Technology
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N-of-1 trials
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N-of-1 clinical trials, also known as single-subject trials, focus on identifying the most effective treatment for individual patients by employing rigorous, data-driven methodologies. This essay explores the potential of N-of-1 trials in advancing personalized medicine, their historical context, design considerations, and future directions, emphasizing their compatibility with the broader goals of evidence-based medicine. While they…
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Safety of deteriorated structures
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The collapse of various civil engineering structures-such as bridges, dams, and buildings-has become a common occurrence in recent years, often attributed to aging and material degradation (refer to relevant news reports). Many of these structures were constructed decades ago, with assumed service lives typically ranging from 50 to 80 years. For instance, the design life…
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Use of genetic algorithm for optimum proportioning of concrete
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Genetic Algorithms (GAs) have emerged as a robust optimization technique within civil engineering, particularly in the design of concrete mix proportions. Their inherent ability to address complex, multi-objective, and nonlinear optimization problems makes them well-suited for this application. Conventional mix design methodologies often rely on iterative, trial-and-error approaches that are both time-consuming and may fail…
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Implementing AI in civil engineering
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Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming civil engineering by offering innovative solutions that enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability across a variety of applications. From optimizing structural designs to predicting maintenance needs and improving construction management, AI technologies are reshaping traditional practices. By analysing vast datasets, AI enables engineers to make informed decisions, leading to smarter…
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Fatigue stress and RC deterioration
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Fatigue stress represents a critical factor in the progressive deterioration of reinforced concrete (RC) structures, particularly under conditions involving repeated loading and corrosive environments. The synergistic interaction between fatigue and corrosion, commonly referred to as corrosion-fatigue, significantly intensifies the degradation of structural materials, thereby diminishing overall structural integrity and long-term durability. Fatigue stress originates from…
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Radius of earth (classical trigonometry)
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Suppose that, while lying on a beach near the equator watching the sun set over a calm ocean, you start a stopwatch just as the top of the sun disappears. You then stand, elevating your eyes by a height H=1.7m, and stop the watch when the top of the sun again disappears. If the elapsed…
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Techniques to make transparent wood
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Transparent wood represents a major breakthrough in materials science, blending the inherent qualities of wood with improved optical transparency. This is accomplished by removing lignin-the component responsible for light scattering-through specialized processing techniques. Glycerol infiltration One effective technique for producing transparent wood involves the infiltration of glycerol into wood specimens. In a notable study, poplar…
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Error correction in quantum computers
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Quantum computing holds the potential to revolutionize fields ranging from cryptography to materials science and optimization problems. However, one of the most pressing obstacles to realizing this potential is the fragility of quantum information. In classical computing, data corruption is rare and can be handled using well-established error correction codes. In contrast, quantum bits-or qubits-are…
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Robotics for aging populations
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Robotics for aging populations is an emerging field that addresses the growing need for innovative solutions to support the elderly. As the global population ages, with projections indicating a significant increase in the number of individuals aged 65 and older, robotics offers promising avenues to enhance the quality of life for older adults. These technologies…
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3D Organ printing and regenerative medicine
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Introduction 3D organ printing, also known as bioprinting, is a revolutionary technology that has emerged as a powerful tool in regenerative medicine. By enabling the precise deposition of cells, biomaterials, and bioactive molecules, bioprinting allows for the creation of complex tissue constructs and functional organs. This technology addresses critical challenges in healthcare, such as organ…