Construction Of Architectures Research Articles

Pore-Specific Anisotropic Etching of Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks by Carboxylic Acid Vapors.

Anisotropic etching is a powerful way to customize metal-organic frameworks with advanced nanostructures, but it is still in its infancy. Herein, we proposed an unprecedented etching strategy that created anisotropic hollow structures in various zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF) nano/single crystals via pore-specific carving. The etching occurred through a newly discovered gas-solid reaction where carboxylic acid vapors bind with ligands in ZIFs at room temperature to form ionic liquid (IL). A series of experiments were conducted to decode the origin of anisotropy and the "hollowing out" effect. We found that large pore openings on {111} facets provide access for the entry of carboxylic acid vapors and the outflow of the IL, resulting in pore-dependent anisotropy features. The unique "etching after adsorption" mechanism and the adsorption capacity of the IL enable acid vapors to hollow out nanocrystals and even single crystals. By altering carboxylic acids and ligands in ZIFs, the etching process can be precisely tuned from the inside out or the outside in. This new method demonstrates broad universality and brings unprecedented morphologies and complexities. It may offer great opportunities for achieving purposeful modification of ZIFs and the rational construction of intricate architectures.

Natural Fiber-Reinforced Mycelium Composite for Innovative and Sustainable Construction Materials

Fiber-reinforced mycelium (FRM) composites offer an innovative and sustainable approach to construction materials for architectural structures. Mycelium, the root structure of fungi, can be combined with various natural fibers (NF) to create a strong and lightweight material with environmental benefits. Incorporating NF like hemp, jute, or bamboo into the mycelium matrix enhances mechanical properties. This combination results in a composite that boasts enhanced strength, flexibility, and durability. Natural FRM composites offer sustainability through the utilization of agricultural waste, reducing the carbon footprint compared to conventional construction materials. Additionally, the lightweight yet strong nature of the resulting material makes it versatile for various construction applications, while its inherent insulation properties contribute to improved energy efficiency in buildings. Developing and adopting natural FRM composites showcases a promising step towards sustainable and eco-friendly construction materials. Ongoing research and collaboration between scientists, engineers, and the construction industry will likely lead to further improvements and expanded applications. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the current research and applications of natural FRM composites for innovative and sustainable construction materials. Additionally, the paper reviews the mechanical properties and potential impacts of these natural FRM composites in the context of sustainable architectural construction practices. Recently, the applicability of mycelium-based materials has extended beyond their original domains of biology and mycology to architecture.

Radical-Chain Hydrosilylationof Alkenes Enabled by Triplet Energy Transfer.

Development of mild, robust and metal-free catalytic approach for the hydrosilylation of alkenes is critical to the advancement of modern organosilicon chemistry given their powerful capacity in the construction of various C-Si bonds. Herein, we wish to disclose a visible light-triggered organophotocatalytic strategy, which proceeds via a triplet energy transfer (EnT)-enabled radical chain pathway. Notably, this redox-neutral protocol is capable of accommodating a broad spectrum of electron-deficient and -rich alkenes with excellent functional group compatibility. Electron-deficient alkenes are more reactive and the reaction could be finished within a couple of minutes even in PBS solution with extremely low concentration, which suggests its click-like potential in organic synthesis. The preparative power of the transformations has been further highlighted in a number of complex settings, including the late-stage functionalization and scale-up experiments. Furthermore, although only highly reactive (TMS)3SiH is suitable hydrosilane substrate, our studies revealed the great reactivity and versatility of (TMS)3Si- group in diverse C-Si and Si-Si bond cleavage-based transformations, enabling the rapid introduction of diverse functional groups and the facile construction of valuable quaternary silicon architectures.

Dual Strategy of Morphology Optimization and Interlayer Expansion in VS2 Cathode Toward High-Performance Mg-Li Hybrid Ion Batteries.

Combining the merits of the dendrite-free formation of a Mg anode and the fast kinetics of Li ions, the Mg-Li hybrid ion batteries (MLIBs) are considered an ideal energy storage system. However, the lack of advanced cathode materials limits their further practical application. Herein, we report a dual strategy of morphology optimization and interlayer expansion for the construction of hierarchical flower-like VS2 architecture coated by N-doped amorphous carbon layers. This tailored hierarchical flower-like structure coupled with homogeneous N-doped amorphous carbon layers cooperatively provide more active sites and buffer volume changes, thus realizing the enhancement of capacity and structural stability. Moreover, the enlarged interlayer spacing caused by the cointercalation of polyvinylpyrrolidone and ammonium ions can effectively promote the charge transfer rate and facilitate the rapid ion diffusion, as further demonstrated by electrochemical results and theoretical calculations. These features endow the hierarchical flower-like VS2 cathode with superior specific energy density (644.4 Wh kg-1, average voltage of 1.2 V vs Mg2+/Mg) and excellent rate capability (181.1 mAh g-1 at 2000 mA g-1). Systematic ex situ characterization measurements are employed to reveal the ion storage mechanism, which confirms that Li+ storage plays a leading role in the capacity contribution of MLIBs. Our strategy is in favor of providing useful insights to design and construct MLIBs with high energy density and excellent rate performance.

Photochemical dearomative skeletal modifications of heteroaromatics.

Dearomatization has emerged as a powerful tool for rapid construction of 3D molecular architectures from simple, abundant, and planar (hetero)arenes. The field has evolved beyond simple dearomatization driven by new synthetic technology development. With the renaissance of photocatalysis and expansion of the activation mode, the last few years have witnessed impressive developments in innovative photochemical dearomatization methodologies, enabling skeletal modifications of dearomatized structures. They offer truly efficient and useful tools for facile construction of highly complex structures, which are viable for natural product synthesis and drug discovery. In this review, we aim to provide a mechanistically insightful overview on these innovations based on the degree of skeletal alteration, categorized into dearomative functionalization and skeletal editing, and to highlight their synthetic utilities.

Brick by brick: illuminating the cognitive landscape of the past through sensory archaeology

ABSTRACT This contribution explores the use of sensory archaeology and neuroarchitecture in the study of the earthen built environment. First, the paper discusses multi-sensory experiences focusing on earth as a building material. Second, I look at the archaeological remains of building materials to consider the sensory perception of earthen architecture manufacturers in the Eastern Mediterranean during the Bronze Age. In this latter endeavour I draw on Material Engagement Theory (MET), archaeological earthen remains, and ethnoarchaeological data to investigate the sensory aspects of working with earthen building materials. The main goal is to understand interactions between brain, mind, and culture by studying how people contributed to the manufacturing and construction of earthen architecture. While archaeology is quite visual, I argue that material culture, specifically the production of earthen architecture, shaped a multi-layered sensory experience that included all senses, rather than just visual stimulation.

Energy Consumption at Accommodation Buildings: A Case Study of a Boutique Hotel-Abdera

Global environmental problems such as decreasing biodiversity, natural disasters, climate change, and energy consumption are among the main concerns of the countries. Approximately 50% of the energy consumed worldwide is spent on architectural construction, use, and operation. The increase in energy consumption in buildings especially has taken the reduction of carbon footprint and the importance of energy efficiency to the fore. Physical environment, climate, orientation, envelope, and material properties are among the different factors in determining energy consumption in buildings. The share of tourism activities in total emissions is estimated to be 5%. However, it is also stated that tourism buildings have a share of 21 % of C02 emissions. This work aimed to research the energy consumption of a boutique hotel in Abdera, Greece. ArchiCAD, Graphisoft, and EcoDesigner software were used in the analysis of findings, and suggestions were put forward. Energy consumption and environmental effects were investigated when active solar systems (Solar Thermal Panel /STP (30 m2), Photovoltaic Panel/PV (30 m2)) were added to the roof surface (total 60 m2 Panel) of the building. The analysis showed that the addition of active solar systems by 30% could reduce emissions. In Greece, which is located in a very favorable region in terms of geographical features, it is very important to use solar potential with integrated systems in buildings to provide energy needs.

A novel bio-inspired design method for porous structures: Variable-periodic Voronoi tessellation

This paper introduces a novel approach, namely Variable-Periodic Voronoi Tessellation (VPVT), for the bio-inspired design of porous structures. The method utilizes distributed points defined by a variable-periodic function to generate Voronoi tessellation patterns, aligning with a wide diversity of artificial or natural cellular structures. In this VPVT design method, the truss-based architecture can be fully characterized by design variables, such as frequency factors, thickness factors. This approach enables the optimal design of porous structures for both mechanical performance and functionality. The varied, anisotropic cell shapes and sizes of VPVT porous structures provide significantly greater design flexibility compared to typical isotropic porous structures. In addition, the VPVT method not only can design micro-macro multiscale materials, but is also applicable for the design of meso-macro scale truss-based porous structures, such as architecture constructions, biomedical implants, and aircraft frameworks. This work employs a Surrogate-assisted Differential Evolution (SaDE) method to perform the optimization process. Numerical examples and experiments validate that the proposed design achieves about 51.1% and 47.8% improvement in compliance performance and damage strength, respectively, than existing studies.

Transforming architecture: The synergy of digital fabrication and parametric design

This paper delves into the transformative synergy between digital fabrication and parametric design in the field of architecture, tracing their evolution, principles, and integration that herald a new era of architectural innovation. Digital fabrication, with its roots in the mid-20th century, has evolved from basic CNC machinery to advanced 3D printing and robotic assembly, enabling a shift from mass production to mass customization. Parametric design, through its algorithmic nature, allows for the manipulation of complex geometries based on set parameters, facilitating designs that adapt to environmental data for enhanced sustainability. The integration of these two methodologies has fostered a powerful design-to-production workflow, enabling architects to materialize complex designs with unprecedented precision and efficiency. Highlighted through cutting-edge techniques and notable case studies, this paper provides a comprehensive overview of the current landscape and potential future directions of architectural practices shaped by these technologies. It underscores the significant efficiency gains, structural optimization, and innovation potential that this integration offers, backed by quantitative analysis and mathematical modeling. This exploration not only emphasizes the shift towards more sustainable, efficient, and innovative architectural solutions but also reflects on the broader implications for the future of architectural design and construction.

A facile synthesis of α,β-unsaturated imines via palladium-catalyzed dehydrogenation

The dehydrogenation adjacent to an electron-withdrawing group provides an efficient access to α,β-unsaturated compounds that serving as versatile synthons in organic chemistry. However, the α,β-desaturation of aliphatic imines has hitherto proven to be challenging due to easy hydrolysis and preferential dimerization. Herein, by employing a pre-fluorination and palladium-catalyzed dehydrogenation reaction sequence, the abundant simple aliphatic amides are amendable to the rapid construction of complex molecular architectures to produce α,β-unsaturated imines. Mechanistic investigations reveal a Pd(0)/Pd(II) catalytic cycle involving oxidative H–F elimination of N-fluoroamide followed by a smooth α,β-desaturation of the in-situ generated aliphatic imine intermediate. This protocol exhibits excellent functional group tolerance, and even the carbonyl groups are compatible without any competing dehydrogenation, allowing for late-stage functionalization of complex bioactive molecules. The synthetic utility of this transformation has been further demonstrated by a diversity-oriented derivatization and a concise formal synthesis of (±)-alloyohimbane.

Information management and optimization methods in architectural construction drawings: A case study of the "Coconut forest settlement" in Hainan

This paper investigates information management and optimization methods within architectural construction drawings, using the Coconut Forest Settlement project in Hainan as a case study. Five key categories of methods are explored: clarification, structuring, standardization, precision, and lightweight. These methods address issues such as the lack of case-based analysis, the need for better information management, and the reduction of information redundancy. By classifying and discussing these strategies, the study highlights the enduring relevance of construction drawings in the digital age. Furthermore, it envisions the transferability of these methods to different contexts due to their emphasis on logical commonalities and the ever-present need for efficient information management. Practical examples from other fields, such as Revit, Rhino, and Grasshopper, are cited to demonstrate the potential applicability of these methods beyond traditional construction drawings. This paper contributes to the enhancement of information management in architectural design, fostering innovation and improved efficiency across various applications.

Synthesis of Bodipy-Tagged Galactoconjugates and Evaluation of Their Antibacterial Properties.

As a development of our research on biocompatible glycoconjugate probes and specifically multi-chromophoric systems, herein, we report the synthesis and early bactericidal tests of two luminescent glycoconjugates whose basic structure is characterized by two boron dipyrromethene difluoride (BODIPY) moieties and three galactoside rings mounted on an oligophenylene ethynylene (OPE) skeleton. BODIPY fluorophores have found widespread application in many branches of biology in the last few decades. In particular, molecular platforms showing two different BODIPY groups have unique photophysical behavior useful in fluorescence imaging. Construction of the complex architecture of the new probes is accomplished through a convergent route that exploits a series of copper-free Heck-Cassar-Sonogashira cross-couplings. The great emergency due to the proliferation of bacterial infections, in conjunction with growing antibiotic resistance, requires the production of new multifunctional drugs and efficient methods for their targeted delivery to control bacteria-associated diseases. Preliminary studies of the glycoconjugate properties as antibacterial agents against representatives of Gram-negative (P. aeruginosa) and Gram-positive (S. aureus) pathogens, which are associated with chronic infections, indicated significant bactericidal activity ascribable to their structural features.

The Geometric Construction of Hexagonal Apses in Mediaeval Hungary

Geometric construction in Gothic architecture has been a popular subject of research for centuries. The use and extent of quadrature and triangulation grids has long been debated, as the few architectural drawings that survived from the era do not indicate the construction process. Modern surveying methods, however, allow us to inspect the exact geometry of a building with all its irregularities – in the case of this article we use 3D point clouds created by laser scanning, from which accurate measurements can be taken.In our study we analyse four churches from mediaeval Hungary: the Franciscan church of Szeged-Alsóváros, the fortified church of Cincu (RO, Nagysink/Großschenk), the Franciscan church of GyöngyösAlsóváros and the fortified church of Mediaș (RO, Medgyes/Mediasch). Each of these are built with elon-gated choirs and approximately hexagonal apses. We explore the possible construction systems of these buildings and compare them to each other. We aim to present the similarities and differences between them and to offer likely explanations of their irregularities. Moreover, we propose the significance of construction circles used for creating a triangulation grid.

Exploring channel length effects in 2D MoS2-Based memtransistors and their Synaptic behavior

Memtransistors, combining the functionalities of memristors and transistors, signify a substantial advancement with potential applications in areas such as neuromorphic learning and the integration of processing and memory units in current computers. Particularly, memtransistors fabricated using 2D materials have received extensive research attention due to their memory capabilities, energy efficiency, and features enabling compact integration. In this study, we examined the utilization of MoS2 monolayers grown by chemical vapor deposition (CVD), inherently imbued with defects, as memtransistors. Our focus probed into the exploration of how the change in channel length within this imperfect architectural construct exerts influences on the hysteresis loop and hence the operation of the device. In this respect, increasing the gate voltage enhanced the distinction between high and low resistance states and lengthening the channel led to a decrease in the differentiation between resistance states. Despite the shrinkage in hysteresis loop width, the memristive characteristics were preserved even at low gate voltages. Shortening the channel length widened the gap between low and high resistance states but disrupted the loop symmetry. Interestingly, relatively long channel memtransistors exhibited a more symmetrical and closer-to-ideal hysteresis. Experiments in different environments highlighted the impact of photocurrent. We applied consecutive pulses, resulting in an increase in the baseline of the current graph. Short-lived changes in the memtransistors resistance suggested its potential to simulate the short-term potentiation property of synapses. Our study on CVD grown 2D material-based memtransistors provides insights into the potential of using such defected materials in memtransistors wide usage and demonstrating their ability to emulate synaptic behavior.

A Re-Examination of Earthquakes in Mediterranean Archaeology in Light of Historical Sources

Interest in earthquakes in Mediterranean archaeology has distinct disciplinary origins. Since the inception of archaeoseismology—earthquake archaeology—in the 1980s, approaches to earthquake factors have been characterized by reliance on ancient historical sources. However, although texts have supported the identification of earthquake disasters in material destruction, documentary records extend far beyond particular events and experiences of disaster; diverse cultural perceptions of earthquakes as expressed in ancient textual sources also offer an alternative interpretation for Mediterranean archaeology. This study reviews the material-geological record of Helike in Greece—the victim of an infamous major earthquake in 373 BC—in order to assess the impact of seismic activity on the site from the third millennium BC to the fifth century AD. Evidence for such an impact includes archaeoseismic types of destruction, anti-seismic construction in architecture and stratigraphically associated soil micromorphological evidence of seismically triggered soft sediment deformation structures (SSDS). A reassessment of ancient accounts of the 373 BC event to explore Graeco-Roman cultural perceptions of earthquakes provides a new interpretive frame for the material-geological record of Helike. This alternative interpretation repositions earthquakes, traditionally perceived as ‘natural’ disasters implicated in ‘collapse’ and ‘catastrophe’, as social phenomena. The case of Helike demonstrates the value of documentary records for reframing the complex social and political dimensions of recurrent earthquakes and persistent geological hazards.

Modelling the architecture of hazelnut (Corylus avellana) Tonda di Giffoni over two successive years

Abstract Hazelnut (Corylus avellana) cultivation is increasing worldwide. A 3D model of its structure could improve the managerial techniques such as pruning. This study aims to analyse, over two successive years, hazelnut architectural development to implement a functional structural plant model. 104 one-year-old shoots of own-rooted hazelnut trees were selected and analyzed in winter 2020 and 2021. Exploratory analyses, generalized linear models, and multinomial regression models were used to describe the architectural processes. The existence of sylleptic shoots on hazelnut one-year-old shoots, characterized by the presence of the male inflorescence on apical position, was detected. Along proleptic shoots the branching pattern was described by (1) blind nodes located in the proximal part (2) sylleptic shoots and mixed buds in the median part (3) vegetative buds in the distal part. Apical bud died during the growing season, suggesting that Tonda di Giffoni has a sympodial branching. The models revealed dependencies among buds located at the same node, in the case of proleptic shoots. Especially, the probability of a bud to burst depended on both its type (i.e., mixed or vegetative) and the presence of other buds, either mixed or vegetative. Based on these local models and on a flow diagram, which defines the steps that lead to the construction of hazelnut tree architecture, a first functional-structural plant model of hazelnut tree architecture was built. Further experiments will be needed and should be repeated over following years to extend this study toward the juvenility phase and tree architecture over time.

A quantitative gibberellin signaling biosensor reveals a role for gibberellins in internode specification at the shoot apical meristem

Growth at the shoot apical meristem (SAM) is essential for shoot architecture construction. The phytohormones gibberellins (GA) play a pivotal role in coordinating plant growth, but their role in the SAM remains mostly unknown. Here, we developed a ratiometric GA signaling biosensor by engineering one of the DELLA proteins, to suppress its master regulatory function in GA transcriptional responses while preserving its degradation upon GA sensing. We demonstrate that this degradation-based biosensor accurately reports on cellular changes in GA levels and perception during development. We used this biosensor to map GA signaling activity in the SAM. We show that high GA signaling is found primarily in cells located between organ primordia that are the precursors of internodes. By gain- and loss-of-function approaches, we further demonstrate that GAs regulate cell division plane orientation to establish the typical cellular organization of internodes, thus contributing to internode specification in the SAM.

Study on the Optimization and Expansion of the Architectural Design Process by BIM Technology

In the contemporary realm of architecture, Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology is gradually reshaping the holistic management of architectural design, construction, and operation with its distinctive advantages. Despite the widespread adoption of BIM technology, numerous challenges persist in its practical implementation, such as the prevalence of information silos and hindered collaborative workflows. These impediments constrain the further advancement of BIM technology, consequently jeopardizing the quality and efficiency of architectural projects. Confronted with this reality, there exists a pressing need to delve deeply into the optimization pathways of BIM technology in the architectural design process, aiming to devise effective remedial strategies. This article will embark from the current application status of BIM technology in architectural design, expounding upon the fundamental principles, scope of application, and optimization strategies of BIM technology. Through this analysis, it seeks to explore avenues for maximizing the utilization of BIM technology in optimizing architectural design processes, thereby enhancing the overall quality and efficiency of architectural projects. This study not only contributes to propelling technological innovation within the architecture industry but also furnishes novel perspectives and directions for subsequent related research endeavors.

Calibration of simulation model to analyze hospital building energy performance

This research paper addresses the calibration of an energy simulation model for a naturally ventilated hospital building located in Mangalore, Karnataka, India, in a warm, humid climatic zone. The study aims to enhance the accuracy of energy consumption calculations through a calibration process by developing the energy model of a reference hospital building using EnergyPlus software. The required architectural design data, construction details, occupancy and schedule data and services are collected through documents, energy audits and documentation, measured drawings, and semi-structured interviews. Calibration parameters are systematically identified and adjusted through an iterative process. The monthly electricity bill is used to validate the simulation model. The simulation model reached during the validation process has an excellent Coefficient of Variation-Root Mean Squared Error of 4.24% and a Normalized Mean Bias Error of −4.42%, both of which meet the ASHRAE-approved accuracy standards. The paper also discusses the challenges and emphasizes the need for a nuanced approach to modeling healthcare facilities. Notwithstanding the challenges faced, the study offers insightful information about how to calibrate simulation models for hospital energy usage with the significant influence of scheduling for artificial lighting and equipment usage. By pioneering a manual calibration approach tailored to hospital simulation models in the warm humid climate of India, this paper offers a novel and practical solution to address the challenges of energy performance analysis in resource-constrained environments. The calibrated simulation model presented in this study is a valuable tool for assessing and improving the energy performance of naturally ventilated healthcare facilities. By creating alternative space layouts, the research findings aim to foster the development of hospital infrastructure that is both ecologically friendly and energy-efficient in a specific climatic context. This research is assured to make a substantial contribution to the advancement of sustainable hospital design in warm-humid climates, with implications for both academia and industry.

Rational Design of Amorphous Nanomaterials for Enhanced Electrochemical CO2 and Nitrate Reduction

Amorphous materials are distinguished by their exceptional attributes, notably their expansive surface area and the profusion of active sites they present. Consequently, the amorphization process stands as an efficacious strategy to augment the catalytic efficacy of electrocatalysts. This is achieved through the meticulous construction of the surface architecture and the precise modulation of the electronic configuration of these materials. Therefore, this review aims to offer a thorough examination of the latest progress in the application of amorphous materials for the enhancement of electrocatalytic processes, with a particular emphasis on the nitrate (NO3‐) reduction reaction (NITRR) and the carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR). Initially, we delve into the structural benefits inherent to amorphous materials, outlining the diverse synthesis techniques and characterization methodologies utilized in their development. Following this, we illustrate the utilization of various amorphous materials in NITRR and CO2RR, accentuating how the amorphous framework influences electrocatalytic activities. Concludingly, we encapsulate the merits and the obstacles encountered in the application of amorphous electrocatalysts for NITRR and CO2RR, whilst also forecasting the future direction for the creation of innovative amorphous electrocatalysts.