Resilient Connections Research Articles

The Global Gateway Forum: Change through connection and resilience

Collaboration is key to discovery and change. The first Global Gateway Forum enabled connections to be made between different stakeholders. It took place in October 2023 in Brussels, welcoming government representatives from more than 20 countries, financial institutions and business and civil society representatives. Attendees gathered to discuss global investment needs, consider solutions and forge new partnerships. At the Forum investments were committed and new partnerships were announced. Global Gateway is Europe’s international investment programme, which seeks to strengthen connections in links in digital, energy and transport sectors and enhance health, education and research systems across the world. It is at the foundation of the Forum, which provides the setting to showcase progress in the Global Gateway strategy. As Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, stated in her State of the Union address in September 2021, the Global Gateway strategy is ‘a template for how Europe can build more resilient connections with the world’. The aim of the strategy is to secure €300 billion in investments by 2027 to support sustainable projects to push towards global resilience and equity. von der Leyen mentioned key advancements in 90 projects launched in 2023 spanning different sectors. At the Forum, impactful discussions were sparked between leaders about key challenges facing diverse sectors, including green energy, critical raw materials, transport corridors and education. The theme of the Forum was ‘Stronger together through Sustainable Investment’.

Seismic behavior of resilient concrete column-base connection with SMA bolts and RSPs

This paper presented a novel resilient concrete column-base connection with shaped memory alloy (SMA) bolts and rectangular slotted plates (RSPs) to achieve the demountable and recoverable capabilities in precast concrete columns. Quasi-static tests were conducted on one monolithic and three resilient concrete connections to investigate the effects of RSP number and yield strength on seismic behavior. Results showed that the resilient connection with both flange and web RSPs had superior lateral capacity, ultimate drift ratio, and energy dissipation compared to the monolithic connection. The resilient connection also exhibited minimal concrete damage and smaller residual deformation. However, low-yield-strength flange RSPs significantly reduced lateral capacity, initial stiffness, and energy dissipation, which should be considered in engineering design. Additionally, adjustment coefficients for rocking interface rotations were determined from digital image correlation (DIC) data using a fitting method. A formula was proposed to predict the flexural capacity of resilient specimens, assuming a plane section in the compression zone. The predictions closely matched the test data, with differences within 10 %, demonstrating the formula's effectiveness. The length, diameter, and material yield strength of the anti-shear steel bar (ASB) had a significant impact on the shear capacity of the interface.

Exploring the application of a Bayesian framework in transfer path analysis

Transfer path analysis (TPA) is a methodology widely used in transmission identification of vibration and noise. Among the TPA families, the two prevailing approaches are classical TPA with the matrix inversion method and operational transfer path analysis (OTPA). Both methods rely on measurements within costly and complicated overdetermined systems. These experiment-based methods are also limited by sufficient space for the sensor mounting, which can result in difficulty when analyzing the transfer path in small objects. In this paper, we use an experimental setup that mimics an engine mounted on a suspension with resilient connections. The severity of errors stemming from the application of underdetermined measurement systems is assessed, alongside an exploration of how the Bayesian framework can be integrated into the analysis to mitigate errors and enhance the performance of TPA.

Shaping the general resilience of green infrastructure through integrating structures, functions, and connections

Global climate change has necessitated the implementation of green infrastructure that is resilient in a manner of sustainable development. The current understanding of green infrastructure resilience is hindered by the divergence of generic properties and performance in adapting to uncertain disturbances. This study develops an operational methodology that integrates structural and functional properties of green infrastructure, and their connections to shape the general resilience. A further empirical study is conducted in the context of Shenzhen City, where the effectiveness of resilient connections is correlated with the distribution of waterlogging. We demonstrate that green infrastructure present different levels of resilience in terms of its structural composition and functional performance. The Shenzhen city shows a high capacity to maintain soil retention stability, but a feeble capacity regarding water yield and gross primary productivity. The resilient connections of green infrastructure are highly centralized, with a few pivotal nodes performing a high degree of connectivity. It shows that a total of 52.2% of resilient lines are identified as belonging to the fourth level but linking the majority of the nodes. Enhancing the general resilience of green infrastructure could facilitate its adaptation to specific disturbances such as waterlogging. When correlated the resilient connections of green infrastructure with the distribution of waterlogging, a distance of 1.6 km from the waterlogging points is significantly identified where the residuals of the entropy index display the lowest variance. As the distance increases, the composite entropy index initially decreases and then increases. We suggest that the alignment of generic properties and specified performance of green infrastructure is essential in the pursuit of sustainable development.

From Janissaries to Leaders: The Continuing History of the Kuloghlis in Libya

This article delves into the intricate presence of a unique Turkish descendant group, known as the Kuloghlis, within the Maghreb region, with a particular focus on Libya, shedding light on their profound historical significance to the Ottoman State and their enduring influence in the region’s socio-political landscape. Originating from Turkish Janissaries who established matrimonial ties with indigenous women, the Kuloghlis played a pivotal role in facilitating Ottoman dominion over the Maghreb from the 16th century onwards. Despite their gradual decline in significance following Sultan Abdulhamit II’s era, they maintained a resilient connection with Türkiye and experienced a resurgence in prominence following Libya’s independence. Despite a lack of comprehensive literature on this group, this article underscores their lasting importance, emphasising their continued sway in Libyan politics, transcending various governmental regimes. Employing document analysis and literature scanning as qualitative research methods, the article illuminates the Kuloghlis’ integral role in Ottoman history while highlighting their ongoing relevance in post-independence Libya, where many influential political figures trace their lineage back to this distinctive group.

IRS-aided NOMA-based communication architecture for 6G wireless networks: An enhanced error-control and reliable data transmission

Intelligent reflecting surface (IRS) is a key technology for sixth-generation (6G) wireless communication to obtain high energy and spectral efficiency with a minimum cost. On the other hand, non orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) enhances the spectrum efficiency of the network. The combining schemes are implemented to obtain error-free data at the receiver. This paper proposes an IRS-aided NOMA-based packet combining (PC) and aggressive packet combining (APC) schemes-assisted communication architecture to enhance service quality and achieve sustainable and resilient connectivity among users for 6G wireless networks. In this paper, the mathematical model has been derived for the instantaneous achievable data rate, bit error rate, outage probability, and packet correction capability. The derived analytical expressions are validated through detailed Monte Carlo simulations. The obtained results show that the proposed schemes outperform the conventional NOMA with PC and NOMA with APC schemes and facilitate enhanced error control and reliable data transmission capabilities. Moreover, the proposed schemes have been compared with the IRS-aided orthogonal multiple access (OMA) schemes, where IRS-aided OMA schemes are considered benchmarks of the proposed schemes. It is presented that the proposed schemes are superior to the conventional OMA with PC and APC schemes and IRS-aided OMA with PC and APC schemes.

A first characterization of the microbiota-resilience link in swine

BackgroundThe gut microbiome plays a crucial role in understanding complex biological mechanisms, including host resilience to stressors. Investigating the microbiota-resilience link in animals and plants holds relevance in addressing challenges like adaptation of agricultural species to a warming environment. This study aims to characterize the microbiota-resilience connection in swine. As resilience is not directly observable, we estimated it using four distinct indicators based on daily feed consumption variability, assuming animals with greater intake variation may face challenges in maintaining stable physiological status. These indicators were analyzed both as linear and categorical variables. In our first set of analyses, we explored the microbiota-resilience link using PERMANOVA, α-diversity analysis, and discriminant analysis. Additionally, we quantified the ratio of estimated microbiota variance to total phenotypic variance (microbiability). Finally, we conducted a Partial Least Squares-Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA) to assess the classification performance of the microbiota with indicators expressed in classes.ResultsThis study offers four key insights. Firstly, among all indicators, two effectively captured resilience. Secondly, our analyses revealed robust relationship between microbial composition and resilience in terms of both composition and richness. We found decreased α-diversity in less-resilient animals, while specific amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) and KEGG pathways associated with inflammatory responses were negatively linked to resilience. Thirdly, considering resilience indicators in classes, we observed significant differences in microbial composition primarily in animals with lower resilience. Lastly, our study indicates that gut microbial composition can serve as a reliable biomarker for distinguishing individuals with lower resilience.ConclusionOur comprehensive analyses have highlighted the host-microbiota and resilience connection, contributing valuable insights to the existing scientific knowledge. The practical implications of PLS-DA and microbiability results are noteworthy. PLS-DA suggests that host-microbiota interactions could be utilized as biomarkers for monitoring resilience. Furthermore, the microbiability findings show that leveraging host-microbiota insights may improve the identification of resilient animals, supporting their adaptive capacity in response to changing environmental conditions. These practical implications offer promising avenues for enhancing animal well-being and adaptation strategies in the context of environmental challenges faced by livestock populations.7uyXcYriZkKxPgmfB9NKtxVideo

Seismic resilient steel moment connections with top shear tabs and bottom replaceable metallic fuse: Analytical and experimental study

A new seismic resilient steel moment connection with top shear tabs and bottom replaceable metallic fuse is proposed. The shear tabs are realized by a combination of shear angles, with or without shear plates or splice plates, while a buckling-restrained plate (BRP) is employed as the fuse. Both the shear tabs and BRP are placed at a splice location which represents the beam inflection point under gravity load. Analytical models were developed to determine the stiffness, strength, and deformation of the proposed connection, as well as a trilinear moment-rotation relationship at the spliced section. In this way, a coordinated seismic design procedure to achieve structural serviceability and resilience in steel moment frames with the proposed connection was derived based on the equal-stiffness and zero-moment strategies. Cyclic loading tests of full-scale beam-to-column subassemblies equipped with the proposed connection were conducted. Three resilient connections with different shear tabs (bolted/welded shear angles above/below the beam top flanges) were examined and compared with a conventional fully welded connection. The test results validated the concept and confirmed success of the analytical and design methods to ensure sufficient lateral stiffness and concentrate plastic damage into the BRP. Moreover, the resilient connections with bolted or welded shear angles above the beam top flanges exhibited about 11–18% higher moment resistance at 4% drift and 20% more energy dissipation, and thus are recommended over that with welded shear angles beneath the beam top flanges.

Experimental and machine learning study on a novel high-performance hybrid steel-grout connector for cross-laminated timber panels under pre-yield cyclic loads

This work presents the results from quasi-static cyclic tests on a novel hybrid steel-grout connector for cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels. These test series are part of an experimental, analytical, and numerical research program to develop reliable and resilient connections for hybrid CLT mass timber structural assemblies. Each designated connector arrangement’s cyclic loading step path has been anchored to the yield point; this latter was obtained as the average of the seven replicates of monotonic tests. From the cyclic test results, mechanical characteristics, namely, the secant stiffness and the residual slip, have been evaluated and discussed. Furthermore, machine learning (ML) models based on deep neural networks have been developed to predict the mechanical characteristics of connectors in the function of the mechanical and geometrical properties of each material used. The developed ML models proved to be able to predict the connector’s stiffness and residual slip and were used to infer the effects of experimental variables on these performance parameters. It was shown that the steel rod and grout diameters are the most influencing parameters regarding the secant stiffness of connectors. As for the residual slip, it was found that the grout diameter and the steel rod strength class are the most influencing parameters. Furthermore, it was observed that a grout-to-rod diameter ratio of about 3.6 enables maximization of the secant stiffness while minimizing the residual slip. Lastly, polynomial equations were developed and found to be able to predict the secant stiffness and residual slip of connectors with a coefficient of determination of 0.99 and 0.98, respectively.

Fortifying Connected Vehicles Based Cybersecurity Measures for Secure Over-the-Air Software Updates

The emergence of connected vehicles has transformed the automotive sector by enhancing the vehicle’s functionality, efficiency, and safety. The performance and security of these vehicles significantly rely on the deployment of the over-the-air software update. However, the execution of OTA comes with many challenges, especially with regard to security vulnerabilities and risks. The current paper delves into the complexities of the secure OTA software update for connected vehicles addressing the most critical issues; authentication; encryption and integrity verification, and risk management. Through advanced cryptographic methodologies, stringent authentication processes, and secure communication channels, automotive manufacturers and other service providers can guarantee the integrity and confidentiality of the updates, and consumers’ data from malicious attack. Moreover, the paper explores the regulatory and other standards-related matters that control the use of OTA in the automotive sector. An understanding of the secure OTA update mechanisms aids the stakeholders in establishing a resilient connection in connected vehicles boosting consumer trust and the future of the automobiles industry.

Review of experimental investigations on seismic performance of precast segmental bridge columns in seismic regions

Due to the fast construction and low interference, precast segmental bridge columns have gained increasing attention for use in non-seismic regions. However, their applications in seismic areas remain scarce due to their ambiguous dynamic performance. To estimate the seismic performance of PSBCs, existing quasi-static cyclic tests and shaking table tests are gathered and reviewed in this study. According to the structural details and material property at the joints, the PSBCs are categorized as 11 types based on the connection type, namely grouted splice sleeve couplers (GSSCs), grouted corrugated duct connections (GCDCs), wet joint connections (WJCs), mechanical bar splice connections, socket connections (SCs), unbonded post-tensioned tendon connections (UPTCs), partial precast columns (PPCs), hybrid connections (HCs), high-strength steel bars (HSBs), high-performance concrete (HPC), and external dissipators (EXDs). Based on the experimental results, the failure reason of each connection types are discussed and the effective structural details are suggested. And also, the PSBCs are divided into those with ductile and resilient connections according to the damage levels, residual drift ratios, displacement ductility coefficients, equivalent viscous damping ratios and effective stiffness parameters. With the achievements in this research, the application of PSBCs is expected to be promoted in medium-to-high seismic regions.

Functionally Gradient Concrete // Resource- and emission-reduced concrete building construction system for NZ - The development of a seismically resistant joint for a functionally graded concrete wall-to-floor connection

Concrete is known to have a large carbon footprint; however, its versatility and durability are unparalleled. These qualities pertain to the usefulness of concrete in an ever-increasing population, and therefore demand our attention. By optimizing and improving the performance of concrete through innovative technologies, such as functionally graded concrete, the carbon footprint can be reduced. In construction, the weight of a conventional concrete structure accounts for approximately 70 % of a building’s total mass. In comparison, functionally graded concrete (FGC) is 50-60 % lighter, accounts for reduced emissions (45-60 %), and has improved insulative properties. These factors are achieved by its increased porosity and efficiency of material. Additionally, in comparison to a conventional concrete system, less raw material would be needed to achieve the same structural requirements and therefore less resources would be required. By varying its density, FGC creates a purely mineral, multifunctional, mono-material element that is fully recyclable. Investigations into implementing FGC as a building component in seismic areas have not yet been carried out. The development of a seismically resistant joint for a FGC wall-to-floor connection is necessary due to seismic requirements present around the world. The project presents a review of existing seismic resilient connection technologies, their classification to small scale and largescale building typologies, and the development of concepts for FGC seismically resilient wall-to-floor connections.

Evaluation and Influencing Factors of Network Resilience in Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area: A Structural Perspective

Currently, urban crises are spreading, even tending to be magnified along the urban networks. Improving urban network resilience can effectively reduce the loss and cope with sudden disasters. Based on the dimensions of regional resilience and the framework of urban network, a new evaluation system of network resilience, including economic, social, and engineering networks, was established to assess the network resilience of the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) from a structural perspective. We analyzed the spatial characteristics and influencing factors of network resilience using social network analysis and quadratic assignment procedure. The results were as follows: (1) regional difference was biggest in GBA’s economic network strength while smallest in its transportation network strength, and the east bank of the Pearl River represented an extremely resilient connection axis; (2) the structures of network resilience and its subsystems were heterogeneous, and the connection paths of network resilience were more heterogeneous and diversified than those of the subsystems; (3) network resilience presented an obvious core–edge structure, and the spatial correlation and spillover effect between blocks were substantial; and (4) geographical proximity, as well as differences in economic development, urban agglomeration, and market development, had a significant impact on network resilience. This study provides a more systematic approach to evaluate the regional network resilience, and the results provide references for the construction of bay areas in developing countries.

Smart Attacks Learning Machine Advisor System for Protecting Smart Cities from Smart Threats

The extensive use of Internet of Things (IoT) technology has recently enabled the development of smart cities. Smart cities operate in real-time to improve metropolitan areas’ comfort and efficiency. Sensors in these IoT devices are immediately linked to enormous servers, creating smart city traffic flow. This flow is rapidly increasing and is creating new cybersecurity concerns. Malicious attackers increasingly target essential infrastructure such as electricity transmission and other vital infrastructures. Software-Defined Networking (SDN) is a resilient connectivity technology utilized to address security concerns more efficiently. The controller, which oversees the flows of each appropriate forwarding unit in the SDN architecture, is the most critical component. The controller’s flow statistics are thought to provide relevant information for building an Intrusion Detection System (IDS). As a result, we propose a five-level classification approach based on SDN’s flow statistics to develop a Smart Attacks Learning Machine Advisor (SALMA) system for detecting intrusions and for protecting smart cities from smart threats. We use the Extreme Learning Machine (ELM) technique at all levels. The proposed system was implemented on the NSL-KDD and KDDCUP99 benchmark datasets, and achieved 95% and 99.2%, respectively. As a result, our approach provides an effective method for detecting intrusions in SDNs.

The emoji current mood and experience scale: the development and initial validation of an ultra-brief, literacy independent measure of psychological health

Background There is increasing interest in measuring wellbeing and mental health in a range of settings and services outside conventional mental health care settings. However, ensuring that measurement does not intrude on the primary service activity whilst promoting inclusion through minimizing literacy demands, requires ultra-brief and easy to use tools. Aims To develop and test a brief emoji-based tool to assess mental health, wellbeing, resilience and community connection. Method In study 1, 672 adults completed an online questionnaire study comprising a new emoji measure and established questionnaires assessing mental health, resilience, community connection and wellbeing. In study 2, 415 participants completed a paper-and-pencil version of the emoji measure, mental health and community connection, with 212 individuals providing data at a second time point. Results Multidimensional scaling revealed a meaningful structure to the emoji measure with validity demonstrated through relationships to existing scales. Stability over time and sensitivity to change were also demonstrated. Conclusions The emoji-based measure presented here provides an ultra-brief measure of mood and current experience, with minimal literacy demands on participants. Further research is now needed to test the properties and utility of the scale with other participant groups.

Behavioral and mental health problems in adolescents with ADHD: Exploring the role of family resilience

BackgroundFamily resilience and its role in behavioral and mental health problems has not been well documented among U.S. adolescents, especially those with ADHD. MethodsUsing data from the 2016 and 2017 National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH), we examined associations between family resilience connection index (FRCI) and conduct problems, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse in adolescents with ADHD aged 11–17 (n=4,169). Data were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression and chi-square tests. ResultsAdolescents with ADHD who had a lower FRCI score were more likely to have conduct problems (OR:1.64, CI:1.13–2.38) and depression (OR: 3.08, CI: 2.12–4.49). There were small differences between adjusted and unadjusted odds after controlling for adverse childhood experience and other covariates. LimitationWe could not assert prediction or causation, only associations among variables, due to the cross-sectional design of the 2016–2017 NSCH; however, a major advantage of the NSCH is that it includes a nationally representative sample of children and allows inferences to be made for understanding of the adolescents with ADHD in the U.S. ConclusionFindings suggest that family resilience may serve as a protective factor that leads to decreasing conduct problems, despite experiencing adversity in childhood. Targeting family resilience, in terms of teaching families ways to cope with adversities such as: a child's diagnosis of ADHD; behavioral problems, and/or other adverse experiences in children's environments, has great potential to reduce adolescents’ conduct and mental health problems.

Resilient connections

The paper presents Axis Strutture, patented by the authors, awarded with V:alere funds (VAnvitelli pER la ricErca 2020) for the establishment of an innovative start-up, now academic spin-off. It is based on the assemble of iron and wood with 'pins' (in Latin 'axis') threaded to ensure an economic profit in line with the Sustainable Development Goals, reviewing ancient technologies in the light of advanced research. The focus is on the structural connections of a construction system that clamps the steel frame elements with the wooden infill, allowing to assemble modular, prefabricated and flexible components customized on the design phase’s request. It provides effective emergency shelters assembled or dismantled as quickly as tents but more stable, healthier and comfortable. With a single star key, the steel uprights can be attested with wooden and similar tampons avoiding nails and screws which allows the total reuse of the components. The patented connections implement a new construction method promoting the self-construction of garden houses, leisure environments, bungalows, garages and quality housing modules, since they are resilient, resistant and with a controllable impact on the environment. The case study provides an opportunity to verify actions aimed at the implementation of Design for Adaptability strategies promoting virtuous life cycles that involves the entire community in sustainable models from an economic, environmental and social point of view.

Resilient connection for accelerated bridge constructions

Resilience in bridges is of paramount importance as bridges are important transport assets that maintain mobility after disasters. The most common cause of extreme stress development on structures and especially bridges is dynamic loads due to floods, earthquakes, strong winds, truck and ship collisions. In the international literature, there an ongoing research in support of adaptable and low-damage bridge connections for bridges and structures exposed to dynamic loads. This paper focuses on the design and assessment of a novel connection based on extensive numerical modelling of a 3D Finite Element (FE) model of the connections developed in Abaqus. The connection, which is essentially a resilient hinge, connects the foundation with the bridge pier and the latter with the deck, which are the positions where typically RC hinges are formed during extreme dynamic loads, e.g. earthquakes. A similar connection was designed before, however, this paper offers a design methodology and advances the connection by providing improvements to its mechanical characteristics, i.e. the geometry, resolving issues with regard to stress concentration by improving the contact surface geometry, the consideration of the friction and the optimization of its components. The paper concludes with a discussion on the connection constructability, therefore enabling further applications of the proposed design. The results also demonstrate that even though the rebars of the hinge undergo excessive elongation, the connection maintains a significant bending moment capacity, therefore not hindering the integrity of the bridge. Moreover, it is observed that the compressive zone of the hinge remains intact, thanks to the high strength of the steel, therefore no shortening of the RC column is expected.

The Deinstitutionalization of Persons with Psychosocial Disabilities from the Perspective of Ecological Systems Theory

The deinstitutionalization of social care in Lithuania started in 2012 after the adoption of the strategic guidelines by the Ministry of Social Security and Labour. The goal of this reform was to improve the care conditions and introduce new community-based services for persons with disabilities. Almost ten years of the reform resulted in only five percent of persons with disabilities who moved to community settings, mainly group-living homes. The slow-motion of the reform, as well as the tensions in the communities, suggests the need for a thorough analysis of the process of deinstitutionalization and its improvement.
 Bronfenbrenner’s ecological theory is applied as a conceptual and methodological tool for understanding the roles of deinstitutionalization agents at different levels, including the Ministry of Social Security and Labour, municipalities, non-governmental organizations, social care institutions, and local communities. All of these agents are involved and diversely interact among themselves during the transformation process of the social care system. The ecological theory provides the necessary integrated approach to the analysis of the process of deinstitutionalization of the social care system at the micro-, meso-, exo-, and macro levels.
 Deinstitutionalization and the trajectories of its participants reveal resilient connections with different fields of the ecological system and show that different system components not only represent different systems but become microsystems themselves that affect all elements in the ecological system.
 The complexity of environmental systems constitutes the basis of ecological systems theory. It serves as a lens to guide the analysis of the transformation of a particular person’s life in the context of deinstitutionalization. Herewith, it is an appropriate tool for understanding the impact of deinstitutionalization on specific local communities.

Structural Racism: The Rules and Relations of Inequity.

Why do racial inequalities endure despite numerous attempts to expand civil rights in certain sectors? A major reason for this endurance is due to lack of attention to structural racism. Although structural and institutional racism are often conflated, they are not the same. Herein, we provide an analogy of a "bucky ball" (Buckminsterfullerene) to distinguish the two concepts. Structural racism is a system of interconnected institutions that operates with a set of racialized rules that maintain White supremacy. These connections and rules allow racism to reinvent itself into new forms and persist, despite civil rights interventions directed at specific institutions. To illustrate these ideas, we provide examples from the fields of environmental justice, criminal justice, and medicine. Racial inequities in power and health will persist until we redirect our gaze away from specific institutions (and specific individuals), and instead focus on the resilient connections among institutions and their racialized rules.