Search Results (1,845)

The accurate and non-invasive measurement of moisture content in wood is essential for the preservation of historical and artistic artifacts. This study presents the calibration of a planar Microwave Planar Capacitive Coupled Ring Resonator (MPCCRR) designed to indirectly and non-destructively assess the water content in wood samples. The method relies on analyzing shifts in the resonant frequencies and variations in the transmission parameter |S21| resulting from changes in the material’s dielectric permittivity. After preliminary characterization via parametric simulations (εr = 1–10) and validation with low-permittivity reference materials, the sensor was tested on three wood species (poplar, fir, beech), including measurements at two sensor positions and with different grain orientations. The results demonstrate a monotonic, repeatable response to increasing moisture content with frequency shifts up to ≈220 MHz and normalized sensitivities ranging from 3 to 9 MHz/% water content, depending on species and measurement position. Position 2 showed the greatest sensitivity due to stronger field–sample interaction, while Position 1 provided a quasi-isotropic response with excellent repeatability. Linear regression analyses revealed good correlations between the frequency shifts and the gravimetric water content (R² ≥ 0.85). The MPCCRR sensor therefore proves to be a promising tool for the non-invasive monitoring of wood moisture, which is particularly suitable for the low-moisture range encountered in cultural heritage conservation, with an estimated moisture uncertainty of 0.12–0.35% under controlled laboratory conditions. Full article

The University of Nanking, founded in the early 20th century by an American mission in Nanjing, China, boasts a unique blend of Chinese and Western architectural styles, making it a valuable subject of research. Currently part of Nanjing University’s Gulou Campus, it has been designated a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit by the Chinese government, which has also formulated a protection plan for the historical district of Nanking University. This paper uses this site as a case study, employing methods such as historical document review, on-site investigation, and architectural surveying to reveal a “growth-oriented” coordination mechanism between heritage preservation and development within the context of historical campus expansion. This mechanism involves maintaining the original spatial layout through adaptive reuse, presenting a development model of “new branches sprouting from an old trunk.” The study points out that campus expansion is the root cause of the “new versus old” contradiction in historical campuses, while the need for functional upgrades in school buildings is the driving force behind heritage preservation. Coordinating the development and functional optimization of new and old spaces can effectively enhance the vitality of historical campuses and achieve a balance between campus expansion and heritage preservation. This research provides a practical Chinese solution for the sustainable development of similar historical campuses. Full article

The rapid decline of linguistic diversity, driven by globalization and technological standardization, presents significant challenges for the preservation of endangered languages, many of which lack sufficient parallel corpora for effective machine translation. Conventional neural translation models perform poorly in such contexts, often failing to capture semantic precision, grammatical complexity, and culturally specific nuances. This study addresses these limitations by proposing a hybrid translation framework that combines dictionary-based pre-translation, retrieval-augmented generation, and large language model post-editing. The system is designed to improve translation quality for extremely low-resource languages, with a particular focus on the endangered Paiwan language in Taiwan. In the proposed approach, a handcrafted bilingual dictionary is the first to establish deterministic lexical alignments to generate a symbolically precise intermediate representation. When gaps occur due to missing vocabulary or sparse training data, a retrieval module enriches contextual understanding by dynamically sourcing semantically relevant examples from a vector database. These enriched words are then processed by an instruction-tuned large language model that reorders syntactic structures, inflects verbs appropriately, and resolves lexical ambiguities to produce fluent and culturally coherent translations. The evaluation is conducted on a 250-sentence Paiwan–Mandarin dataset, and the results demonstrate substantial performance gains across key metrics, with cosine similarity increasing from 0.210–0.236 to 0.810–0.846, BLEU scores rising from 1.7–4.4 to 40.8–51.9, and ROUGE-L F1 scores improving from 0.135–0.177 to 0.548–0.632. These results corroborate the effectiveness of the proposed hybrid pipeline in mitigating semantic drift, preserving core meaning, and enhancing linguistic alignment in low-resource settings. Beyond technical performance, the framework contributes to broader efforts in language revitalization and cultural preservation by supporting the transmission of Indigenous knowledge through accurate, contextually grounded, and accessible translations. This research demonstrates that integrating symbolic linguistic resources with retrieval-augmented large language models offers a scalable and efficient solution for endangered language translation and provides a foundation for sustainable digital heritage preservation in multilingual societies. Full article

This paper provides a systematic review of urushiol-based antibacterial coatings for lacquer art applications, focusing on three key dimensions: molecular mechanisms, durability, and safety. Natural lacquer films form a dense three-dimensional network through laccase-catalyzed oxidative cross-linking, endowing them with excellent mechanical properties and corrosion resistance, while the catechol structure in urushiol confers broad-spectrum antibacterial potential. The article elaborates on the synergistic antibacterial mechanisms of urushiol, including covalent reactions with bacterial proteins via quinone intermediates, induction of oxidative stress, and metal ion chelation. It also reveals the dynamic change pattern of coating antibacterial activity over time, characterized by “high initial efficiency- gradual mid-term decline—long-term stabilization,” a process influenced collectively by side-chain unsaturation, degree of curing, and environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and light exposure. From an application perspective, this review examines modification approaches such as silver/titanium dioxide composite systems, structurally regulated sustained-release strategies, and anti-adhesion surface designs, while pointing out current limitations in artistic compatibility, long-term durability, and safety assessment. Particularly in scenarios involving food contact and cultural heritage preservation, migration risks from unreacted urushiol monomers and metal nanoparticles, as well as the inherent sensitization potential of urushiol, remain critical challenges for safe application. Accordingly, this paper proposes the establishment of a holistic research framework covering “material design–process control–performance evaluation” and advocates for the development of functional coating systems with low migration, high biocompatibility, and preserved aesthetic value. Such advances are essential to promote the sustainable development and safe application of urushiol-based antibacterial coatings in fields such as cultural heritage conservation, daily-use utensils, and high-end decorative arts. Full article

Masonry retaining walls constitute an essential component of historic and urban infrastructure in seismic regions; however, their seismic performance remains insufficiently quantified due to material heterogeneity, limited tensile capacity, and complex soil–structure interaction. This study investigates the seismic response of historic stone masonry retaining walls using a finite element-based anisotropic macro-modeling approach. The analysis focuses on the perimeter retaining walls of Emirgan Grove in Istanbul, which represent culturally significant heritage structures constructed from natural limestone and cement–lime mortar. Material properties were defined based on experimental test results and representative values reported in the literature, while composite anisotropic behavior was incorporated into the numerical models. Static loads, earth pressures, and seismic actions were applied in accordance with the Turkish Building Earthquake Code (TBEC-2018) using the equivalent static earthquake load method. Representative wall segments with heights of 2.5 m, 3.5 m, 4.0 m, and 6.30 m were analyzed. The numerical results show that maximum compressive stresses reached approximately 0.48 MPa, remaining well below the allowable limit of 4.50 MPa, while maximum tensile stresses of about 0.28 MPa did not exceed the allowable tensile limit of 1.00 MPa. In contrast, shear stresses locally reached approximately 0.25 MPa, exceeding the allowable shear limit of 0.10 MPa, particularly along the soil–wall interface in taller walls. Sliding stability was satisfied in all cases, whereas overturning and shear behavior governed seismic vulnerability. These findings confirm that wall height is the primary parameter controlling seismic response and demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed framework for preservation-oriented seismic safety assessment of historic masonry retaining walls. Full article

As one of the most representative cultural heritages, traditional Chinese opera is characterized by highly refined symbolic contexts and stylized narrative structures. Nevertheless, the contemporary generation often struggles with its abstract expression and language, leading to declining attendance. In addition, urbanization and digital entertainment have squeezed out its living spaces, increasing demand for more diverse experiences. To address these issues, this study conducts a systematic and thematically categorized review of the literature, exploring how extended reality (XR) reshapes the spatial and experiential representation of opera culture. Drawing upon the reality–virtuality continuum and spatial computing as theoretical foundations, the research investigates the features, workflows, and cultural adaptability of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR), identifying how each modality of XR supports distinct modes of space generation and audience engagement. Through comparative analysis, we propose three XR-based approaches for reinterpreting Chinese opera: AR for theatrical spaces visualization, VR for performative narratives embodiment, and MR for opera cultural elements superposition. Overall, the research clarifies that XR can be used as a comprehensive medium to enhance replicability and user perception, contributing to the preservation and communication of humanity’s traditional culture. Full article

Over recent decades, various projects—especially at the European level—have developed platforms for storing 2D and 3D digital models of cultural heritage. These platforms aim to preserve, organise, and make heritage data accessible for research, education, and public engagement. However, they face challenges due to diverse data formats, increasing user demands, and a lack of standardisation and metadata consistency. Advancements in digital technologies have enabled more efficient systems for acquiring, processing, and preserving cultural heritage data. Three-dimensional digitisation, in particular, supports multidimensional analysis and modernises documentation practices. Despite significant experience in creating 3D data repositories, comprehensive Information Systems for managing the full lifecycle of cultural heritage—especially those that integrate existing platforms—or web-based platforms designed to support collaborative scientific research by integrating data, tools, and computational resources remain limited and are not established at national levels. This paper explores this evolving landscape, highlighting key methodological and technological foundations for future systems. It also addresses open questions, opportunities, limitations, and ongoing challenges, emphasizing the need for semantic-based approaches to integrate fragmented data and foster collaboration between public and private stakeholders. Full article

Yunnan Jiama (paper horse prints), a representative form of intangible cultural heritage in southwest China, is characterized by subtle inter-class differences, complex woodblock textures, and heterogeneous preservation conditions, which collectively pose significant challenges for digital preservation and automatic image classification. To address these challenges and improve the computational analysis of Jiama images, this study proposes an enhanced object detection framework based on YOLOv8 integrated with a Global Attention Mechanism (GAM), referred to as YOLOv8-GAM. In the proposed framework, the GAM module is embedded into the high-level semantic feature extraction and multi-scale feature fusion stages of YOLOv8, thereby strengthening global channel–spatial interactions and improving the representation of discriminative cultural visual features. In addition, image augmentation strategies, including brightness adjustment, salt-and-pepper noise, and Gaussian noise, are employed to simulate real-world image acquisition and degradation conditions, which enhances the robustness of the model. Experiments conducted on a manually annotated Yunnan Jiama image dataset demonstrate that the proposed model achieves a mean average precision (mAP) of 96.5% at an IoU threshold of 0.5 and 82.13% under the mAP@0.5:0.95 metric, with an F1-score of 94.0%, outperforming the baseline YOLOv8 model. These results indicate that incorporating global attention mechanisms into object detection networks can effectively enhance fine-grained classification performance for traditional folk print images, thereby providing a practical and scalable technical solution for the digital preservation and computational analysis of intangible cultural heritage. Full article

Although Greece is a leading olive oil producer, research on olive tourism (OT) remains limited, restricting the development of evidence-based policies and strategies. This study utilises primary data from 55 qualitative interviews conducted with OT visitors across Greece in 2023 to examine the sociodemographic characteristics, visiting behaviours, motivations, and expectations of domestic OT participants. These visitors are primarily mature, highly educated individuals with medium to high income levels. Their main motivations include acquiring specialised knowledge, cultivating a personal interest in olive-related culture, and seeking connections with local and familial heritage. They prefer experiences that highlight the sociocultural and culinary aspects of olives and olive oil, especially those that facilitate the practical application of new knowledge. Interactivity, experimentation, social engagement, and outdoor activities are highly valued. Comparative analysis with OT studies from Spain, Portugal, and Italy reveals similarities in visitor demographics but also identifies notable differences in motivations and expectations. By addressing a significant research gap, these findings offer policymakers, tourism operators, and producers strategic guidance for OT development in Greece, as well as transferable insights useful to other olive-producing countries. The study also demonstrates the potential for well-designed OT initiatives to promote sustainable rural development, preserve cultural and environmental heritage, extend the tourism season, and strengthen local economies. Full article

The preservation of cultural heritage within museum environments requires systematic control and monitoring of indoor microclimatic conditions. Over the past four decades, scientific evidence has established the critical role of environmental parameters, including air temperature, relative humidity, light, and airborne pollutants, in the preventive conservation of artifacts. International standards and national guidelines mandate continuous, non-invasive monitoring protocols that integrate conservation requirements with the architectural and operational constraints of historic buildings. Effective implementation necessitates a multidisciplinary approach balancing artifact preservation, human comfort, and building energy efficiency. Recent international recommendations further promote adaptive approaches wherein microclimate thresholds are calibrated to site-specific “historical climate” conditions, derived from minimum one-year baseline datasets. While essential for long-term conservation management, the design and implementation of such monitoring systems present significant technical and logistical challenges. This study presents a replicable methodological approach wherein preliminary surveys and three short-term monitoring campaigns (duration: 2 to 5 weeks) supported design, sensor selection, and spatial deployment and will allow the validation of a long-term continuous monitoring infrastructure (at least one year). These preliminary investigations enabled the following: (1) identification of priority environmental parameters; (2) optimization of sensor placement relative to exhibition layouts and maintenance protocols; and (3) preliminary assessment of microclimate risks in naturally ventilated spaces in the absence of HVAC systems. Full article

This study examines how the notion of value is defined, recognised, and operationalised within the four main approaches to cultural heritage preservation: the material-based, value-based, living heritage, and historic urban landscape approaches. Positioned within the broader discourse on the evolving understanding of cultural heritage—from fixed, expert-driven interpretations toward more contextual, socially constructed, and participatory perspectives—this research aims to address which value types are recognised, and how and to what extent they are operationalised by applying four main approaches to cultural heritage preservation. The methodology comprises four phases: (1) the identification, search, and selection of academic articles in the Scopus database, (2) sample overlapping and elimination of duplicates to establish a final dataset, (3) bibliometric analysis to determine publishing trends and disciplinary reach, and (4) content analysis to identify, classify, and compare value types across the selected approaches. The results reveal significant variation in how values are represented, as well as notable inconsistency in their direct inclusion in research processes. While cultural, historical, aesthetic, social, and economic values dominate across approaches, only a fraction of studies operationalise values through defined criteria or indicators. The findings highlight the absence of consensus in value interpretation and emphasise the need for more systematic, integrative, and operationalisable frameworks for treating values in the process of cultural heritage preservation. Full article

Cultural tourism (CT) has emerged as a critical driver of destination competitiveness; however, stakeholders struggle to balance heritage preservation, sustainable growth, and visitor management. Current decision making often lacks the practical information required to assess the multi-dimensional impacts of CT and to align strategies with sustainability goals. This paper presents a user-centred digital decision support system (DSS) developed under the European project IMPACTOUR. The methodological contribution is a procedure that uncovers links among strategies, actions, and performance indicators, conditioned on destination characteristics, by leveraging hierarchical multi-criteria analysis to weight sustainability domains. Co-designed with stakeholders, it integrates social and technological components and uses triangulated data to prioritise strategies and evaluate impacts. The visual interface offers a smart dashboard that supports strategic decision making and displays related key performance indicators, enabling stakeholders to monitor outcomes against predefined sustainability objectives. Pilot implementations in several European regions demonstrate the tool’s efficacy in fostering data-driven planning to achieve a balanced approach between tourism and liveability. While the system is scalable, its current limits include regional specificity and data availability. Future work will incorporate AI-driven predictive analytics and adapt the DSS for application in non-European contexts, providing a replicable framework for advancing sustainable tourism policies in culturally rich destinations. Full article

Vanilla planifolia is an endangered orchid of significant commercial relevance, primarily valued for the natural vanillin derived from its cured fruits. However, its global production faces critical threats due to its limited genetic variability and high susceptibility to phytopathogens, particularly vanilla wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. vanillae. This review synthesizes the recent advances in plant biotechnology, evaluating the efficacy of in vitro culture systems, plant growth regulators, and the implementation of semi-automated temporary immersion systems, as compared to traditional semisolid methods. Emphasis is placed on the pivotal role of physical factors, such as LED lighting, and the symbiotic associations with orchid mycorrhizal fungi to enhance plant growth and vigor. By synthesizing advanced in vitro regeneration protocols, this study establishes a strategic guide for the mass production of high-quality disease-free plantlets. Finally, the impact of these biotechnological tools on ex situ conservation at institutions such as the Clavijero Botanical Garden is discussed, aiming to support the sustainability of the vanilla industry and preserve Mexico’s biological heritage. Full article

Quito, recognized as the first UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, holds a vast documentary legacy at constant risk of deterioration due to environmental, biological, and aging factors. Preserving these historical documents demands sustainable and non-invasive approaches. This study presents the first documented investigation in Ecuador on the use of ionizing radiation for the conservation of historical paper materials. Fifteen fragments, naturally detached from deteriorated documents housed in two major heritage repositories, the Biblioteca Nacional Eugenio Espejo and the Biblioteca Fray Ignacio de Quezada, were selected for analysis. Samples were irradiated with a Co-60 gamma source at doses of 4, 6, and 8 kGy at the “Francisco Salgado T.” Irradiation Center. To evaluate potential alterations, pre- and post-irradiation analyses were conducted using surface pH measurements, colorimetry (ΔE from CIELAB coordinates), and FTIR-ATR spectroscopy. The results showed no statistically significant changes in the analyzed parameters, suggesting that gamma irradiation at these doses does not compromise the structural or visual integrity of the paper. This work represents a pioneering step in Ecuador toward integrating scientific methods into cultural heritage preservation, supporting the safe application of ionizing radiation in the conservation of historical documents. Full article

Moisture damage severely compromises the material properties, structural integrity, and decorative layer integrity of historic buildings, presenting a critical technical challenge in architectural heritage conservation. Electromagnetic wave dehumidification technology has garnered attention for its minimal intervention, low cost, and high efficiency, yet its practical engineering applications remain limited. This paper categorizes electromagnetic wave dehumidification devices into two main types based on their active moisture removal capability: “water-blocking type” and “dewatering type”. Research indicates that electromagnetic wave dehumidification devices utilizing electroosmosis principles require precise control of electric field strength (≥40 V/m) and Joule effect, making them more suitable for historic buildings where the material surface carries a net negative charge and low salt content. Among moisture-blocking devices, those neutralizing water molecules perform best during humidity maintenance phases. Devices that primarily alter the structure of water molecules struggle to meet heritage dehumidification requirements. Experimental analysis indicates that external factors like moisture sources and seasonal environments significantly influence technical evaluations. This paper recommends that future research should optimize experimental design, strengthen comparative studies, and explore composite mechanisms to enhance the systematic reliability of electromagnetic wave dehumidification technology in architectural heritage conservation. This research helps to clarify some of the conceptual uncertainties associated with the use of electromagnetic wave dehumidification technology. Furthermore, it proposes a principle-based experimental framework that can be used to guide future experimental designs and the application of this technology in the field of cultural heritage preservation. Full article