bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Building Technology-Enabled Decision Support Applications
Authors: Shahbazian Elisa  , Pigeon Luc  , Kraft James  , Bossé Éloi
Published: February 2025

Development of advanced technology (e.g. High Level Information Fusion (HLIF), Data Mining, Artificial Intelligence (AI), human factors, etc.) enabled decision support for prediction and recognition of piracy activity is an extremely challenging problem. It requires the consideration of multiple interrelated factors and constraints for numerous aspects of the system, including legal, jurisdictional, information sharing and exchange, information availability and quality, user roles and hierarchy, application of hardware and software technologies, etc. which do not lend themselves to simple analyses. There are numerous stakeholders, and no one has either an understanding of or access to, the entire knowledge to be able to resolve any of these challenges by themselves. There are too many unknowns in a traditional top-down design methodology to be feasible to use. Because scenarios are task-based and descriptive, it was judged that the Scenario Based Design (SBD) approach needs to be explored for advanced technology-enabled systems, in which human is a part of the system. This chapter presents an initial discussion on how SBD methodology could be applied to incrementally develop advanced decision support capabilities for prediction and recognition of piracy activity in collaboration with the stakeholders.
EU-Russia Energy Diplomacy
Authors: Dimitrova Irena
Published: February 2025

This article focuses on the EU-Russia energy diplomacy after the disruption of gas supply in January 2009. Russia's policy is strategic, focused, and consistent. EU still does not have a common strategy on that issue. Even though there is a general consensus on the need for secure gas supply and some practical steps in that regard have been taken, European efforts are not yet consolidated. As a result, bilateral prevails over multilateral in EU-Russia energy relations and for the EU there is the growing challenge in becoming more dependent on Russian gas. The research identifies a number of security implications of the Russian pipeline diplomacy: the “divide and rule” policy towards European Union members and “near abroad” and its influence on the EU and NATO decisions, the Georgia crisis and the Ukraine case. In conclusion, this research argues that the EU needs to develop and implement a common energy policy in order to guarantee its future as a global actor. To achieve this, it is recommended that Brussels starts considering its energy relations with Russia as interdependent ones, taking into account Moscow's reliance from financial and infrastructural point of view.
Azerbaijan's National Approach to Energy Security
Authors: Alieva Leila
Published: February 2025

Complex regional geopolitics combined with the rich natural resources conditioned Azerbaijan's approach to energy security. Bordering three regional powers – Iran, Russia and Turkey- Azerbaijan managed to utilize its geographical position and abundant hydrocarbon resources to its own benefit by rising as a powerful actor in energy security both of the Caspian and Europe. Azerbaijan plays a strategic role in energy diversification of the EU as a producer state by conducting independent energy policy in the challenging security environment of the region. The country's national approach to the energy security can be understood in the context of state building objective and hierarchy of threats to national security. Unresolved Karabagh conflict, ambitious neighbors, undefined Caspian legal status, military asymmetry in the Caspian, have direct or indirect impact on energy security and puts a major burden on the state producer providing for the energy security. Consequently, although unlike oil diplomacy, the gas policy of Azerbaijani leadership is more commercialized, as some national security objectives have been achieved, Azerbaijan will continue to harmonize relations with the other states through balancing gas deals. The cautious approach to NATO in a difficult balancing act is most likely to be replaced by the speedier integration in Euro-Atlantic Council, as the rising tensions in the region and security deficit urge for consolidated and combined efforts to promote energy security. The inclusion in the energy security concept social and political impact of energy development in the country – producer wil help to reduce the ambivalence associated with the NATO role in energy security.
Russia – EU Upcoming Energy Projects. Sustainable Development Issues
Authors: Osheyko Sergey
Published: February 2025

This article describes the upcoming energy projects in the «Russia - EU» format: the gas pipeline «South stream», the Burgas-Alexandroupolis oil pipeline and the Belene Nuclear power station. After a quick overview of the projects short analysis of them in the cross-section of sustainable development and a number of proposals are given.
Third Energy Package in Wider Black Sea Area: A Panacea for Energy Security Problems?
Authors: Dąborowski Tomasz
Published: February 2025

European model of organization of gas and electricity sectors has started to be introduced in Wider Black Sea region. One of the countries which has committed to implement 3rd energy package is Moldova. Article presents its gas and electricity sectors and main challenges in the area of energy security. Additionally tries to foresee what will be the consequences of implementation third energy package by showing what will happen if package is: a) not implemented, b) partially implemented or c) implemented in most radical form.
Suicide Terrorism: The Special Case of the Suicide Bomber
Authors: Markovic Vesna
Published: February 2025

This paper gives a brief history of suicide bombings, from the first modern suicide bombing in Lebanon in 1981 through June 30, 2011. This includes over 3,000 suicide bombings successfully carried out in 42 countries worldwide. It also briefly covers group and individual motivations and a typology of suicide bombers. Finally, the changes in tactics and trends in suicide bombings will be covered.
The Threat of Bioterrorism: The Regional and Global Facets
Authors: Vaseashta Ashok
Published: February 2025

This article presents many facets of bioterrorism, in terms of challenges and policies, as well as the regional and global aspects of threats posed by various forms of bioterrorism, including synthetic genomics, dual-use technologies, and programmable functional biological materials. Policy recommendations to limit proliferation of biological agents are described. The pros and cons of programs such as international collegiate programs – iGEM, bio-brick, and other similar programs are discussed. Using advanced technological platforms, viz. nanotechnology, multiple sensors-networks, nanophotonics, biomimetics, advanced sciences convergence, and bioinformatics, effective countermeasures are reviewed for early detection and thwarting bioterrorism related threat vectors.
Privacy in Intelligent Environments: That obscure object of desire
Authors: Ampanavos Spyros  , Papoulias George
Published: February 2025

Intelligent Environments are tightly connected with the extended flow of information to and from their users. Their constant need for data together with the desired unobtrusive character put the issue of privacy in stake. As mapping public and private space in the way Nolli did in 1748 is not possible anymore, a contemporary cartography of privacy is sought. This leads to the awareness of a new state of privacy. Through the use of a case study we propose a model that aims to offer anonymity and control of information. Weaknesses do exist and we recognize that much has yet to be done, in both technical and legal aspects.
The Programmer and the Widow: Exploring the Effects of Total Immersion in Augmented Realities
Authors: Huang Yu  , Wu Hsuan-Yi
Published: February 2025

In this Science Fiction Prototype (SFP) we explore the world where augmented realities are realised through bionic lens. People live in the virtual and physical complex where total immersion brings possibilities beyond living and death. However the somewhat immortality of life does not create happiness but emotional tangle to real human beings, especially when it comes to the sense of ‘touch’. Besides from the effects, some business innovation is seen in the SFP. For example, the protagonist in this story plays an important role in the future as holographic projection programmer, which represents a new booming job in this futuristic world. They are given the power and skills to create fascinating scenarios and objects for demanders based on their requirements as if they are ‘the one’ to design and build the world.
The Maker Fables
Authors: Callaghan Vic
Published: February 2025

This Science Fiction Prototype explores the idea that the current interest in maker space activities could continue to grow to the point that it causes a sea change in the manufacturing industry as it shifts from centralised production in factories, to a distributed production in people's communities or homes. This move is a natural extension of a number of research trends, such as the increasing ability to personalise products and the popular trend of making or adapting things. We contextualise this within current concepts such as virtual appliances and buzz-boards and micro industries before presenting a series of vignettes that take a potpourri look at some related ideas. Finally, we conclude the article by reflecting where this technology could go in the future.
Intelligent House – Smart Living and Smart Workplace in Practical Approach
Authors: Cimler Richard  , Mls Karel
Published: February 2025

People are currently spending more and more time in their homes, where they will also accomplish a wider range of activities, including professional work. The border between home-work and professional work is getting more traversal as greater number of activities is being supported by different kinds of Ambient Intelligence. Smart technology has changed the ways people work at home, with more virtual workspaces and the potential for constant wireless connection to one's work. While the conceptual description of the complexity of managing both work and home activities can be reached relatively fast, any successful model of work-home integration needs research on the spatial aspects of workspaces in the Smart Homes – physical environments, design and effective use of physical components such as sensors, controllers, and smart devices is vital. In practical part of the paper, hardware and software design and implementation of the system with basic functions for intelligent house management is described. The system enables the future extensions of its functionality in accordance with possible user requirements.
Visual Multi-Agent Argumentation Solver
Authors: Lopes Nuno  , Santos Ricardo  , Merreiros Goreti
Published: February 2025

Argumentation has become a very important subject in computer science research. Its importance has been increased over the years in the topic of Multi-Agent Systems because it offers the tools to implement sophisticated systems that allow the interactions between intelligent agents. In this paper we propose a Multi-Agent system that will work in an intelligent environment, in which the agents have the capacity to argument with which other, with the goal to reach a group decision, using Dung's argumentation framework as a base.
Intelligent Outdoor Spaces
Authors: Mikulecky Peter
Published: February 2025

There are a number of recent wide area wireless sensor networks applications focused on environmental monitoring. However, there is just a few of them that aim to connect the data collecting and processing power with approaches and technologies of ambient intelligence. In our paper we intend to go further on with the ideas how ambient intelligence used in wide manner in connection with wireless sensor networks throughout the open natural environment could be beneficial not only for early warning in case of possible disasters, but also as a supporting tool for people located from various reasons in various outdoor areas. These can be hitchhikers, hikers on difficult mountains tracks, or even workers in an exacting outdoor workplace (i.e., coal mine). An idea of a large-scale ambient intelligence system based on a wide area wireless sensor network is presented, where the system could be able of monitoring the environment, evaluating the collected data and, if necessary, informing the workers in the environment about possible threats and possibly giving some hints for their rescue using their mobile devices. Such “intelligent outdoor spaces” could use already existing and matured technology of both wireless sensor networks and ambient intelligence with a clear benefit for people situated there.
Improving museum visitors' Quality of Experience through intelligent recommendations: A visiting style-based approach
Authors: Lykourentzou Ioanna  , Claude Xavier  , Naudet Yannick  , Tobias Eric  , Antoniou Angeliki  , Lepouras George  , Vasilakis Costas
Published: February 2025

This paper investigates the effect that smart routing and recommendations can have on improving the Quality of Experience of museum visitors. The novelty of our approach consists of taking into account not only user interests but also their visiting styles, as well as modeling the museum not as a sterile space but as a location where crowds meet and interact, impacting each visitor's Quality of Experience. The investigation is done by an empirical study on data gathered by a custom-made simulator tailored for the museum user routing problem. Results are promising and future potential and directions are discussed.
Spatial Aspects of Active Learning
Authors: Kay İpek  , Özkar Mine
Published: February 2025

This paper explores the relationship between the design of active learning places for children and intelligent environments. With focus on active learning in the digital age, it articulates various spatial relations in children's interactions with the environment. The exploration is through a proposed theoretical framework where space overarches digital tools and plays the key part in the shift to the intelligent environments of the learner-centered educational paradigm. Assuming that children generally build and share their knowledge through spatial experience, we group spatial definitions of active learning into five categories that are also schemas for physical experience. Spatial diagrams for each category are presented to guide the design bases of open-ended learning environments for children.
Towards a Component-based Design of Adaptive, Context-sensitive Services for Ubiquitous Systems
Authors: Ruiz-López Tomás  , Rodríguez-Domínguez Carlos  , Noguera Manuel  , Rodríguez María José  , Garrido José Luis
Published: February 2025

Service design in the scope of Ubiquitous and Ambient Intelligence Systems is a complex task given the characteristics and requirements that must be usually addressed, and consequently the number of design decisions that need to be made. Existing methodologies provide guidance to this process from a general-purpose point of view, lacking support for specific features of this paradigm. In this paper, a novel approach to design dynamic, runtime adaptive services based on context information, called SCUBI, is proposed. It consists of a metamodel and a method to design services in terms of components, addressing the special characteristics of Ubiquitous Computing. The proposal is illustrated and validated through a case study of the design of a positioning service.
Matter and Knowledge Among Digital Communities
Authors: Bacharidou Maroula  , Adamopoulos Georgios
Published: February 2025

At the threshold between the industrial and the digital crafting era, this paper discusses the notions that both today's designers and users are grappling with. Learning from pre-industrial design and crafting environments, considered as ‘intelligent’ due to their responsive results, mostly achieved using empirically-oriented methods, we envision the creation of a new environment, this time in the age of scientific, technological and computational applications. Based on interdisciplinary collaboration and global data collection and analysis regarding crafting materials and methods, this environment acts both as a design tool and a knowledge-propagation model among digital communities: simulating the complex behaviors and properties of matter through a user-friendly, real-time computer interface, this environment educates and assists users in the creation and manipulation of their personal-optimized to local conditions and needs-artifacts.
Designing Design Heuristics: The Creative Crowd
Authors: Turgeman Yaniv
Published: February 2025

In order to generate a contemporary problematization of issues of creativity and learning culture within electrate intelligent environments, this paper focuses on a recent project of the MIT Senseable City Lab, the “Makr Shakr.” In the first part of the paper [Part I: The Experiment of Makr Shakr; co-Creation and Consumption In Search of Social Design Intelligence], I analyze the ideas that brought the project of Makr Shakr into being, and describe the actual platform of social co-creation. I discuss the design and function of the project, which is based on a platform providing access to anyone who desires to create an alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink, and describe the experience of the emancipation of drinking-culture from the hands of its experts to the hands of its customers. In the second part of the paper [Part II: Creative Learning Via Social Imprimers; Minksy's Model of “Attachments-Goals” Learning Process,] I comment on how the project may serve toward the problematization of the construction of social platforms of co-creation and participatory design processes. I discuss the ideas emerging from the existence of the Makr Shakr project and expand to notions of creativity and culture, by focusing on the new positioning of the collective-amateur as expert, i.e. as the tool-holder and subject of creation, and on the formation of a new culture of “expanded base.” My question here is: What are the implications of a process in which everyone can contribute to the design and creation of a cultural product on the way we define the creative subject, as well as cultural value and significance. The salient idea in the paper is that in participatory environments of co-creation, the individual participates in processes of meaning-making through the construction of shared stories, and that this process provides the creative subject with social imprimers that help shape preferences and therefore gradually formulate the culture of the creative crowd.
Pedestrian navigation and shortest path: Preference versus distance
Authors: Armeni Iro  , Chorianopoulos Konstantinos
Published: February 2025

Contemporary digital maps provide an option for pedestrian navigation, but they do not account for subjective preferences in the calculation of the shortest path, which is usually provided in terms of absolute distance. For this purpose, we performed a controlled experiment with local pedestrians, who were asked to navigate from point A to point B in a fast manner. The pedestrians' routes were recorded by means of a GPS device and then plotted on a map for comparison with suggested itinerary from a digital map. We found that the preferred shortest path is significantly different to the suggested one. Notably, the preffered paths were slightly longer than the suggested, but there was no effect in the trip duration because there were fewer obstacles, such as cars. Since many pedestrians employ GPS enabled devices, the findings of this research inform the development of mobile applications and the design of new subjective map layers for city dwellers.
The Future of Local Memory Websites as Empowering Niches in Amsterdam
Authors: de Kreek Mike  , Oosterbroek Marijke
Published: February 2025

In this article, we explain how we envision the further interconnection of existing initiatives of online local memory collecting into a new social infrastructure, that is beneficial to the whole of Amsterdam. Three examples of local memory websites show how large districts in the East, South and West are represented thoroughly by local residents, in spite of differences in organizational characteristics. The concept of empowerment, as a multilevel construct, lends itself to frame these examples as important building blocks of socially sustainable districts and neighborhoods. Local knowledge, experiences and people become connected across Amsterdam when local memory websites become interconnected, by introducing city-wide compelling themes. Discussing this social infrastructure in relation to the concept of smart cities, leads us to a plea for more research focus on sociably smart cities.
From Spectator to User, From Viewer to (Act)or
Authors: Mitakou Eleni N.  , Fanou Paraskevi G.  , Zamani Efpraxia D.
Published: February 2025

Stephen Hawking, when introducing Krauss' ‘The Physics of Star Trek’, wrote that “[s]cience fiction (…) is not only good fun but it also serves a serious purpose, that of expanding the human imagination.” In this paper, following a retrospective juxtaposition of the two last centuries' filmic production, we show how imaginary worlds have become conventional and familiar, while viewers have transformed from mere spectators to users of intelligent technologies. We also exhibit how this led to the emergence of a new generation of users, that of intelligent users, who are now both transmitters and receivers of information, and who perceive urban reality very differently from previous generations.
Modeling context and fuzzy personas towards an intelligent Future Internet smart home paradigm
Authors: Mylonas Phivos  , Siolas Giorgos  , Caridakis George  , Kollias Stefanos  , Stafylopatis Andreas-Georgios
Published: February 2025

It is rather true that the advent and wide proliferation of ubiquitous computing in the recent years has promoted the concept of intelligent computational social interaction as an important influencing factor of the way end-users, organizations and devices interact with each other within the new digital era. Among fields influenced is that of “smart cities” or the so-called “cities of tomorrow”, where the increase and maintenance of citizens' active participation in the organization's knowledge management activities is pursued through the adoption of social computing approaches. Since cities are composed by people that inhabit them, their memories, stories, concerns and culture developing through their social interaction is of great research interest. In this paper we discuss our early efforts on designing, modeling and providing a prominent and applied knowledge modeling personalization approach, in order to achieve an ultimate goal, that of providing innovative personalized services to citizens and enhancing their everyday life within the above framework. Thus, herein we propose a novel representation way to exploit its knowledge generation and sharing capabilities in order to effectively capture and formalize corresponding knowledge information.
Spatiality of Athens' digital footprint: Limitations and opportunities for “intelligent” urban planning
Authors: Bala Iro  , Moschouti Eirini
Published: February 2025

The existence of a new digital layer added to urban reality is a common place for various approaches which discuss the evolution of the “digital city” concept, as well as the emersion of intelligent environments. Considering that every city embeds new technologies with a unique – either strictly constructed or even unplanned – manner, one could actually presume that the penetration of ICT reveals multileveled opportunities as well as limitations for urban planning in each case. Focusing on the city of Athens as a case study of an unplanned version of a digital city, we examine its spatiality through its digital footprint and discuss the potential of new planning practices driven by the availability of urban data.
Social sub-group identification using social graph and semantic analysis
Authors: Mathisen Bjørn Magnus  , Kofod-Petersen Anders  , Mcgovern John  , Vilarinho Thomas  , Farshchian Babak A.
Published: February 2025

Social networks proliferate daily life, many are part of big groups within social networks, many of these groups contain people unknown to you, but with whom you share interests. Some of these shared interest are based on context which has real-time properties (e.g. Who would like to go to a jazz concert during an AI conference). This paper presents a possible method for identifying such subgroups. We aim to do this by creating a social graph based on one or more “comparators”; Frequency (how often two members interact) and content (how often the two talk about the same thing). After the graph is created we apply standard graph segmentation (clique estimation) techniques to identify the subgroups. We propose a system which continuously polls social network for updates, to keep the social graph up-to-date and based on that suggest new subgroups. As a result the system will suggest new subgroups in a timely and near real-time manner. This paper will focus on the methods behind the creation of the weighted social graph and the subsequent pruning of the social graph.
Resonance Testing of in Situ Deep Mixed Soils
Authors: Guimond-Barrett Antoine  , Szymkiewicz Fabien  , Le Kouby Alain  , Pantet Anne  , Reiffsteck Philippe  , Mosser Jean-François
Published: February 2025

This paper focuses on the use of free-free resonance testing (FFR testing) applied to the characterization of stabilized silt and sand specimens treated in situ by deep soil mixing. The aim of FFR testing is to measure the natural frequencies of free vibration of the tested specimen. Compression and shear wave velocities, seismic moduli and Poisson's ratio can be determined from these frequencies. Block samples were taken from soil-cement columns installed at a test site near Paris, France. Specimens were cored from these blocks and submitted to FFR testing in the laboratory. It was found that both P-wave and S-wave velocities increase non linearly with unconfined compressive strength. A linear correlation between strength and dynamic stiffness was observed. Free-free resonance test results can be correlated with index parameters such as density and porosity and used for preliminary assessments of static stiffness as all these parameters varied linearly with measured wave velocities.
Ultrasonic Quality Control Method of Sealing Walls Made by Jet Grouting Technology
Authors: Malinin Dmitrii  , Malinin Aleksei
Published: February 2025

In the present article the authors suggest to use ultrasonic method for quality control of secant bored pile wall made by jet grouting technology. Sealing walls construction demands the running of the quality control. To provide this, the experience of quality control of concrete bored piles and secant bored pile wall was applied. For method mastering were held some tests, these tests show that the signal goes through the soil-concrete columns if there are no defects. Quality control was also held on job sites, the results reflect the matching between lab and field testing.
Numerical Study of the Dynamic Behavior of a Site Reinforced with Rigid Inclusions
Authors: Mánica Miguel
Published: February 2025

Using the finite difference code FLAC3D, a research was carried out to study the three-dimensional dynamic behavior of a site reinforced with rigid inclusions. Soil was modeled with a linear elastic constitutive model, but compatible strain parameters were obtained from a one dimensional wave propagation analysis. The seismic motion recorded at surface, was deconvoluted and applied to the finite difference model base as a shear stress history. Analysis results were compared with the free field response to quantify the effect of inclusions.
Actual Experience with the Geomassif in Complicated Soil Conditions
Authors: Tronda Tatiana
Published: February 2025

The optimum alternative for reinforcing soft water-saturated soils such as a geomassif is described. Series of experiments were carried out to check on availability of geomassif. Results of static probing and punching tests showed the considerable increase of the modulus of the base deformation and strength soil characteristics. According to comparative calculations the cost of geomassif can be 32–75% lower than the cost of conventional pile foundations.
Verification of Simplified Approach with Numerical Approach in Analysing Piled – Raft Foundations
Authors: Mahmoud Mohamed A. Baqi  , Elarabi Hussein
Published: February 2025

The goal of this paper is to highlight the difference between the simplified non-linear method which was proposed by Polous and Davis and the plate on piles and continuum method in analyzing piled raft foundations. For that, a hypothetical example is analyzed using the two aforementioned analysis techniques. The latter approach necessitates the use of the finite element method which herein involved using the PLAXIS 3D FOUNDATION. The first approach was used to estimate the load – settlement pattern for different piled raft configurations with variation in number of piles, piles length and piles diameter. It was noticed that the simplified method of (Polous and Davis) is suitable to predict the average settlement and the corresponding number of piles yet fall short to obtain any additional parameters. On the other hand, the (FEM) had the advantage to obtain the distributions of settlement and piles loads.
Back-Calculation of Measured Leg Penetrations of Tubular Legged Jack-Ups During Preloading
Authors: Raymackers Sylvie
Published: February 2025

For offshore wind applications, four-legged jack-ups with tubular legs are often operated without spudcans. In cohesive soils the leg penetrations during preloading can exceed 2.5 times the diameter of the pile. The behaviour is therefore typically that of a semi-deep foundation. Because industry standards were originally intended for truss leg jack-ups with spudcans, guidance is limited for the estimation of leg penetrations of tubular leg jack-ups without spudcans.
The Shard: Foundation Design and Construction
Authors: Smith S.
Published: February 2025

This paper details the design and construction methodologies implemented for the secant pile wall and plunge columns for the 310m tall skyscraper, known as The Shard, located on London Bridge Street, London, England.
Advanced Numerical Modelling of a Complex Deep Excavation Case History in Shanghai
Authors: Dong Yuepeng  , Burd Harvey  , Houlsby Guy  , Hou Yongmao
Published: February 2025

The construction of the North Square Shopping Center of the Shanghai South Railway Station is a large scale complex top-down deep excavation project. The excavation is adjacent to several current and newly planned Metro lines, and influenced by a neighboring Exchange Station excavation. The highly irregular geometry of this excavation greatly increases the complexity in 3D FEM modelling. The advanced numerical modelling described in this paper includes detailed structural and geotechnical behavior. Important features are considered in the analysis, e.g. i) the small-strain stiffness of the soil, ii) the construction joints in the diaphragm wall, iii) the shrinkage in the concrete floor slabs and beams, iv) the complex construction sequences, and v) the shape effect of the deep excavation. The numerical results agree well with the field data, and some valuable conclusions are generated.
Effects of Fines on Shear Behavior of Sand: A DEM Analysis
Authors: Luo X. D.  , Yang J.
Published: February 2025

When clean sand is mixed with some amount of fines, its shear behavior can be altered significantly. Current views on the effect of fines are very diverse: several experimental studies showed that the addition of fines can reduce the collapsibility of sand under undrained conditions, whereas several others obtained an opposite conclusion. The diverse or even contradictory views in the literature indicate that the influence of fines remains an area of great difficulty. In this paper, the shear behavior of sand with the addition of fines is studied by using the 3D discrete element method (DEM), with the aim to investigate the role of fines at the grain scale so as to develop a deeper understanding. Particular effort is made to examine the applicability of the equivalent inter-granular void ratio which has been increasingly used to describe the packing state in characterizing the shear behavior of silty sands.
The Behaviour of Modern Flexible Framed Structures Undergoing Differential Settlements
Authors: Smit Gerrit  , Clayton Christopher
Published: February 2025

Modern office buildings are often open plan buildings with a frame consisting of flat reinforced concrete (RC) slabs, RC columns and non-load bearing internal and external partitions and facades. These structures are more flexible than older conventional buildings with load bearing walls, and the use of conventional guidelines for differential settlement may therefore be over-conservative. Conventional guidelines focusing on 2D structures also lack provision for the 3D deformation of a structure. A numerical experiment was performed which consisted of the design of a 3D, 5-bay by 5-bay, six storey flat slab RC frame with pad foundations on clay. The behaviour of the designed structure undergoing differential settlement was predicted by means of linear-elastic finite element analysis. The results show it is possible to normalise the structural behaviour using a soil-structure stiffness ratio, and demonstrate the importance of 3D deformation, and of linear vs. non-linear soil modelling.
Dynamic Response of Multi-Layer Soil Under Harmonic Waves: Analytical and Numerical Solutions
Authors: Ulker M. B. Can
Published: February 2025

In this study, solutions to the dynamic response of multi-layer soil under progressive waves are presented. Analytical solutions for a soil layer developed by the author are extended to multi-layers considering all the inertial terms. Problem is also solved with finite elements and numerical results are verified with the analytical counterparts. Dynamic response is evaluated in terms of displacement, pore pressure and stress variations in the layers. The effect of surface layer and underlying granular layers on the response is presented for various non-dimensional parameters. Applicability of inertial terms in the equations is also determined. Parametric results indicate that thickness and permeability of the surface layer as well as the frequency of the wave significantly affect the response. It is determined that the need to include inertial terms in the equations is controlled by how the flow speed changes between the layers depending on relative ratios of respective physical parameters.
Simulation of Single Pile Loading Test in a Centrifuge to Predict Its Behavior in Real Case
Authors: Utepov Yelbek
Published: February 2025

This paper includes information about principles and methods of centrifuge modeling to analyze relevant geotechnical problems such as pile testing. Results of two loading tests of pile model in the centrifuge are presented in this paper. All the tests were carried out by using Columbia beam Centrifuge (New York, USA). Dry Nevada sand has been used to form a soil model. Aluminum pile model with cross section 1.25×1.25 cm and length of 29 cm has been used to simulate the behavior of concrete prototype pile with cross section 30×30 cm and length of 7 m. This was provided by 24g centrifuge spinning. The simulation of pile loading tests in the centrifuge showed similar behavior with the real pile loading tests. Also the pile loading tests were modeled by Finite Element Methods (FEM) using software “Plaxis 3D”. As a result, the main characteristics of the pile such as its bearing capacity obtained from centrifuge tests and FEM were compared with the results of manual calculations.
Optimization of Calculation of Roads, Mathematics Correlations Between Design Parameters
Authors: Gaye Abdou Xaadir  , Thiam Abdou Aziz  , Cisse Ibrahima Khalil  , Cisse Lamine
Published: February 2025

Californian Bearing ratio (CBR) remained the most used index for the choice of some building materials for roads construction as well. It is graphically calculated, with the results of tests carried after immersion of the compacted samples at different energies (10, 25, 55 blows), for four or more days. The aim of the present study is to reduce the time necessary to obtain this useful parameter; first of all, by a prediction through a simple mathematical correlation from identification properties of the building material, secondly, by a prediction of this parameter through only one compaction energy (25 blows). Some of these formulas are proposed for lateritic soils.
Structural Design of Pavements Under Static Loading
Authors: Kanerva Kyösti  , Korkiala-Tanttu Leena
Published: February 2025

In Finland, there are no official guidelines for the pavement design for static loading. This paper evaluates whether design loads, design criteria and materials of international design methods can be applied in Finland. Studied international design methods for static loading were British Interpave and Swedish CBI methods for concrete block pavements. Studied design loads, criteria and materials were applied to design a structure with an asphalt concrete pavement. The design was based on Interpave container loads and CBI reduced static stiffness moduli values for pavement and subgrade materials with the Swedish design criterion for vertical compressive deformation on top of the subgrade for single-loading. Interpave container loads with the design principle based on single-loading and the reduced static stiffness moduli values can be considered applicable for the design of pavements under static loading. Further research is required to determine reasonable static moduli values especially for bitumen bound materials.
Measuring Density and Undrained Shear Strength of Reservoir Sediment Using ND-CPT
Authors: Jia Rui  , Hino Takenori  , Hamada Takaharu
Published: February 2025

The nuclear density cone penetration test (ND-CPT) was used to simultaneously measure the density and undrained shear strength (su) of reservoir sediment inside the Isahaya Bay dike in the Ariake Sea, Japan. The ND-CPT equipment was set on a boat, and a total of 24 ND-CPTs were conducted. Furthermore, 10 undisturbed samples were obtained for laboratory density measurements to evaluate the ND-CPT measurements. The values of density based on ND-CPT measurements were compared with those from the laboratory tests on undisturbed samples, and the comparisons show that 95% of the ND-CPT measurements lie within ±10% of the laboratory measurements. The relations between density and suof reservoir sediment inside the Isahaya Bay dike show that suobviously increases with an increase of the density, and the values of log (su) show a linearly increasing trend with the density.
Temperature Effects on the Penetration Probes
Authors: Yoon Hyung-Koo  , Lee Jong-Sub  , Park Chung-Hwa
Published: February 2025

The penetration probe has been widely used for obtaining reliable data. This paper suggests the temperature-compensated methods when using the penetration probe for increasing the reliability. The penetration probe includes small diameter cone penetrometer in this paper. The load cell of small cone is extended behind the connection part for configuring the full-bridge circuit within the probe. This method is verified through observation of output value with penetration test in saturated soil. The measured values show that the full-bridge circuit produces more reasonable and reliable results. This paper demonstrates that the temperature effects should be considered for obtaining the higher reliable values.
Total Stress Rapid Drawdown Analysis of the Pilarcitos Dam Failure Using Finite Elements
Authors: Vandenberge Daniel R.
Published: February 2025

Rapid drawdown is a critical design condition for the upstream or riverside slope of earth dams and levees. A new total stress rapid drawdown method based on finite element analysis is used to analyze the rapid drawdown failure that occurred at Pilarcitos Dam in 1969. Effective consolidation stresses in the slope prior to drawdown are determined using linear elastic finite element analysis. Undrained strengths from isotropically consolidated undrained (ICU) triaxial compression tests are related directly to the calculated consolidation stresses and assigned to the elements in the model by interpolation. Strength reduction finite element analyses are used to evaluate stability of the dam. Back analysis suggests that undrained strengths from ICU tests must be reduced by 30% for use with this rapid drawdown method.
Some Considerations About Geotechnical Characterization on Soils with Oversize
Authors: Dorador Leonardo  , Besio Gaspar
Published: February 2025

In determined civil and mining projects there are no chances to conduct a geotechnical characterization on soils with oversize based on in situ and laboratory testing. In these cases it is required to use charts and correlations to predicting some important geotechnical parameters of these soils. Based on this, this article is focused in three topics. The first topic is the chart to estimate the minimum and maximum void index in granular materials. Some previous charts are shown and a new chart and data is included. The second topic discussed is an influence of the D50in the maximum void index. Laboratory testing results shows that larger D50decrease the maximum void index independently of the uniformity coefficient CU. The last topic discussed is the peak friction angle based on the Leps' Chart. In this work, new large triaxial data is included into this chart and some recommendations to use it appropriately are proposed.
Physical Modelling of Tube Sampling Disturbance in Clays
Authors: Hover Eyre  , Ni Qing  , Guymer Ian
Published: February 2025

A physical model was developed to investigate the effects of tube sampling. Amorphous silica and an oil blend of matching refractive index were mixed to form an artificial transparent soil with the properties of a soft clay. A thick and a thin walled glass sampler were driven into the soil, and movements within the soil body were recorded using digital photography. Using PIV (Particle Image Velocimetry), an image recognition technique capable of tracking minute movements, the images were analysed, and the centreline strain path (CSP) of the sample during tube penetration was calculated. When compared to the results from existing analytical models some degree of correlation was observed, with strains produced by the thick walled tube far exceeding those produced by the thin walled tube. It was also shown that tube sampling creates an extensive strain inside the sample which remains after sampling, and that sampling disturbance varies with depth.
Determination of Shear Strength of MSW. Field Tests vs. Laboratory Tests
Authors: Lapeña Pablo
Published: February 2025

The shear strength of the wastes determines the inclination to be given to the landfill slopes, which in turn governs the landfill capacity. The measurement of these properties is not an easy task. Different approaches are possible. Conventional geotechnical laboratory tests face both the lack of representativeness of the samples, and the environmental difficulties associated with testing them in laboratories placed in general use buildings. Due to these limitations, the number of published results is relatively short. The use of in situ tests has become an attractive alternative, because it eliminates the above two problems. However, the interpretation of these tests is based on the experience with conventional geotechnical materials, but MSW have a different behavior, with a seemingly unlimited strain, and no definite failure in most cases. Some of these cases have been published, and even some compilations are available.
Correlation Between Barton's Q and Bieniawski's RMR – A Relook into Goel's N and RCR with Propose Addition
Authors: Lim Shiyi
Published: February 2025

Goel et al. (1995, 1996) proposed a correlations between the two most commonly used rock mass classification system, the rock mass rating RMR of Bieniawski and the rock mass quality Q of Barton et al. The new approach removed certain parameters in Q and RMR and the reduced values are known as N and RCR respectively. The proposed N and RCR were correlated using the proposed equation and the removed parameters were then added back into N or RCR to give the correlated Q or RMR value. This paper looks into the possibility of unifying the two most commonly used rock mass classification by including the stress reduction factor of Q, as a new parameter of RMR, the proposed addition based on the proposed equation
Using RQD to Estimate the In-Situ Permeability of Discontinuous Sedimentary Rock
Authors: Qureshi Mohsin Usman  , Al-Mawali Khalid  , Khan Kamran Muzaffar
Published: February 2025

In-situ permeability of rock mass is governed by its discontinuities and is important to investigate it by a widely accepted parameter, “rock quality designation (RQD)”. In this regard, site investigations conducted during construction of hydraulic structures in the complex lithological units of Oman were reviewed with aim to summarize the data obtained by drilling of boreholes with recovered cores (RQD) and Lugeon's tests (in-situ permeability) in discontinuous sedimentary rocks. The plot of RQD and apparent in-situ permeability suggested a consistent relationship, with respect to the each lithological unit and extent of investigation as well. The developed relationship is recommended for the onsite determination of apparent in-situ permeability Kaof discontinuous sedimentary rocks by recovering the RQD values only. However, the RQD being less than the threshold value of 25% necessitates a detailed investigation to elucidate the in-situ permeability.
Soil-Structure Interaction Modelling in Performance-Based Seismic Jetty Design
Authors: Besseling Floris
Published: February 2025

The importance of performance based design approaches and soil structure interaction in seismic design of structures are internationally recognized. Soil-structure interaction is a key factor that has to be considered in design, particularly for retaining structures and structures with deep foundations, such as jetties. However, seismic design standards hardly provide any straight forward tools for engineers to account for soil-structure interaction in design. This study therefore was initiated, aiming at the development of a efficient performance-based design approach that can be applied by engineers. Currently available design methods are investigated and the performance of simple and more advanced methods are assessed by means of a comparative study. Based on a case study a promising and efficient decoupled approach is proposed in which dynamic analysis of site and structure are decoupled. With this approach one is able to efficiently assess the structure dynamic response, even for more complex structure geometries.
Geotechnical Assessment and Design of a Cantilevered Retaining Wall in a Sensitive Volcanic Soil
Authors: Holland Andrew
Published: February 2025

This paper discusses geotechnical aspects of the design and construction of a large bored pile cantilever retaining wall in Hamilton, New Zealand. Intrusive geotechnical investigations at the site identified sensitive weathered volcanic soils at founding level and raised concerns of strain-softening in the soil during earthquake shaking. The strain softening was considered likely to lead to unacceptable deformation of the wall and damage to surrounding properties. As well as traditional techniques, the investigation included cyclic triaxial testing and seismic dilatometer testing (sDMT) of the sensitive soils. Information from other sites in similar materials was gathered and used in the assessment. Of possible solutions, deep soil/cement-grout mixing of material in the passive zone of the retaining wall was assessed to be the most appropriate solution to limit softening and deformation. Observations from construction are made, and challenges faced due to the ground conditions are discussed.