RSS 1.0Faculty of Science and Engineering
Recent Submissions
-
From heritage building information modelling towards an ‘echo-based’ heritage digital twinSince the late 2000s, numerous studies have focused on the application of Heritage Building Information Modelling (HBIM) processes and technologies for the documentation of the historic built environment. Many of these studies have focused on the use of BIM software tools to generate intelligent 3D models using information gathered from a range of data capture techniques including laser scanning and photogrammetry. While this approach effectively preserves existing or partially extant heritage, it faces limitations in reconstructing lost or poorly documented structures. The aim of this study is to develop a novel approach to complement the existing tangible-based HBIM methods, towards an ‘Echo-based’ Heritage Digital Twin (EH-DT) an early-stage digital representation that leverages intangible, memory-based oral descriptions (or echoes) and AI text-to-image generation techniques. The overall methodology for the research presented in this paper proposes a three-phase framework. Phase 1: engineering a standardised heritage prompt template, Phase 2: creation of the Architectural Heritage Transformer, and Phase 3: implementing an AI text-to-image generation toolkit. Within these phases, intangible data, including collective memories (or oral histories) of people who had first-hand experience with the building, provide ‘echoes’ of past form. These can then be converted using a novel ‘Architectural Heritage Transformer’ (AHT), which converts plain language descriptions into architectural terminology through a generated taxonomy. The output of the AHT forms input for a pre-created standardised heritage prompt template for use in AI diffusion models. While the current EH-DT framework focuses on producing 2D visual representations, it lays the foundation for potential future integration with HBIM models or digital twin systems. However, the reliance on generative AI introduces potential risks of inaccuracies due to speculative outputs, necessitating rigorous validation and iterative refinement to ensure historical and architectural credibility. The findings indicate the potential of AI to extend the current HBIM paradigm by generating images of ‘lost’ heritage buildings, which can then be used to enhance and augment the more ‘traditional’ HBIM process.
-
A novel reflective material coated polyurethane resin-based porous composite paving material for mitigating urban heat island effectIncreasing urban temperatures due to the urban heat island effect and global warming have become a significant concern around the world. As urban areas grow, they often replace naturally permeable materials with impermeable ones, contributing to the urban heat island effect, and raising temperatures by 1 to 3°C annually. This study proposes a solution in the form of a novel resin-based composite paving material that is permeable, reflects sunlight, and maintains flexural strength. The composite consists of natural stone aggregate, recycled plastic, recycled rubber, and polyurethane resin. Testing revealed a flexure strength range of 2.46–2.8 MPa suitable for moderate loads. Optimal proportions featured equal volume percentages of stone aggregate, plastic, and rubber at 0.07 g cm−3 of polyurethane resin offering a 27% porosity aiding water drainage. The porosity analysis conducted on the resin-based composite paving sample using X-ray tomography data found a total porosity of 27.14%, indicating the volume of voids present within the material composed of 26.43%, connected porosity and 0.71% isolated porosity. Anti-skid tests confirmed excellent pedestrian safety with pendulum test values above 35 PTV. Coatings such as glass beads, epoxy white paste, and aluminium powder were explored to enhance reflectivity. Aluminium powder-coated pavement achieved the highest Albedo index of 0.096353, 101.7% more reflective than the reference, surpassing glass bead and epoxy white paste coatings. This innovative paving material addresses urban heat island concerns while offering safety and enhanced reflectivity for public walkways.
-
Achieving sustainability in civil engineering projects in Nigeria: a case for climate changeThis paper investigates the nexus between infrastructure and climate change in Nigeria, particularly amidst rapid urbanization. Employing a qualitative methodology, the study delves into industry perspectives, prevailing sustainable practices, and recommendations through in-depth interviews with ten seasoned professionals spanning Nigeria's six geopolitical zones. Study findings underscore a growing awareness of climate change, manifested through tangible impacts like flooding, heatwaves, loss of livelihood, biodiversity loss, desertification, and health repercussions. However, a noticeable knowledge gap persists, particularly concerning the implications for the built environment. Encouragingly, participants are already incorporating certain sustainable practices such as green land conservation, renewable energy, and low-carbon materials, albeit predominantly in highway and building projects. The study highlights an urgent imperative to expedite the construction industry's shift toward climate-conscious practices. This necessitates robust interventions encompassing awareness campaigns, legislative measures, incentives, and fostering public-private collaboration. The study underscores that as Nigeria progresses towards its infrastructure development ambitions, overlooking the sector's environmental implications risks exacerbating emissions.
-
The use of gamification in safety training for construction workers: evidence from Lagos State, NigeriaGamification has a long-term effect on safety training for workers based on the lasting impact on memory and retention through simulation and inclusiveness in training activities to check of safety measures on-site. While the knowledge and application of gamification continually expands as a training measure in the construction industry, its application in Nigeria is still largely understudied. Therefore, this study investigates its use in safety training measure amongst construction experts within the context in Lagos State Nigeria. The study revealed that the application of gamification in the construction industry is beneficial for employees in the construction field as it enhances efficiency in operations and task delivery. The design method of research adopted is the quantitative methodology which considers the positivist method to ensure that the numerical data in research in general is scientific and analyzed with scientific tools and approaches. 0.839 Cronbach's Alpha score reliability test was applied to data and 0.839 score was achieved which shows high level of data reliability. The study found that the knowledge on gamification in the construction industry is Nigeria is higher among the high-ranking experts involved in training activities who are responsible for encouraging firms to adopt this approach as an effective training tool. Although the lower ranking experts who are more exposed to accident hazards are knowledgeable in theoretical safety training, hence, the call for gamification to be included as training tool for all employees due to its associated benefits in enhancing efficiency since gamification is seen to be an effective addition to safety training in construction. The implication of this study is the revealed opportunities to tailor gamified training to specific roles and associated hazard on project sites which could further influence safety regulations and training requirement in the construction industry.
-
Offsite manufacturing for housing in emerging economies: An evaluation of current implementation levelsHousing supply is at critical limits globally despite being enshrined as a fundamental human right. The implication of this remains nearly oblivious to fostering adequate supply. Compounding that is the added quality requirement for housing to be climate resilient. Offsite manufacturing has been identified as a viable solution to increase the supply of climate-resilient housing; however, there is a contextual gap as implementation in Emerging Economies (EE) where population growth and urbanization are rapidly occurring is less represented in literature. Additionally, while offsite manufacturing is rooted in prefabrication, an evolution of its use in EE is less documented. This study employs a quantitative methodology through a survey questionnaire of 68 construction professionals operating as Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the housing sector in a typified EE. Participants were selected using stratified random sampling across demographic variables. The study provides insights into technology adoption and design for manufacturing, which show limited adoption of contextual offsite-enhancing technologies. However, other vital aspects crucial to the increased adoption of offsite processes, such as supply chain relations between stakeholders, are established, albeit with room for improvement to attain strategic partnerships. This study's findings suggest a pragmatic approach - leveraging current practices as a starting point and formulating a roadmap for gradually integrating more sophisticated OMPs over time. Further, it contributes to a deeper understanding of how offsite manufacturing can be harnessed to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of housing construction in EE, thereby advancing climate-responsive housing development in these regions.
-
Closing the housing gap in the UK: A preliminary study of using the offsite construction approach on Brownfield siteThe housing shortage in the UK has remained a prevalent and pressing issue, prompting a need for innovative and sustainable solutions. One contributing factor to this is limited availability of land, including brownfields sites. The offsite construction (OSC) approach has been recognized as a viable and eco-friendly solution to addressing the issue, yet its potential on brownfield site (BFS) remains largely unexplored. Prior research of literature suggested that integrating OSC on brownfield site has the capacity to support housing supply , while addressing some of the challenges of developing on BFS. A focus group discussion was conducted to establish industry opinion on the factors militating against the wide adoption of OSC approach on BFS for housing development despite the promises both concepts hold to support sustainable housing delivery. The study found that the UK government actively promotes BFS redevelopments and OSC approach to achieve sustainability goals, protect the greenbelt, and mitigate the housing crisis through policy and financial instruments. The study further grouped the findings of adopting OSC approach on BFS under process, human impact and sustainability. The result contributes to the literature by promoting the integration of OSC approach and BFS development and offer valuable insights for policymakers on the efficiency and effectiveness of government support instruments in relation to OSC and BFS for sustainable housing solutions.
-
Formalization: optimizing its principles for improving small-scale gold-miningFor years, the worldwide gold mining sector has grappled with environmental and social issues, particularly evident in the small-scale operations which are predominant in developing nations. This research examines the incorporation of “Mining Formalization” into a framework for small-scale gold mining, with the goal of suggesting methods that could bolster environmental conservation and social accountability. Concentrating on developing countries where small-scale mining significantly influences local economies, this study investigates the customization of formalization principles to diminish human and environmental harm, by advocating for ethical regulatory frameworks and standards, fostering community development, and achieving the advancement of enforcement and oversight. Employing a multidisciplinary approach, this study adopts a single source systematic search (4S) strategy for its methodology. It then reviewed and integrated geological, environmental, social, and economic viewpoints to frame a holistic set of recommendations that can create significant positive changes when applied as an optimized set of Formalization Standards. Thus, by tackling specific challenges encountered by small-scale gold ventures, this investigation now offers practical insights and advice for policymakers, mining communities, and industry players that can be adopted to cultivate a more sustainable and socially accountable path for small-scale gold mining in developing nations. Envisaging a future where small-scale gold mining can contribute as a positive force for both environmental and local community welfare, this research also endeavoured to optimize its advantages, aligning them with global happenings that are tending toward responsible resource extraction.
-
Novel scent enrichment enhances socio-sexual and olfactory behaviors in zoo-housed gentle lemursThe Alaotran gentle lemur (Hapalemur Alaotrensis) is one of the most endangered primates in the world and shows a low success rate in captive breeding programmes. We tested a novel scent enrichment, made up of a synthesized mixture likely conveying information about female fertility, on four unsuccessful breeding pairs (n = 8 subjects) living at the Jersey, Birmingham, London (United Kingdom) and Mulhouse (France) zoos. We evaluated the effects of the scent enrichment on behavior (515 h of observation) and fecal endocrinology (cortisol and testosterone measurements) (n = 180 samples) comparing pre- enrichment, enrichment and post- enrichment phases. We found a small effect by sex on olfactory behaviors related to the enrichment. We also found that both male and female sexual behaviors significantly increased during the enrichment. Conversely, we did not find any significant change related to enrichment in cortisol and testosterone levels, whilst some effect by the zoo environment. Our results show little effectiveness by the scent enrichment as the lemur hormone levels did not change significantly and the lemurs continued to fail to reproduce following the enrichment. Nevertheless, our findings highlight that biologically relevant scent may trigger natural species-specific behaviors, with potential implications for enhancing behavioral health and management of zoo-based endangered lemur species.
-
Attitude and knowledge about electroconvulsive therapy among trainee doctors and psychiatrists: A survey before and after a training sessionBACKGROUND: Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a safe and effective treatment in psychiatry, but its use is decreasing. AIM: It was intended to evaluate the attitude and knowledge among psychiatric trainees and psychiatrists and any change following a training session on ECT. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A survey was conducted in a teaching psychiatric hospital before and after a training session on ECT using questionnaires on attitude, knowledge, and clinical scenarios for prescribing ECT. RESULTS: This study suggested that the majority of trainees and psychiatrists had positive attitudes and appreciable knowledge base regarding ECT. There were uncertainties in a few areas, such as ECT for treatment-resistant depression without risk of self or others, treatment-resistant schizophrenia, patients with no mental capacity, and those who refuse to consent. The change following the training session was more prominent in prescribing scenarios. In other areas, the change was marginal, probably because of the ceiling effect. CONCLUSIONS: While psychiatrists and trainees maintain positive attitude and appreciable knowledge about ECT, it is essential to remain aware of recent advances and guidelines about ECT through training to continue prescribing it appropriately.
-
Bioprinting of plant-derived biomaterials for tissue engineering applicationsAlginate-based hydrogels are plant-derived biopolymers that received extensive research and industrial attention for water treatment, food, electronics, and biomedical sectors. In particular, alginate-based hydrogels exhibit biocompatibility, bioactivity, biodegradability, biorestorability, and hydrophilicity. Hence, they are favorable for many human health applications, such as, tissue engineering, tissue healing, soft biomedical implants, drug delivery, etc., Recently, bioprinting was used for alginate-based biomaterials to enable the precise fabrication of constructs with customized shapes and enhanced functionality. This chapter reviews the recent developments in 3D-printed alginate-based hydrogels, focusing on rheological characteristics, mechanical properties, and biological performance and highlighting their prominent role in addressing healthcare challenges.
-
Personality dimension, suicidal intent, and lethality: a cross-sectional study of suicide attempters with or without personality disordersBackground: Although personality disorders (PD) are known risk factors for suicide attempts, studies on personality dimension are scarce, which may provide further insights for interventions. Methods: The relationship between personality dimension, lethality, intent, and quality of life (QOL) was studied in suicide attempters with or without PD. We used the international personality disorder examination (IPDE) dimensional score, the scale for assessment of lethality of suicide attempt (SALSA), suicide intent scale (SIS), and WHOQOL-BREF QOL scale, to assess a sample of suicide attempters admitted to a general hospital. Results: PD was present in 43.2% and 57.9% of them had more than one PD. Comparison of attempters with or without PD suggested that the lethality of attempts and QOL were comparable, whereas self-reported suicide intent was significantly low in patients with PD. A higher proportion of PD patients reported relational problems as the reason for the attempt. The personality dimensional score was significantly higher for female attempters from urban backgrounds than for those with previous attempt histories. It was negatively correlated with the lethality of attempts and suicide intent. Conclusion: It is important to explore the personality dimension of the suicide attempters, along with PD, that may highlight additional risks and suggest the need for specific support.
-
Coping strategies used by children and adolescents following disaster trauma: A review of associated factors and intervention optionsChildren and adolescents are more vulnerable to disaster-related trauma. The specific aim of this paper was to review the coping strategies used by children and adolescents in the aftermath of disasters. The relationship of coping methods with psychological consequences were also explored, along with the effectiveness of specific strategies in dealing with traumatic experiences of disasters. A literature search of electronic databases, involving the keywords “coping,” “children” and “adolescents,” and “disaster” was done along with secondary searches of the cross references. It was evident that children and adolescents use a range of coping strategies, and a large proportion of them are helpful, while others could be detrimental to their mental health. Many children and adolescents cope with disaster trauma and are resilient. Facilitation of positive coping methods can be used as an intervention along with other supportive activities and as a part of other psychological interventions. Coping can be supported by family, nonprofessional caregivers, community, and clinicians. There is a research need to develop consensus about the terminologies and culture-specific coping assessments and to explore the short- and long-term effectiveness of interventions focused on coping.
-
Longevity at sixty: factors influencing life expectancy in old ageWhile longevity is increasing in general, factors that can prolong the life of older adults constitute an area to explore. At the same time, it is not just adding years to life, but having increased periods of disability-free life, with increased productivity and functioning. Many factors influence remaining life expectancy at the age of 60 which could be biological, clinical, and psychosocial in nature. The usual ingredients that support a healthy life may help in older adults as well, however, specific efforts to prevent diseases and adequate management of existing physical and mental illnesses are the key factors; along with diet and nutrition, exercise, smoking cessation, socialisation, availability of medical and nursing facilities, and appropriate health policies are other determinants. Efforts to improve health and a disability-free life after the age of 60 need further understanding and research.
-
Challenges and Opportunities in perinatal public health: The utility of perinatal health inequality dashboards in addressing disparities in maternal and neonatal outcomesIntroduction: In clinical settings, digital dashboards display medical data, with the aim of identifying trends and signals. In so doing these contribute towards improving service deliv-ery and care within hospitals. It is not clear whether the utility of perinatal health equity dashboards could be used to identify health inequality trends that could potentially impact on health service delivery, care and public health interventions. This study aims to evaluate the implementation of health inequality dashboards that address disparities in maternal and neonatal outcomes, with a specific focus on identifying key challenges encountered during their deployment and use in healthcare settings. Methods: Three databases, namely Embase, CINAHL, and Medline were searched to identi-fy relevant studies in English Language published between 2010 and 2022. All findings were reported according to PRISMA guidelines for scoping reviews. Results: Of 670 identified articles, only 13 met the inclusion criteria. The study identified three key themes: dashboard functionality, data accuracy, and challenges in collecting health inequality data. Dashboards were used to visualize disparities, with functionalities focusing on specific audiences, contents, and utility. Issues with data completeness, stand-ardization, and challenges in collecting consistent health inequality data, especially from diverse ethnic groups, hindered the accurate tracking of maternal and neonatal disparities. Conclusion: The use of perinatal health inequality dashboards is a critical step forward in optimizing maternal and neonatal care by providing targeted interventions. However, further research is needed to assess their long-term impact on reducing health inequalities, while addressing challenges related to data accuracy, completeness, and standardization to improve their effectiveness.
-
Brown Algae as a valuable substrate for the cost-effective production of poly-γ-glutamic acid for applications in cream formulationsPoly-γ-glutamic acid (γ-PGA) is a carboxylic-acid-rich, bio-derived, water-soluble, edible, hydrating, non-immunogenic polymer produced naturally by several microorganisms. Here, we re-emphasise the ability of Bacillus subtilis natto to naturally produce γ-PGA on whole seaweed, as well as for the yields and chemical properties of the material to be affected by the presence of Mn(2+). Hyaluronic acid (HA) is an extracellular glycosaminoglycan which presents a high concentration of carboxylic acid and hydroxyl groups, being key in fulfilling numerous applications. Currently, there are strong environmental (solvent use), social (non-vegan extraction), and economic factors pushing for the biosynthesis of this material through prokaryotic microorganisms, which is not yet scalable or sustainable. Our study aimed to investigate an innovative raw material which can combine both superior hygroscopicity and UV protection to the cosmetic industry. Comparable hydration effect of commercially available γ-PGA to conventional moisturising agents (HA and glycerol) was observed; however, greater hydration capacity was observed from seaweed-derived γ-PGA. Herewith, successful incorporation of seaweed-derived γ-PGA (0.2–2 w/v%) was achieved for several model cream systems with absorbances reported at 300 and 400 nm. All γ-PGA-based creams displayed shear thinning behaviour as the viscosity decreased, following increasing shear rates. Although the use of commercial γ-PGA within creams did not suggest a significant effect in rheological behaviour, this was confirmed to be a result of the similar molecular weight. Seaweed-derived γ-PGA cream systems did not display any negative effect on model HaCaT keratinocytes by means of in vitro MTT analysis.
-
Experimental study on compression response of additively manufactured lattice structuresThe intricate nature of lattice structures poses challenges for conventional manufacturing approaches, necessitating the adoption of Additive Manufacturing (AM) methods. This work presents design of three novel biomimetic lattice structures namely Modified Schwarz Primitive (MSP), Tetrahedral (TLS) and Octagonal prism with square hole (OPL). Digital Light Processing (DLP) based AM technology was utilized for fabrication and the compressive strength and porosity was evaluated. The results shown that the MSP have the highest porosity of 68.6 % whereas the OPL exhibited the highest compressive strength of 9.63 MPa.
-
Technological advancements and the vision of a meta smart twin cityRecent digital advancements have led the construction industry to reassess its core principles. Critical issues such as construction site impacts, aesthetics, methodologies, and sustainability are under rigorous scrutiny. The challenges hindering the digital transformation of construction remain unclear. Addressing the technical questions of when, where, why, and how the industry is evolving is crucial, especially as digital operations become more prevalent compared to traditional methods. The “digital twin” concept has emerged as a key approach in shaping the industry's future. Integrating Building Information Modelling (BIM) with the Internet of Things (IoT) has enhanced project engagement, though challenges persist. Traditionally, a digital twin represents the construction process and its interactions. But it misses the transactional and experiential aspects that integrate users into the process. Technologies like blockchain and the metaverse, combined with the digital twin, offer insights into the future of construction projects. Municipalities that adopt digital twins and metaverse representations of their commercial activities throughout construction phases are likely to set future standards for societal specifications. As some specifications such as architectural designs should be grounded in the diverse aspirations and experiences sought by citizens. This paper aims to explore the ways digital twins, smart urban environments, blockchain technology, and other reality capture datasets contribute to the vision of digital and physical construction domains. It examines the interaction and convergence of new spatial constructs, highlight the critical role of data acquisition technologies, and present a comprehensive framework for user experience and the future of Meta Smart Twin Cities.
-
Parametric optimisation for 3D printing β-tricalcium phosphate tissue engineering scaffolds using direct ink writingThe quest for optimal bone tissue engineering materials has led to extensive research on tricalcium phosphate (TCP) ceramics, specifically the β-TCP phase, due to its superior biocompatibility and bioresorbability. Ensuring the structural fidelity and accuracy in creating porous architecture is very crucial for β-TCP scaffolds. In this regard, this study explores the critical role of 3D printing parameters such as pressure, nozzle diameter, print speed, and solid loading in determining the dimensional accuracy of β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) scaffolds fabricated through direct ink writing (DIW). Experiments were conducted on a custom-built DIW system based on a four-factor, three-level L9 Taguchi design. The influence of these parameters on dimensional accuracy was evaluated using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Optimal process conditions to print β-TCP were revealed as 3 bar pressure, 0.6 mm nozzle diameter, 5 mm/s print speed, and 55 vol% solid loading, yielding minimal dimensional error. ANOVA results highlighted nozzle diameter and pressure as significant factors, followed by solid loading and print speed. Validation experiments under these optimal conditions achieved a dimensional error of just 1.52 %. Additionally, the scaffold printed under optimal conditions demonstrated a compressive strength of 2.64 MPa.
