibit cleft palate and have a paucity of vibrissal (whisker) and pelage (hair) follicles. We have previously shown that ablating the gene encoding RARγ in a Cyp26a1-null background was able to rescue the caudal abnormalities associated with improper RA exposure in these embryos by limiting aberrant RA signalling, and thus rescuing expression domains of target genes involved in caudal development. I show here that ablating Rarg in a Cyp26b1-null background is able to partially rescue the defects associated with loss of CYP26B1. These include a reduction in the severity of limb defects, rescued vibrissae, fused eyelids, and recovered aspects of axial skeletal development. This compound-null murine model illustrates that RARγ plays a specific role in transducing the RA signal within tissues that are affected by the loss of CYP26B1. Further molecular analysis of the pathways responsible for directing limb bud outgrowth and eyelid fusion provided insight into pathways regulated by RARγ in these rescued tissues. / Thesis (Ph.D, Pathology & Molecular Medicine) -- Queen's University, 2010-04-01 15:38:52.05

An experimental program was conducted to investigate some aspects of in-plane behaviour of masonry infilled steel frames. Eight concrete masonry infilled steel frames, consisting of three fully grouted and five partially grouted infills, were tested under combined lateral and axial loading. All specimens were constructed using one-third scale concrete masonry units. The in-plane lateral load was gradually increased at the frame top beam level until the failure of the specimen while an axial load was applied to the top beam and held constant. The parameters of the study included axial load, extent of grouting, opening, and aspect ratio of the infill. The experimental results were used, along with other test results from the literature, to evaluate the efficacy of stiffness and strength predictions by some theoretical methods with a focus on Canadian and American design codes. Cracking pattern, stiffness, failure mode, crack strength, and ultimate strength of the specimens were monitored and reported. Presence of axial load was found to increase the ultimate strength of the infilled frame but had no marked effect on its stiffness. Two specimens exhibited “splitting failure” due to axial load. Partially grouted specimens developed extensive diagonal cracking prior to failure whereas fully grouted specimens showed little or no cracking prior to failure. An increase in grouting increased the ultimate strength of the frame system but reduced its ductility. Presence of opening reduced the ultimate strength of the infilled frame and increased its ductility but its effect on the stiffness of the frame system was not significant. A review of current Canadian and American design codes showed that the Canadian code significantly overestimates the stiffness of infilled frames whereas the American code provides improved predictions for stiffness of these frame systems. Both design codes underestimate the strength of masonry infilled steel frames but grossly overestimate the strength of masonry infilled RC frames. / Masonry infilled steel frames tested under combined axial and lateral loading. Behaviour as affected by axial load, grouting, aspect ratio and openings discussed. Correlation between axial load level and the infill lateral resistance examined. Efficacy of the Canadian and American masonry standards on infill design was examined.

A total of 47 lightweight aggregate concrete columns were constructed from four different types of lightweight aggregate and provided with different quantities of transverse reinforcement. The specimens were tested under a monotonically increasing level of compressive axial load. The rate of load application was varied from pseudo-static to the rate of dynamic loading expected during a major seismic excitation. The results from the experimental testing of the column members were used to derive a theoretical stress-strain model to predict the behaviour of lightweight aggregate concrete members under imposed loads. The stress-strain model was derived to predict the response of both lightweight aggregate and conventional weight concretes with compressive strengths up to and including 100 MPa. The model was calibrate against the experimental results obtained in this study and previously tested lightweight aggregate and conventional weight concrete columns. A series of pseudo-cyclic moment-curvature analyse were undertaking using the derived stress-strain model, to predict the behaviour of the lightweight aggregate concrete members when subjected to axial load and flexure. The results were compared to the confinement requirements in the potential plastic hinge regions of column elements required by the New Zealand Concrete Structures Standard, NZS3101: 1995. It was determined that the confinement requirements of NZS3101: 1995 were could be used to accurately determine the required quantity of transverse reinforcement for lightweight aggregate concrete members with a concrete density greater than 1700 kg/m3. A total of four lightweight aggregate concrete beam column subassemblies were constructed and tested under reversed cyclic lateral loading. The results from the specimen indicate that cyclic behaviour of the lightweight aggregate concrete was similar to conventional weight concrete. However the bond capacity between the longitudinal reinforcement and the surrounding concrete was weaker than previously tested conventional weight concrete members.

In this investigation, casing mounted high frequency response pressure transducers are used to characterize the flow behavior near the aerodynamic stability limit of a low speed single stage axial flow compressor. Time variant pressure measurements are acquired at discrete operating points up to the stall inception point and during the transition to rotating stall, for a length of time no shorter than 900 rotor revolutions. The experimental data is analyzed using multiple techniques in the time and frequency domains. Experimental results have shown an increase in the breakdown of flow periodicity as the flow coefficient is reduced. Below a flow coefficient of 0.40 a two node rotating disturbance develops with a propagation velocity of approximately 23% rotor speed in the direction of rotation. During rotating stall, a single stall cell is present with a propagation velocity of approximately 35% rotor speed. The stall inception events present are indicative of a modal stall inception.

The advantages of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composite material have attracted structural and architectural engineers as alternative construction materials of the traditional wood, steel and concrete. Concrete-filled FRP tubes (CFFTs) system is one of the most promising applications of the FRP composit material. This innovative integrated system can protect RC structures from aggressive environmental conditions; sequentially expand the service life of structures. Nevertheless, limited knowledge is available on the CFFT system at extreme service environments. Data related to durability of the CFFT as integrated system comparing with conventional ones is one of the major challenges that need to be addressed. These data are moer required prior to the widespread acceptance and implementation of FRP materials in civil infrastructure. Farther, comprehensive databases in this specific are critical to provide designers and practicing engineers with the knowledge to select the best solution toward achieving a sustainable built environment. This thesis focuses on evaluating the short and long term effect of freze-thaw cycles on the mechanical behavior of the filament wound glass-FRP (GFRP) tubes. In addition, the thesis evaluating the axial performances of reinforced and unreinforced CFFT columns through experimental and theoretical study. To fulfill the objectives of this research, an experimental program has been designed to examine three main parts. (I) Mechanical properties of the GFRP tubes; (II) The axial behavior of CFFT cylinders; (III) The axial behavior of CFFT reinforced and unreinforced columns. The effect of five parameters and their interactions were investigated; namely, the effect of different freze-thaw cycles (in dry air, frsh and/or salt water), number of cycles (100 and/or 300 cycles), two different thicknesses (2.65 mm and 6.4 mm) of the GFRP tube. The influence of using different types of internal longitudinal reinforcement (steel, GFRP, and carbon FRP bars) and the type of transverse reinforcements (spiral steel or FRP tubes) are included in the test variables. Based on the finding of experimental investigation regarding mechanical properties of the GFRP tubes (part I), neither the type nor the number of freze--thaw cycles affect the strength of GFRP tube used in this study. However, increasing in the stiffness, reductions in the strains and transition in failure mechanisms are identified after 300 freze-thaw cycles. The experimental results of axial compression tests on CFFT cylinders (part II) indicated low influence of the freze-thaw cycles on the average ultimate strength of CFFT tube with the large thickness. While, significant and sever degradation was reflected on the behavior of CFFT cylinders with the small thickness after 300 freze-thaw cycles. Based on the experimental test results of (part II) environmental reduction factors were proposed to consider the effect freze/thaw cycles on the strength capacity of CFFT cylinders. Also, the regression analysis was used to predict the service life environmental reduction Factors to design CFFT member for up to 75 years. In addition, an assessment of selected FRP-confined models has been presented to predict the ultimate strength of CFFT cylinders based on the test results of (part I). Finally, comparisons between the experimental results and those predicted by the selected models were presented. The experimental investigation on the performance of reinforced CFFT columns (part III) indicated that the freze-thaw exposure brings about individual degradation, in different levels, in the component of the CFFT (GFRP tube, concrete and reinforcement) as integrated systems. This degradation resulted in reduction in the axial carrying capacities of the conditioned columns. Nevertheless, an increase in compressive strength of the CFFT columns was evident over the RC conventional columns. Based on the test results of this (part III), environmental reduction factors were proposed to account for the effect of freze/thaw cycles on the axial load capacity of reinforced and unreinforced CFFT columns. The data obtained from the test results of (part I), predicted confined compressive strength optained from (part II) and the proposed environmental reduction factors from (part III) were used in the ACI440-2R-08 and CAN/CSA S806-08 design equations to predict the nominal capacity of CFFT columns in sever environmental condition.

Cette thèse porte sur l'analyse d'un phénomène particulièrement important dérivant des conséquences mécaniques des transformations de phases solide-solide dans les aciers : la plasticité de transformation ou TRIP (Transformation Induced Plasticity) et son interaction avec la plasticité classique. Ce sujet est abordé à la fois par des investigations expérimentales et par une approche de modélisation numérique, pour les transformations martensitiques.

The emergence of closed-loop Brayton cycle power plants, such as the PBMR, resulted in the need to simulate start-up transients for industrial multi-stage axial flow compressors operating at subsonic conditions. This implies that the delivery pressure and power requirements must be predicted for different mass flow rates and rotational speeds while operating in the first and fourth quadrants on the compressor performance charts. Therefore, an analytical performance prediction model for subsonic multi-stage axial flow compressors had to be developed that can be integrated into a generic network analysis software code such as Flownex. For this purpose, performance calculations based on one-dimensional mean-line analysis demonstrated good accuracy, provided that the correct models for losses, incidence and deviation are used. Such a model is therefore the focus of this study. A preliminary analytical performance prediction code, with the capability of interchanging between different deviation and loss models is presented. Reasonably complex loss models are integrated in association with the correct incidence and deviation models in a software package called "Engineering Equation Solver" (EES). The total pressure loss calculations are based on a superposition of theoretically separable loss components that include the following: blade profile losses, secondary losses and annulus losses. The fundamental conservation equations for mass, momentum and energy for compressible "rotating pipe" flow were implemented into the performance prediction code. Performance prediction models were validated against experimental data and evaluated according to their ease of implementation. Verification was done by comparing simulation results with experimental work done by Von Backstrom. This includes a calculation to determine the uncertainty in the experimental results. Furthermore, since the conventional definition of isentropic efficiency breaks down at the boundaries of quadrants on the performance charts, a new non-dimensional power formulation is presented that allows for the calculation of the compressor power in all of the relevant quadrants. Good comparison was found between simulation results and measurements in the first and fourth quadrant of operation. / Thesis (M.Ing. (Nuclear Engineering))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2007.

Some pathogenic bacteria derive significant amounts of iron heme from their hosts. In this study we investigated SiaA, a heme binding protein from Streptococcus pyogenes. The wildtype methionine79 putative axial ligand was mutated to alanine. SiaA M79A was expressed in E. coli in three production runs, lysed by sonication or French press, and purified by fast protein liquid chromatography (FPLC). Nickel affinity FPLC was found to give much purer SiaA when 30 mM imidazole was added to the binding buffer. The protocol using extensive sonication resulted in SiaA weighing 30464 Da. The protocol using French press resulted in SiaA weighting 33358 Da. Despite the difference in masses, the two forms of SiaA interacted with heme similarly.