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Abstract Land plants, especially those with significant woody biomass, represent the largest source of biomass on Earth, making the biodegradation of lignocellulosic materials critical to understanding the global carbon cycle. Cellulose, a major component of lignocellulose, is notoriously resistant to degradation due to its highly crystalline structure. While the degradation of cellulose by terrestrial microbes has been extensively studied, the mechanisms of cellulose degradation in deep-sea environments remain largely unexplored. The deep-sea ecosystem depends on organic matter, such as cellulose, that is synthesized in terrestrial environments and surface waters and descends to the deep sea. Recent studies suggest that a significant amount of cellulose is likely to reach the deep sea. Here, we present an in-depth study of cellulases from a novel deep-sea γ-proteobacterial strain TOYAMA8, isolated from Toyama Bay, Japan, using Surface Pitting Observation Technology (SPOT), a highly sensitive assay for enzymatic cellulose hydrolysis. The cellulases of strain TOYAMA8 show similarities to those of a previously reported deep-sea cellulolytic microbe, Marinagarivorans cellulosilyticus strain GE09. Genomic and transcriptomic analyses of these strains reveal novel cellulase genes and mechanisms that differ from terrestrial counterparts, shedding light on the unique adaptations of deep-sea microbes to recalcitrant biomass. In particular, these strains produce high-molecular-weight cellulases with unique domain architectures, likely optimized for membrane anchoring, which prevents enzyme diffusion and ensures efficient localized activity. Our findings provide critical insights into the microbial cellulose degradation in the deep sea, highlighting its role in the fate of organic carbon and the potential for biotechnological applications in biorefineries.

Abstract We theoretically analyzed the rotational behavior of beam–column dovetail joints in traditional Chinese timber frames in this study. An analytical model of dovetail joints at both the column head and body was designed by clarifying the moment generation mechanism and effect of rotational embedment yielding in timber perpendicular to the grain on the rotational behavior of joints. An asynchronous manifestation of rotational embedment deformation across the column surface, tenon cheeks, and upper and lower surfaces of the tenon head was analyzed, and the corresponding characteristic yield points and consequent reduction in rotational stiffness were derived in the model. The Inayama embedment theory was used to clarify the effect of rotational embedment with varying end lengths on the movement of the joint rotation center and asymmetric moment generated in different rotation directions of the column head joint. The precision of the analytical model was validated through a comparative analysis by involving nine sets of experimental data, for estimating the initial stiffness, post-yield stiffness, and identified yield points. The implications of the parameters, including the initial gap between the tenon and mortise, geometric dimensions of the dovetail tenon, and friction coefficient, were also discussed. Controlling the ratio of the initial gap and tenon height within 0.01 to ensure a certain rotational resistance of dovetail beam–column joints within the collapse limits of traditional timber frames is recommended considering the significant effect of the initial gap on the initial sliding angle and moment reduction.

Abstract Hot pressing process is an important process in the preparation of bamboo scrimber. However, due to the low thermal conductivity of fiberized bamboo veneer and the low heat transfer efficiency in the preparation of bamboo scrimber, the processing time is prolonged. At the same time, due to the influence of moisture content in the hot pressing process, the “boiler effect” of the core layer with a sharp increase in temperature and excessive steam pressure will appear, resulting in the risk of board explosion. In this study, a pavement method with gradient moisture content is explored, which can make the surface water vaporize and produce steam impact on the core layer, thus improving the heat transfer efficiency of the core layer and reducing the hot pressing period. The results show that when paving with gradient moisture content, the heating rate of the core layer is increased to a certain extent due to the promotion of steam impact on the core layer temperature. At the same time, due to the low moisture content of the core layer, the saturated steam cannot be formed from the moisture to the core layer, so the obvious “boiler effect” will not appear in the core layer, which can improve the hot pressing efficiency and reduce the risk of board explosion. In addition, this method does not reduce the mechanical properties of the panel. Meanwhile, this study introduces a straightforward gradient moisture content paving method and has made structural enhancements to the hot press machine, enabling the practical implementation of gradient moisture content paving.

Abstract To design a wooden satellite and select the appropriate wood species, we conducted a space exposure test of wood on the International Space Station (ISS). The space exposure test used the Japanese Experiment Module “Kibo” on the Exposed Experiment Bracket Attached on i-SEEP (ExBAS), which is connected to the exposed facility of the ISS. Three wood species considered candidates for the structure of a wooden satellite were used in the exposure test: honoki (Magnolia obovata), yamazakura (Cerasus jamasakura), and dakekanba (Betula ermanii). In the outgassing test conducted in preparation for the space exposure test, the collected volatile condensable materials (CVCM) of the three wood species were below the critical value; however, the total mass loss (TML) exceeded the critical value. However, this was not a problem, because most of the mass loss was due to water evaporation. A space exposure test was conducted for 10 months in 2022. Consequently, no change was observed in the weight of the exposed specimen, and no erosion due to atomic oxygen (AO) was observed. The exposure test was scheduled to be carried out in the forward direction of the ISS travel; however, owing to equipment trouble, it was installed in the opposite direction. This is because an insufficient AO flux collided with the specimen. In terms of wood color, the brightness of the three species decreased owing to space exposure, and saturation increased in two wood species, except for yamazakura. A thin-film layer was observed on the surface of the aluminum cover to which the exposed specimen was fixed, which may have also formed on the surface of the wood specimen, reducing its brightness. However, because the hue angle did not change significantly, only a slight deterioration of the surface layer owing to vacuum ultraviolet was observed. The results confirmed that the wood had hardly deteriorated in space for approximately 10 months.

为了研究索网结构静力荷载下的内力和变形特点，按照1∶10比例设计制作了西安国际足球中心的缩尺模型试件，采用新型空间结构水重力点阵加载系统逐级控制加载，以及DACS-Measure现场测量系统，分别对该模型上半跨、右半跨及全跨进行了分级静力加载试验。试验结果表明：新型空间结构点阵自动同步加载系统能实现任意比例、多点同步精确加载，普遍适用于各类空间结构加载试验；在不同加载模式下，索网竖向变形随荷载增加均基本呈现线性变化，且最大变形发生在索网洞口边缘处；上半跨荷载、右半跨荷载及全跨荷载下索力最大位置均位于索网中轴偏右位置处。研究成果可为我国以后此类索网结构的加工制造及施工应用提供技术参考。

高强度螺栓的“假拧”是螺栓球节点空间网格结构普遍存在的安全隐患及事故诱因之一。为此，提出一种空间网格结构用八角型螺栓球节点，并对其进行系统研发。介绍了该节点的组成、安装机理和主要优点。基于对该节点的研发成果，编制发布了其关键配件的产品标准——《螺栓球节点用八角型高强度螺栓和套筒》（T/CSCS 011—2021），对该标准的主要编制思路和要点进行了介绍。最后介绍了该节点在珠海机场二号航站楼指廊屋盖网架中的应用情况，对采用该节点的网架和采用焊接球节点的网架进行了对比分析，结果表明，两种节点形式网架的力学性能和设计指标基本相当，八角型螺栓球节点网架的经济性更好。上述标准和节点的首次工程应用为该节点的推广奠定了良好基础。

基于扩孔螺栓连接型耗能段和自复位SMA支撑，提出一种新型自复位耗能段，具有强耗能、高延性、低残余变形和低损伤等特点，可进一步提高偏心支撑结构的抗震性能和震后功能恢复能力。分别设计3个考虑摩擦滑移的自复位耗能段和1个普通自复位耗能段试验试件，并进行往复加载研究，得到其变形或破坏模式、滞回曲线和骨架曲线等。结果表明，滑移阶段耗能段处于相对静止状态，所有构件均处于弹性状态；非滑移阶段耗能段依次发生滑移、屈服、翼缘和腹板屈曲现象，整个过程中自复位SMA支撑中的SMA受拉，并为自复位耗能段提供承载力、耗能能力和复位力。自复位耗能段的骨架曲线主要包括弹性阶段、弹塑性阶段、强化阶段。最后，基于校正的有限元法对自复位耗能段进行分析，阐明自复位耗能段在不同阶段的耗能机理。

钢管桩作为钢栈桥的重要组成构件，在海洋环境下会受到严重的腐蚀威胁。研究了东海某钢栈桥经历5年海洋自然腐蚀后钢管桩的材料性能。从钢管桩的浪溅区、潮差区和全浸区共加工16个拉伸试件，分析各区域的退化力学性能，根据试验数据建立弹性模量、屈服强度、应变硬化指数和强度系数等参数与平均厚度剩余率相关的回归方程，依据三线型本构模型建立3个区域真实应力-应变曲线的拟合公式。结果表明：浪溅区受腐蚀影响最严重，各区域钢材力学性能均存在一定损失；回归方程可以较好地预测3个区域的屈服强度；通过比较各区域的平均厚度剩余率适用范围，可知三线型本构拟合公式适用于腐蚀较为严重的钢管桩。

轮载下正交异性钢桥面板的局部效应显著，相邻各疲劳易损细节的疲劳行为相互影响，特别是随着某个细节裂纹扩展，相邻细节疲劳应力可能增大，桥面板疲劳性能呈加速劣化趋势。疲劳应力响应及桥面板性能劣化评估已成为钢桥面板运营期面临的挑战和亟待进行的工作。为合理评估开裂正交异性钢桥面板的疲劳性能演化情况，基于既有足尺模型疲劳试验，综合采用有限元程序ANSYS和Franc3D的多尺度交互技术模拟钢桥面板典型疲劳易损细节裂纹扩展行为，探究裂纹扩展过程中各关键细节（顶板与U肋连接焊缝、U肋与横隔板连接焊缝、横隔板开孔处）的疲劳应力响应和演化情况。结果表明：裂纹扩展对正交异性钢桥面板局部变形（挠度）影响很小；不同开裂模式下，各细节处应力变化规律存在较大差异，裂纹扩展的响应呈现出局部特征，仅对最近的细节主拉应力有一定的增大效应；顶板与纵肋焊缝连接处和横隔板开孔处的裂纹扩展对相邻疲劳细节的主拉应力提升效果较显著，可能导致该处萌生裂纹。研究结果可为开裂后正交异性钢桥面板的疲劳性能评估提供参考。

波纹钢搭接接头作为装配式波纹钢地下工程结构的薄弱环节，在轴力-弯矩作用下的力学行为亟待研究。依托前期足尺试验，结合数值模拟方法，分析了螺栓数量及波纹钢板厚度对搭接接头破坏模式和抗弯承载能力的影响机理，探讨了搭接接头的优化设计方案，建立了极限弯矩经验公式。研究结果表明：我国规范的螺栓设计安全冗余较高，接头破坏模式主要表现为受压侧波纹钢板屈曲。单波螺栓数量越多、波纹钢板越厚、轴力越小，波纹钢搭接接头的抗弯承载能力越强；单波螺栓数量每增加2个，接头极限弯矩平均增长5.9%；波纹钢板厚度每增加2 mm，接头极限弯矩平均增长21.9%；当单波螺栓数量为6个、波纹钢板厚度大于6 mm时可兼顾安全性和经济性。极限弯矩经验公式的拟合优度较高，可为接头强度校核提供参考。

西安丝路欢乐世界中心塔项目为全钢结构异形塔，由内筒钢框架、外筒网壳、大悬挑轮辐式裙摆桁架、顶部莫比乌斯圆环和外筒造型丝带组成。以西安丝路塔项目顶部莫比乌斯环为对象，提出了一种超高立面大直径莫比乌斯环内支撑体系施工技术，对该技术涉及的内支撑体系设计要点、莫比乌斯环分块原则、分块吊装变形预偏技术和分块吊装累积变形控制方法进行了探讨，并分析总结了施工过程中的技术要点，弥补了类似圆环钢结构施工方法的不足，可为后续同类钢结构工程施工提供参考。

援所罗门群岛2023年太平洋运动会体育场钢结构罩棚采用了树形支撑铸钢节点，为考察其在最不利设计工况下的受力性能，对铸钢节点进行了足尺试验研究和有限元分析。试验结果表明，在1.0倍受拉工况设计荷载及1.6倍受压工况设计荷载作用下，节点处于弹性阶段，卸载后没有明显残余变形。有限元分析结果与试验结果吻合良好，表明有限元分析可以准确模拟节点试件的实际受力状态。铸钢节点的极限承载力在受拉工况下为设计荷载的9.0倍，受压工况下为设计荷载的8.6倍，满足《铸钢节点应用技术规程》（CECS 235：2008）中的相关要求，该铸钢节点具有较高的安全储备。

钢结构模块化建筑是一种新兴的建筑结构体系，由多个标准的模块化单元组成，具有施工速度快、质量可控等优点。然而，目前对于模块化钢结构的研究还不够深入，特别是有关其抗倒塌性能的研究较少。通过有限元分析软件ABAQUS研究了钢结构模块化建筑在单个角模块、2个边模块和4个内模块失效时的抗倒塌性能，包括最终变形模式、荷载-位移曲线和节点内力变化等。同时，研究了墙板厚度对结构抗倒塌承载力及倒塌过程中内力重分布的影响。结果表明：3种模块失效工况下，墙板系统对结构抗倒塌承载力的贡献率均在45%~70%之间；当墙板厚度超过某个临界值后，再增加其厚度对抗倒塌贡献率的影响很小。同时，墙板厚度的增加限制了模块间连接节点拉力的发挥，甚至会导致节点内出现压力。

圆钢管桁架在土木工程和海洋工程领域应用较多，除了承受竖向荷载外，还易遭受冲击偶然荷载作用。以偏心质量下抵抗冲击荷载的钢桁架为研究对象，利用LS-DYNA软件建立了节点冲击有限元模型。从破坏特征、冲击响应和耗能能力等方面研究了其抗冲击能力，对冲击次数、冲击速度和钢材屈服强度进行了参数分析，最后基于有限元模拟结果，提出了主管凹陷变形与转角之间的表达式。结果表明：经历多次摆锤冲击后，主管发生严重的凹陷变形，刚度显著降低；冲击速度达到3.0 m·s-1时，冲击力峰值提高了84.8%，冲击区域支管节点发生挤压弯曲破坏，主管凹陷变形是主要的耗能机制。有限元模拟结果可为提高实际钢桁架的抗冲击性能提供参考。

为了探究特高压重冰区输电塔地线支架在脱冰动力荷载作用下的安全性，基于脱冰数值计算理论，建立了地线的脱冰数值模型和塔线耦合数值模型，研究了地线在不同工况下的脱冰动力响应和不同地线脱冰情况下铁塔地线支架的承载力安全性。脱冰研究表明：地线脱冰时，高差越大，脱冰产生的上拔力越大；档距越大，纵向不平衡张力越大；覆冰越厚，地线脱冰产生的纵向不平衡张力越大，产生的的上拔力越小。塔线耦合脱冰研究表明：多档模型下，地线脱冰时，悬垂直线塔地线支架正面和底部斜材存在应力比超限情况，现有设计方法偏于不安全；耐张塔地线支架不受脱冰动力响应控制。建议重覆冰区地线支架设计时仅考虑地线脱冰产生的上拔力影响，上拔力取地线最大使用张力的1.0%~5.0%，覆冰越厚，上拔荷载可越小，厚度为20 mm、30 mm、40 mm、50 mm、60 mm冰区的上拔荷载分别取为最大使用张力的4.0%~5.0%、3.0%~4.0%、2.5%~3.0%、2.0%~2.5%和1.0%~2.0%。

针对U型钢-混凝土组合梁交叉节点处U型钢腹板传力路径中断、节点受力复杂、现有钢筋过渡节点现场焊接量大的难题，提出了L形连接板传递钢腹板内力的新型节点（LLTC），对节点抗弯性能进行了试验研究。LLTC由套筒、L形连接板和套丝钢筋组成，与焊接钢筋型纵向过渡钢筋（WLTR）传递钢腹板内力的传统梁交叉节点（WLTR-UCJs）相比，LLTC能够有效传递钢腹板内力，且实现了节点的装配式连接。通过四端简支静力试验，研究了WLTR-UCJs和装配连接型U型钢-混凝土组合梁交叉节点（LLTC-UCJs）的抗弯性能，明晰了纵向传力构件形式、WLTR直径、LLTC套丝钢数量和LLTC套丝钢强度等对节点承载能力与变形能力的影响。试验结果表明，WLTR-UCJs的破坏模式为钢腹板屈曲和顶部纵向钢筋屈曲，LLTC-UCJs的破坏模式为U型钢翼缘屈服。与WLTR-UCJs相比，LLTC-UCJs的受压区材料屈曲程度较低，具有更高的承载力和更强的变形能力。

Introduction. Currently, research and development in the field of nanomaterials science is being conducted worldwide. The rationale for developing innovative energy-saving materials based on gypsum binders for buildings and structures with optimized carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions allows us to consider underburnt ash and slag mixtures as a promising technogenic product that allows us to comprehensively solve technological, economic and environmental problems in the construction industry. The study of the possibility of synthesizing promising mineral compositions based on underburnt products isolated from non-recyclable ash and slag mixtures (ASM) of coal-fired power plants ensures the development of a base of design and engineering solutions for buildings and facilities with rational energy consumption and optimized CO2 emissions using gypsum nanomaterials with unique properties. Materials and methods. In the study, technogenic carbon (underburning) was isolated from ash and slag mixtures by flotation enrichment using reagents (flotators). Results and discussions. The results of the study of energy-efficient gypsum composites based on a technogenic carbon modifier confirm its active participation in the processes of structure formation and crystallization of nanostructured building materials with high-tech characteristics. Conclusion. The research results obtained in the field of developing innovative, energy-efficient, cement-free building materials can contribute to an increase in the level of knowledge and the development of innovative approaches in construction materials science. These findings will be useful for subsequent implementation in the construction industry. The research topic is in line with the implementation of state programs, including the Strategy for Scientific and Technological Development of the Russian Federation.

Introduction. Detonation spraying is an effective method for applying high-quality coatings to various materials, widely used in industry to improve wear resistance and corrosion resistance of surfaces. This article examines the influence of key process parameters, such as gun-to-substrate distance and nozzle velocity, on the structure and properties of the resulting coatings. Materials and methods of research. The Ti–TiO2 coatings on hot-rolled carbon steel are studied. The spray distance and the speed of nozzle passage are varied while the rest spraying parameters are fixed. The obtained coatings were studied using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Results and discussion. It is found that the phase composition of the coating changes depending on the detonation spray conditions. The fraction of rutile exceeds the fraction of anatase in the obtained samples except for the samples obtained with the fastest nozzle passage. The rutile fraction monotonically decreases with an increase in the spray distance with fixed values of the rest parameters of spraying process. It is found a nonmonotonic changing the rutile fraction with an increase in the speed of nozzle passage and found its optimal values. Two new theoretical models for the spray process based on differential equations are proposed, the solutions of which sufficiently describe the dependencies of the rutile fraction on the distance and speed of the nozzle, respectively. Conclusion. It has been demonstrated that the theoretical values of the parameters, calculated using the formulated equations, are in good agreement with the experimentally measured values

Introduction. The effect of adhesion additive and nature of filler on fatigue life and interfacial interaction in mastic is analyzed in this paper. Materials and methods of research. Frequency sweep from 0.1 to 100 rad/s at strain 0.05% at temperatures from 30 to –10°С with a step 10°С and cyclic tests (LAS test) at temperatures from 16 to 1°С with a step 3°С for bitumen grade BND 100/130 and mastics based on it, containing fillers of different nature, were performed on the dynamic shear rheometer. Mastics were prepared by mixing bitumen (3 min; 160°С and 600 rpm) and filler (filler volume fraction – 0.275). Adhesion additive in an amount of 0.7%, was introduced into bitumen before the filler to investigate the effect of AD on the properties of bitumen and AB. The damage characteristic curve under cyclic loads was calculated using two models of VECD theory (Viscoelastic Continuum Damage Modeling System): dissipated strain energy and pseudo-strain energy. Results and Discussion. The influence of nature and properties of filler, adhesive additive, temperature and frequency of tests on the parameter of interfacial interaction K-B-G* and thickness of adsorbed layer has been investigated. The intensity of damage in the specimen under cyclic loads and the behavior of fatigue parameters as a function of test temperature at two variants of determining the parameter α have been analyzed. Conclusion. It is shown that an increase in the interfacial layer thickness in asphalt mastic leads to an increase in their resistance to damage accumulation (Damage Intensity) during fatigue testing (LAS), and lowers the rate of pseudo-deformation energy growth.

Introduction. Management analytics is an evolving field that has gained substantial traction in both academia and industry due to its profound impact on decision-making processes. The inte-gration into decision making of advanced information technologies and AI drive innovative solutions within management analytics. Evolution of Management Analytics. The discipline integrates statistical analysis, predictive modeling, and data visualization to optimize business strategies, operational efficiency, and financial performance. As management practices advance, they contribute new dimensions to data collection and analysis, presenting unique opportunities to boost nanotechnologies. Methodological Advances in Management Analytics. This study explores the transformative effects of management analytics across diverse sectors by illustrating its evolution and interpreting its methodologies with special focus on nanotechnologies. Applications in Different Sectors. Management analytics significantly enhances decision-making through sophisticated data analysis, offering strategic insights that propel efficiency and competitiveness. The use of management analytics in nanotechnologies raises questions regarding ethical implications and regulatory considerations. Challenges and Future Directions. However, integration complexities, data security, and the need for skilled personnel pose ongoing challenges. Conclusion. This review provides insights into the potentials of the development of management analytics and its importance in contemporary management.

Introduction. The production of plasticizing additives using nanoparticles for the construction industry represents a promising sector in the development of advanced building materials. By incorporating nanoparticles, such as silicon dioxide, into complex additives, it is possible to significantly enhance the structural and mechanical characteristics of cement-based systems, resulting in increased strength, durability, and resistance to external forces. This study aims to investigate the process of synthesizing silicon dioxide nanoparticles in aqueous media and creating a complex organic-mineral additive comprising phloroglucinol- furfural oligomers with silicon dioxide nanoparticles. Materials and methods of research. A modifier based on phloroglucinol-furfural oligomers was used as an organic component of the complex additive. To synthesize silicon dioxide nanoparticles, which are the mineral component of the additive, liquid glass (sodium silicate solution) was used. Additionally, Aerosil, with a specific surface area of 2,000 m3 /kg, was used as the dispersed phase in the organic mineral additive to study the compatibility of the components and the mechanism of their interaction. The particle and size distribution were determined using laser light diffraction on the Malvern Mastersizer 3000 device and dynamic light scattering on the Microtrac S3500 device. Microscopic analysis of the complex additive was performed on a TESCAN MIRA 3 LMU scanning electron microscope. The chemical structure and composition of the obtained additive were monitored by UV and IR spectrophotometry on Specord 200 Plus and Alpha Bruker Optics devices, respectively. Results and discussion. The article presents the results of the development of a method for the synthesis of silicon dioxide nanoparticles and creating an organic-mineral additive based on phloroglucinol-furfural oligomers containing these nanoparticles. The additive is designed for use in mineral suspensions in construction additive technologies. It has been shown that it is possible to obtain nanoscale particles of silicon dioxide through the hydrolysis of sodium silicate. It has been demonstrated that as the concentration of sodium silicate increases, the number of silica particles increases significantly, the number of silicon dioxide particles increases significantly. This leads to faster coagulation of the particles, resulting in the formation of larger aggregates. It has been shown that silicon dioxide particles smaller than 10 nm can be obtained through acid titration. During the maturation period, particles increase in size by about 7 times over a period of 1 to 7 days. The optimal ratio for particle synthesis should be considered to be a 2:1 ratio of reagent solutions (sodium silicate to hydrochloric acid) by volume. It is shown that the introduction of the specific additive at the stage of particle formation can help to stabilize their growth. Conclusion. The complex organic-mineral additive based on a phloroglucinol-furfural oligomer and silicon dioxide nanoparticles has been developed. It has been established that the introduction of the specific additive in the process of synthesis of silicon dioxide particles contributes to an increase in the aggregate stability of the dispersed system of the complex additive, reduces the tendency of particles to enlargement and sedimentation

Introduction. Today, a detailed study of the geological structure of oil and gas fields is essential. The study and understanding of the geological structure can be achieved through the analysis of geological heterogeneity. This has a significant impact on the degree of involvement of the reservoir volume in the drainage process, determines the dominant directions of filtration flows and the nature of oil displacement in the process of formation flooding. Methods and materials. The paper presents statistical indicators of the main reservoir characteristics – porosity, permeability, dissection, sandiness, as well as complex indicators of macro- and microheterogeneity in permeability distribution. The given characteristics allow estimating the variability of the reservoir, both by area and by section, i.e. in the volume of the oil-and-gas bearing reservoir. Results. This paper highlights the results of a comprehensive analysis of the micro- and macroheterogeneity of the studied object and a comparison of the identified zones with production data on well operation. The purpose of the study is to develop, using the example of studying the UV1 formation, an algorithm for selecting geological and technological measures, including the use of horizontal well drilling with aphron-containing drilling muds, based on identifying geological and industrial causes of premature water cut in the extracted products, and determining the geological factors that control the distribution of residual hydrocarbon reserves. Determining the causes of premature water cut will help not only to eliminate premature water cut, but also to carry out work to prevent it. Conclusion. The established causes of premature well water cuttings as a result of the analysis will allow to determine promising areas for optimizing the development system – revision of the well grid, drilling of new horizontal production and injection wells, changing operating modes, using flow-diverting technologies, etc. Establishing the directions of fluid movement using heterogeneity analysis helps to determine the sources of water that prematurely enters the well (bottom or injected waters).

Introduction. The use of bitumen microdispersed emulsion as a resource-saving method for road surface construction is a popular trend in the development of innovative nanostructures. The technological use of petroleum bitumen as a binder for road materials requires a reduction in rheological viscosity. This can be achieved through synergistic developments that involve the use of various additives and modifiers. Methods and materials. The composition of bitumen microheterogeneous emulsions includes: bitumen-containing raw materials (up to 70–80% of mass); water with hardness up to 6 mg-eq/l (from 20 to 30%); emulsifiers (up to 3%) and other components. For large-tonnage production of water- bitumen emulsions, a colloid mill is the most technologically advanced equipment. Results. Water-bitumen emulsions are formed as a result of two competing processes: crushing (dispersion) and coalescence (merging) of microdroplets of the bitumen dispersed phase. The microheterogeneous bitumen phase is distributed in the aqueous dispersion medium in the form of microdroplets ranging in size from 1 to 10 μm (the main share is made up of bitumen microdroplets with a diameter of 2–4.5 μm). The synergetic durable microstructure of asphalt concrete road surfaces, which is formed by supplementing interaction in the boundary layers of the bitumen binder with the surface of the mineral component, is determined by the dominant interaction of complementary factors. Discussion. The synergetic approach to extending the service life of asphalt concrete road surfaces by using bitumen microdispersed emulsions holds promise for interpreting their evolution. The road construction industry of the Russian Federation at the beginning of the 21st century is characterized by a large-scale revision of regulatory documents, regulating the requirements for the construction and operation of highways. Conclusion. The optimal solution to the current problems of intensive construction and reconstruction of Russian highways is the improvement of technological characteristics of road surfaces by adding bitumen microdispersed emulsions to the composition. In complementary strengthening of weak soils of the road surface of high-speed highways, the use of water-bitumen microdispersed emulsions is also recommended.

Abstract In current timber structures, the low initial stiffness, and weak bending resistance of the connections result in significant structural deformation and failures. To improve the mechanical capabilities of timber structural joints, a novel timber-component anchorage system with robust bending resistance was introduced. Thirteen scaled-down specimens of glulam columns with anchored connections were meticulously fabricated for testing, scaled at a ratio of 1/2. Cyclic loading tests were conducted, considering three types of the volume compression percentage of confined wood perpendicular to the grain; and five axial-load levels. Subsequently, various seismic performance aspects of glulam columns with anchored connections were examined, including the failure mode, hysteresis behavior, envelope curve, strength degradation, stiffness degradation, energy dissipation capacity, and critical points. During the analysis, the influence of the P–Δ effect on the results was discussed and a damage-based hysteretic model was presented. Finally, a comparison of the mechanical performance for various types of timber structural joints was conducted. The findings revealed that the failure mode of the anchored glulam columns occurred as cracking perpendicular to the grain, and the anchored columns exhibited superior bending resistance and overall seismic performance.

Abstract The fiber index including fiber length, width, wall thickness and lumen diameter of Ferrocalamus strictus culms (1, 2, and ≥ 3 years) from Jinping, Mojiang and Lvchun counties of Yunnan Province was determined and the elemental content of the soil was also determined to analyze the fiber characteristics. The average relative fiber index measured for F. strictus culms were fiber length (1.30 mm), width (21.57 μm), slenderness ratio (60.79 μm), wall thickness (4.21 μm), lumen diameter (7.22 μm), and runkel ratio (1.22 μm), which belonged to the range of middle and long fibers. The fiber length increased with the culm age. The proportion of long fiber increased while short fibers decreased along with culm maturing. The fiber morphology did not show a specific trend with the culm height. Fiber length reached the maximum in the bottom portions of the culms. There is a correlation between fiber morphology and soil elements, the content of organic matter, total potassium, total sulfur, total aluminum, total zinc, total iron, total boron, alkali-hydrolyzed nitrogen and available silicon in the soil affects fiber morphology. The content of organic matter, total boron and alkali-hydrolyzed nitrogen in the soil from Mojiang County was largest. Comparatively, the culm fiber in Mojiang County had the best fiber index performance for utilization, since the greatest proportion of medium and long fibers and the optimal distribution of fiber length frequency was obtained from the culms in Mojiang County. This study can provide a theoretical basis for large-scale bamboo forest cultivation and the development and utilization of bamboo culm fiber.

Policy interventions can effectively promote the public’s low-carbon behaviors (LCBs), provided the public already understands and perceives the policy. The extent to which the public gets to know the policy is easily overlooked in relevant studies. Based on a survey conducted in Hangzhou, China, this paper compares the residents’ satisfaction with the policies promoting LCBs. Furthermore, the impact of different levels of policy satisfaction on the willingness to engage in LCBs with place attachment as a mediator is also investigated. The results show that respondents’ policy satisfaction is moderately high, with female respondents (3.479) slightly higher than males (3.430). The policy satisfaction, from high to low, is administrative regulations (3.515), technical interventions (3.463), information tools (3.457), and economic incentives (3.384). Policy satisfaction has a significant effect on willingness to engage in LCBs and place attachment, and place attachment has a positive effect on willingness to engage in LCBs. Place attachment plays a partial mediating role in the influence path of policy satisfaction on the willingness of LCBs. The study provides insights for policymakers on enhancing policy dissemination and engagement, particularly in the context of gender differences, and offers a comprehensive view of the dynamics driving sustainable behavior change in urban China.

Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a major concern at daycare centers, due to the weaker immune system of children. Although IAQ is typically measured in accordance with the ISO-16000 standard, environmental sensors have recently become widely used due to their ability to consistently monitor air quality at a lower cost. In this study, We installed IoT sensors indoors and outdoors at ten daycare centers to measure PM(PM2.5, PM10), CO2, temperature, and humidity, as well as window opening-closing sensors to identify ventilation behavior. Indoor PM concentrations were consistently lower than outdoor levels, increasing from 7:00 AM, peaking between 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM, and decreasing during nap time (12:00 PM to 2:00 PM). CO2 levels were generally higher indoors than outdoors, peaking at 2:00 PM before decreasing. Windows were opened more frequently at 7:00 AM, 8:30 AM, and 3:00 PM. The correlation analysis revealed that significant factors influencing CO2 concentration were window opening duration. Ventilation rates per person at the daycare centers ranged from 1.77 to 10.69 m3/h, below both Korean and ASHRAE guidelines. The results of this study can provide valuable insights for developing strategies to improve indoor air quality in daycare centers that depend on window ventilation.

From the perspective of the evolution of the concept of health, the purpose of mental health is to achieve better living conditions, higher adaptability and development level, and also the best combination of physical and mental well-being and social well-being. According to the literature, the region and privacy of office interior design, the comfort and convenience of office furniture, the charm of office environment and individuation all have an impact on the mental health of office workers. Interactive interior design based on virtual reality can improve the office environment, thus improving the work efficiency and productivity of employees. A comfortable office environment has a positive impact on physical factors for office workers, which is beneficial for improving their mental health. This paper aimed to study how to analyze and study the impact of interactive interior design based on virtual reality (VR) on the emotional and psychological health of office workers. In this paper, the impact of VR interior design was evaluated by fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method, and the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) was used to quantify the weight. In the experiment part of this paper, through the analysis of the questionnaire of the office workers in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, and the comparison of the experimental data, it can be known that before the experiment, the control group and the experimental group were both very healthy, and after the experiment, the psychological health of the two groups was very healthy, which was 0 and 4 people. It can be seen that the psychological health of the workers in the experimental group has changed significantly. This paper studied the influence of VR interaction design on worker’s emotion from the experimental point of view and proved its influence on employee’s emotion from the empirical point of view, which had certain reference significance for future research.

Prefabricated construction is a promising global technology for reducing carbon emissions (CEs) in the construction sector. This study aims to identify critical factors affecting the life cycle of prefabricated buildings, understand their interrelationships, and develop targeted carbon reduction measures. A mixed-methods approach is employed, incorporating bibliometric analysis to identify key factors and the Delphi method to refine these factors through iterative surveys with diverse stakeholders. A 24-member scoring panel and a 3-member review panel consisting of experienced corporate practitioners were selected for the study. The DEMATEL-ISM approach was utilized to analyze causal and hierarchical relationships, revealing both direct and indirect impacts on CEs. The findings indicate that factors such as energy efficiency and behavior change significantly affect CEs in prefabricated buildings. The study categorizes 15 key factors, including energy efficiency, environmental properties, behavioral change, and water and solid waste management. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of building design, energy-saving awareness and habits, and policies and regulations in reducing carbon emissions in prefabricated construction. These insights are valuable for advancing sustainable building research, analyzing stakeholder attitudes, and informing engineering project studies.

The attention of residents has always been drawn to the courtyard gates of rural residential buildings, this is the basis for evaluating the first impression of the countryside by first-time visitors. Using eye-tracking technology, this study measures the pupil diameter, fixation duration, and fixation point of subjects as objective physiological data, Then combined with the results of the subjective satisfaction questionnaire for a comprehensive analysis. The findings showed that, When the subjects evaluated their satisfaction with the courtyard gates, the proportion and color of the modeling elements led to the subjects’ emotional changes, and the subjects focused mainly on the central axis and the connection of various structures with raised areas. In order to elicit positive emotions in the subjects, village gate designs should therefore adhere to the standard specification’s requirements as well as the following: the width of the gate should be 0.8 times the height, the height should be 5 times the width of the gateposts, and the color should match the material’s color. To meet the emotional needs of the visitors, the final design strategy of the proportion and color of rural courtyard gates in southern Hebei Province is proposed.

Walking to school may provide a regular source of daily physical activity and help to reduce the prevalence of obesity, but walking has been on the decline for decades globally; this is particularly true in Saudi Arabia, especially with the major increase in auto-dependency. This cross-sectional study of students aged 6–18 from 57 schools collected 1218 responses to examine the potential associations between the built environment and walking to school in a sprawled city, namely Najran city, Saudi Arabia. Binomial logistic regression was used to highlight important built environment predictors of walking to school. The results showed that across all participating schools, the average proportion of students walking to school was 19%. Also, the findings of the study further revealed that several built environment attributes were associated with walking to school. Walking to school was positively associated with signalized intersections, distance to the central business district (CBD), increased commercial land use, the precence of a parking lot in front of the school and denser areas within the school neighborhood. However, walking to school is also negatively associated with commuting distance, the presence of industrial use, and the presence of hilly streets in school neighborhood. No significant correlations were found between walking to school and the population density of the individual student’s home neighborhood or the number of intersections, parks, streets, and speed bumps in the school neighborhood. Overall, the findings of this study can be used to guide and support the development of new policies to improve pedestrian infrastructure and establish new, smaller schools within some neighborhoods to increase active and safe commuting to schools in Najran city, Saudi Arabia.

This paper explores a previously unrecorded style of East-West architectural ornamentation in Tengchong, Yunnan Province, China, overlooked in historical architectural studies. The aim of this research is to both document and analyze this unique blend of Eastern and Western architectural elements, employing both qualitative and quantitative methods. Initially, literary research identifies relevant sites, which are subsequently examined through field research to collect firsthand data on the local architectural decorations that exhibit this East-West synthesis. Employing an interdisciplinary approach that integrates concepts from biology and statistics, the study views these architectural decorations as a living organism. This perspective allows for a detailed examination of how different cultural elements are incorporated into local architecture, analyzed quantitatively and statistically. Through this research, a qualitative description of these hybrid architectural elements is developed, further enriched by a quantitative analysis based on statistical methods. The qualitative aspect of the study traces the historical evolution of this East-West architectural form, observing changes in themes and structures. In terms of quantitative findings, a detailed statistical profile of these local architectural features is established, which supports the qualitative insights. Overall, this research sheds light on a neglected aspect of architectural ornamentation, presenting a thorough analysis of its development and current state through an innovative mix of qualitative and quantitative research techniques. This study not only provides new data but also opens up fresh avenues for future research on similar topics.

In 2011, UNESCO issued recommendations urging cities, especially those rich in historical significance, to strike a balance between preservation and growth. The goal was to better cater to the needs of present-day residents and improve their quality of life through a focus on people-centered development. This study examines informal settlements along the Mae Kha Canal in Chiang Mai, a locality adjacent to the city’s historical elements. The present study aims to formulate strategies for upgrading housing, examining the case of Kampaeng Ngam as a pilot community. The investigation is aligned with the city’s current agenda, aiming to gather insights from inhabitants for future improvement. A field study began with structured observation, followed by an investigation of sample housing and in-depth interviews with the householders. The results are presented in three facets: (1) current physical existence, (2) resident background, and (3) dwelling characteristics of the community. The influence of resident-related aspects on housing attributes is then discussed. The findings reveal that previous plans by local authorities to relocate households into one-size-fits-all family housing failed to meet the diverse living conditions of the residents. Consequently, this article concludes with alternative suggestions for the upcoming Kampaeng Ngam Housing Upgrade project.

Compared with those in other Chinese provinces, the villages in Hunan and Jiangxi are characterized by complex clan networks. Our purpose was to elucidate the complexity and hierarchical changes in the evolution of clan-organized settlement patterns and the spatial fractal structure of traditional villages. Box-counting dimension analysis, which is based on fractal theory, was used to evaluate the evolution of four villages in Hunan and Jiangxi, China. Our findings indicated that (1) both single-clan and multiclan villages exhibit a spatial fractal pattern; (2) the fractal dimension of individual buildings is greater than that of building groups and the village as a whole; and (3) the self-similarity fractal dimension is greater for single-clan villages than for multiclan villages. These findings establish a connection between the restoration needs of traditional villages and the potential application of the self-similarity principle. They support a hierarchical approach to conservation, beginning with individual architectural units to preserve the villages’ original authenticity. Moreover, the observed fractal differentiation revealed the fundamental clan-cultural logic underlying traditional village spaces. This logic elucidates the potential of leveraging each village’s unique clan culture to counteract the homogenization of village space development, thereby revitalizing the grassroots dynamics of village spatial development.

The renewal of urban industrial heritage brings many benefits, meanwhile facing challenges, and there is a lack of in-depth and specific case study analysis. Based on spatial production theory, this paper takes an iconic project as an example to explore its construction process and reveal the spatial and social changes it triggers. This case study investigates the changes in physical and social spaces resulting from the shift in the subjects of spatial production. By analyzing document data, spatial data, and field data, the following key findings and conclusions are obtained: 1) Capital led the regeneration process, transformed decaying factory buildings into consumer space, and activated the economic vitality of the area. 2) The construction of the physical space changed the spatial layout, structure and function that attracted the creative community and young visitors, changing daily lives of the space users. 3) However, the neglect of industrial culture and participation of nearby residents are obvious challenges. The results indicate that using spatial production as a theoretical analysis framework helps us fully understand the challenges faced in the renewal of urban industrial heritage projects. This study can provide a reference for small-scale urban heritage renewal projects, facilitating accurate decision-making.

Heritage usually represents how the past is valued today. This paper, however, introduces a new perspective based on historical materialism, which is evident in modern Asian architecture. It argues that contemporary Asian architecture moves away from traditional historicism and embraces different ways of relating to history. The paper explores the idea of “living heritage”, which is shaped by the postcolonial nature of current Asian architecture and urban planning. The core idea is that immediate historicity, the presence of appreciated historical values, creates a unique quality called “display-ness”. This concept involves not just physical, visual, and spatial aspects, but also how a place is institutionalised. As evidence, modern heritage is influenced by global political dynamics. In Asia, the quality of architecture has shifted from modernism to what might be called colonial modernity, showing a new focus on hybridity. By comparing Japan and Singapore, this paper illustrates this idea of display-ness, which suggests a blend of future urban developments and cultural history in the present.

The implementation of smart city policies is a time-consuming process. Although policy managers are constantly monitoring and improving policy implementation, exploring the phased impact of smart city policies on cities’ development is crucial for enhancing policy implementation in the subsequent phase. However, few studies have comprehensively analyzed the stage-specific implications of smart city policies on the sustainable urban development of China’s smart cities. Therefore, this study utilized multiple regression analysis to examine the correlation between 10 indicators and Smart City Scores by investigating changes in the urban development of 118 Chinese cities from 2013 to 2020. The results show that: (a) Smart city policies have impacted cities differently over the years. (b) Smart cities significantly improve per capita income, services, mobile communication, and urban density, thereby shedding light on the potential benefits of smart city policies. (c) State-led smart city policies significantly impact cities’ sustainable urban growth and development. This study highlights the crucial role of aligning the policies of the national and local governments. This alignment is necessary for formulating urban development plans geared toward the establishment of smart cities.

This study investigates the impact of deep excavation on ground settlement under various adjacent building conditions using the finite element method. It simulates diaphragm wall earth retention systems with plate elements and uses H-beam assemblies with preloaded anchors to represent temporary earth retention and ensure safety measures. Adjacent structures are also modeled with plate elements. Unlike traditional methods that often overestimate settlement by simulating only ground loads, this research includes the effects of neighboring basements and validates the model using field data. The study employs the HSS model, which provides a more accurate representation of soil deformation compared to the Mohr-Coulomb model. Findings indicate that ground settlement significantly increases when the adjacent building’s basement depth is about half the excavation depth, stabilizing as it approaches 1.6 times the excavation depth. Settlement is more pronounced for buildings closer to the diaphragm wall and decreases with distance. The relationships are described by normalized curves, and y = 1.9x−0.4 and 2.5/√x, representing the behavior of ground settlement in response to varying building conditions.

Architecture embodies symbolic meanings evolving across shifting socio-political landscapes. This paper investigates the multivalent transformations of Singapore’s iconic colonial landmark – the Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall (VTCH). Tracing VTCH’s metamorphosing roles, functions, and identities through historical ruptures like British rule, Japanese occupation, decolonization, and nation-building, it illuminates how the complex underwent profound changes. The analysis underscores how regimes continually reimagined this architectural palimpsest to forge national narratives, consolidate collective memories, and materialize power relations. VTCH’s transition from colonial edifice to a symbolically imbued site mirrors the intricate interplay between built environments and Singapore’s spatial politics. Once symbols of colonial dominance, the buildings later embodied sovereign nationhood and nostalgic roots. Notably, VTCH recently assumed new roles driving cultural tourism and economic growth. Through a diachronic interrogation of this singular icon, the paper elucidates broader dialectics between decolonization, nation-building, and the semiotics of heritage in (re)constructing collective identities. It offers insights into how societies redefine spatial legacies to serve evolving ideological imperatives and identity discourses. Integrating the micro-architectural and macro-national enriches understandings of the mutually constitutive relationships between the built environment, political authority and national consciousness.

This study explores the historical context and evolution of evacuation area policies in Tokyo and Seoul, established during the Japanese colonial era, and examines their post-liberation utilization. While both cities aimed to protect against bombing by establishing evacuation areas, they differed significantly in establishment, layout, and location due to varying urban structures. Tokyo’s air defense zones encircled the outskirts, with evacuation zones situated along main roads, while Gyeongseong focused on core zones. Post-liberation, Japan swiftly converted evacuation areas into roads and green spaces, whereas Seoul’s plans were hindered by the Korean War. Discussions about converting evacuation area began in 1959 and eventually focused on roads rather than parks.

To address the homogenisation of rural water use brought about by the popularity of water appliances, this study attempted to find a solution in the spatial and behavioural correspondence and fitness of environment on water use practice in Hakka settlements, habitats for immigrants. Studies on settlements have focused on landscape features, heritage conservation, and life behaviour. Water use has been analysed based on its relationship and comparison with space composition. Traffic-related studies have detailed planning practices, system functions, and history evolution. Unlike previous studies, this study combines the perspectives of architectural planning and environmental adaptability to examine linkages among riverbanks, drainages, and water use patterns in Futang Village and elucidated 3 of 11 hakka settlements’ adaptive use of streams, wells, and tianjing (courtyards) before piped water is available. Satellite map depictions, field surveys, and chi-square distributions showed that upstream and downstream settlements had distinct yet flexible water use behaviours, depending on their access to clean water bodies and sewage areas, concerns about the distance to water sources to perform household chores, and weather conditions. This demonstrates the practical value of adapting to fluvial landforms for developing water facilities and restoring water use activities.

Urban planning plays an important role in the formation of urban space and microclimate. As a middle-level planning in the Chinese urban planning system, regulatory planning has a direct impact on the shaping of 3D urban space and can maximize the operability of urban planning. However, 3D space formation is not considered in the present preparation of regulatory plans, which leads to a misunderstanding of possibly formed 3D landscapes and microclimatic effects after the plan implementation. To support 3D visualization and quantitative analysis of the urban heat island effect (UHI) for regulatory planning, this study proposes a rule-based 3D modeling method to efficiently generate 3D models. The main elements of 3D models (terrain, building, road, vegetation, and land parcel) and their content were determined after analyzing the characteristics of 3D models in the regulatory plan. The 3D modeling process was constructed and combined with an UHI evaluation model through CGA programming. An index called heat island potential (HIP) was used as the UHI evaluation index and can be quantified using the correlation equations between planning indicators and HIP. The proposed method can support the planners to generate 3D models for a planning proposal, and simultaneously analyze 3D spatial effect and UHI.

The current paper proposes a seismic reinforcement method that uses a double frame and is called the Double Frame Method (DFM). Performance tests are conducted to assess the material suitability of a post-installed anchor that directly connects the existing frame to the double frame, while a shear performance test is conducted to examine the vertical connector. The performance of column members with and without DFM reinforcement was compared and evaluated. Ultimately, we have fabricated a two-story, one-span reinforced concrete existing frame test specimen and a DFM reinforced frame test specimen that we can use to examine the effect of improving seismic performance through repeated loading tests. The result of the anchor’s pull-out test show that the average tensile strength is 27.9 kN, exceeding the average design strength of 21.7 kN suggested by the manufacturer. The shear strength test results of the anchor show an average value of 28.7 kN. Meanwhile, the vertical connector test show that the internal force per anchor is 46.83 kN, which is approximately 163% more than the single anchor design shear strength of 28.7 kN. As a result of the DFM-reinforced column test, in the actuator direction, the yield strength is improved by about 120%, while the maximum strength is improved by about 150–180%. As a result of the two-story frame experiment, the double frame reinforced specimen shows a maximum strength of about 4.0 to 4.5 times that of the non-seismic specimen.

The objective of this paper is to investigate the effects of spatial variability in coastal silty soil properties on the stability and failure probability of deep excavation. A super-large irregularly shaped deep excavation in the coastal area in Wenzhou, China, is considered. A numerical model is established based on the random field theory, finite difference method and Monte-Carlo simulation method. Focusing on the friction angle and cohesion, the effects of horizontal and vertical correlation distances and variation coefficients on excavation stability are systematically studied. Meanwhile, the reliability evaluation approach is also applied to systematically examine the impact of the correlation distance on the surface settlement and horizontal displacement of pile. The results show that the greater correlation distance leads to a larger dispersion degree of the ground settlement curve and the displacement curve of the diaphragm wall around. The influence of the horizontal correlation distance on land settlement is more significant. The horizontal and vertical displacements of the pile top are less affected by the correlation distance. Compared with the deterministic analysis, the random analysis results considering the soil spatial variability produce larger displacement.

Smart heritage, an emerging and sustainable paradigm, utilises technology to conserve and enhance cultural heritage. Despite integration into smart city development, full implementation remains unrealised. Consequently, this study aims to investigate the status and trends of smart heritage research, explore the development direction of smart heritage, bridge existing knowledge gaps, and guide its integration into smart city development. This study employs a bibliometric analysis method, supported by machine algorithms, to obtain scientific and quantifiable results. The study utilises the bibliometric analysis software CiteSpace 6.2R6 to analyze 981 articles from the Web of Science Core Collection, covering 1994 to 2024. We observe a notable increase in scholarly output over time, especially in smart cities and digital cultural strategies, where smart heritage has emerged as a research hotspot across various disciplines and domains. Smart heritage crosses three stages: digital technology application, technology integration, and multidisciplinary integration, showcasing diverse technological applications, service scenarios, and application domains. Moving forward, we must prioritize a comprehensive research agenda, including theoretical constructs, smart cultural infrastructure, robust policy, public engagement, and expanded application realms. Additionally, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration between international entities and driving technological innovation is vital for promoting the sustainable development of cultural heritage.

Magnetorheological elastomer (MRE) materials are commonly used as vibration dampers in offshore structures. Therefore, it is urgent to investigate the degradation of this smart material because of seawater interaction. This work focuses on the immersion of MRE material in seawater, which alters its rheological and mechanical characteristics. Hence, it is important to investigate the impact of seawater immersion on the rheological characteristics of substances. This study contributes to the assessment of the stiffness and damping characteristics of MRE materials after exposure to seawater for one year. The MRE samples comprise MRE with a silicone matrix devoid of any Carbonyl Iron Particle (CIP) and MRE with 70% CIP, exhibiting both isotropic and anisotropic properties. Immersing the subject in seawater was carried out for one year. The study involved doing multiple tests, such as scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and rheological testing. The findings indicated that the samples underwent harm, erosion, and deterioration of their rheological characteristics during immersion. The stiffness values for isotropic MRE and anisotropic MRE decreased by 97% and 11%, respectively. Meanwhile, the deterioration of the damping characteristics values of isotropic MRE and anisotropic MRE was 96% and 14%, respectively.

Unique natural conditions and socio-cultural backgrounds influenced the evolution of island dwellings, a type of dwellings in China. Over time, the influence of socio-cultural factors, particularly on architectural functions, has gradually become prominent. This study takes Tongshan Ancient City in Dongshan County, Fujian Province, as an example to study the changes in function and socio-cultural factors, and clarify this mechanism. It investigates 52 dwellings, and summarizes the evolution of architectural functions. By analyzing two clues of changes, this study determined three main socio-cultural factors with the most influence: transformation of industrial structure, change of personnel composition, and continuity of religious beliefs.

Abstract Cell death plays an important role in the determination of secondary xylem cell functions. Tracheary elements (TEs), such as vessel elements and tracheids, lose their organelles due to rapid autolysis after the completion of secondary wall thickening and lignification, and play an important role in water movement along the stem. In contrast, xylem axial and ray parenchyma cells (xylem parenchyma cells) remain alive for several years or longer and retain their organelles even after maturation. As a result, xylem parenchyma cells play important roles in nutrient storage, axial and radial transportation of materials, and defense responses in the stem. In addition, they are involved in the formation of heartwood, which contributes to increases in the resistance of the tree trunk to decay, as they synthesize heartwood components such as polyphenols prior to their death. The present review focuses on changes in long-lived ray parenchyma cells during heartwood formation, such as morphology and contents of organelles, gene expression, and survival rate in sapwood. This review also summarizes the differences in cell death characteristics between TEs and ray parenchyma cells. The elucidation of the cell death mechanism of ray parenchyma cells is expected to provide useful information for controlling the properties of heartwood.

Abstract Wood-decay fungi produce extracellular enzymes that metabolize wood components such as cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin. Each fungus has a preference of wood species as the host, but identification of these preferences requires a huge amount of cultivation data. Here, we developed a method of predicting the wood species preference, Angiosperm specialist or Gymnosperm specialist or generalist, of wood-decay fungi using the random forest machine-learning algorithm, trained on the numbers of families associated with host specialization in the Carbohydrate-Active enZymes database. The accuracy of the prediction was about 80%, which is lower than that of the classification of white- and brown-rot fungi (more than 98%) by the same method, but the reason for this may be the ambiguity of the definition of “preference” and “generalists”. Carbohydrate esterase (CE) family 1 acetylxylan esterase was the most significant contributor to the prediction of host specialization, followed by family 1 carbohydrate-binding module and CE family 15, mainly containing glucuronoyl esterases. These results suggest that the ability to degrade glucuronoacetylxylan, a major hemicellulose of Angiosperm, is the key factor determining the host specialization of wood-decay fungi.

Abstract A vibration test to measure the mass of a specimen without weighing it using the difference between the resonance frequency with an additional mass and that without it (vibration method with additional mass, VAM) was applied to Japanese cedar flat square lumber with dimensions of 210 mm × 135 mm × 3000 mm both with and without a pith in the process of air-drying. The longitudinal and bending vibration tests were performed on the specimens with and without an additional mass. The accuracy of VAM that was expressed by the estimated mass by VAM to the measured mass (M VAM/M 0) was sufficiently high throughout the air-drying process. The accuracy of VAM for the longitudinal vibration was higher than that for the bending vibration. The moisture content based on the estimated mass by VAM was in the expected range.