PURPOSES : A model for minimizing cutting loss and determining the optimum layout of blocks in pavements was developed in this study. METHODS : Based on literature review, a model which included constraints such as the amount, volume, overlap, and pattern, was developed to minimize the cutting loss in an irregular pavement shape. The Stach bond, stretcher bond, and herringbone patterns were used in this model. The harmony search and particle swarm algorithms were then used to solve this model. RESULTS : Based on the results of the model and algorithms, the harmony search algorithm yielded better results because of its fast computation time. Moreover, compared to the sample pavement area, it reduced the cutting loss by 20.91%. CONCLUSIONS : The model and algorithms successfully optimized the layout of the pavement and they have potential applications in industries, such as tiling, panels, and textiles.

Sarcomatoid carcinoma is rarely diagnosed as gallbladder cancer. Its aggressive nature, due to the characteristics of both sarcoma and carcinoma, results in a poor prognosis. We report a case of gallbladder sarcomatoid carcinoma in an 82-year-old male who was referred to our hospital for evaluation of gallbladder cancer observed on abdominopelvic computed tomography. The characteristics of the cancer were not confirmed after several imaging modalities. The surgically resected tumor was positive for both cytokeratin and vimentin as revealed via immunohistochemical staining, and a sarcomatoid carcinoma was finally diagnosed. The role of chemotherapy has not yet been identified. Therefore, radiation therapy is planned to reduce the risk of recurrence.

PURPOSES : The objective of this study is to understand blow-up distress and causes in concrete pavement. METHODS : Feasible causes of blow-up and existing models were reviewed based on the literature. Three analytical models were adopted to perform a sensitivity analysis. Input parameters reflected the typical concrete pavement of national expressways. Evaluation of blow-up models was based on the amount of temperature increase and zero stress temperature of the concrete pavement. RESULTS : A review of the literature indicated that the five major causes of blow-up were: increase in temperature and solar radiation, alkaliaggregate reaction (AAR), friction characteristics between the concrete slab and subbase, joint closure (incompressible), and joint freezing. The sensitivity analysis revealed that the coefficient of thermal expansion had the greatest influence on the blow-up safety temperature. CONCLUSIONS : From existing blow-up model results, it could be concluded that the construction of concrete pavement during the winter season was not effective at preventing blow-up. In addition, an equivalent coefficient of thermal expansion that considers slab expansion due to AAR was proposed as a model input parameter for concrete pavement sections damaged by AAR.

PURPOSES : In this study, a numerical clogging model that can be used to realistically visualize the movement of particles in cylindrical permeability test equipment was proposed based on the system coupling of computational fluid dynamics with the discrete element method and experimental permeability test results. This model can also be used to simulate the interaction of dust particles with bedding particles. METHODS: A 4-way system coupling method with multiphase volumes of the fluid model and porous media model was proposed. The proposed model needs to consider the influence of flow on the dust particles, interaction between the dust particles, and interaction between the dust particles and bedding layer particles. The permeability coefficient of the bedding layer in cylindrical permeability test equipment was not calculated by using the permeability test result, but was estimated by using the particle packing model and Ergun model. RESULTS : The numerical simulation demonstrated a good agreement with the experimental test results in terms of permeability and drain time. Additionally, the initial movement of particles due to the sudden drain hole opening was successfully captured by the numerical model. CONCLUSIONS : A 4-way coupling model was sufficient to simulate the water flow and particle movement in cylindrical permeability test equipment. However, additional tests and simulation are required to utilize the model for more realistic block pavement systems.