The introduction of concrete damage plasticity material models has significantly improved the accuracy with which the concrete structural elements can be predicted in terms of their structural response. Research into this method's accuracy in analyzing complex concrete forms has been limited. A damage model combined with a plasticity model, based on continuum damage mechanics, is recommended for effectively predicting and simulating concrete behaviour. The damage parameters, such as compressive and tensile damages, can be defined to simulate concrete behavior in a damaged-plasticity model accurately. This research aims to propose an analytical model for assessing concrete compressive damage based on stiffness deterioration. The proposed method can determine the damage variables at the start of the loading process, and this variable continues to increase as the load progresses until complete failure. The results obtained using this method were assessed through previous studies, whereas three case studies for concrete specimens and reinforced concrete structural elements (columns and gable beams) were considered. Additionally, finite element models were also developed and verified. The results revealed good agreement in each case. Furthermore, the results show that the proposed method outperforms other methods in terms of damage prediction, particularly when damage is calculated using the stress ratio. Doi: 10.28991/CEJ-2022-08-02-03 Full Text: PDF
Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease causes permanent morbidity, premature mortality and great burden to the healthcare system. Smoking is it's most common risk factor and Spirometry is for diagnosing COPD and monitoring its progression.
Objectives: Early detection of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in symptomatic smokers’ ≥ 40years by spirometry.
Methods: A cross sectional study on all symptomatic smokers aged ≥ 40 years attending ten PHCCs in Baghdad Alkarkh and Alrisafa. Those whose FEV1/FVC was <70% on spirometry; after giving bronchodilator, were considered COPD +ve.
Results: Overall, airway obstruction was seen in
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