Mechanical behavior of buildings subjected to impulsive motions

This article analyses the response of steel-moment resisting frames subjected to near-field ground motions. In near-field areas high damage and a relevant number of collapsed steel buildings arose even when both design and detailing had been performed in perfect accordance with the code provisions. These circumstances are related to the characteristics of the motion that in such areas shows large-amplitude pulses along the fault-normal component. The response of two steel moment resisting frames characterized by different stiffness levels and subjected to seven different accelerograms recorded in stations located in near-field areas is discussed in the following. The frames have been also analyzed by modelling the real behavior of semi-rigid joints between beams and columns and taking into account the presence of passive dampers (shear link devices). The nonlinear dynamic analysis has been performed with the aim of acquiring a quantitative knowledge on the effects of near-field ground motions on frame buildings and on their damage

Sustainability practices at private universities: a state-of-the-art assessment

Private universities also play a key role in the sustainability debate. But despite their importance, there a shortage of research on how sustainability is being implemented at private universities. Based on the need to address this gap, this paper investigates the nature and diversity of sustainability-based practices undertaken at private universities. It outlines the ways private universities see and perceive sustainability, and examines by means of a survey involving 10 universities from across all geographical regions which educate over 150.000 students, how these universities incorporate sustainability-related practices, as part of their operations. The results suggest that, unlike their public counterparts, about half of the respondents stated that they do not have projects undertaken to promote sustainability in local communities or in their respective regions. Also, some private universities perceive themselves as leaders in sustainability in higher education, while some are still developing a more robust sustainability profile. The conclusions of the paper are that the special features related to sustainable development teaching and research at private universities need to be better identified, in order to involve them more on sustainability efforts. Also, whereas many of them are highly engaged on improving energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote sustainable water usage and promote sustainable landscaping, there is a need for them to also engage in other areas. Finally, private universities should engage on further efforts to increase their sustainability activities, which are beneficial to them in financial terms, as well as in respect of their image and their operations