Search Results (6,014)

Photocatalytic redox processes significantly contribute to shaping Earth’s surface environment. Semiconductor minerals exhibiting favorable photocatalytic properties are ubiquitous on rock and soil surfaces. However, the sunlight-responsive characteristics and functions of TiO₂, an excellent photocatalytic material, within natural systems remain incompletely understood, largely due to its wide bandgap limiting solar radiation absorption. This study analyzed surface coating samples, determining their elemental composition, distribution, and mineralogy. The analysis revealed enrichment of anatase TiO₂ and β-carotene. Informed by these observations, laboratory simulations were designed to investigate the synergistic effect of β-carotene on the sunlight-responsive behavior of anatase. Results demonstrate that β-carotene-sensitized anatase exhibited a 64.4% to 66.1% increase in photocurrent compared to pure anatase. β-carotene sensitization significantly enhanced anatase’s electrochemical activity, promoting rapid electron transfer. Furthermore, it improved interfacial properties and acted as a photosensitizer, boosting photo-response characteristics. The sensitized anatase displayed a distinct absorption peak within the 425–550 nm range, with visible light absorption increasing by approximately 17.75%. This study elucidates the synergistic mechanism enhancing the sunlight response between anatase and β-carotene in natural systems and its broader environmental implications, providing new insights for research on photocatalytic redox processes within Earth’s critical zone. Full article

There has been growing interest in constructing mid- and high-rise wooden buildings in recent years. To ensure the feasibility of these structures, it is necessary to provide evidence that their long-term reliability can be guaranteed. While long-term testing is typically necessary, a continuous monitoring system for the moisture content of wood materials used in buildings has been proposed as an alternative. The proposed method measures the change in the local moisture content using the equilibrium moisture content calculated from the temperature and humidity measured using temperature and humidity sensors. The study used Japanese cypress specimens with dimensions of 50 mm, 75 mm, and 100 mm cubes and Douglas fir specimens of 50 mm cubes. The moisture content was measured under various external environments. Results showed that this system effectively captured changes in local moisture content, reflecting fluctuations in temperature and humidity in a controlled thermo-hygrostat over a three-day moisture absorption environment (20 °C, 95% humidity). Additionally, it was observed that higher moisture content levels yielded correspondingly higher local moisture content measurements compared to those obtained using the oven-drying method. Full article

Nutrition plays a fundamental role in promoting health and preventing chronic diseases, with bioactive food components offering a therapeutic potential in biomedical applications. Among these, edible oils are recognised for their functional properties, which contribute to disease prevention and metabolic regulation. The proposed study aims to evaluate the quality of four bioactive oils (olive oil, sunflower oil, tomato seed oil, and pumpkin seed oil) by analysing their thermal behaviour through infrared (IR) imaging. The study designed a customised electronic system to acquire thermographic signals under controlled temperature and humidity conditions. The acquisition system was used to extract thermal data. Analysis of the acquired thermal signals revealed characteristic heat absorption profiles used to infer differences in oil properties related to stability and degradation potential. A hybrid deep learning model that integrates Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) with Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) units was used to classify and differentiate the oils based on stability, thermal reactivity, and potential health benefits. A signal analysis showed that the AI-based method improves both the accuracy (achieving an F1-score of 93.66%) and the repeatability of quality assessments, providing a non-invasive and intelligent framework for the validation and traceability of nutritional compounds. Full article

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have gained significant attention due to their widespread distribution in the environment and potential adverse health effects. While ingestion, especially through contaminated drinking water, is considered the primary route of human exposure, recent research suggests that other pathways, such as inhalation and dermal absorption, also play a significant role. This review provides a concise overview of the toxicological impacts of both legacy and emerging PFASs, such as GenX and perfluorobutane sulfonic acid (PFBS), with a particular focus on their effects on the liver, kidneys, and immune and nervous systems, based on findings from recent in vivo, in vitro, and epidemiological studies. Despite the transition to PFAS alternatives, much of the existing toxicity data focus on a few legacy compounds, such as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), which have been linked to adverse immune outcomes, particularly in children. However, evidence for carcinogenic risk remains limited to populations with extremely high exposure levels, and data on neurodevelopmental effects remain underexplored. While epidemiological and experimental animal studies supported these findings, significant knowledge gaps persist, especially regarding emerging PFASs. Therefore, this review examines the visceral, neural, and immunotoxicity data for emerging PFASs and mixtures from recent studies. Given the known risks from well-studied PFASs, a precautionary principle should be adopted to mitigate human health risks posed by this large and diverse group of chemicals. Full article

This study aims to analyze the bending behavior of polylactic acid (PLA) structures made by fusion deposition modeling (FDM) technology. The investigation analyzed chiral structures such as lozenge and clepsydra, as well as geometries with wavy patterns such as roller and Es, in addition to a honeycomb structure. All geometries have a relative density of 50%. After being subjected to three-point bending tests, the capacity to spring back with respect to the bending angle and the shape recovery of the structures were measured. The roller and lozenge structures demonstrated the best performance, with shape recovery assessed through three consecutive hot water immersion cycles. The lozenge structure exhibits 25% higher energy absorption than the roller, but the latter ensures better replicability and shape stability. Additionally, the roller absorbs 15% less energy than the lozenge, which experiences a 27% decrease in absorption between the first and second cycle. This work provides new insights into the bending-based energy absorption and recovery behavior of PLA metamaterials, relevant for applications in adaptive and energy-dissipating systems. Full article

To investigate the influence of different water quality conditions on the underwater transmission performance of laser communication signals, this paper systematically analyzes the absorption and scattering characteristics of the underwater laser communication channel, and constructs a transmission model of laser propagation in water, so as to explore the transmission influence mechanism under typical water quality environments. On this basis, a system of in situ measurements for underwater laser channel attenuation is designed and constructed, and several sets of experiments are carried out to verify the rationality and applicability of the model. The collected experimental data are denoised by the fusion of wavelet analysis and adaptive Kalman filtering (DWT-AKF in short) algorithm, and compared with the data measured by an underwater hyperspectral Absorption Coefficient Spectrophotometer (ACS in short), which shows that the channel attenuation coefficients of the model inversion and the measured values are in high agreement. The research results provide a reliable theoretical basis and experimental support for the performance optimization and engineering design of the underwater laser communication system. Full article

This study aims to characterize short-wave infrared (SWIR) reflectance spectra at cranial (at the scalp overlying the frontal cortex and the temporal bone window) and extracranial (biceps and triceps) sites in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and age-/sex-matched controls. We sought to identify the diagnostic accuracy of wavelength-specific patterns in distinguishing MS from normal controls and spectral markers associated with disability (e.g., Expanded Disability Status Scale scores). To achieve these objectives, we employed a multi-site SWIR spectroscopy acquisition protocol that included measurements from traditional cranial locations as well as extracranial reference sites. Advanced spectral analysis techniques, including wavelength-dependent absorption modeling and machine learning-based classification, were applied to differentiate MS-related hemodynamic changes from normal physiological variability. Classification models achieved perfect performance (accuracy = 1.00), and cortical site regression models showed strong predictive power (EDSS: R²_CV = 0.980; FSS: R²_CV = 0.939). Variable Importance in Projection (VIP) analysis highlighted key wavelengths as potential spectral biomarkers. This approach allowed us to explore novel biomarkers of neural and systemic impairment in MS, paving the way for potential clinical applications of SWIR spectroscopy in disease monitoring and management. In conclusion, spectral analysis revealed distinct wavelength-specific patterns collected from cranial and extracranial sites reflecting biochemical and structural differences between patients with MS and normal subjects. These differences are driven by underlying physiological changes, including myelin integrity, neuronal density, oxidative stress, and water content fluctuations in the brain or muscles. This study shows that portable spectral devices may contribute to bedside individuation and monitoring of neural diseases, offering a cost-effective alternative to repeated imaging. Full article

Petrochemical complexes are spatially expansive and host diverse emission sources, making accurate monitoring of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) challenging using conventional two-dimensional methods. This study introduces Mobile-extraction Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (Me-DOAS), a real-time, three-dimensional remote sensing technique for assessing benzene emissions in the Ulsan petrochemical complex, South Korea. A vehicle-mounted Me-DOAS system conducted monthly measurements throughout 2024, capturing data during four daily intervals to evaluate diurnal variation. Routes included perimeter loops and grid-based transects within core industrial zones. The highest benzene concentrations were observed in February (mean: 64.28 ± 194.69 µg/m³; geometric mean: 5.13 µg/m³), with exceedances of the national annual standard (5 µg/m³) in several months. Notably, nighttime and early morning sessions showed elevated levels, suggesting contributions from nocturnal operations and meteorological conditions such as atmospheric inversion. A total of 179 exceedances (≥30 µg/m³) were identified, predominantly in zones with benzene-handling activities. Correlation analysis revealed a significant relationship between high concentrations and specific emission sources. These results demonstrate the utility of Me-DOAS in capturing spatiotemporal emission dynamics and support its application in exposure risk assessment and industrial emission control. The findings provide a robust framework for targeted management strategies and call for integration with source apportionment and dispersion modeling tools. Full article

To reduce the carbon footprint of the concrete industry and promote a circular economy, this study explores the reuse of waste materials such as glass powder (GP) and nitrile rubber (NR) fibres in concrete. However, the inclusion of these waste materials results in lower compressive strength compared to conventional concrete, limiting their application to non-structural elements. To overcome this limitation, this study adopts the concept of confined concrete by developing concrete-filled steel tube (CFST) stub columns. In total, twelve concrete mix variations were developed, with and without steel tube confinement. GP was utilised at replacement levels of 10–30% by weight of cement, while NR fibres were introduced at 0.5% and 1% by volume of concrete. The findings demonstrate that the incorporation of GP and NR fibres leads to a reduction in compressive strength, with a compounded effect observed when both materials are combined. Steel confinement within CFST columns effectively mitigated the strength reductions, restoring up to 17% of the lost capacity and significantly improving ductility and energy absorption capacity. All CFST columns exhibited consistent local outward buckling failure mode, irrespective of the concrete mix variations. A comparison with predictions from existing design codes and empirical models revealed discrepancies, underscoring the need for refined design approaches for CFST columns incorporating sustainable concrete infill. This study contributes valuable insights into the development of eco-friendly, high-performance structural systems, highlighting the potential of CFST technology in facilitating the adoption of waste materials in the construction sector. Full article

Ricinus communis (Euphorbiaceae), commonly known as the castor oil plant, is prized for its versatile applications in medicine, industry, and agriculture. It features large, deeply lobed leaves with vibrant colours, robust stems with anthocyanin pigments, and extensive root systems for nutrient absorption. Its terminal panicle-like inflorescences bear monoecious flowers, and its seeds are enclosed in prickly capsules. Throughout its various parts, R. communis harbours a diverse array of bioactive compounds. Leaves contain tannins, which exhibit astringent and antimicrobial properties, and alkaloids like ricinine, known for anti-inflammatory properties, as well as flavonoids like rutin, offering antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Roots contain ellagitannins, lupeol, and indole-3-acetic acid, known for anti-inflammatory and liver-protective effects. Seeds are renowned for ricin, ricinine, and phenolic compounds crucial for industrial applications such as biodegradable polymers. Pharmacologically, it demonstrates antioxidant effects from flavonoids and tannins, confirmed through minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays for antibacterial activity. It shows potential in managing diabetes via insulin signalling pathways and exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by activating nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Additionally, it has anti-fertility effects and potential anticancer activity against cancer stem cells. This review aims to summarize Ricinus communis’s botanical properties, therapeutic uses, chemical composition, pharmacological effects, and industrial applications. Integrating the current knowledge offers insights into future research directions, emphasizing the plant’s diverse roles in agriculture, medicine, and industry. Full article

The combined application of fibers and lightweight aggregates (LWAs) represents an effective approach to achieving high-strength, lightweight concrete. To enhance the predictability of the mechanical properties of fiber-reinforced lightweight aggregate concrete (LWAC), this study conducts an in-depth investigation into its hydration characteristics. In this study, high-strength LWAC was developed by incorporating low water absorption LWAs, various volume fractions of basalt fiber (BF) (0.1%, 0.2%, and 0.3%), and a ternary cementitious system consisting of 70% cement, 20% fly ash, and 10% silica fume. The hydration-related properties were evaluated through isothermal calorimetry test and high-temperature calcination test. The results indicate that incorporating 0.1–0.3% fibers into the cementitious system delays the early hydration process, with a reduced peak heat release rate and a delayed peak heat release time compared to the control group. However, fitting the cumulative heat release over a 72-h period using the Knudsen equation suggests that BF has a minor impact on the final degree of hydration, with the difference in maximum heat release not exceeding 3%. Additionally, the calculation model for the final degree of hydration in the ternary binding system was also revised based on the maximum heat release at different water-to-binder ratios. The results for chemically bound water content show that compared with the pre-wetted LWA group, under identical net water content conditions, the non-pre-wetted LWA group exhibits a significant reduction at three days, with a decrease of 28.8%; while under identical total water content conditions it shows maximum reduction at ninety days with a decrease of 5%. This indicates that pre-wetted LWAs help maintain an effective water-to-binder ratio and facilitate continuous advancement in long-term hydration reactions. Based on these results, influence coefficients related to LWAs for both final degree of hydration and hydration rate were integrated into calculation models for degrees of hydration. Ultimately, this study verified reliability of strength prediction models based on degrees of hydration. Full article

Australia has the highest per capita penetration of rooftop solar PV systems in the world. Integration of these systems has led to reverse power flow and associated voltage rise problems in residential low-voltage (LV) distribution networks. Furthermore, random, uncontrolled connection of single-phase solar systems can exacerbate voltage unbalance in these networks. This paper investigates the application of a Static Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM) for the improvement of voltage regulation in four-wire LV distribution feeders through reactive power management as a means of mitigating voltage regulation and unbalance challenges. To demonstrate the performance of the STATCOM with varying loads and PV output, a Q-V droop curve is applied to specify the level of reactive power injection/absorption required to maintain appropriate voltage regulation. A practical four-wire feeder from New South Wales, Australia, has been used as a case study network to analyse improvements in system performance through the use of the STATCOM. The outcomes indicate that the STATCOM has a high degree of efficacy in mitigating voltage regulation and unbalance excursions. In addition, compared to other solutions identified in the existing literature, the STATCOM-based solution requires no sophisticated communication infrastructure. Full article

Hypertension is an important risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. High salt intake when consumed with excess fructose enhances hypertension and resultant cardiovascular disease. Usually, the small intestine absorbs dietary fructose, and the proximal tubule of kidney reabsorbs filtered fructose into the circulation with the help of different transporters including SGLT4 and SGLT5. Very recently, SGLT5 mRNA has also been found to be expressed in the heart. High-fructose diet stimulates the sympathetic nervous system and renin–angiotensin–aldosterone (RAAS) activity, of which both are responsible for endothelial dysfunction and are associated with salt-sensitive hypertension. Few studies exist regarding the effects of SGLT4 and SGLT5 on cardiovascular function and blood pressure. However, SGLT4 gene knockout does not alter fructose-associated impact on blood pressure. In contrast, blood pressure does not increase in SGLT5 knockout rats even during fructose consumption. Given that limiting fructose and salt consumption as a public health strategy has proven challenging, we hope that studies into SGLT4 and SGLT5 transporters will open new research initiatives to address salt-sensitive hypertension and cardiovascular disease. This review highlights current information about SGLT4 and SGLT5 on fructose absorption, salt-sensitive hypertension, cardiovascular disease and points the way for the development of therapeutic fructose inhibitors that limit adverse effects. Full article

The unique molecular fingerprint spectral characteristics in the terahertz (THz) band provide distinct advantages for non-destructive and rapid biomolecular detection. However, conventional THz metasurface biosensors still face significant challenges in achieving highly sensitive and precise detection. This study proposes a sensing platform based on quasi-bound states in the continuum (Quasi-BIC), which enhances molecular fingerprint recognition through resonance amplification. We designed a symmetric graphene double-split square ring metasurface structure. By modulating the Fermi level of graphene, this system generated continuously tunable Quasi-BIC resonance peaks across a broad THz spectral range, achieving precise spectral overlap with the characteristic absorption lines of lactose (1.19 THz and 1.37 THz) and tyrosine (0.958 THz). The results demonstrated a remarkable 763-fold enhancement in absorption peak intensity through envelope analysis for analytes with 0.1 μm thickness, compared to conventional bare substrate detection. This terahertz BIC metasurface sensor demonstrates high detection sensitivity, holding significant application value in fields such as biomedical diagnosis, food safety, and pharmaceutical testing. Full article

Irradiation with ultraviolet light-emitting diodes (UV-LEDs) represents a promising method for viral inactivation, but a detailed understanding of the wavelength-dependent action spectra remains limited, particularly across different viral components. In this study, we established standardized UV action spectra for infectivity reduction in pathogenic viruses using a system equipped with interchangeable LEDs at 13 different peak wavelengths (250–365 nm). The reduction in viral infectivity induced by UV-LED exposure was strongly related to viral genome damage, whereas no significant degradation of viral structural proteins was detected. Peak virucidal efficiency was observed at 267–270 nm across all tested viruses, representing a slight shift from the traditionally expected 260 nm nucleic acid absorption peak. Enveloped RNA viruses, including influenza A virus, respiratory syncytial virus, and coronavirus, exhibited greater UV sensitivity than nonenveloped viruses such as feline calicivirus and adenovirus. These observations indicate that structural characteristics, such as the presence of an envelope and genome organization, influence UV susceptibility. The wavelength-specific action spectra established in this study provide critical data for optimizing UV-LED disinfection systems to achieve efficient viral inactivation while minimizing energy consumption in healthcare, food safety, and environmental sanitation. Full article