Unique Architectural Features Research Articles

Perceptions about New York City as a Tourist Destination

The purpose of this paper is to explore how New York City is perceived as a tourist destination. The quantitative research method offered a structured approach to collecting data, allowing for the analysis and quantification of participant responses. The convenience sample consisted of 108 respondents. The aim of this study is to analyze the factors influencing both the attraction to and deterrence from visiting New York City as a tourist destination, as well as to gauge overall perceptions of the city among potential visitors. Through a comprehensive survey, key motivators such as iconic monuments, a vibrant cultural scene, and accessibility were identified as primary draws for tourists. Respondents expressed strong support for experiencing attractions like the Statue of Liberty and Broadway shows, highlighting the significance of cultural richness and unique architectural features. Conversely, the study also revealed significant barriers to visitation. The high cost of accommodation emerged as the most prominent deterrent, underscoring economic accessibility as a critical factor in tourism decision-making. Other concerns included congestion, security issues, and limited public transport options, which may dissuade potential visitors from traveling to the city. In terms of overall impressions, the results showed that a vast majority of respondents view New York City as an iconic and glamorous location with a diverse cultural landscape. Most participants expressed a willingness to recommend the city to friends and family, although a notable percentage exhibited reservations. Furthermore, the analysis emphasized the importance of affordable options for activities and attractions, suggesting that enhancing economic accessibility could positively influence visitation rates. Overall, the findings provide valuable insights for tourism agencies and local authorities. By addressing key concerns and highlighting the city's unique offerings, strategies can be developed to enhance New York City's appeal and accessibility, ultimately boosting its status as a leading tourist destination.

Building a Chinese ancient architecture multimodal dataset combining image, annotation and style-model

In this rapidly evolving era of multimodal generation, diffusion models exhibit impressive generative capabilities, significantly enhancing the realm of creative image synthesis by intricately textual prompts. Yet, their effectiveness is limited in certain niche sectors, like depicting Chinese ancient architecture. This limitation is primarily due to the insufficient data that fails to encompass the unique architectural features and corresponding text information. Hence, we build an extensive multimodal dataset capturing the essence of Chinese architectures mostly from the Tang to the Yuan Dynasties. The dataset is categorized on the types, including image&text, video, and style models. In details, images and videos are methodically categorized based on locations. All images are annotated at two levels: initial annotations and descriptive terms based on distinctive characteristics and official information. Moreover, seven artistic styles fine-tuning models are provided in our dataset for further innovations. Significantly, this is the first Chinese ancient architecture dataset and the instance of using the Pinyin system to annotate unique terms related to Chinese architectural styles.

The effects of different functional groups in Ni3-cluster MOFs on the efficient capture and transformation for flue gas CO2

As the greenhouse effect continuous increasing, the efficient CO2 capture and conversion into high-value fine chemicals have been necessary and meaningful. However, the CO2 coupling reaction always requires harsh catalytic reaction conditions and focuses on pure CO2 gas. Herein, three nickel-cluster metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with different functional groups on the bridging-ligands have been synthesized and characterized structurally, presenting unique cages and channels architectural features. Catalytic investigations demonstrated that the amino-functionalized MOFs as a catalyst {[H2N(CH3)2]2[Ni3(µ3-O)(XN)(BDC-NH2)3∙7DMF}n (Ni3-NH2, XN = 6′′-(pyridin4-yl)-4,2′′:4′′,4′′′-terpyridine, H2BDC-NH2 = 2-aminoterephthalic acid) owns higher catalytic activity (96 %) than the other two in the CO2 transformation reaction with aziridine into oxazolidinones under 0.5 MPa within 4 h. Moreover, Ni3-NH2 can be reused at least ten times without significant catalytic activity loss under mild condition. Importantly, Ni3-NH2 catalyst still can be applicable to the simulating flue gas with 15 % CO2 as carbon source. The mechanism has been further revealed by NMR, FT-IR and DFT calculations, in which the Ni-site and the amino group can synergistically activate the substrate and CO2 molecule. This work has enriched the species of cluster-based MOFs and investigated the influence of characteristic functional groups on the catalytic activity deeply.

Phase change-mediated core-sheath 3D printing of hollow microlattice pseudocapacitive aerogel electrode with favorable electrochemical properties

Channel-interconnected regulation within 3D-printed pseudocapacitive electrode architecture to generate high active material loading/utilization and fast ion transport is pivotal but challenging for implementing high-performance pseudocapacitance system. Herein, we demonstrated an innovative phase change-mediated core-sheath direct ink writing (DIW) 3D printing strategy for controllably constructing pseudocapacitive hollow-microlattice graphene/NiCo2O4 aerogel (HGNA) electrode, with regular hollow channels in printed filaments and abundant well-interconnected hierarchical pores built by jointing tortuous pseudocapacitive graphene nanosheets. The unique architectural features facilitated highly efficient diffusion and infiltration of substance throughout the entire thick filaments from both “interior-exterior” and “exterior-interior” directions, thereby enabling high-level yet effective loading of active materials as well as unimpeded ion transport across the printed bulk-structured electrode. Kinetics analysis revealed that the capacitance of pseudocapacitive HGNA electrode was primarily contributed from fast kinetic process. An asymmetric device assembled with DIW-printed HGNA electrode boasted a high energy storage performance with capacitance of 3.43 F cm−2 and energy density of 1.01 mWh cm−2, while featuring remarkable cycling stability (87% after 8000 cycles) and superior capacity even at large electrode thickness. This work opens a promising route for processing rational pseudocapacitive electrode architectures toward high-capacity, fast-kinetics devices.

Centrifugation-modulated uniform antibacterial paper with well-interconnected hierarchical pores for flexible high-sensitivity humidity monitoring

Humidity-sensitive electrode architecture with high uniformity and enriched open pores is essential and crucial to the high-performance humidity monitoring. However, challenges remain pertaining to manufacturing consistency, remarkable water trapping and superior electrical conductivity. Herein, we demonstrated a facile and controllable centrifugal casting strategy for consistently constructing flexible antibacterial graphene oxide (GO)-silver nanowire (AgNW) humidity sensor, with ample well-interconnected hierarchical pores built by uniformly-distributed AgNWs and orientated GO nanosheets. The unique architectural features facilitated highly efficient transport and high-level trapping of water molecules, and meanwhile guaranteed continuous conductive network for accelerating electrochemical reactions of water molecules trapped inside the device, thereby boasting impressive humidity-sensing capability with a wide sensing range (7.6–95.6 % relative humidity (RH)), a low detection limit (3.8 % RH), good long-time stability (more than 100 days), exceptional folding durability (up to 1000 times), superior selectivity and sensitive monitoring in actual scenes. This work opens a promising route for architecting advanced humidity sensor with prominent monitoring ability toward future uses.

In situ anchoring of FeNi nanoparticles into three-dimensional nitrogen-doped carbon framework as a self-supporting electrode for high-performance lithium storage

Constructing free-standing electrodes with superior lithium storage capacity and good mechanical performance are fascinating for next-generation lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Nevertheless, their practical application is hindered by complicated synthesis procedures and high cost. Herein, a highly stable, self-supporting and flexible electrode material for LIBs was constructed by encapsulating spherical FeNi nanoparticles into one-dimensional N-doped carbon fiber film (FeNi/N- CFM) using the electrospinning technique and subsequent heat treatment. The FeNi/N-CFM can be directly used as anode materials for LIBs without conductive additive, current collector and binder. The synergistic effect of uniformly dispersed small FeNi nanoparticles and three-dimensional (3D) conductive network constructed by CF framework effectively improves the utilization rate of active materials, enhances the transport of both electrons and lithium ions, facilitates the electrolyte penetration, and promotes the lithium-ion storage kinetics and stability, thus leading to a greatly enhanced electrochemical performance. Benefiting from the unique architectural feature and flexibility, the FeNi/N-CFM composites employed as binder-free electrodes for LIBs exhibit good lithium storage performance (an initial discharge capacity of 1031.5 mA h g−1 and a reversible capacity of 481.3 mA h g−1 at 100 mA g−1 after 100 cycles), rate capacity (305.1 mA h g−1 at 1000 mA g−1) and outstanding reversibility (coulombic efficiency of around 100 % after 100 cycles). Furthermore, this work also provides a facile and effective pathway to design and fabricate free-standing electrodes.

Assessing evacuation risks in prominent historical mosques: An integrated quantitative and qualitative approach via the HM-ERI framework

Historical mosques, with their unique architectural features and high occupant densities, pose distinct challenges for safe and efficient evacuation. This study introduces the Historical Mosque Evacuation Risk Index (HM-ERI), a novel and comprehensive framework specifically designed to assess evacuation risks in these culturally significant structures. The HM-ERI model integrates three quantitative criteria derived from agent-based simulations and seventeen qualitative criteria assessed through on-site evaluations, generating two dimensionless risk scores: HM-ERIQN (quantitative risk) and HM-ERIQL (qualitative risk). Analysisof 12 prominent 15th and 16th century mosques in Turkey revealed a spectrum of evacuation risk levels. The mosques' HM-ERIQN values ranged from 0.27 (low risk) to 0.80 (high risk) in the range of 0–1, indicating variations in potential congestion and evacuation efficiency based on simulated total evacuation times ranging from 2 min 46.3 s to 8 min 18.5 s. HM-ERIQL values, reflecting the severity of qualitative factors on a 0–1 scale such as the lack of alternative exits, improper placement of shoe racks, complex building layouts, and limited emergency preparedness, fell between 0.46 and 0.73, indicating moderate to high risks.By integrating expert judgment and utilizing data from both simulations and on-site observations, the HM-ERI framework provides a practical tool for identifying high-risk historical mosques and informing targeted interventions to enhance evacuation safety. This research contributes to developing enhanced evacuation standards for these culturally significant structures, enabling improved safety evaluations and guiding effective preservation strategies that prioritize human life and cultural heritage.

Electrocatalytic Conversion of CO2 to Formic Acid: A Journey from 3d-Transition Metal-Based Molecular Catalyst Design to Electrolyzer Assembly.

ConspectusElectrochemical CO2 reduction to obtain formate or formic acid is receiving significant attention as a method to combat the global warming crisis. Significant efforts have been devoted to the advancement of CO2 reduction techniques over the past few decades. This Account provides a unified discussion on various electrochemical methodologies for CO2 to formate conversion, with a particular focus on recent advancements in utilizing 3d-transition-metal-based molecular catalysts. This Account primarily focuses on understanding molecular functions and mechanisms under homogeneous conditions, which is essential for assessing the optimized reaction conditions for molecular catalysts. The unique architectural features of the formate dehydrogenase (FDH) enzyme provide insight into the key role of the surrounding protein scaffold in modulating the active site dynamics for stabilizing the key metal-bound CO2 intermediate. Additionally, the protein moiety also triggers a facile proton relay around the active site to drive electrocatalytic CO2 reduction forward. The fine-tuning of FDH machinery also ensures that the electrocatalytic CO2 reduction leads to the production of formic acid as the major yield without any other carbonaceous products, while limiting the competitive hydrogen evolution reaction. These lessons from the enzymes are key in designing biomimetic molecular catalysts, primarily based on multidentate ligand scaffolds containing peripheral proton relays. The subtle modifications of the ligand framework ensure the favored production of formic acid following electrocatalytic CO2 reduction in the solution phase. Next, the molecular catalysts are required to be mounted on robust electroactive surfaces to develop their corresponding heterogeneous versions. The surface-immobilization provides an edge to the molecular electrocatalysts as their reactivity can be scaled up with improved durability for long-term electrocatalysis. Despite challenges in developing high-performance, selective catalysts for the CO2 to formic acid transformation, significant progress is being made with the tactical use of graphene and carbon nanotube-based materials. To date, the majority of the research activity stops here, as the development of an operational CO2 to formic acid converting electrolyzer prototype still remains in its infancy. To elaborate on the potential future steps, this Account covers the design, scaling parameters, and existing challenges of assembling large-scale electrolyzers. A short glimpse at the utilization of electrolyzers for industrial-scale CO2 reduction is also provided here. The proper evaluation of the surface-immobilized electrocatalysts assembled in an electrolyzer is a key step for gauging their potential for practical viability. Here, the key electrochemical parameters and their expected values for industrial-scale electrolyzers have been discussed. Finally, the techno-economic aspects of the electrolyzer setup are summarized, completing the journey from tactical design of molecular catalysts to their appropriate application in a commercially viable electrolyzer setup for CO2 to formate electroreduction. Thus, this Account portrays the complete story of the evolution of a molecular catalyst to its sustainable application in CO2 utilization.

Unveiling the stochastic nature of human heteropolymer ferritin self-assembly mechanism.

Despite ferritin's critical role in regulating cellular and systemic iron levels, our understanding of the structure and assembly mechanism of isoferritins, discovered over eight decades ago, remains limited. Unveiling how the composition and molecular architecture of hetero-oligomeric ferritins confer distinct functionality to isoferritins is essential to understanding how the structural intricacies of H and L subunits influence their interactions with cellular machinery. In this study, ferritin heteropolymers with specific H to L subunit ratios were synthesized using a uniquely engineered plasmid design, followed by high-resolution cryo-electron microscopy analysis and deep learning-based amino acid modeling. Our structural examination revealed unique architectural features during the self-assembly mechanism of heteropolymer ferritins and demonstrated a significant preference for H-L heterodimer formation over H-H or L-L homodimers. Unexpectedly, while dimers seem essential building blocks in the protein self-assembly process, the overall mechanism of ferritin self-assembly is observed to proceed randomly through diverse pathways. The physiological significance of these findings is discussed including how ferritin microheterogeneity could represent a tissue-specific adaptation process that imparts distinctive tissue-specific functions to isoferritins.

Dentin Mechanobiology: Bridging the Gap between Architecture and Function.

It is remarkable how teeth maintain their healthy condition under exceptionally high levels of mechanical loading. This suggests the presence of inherent mechanical adaptation mechanisms within their structure to counter constant stress. Dentin, situated between enamel and pulp, plays a crucial role in mechanically supporting tooth function. Its intermediate stiffness and viscoelastic properties, attributed to its mineralized, nanofibrous extracellular matrix, provide flexibility, strength, and rigidity, enabling it to withstand mechanical loading without fracturing. Moreover, dentin's unique architectural features, such as odontoblast processes within dentinal tubules and spatial compartmentalization between odontoblasts in dentin and sensory neurons in pulp, contribute to a distinctive sensory perception of external stimuli while acting as a defensive barrier for the dentin-pulp complex. Since dentin's architecture governs its functions in nociception and repair in response to mechanical stimuli, understanding dentin mechanobiology is crucial for developing treatments for pain management in dentin-associated diseases and dentin-pulp regeneration. This review discusses how dentin's physical features regulate mechano-sensing, focusing on mechano-sensitive ion channels. Additionally, we explore advanced in vitro platforms that mimic dentin's physical features, providing deeper insights into fundamental mechanobiological phenomena and laying the groundwork for effective mechano-therapeutic strategies for dentinal diseases.

Expansion-flow-modulated 3D printing of vertically aligned graphene photofuel cell

Channel-aligned regulation of photoelectrode within the bulk structure to generate eminent light absorbance and high-level pollutant adsorption is pivotal but challenging for realizing high-performance photofuel cell (PFC) system. Herein, we demonstrated an effective and scalable expansion-flow-modulated direct ink writing (DIW) 3D printing strategy for controllably constructing microlattice photoelectrode, with multiscale well-interconnected oriented channels built by layer-by-layer highly-regular assembly of filaments and vertical alignment of graphene nanosheets within filaments as well as uniform coupling of abundant photoactive nanoparticles to highly ordered channel walls. The unique architectural features enabled high-speed and effective diffusion/trapping of wastewater pollutants throughout the entire photoelectrode, and meanwhile facilitated ready spreading of incident light into the photoelectrode interior to yield high light absorption. As a result, an integrated 3D-printed vertically-aligned PFC (3DP VAPFC) assembled with as-fabricated photoelectrode exhibited its powerful capability for efficiently converting wastewater pollutants into electric energy under sunlight, with remarkable cycling stability and maximum power density of 0.11 mW cm−2. This work opens a promising route for architecting advanced photoelectrode toward PFC devices with highly efficient degradation and electricity generation of pollutants.

Cultural Character Analysis on Architectural Elements of the Chinese Temples’ Buildings before the 19th Century in Central Java

The research provided an in-depth exploration of the architectural nuances of pre-19th century Chinese temples in Central Java, Indonesia, emphasizing their cultural significance and relevance. A detailed examination of a range of temples identified unique architectural features that reflected a sophisticated synthesis of Chinese cultural elements and local Javanese traditions. Applying a qualitative method, the research integrated historical scrutiny with architectural analysis, meticulously examining stylistic attributes, construction methodologies, and decorative patterns typical of these temples. The key discoveries highlight an intricate amalgamation of traditional Chinese architectural principles with native materials and craftsmanship, culminating in a distinctive, hybrid architectural form. This fusion not only symbolizes the cultural convergence and assimilation between Chinese immigrants and the indigenous Javanese during the pre-colonial era but also underscores the role of these temples as pivotal preservers of Chinese cultural heritage in Java. Furthermore, the research contributes to a deeper understanding of the diversity within architectural practices and offers insightful perspectives on the historical and socio-cultural dynamics in Central Java. The novelty of the research is anchored in its focused examination of a historically and geographically specific context, its interdisciplinary and thorough approach, the revelation of a unique hybrid architectural style, and its significant insights into the cultural and sociological dimensions of Central Java’s architectural legacy.

Exploring Historical Traditions in Spatial Planning for Multi-Family Residential Buildings

This study delves into the intricacies of spatial planning solutions for various types of residential and public buildings, highlighting a complex workflow in their design. Focusing on multi-family residential buildings, the research primarily considers economic factors during the design process. Specifically, it explores Uzbekistan's unique historical tradition in constructing residential buildings, offering insights into two distinct versions - national and European. Notably, these buildings predominantly feature separate courtyards. Through a comprehensive analysis of goals, methods, results, and implications, this study contributes valuable knowledge to the global discourse on architectural design and spatial planning.
 Highlights:
 
 The study explores the complexity of spatial planning solutions for residential and public buildings.
 Economic considerations play a crucial role in the design of multi-family residential buildings.
 Uzbekistan's historical tradition in residential construction reveals unique architectural features.
 
 Keywords: Planning Solutions, Residential Buildings, Architectural Design

Cultural Influence on Architectural Evolution in Nigeria: A Case Study of Igala Indigenous Homestead

Architecture and culture are two concepts that represent the identification of any society. Architecture is the manifestation and expression of culture. So, Architecture and Culture are interdependent and inseparable. Research has identified culture as the main factor in the evolution of the architecture of a people and it plays an important role in the environmental and social development and sustainability of a place. The culture of any society is based on their beliefs, history, civilization, climate and customs, whilst architecture symbolizes a society’s culture that has evolved. This research explores the intricate relationship between culture and architecture in the evolution of traditional architecture in Nigeria, with a specific focus on the evolution of the indigenous homestead of the Igala people of North Central Nigeria. Employing a narrative approach, the study utilized historical research, field surveys, and interviews to explore how cultural beliefs, norms, practices, and socio-cultural factors have profoundly influenced the design and planning of Igala traditional dwellings. By investigating the interplay between indigenous knowledge systems, community practices, and material availability, the research uncovers the unique architectural features that have emerged from the rich tapestry of Igala culture to include the long straight entrance path (ojikpologu), the circular curvilinear homestead and buildings, courtyard (anuku/okolo), reception house (atakpa), and food storage barn (aka). Others include shrine (achękwu), grinding hut (ǫdǫ-okuta), animals’ pen (unyi-amęñwu-ǫrę), and security fence (ϙgba), all deeply rooted in Igala culture. This research provides valuable insights into the adaptability of traditional architecture to culture. It further offers essential knowledge for architects, preservationists, and policymakers, guiding their efforts in heritage preservation, sustainable architectural design, and urban planning within multicultural contexts.

A 87 dB SNR and THD+N 0.03% HiFi Grade Audio Preamplifier

This paper presents a significant contribution to high-fidelity audio technology through the comprehensive design and implementation of an advanced audio-grade preamplifier integrated with a high-performance digital-to-analog converter (DAC). The versatility of the digital section allows seamless integration of audio sources from Universal Serial Bus (USB), Bluetooth, or Sony-Philips Digital interface (SPDIF). In addition, the preamplifier accommodates various analog sources, offering flexibility to users. The unique architecture features an innovative resistor network-based DAC and precision components in the analog section, paving the way for achieving unparalleled audio fidelity. The measured distortion values are remarkably low, with a total harmonic distortion plus noise (THD+N) of only 0.03%. Furthermore, the system exhibits a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 87 dB, comparable to industry benchmark. The hardware design sections went into meticulous details, providing an in-depth exploration of each block of the project. The inclusion of test and measurement data from the actual prototype enhances the credibility of the proposed work. This research not only showcases the theoretical operation of the preamplifier and DAC stage but also validates the practical implementation through many rounds of testing and validation. Our proposed work contributes to the field of high-fidelity audio by presenting a novel solution that is comparable to industry standards. The design’s adaptability to many different audio sources, coupled with robust performance metrics, positions it as a benchmark in the field of audio reproduction. The measurement results and findings presented in this paper are poised to influence future advancements in HiFi audio technology.

Preserving Cultural Identity through Architecture: A Case Study of Traditional Tenganan Village (Desa Adat)

This research investigates the role of architecture in preserving cultural identity through a case study of Tenganan Customary Village. The village features rich traditional architecture with distinctive cultural values. Through the use of traditional building materials, unique architectural features, organized spatial arrangement, cultural activities, rituals, and active community involvement, the cultural identity of Tenganan Village has been successfully maintained and preserved. The study employs a qualitative approach, incorporating literature review, field survey, and interviews as data collection methods. The research findings highlight the significant role of architecture in cultural identity preservation, with active community participation being a key factor in sustaining the culture. These findings offer valuable insights for policymaking and practices in preserving cultural identity through architecture, not only in Tenganan Customary Village but also in other regions with rich cultural heritage.

Finite Element Analysis of a Historic Masonry Building with Unique Architectural Features: A Case of KLP Building at İÜC Cerrahpaşa Campus

Finite Element Analysis of a Historic Masonry Building with Unique Architectural Features: A Case of KLP Building at İÜC Cerrahpaşa Campus

Tailoring aligned and densified carbon nanotube@graphene coaxial yarn for 3D thermally conductive networks

3D efficient heat dissipation is essential and critical to the high-performance thermal management systems. However, challenges remain pertaining to manufacturing controllability and consistency, as well as 3D interconnected highly thermally conducive networks. Herein, a novel heat conduction architecture featuring high uniformity and condensity was constructed by tailoring aligned and densified carbon nanotube (CNT)@graphene oxide (GO) coaxial yarn assembled via a facile and controllable roll-dip-coating strategy into an integral whole, with extraordinary 3D interconnection of aligned highly crystalline graphene nanosheets. The unique architectural features of the resulting CNT-graphene film (CGF) guaranteed adequate pathways acting as “superhighways” for rapid 3D heat transfer, thereby enabling a high-efficiency 3D heat dissipation behavior, with the in-plane and through-plane thermal conductivities reached as high as 804.9 and 63.8 W m−1 K−1, respectively. This work has shed light on new strategies for designing and fabricating 3D highly thermally conducive microstructures toward high-efficiency thermal management systems.

Cultural Connotation of Architectural Features of Wooden Houses in Western Sichuan

The western Sichuan region has a long history and a rich humanistic culture, while the local wood-frame residential architecture has a simple and elegant style under the influence of its unique Shu culture. This study aims to explore the cultural causes behind the unique architectural features of the western Sichuan dwellings from three aspects: site selection, material selection, and construction feature.

3D-printed graphene-anatase TiO2 photoanode with well-interconnected hierarchical channels for integrated self-floating photofuel cell powered by seawater pollutants

Photoelectrode architecture with well-interconnected oriented micro- and nanochannels is essential and critical for photofuel cell (PFC) to high-performance energy conversion of pollutants. However, challenges remain pertaining to manufacturing consistency and scalability, high efficiency in pollutant trapping and remarkable light absorption. Herein, a novel photoelectrode featuring porous microlattice structure was constructed via a scalable and controllable extrusion-based 3D printing strategy, with well-interconnected oriented channels as well as enriched hierarchical and open pores built by jointing tortuous photoactive graphene sheets. The unique architectural features facilitated high light absorption, and meanwhile guaranteed unimpeded channels acting as “superhighways” for rapid seawater pollutant diffusion and trapping. An integrated PFC assembled with 3D-printed photoelectrode demonstrated impressive photoelectric conversion capability for seawater pollutants under persistent self-floating and sunlight, with exceptional cycling stability and maximum power density of 0.09 mW cm−2. This work has shed light on new strategies for fabricating rational photoelectrode architectures toward high-performance PFC devices.