Search Results (800)

In the context of the growing promotion of sustainable urban mobility policies, traffic calming is one of the main actions adopted by local, regional, and national administrations to support the liveability and vitality of residential and commercial areas through improvements in non-motorists’ safety, mobility, and comfort. Traffic calming is achieved through the implementation of several actions and physical features such as speed bumps. These elements are generally accompanied by surface drainage elements (grated inlets) located upstream. The presence of speed bumps modifies the hydraulic performance of the inlets. This work aimed to evaluate, by experimental tests, the effects produced by the presence of two different speed bumps on two grated inlets commonly used in Barcelona. The results indicate that the hydraulic efficiency of grated inlets located upstream of speed bumps increases with respect to conventional situations (without speed bumps). These increments are relevant (up to 60%) for flat areas and streets with longitudinal slopes of up to 4–6%, but can be neglected for steep roads (more than 6%). The increase in grate inlet hydraulic performance means modifications in terms of inlet spacing, with significant economic savings for local administrations in charge of the design, implementation, and maintenance of surface drainage systems. Full article

As the environmental regulations of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) become more stringent, the accurate prediction of ship propulsion performance has become essential. Under ballast conditions where the draft is shallow, the propeller approaches the free surface, causing complex phenomena such as ventilation and surface piercing, which reduce propulsion efficiency. The conventional virtual disk (VD) method cannot adequately capture these free-surface effects, leading to deviations from model propeller results. To resolve this, a correction formula that accounts for the advance ratio (J) and submergence ratio (h/D) has been proposed in previous studies. In this study, the correction formula was simplified and implemented in a CFD environment using a field function, enabling dynamic adjustment of body force based on time-varying submergence depth. A comparative analysis was conducted between the conventional VD, modified VD, and model propeller using POW and self-propulsion simulations for an MR tanker and SP598M propeller. The improved method was validated in calm and regular wave conditions. The results showed that the modified VD method closely matched the performance trends of the model propeller, especially in free surface-interference conditions (e.g., h/D < 0.5). Furthermore, additional validations in wave-induced self-propulsion confirmed that the modified VD method accurately reproduced the reductions in wake fraction and thrust deduction coefficient, unlike the overestimations observed with the conventional VD. These results demonstrate that the modified VD method can reliably predict propulsion performance under real sea states and serve as a practical tool in the early design stage. Full article

One of the sometimes-neglected fields is the landscape design of hospital premises. This study focuses on the perception and preferences of responders regarding hospital site design. The objective was to determine if people are aware of the benefits of restorative contact with nature and if there were preferences for any specific landscape type. The online questionnaire with color figures was distributed using emails and social media from 4th May to 2nd August 2024. Some 110 respondents returned the questionnaire. Most of the respondents were women under 25. Most respondents declared that the surroundings of the healthcare building influence the health and well-being of patients (96%) and health personnel (86%). The results confirmed the awareness of the importance of contact with nature (89%). Moreover, this study demonstrated a preference for calm garden compositions, stimulating physical and mental recovery with trees, flowers, and water features, as well as stabilized paths and sheltered sitting places. The results confirm previous studies and demonstrate the importance of landscape architecture design of hospital premises for the well-being of patients. The findings may influence urban landscape planning and the design of hospital sites. Full article

Several experimental and numerical studies have been conducted on the towing behavior of floating offshore wind turbines (FOWTs); however, these studies mainly focus on tension-leg platform (TLP) and semi-submersible designs with cylindrical features. The University of Maine’s VolturnUS+ concept is a cruciform-shaped barge-type FOWT with distinctive hydrodynamic properties that have not been characterized in previous research. This study presents basin-scale experiments that characterize the hydrodynamic drag properties of the VolturnUS+ platform, as well as observing the motion behavior of the platform and added resistance during towing in calm water and waves. The towing experiments are conducted in two towing configurations, with differing platform orientations and towline designs. The basin experiments are supplemented with a numerical study using computational fluid dynamic (CFD) simulations to explore flow-induced motion (FIM) on the platform during towing. In both the experiments and the CFD simulations, it was determined that the towing configuration significantly impacted the drag and motion characteristics of the platform, with the cruciform shape producing FIM phenomena. Observations from the towing tests confirmed the feasibility of towing the VolturnUS+ platform in the two orientations. The results and observations developed from the experimental and numerical towing studies will be used to inform numerical models for planning towing operations, as well as develop informed recommendations for towing similar cruciform-shaped structures in the future. Full article

Continuous technological, ecological, and digital transformations reshape urban mobility systems. While sustainable mobility has become a dominant keyword, there are many different approaches and policies to help achieve lasting and properly functioning change. This study applies a comprehensive qualitative policy analysis to influential and leading sustainable mobility approaches (i.a. Mobility Justice, Avoid–Shift–Improve, spatial models like the 15-Minute City and Superblocks, governance frameworks such as SUMPs, and tools ranging from economic incentives to service architectures like MaaS and others). Each was assessed across structural barriers, psychological resistance, governance constraints, and affective dimensions. The results show that, although these approaches provide clear normative direction, measurable impacts, and scalable applicability, their implementation is often undermined by fragmentation, Policy Layering, limited intermodality, weak Future-Readiness, and insufficient participatory engagement. Particularly, the lack of sequencing and pacing mechanisms leads to policy silos and societal resistance. The analysis highlights that the main challenge is not the absence of solutions but the absence of a unifying paradigm. To address this gap, the paper introduces CalmMobility, a conceptual framework that integrates existing strengths while emphasizing comprehensiveness, pacing–sequencing–inclusion, and Future-Readiness. CalmMobility offers adaptive and co-created pathways for mobility transitions, grounded in education, open innovation, and a calm, deliberate approach. Rather than being driven by hasty or disruptive change, it seeks to align technological and spatial innovations with societal expectations, building trust, legitimacy, and long-term resilience of sustainable mobility. Full article

The hydrodynamic response of closed and semi-closed (open-bottom) rigid cylindrical aquaculture platforms was examined through combined model tests and numerical simulations. Free decay tests in calm water quantified natural periods and damping ratios for heave and pitch motions. Subsequent regular wave testing characterized response amplitude operators (RAOs) and wave elevations at interior and exterior wave gauges. Finally, the motion and wave elevation characteristics of the two types of aquaculture platforms under irregular waves were analyzed under extreme sea conditions. Results demonstrated that bottom openings significantly altered hydrodynamic responses of aquaculture platforms, with a 59% enhancement in heave damping ratio and a 47% reduction in heave natural period. Semi-closed cages exhibited asymmetric internal sloshing profiles along the mid-transverse axis, with lateral sloshing amplitudes increasing by 200–300% at lateral wave gauges. Under irregular wave conditions, compared to closed aquaculture platform, semi-closed aquaculture platform increased the heave, pitch motion, and internal sloshing response but reduced run-up on the outer wave-facing side. Full article

Cold-air pooling (CAP) and frost risk represent significant climate-related hazards in karstic and agricultural environments, where local topography and surface cover strongly modulate microclimatic conditions. This study focuses on the Mohos sinkhole, Hungary’s cold pole, situated on the Bükk Plateau, to investigate the formation, structure, and persistence of CAPs in a Central European karst depression. High-resolution terrain-based modeling was conducted using UAV-derived digital surface models combined with multiple GIS tools (Sky-View Factor, Wind Exposition Index, Cold Air Flow, and Diurnal Anisotropic Heat). These models were validated and enriched by multi-level temperature measurements and thermal imaging under various synoptic conditions. Results reveal that temperature inversions frequently form during clear, calm nights, leading to extreme near-surface cold accumulation within the sinkhole. Inversions may persist into the day due to topographic shading and density stratification. Vegetation and basin geometry influence radiative and turbulent fluxes, shaping the spatial extent and intensity of cold-air layers. The CAP is interpreted as part of a broader interconnected multi-sinkhole system. This integrated approach offers a transferable, cost-effective framework for terrain-driven frost hazard assessment, with direct relevance to precision agriculture, mesoscale model refinement, and site-specific climate adaptation in mountainous or frost-sensitive regions. Full article

This study researches the effects of a biofeedback-based Dynamic Difficulty Adjustment (DDA) system on player stress management in a survival-horror video game. For this purpose, a game titled Code: Terror was developed, in which players’ psychophysiological data—such as heart rate, stress level, and voice level—were collected in real time through a smartwatch. Based on these data, game parameters were dynamically adjusted. The adaptation process was guided by the “Relax-to-win” model, which aims to make the game easier as players remain calm, using their level of relaxation as a baseline. A total of 40 participants were recruited and divided into two reciprocal groups: one group experienced the game solely with the DDA system activated, while the other played first with the DDA system disabled and then with it enabled. Player experience was evaluated using the Intrinsic Motivation Inventory (IMI) and the Challenge Originating from Recent Gameplay Interaction Scale (CORGIS). Results showed that the dynamic biofeedback system significantly enhanced intrinsic motivation and perceived challenge, while also reducing physiological arousal, indicating its effectiveness in promoting emotional regulation—the inclusion of both gameplay conditions for participants allowed for the collection of more consistent and meaningful data. The results suggest that biofeedback-driven DDA systems have the potential to enrich player experience both emotionally and motivationally. Furthermore, the findings highlight the potential of such adaptive biofeedback mechanisms to serve as intelligent medical decision support tools for stress management, mental health monitoring, and personalized intervention strategies. Full article

The pathophysiology of hemorrhoids remains elusive; however, recent research has increasingly focused on the role of genetic and epigenetic mechanisms in this condition, offering prospects for targeted treatments. We conducted a review using PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar, supplemented by citation searching, to summarize the current knowledge of the involvement of genetic and epigenetic mechanisms in hemorrhoids. Our review of 250 papers suggests that several genes, including FOXC2, NOX, NOS, and CALM3, may be responsible for the predisposing changes leading to the development of hemorrhoids. These genes have been associated with varicose veins, inflammation, and connective tissue alterations. Additionally, epigenetic mechanisms, particularly those mediated by miRNA, have been implicated in the clinical symptoms of hemorrhoids. While epigenetic regulation may influence inflammation, dilated vessels, and connective tissue degeneration, the exact mechanisms involved in these processes remain unclear. Furthermore, certain predisposing factors for hemorrhoids appear to involve both genetic and epigenetic mechanisms. This knowledge contributes to a better understanding of hemorrhoids and holds promise for developing novel therapeutic approaches. Full article

In the study of person-environment interaction, a well-established research field provided evidence on the power of natural environments and natural built spaces to improve human well-being. However, urban life or certain health conditions may make access to natural environments more difficult. This begs the question: is it possible to replicate the positive effects of green environments in interior spaces? To answer the question, here we manipulated the acoustic and visual features of five rooms to have nature-inspired indoor environments and urban-like indoor environments. To test the effect of these environmental features on people’s well-being two measures were taken into account: participants’ emotional state and participants’ physiological states (i.e., electrodermal activity levels). The results showed that nature-inspired rooms evoked more positive emotional states and led to decreased levels of electrodermal activity (i.e., relaxation) in participants. The findings align with so-called biophilia interior design, a practical perspective focused on the importance of bringing nature (e.g., colours and materiality) into built environments for optimising people’s health and well-being. Full article

In free-running ship simulations, PID control gains for rudder and propeller revolution are often selected based on empirical experience without a standardized procedure, leading to inconsistent results under varying operational conditions. This study examined PID control gains by implementing a simulation framework using STAR-CCM+. The Ziegler–Nichols tuning method was applied to derive control gains, and their behavior was analyzed across different wave conditions (calm, short, medium, and long waves), PID period condition, ship speeds (low and design speeds), and scale ratios. The simulations showed that the PID gains derived under moderate wave conditions provided stable and reliable control performance across various sea states. Furthermore, the influence of scale ratio changes on the control performance was evaluated, and a non-dimensional scaling formula for PID coefficients was proposed to enhance applicability across different model sizes. Validation against experimental data confirmed the reliability of the simulation setup. These findings offer a systematic guideline for selecting the PID control gains for free-running simulations, promoting improved accuracy and stability under diverse environmental and operational conditions. This research contributes to developing standardized practices for maneuvering performance evaluations in realistic maritime environments. Full article

This study investigates the nonlinear and regime-dependent relationship between climate policy uncertainty (CPU) and sovereign credit default swap (CDS) spreads across a panel of developed and emerging economies from February 2010 to March 2025. Utilizing the Quantile-on-Quantile Regression (QQR) and Multivariate QQR (MQQR) frameworks, we capture the heterogeneous effects of CPU under varying market states and assess the marginal role of global risk factors, including geopolitical risk (GPR), economic policy uncertainty (EPU), and market volatility (VIX). The findings indicate that in developed markets, CPU exerts a nonlinear impact that intensifies during periods of heightened sovereign risk, while in low-risk regimes, its effect is often muted or reversed. In contrast, emerging economies exhibit more volatile and state-contingent responses, with CPU exerting stronger effects in calm conditions but diminishing in explanatory power once global risks are taken into account. These dynamics highlight the importance of institutional credibility and financial integration in moderating CPU-driven credit risk. Full article

This study investigates the genetic background of pediatric-onset cardiac channelopathies, a rare group of genetic disorders causing arrhythmias and sometimes sudden death, whose genetic background remains partially unknown. The research analyzed 59 pediatric patients (<18 years of age) diagnosed with different channelopathies (LQTS, BrS, CPVT, SQTS, and conduction disorders), along with 40 of their family members, using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) after genetic counseling. A causative genetic variant was found in 47% of cases, mainly in the KCNQ1 (42%), RYR2 (16%), CACNA1C (10%), and SCN5A (10%) genes. Notably, a de novo large deletion in KCNH2 was detected in an LQTS patient, and a pathogenic CALM1 variant was identified in a child. A compound heterozygous KCNQ1 was consistent with Jervell and Lange-Nielsen syndrome. In light of these data, genetic testing is crucial for diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment planning; cascade screening allowed early risk identification and preventive interventions for family members. Expanding NGS technologies and research on new candidate genes may enhance personalized therapies in the future. Full article

As the peak of Solar Cycle 25 approaches, space weather events such as Equatorial Plasma Bubble (EPBs) and geomagnetic storms are expected to become more frequent. While EPBs are a primary source of scintillation, geomagnetic storms can either enhance or suppress this activity depending on storm timing, intensity, and induced electric field effects, thereby causing significant ionospheric disturbances that degrade Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signal reception performance. This study presents a novel, systematic evaluation of GPS + Galileo Precise Point Positioning (PPP) performance under intense ionospheric scintillation during the rising phase of Solar Cycle 25 using datasets from globally distributed stations. More than twenty months of data have been systematically analysed, with a focus on stations located in equatorial regions, which are the most affected by strong scintillation. PPP processing was performed using final products from the European Space Agency (ESA) with Multi-GNSS Experiment (MGEX) products employed as backups when ESA data were unavailable. It is shown that under severe scintillation the accuracy of the final PPP solution is severely reduced, with errors more than doubled with respect to calm days. In this respect, frequent cycle slips and anomalies in the input observations are detected. A comparative analysis of GPS-only and GPS + Galileo PPP solutions confirms that integrating Galileo not only mitigates the impact of scintillation but also improves the reliability and accuracy of positioning in challenging space weather conditions. Full article

The study investigates the disconnect between formal urban planning standards and experiential walkability outcomes in Viranşehir, a planned neighborhood in Mersin, Türkiye. Although the area complies with national regulations on the provision of public services, it exhibits systemic limitations, including car-oriented street layouts, fragmented pedestrian networks, and underutilized public spaces. Employing a mixed-methods case study, the research integrates archival sources (aerial imagery, zoning plans, satellite data) with field observations to assess pedestrian environments. A light coding of sidewalk continuity, crossings, and edge conditions indicates that many streets are bounded by extensive inactive walls, protected crossings are absent along critical routes such as the school–park axis, and sidewalks are frequently narrow, obstructed, or discontinuous. These built-form features undermine safety, comfort, and social interaction despite formal regulatory compliance. The findings demonstrate how grid-pattern street systems prioritize vehicular mobility, while gated developments restrict permeability and diminish everyday encounters. In response, the study proposes a hierarchy of interventions: immediate measures such as school streets, protected crossings, and traffic calming, followed by medium- to long-term strategies including shaded seating, sidewalk widening, and participatory design guidelines. By linking statutory standards with lived experience, the paper conceptualizes walkability not only as a technical planning requirement but also as a socio-cultural right, offering transferable insights for the creation of more inclusive urban environments. Full article