Optimization of the internal structure of 3D-printed components for architectural restoration

In recent years, 3D printing technology has assumed an important role in advanced construction processes across various engineering fields. Among these, the application to the architectural restoration of historic structures is particularly fascinating. The ability to precisely reproduce the shape and surface details of complex elements, combined with the availability of a wide range of printing materials, makes 3D printing technology competitive compared to traditional techniques. In this context, the internal volume structure of 3D printed elements represents an additional design parameter to consider for enhancing interventions in terms of reducing the required material, and thus, lowering costs and environmental impact. The paper presents the outcomes of experimental tests and numerical analyses conducted on plates, which represent portions of more complex elements produced by using Additive Manufacturing (AM) technology. These plates feature various internal configurations (such as reticular and rhomboidal patterns) derived from a mono-objective design optimization process. The experimental tests aim to analyze the influence of the configuration and the pattern on the behavior of printed samples. Additionally, the paper discusses insights derived from both theoretical models and Finite Element analyses, providing a clearer understanding of the experimental results

Optimization of the internal structure of 3D-printed components for architectural restoration

In recent years, 3D printing technology has assumed an important role in advanced construction processes across various engineering fields. Among these, the application to the architectural restoration of historic structures is particularly fascinating. The ability to precisely reproduce the shape and surface details of complex elements, combined with the availability of a wide range of printing materials, makes 3D printing technology competitive compared to traditional techniques. In this context, the internal volume structure of 3D printed elements represents an additional design parameter to consider for enhancing interventions in terms of reducing the required material, and thus, lowering costs and environmental impact. The paper presents the outcomes of experimental tests and numerical analyses conducted on plates, which represent portions of more complex elements produced by using Additive Manufacturing (AM) technology. These plates feature various internal configurations (such as reticular and rhomboidal patterns) derived from a mono-objective design optimization process. The experimental tests aim to analyze the influence of the configuration and the pattern on the behavior of printed samples. Additionally, the paper discusses insights derived from both theoretical models and Finite Element analyses, providing a clearer understanding of the experimental results

NF-Y loss triggers p53 stabilization and apoptosis in HPV18-positive cells by affecting E6 transcription

The expression of the high risk HPV18 E6 and E7 oncogenic proteins induces the transformation of epithelial cells, through the disruption of p53 and Rb function. The binding of cellular transcription factors to cis-regulatory elements in the viral Upstream Regulatory Region (URR) stimulates E6/E7 transcription. Here, we demonstrate that the CCAAT-transcription factor NF-Y binds to a non-canonical motif within the URR and activates viral gene expression. In addition, NF-Y indirectly up-regulates HPV18 transcription through the transactivation of multiple cellular transcription factors. NFYA depletion inhibits the expression of E6 and E7 genes and re-establishes functional p53. The activation of p53 target genes in turn leads to apoptotic cell death. Finally, we show that NF-YA loss sensitizes HPV18-positive cells toward the DNA damaging agent Doxorubicin, via p53-mediated transcriptional response

Holistic performance assessment of gridshells: Methodological framework and applications to steel gridshells

Gridshells are a paradigmatic example of the intricate concept and analysis of building structures. Their design should simultaneously take into account different goals and meet final performances, by referring to multiple disciplinary competences such as the ones of architects, engineers, builders, and experts in mathematics and computer graphics. The present study provides a deep insight into a new framework for the holistic performance assessment of gridshells. The overall performance is quantitatively expressed as the linear combination of three partial metrics, referring to structural response, buildability and sustainability. Each partial metric combines multiple goal metrics, some defined in the current state of the art, others proposed by the Authors. The proposed method is tested with reference to three gridshells with their spring line partially unconstrained, and to their fully-constrained counterparts. This application is intended to shed light on the scarcely investigated mechanical behaviour of freeedge gridshells, and to be inspirational for future proposals of design/optimization solutions within the newborn FreeGrid international benchmark