Design of composite asymmetric cellular beams and beams with large web openings

The design of composite asymmetric cellular beams is not fully covered by existing guidance but is an area of important practical application. Asymmetry in the shape of the cross-section of cellular beams causes development of additional bending moments in the web-posts between closely placed openings. Furthermore, the development of local composite action influences the distribution of forces in the web-flange Tees. The design method presented in this paper takes account of high degrees of asymmetry in the cross-section and also the influence of elongated or rectangular openings. Web-post moments also influence buckling of the web-post between openings, which is accentuated by adjacent long openings. Simplified equations are presented for web-post buckling based on a compression field or 'strut' model, which is calibrated against the results of Finite Element Analyses (FEA). The FEA are also extended to cover the case of highly asymmetric sections and ring-stiffened openings. Closed solutions are presented that enable the designer to calculate the maximum shear force acting on the beam when its load resistance is limited by web-post bending or buckling. For long openings, high pull-out forces may exist in the shear connectors at the edge of the opening. When combined with possible second-order effects due to shear deflection across the opening, it is necessary to limit the magnitude of local composite action due to Vierendeel bending that can be considered in design

Atherosclerotic renovascular disease: A KDIGO (Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes) controversies conference /

The diagnosis and management of atherosclerotic renovascular disease (ARVD) is complex and controversial. Despite evidence from the ASTRAL (2009) and CORAL (2013) randomized controlled trials showing that percutaneous renal artery revascularization did not improve major outcomes compared with best medical therapy alone over 3-5 years, several areas of uncertainty remain. Medical therapy, including statin and antihypertensive medications, has evolved in recent years, and the use of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system blockers is now considered the primary means to treat hypertension in the setting of ARVD. However, the criteria to identify kidneys with renal artery stenosis that have potentially salvageable function are evolving. There are also data suggesting that certain high-risk populations with specific clinical manifestations may benefit from revascularization. Here, we provide an overview of the epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of ARVD based on consensus recommendations from a panel of physician experts who attended the recent KDIGO (Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes) Controversies Conference on central and peripheral arterial diseases in chronic kidney disease. Most focus is provided for contentious issues, and we also outline aspects of investigation and management of ARVD that require further research