Search Results (1,998)

With the rapid increase in traffic volume and the number of heavy-duty vehicles, the load on asphalt pavements has increased significantly. Especially on sections with long longitudinal slopes, the internal stress conditions of asphalt pavement have become even more complex. This study aims to investigate the thermal–mechanical coupling behavior of asphalt pavement structures on long longitudinal slopes under the combined influence of temperature fields and moving loads. A pavement temperature field model was developed based on the climatic conditions of Nanning (AAT: 21.8 °C; Tmax: 37 °C; Tmin: 3 °C; AAP: 1453.4 mm). In addition, a three-dimensional finite element model of asphalt pavement structures on long longitudinal slopes was established using finite element software. Variations in pavement mechanical responses were compared under different vehicle axle loads (100–200 kN), slope gradients (0–5%), braking coefficients (0–0.7), and asphalt mixture layer thicknesses (2–8 cm). The results indicate that the pavement structure exhibits a strong capacity for pressure attenuation, with the middle and lower surface layers showing more pronounced stress reduction—up to 40%—significantly greater than the 6.5% observed in the upper surface layer. As the axle load increases from 100 kN to 200 kN, the internal mechanical responses of the pavement show a linear relationship with load magnitude, with an average increase of approximately 29%. In addition, the internal shearing stress of the pavement is more sensitive to changes in slope and braking coefficient; when the slope increases from 0% to 5% and the braking coefficient increases from 0 to 0.7, the shear stress at the bottom of the upper surface layer increases by 12% and 268%, respectively. This study provides guidance for the design of asphalt pavements on long longitudinal slopes. In future designs, special attention should be given to enhancing the shear strength of the surface layer and improving the interlayer bonding performance. In particular, under conditions of steep slopes and frequent heavy vehicle traffic, the thickness and modulus of the upper surface asphalt mixture may be appropriately increased. Full article

The southeastern Yunnan region in the southwestern Nanpanjiang Basin is one of the most important manganese enrichment zones in China. Manganese mineralization is mainly confined to marine mud–sand–carbonate interbeds of the Middle Triassic Ladinian Falang Formation (T₂f), which contains several medium to large deposits such as Dounan, Baixian, and Yanzijiao. However, the geological processes that control manganese mineralization in this region remain insufficiently understood. Understanding the tectonic evolution of the basin is therefore essential to unravel the mechanisms of Middle Triassic metallogenesis. This study investigates how rift-related tectonic activity influences manganese ore formation. This study integrates global gravity and magnetic field models (WGM2012, EMAG2v3), audio-frequency magnetotelluric (AMT) profiles, and regional geological data to investigate ore-controlling structures. A distinct gravity low–magnetic high belt is delineated along the basin axis, indicating lithospheric thinning and enhanced mantle-derived heat flow. Structural interpretation reveals a rift system with a checkerboard pattern formed by intersecting NE-trending major faults and NW-trending secondary faults. Four hydrothermal plume centers are identified at these fault intersections. AMT profiles show that manganese ore bodies correspond to stable low-resistivity zones, suggesting fluid-rich, hydrothermally altered horizons. These findings demonstrate a strong spatial coupling between hydrothermal activity and mineralization. This study provides the first identification of the internal rift architecture within the Nanpanjiang Basin. The basin-scale rift–graben system exerts first-order control on sedimentation and manganese metallogenesis, supporting a trinity model of tectonic control, hydrothermal fluid transport, and sedimentary enrichment. These insights not only improve our understanding of rift-related manganese formation in southeastern Yunnan but also offer a methodological framework applicable to similar rift basins worldwide. Full article

The purpose of this research is to examine employee perceptions regarding the implementation of ESG (environmental, social, and governance) practices in financial institutions, with a comparative focus on urban and rural banks in the Republic of Serbia. The study investigates how employees assess environmental, social, and governance aspects of ESG, as well as their own role in applying these principles in everyday work. The results reveal statistically significant differences between the two groups; employees in urban banks report greater engagement, more access to training, and stronger involvement in ESG decision-making. These findings suggest the existence of more developed institutional support, infrastructure, and organisational culture in urban banks. In contrast, employees in rural banks highlight the need for enhanced training, clearer ESG guidance, and improved oversight mechanisms. The study underlines the importance of investing in employee development and internal communication, particularly in rural contexts, to improve ESG outcomes. By focusing on employee-level perceptions, this research contributes to the understanding of how organisational and geographic factors influence the implementation of ESG-related practices in financial institutions. Full article

The stability of shield tunnel segmental linings is highly sensitive to the lateral pressure coefficient, especially under weak, heterogeneous, and variable geological conditions. However, the mechanical behavior of steel plate-reinforced linings under such conditions remains insufficiently characterized. This study aims to investigate the effects of varying lateral pressures on the structural performance of reinforced tunnel linings. To achieve this, a custom-designed full-circumference loading and unloading self-balancing apparatus was developed for scaled-model testing of shield tunnels. The experimental methodology allowed for precise control of loading paths, enabling the simulation of realistic ground stress states and the assessment of internal force distribution, joint response, and load transfer mechanisms during the elastic stage of the structure. Results reveal that increased lateral pressure enhances the stiffness and bearing capacity of the reinforced lining. The presence and orientation of segment joints, as well as the bonding performance between epoxy resin and expansion bolts at the reinforcement interface, significantly influence stress redistribution in steel plate-reinforced zones. These findings not only deepen the understanding of tunnel behavior in complex geological environments but also offer practical guidance for optimizing reinforcement design and improving the durability and safety of shield tunnels. Full article

This study investigates the combined influence of superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) with distinct absorption kinetics and extended mixing sequences on the rheological, mechanical, and transport properties of high-performance concrete (HPC). Two SAPs—an ionic acrylamide-co-acrylic acid copolymer (SAP-P) and a non-ionic acrylamide polymer (SAP-B)—were incorporated at an internal curing level of 100%. The impact of extended mixing times (3, 5, and 7 min) following SAP addition was systematically evaluated. Results showed that longer mixing durations led to increased superplasticizer demand and higher plastic viscosity due to continued water absorption by SAPs. However, yield stress remained relatively stable owing to the dispersing effect of the added superplasticizer. Both SAPs significantly enhanced the static yield stress and improved fresh stability, as evidenced by reduced surface settlement. Despite the rheological changes, mechanical properties—including compressive and flexural strengths and modulus of elasticity—were consistently improved, regardless of mixing duration. SAP incorporation also led to notable reductions in autogenous and drying shrinkage, as well as enhanced electrical resistivity, indicating better durability performance. These findings suggest that a 3 min extended mixing time is sufficient for effective SAP dispersion without compromising performance. Full article

Sarcopenia is a progressive age-related musculoskeletal disorder characterized by loss of muscle mass, strength, and physical performance, contributing to functional decline and increased risk of disability. Emerging evidence suggests that vitamin D (Vit D) plays a pivotal role in skeletal muscle physiology beyond its classical functions in bone metabolism. This review aims to critically analyze the relationship between serum Vit D levels and sarcopenia in older adults, focusing on pathophysiological mechanisms, diagnostic criteria, clinical evidence, and preventive strategies. An integrative narrative review of observational studies, randomized controlled trials, and meta-analyses published in the last decade was conducted. The analysis incorporated international diagnostic criteria for sarcopenia (EWGSOP2, AWGS, FNIH, IWGS), current guidelines for Vit D sufficiency, and molecular mechanisms related to Vit D receptor (VDR) signaling in muscle tissue. Low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels are consistently associated with decreased muscle strength, reduced physical performance, and increased prevalence of sarcopenia. Although interventional trials using Vit D supplementation report variable results, benefits are more evident in individuals with baseline deficiency and when combined with protein intake and resistance training. Mechanistically, Vit D influences muscle health via genomic and non-genomic pathways, regulating calcium homeostasis, mitochondrial function, oxidative stress, and inflammatory signaling. Vit D deficiency represents a modifiable risk factor for sarcopenia and functional impairment in older adults. While current evidence supports its role in muscular health, future high-quality trials are needed to establish optimal serum thresholds and dosing strategies for prevention and treatment. An individualized, multimodal approach involving supplementation, exercise, and nutritional optimization appears most promising. Full article

As an integral component of humanity’s cultural heritage, traditional villages universally confront challenges such as population loss and cultural discontinuity amid rapid urbanization. Cluster-based protection models have increasingly become the international consensus for addressing the survival crisis of such settlements. This study selects the Central Yunnan region of Southwest China—characterized by its complex geography and multi-ethnic habitation—as the research area. Employing ArcGIS spatial analysis techniques alongside clustering algorithms, we examine the spatial distribution characteristics and clustering patterns of 251 traditional villages within this region. The findings are as follows. In terms of spatial distribution, traditional villages in Central Yunnan are unevenly dispersed, predominantly aggregating on mid-elevation gentle slopes; their locations are chiefly influenced by rivers and historical courier routes, albeit with only indirect dependence on waterways. Regarding single-cluster attributes, the spatial and geomorphological features exhibit a composite “band-and-group” pattern shaped by river valleys; culturally, two dominant modes emerge—“ancient-route-dependent” and “ethnic-symbiosis”—reflecting an economy-driven cultural mechanism alongside latent marginalization risks. Concerning construction characteristics, the “Qionglong-Ganlan” and Han-style “One-seal” residential features stand out, illustrating both adaptation to mountainous environments and the cumulative effects of historical culture. Based on these insights, we propose a three-tiered clustering classification framework—“comprehensive-element coordination”, “feature-led”, and “potential-cultivation”—to inform the development of contiguous and typological protection strategies for traditional villages in highland, multi-ethnic regions. Full article

Childhood obesity is a growing global health concern, with established links to physical activity, nutrition, and, increasingly, to prenatal and perinatal factors. Emerging evidence highlights the significant role of maternal conditions such as obesity, comorbidities, nutrition, and environmental exposures in predisposing offspring to long-term metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. The “Developmental Origins of Health and Disease” (DOHaD) paradigm provides a framework for understanding how early life environmental exposures, particularly during the periconceptional, fetal, and neonatal periods, can program future health outcomes through epigenetic mechanisms. Epigenetic modifications alter gene expression without changing the DNA sequence and are increasingly recognized as key mediators in the development of obesity. This narrative review summarizes current findings on the early determinants of childhood obesity, emphasizing the molecular and epigenetic pathways involved. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases and international sources, focusing on recent studies from the past decade. Both human and animal research were included to provide a broad perspective. This review aims to consolidate recent insights into early life influences on obesity, underscoring the need for preventive strategies starting as early as the preconception period. Full article

Background/Objectives: Increasing evidence suggests that lncRNAs are core regulators in the field of tumor progression, with context-specific functions in oncogenic tumorigenesis. LINC01133, a lncRNA that has been identified as both an oncogene and a tumor suppressor, remains largely unexplored in terms of its molecular mechanisms. The purpose of this study was to conduct an in silico analysis, incorporating literature research on various cancer types, to investigate the structural and functional duality of LINC01133. This analysis aimed to identify pathways influenced by LINC01133 and evaluate its mechanism of action as a potential therapeutic target and diagnostic biomarker. Methods: In silico analyses and a narrative review of the literature were performed to predict conserved structural elements, functional internal loops, and overall conservation of the LINC01133 sequence among different vertebrate organisms, summarizing the empirical evidence regarding its roles as a tumor suppressor and tumor-promoting roles in various types of tumors. Results: LINC01133 harbors the evolutionarily conserved structural regions that might allow for binding to relevant driver signaling pathways, substantiating its specific functionality. Its action extends beyond classical tumor mechanisms, affecting proliferation, migration, invasion, and epigenetic pathways in various types of tumors, as indicated by the in silico results and narrative review of the literature we present here. Clinical outcome associations pointed to its potential as a biomarker. Conclusions: The dual character of LINC01133 in tumor biology further demonstrates its prospective therapeutic value, but complete elucidation of its mechanisms of action requires further investigation. This study establishes LINC01133 as a multifaceted lncRNA, supporting context-specific strategies in targeting its pathways, and calls for expanded research to harness its full potential in oncology. Full article

This study investigates the influence of weaving process parameters on the structural homogeneity of woven fabrics, with a focus on the structural autoregulation phenomenon. Two experimental fabric groups of 30 each, plain and twill weaves, were produced using varied loom settings: shed closure timing, lease rod position, backrest roller position, warp pre-tension, and yarn twist direction. Structural uniformity was assessed using a proprietary method and the MagFABRIC 2.1. image analysis system, which quantify intra-repeat, inter-repeat, and global inhomogeneity. This method uses the size, shape, and location of inter-thread pores as well as warp and weft pitches. The results indicate that autoregulation can reduce local structural disturbances, including warp yarn grouping. In plain weaves, loom parameters and humidity significantly contributed to structural autoregulation. In contrast, twill weaves demonstrated dominant internal feedback mechanisms, significantly influenced by yarn twist direction. Regression models at F = 10 revealed nonlinear interactions, confirming autoregulation and experimentally supporting Nosek’s quasi-dynamic theory for these types of fabrics. The results of these studies have practical relevance in high-performance textiles such as filtration, barrier fabrics, and composite reinforcements, where local structural deviations critically affect the functional properties of fabrics. Full article

This paper analyzes the historical genealogy of conspiracy theories about a global supergovernment by focusing on one period of American history in which it attained particular visibility. The formation of the United Nations in 1945 and the onset of the Cold War galvanized speculation on the political margins that a shadowy, malevolent international government was seeking world domination by targeting the United States and its political culture. At the same time, mainstream United States foreign policy was marked by a desire to both reshape international institutions to resist Soviet influence while also avoiding any domestic changes that might result from international engagement. This paper suggests that conspiracy theory functioned as a mechanism resolving the vicious circle occasioned by these competing foreign policy priorities. Through a narrative analysis of conspiratorial sentiments in North Dakota Representative Usher L. Burdick’s warnings about the United Nations as a threat to American liberty and sovereignty, this article highlights the continuities between mainstream American exceptionalism and conspiratorial ideas. Full article

The excellent moisture transport properties of yarns play a crucial role in improving the liquid moisture transfer behavior within textiles and maintaining their thermal-wet comfort. However, the current research on the moisture management performance of fabrics made from yarns with excellent liquid transport properties primarily compares the wicking results, without considering the varying requirements of testing conditions due to differences in human sweating rates during daily activities. Moreover, the understanding of moisture transport mechanisms in yarns within fabrics under different testing conditions remains insufficient. In this study, two types of twisted combination yarns, composed of hydrophobic profiled polyester filaments and hydrophilic spun yarns to form a hydrophobic-hydrophilic gradient along the axial direction of the yarn, were developed and compared with profiled polyester filaments to understand the liquid migration behaviors in the knitted fabrics formed by these yarns. Results showed that hydrophobic profiled polyester filament yarn demonstrated superior liquid transport performance with infinite saturated liquid supply (vertical wicking test). In contrast, the twisted combination yarns exhibited better moisture diffusion properties under limited liquid droplet supply conditions (droplet diffusion test and moisture management test). These contradictory findings indicated that the amount of liquid moisture supply in testing conditions significantly affected the moisture transport performance of yarns within fabrics. It was revealed that the liquid moisture in the twisted combination yarns migrated through capillary wicking for moisture transfer. Under an infinite saturated liquid supply condition, the higher the content of hydrophilic fibers in the spun yarns, the greater the amount of moisture transferred, demonstrating an excellent liquid transport performance. Under the limited liquid droplet supply conditions, both the volume of liquid water and the moisture absorption capacity of the yarn jointly influence internal moisture migration within the yarn. It provided a theoretical reference for testing the internal moisture wicking performance of fabrics under different states of human sweating. Full article

The shear tests are conducted on six precast segmental concrete beams (PSCBs) in this paper. A new specimen design scheme is presented to compare the effects of segmental joints on the shear performance of PSCBs. The failure modes, shear strength, structural deflection, stirrup strain, and tendon stress are recorded. The factors of shear span ratio, the position of segmental joints, and hybrid tendon ratio are focused on, and their effects on the shear behaviors are compared. Based on the measured responses, the shear contribution proportions of concrete segments, prestressed tendons, and stirrups are decomposed and quantified. With the observed failure modes, the truss–arch model is employed to clarify the shear mechanism of PSCBs, and simplified equations are further developed for predicting the shear strength. Using the collected test results of 30 specimens, the validity of the proposed equations is verified with a mean ratio of calculated-to-test values of 0.96 and a standard deviation of 0.11. Furthermore, the influence mechanism of shear span ratio, segmental joints, prestressing force, and hybrid tendon ratio on the shear strength is clarified. The increasing shear span ratio decreases the inclined angle of the arch ribs, thereby reducing the shear resistance contribution of the arch action. The open joints reduce the number of stirrups passing through the diagonal cracks, lowering the shear contribution of the truss action. The prestressing force can reduce the inclination of diagonal cracks, improving the contribution of truss action. The external unbonded tendon will decrease the height of the arch rib due to the second-order effects, causing lower shear strength than PSCBs with internal tendons. Full article

A variety of epigenetic mechanisms—such as DNA methylation, histone alterations, RNA chemical modifications, and regulatory non-coding RNAs—collectively influence gene regulation and cellular processes. Among these, N6-methyladenosine (m⁶A) represents the most widespread internal modification in eukaryotic mRNA, exerting significant influence on RNA metabolic pathways and modulating mRNA function at multiple levels. Studies have shown that m⁶A modification is highly enriched in the brain and regulates central nervous system development and various physiological functions. Recent studies have demonstrated that m⁶A interacts with other epigenetic regulators and triggers epigenetic remodeling, which further affects the development and occurrence of central nervous system diseases. In this review, we provide an up-to-date overview of this emerging research hotspot in biology, with a focus on the interplay between m⁶A and other epigenetic regulators. We highlight their potential roles and regulatory mechanisms in epigenetic reprogramming during central nervous system development and disease, offering insights into potential novel targets and therapeutic strategies for CNS disorders. Full article

Government support has long been viewed as a key driver of sustainable transformation and green technological progress. However, the underlying mechanisms (“how”) through which preferential policies influence green innovation, as well as the contextual conditions (“when”) that shape their effectiveness, remain insufficiently understood. Drawing on resource dependence theory, this study develops a dual-mediation framework to investigate how preferential tax policies promote both the quantity and quality of green innovation—by enhancing R&D investment as an internal mechanism and alleviating financing constraints as an external mechanism. These effects are especially salient among non-state-owned enterprises, firms in resource-constrained industries, and those situated in environmentally challenged regions—contexts that entail higher dependence on external support for sustainable development. Leveraging China’s 2017 R&D tax reduction policy as a quasi-natural experiment, this study uses a sample of high-tech small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to test the hypotheses. The findings provide robust evidence on how preferential policies contribute to corporate sustainability through green innovation and identify the conditions under which policy tools are most effective. This research offers important implications for designing targeted, sustainability-oriented innovation policies that support SMEs in transitioning toward more sustainable practices. Full article