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Effects of structural irregularities on the seismic response of a steel structure
No full textSteel structures are commonly used for buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure, due to their high strength-to-weight ratio and versatility. However, the dynamic response of steel structures can be affected by irregularities such as variation in mass, elevation, stiffness, and plan geometry. Therefore, analysis of structural irregularities is important and allows the structural designer to maximize the efficiency of structures in resisting seismic and other dynamic actions. This paper presents a review of the existing methods of analysis of the effects of structural irregularities on the dynamic response of low to medium-high-rise steel buildings. Methods that are used with Eurocode 8 (BS EN 1998:2004) design procedure are discussed. Also, reviewed are the provisions of Eurocode 8, regarding structural irregularity in design, including discussion of the effects of irregularity in mass, elevation, stiffness, and plan. To quantify and compare the effects of different irregularities, SCIA finite element program is used to analyze dynamic response of hypothetical structures with and without irregularities. The computed results of salient deformations and stresses in the structures are compared and discussed, including reference to other researchers’ findings. Finally, the implications of various structural irregularities on analysis and design of steel structures are also discussed. The novelty of this research is that it analyses the dynamic response of a predefined structural model, for four types of structural irregularity simultaneously, based on the same control parameters and computational method. Also, even though the use of a building may change at some time, current literature on seismic vulnerability does not adequately address the impact of unexpected changes in mass distribution, but this research does. The findings may help engineers in optimizing design of irregular structures to enhance seismic performance, mitigate risks of seismic damage and promote consistency in design and construction of earthquake resistant structures
The benefits of an autism peer network in higher education
No full textPrevious studies have shown that support for autistic university students is not always consistent, accessible, or adaptable to individual needs. Therefore, providing personalised social support is essential for both academic success and wellbeing. The aim of this study was to assess, for the first time, the perceived value and potential benefits of an autism peer network (APN) in a higher education setting using a participatory approach. Eight autistic students were interviewed about their experience of higher education and involvement with the APN. These semi-structured interviews included questions related to evaluating the peer network, exploring personal comfort and social communication, and understanding the impact of the APN. Data were analysed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis. The first theme was ‘Sense of community’ with three subthemes namely sense of belonging, sense of identification and sense of validation. The second theme was ‘Safe space’ which included subthemes of a social space, physical space, and virtual space. To conclude, creating an autism peer network can provide multiple benefits ranging from social inclusion (developing friendships, reducing loneliness) to inclusive education and ultimately supports autistic students in higher education
Green triiron tetraoxide@Algae (Fe₃O₄@Algae) nanoparticles for highly efficient removal of lead (Pb²⁺), cadmium (Cd²⁺), and aluminum (Al³⁺) from contaminated water : an isothermal, kinetic, and thermodynamic study
No full textTrunk health condition inspection using integrated 3D photogrammetry and holographic radar tomography
Get PDFConstruction of flower-like MnO₂ decorated by SrCuFe₂O₄ as a magnetic nanocomposite for the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue under visible light
No full textzk-DASTARK : a quantum-resistant, data authentication and zero-knowledge proof scheme for protecting data feed to smart contracts
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A decentralized, community-led library for diasporic communities : the case of the Hong Kong BookShare in the UK
No full textSince 2021, the arrival of hundreds of thousands of Hongkongers in the UK under the British National (Overseas) Visa Scheme has created a significant demand for Traditional Chinese books and reading materials. Conventional community libraries have struggled to meet these diasporic information needs, largely due to geographic dispersion. This article examines the Hong Kong Books Borrowing and Sharing Centre (HK BookShare), a decentralized, community-led library system operating on sharing economy principles. By January 2025, the platform had amassed over 1600 titles, serving users across 86 cities and towns. Drawing on interviews with the founder and users, digital walkthroughs, and descriptive statistics, this study explores how digital technologies and HK BookShare’s operational model address diasporic information needs while challenging traditional library frameworks. The findings highlight HK BookShare’s effectiveness in providing broad access, user-friendly services, and a diverse collection but also reveal key challenges related to volunteerism, social trust, and algorithmic design. This article argues that physical libraries and sharing economy models can be mutually reinforcing, rather than opposing, in meeting the diverse information needs of new immigrants. By contributing to the discourse on migrant information needs, community-managed libraries, and digital platforms, this study offers both academic insight and practical implications for future initiatives