A Novel Technique for Improving Cyclic Behavior of Steel Connections Equipped with Smart Memory Alloys.

Residual drifts are an important measure of post-earthquake functionality in bridges and buildings, and can determine whether the structure remains fit for its intended purpose or not. This study aims at investigating numerically, through finite element (FE) analysis in ABAQUS, the cyclic response of exterior steel I beam-hollow column connection using welded shape memory alloys (SMA) bolts and seat angles. This is followed by validating the numerical model using an accredited experimental data available in the literature through different techniques, (1) SMA bolts, (2) SMA angles, (3) SMA bolts and angles. The parameters investigated included: SMA type, SMA angle thickness, SMA bolt diameter, SMA angle stiffener and SMA angle direction. The cyclic performance of the steel connection was enhanced further by varying the bolt diameter, plate thickness, angle type and direction. The results revealed that the connections equipped with a combination of SMA plates and SMA angles reduced the residual drift by up to 94%, and doubled the self-centering capability compared to conventional steel connections. Moreover, the parametric analysis showed that Fe-based SMA members could be a good alternative to NiTi based SMA members for improving the self-centering capability and reducing the residual drifts of conventional steel connections.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Organ Donation Among the Population of Al-Majma'ah Region, Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND: Organ donation plays a pivotal role in addressing the global demand for transplantable organs and saving lives. The success of organ transplantation relies not only on medical advancements but also on the willingness of communities to participate in organ donation programs. In Saudi Arabia, specifically within the Al-Majma'ah region, understanding the dynamics of knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to organ donation is crucial for promoting a sustainable and ethical organ donation system. METHODS: A cross-sectional, retrospective study was utilized in this research, employing data from a sample of 564 participants from the general population of the Al-Majma'ah region, Saudi Arabia. The participants completed a self-administered questionnaire and ensured anonymity. RESULTS: About 545 (96.6%) respondents were familiar with the concept of organ donation, and 455 (80.7%) participants recognized the necessity for the blood groups of the donor and recipient to match before the transplant process. About 412 (73.0%) participants agreed with the practice of organ donation with 326 (57.8%) expressing support for the practice. About 417 (73.9%) participants reported that their religion permits or endorses organ donation/transplantation. A total of 151 individuals (26.8%) had a low knowledge level, with total scores below 50% (6 or lower). In contrast, 280 people (4.7%) demonstrated a moderate level of knowledge (scoring between 50% and 75%) (7 to 9). Additionally, 133 individuals (23.5%) showcased a high level of knowledge, with scores exceeding 75% (10 or higher). The study established a statistically significant association between age, marital status with p-values < 0.05 (0.001*), and the knowledge score toward organ donation. However, gender and monthly household income were not significantly associated with knowledge score toward organ transplant with p-values (p-value > 0.05). CONCLUSION: The research findings indicated a moderate level of knowledge and a positive attitude toward organ donation among the general population of the Al-Majma'ah region in Saudi Arabia. Age and marital status were found to be significantly associated with the knowledge score toward organ donation. The study noted the desire and willingness to save lives through organ donation by the residents of the Al-Majma'ah region in Saudi Arabia.