Search Results (504)

A new generation of compact radon detectors with high sensitivity and fine spatial resolution (1–2 cm scale) was used to investigate indoor radon distribution and identify potential entry pathways. Solid-state nuclear track detectors (Kodak-Pathe LR-115 type II, Dosirad, France), combined with activated carbon fabric (ACC-5092-10), enabled sensitive, spatially resolved radon measurements. Two case studies were conducted: Case 1 involves a room with elevated radon levels suspected to originate from the floor. Case 2 involves a house with persistently high indoor radon concentrations despite active basement ventilation. In the first case, radon emission from the floor was found to be highly inhomogeneous, with concentrations varying by more than a factor of four. In the second, unexpectedly high radon levels were detected at electrical switches and outlets on walls in the living space, suggesting radon transport through wall voids and entry via non-hermetic electrical fittings. These novel detectors facilitate fine-scale mapping of indoor radon concentrations, revealing ingress routes that were previously undetectable. Their use can significantly enhance radon diagnostics and support the development of more effective mitigation strategies. Full article

This study investigates the influence of façade-design parameters on daylighting performance in hot arid climates, with a particular focus on Egypt. A total of nine façade configurations of a residential building were modeled and simulated using Autodesk Revit and Insight 360, varying three critical variables: glazing type (clear, blue, and dark), Window-to-Wall Ratio (WWR) of 15%, 50%, 75%, and indoor wall finish (light, moderate, dark) colors. These were compared to the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) daylighting quality thresholds. The results revealed that clear glazing paired with high WWR (75%) achieved the highest Spatial Daylight Autonomy (sDA), reaching up to 92% in living spaces. However, this also led to elevated Annual Sunlight Exposure (ASE), with peak values of 53%, exceeding the LEED discomfort threshold of 10%. Blue and dark glazing types successfully reduced ASE to as low as 0–13%, yet often resulted in underlit spaces, especially in private rooms such as bedrooms and bathrooms, with sDA values falling below 20%. A 50% WWR emerged as the optimal balance, providing consistent daylight distribution while maintaining ASE within acceptable limits (≤33%). Similarly, moderate color wall finishes delivered the most balanced lighting performance, enhancing sDA by up to 30% while controlling reflective glare. Statistical analysis using Pearson correlation revealed a strong positive relationship between sDA and ASE (r = 0.84) in highly glazed, clear glass scenarios. Sensitivity analysis further indicated that low WWR configurations of 15% were highly influenced by glazing and finishing types, leading to variability in daylight metrics reaching ±40%. The study concludes that moderate glazing (blue), medium WWR (50%), and moderate color indoor finishes provide the most robust daylighting performance across diverse room types. These findings support an evidence-based approach to façade design, promoting visual comfort, daylight quality, and sustainable building practices. Full article

In this paper, we discuss the prediction of the delivery efficiency of magnetic carriers based on their properties and field parameters. We developed a theory describing the behavior of magnetic capsules in the capillaries of living systems. A partial differential equation for the spatial distribution of magnetic capsules has been obtained. We propose to characterize the interaction between the magnetic field and the capsules using a single vector, which we call “specific magnetic force”. To test our theory, we performed experiments on a model of a capillary bed and on a living organism with two types of magnetic capsules that differ in size and amount of magnetic material. The experimental results show that the distribution of the capsules in the field correlated with the theory, but there were fewer actually accumulated capsules than predicted by the theory. In the weaker fields, the difference was more significant than in stronger ones. We proposed an explanation for this phenomenon based on the assumption that a certain level of magnetic force is needed to keep the capsules close to the capillary wall. We also suggested a formula for the relationship between the probability of capsule precipitation and the magnetic force. We found the effective value of a specific magnetic force at which all the capsules attracted by the magnet reach the capillary wall. This value can be considered as the minimum level for the field at which it is, in principle, possible to achieve a significant magnetic control effect. We demonstrated that for each type of capsule, there is a specific radius of magnet for which the effective magnetic force is achieved at the largest possible distance from the magnet’s surface. For the capsules examined in this study, the maximum distance where the effective field can be achieved does not exceed 1.5 cm. The results of the study contribute to our understanding of the behavior of magnetic particles in the capillaries of living organisms when exposed to a magnetic field. Full article

High unemployment rates, inaccessible housing markets, and funding challenges create barriers to finding suitable housing for adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) who have less obvious support needs, also known as autistic adults. While public and community housing services in Aotearoa New Zealand (AoNZ) may be an option, a lack of accessible designs leaves families uncertain about future care options. This paper, part of the MBIE-funded Public Housing and Urban Regeneration: Maximising Wellbeing research programme in partnership with registered Community Housing Provider, Te Toi Mahana (TTM), takes an exploratory approach to ask how public and community housing can support and help enable semi-independent living for autistic adults. It investigates how design elements—such as dwelling layouts, material choices, colour schemes, lighting, acoustics, shared and community spaces, and external environments—impact the wellbeing of autistic adults. By extension, insights may also inform private housing design. The study focuses on autistic adults who may be considered ‘mid-to-high’ functioning or those who have been previously diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome, whose housing needs are often overlooked. It develops guiding principles and detailed guidance points for public and community housing, informed by the literature, case studies, and data from a photo elicitation study and interviews undertaken with autistic adults in AoNZ. These guiding principles are tested through the speculative redesign of a large TTM site in Newtown, Wellington, AoNZ. Findings should be of interest to government agencies, housing providers, architects, stakeholders, and others involved in shaping the built environment, as well as autistic adults and their supporters, both in AoNZ and internationally. Full article

The anatomical arrangement of the atrioventricular node has been likened to a riddle wrapped up in an enigma. There are several reasons for this alleged mystery, not least the marked variability in structure between different species. Lack of detailed knowledge of the location of the node relative to the atrial and ventricular septal structures has also contributed to previous misunderstandings. Recent studies comparing the findings of gross dissection with virtual dissection of living datasets, combined with access to a large number of serially sectioned human and animal hearts, have served to provide the evidence to solve the riddle. We summarise these findings in this review. We explain how the node is located within the atrial walls of the inferior pyramidal space. It becomes the non-branching component of the atrioventricular conduction axis as the axis extends through the plane of atrioventricular insulation to enter the infero-septal recess of the left ventricular outflow tract. The node itself is formed by contributions from the tricuspid and mitral vestibules, with extensive additional inputs from the base of the atrial septum. We show how knowledge of development enhances the appreciation of the arrangements and offers an explanation as to why, on occasion, there can be persisting nodoventricular connections. We discuss the findings relative to the circuits producing atrioventricular re-entry tachycardia. We conclude by emphasising the significance of the variation of the anatomical arrangements within different mammalian species. Full article

Predicted natural ventilation (NV) often diverges from actual performance in dwellings. This discrepancy arises in part because most design tools do not account for how occupants actually operate windows. This study aims to determine how window geometry and orientation should be adjusted when occupant behavior is considered. Survey data from 150 Melbourne residents were converted into two window-operation schedules: Same Behavior (SB), representing average patterns, and Probable Behavior (PB), capturing stochastic responses to comfort, privacy, and climate. Both schedules were embedded in EnergyPlus and applied to over 200 annual simulations across five window-design stories that varied orientations, placements, and window-to-wall ratios (WWRs). Each story was tested across two living room wall dimensions (7 m and 4.5 m) and evaluated for air-change rate per hour (ACH) and solar gains. PB increased annual ACH by 5–12% over SB, with the greatest uplift in north-facing cross-ventilated layouts on the wider wall. Integrating probabilistic occupant behavior into window design remarkably improves NV effectiveness, with peak summer ACH reaching 4.8, indicating high ventilation rates that support thermal comfort and improved IAQ without mechanical assistance. These results highlight the potential of occupant-responsive window configurations to reduce reliance on mechanical cooling and enhance indoor air quality (IAQ). This study contributes a replicable occupant-centered workflow and ready-to-apply design rules for Australian temperate climates, adapted to different climate zones. Future research will extend the method to different climates, housing types, and user profiles and will integrate smart-sensor feedback, adaptive glazing, and hybrid ventilation strategies through multi-objective optimization. Full article

Urban regulations in Amman, Jordan, enforce uniform building setbacks irrespective of topography, exacerbating shading effects and compromising daylight access in residential areas—a critical factor for occupant health and psychological well-being. This study evaluates the interplay between standardized setbacks, slope variations (0–30%), and shadow patterns in Amman’s dense, mountainous urban fabric. Focusing on the Al Jubayhah district, a mixed-methods approach was used, combining field surveys, 3D modeling (Revit), and seasonal shadow simulations (March, September, December) to quantify daylight deprivation. The results reveal severe shading in winter (78.3% site coverage in December) and identify slope-dependent setbacks as a key determinant: for instance, a 15 m building on a 30% slope requires a 26.4 m rear setback to mitigate shadows, compared to 13.8 m on flat terrain. Over 39% of basements in the study area remain permanently shaded due to retaining walls, correlating with poor living conditions. The findings challenge Amman’s one-size-fits-all regulatory framework (Building Code No. 67, 1979), and we propose adaptive guidelines, including slope-adjusted setbacks, restricted basement usage, and optimized street orientation. This research underscores the urgency of context-sensitive urban policies in mountainous cities to balance developmental density with daylight equity, offering a replicable methodology for similar Mediterranean climates. Full article

This study aimed to perform ultrasonography of the tympanic bulla in healthy, non-sedated camelids for the first time. In the first step, dissection and sonography in cadaver specimens allowed the essential identification of the anatomical structures of the region of interest. Ultrasonography of the tympanic bulla was then performed on 71 healthy llamas and alpacas, and the length of the visible lateral bulla wall was measured sonographically. The reproducibility of measuring was determined between two examiners. Differences in length and the influences of gender, age, and body condition scores were monitored. A 10 MHz linear probe was positioned in the rostrocaudal and dorsoventral directions caudal to the mandibular ramus and ventral to the base of the ear using a lateral approach. The equipment used proved to be appropriate to visualize the tympanic bulla, the zygomatic bone, the paracondylar process, the external ear canal, and the parotid gland in the cadaver specimens and all live animals. Llamas revealed a significantly longer visible lateral bulla wall than alpacas, but its length was not influenced by gender, body condition score, or age. In alpacas, older females showed a significantly shorter tympanic bulla wall. The intra- and inter-observer reliability yielded a significant agreement. Based on this study’s results, ultrasonography may serve as a non-invasive diagnostic tool for detecting osseous and soft-tissue changes in camelids with otitis media. Full article

Metals are natural components of the lithosphere, whose amounts and bioavailability are increasing in many areas due to their continuous release from both natural sources and intensive human activities. Some metals are essential or beneficial for living organisms, while others are non-essential and potentially toxic. When present at higher concentrations, even essential and beneficial metal ions can become harmful to all forms of life. Bacteria, unicellular organisms that have been exposed to metals since the earliest stages of life on Earth, have evolved metabolic pathways involving essential metals as well as diverse strategies to cope with metal toxicity. In the domain Bacteria, two main strategies have been identified: (i) metal exclusion, which includes cell wall sequestration and immobilization of metals in extracellular exopolysaccharides, siderophores, and other soluble microbial products, as well as (ii) metal tolerance, involving intracellular sequestration of metals (e.g., by metallothioneins, or low molecular weight thiols) as well as enzymatic conversion of metals to less toxic forms and/or its active efflux. Microorganisms possessing such adaptive traits are considered valuable agents for potential application in medicine, environmental sciences, and bioengineering (e.g., bioremediation and/or biomining). Full article

This paper explores the optimal configuration strategies for building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems in response to the low-carbon transformation needs of semi-outdoor substations, aiming to reconcile the contradiction between photovoltaic (PV) power generation efficiency and indoor environmental control in industrial buildings. Taking a 220 kV semi-outdoor substation of the China Southern Power Grid as a case study, a building energy consumption–PV power generation coupling model was established using EnergyPlus software. The impacts of three PV wall constructions and different building orientations on a transformer room and an air-conditioned living space were analyzed. The results show the EPS-filled PV structure offers superior passive thermal performance and cooling energy savings, making it more suitable for substation applications with high thermal loads. Building orientation plays a decisive role in the net energy performance, with an east–west alignment significantly enhancing the PV module’s output and energy efficiency due to better solar exposure. Based on current component costs, electricity prices, and subsidies, the BIPV system demonstrates a moderate annual return, though the relatively long payback period presents a challenge for widespread adoption. East–west orientations offer better returns due to their higher solar exposure. It is recommended to adopt east–west layouts in EPS-filled PV construction to optimize both energy performance and economic performance, while further shortening the payback period through technical and policy support. This study provides an optimized design path for industrial BIPV module integration and aids power infrastructure’s low-carbon shift. Full article

The Great Wall of China is a cultural monument of profound historical significance and a testament to the evolution of various historical periods. As a living heritage, it holds exceptional value. However, due to inadequate protection measures in recent years, numerous sections of the Great Wall have been subject to continuous degradation. While damage to its main structural components and explicit heritage elements has been widely acknowledged, the more critical issue lies in the ambiguous recognition and insufficient safeguarding of its implicit heritage elements. This study explores the composition and classification of protective elements associated with the Great Wall, proposing a framework that emphasizes the dual safeguarding of both its tangible structures and intangible cultural significance. Employing big data collection through search engine optimization (SEO) techniques and questionnaire surveys, this research analyzes recent trends in the prioritization of heritage conservation efforts related to the Great Wall. Furthermore, by constructing a mathematical model based on the “grey relational analysis” method, the study classifies and stratifies various heritage elements to highlight the Wall’s core values and propose targeted protection strategies. The findings reveal that (1) certain regions possess considerable development potential and can be restored and planned as cultural tourism destinations; (2) conservation efforts should prioritize material restoration while preserving the intrinsic spiritual and cultural values; (3) a living heritage transmission strategy should underpin the overall protection framework. Ultimately, the study establishes a classification and grading system for conservation elements centered on the sustainable development of the Great Wall heritage. By concretely mapping the concept of living heritage protection onto the various protective elements of the Great Wall, this research offers valuable insights and recommendations for enhancing conservation practices. Full article

The effects of different carrier agents—pea protein (PP), rice protein (RP), bean protein (BP), whey protein (WP), and maltodextrin (MT, as a control)—on pitaya juice encapsulation via spray drying were evaluated. Juice and carrier mixtures (30% w/v) were dried at 150 °C, and the resulting powders were analyzed for water activity (aw), hygroscopicity (Hg), water solubility (WSI), bulk density (BD), glass transition temperature (Tg), water absorption (WAI), antioxidant activity (AA), total polyphenol content (TPC), total betalain (TB) content, and TB stability. Vegetable proteins showed promising results, significantly impacting the protein content, Hg content, WAI, WSI, AA, TPC, and TB content and resulting in high Tg values. PP showed the best results, with high betalain retention (>30%), high TPC and AA, high protein levels, and low Hg, similarly to MT. WP had the highest TB, AA, and TPC but the lowest Tg (47.21 °C), thus reducing stability. Encapsulates obtained with plant protein-based wall materials presented high Tg (>58 °C); low aw, WSI, and Hg; high protein contents >40%; and adequate retention of bioactive compounds, with low degradation rate constants and long half-lives. Overall, plant proteins are promising alternatives to traditional carriers, offering improved stability and functionality in encapsulated products. Full article

Rubber is widely used in daily lives, such as in automobile tires, conveyor belts, sealing rings, and gaskets. The performance of rubber determines its service life. Therefore, it is of crucial importance to improve the performance of rubber. Theoretical studies have found that the inherent properties of nanofillers themselves, the interfacial bonding force between fillers and the matrix, and the uniform dispersibility of nanofillers in the polymer matrix are the most significant factors for enhancing the performance of rubber nanocomposites. This study systematically investigated the synergistic enhancement effect of silicon carbide (SiC) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) on the mechanical and thermal properties of ethylene–butene–terpolymer (EBT) composites. By optimizing the addition amount of fillers and improving the interfacial bonding between fillers and the matrix, the influence of filler content on the properties of composites was studied. The results demonstrate that the addition of SiC and MWCNTs significantly improved the storage modulus, tensile strength, hardness, and thermal stability of the composites. In terms of mechanical properties, the tensile strength of the composites increased from 6.68 MPa of pure EBT to 8.46 MPa, and the 100% modulus increased from 2.14 MPa to 3.81 MPa. Moreover, hardness was significantly enhanced under the reinforcement of SiC/CNT fillers. In terms of thermal stability, the composites exhibited excellent resistance to deformation at high temperatures. Through the analysis of the mechanical and thermal properties of the composites, the synergistic enhancement mechanism between SiC and MWCNTs was revealed. The research results provide a theoretical basis for the design and engineering applications of high-performance ethylene–butylene rubber composites. Full article

Impatiens reidii Hook.f., a presumed extinct and Kumaon endemic species only known from its type collection in 1886, is rediscovered from near type locality after a gap of 138 years. The identity of the historically ambiguous name Impatiens tingens Edgew. is reinvestigated based on studies of literature, type specimens, and recollection of live material from the type locality that confirmed the name I. tingens is conspecific with I. scullyi Hook.f. and thus latter name is synonymised. Impatiens inayatii Hook.f., another little-known species described by Hooker as endemic to Kali valley, Kumaon currently treated as a synonym of Impatiens bicornuta Wall., is recollected from near the type locality after 124 years. Our recollection confirms its identity as a totally distinct species from section Urticifoliae S.Akiyama and H.Ohba, thus reinstating name I. inayatii. Augmented description for all three species is provided with information on their botanical history, species etymology, key identification characteristics, distribution, phenology, ecology, and first photographic documentation of I. reidii and I. inayatii. Also, lectotypes are designated for the names I. reidii, I. tingens, I. laxiflora var. stracheyi Hook.f. and I. micranthemum Edgew. Full article

Various high-throughput screening methods have been developed to explore plant phenotypes, primarily at the organ and whole plant levels. There is a need to develop phenomics methods at the cellular level to narrow down the genotype to phenotype gap. This study used double-resonator piezoelectric cytometry biosensors to capture the dynamic changes in mechanical phenotypes of living cells of two rice species, drought-resistant Lvhan No. 1 and drought-sensitive 6527, under PEG6000 drought stress. In rice cells of Lvhan No. 1 and 6527, mechanomics parameters, including cell-generated surface stress (ΔS) and viscoelastic parameters (G′, G″, G″/G′), were measured and compared under 5–25% PEG6000. Lvhan No. 1 showed larger viscoelastic but smaller surface stress changes with the same concentration of PEG6000. Moreover, Lvhan No. 1 cells showed better wall–plasma membrane–cytoskeleton continuum structure maintaining ability under drought stress, as proven by transient tension stress (ΔS > 0) and linear G′~ΔS, G″~ΔS relations at higher 15–25% PEG6000, but not for 6527 cells. Additionally, two distinct defense and drought resistance mechanisms were identified through dynamic G″/G′ responses: (i) transient hardening followed by softening recovery under weak drought, and (ii) transient softening followed by hardening recovery under strong drought. The abilities of Lvhan No. 1 cells to both recover from transient hardening to softening and to recover from transient softening to hardening are better than those of 6527 cells. Overall, the dynamic mechanomics phenotypic patterns (ΔS, G′, G″, G″/G′, G′~ΔS, G″~ΔS) verified that Lvhan No. 1 has better drought resistance than that of 6527, which is consistent with the field data. Full article