Search Results (325)

The role of photogrammetric texturing, understood as a tool to connect information modeling and outputs, jointly oriented toward documentation and dissemination, constitutes the topic of this contribution. Starting from a reality-based survey, an as-built model was developed and applied to the case study of the Fountain of the 99 Cannelle, validated according to the criteria of the Level of Accuracy (LOA) and enriched through a material–chromatic mapping of the surfaces, derived from photogrammetric data. This mapping is intended to make phenomena of decay and traces of intervention immediately legible, while at the same time increasing the informational density of the model. The model was then integrated into real-time visualization environments, in which it can also be explored and interrogated in immersive mode, making it an excellent support for collaborative processes of data management and sharing. In this regard, the results show how the controlled integration of textures within the HBIM workflow makes it possible to produce, in a coordinated manner, outputs for documentation and enhancement, facilitating access to information, including for non-specialist users; however, critical issues remain related to scalability and the complexity of texture management in these environments. Full article

To address the challenges of homogenization and unclear functional hierarchy in pet water fountain design, as well as to meet diverse user needs, reduce costs, and improve efficiency, this study undertakes product design based on comprehensive research and analysis of key design elements that fulfill the practical requirements of both humans and pets. Furthermore, to evaluate and optimize the proposed design scheme, an integrated AHP-improved CRITIC-TOPSIS comprehensive design evaluation model is introduced within the framework of multi-criteria decision theory to assess and refine pet water fountain design solutions. The methodology commences with the application of the AHP to construct a multi-level evaluation index system and determine subjective weights for each index. Subsequently, the improved CRITIC method is integrated to calculate the comprehensive weights of each indicator. The TOPSIS method is then employed to rank and optimize the design schemes. Strategies for further improvement are proposed based on key indicators that are assigned higher weights. The results of the simulation verification experiment and sensitivity analysis indicate that the proposed method achieves high accuracy and reliability in the evaluation of pet water fountain designs. This methodology establishes a rigorous evaluation framework that can be extended to other pet product designs. Full article

As Villanova University students navigate campus life, ghost stories tied to specific buildings, paths, and rituals circulate as grassroots spatial narratives. This article argues that these stories involving haunted halls, underground tunnels, and ritualized practices surrounding seals, arches, and fountains, function as forms of Radical Placemaking, through which students collectively reinterpret, appropriate, and sometimes resist the university’s officially sanctioned spatial order. Drawing on 162 student testimonies collected in 2019, translated into Spanish, and analyzed using topic modeling, co-occurrence mapping, and GIS visualization, the study demonstrates how vernacular stories encode lived experiences, informal knowledge, and alternative claims to campus space. Nine thematic clusters emerge, organized into three narrative domains: supernatural encounters anchored to institutional buildings (including Alumni Hall’s Civil War history, the St. Mary’s nun legend, and Tolentine Hall hauntings), ritual and tradition practices that reinscribe or subvert formal authority (the Corr Chapel arch, the Driscoll Hall seal ritual, and student ceremonies), and hidden-space narratives that imagine infrastructures beyond official visibility (such as underground tunnels linking campus buildings). Analysis of narrative transmission reveals uneven power relations: institutional channels circulate curated traditions aligned with university identity. Peer networks and personal experiences generate counter-mappings that privilege exploration, embodiment, and affect. Villanova’s ghost stories constitute spatial perceptions that enable students to assert belonging, contest institutional narratives, and produce place through collective storytelling within an evolving and hierarchically governed campus landscape. Full article

Tourists’ environmentally responsible behavior (ERB) is a key requirement in the promotion of the sustainable development of tourism destinations. Although extensive studies have explored the antecedents of tourists’ ERB, research within the context of rural tourism remains limited. Addressing this gap and guided by the Stimulus–Organism–Response theory, this study develops an integrated model in which nature relatedness and place attachment serially mediate the effect of the rural tourscape on tourists’ ERB. Based on 398 valid questionnaires collected from Huangling Village in Wuyuan, China—a UNWTO Best Tourism Village—data were analyzed using structural equation modeling. The findings reveal that (1) the ambience and agricultural products dimensions of the rural tourscape have a direct positive impact on tourists’ ERB, and (2) both nature relatedness and place attachment serve as independent mediators between the rural tourscape and tourists’ ERB. Furthermore, there exists a serial mediating pathway of “nature relatedness → place attachment” between them. This study uncovers the complex mechanisms underlying the formation of tourists’ ERB in rural tourism settings. By introducing nature relatedness as a mediator, it offers new insights for both theoretical advancement and the practical management of tourists’ ERB. Full article

This paper focuses on establishing the existence of infinitely many solutions for non-local fractional equations characterized by unbalanced growth and Hardy potentials. We prove that these solutions converge to zero in the $L^{\infty }$-norm, requiring conditions on the nonlinearity only near the origin and dispensing with assumptions at infinity. As far as we are aware, results for non-local fractional $(p,q)$-Laplacian problems with singular coefficients such as Hardy potentials have not been extensively studied. To address this gap, we employ the dual fountain theorem together with the modified functional method. Full article

This research establishes a high-fidelity documentation framework utilizing multi-sensor 3D data to support critical decisions regarding the conservation and preservation of monuments in urban environments. Focus is placed on the Morosini Fountain, Heraklion, Crete, a 17th-century monument facing significant deterioration due to environmental stressors, material-specific decay of limestone and marble, and cumulative historical interventions. Placed within the context of contemporary cultural heritage management, the research establishes a high-fidelity 3D digital representative to support interdisciplinary documentation and a decision-support framework for restoration. The methodology employs handheld structured light scanning for high geometric accuracy with close-range digital photogrammetry to ensure high-fidelity color acquisition. Strategic semantic segmentation of the monument into architectural components—such as lobes, lions, and basins—facilitated large scale dataset management and optimized alignment procedures under challenging urban conditions, including intense direct sunlight and active water flow. Results include the delivery of metrically accurate multi-resolution models and 2D orthographic products. Quantitative pathology mapping successfully identified extensive affected surface areas on specific panels, while multi-scale geometric morphological analysis effectively identified high-complexity surface areas, which were subsequently classified as either intentional artistic form or active decay through expert visual assessment between intentional artistic form and active alveolar erosion or exogenous accretions. The study concludes that this enhanced digital model serves as an indispensable tool for sustainable management, transforming passive records into active predictive simulations. The implementation of multi-sensor 3D data provides the essential evidentiary basis for high-stakes conservation decisions, demonstrating that comprehensive digital recording is vital for the resilience of urban heritage landmarks. Full article

This study investigates the temporal and latitudinal variability of the ionosphere over the Indian longitude region during the intense geomagnetic storm from 1 to 3 June 2025, using GNSS receiver observations and magnetometer recordings, along with space-based measurements from in situ Swarm satellite, COSMIC-2 radio occultation, GUVI/TIMED-derived O/N₂ ratios, and model-derived electric fields. This particular event is relatively new and is characterized by the bifurcated variation with two distinct main phases separated by a short-lived recovery phase. The results revealed distinct features associated with the geomagnetic storm, including positive and negative ionospheric phases, thermospheric compositional changes, and the latitudinal propagation of disturbances. On 1 June, the observed strong positive ionospheric storm was driven by Prompt Penetration Electric Fields (PPEFs) and equatorward neutral winds, which triggered the upliftment of F-region plasma to higher altitudes through the enhanced equatorial fountain effect, leading to an unusually long-lasting Total Electron Content (TEC) enhancement from day to night. The analysis also revealed the distinct latitudinal behaviour, exhibiting the clear poleward extension of the Equatorial Ionization Anomaly (EIA) crest and significant TEC enhancements (~150–200% of the quiet day values) from low to mid latitudes as compared to the equatorial location through an efficient plasma redistribution. Conversely, pronounced negative ionospheric storm effect at almost all latitudinal locations on 2 June confirms complex and unusual storm-time dynamics, with inhibited upward plasma drifts due to the presence of Disturbance Dynamo Electric Fields (DDEFs), while the thermospheric O/N₂ ratio caused an extensive decrease in electron density over the Indian region. Minor negative storm noticed on 3 June coincides with the storm recovery period, reflecting prolonged disturbance dynamo effects and gradual recovery in thermospheric conditions. Overall, the current study highlights the strong sensitivity of the regional ionosphere to prevailing coupled electrodynamic-thermospheric forcing during the June 2025 geomagnetic storm that has not yet been reported for this event over the Indian longitude sector. Moreover, the findings from this study underscore peculiar storm-time behaviour of summer solstice ionosphere over the Indian longitude sector, driven by complex coupled processes which could be incorporated into ionospheric models and forecasting frameworks. Full article

In the rubidium-87 atomic fountain clock, the laser collimating and beam-expanding telescope plays a key role in atomic cooling and manipulation, as well as in realizing the cold-atom fountain. To address the bulkiness of conventional laser collimating and beam-expanding telescopes, which limits system integration and miniaturization, we design and implement a compact laser collimating and beam-expanding telescope. The design employs a Galilean beam-expanding optical path to shorten the optical path length. Combined with optical modeling and optimization, this approach reduces the mechanical length of the telescope by approximately 50%. We present the mechanical structure of a five-degree-of-freedom (5-DOF) adjustment mechanism for the light source and the associated optical elements and specify the corresponding tolerance ranges to ensure their precise alignment and mounting. Based on this 5-DOF adjustment mechanism, we further propose a method for tuning the output beam characteristics, enabling precise and reproducible control of the emitted beam. The experimental results demonstrate that, after adjustment, the divergence angle of the output beam is better than 0.25 mrad, the coaxiality is better than 0.3 mrad, the centroid offset relative to the mechanical axis is less than 0.1 mm, and the output beam diameter is approximately 35 mm. Furthermore, long-term monitoring over 45 days verified the system’s robustness, maintaining fractional power fluctuations within ±1.2% without manual realignment. Compared with the original telescope, all of these beam characteristics are significantly improved. The proposed telescope therefore has broad application prospects in integrated atomic fountain clocks, atomic gravimeters, and cold-atom interferometric gyroscopes. Full article

Sensory mapping in architecture lacks a guiding theoretical model, leaving practitioners without a clear way to relate spatial design to embodied experience. This study introduces a structured methodology that links phenomenological observation with affordance theory and sensory semiotics, framing sensory data within architectural contexts. Fieldwork in fourteen courtyard houses of Damascus had residents trace their movements on simplified floor plans, switching colors as sight, sound, touch, smell and taste became dominant. The analysis reveals that visitors pass through a narrow entry corridor, enter the courtyard, and converge at the central fountain, which emerges as a focal point for multiple senses. Residents consistently trace tactile interactions along the fountain’s stone rim and at raised benches in the liwan (open space). Gustatory (taste-related, food-linked) markers appear along the route from kitchen thresholds toward the fountain, suggesting how food preparation and communal gathering overlap. Using 28 sensory maps and a three-level analytical process, comparison, synthesis, and spatial interpretation, the study produced a unified sensory map of the Damascene courtyard house. This pattern highlights how sequential spatial arrangements shape sensory engagement and suggests conservation strategies that preserve these experiential pathways. Architects and conservators can reinforce welcome gestures at thresholds and design water features and planting schemes that invite lingering. The proposed methodology fills the theoretical gap and offers clear guidelines for crafting spaces that respond to human perception. Full article

This study presents the first evaluation of plastic particle contamination along a complete drinking water supply chain within the distribution system of Milan, Northern Italy. Fourteen grab water samples were collected from various points, including groundwater extraction, post-treatment stages, a public fountain, and ten household taps. Plastic particles were identified using µFTIR spectroscopy and characterized by polymer type, shape, size, and color. Overall, low concentrations of plastic particles were detected, ranging from 0.3 ± 0.5 particles/L in the accumulation tank to an average of 1.9 ± 1.4 particles/L in household tap water, with no significant increase observed along the supply chain. The entire data set was dominated by cellulose particles (76%), as plastics accounted for only 8%. Microplastics (1 µm–1 mm) were the most commonly detected (90%), while the remaining 10% were large microplastics (1–5 mm). Qualitatively, polyester fibers were the most prevalent particles identified. However, greater variability and higher concentrations were found in private residence samples, suggesting that internal plumbing systems may be a primary source of contamination. Estimated human exposure through this supply system, based on a current theoretical model, was minimal compared to global benchmarks. These findings highlight the necessity of integrating private distribution infrastructure into future regulatory frameworks to assist stakeholders in making informed decisions to mitigate potential plastic contamination. Full article

The Potocki family of the Pilawa coat of arms was among the most powerful noble lineages of the former Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth, and its history is closely intertwined with that of Poland, Lithuania, Belarus, and Ukraine. In the late seventeenth century, Feliks Kazimierz Potocki (1630–1702) founded the town of Krystynopol (now Chervonohrad), named in honor of his wife, Krystyna Lubomirska. The residence, passed down through successive generations of the Potocki family, was transformed in the mid-eighteenth century into an impressive Baroque palace-and-garden complex designed by Pierre Ricaudde Tirregaille, becoming a model example of the magnate cultural landscape on the border of present-day Poland and Ukraine. In the centuries that followed, the estate changed owners multiple times, suffered devastation during the world wars, and in the Soviet period housed the Museum of Atheism. Today, the partially restored palace accommodates a small regional museum. Although in the eighteenth century the palace was surrounded by an extensive Italian-French style garden with water canals, ponds, and fountains, the area has since been built over with public-utility buildings. This study presents a concept for the development of the surviving elements of the historical palace park. The project is based on historical analyses, field research, site inspections, interviews with museum staff and town residents, as well as a detailed dendrological inventory including an assessment of tree health. The study area covers 4.71 ha, and the current tree stand is composed mainly of Salix alba, Populus nigra, Populus alba, Betula pendula, Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior, Ulmus laevis, Acer negundo, and Acer pseudoplatanus. Archival sources allowed for the reconstruction of the original layout of the palace-park complex. The aim of the project is therefore to introduce new representative, educational, recreational, social, ecological, and touristic functions to the currently neglected area while respecting its historical heritage. Full article

Galba truncatula acts as an intermediate host for several parasitic flukes of veterinary importance, but a targeted study on its spatial presence as well as the impact of environmental factors in Southeastern Europe has not been conducted. During the summer months of 2017 and 2018, a survey of 191 water bodies in 14 districts in Central, Southern and Western Bulgaria was conducted, with a focus on animal drinking fountains. Each site was assessed for snail presence and characterized by altitude, temperature, precipitation, shade and type of water body. Logistic regression modeling was used to identify the important factors related to the occurrence of snail species. The frequency of habitats found was 29.3%, with no differences observed between the studied districts (p > 0.05). Snails were present across a wide range of altitudes (78–1926 m), annual mean temperature (7.8–14.0 °C) and annual mean precipitation (523–796 mm). The high habitat frequencies were recorded in streams (60.0%) and on the banks on small rivers (50.0%). The presence of snails in the two studied types of fountains (without or with a concrete platform) was 24.1% and 17.2%, respectively, with no significant difference between them (p > 0.05). Regression analysis revealed temperature, shade, and type of water body as factors that could significantly influence the spatial presence of G. truncatula. The findings demonstrate the ecological adaptability of G. truncatula and highlight its presence in habitats with high potential for contact with domestic and wild ruminants. This information fills a regional knowledge gap and can support risk assessment and control measures for fluke-borne diseases in livestock and wildlife. Full article

In this study, we investigated the presence and diversity of FLA in 62 environmental samples collected across Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain including agricultural and playground soils, and on double treated water from public refrigerated fountains. Amoebae were isolated by culturing processed samples onto 2% Non-Nutrient Agar plates (NNA) which were checked daily for further processing up to molecular characterization. In this case, two approaches for molecular identification were assessed: direct multiplex qPCR targeting four potentially pathogenic FLA (Acanthamoeba spp., Vermamoeba vermiformis, Naegleria fowleri, and Balamuthia mandrillaris) DNA, and culture-based isolation followed by standard PCR and sequence analysis. Regarding qPCR results, 72.6% (45/62) of the samples were positive for at least one FLA, with V. vermiformis (37/62) and Acanthamoeba spp. (34/62) being the most frequent. Moreover, B. mandrillaris was detected for the first time in the Canary Islands in 6 out of 62 samples. Results from standard PCR from cultured isolates confirmed the presence of Acanthamoeba (mainly genotype T4) and Vermamoeba and also allowed the identification of Vahlkampfia and Vannella genera, as well as the genus Rhogostoma—its first report in the Canary Islands. Thermotolerance and osmotolerance assays were performed on Acanthamoeba spp. and, innovatively, on V. vermiformis isolates. Both were capable of surviving at 37 °C and during incubation with 0.5 M mannitol, suggesting potential pathogenicity. However, growth was significantly impaired under harsher conditions (42 °C and 1 M mannitol). These findings underscore the widespread occurrence of FLA in public and agricultural environments in Tenerife and highlight their potential risk to public health. Their ability to act as carriers of pathogenic bacteria/viruses further reinforces the need for routine surveillance and preventive measures in the environment. Full article

Background: Childhood obesity and being overweight represent a global public health challenge; the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) and ultra-processed foods (UPFs) contributes to this problem. In Mexico, public health policies have been implemented to improve school food environments. Objective: To assess the school food environment before the implementation of the guidelines for the preparation, distribution, and sale of food and beverages (SFGs) in three primary schools in Mexico City. Methods: A cross-sectional mixed method study was conducted, including structured non-participatory observation of selling points outside and inside of schools, and availability of drinking fountains and lunchboxes contents. A food waste audit assessment was performed to identify the most frequently consumed products, main ingredients, front-of-package labels, and colorants. Additionally, 23 semi-structured interviews were conducted with school authorities, teachers, and food vendors. Results: SSBs and UPFs selling points were observed outside and inside in public schools, while in private schools, only inside, with use of delivery food apps. Public schools lacked functional drinking fountains. A total of 345 food waste items were collected across the schools, of which 46.3% were SSBs and 53.7% were UPFs. The main ingredient was sugar (15.6%), the principal front-of-package was excess sugar (37.5%), and the most frequently used colorants were red 40 (25.1%). Interview participants reported awareness of the SFGs; however, they identified barriers such as resistance from parents and students and the economic dependence of school cooperatives on UPFs sales. Conclusions: These findings highlight structural and economic challenges for the effective implementation of public policies promoting healthier school food environments. Full article

In this paper, we propose a two-way hybrid satellite–terrestrial relay scheme employing Fountain codes (FCs). In the proposed model, a satellite and a ground user exchange data through a group of terrestrial relay stations, in the presence of an eavesdropper. In the first phase, the satellite and the ground user simultaneously transmit their encoded packets to the relay stations. The relay stations then apply a successive interference cancelation (SIC) technique to decode the received packets. To reduce the quality of the eavesdropping links, a cooperative jammer is employed to transmit jamming signals toward the eavesdropper during the first phase. Next, one of the relay stations which can successfully decode the encoded packets from both the satellite and the ground user is selected for data forwarding, by using a partial relay selection method. Then, this selected relay performs an XOR operation on the two encoded packets, and then broadcasts the XOR-ed packet to both the satellite and the user in the second phase. We derive exact closed-form expressions of outage probability (OP), system outage probability (SOP), intercept probability (IP), and system intercept probability (SIP), and realize simulations to validate these expressions. This paper also studies the trade-off between OP (SOP) and IP (SIP), as well as the impact of various system parameters on the performance of the proposed scheme. Full article