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24 pages, 4912 KB  
Article
Numerical Simulation and Prediction of Flexure Performance of PSC Girders with Long-Term Prestress Loss
by Jun-Hee Won, Woo-Ri Kwon and Jang-Ho Jay Kim
Materials 2025, 18(20), 4654; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18204654 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025
Abstract
The purpose of this parametric study was to develop a numerical simulation model calibrated with experimental data to predict the flexural behavior of prestressed concrete (PSC) girders subjected to long-term prestress losses. The model is capable of accurately simulating the flexural behavior of [...] Read more.
The purpose of this parametric study was to develop a numerical simulation model calibrated with experimental data to predict the flexural behavior of prestressed concrete (PSC) girders subjected to long-term prestress losses. The model is capable of accurately simulating the flexural behavior of PSC girders using commercial finite-element (FE) software in the ABAQUS/Explicit program. The accuracy of the model was validated by comparing its results with flexural response test data from three post-tensioned girders, with the tendons ultimately having tensile strength capacities of 1860 MPa, 2160 MPa, and 2400 MPa. The comparison demonstrated generally excellent agreement between numerical and experimental results in terms of the load–deflection response and crack propagation behavior, from the onset of first cracking through the maximum load and into the ductile response range. Subsequently, a parametric study was conducted to evaluate the effects of tendon ultimate strength, amount of long-term prestress loss, grouting defects, degradation-induced reductions in concrete strength, and reductions in tendon cross-sectional area on girder flexural behavior. Through this parametric investigation, the study identified key factors with respect to long-term prestress loss that may influence the flexural behavior of aging PSC structures. Full article
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25 pages, 2321 KB  
Review
The Role of Renalase in Cardiovascular Disease: A Comprehensive Review of Its Molecular Biology, Genetic Associations, and Clinical Significance
by Siarhei A. Dabravolski, Andrey V. Omelchenko, Elizaveta R. Korchagina, Olga N. Maltseva, Vsevolod V. Pavshintsev and Tatiana I. Kovyanova
Life 2025, 15(10), 1581; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15101581 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025
Abstract
Renalase, a flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD)-dependent enzyme/hormone, has emerged as a molecule of significant interest in cardiovascular medicine since its discovery nearly two decades ago. Initially proposed as a catecholamine-degrading enzyme crucial for blood pressure regulation, its functional repertoire has expanded to include [...] Read more.
Renalase, a flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD)-dependent enzyme/hormone, has emerged as a molecule of significant interest in cardiovascular medicine since its discovery nearly two decades ago. Initially proposed as a catecholamine-degrading enzyme crucial for blood pressure regulation, its functional repertoire has expanded to include potential α-NAD(P)H oxidase/anomerase activity and roles as a signalling cytokine. This review synthesises the current understanding of renalase, encompassing its fundamental biology, intricate gene regulation by transcriptional factors, microRNAs, and physiological stimuli, and its implications in cardiovascular health and disease. A central focus is the critical appraisal of circulating renalase as a clinical biomarker. We critically evaluate findings from preclinical animal and cellular models related to atherosclerosis, heart failure, and blood pressure control. Furthermore, this review examines the extensive literature on RNLS gene polymorphisms and their associations with human cardiovascular phenotypes, alongside the complex and often context-dependent data regarding circulating renalase levels as a potential clinical biomarker in conditions such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, and heart failure. While renalase shows context-specific promise, its multifaceted biology and the current methodological disparities limit its immediate clinical application. This review concludes by outlining a clear path forward, emphasising the need for standardised research and mechanistic studies to unlock the true diagnostic and therapeutic potential of renalase in CVD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Physiology and Pathology)
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50 pages, 1967 KB  
Review
Biofilm and Outer Membrane Vesicle Formation in ESKAPE Gram-Negative Bacteria: A Comprehensive Review
by Giedrė Valdonė Sakalauskienė and Aurelija Radzevičienė
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(20), 9857; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26209857 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global threat, exacerbated by the adaptive mechanisms of Gram-negative ESKAPE pathogens, which include biofilm formation and outer membrane vesicle (OMV) production. Biofilms create robust protective barriers that shield bacterial communities from immune responses and antibiotic treatments, while [...] Read more.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global threat, exacerbated by the adaptive mechanisms of Gram-negative ESKAPE pathogens, which include biofilm formation and outer membrane vesicle (OMV) production. Biofilms create robust protective barriers that shield bacterial communities from immune responses and antibiotic treatments, while OMVs contribute to both defense and offense by carrying antibiotic-degrading enzymes and delivering virulence factors to host cells. These mechanisms not only enhance bacterial survival but also increase the virulence and persistence of infections, making them a significant concern in clinical settings. This review explores the molecular processes that drive biofilm and OMV formation, emphasizing their critical roles in the development of AMR. By understanding these mechanisms, new therapeutic strategies can be developed to disrupt these defenses, potentially improving the efficacy of existing antibiotics and slowing the spread of resistance. Additionally, the use of OMVs in vaccine development and drug delivery offers promising avenues for future research. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach, combining advanced research with innovative therapies to combat the escalating threat of AMR and improve patient outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanisms in Biofilm Formation, Tolerance and Control: 2nd Edition)
25 pages, 4876 KB  
Article
Factors Influencing Plant Community Structure and Composition of Restored Tamaulipan Thornscrub Forests
by Jerald T. Garrett, Audrey J. Hicks and Christopher A. Gabler
Forests 2025, 16(10), 1561; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16101561 - 10 Oct 2025
Abstract
The Lower Rio Grande Valley (LRGV) of Texas is a biodiversity hotspot due to its high alpha, beta, and gamma diversity and high regional endemism, which are at high risk of degradation. The region has lost 95% of its native thornforest habitat primarily [...] Read more.
The Lower Rio Grande Valley (LRGV) of Texas is a biodiversity hotspot due to its high alpha, beta, and gamma diversity and high regional endemism, which are at high risk of degradation. The region has lost 95% of its native thornforest habitat primarily due to agricultural and urban expansion. This study aims to evaluate the current vegetative structure and composition of restored thornforest sites located in the LRGV to identify restoration methods and site characteristics that affect forest restoration outcomes. Twelve restored thornforest sites were selected for this study that varied in time since restoration, patch size, degree of isolation, and method of restoration. Canopy, understory, and ground layer vegetation were evaluated at six survey points per restored site (n = 72), and 17 environmental variables were incorporated into univariate and multivariate analyses to identify factors influencing restored plant communities. Actively restored sites showed higher overall richness, abundance, and diversity than passively restored sites. More isolated patches had higher overall richness, abundance, and diversity, and longer times since restoration began increased richness and diversity. Higher abundances of Urochloa maxima, an invasive grass, altered community composition and reduced diversity in each forest layer and overall and reduced richness in the canopy and ground layers. Important considerations for thornforest restoration in the LRGV should include invasive grass prevalence; proximity to riparian and seasonal wetland habitats; landscape factors that influence water availability; and patch geography, including shape, size, and proximity to other forest patches. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Ecology and Management)
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22 pages, 3537 KB  
Article
Enhanced Treatment of Swine Farm Wastewater Using an O3/Fe2+/H2O2 Process: Optimization and Performance Evaluation via Response Surface Methodology
by Hang Yu, Kexin Tang, Jingqi Li, Linxi Dong, Zuo Tong How, Dongming Wu and Rui Qin
Separations 2025, 12(10), 277; https://doi.org/10.3390/separations12100277 - 10 Oct 2025
Abstract
Biologically treated swine farm wastewater still contains high levels of refractory organics, humic substances and antibiotic residues, posing environmental risks and limiting opportunities for water reuse. Wastewater treatment by ozonation alone suffers from low mass transfer efficiency and selective oxidation. To overcome these [...] Read more.
Biologically treated swine farm wastewater still contains high levels of refractory organics, humic substances and antibiotic residues, posing environmental risks and limiting opportunities for water reuse. Wastewater treatment by ozonation alone suffers from low mass transfer efficiency and selective oxidation. To overcome these limitations, a catalytic ozonation process (O3/Fe2+/H2O2) was applied and optimized using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) based on single-factor experiments and Central Composite Design (CCD) for advanced swine farm wastewater treatment. The optimal conditions ([O3] = 25.0 mg/L, [Fe2+] = 25.9 mg/L, [H2O2] = 41.1 mg/L) achieved a COD removal of 44.3%, which was 86.8% higher than that of ozonation alone, and increased TOC removal to 29.5%, indicating effective mineralization. Biodegradability (BOD5/COD) of swine farm wastewater effluent increased from 0.01 to 0.34 after the catalytic ozonation treatment. Humic-like and fulvic-like substances were removed by 93.7% and 95.4%, respectively, and antibiotic degradation was significantly accelerated and enhanced. The synergistic process improved ozone utilization efficiency by 33.1% and removed 53.95% of total phosphorus through Fe3+-mediated coprecipitation. These findings demonstrate that with catalytic ozone decomposition and production of hydroxyl radicals, the O3/Fe2+/H2O2 system effectively integrates enhanced ozone utilization efficiency, radical synergy, and simultaneous pollutant removal, providing a cost-effective and technically feasible strategy for advanced swine farm wastewater treatment and safe reuse. Full article
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20 pages, 8941 KB  
Article
Transient Stability Enhancement of a PMSG-Based System by Saturated Current Angle Control
by Huan Li, Tongpeng Mu, Yufei Zhang, Duhai Wu, Yujun Li and Zhengchun Du
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(20), 10861; https://doi.org/10.3390/app152010861 - 10 Oct 2025
Abstract
This paper investigates the transient stability of Grid-Forming (GFM) Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator (PMSG) systems during grid faults. An analysis demonstrates how a fixed saturated current angle can trap the system in undesirable operating points, while reactive power coupling can degrade performance. Both [...] Read more.
This paper investigates the transient stability of Grid-Forming (GFM) Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator (PMSG) systems during grid faults. An analysis demonstrates how a fixed saturated current angle can trap the system in undesirable operating points, while reactive power coupling can degrade performance. Both factors pose a risk of turbine overspeed and instability. To overcome these vulnerabilities, a dual-mechanism control strategy is proposed, featuring an adaptive saturated current angle control that, unlike conventional fixed-angle methods, which risk creating Current Limiting Control (CLC) equilibrium points, dynamically aligns the current vector with the grid voltage to guarantee a stable post-fault trajectory. The effectiveness of the proposed strategy is validated through time-domain simulations in MATLAB/Simulink. The results show that the proposed control not only prevents overspeed trip failures seen in conventional methods but also reduces post-fault recovery time by over 60% and significantly improves system damping, ensuring robust fault ride-through and enhancing overall system stability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Applied Physics General)
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28 pages, 4553 KB  
Article
Insights of Nanostructured Ferberite as Photocatalyst, Growth Mechanism and Photodegradation Under H2O2-Assisted Sunlight
by Andarair Gomes dos Santos, Yassine Elaadssi, Virginie Chevallier, Christine Leroux, Andre Luis Lopes-Moriyama and Madjid Arab
Molecules 2025, 30(19), 4026; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30194026 - 9 Oct 2025
Abstract
In this study, nanostructured ferberites (FeWO4) were synthesized via hydrothermal routes in an acidic medium. It was then investigated as an efficient photocatalyst for degrading organic dye molecules, with methylene blue (MB) as a model pollutant. The formation mechanism of ferberite [...] Read more.
In this study, nanostructured ferberites (FeWO4) were synthesized via hydrothermal routes in an acidic medium. It was then investigated as an efficient photocatalyst for degrading organic dye molecules, with methylene blue (MB) as a model pollutant. The formation mechanism of ferberite revealed that the physical form of the precursor, FeSO4·7H2O, acts as a decisive factor in morphological evolution. Depending on whether it is in a solid or dilute solution form, two distinct nanostructures are produced: nanoplatelets and self-organized microspheres. Both structures are composed of stoichiometric FeWO4 (Fe: 49%, W: 51%) in a single monoclinic phase (space group P2/c:1) with high purity and crystallinity. The p-type semiconductor behavior was confirmed using Mott–Schottky model and the optical analysis, resulting in small band gap energies (≈1.7 eV) favoring visible absorption light. Photocatalytic tests under simulated solar irradiation revealed rapid and efficient degradation in less than 10 min under near-industrial conditions (pH 5). This was achieved using only a ferberite catalyst and a low concentration of H2O2 (4 mM) without additives, dopants, or artificial light sources. Advanced studies based on photocurrent measurements, trapping and stability tests were carried out to identify the main reactive species involved in the photocatalytic process and better understanding of photodegradation mechanisms. These results demonstrate the potential of nanostructured FeWO4 as a sustainable and effective photocatalyst for water purification applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Heterogeneous Catalysis—2nd Edition)
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14 pages, 1462 KB  
Article
Regulation of PD-L1 Protein Expression by the E3 Ubiquitin Ligase GP78
by Madhumita Chatterjee, Julio M. Pimentel, Jun-Ying Zhou, Thamarahansi Mugunamalwaththa, Zhe Yang, Avraham Raz and Gen Sheng Wu
Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(10), 829; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47100829 (registering DOI) - 9 Oct 2025
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), including PD-L1 inhibitors, have been approved by the FDA for the treatment of cancers; however, only a small number of cancer patients benefit from these ICIs. Furthermore, the development of drug resistance to this type of treatment is often [...] Read more.
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), including PD-L1 inhibitors, have been approved by the FDA for the treatment of cancers; however, only a small number of cancer patients benefit from these ICIs. Furthermore, the development of drug resistance to this type of treatment is often inevitable. The mechanisms of resistance to PD-L1 inhibitors can be attributed, in part, to an incomplete understanding of the regulation of PD-L1 protein expression. In this study, we identified the role of the E3 ligase GP78, also known as the Autocrine Motility Factor Receptor (AMFR), in the regulation of PD-L1 protein levels. We show that GP78 physically interacts with PD-L1, which is confirmed by IP and Western blotting and is supported by molecular modelling using AlphaFold2. Our modeling studies predict that the interface amino acids of the Ig1 domain of PD-L1 interact with the RING domain and a β-hairpin preceding the CUE domain of GP78. The crystal structure of the PD-1/PD-L1 complex reveals that the interaction with PD-1 is mediated by the Ig1 domain of PD-L1. Furthermore, proteasomal degradation of PD-L1 has been observed via GP78-mediated K48-linked ubiquitination, indicating a key regulatory role for GP78 in the downregulation of PD-L1. Because GP78 expression is inversely correlated with PD-L1 levels in cancer, these findings may have clinical implications for predicting tumor immune evasion and patient response to PD-1/PD-L1 blockade therapies. Taken together, these findings identify a previously unknown mechanism by which GP78 targets PD-L1 for ubiquitination and subsequent degradation in cancer cells, and suggest that blocking the interaction between PD-L1 and PD-1 by an E3 ligase is a novel strategy to improve immunotherapies for cancer patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Medicine)
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19 pages, 11019 KB  
Article
Preparation and Enhanced Catalytic Performance of a Polyhedral BiVO4-Nanoparticle-Modified ZnO Flower-like Nanorod Structure Composite Material
by Yuanyuan Lv, Neng Li, Jin Liu, Quanhui Liu, Xueqi Hui and Qiang Li
Nanomaterials 2025, 15(19), 1536; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15191536 - 9 Oct 2025
Abstract
Organic pollutants pose a significant threat to both the ecological environment and human health. In this study, BiVO4@ZnO heterojunction composites were synthesized via a two-step hydrothermal method. The incorporation of polyhedral BiVO4 onto the flower-like structure of ZnO effectively enhanced [...] Read more.
Organic pollutants pose a significant threat to both the ecological environment and human health. In this study, BiVO4@ZnO heterojunction composites were synthesized via a two-step hydrothermal method. The incorporation of polyhedral BiVO4 onto the flower-like structure of ZnO effectively enhanced the photocatalytic performance of the composite. Compared with ZnO flower-like nanorods, the BiVO4@ZnO heterojunction composite photocatalysts achieved degradation efficiencies of 93.18% (k = 0.09063) and 89.64% (k = 0.007661) for methylene blue (MB) within 30 min under ultraviolet and visible light irradiation, respectively. The photocatalytic activity of the BiVO4@ZnO composites was also evaluated against various organic dyes, including rhodamine B (RhB), Congo red (CR), methyl orange (MO), and methylene blue (MB). Under ultraviolet light, the catalysts showed particularly high activity toward MB and CR. The enhanced photocatalytic performance can be attributed to two main factors: firstly, the heterojunction facilitates the separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs, thereby improving photocatalytic efficiency; secondly, the composite exhibits a broadened and enhanced light absorption range. Furthermore, the BiVO4@ZnO heterojunction composites demonstrate excellent cyclic catalytic stability and structural integrity. This study offers a clean and efficient strategy for the photocatalytic degradation of aqueous organic pollutants. Full article
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28 pages, 1420 KB  
Article
Climate, Crops, and Communities: Modeling the Environmental Stressors Driving Food Supply Chain Insecurity
by Manu Sharma, Sudhanshu Joshi, Priyanka Gupta and Tanuja Joshi
Earth 2025, 6(4), 121; https://doi.org/10.3390/earth6040121 - 9 Oct 2025
Abstract
As climate variability intensifies, its impacts are increasingly visible through disrupted agricultural systems and rising food insecurity, especially in climate-sensitive regions. This study explores the complex relationships between environmental stressors, such as rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and soil degradation, with food insecurity outcomes [...] Read more.
As climate variability intensifies, its impacts are increasingly visible through disrupted agricultural systems and rising food insecurity, especially in climate-sensitive regions. This study explores the complex relationships between environmental stressors, such as rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and soil degradation, with food insecurity outcomes in selected districts of Uttarakhand, India. Using the Fuzzy DEMATEL method, this study analyzes 19 stressors affecting the food supply chain and identifies the nine most influential factors. An Environmental Stressor Index (ESI) is constructed, integrating climatic, hydrological, and land-use dimensions. The ESI is applied to three districts—Rudraprayag, Udham Singh Nagar, and Almora—to assess their vulnerability. The results suggest that Rudraprayag faces high exposure to climate extremes (heatwaves, floods, and droughts) but benefits from a relatively stronger infrastructure. Udham Singh Nagar exhibits the highest overall vulnerability, driven by water stress, air pollution, and salinity, whereas Almora remains relatively less exposed, apart from moderate drought and connectivity stress. Simulations based on RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 scenarios indicate increasing stress across all regions, with Udham Singh Nagar consistently identified as the most vulnerable. Rudraprayag experiences increased stress under the RCP 8.5 scenario, while Almora is the least vulnerable, though still at risk from drought and pest outbreaks. By incorporating crop yield models into the ESI framework, this study advances a systems-level tool for assessing agricultural vulnerability to climate change. This research holds global relevance, as food supply chains in climate-sensitive regions such as Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America face similar compound stressors. Its novelty lies in integrating a Fuzzy DEMATEL-based Environmental Stressor Index with crop yield modeling. The findings highlight the urgent need for climate-informed food system planning and policies that integrate environmental and social vulnerabilities. Full article
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31 pages, 4494 KB  
Review
Designing the Next Generation: A Physical Chemistry Approach to Surface Coating Materials
by Maria Pastrafidou, Vassilios Binas and Ioannis A. Kartsonakis
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(19), 10817; https://doi.org/10.3390/app151910817 - 8 Oct 2025
Abstract
Surface coating materials have many applications in various sectors, such as aerospace, medical technology, packaging, and construction, due to their unique properties, including self-healing, corrosion resistance, and protection from external factors. Their use not only enhances the durability and lifespan of surfaces but [...] Read more.
Surface coating materials have many applications in various sectors, such as aerospace, medical technology, packaging, and construction, due to their unique properties, including self-healing, corrosion resistance, and protection from external factors. Their use not only enhances the durability and lifespan of surfaces but also their functionality and esthetic value. These coatings can be effective barriers against moisture, oxygen, chemicals, and the growth of microorganisms, which makes them indispensable in industries where reliability and safety are paramount. In the aerospace sector, they provide protection at extreme temperatures and limit component wear. Special coatings in biomedicine improve implant compatibility and prevent bacterial adhesion. In packaging, they extend the shelf life of products, while in construction they prevent the degradation of structural elements. This review article examines the major categories of these materials, as well as their advantages and limitations, and demonstrates a comparative evaluation of their use in certain applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Organic Corrosion Inhibitors and Protective Coatings)
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18 pages, 7245 KB  
Article
Simulation Study of the Effect of Multi-Angle ATI-SAR on Sea Surface Current Retrieval Accuracy
by Jiabao Chen, Xiangying Miao, Yong Wan, Jiahui Zhang and Hongli Miao
Remote Sens. 2025, 17(19), 3383; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17193383 - 8 Oct 2025
Abstract
This study investigates the effects of multi-angle along-track interferometric synthetic aperture radar (ATI-SAR) observations on the accuracy of sea surface current retrieval. Utilizing a high-fidelity, full-link SAR ocean simulator, this study systematically assesses the influence of three key factors—the angle between observation directions, [...] Read more.
This study investigates the effects of multi-angle along-track interferometric synthetic aperture radar (ATI-SAR) observations on the accuracy of sea surface current retrieval. Utilizing a high-fidelity, full-link SAR ocean simulator, this study systematically assesses the influence of three key factors—the angle between observation directions, the relative orientation of wind and current, and wind speed—on the precision of two-dimensional (2D) current vector retrievals. Results demonstrate that observation geometry is a dominant factor: retrieval errors are minimized when the two viewing directions are near-orthogonal (~90°), while near-parallel (0° or 180°) geometries result in significant error amplification. Furthermore, the angle between wind and current introduces complex, non-linear error characteristics, with a perpendicular alignment minimizing velocity error but maximizing direction error. Higher wind speeds are found to degrade both velocity and direction retrieval accuracy. Collectively, these findings provide crucial quantitative guidance for optimizing the mission design, observation planning, and algorithm development for future multi-angle ATI-SAR satellite constellations dedicated to ocean current monitoring. Full article
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24 pages, 7420 KB  
Article
Horizontal Vibration of the Coupled Rope–Car–Rail System in High-Speed Elevators Under Building Sway Excitation
by Wen Wang, Jiang Qian, Yunyang Wang and Benkun Tan
Buildings 2025, 15(19), 3608; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15193608 - 8 Oct 2025
Abstract
Horizontal vibrations in high-speed elevators induced by building sway degrade ride comfort and compromise operational safety. Developing an accurate and robust dynamic model is essential for effective vibration control. To address this, this study develops a comprehensive dynamic model of the coupled traction [...] Read more.
Horizontal vibrations in high-speed elevators induced by building sway degrade ride comfort and compromise operational safety. Developing an accurate and robust dynamic model is essential for effective vibration control. To address this, this study develops a comprehensive dynamic model of the coupled traction rope–car–guide shoe–guide rail system under multi-support excitations, incorporating nonlinear contact between the guide shoe and rail, guide rail vibration characteristics, and the time-varying length of traction rope. Using this model, the dynamic responses of the system under stationary and operating conditions are analyzed in detail. The results demonstrate that the proposed model accurately captures the dynamic behavior of the coupled system. In addition, the traction rope’s dynamics are a dominant factor in the system’s response, particularly when the elevator is stationary at a landing, producing a resonant condition with the building sway. Furthermore, a strong coupling between vertical motion and horizontal vibration is identified, which significantly amplifies the system response. By linking elevator dynamics with the sway characteristics of high-rise buildings, this work provides a robust analytical framework for predicting the dynamic response of high-speed elevators due to building sway and contributes to the safety assessment of high-rise reinforced concrete (RC) structures. Full article
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18 pages, 1349 KB  
Article
Enzymatic Spirulina Extract Enhances the Vasodilation in Aorta and Mesenteric Arteries of Aged Rats
by Michal S. Majewski, Mercedes Klett-Mingo, Carlos M. Verdasco-Martín, Cristina Otero and Mercedes Ferrer
Mar. Drugs 2025, 23(10), 395; https://doi.org/10.3390/md23100395 - 8 Oct 2025
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Abstract
Aging, one of the main factors associated with cardiovascular diseases, induces vascular modifications through nitric oxide (NO) release and oxidative stress. Based on the antioxidant properties of the non-enzymatic spirulina extract (non-Enz-Spir-E) and that degrading enzymes enhances the extract bioactivity, the aim of [...] Read more.
Aging, one of the main factors associated with cardiovascular diseases, induces vascular modifications through nitric oxide (NO) release and oxidative stress. Based on the antioxidant properties of the non-enzymatic spirulina extract (non-Enz-Spir-E) and that degrading enzymes enhances the extract bioactivity, the aim of this study was to analyze the in vitro effect of an Alcalase-assisted Enz-Spir-E on the vasodilator function of conduit and resistance arteries (which differently contribute to blood pressure regulation) in aging. Therefore, thoracic aorta (TA) and mesenteric arteries (MA) from male Sprague–Dawley rats (20–22 months-old) were divided into two groups: non-incubated vessels and vessels exposed to Enz-Spir-E (0.1% w/v) for 3 h. The vasodilation to acetylcholine (ACh), sodium nitroprusside (SNP, a NO donor), carbon-monoxide-releasing molecule (CORM), and cromakalim (a potassium channel opener), as well as NO and superoxide anion production, were studied. Enz-Spir-E increased the ACh-, SNP-, and CORM-induced responses in both types of arteries, while the cromalakim-induced relaxation was increased only in MA. Enz-Spir-E increased NO release (TA: 5.69-fold; MA: 1.79-fold), while it reduced superoxide anion formation (TA: 0.52-fold; MA: 0.66-fold). These results indicate that Enz-Spir-E improves aging-associated vasodilation through increasing NO release/bioavailability in both types of arteries and hyperpolarizing mechanisms only in MA. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Antioxidants 2025)
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30 pages, 10955 KB  
Article
Experimental Study on the Anti-Erosion of the Exterior Walls of Ancient Rammed-Earth Houses in Yangjiatang Village, Lishui
by Yujun Zheng, Junxin Song, Xiaohan Zhang, Yake Hu, Ruihang Chen and Shuai Yang
Coatings 2025, 15(10), 1173; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15101173 - 7 Oct 2025
Viewed by 86
Abstract
Yangjiatang Village traces its origins to the late Ming and early Qing dynasties. It has evolved over more than 400 years of history. There are 78 rammed-earth buildings left, making it one of the most complete and largest rammed-earth building complexes in East [...] Read more.
Yangjiatang Village traces its origins to the late Ming and early Qing dynasties. It has evolved over more than 400 years of history. There are 78 rammed-earth buildings left, making it one of the most complete and largest rammed-earth building complexes in East China. This study investigated the traditional rammed-earth houses in Yangjiatang Village, Songyang County, Zhejiang Province. By combining field investigation, microscopic characterization, and experimental simulation, we systematically revealed the erosion resistance of rammed earth in a subtropical humid climate was systematically revealed. Using a combination of advanced techniques including drone aerial photography, X-ray diffraction (XRD), microbial community analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and soil leaching simulations, we systematically revealed the anti-erosion mechanisms of rammed-earth surfaces in Yangjiatang Village. The study found that (1) rammed-earth walls are primarily composed of Quartz, Mullite, lepidocrocite, and Nontronite, with quartz and lepidocrocite being the dominant minerals across all orientations. (2) Regulating the community structure of specific functional microorganisms enhanced the erosion resistance of rammed-earth buildings. (3) The surface degradation of rammed-earth walls is mainly caused by four factors: structural cracks, surface erosion, biological erosion and roof damage. These factors work together to cause surface cracking and peeling (depth up to 3–5 cm). (4) This study indicates that the microbial communities in rammed-earth building walls show significant differences in various orientations. Microorganisms play a dual role in the preservation and deterioration of rammed-earth buildings: they can slow down weathering by forming protective biofilms or accelerating erosion through acid production. Full article
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