Search Results (334)

This research introduces an automated 3D virtual reconstruction system tailored for architectural heritage (AH) applications, contributing to the ongoing paradigm shift from traditional CAD-based workflows to artificial intelligence-driven methodologies. It reviews recent advancements in machine learning and deep learning—particularly neural radiance fields (NeRFs) and its successor, Gaussian splatting (GS)—as state-of-the-art techniques in the domain. The study advocates for replacing point cloud data in heritage building information modeling workflows with image-based inputs, proposing a novel “photo-to-BIM” pipeline. A proof-of-concept system is presented, capable of processing photographs or video footage of ancient ruins—specifically, Romanesque–Mudéjar churches—to automatically generate 3D mesh reconstructions. The system’s performance is assessed using both objective metrics and subjective evaluations of mesh quality. The results confirm the feasibility and promise of image-based reconstruction as a viable alternative to conventional methods. The study successfully developed a system for automated 3D mesh reconstruction of AH from images. It applied GS and Mip-splatting for NeRFs, proving superior in noise reduction for subsequent mesh extraction via surface-aligned Gaussian splatting for efficient 3D mesh reconstruction. This photo-to-mesh pipeline signifies a viable step towards HBIM. Full article

Molds readily grow on wet books, documents, and other library materials where they ruin them chemically, mechanically, and aesthetically. Poor maintenance of libraries, failures of Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems, roof leaks, and storm damage leading to flooding can all result in accelerated fungal growth. Moreover, when fungal spores are present at high concentrations in the air, they can be linked to severe respiratory conditions and possibly to other adverse health effects in humans. Climate change and the accompanying storms and floods are making the dual potential of fungi to biodegrade library holdings and harm human health more common. This essay is intended for microbiologists without much background in mycology who are called in to help librarians who are dealing with mold outbreaks in libraries. Our goal is to demystify aspects of fungal taxonomy, morphology, and nomenclature while also recommending guidelines for minimizing mold contamination in library collections. Full article

The existence of echoes in an acoustic event can ruin the capture of a spoken message and the perception of a piece of music. Likewise, in the performers’ area, clear hearing is essential for the coordination and execution of the ensemble. Bullrings are buildings with a circular plan in which echo-encouraging focalisations can occur. Since bullrings lack a roof, the density of reflections is lower than that in a closed area, and therefore strong isolated reflections perceived by the audience as an echo can be created. In this work, calculations of the echo parameter (Echo Criterion EK) and inspection of impulse responses and energy decay curves are obtained in an on-site measurement campaign in the audience zones and in arena areas where the EK parameter exceeds the thresholds. To this end, four bullrings very emblematic of the Iberian Peninsula together with a very prominent Roman amphitheatre in a relatively good state of conservation in the Roman province of Hispania comprise the study cases. Experimental results of the EK parameter and from acoustic simulation in two of the bullrings present good concordance and show that there is no echo for music in any of the venues in the spectator zones and that the most critical area is when source and receiver are both in the arena, where even double and triple echoes appear. Full article

This article analyzes the significance of the ruins and remnants of the Soviet Army in Borne Sulinowo, a former secret Soviet military base in Western Pomerania (Poland), as a source of inspiration for performance artists. This study draws from a variety of theoretical frameworks, including performance art theory, new materialism, and the thing theory. Additionally, it draws from the ideas of Carl Lavery, Richard Gough, Ann Laura Stoler, and Georg Simmel. This text delves into the notion that the transient character of performance art mirrors the fleeting nature of power, particularly in the context of the dissolution of the Soviet regime. Following the Polish reacquisition of the site in the early 1990s, artists such as Władysław Kaźmierczak and Brian Connolly transformed found objects and the decaying environment into performance art. This article analyzes performances such as Kaźmierczak’s кoнец фильма (The End of the Movie) and Connolly’s Frieze Frame. It discusses how these works captured the emotional and intellectual responses to the remnants of military occupation. The performances demonstrate the interplay between decay, memory, and historical consciousness, employing the ruins as a medium for reflecting on the collapse of Soviet influence in Poland and the shifting geopolitical landscape. Full article

Injury or fear of injury can cause stress for everyone. This is especially true for dancers, whose careers can be ruined by a serious injury. Stress or various psychological problems can play a role in the development of injury. Our research aims to explore the psychosocial patterns associated with injuries among Hungarian professional folk dancers. A cross-sectional study was carried out with 96 professional dancers (47.9% male, 52.1% female, mean age 29.9 years). Data was collected through an online questionnaire survey. Among psychological factors, perceived stress (using the Perceived Stress Scale), burnout (using the Athletic Burnout Questionnaire), coping skills (using the Athletic Coping Skills Inventory), relationship with the leader (using the Coaching Behaviour Questionnaire) and perceived social support (using the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support) were examined among injured and non-injured dancers. The two groups were compared along psychological subscales using Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) followed by a post hoc ANOVA and Mann–Whitney test regarding social support. Our results showed a significant correlation between psychosocial factors and injuries sustained during the study period. Positive correlation was found between injuries and perceived stress (p < 0.001) and burnout (reduced sense of accomplishment p = 0.021; dance devaluation p < 0.001). Factors reflecting dancer’s behavior and coping skills also correlated with injuries, such as a decrease in coachability (p = 0.007), less concern (p = 0.029), and negative reactions to the leader’s behavior (p = 0.019). In addition, perceived social support from family also negatively correlates with injury (p = 0.019). Our findings suggest a multidirectional relationship between physical injuries and the mental state of dancers. Further investigation of the causal relationships is recommended, with the aim of using psychosocial support tools during the prevention and treatment of injuries by the professionals dealing with dance artists. It is also recommended to investigate whether individual psychological factors are directly related to injuries or interact with each other. It would also be useful to introduce prevention programs that help dancers manage their emotions related to injuries. Full article

Human trafficking, a grave violation of human rights, frequently intersects with financial crimes, notably identity theft and coercive debt accumulation. This creates complex challenges for victims, survivors, and law enforcement. Victims of human trafficking are often coerced and/or threatened into committing various forms of crime, referred to as “forced criminality.” In recent years, this trend of criminality has moved from violent crimes to financial crimes and fraud, including identity theft, synthetic identity fraud, and serving as money mules. This phenomenon, termed “forced fraud”, exacerbates the already severe trauma experienced by victims (referred to as both victims and survivors throughout, consistent with trauma-informed terminology) trapping them in a cycle of financial instability and legal complications. Traffickers often coerce their victims into opening credit lines, taking out loans, or committing fraud all in their own names, leading to ruined credit histories and insurmountable debt. These financial burdens make it extremely difficult for survivors to rebuild their lives post-trafficking. This paper explores the mechanisms of forced fraud, its impact on survivors, and the necessary legislative and financial interventions to support survivors. By examining first-hand accounts and social and policy efforts from a range of sources, this paper highlights the urgent need for comprehensive support systems that address both the immediate and long-term financial repercussions of human trafficking. Full article

The “Jiugao 酒誥” chapter of the Shangshu 尚書 is a proclamation on wine ethics, ordered by the Duke of Zhou for Kangshu to disseminate among the people. It marks the earliest system of laws and regulations concerning wine usage in Chinese history. In this chapter, the Duke of Zhou analyzed drinking from the perspectives of ethical philosophy and political dynamics, closely associating it with ethical codes, moral values, and political order. He criticized King Zhou of Shang for “drunkenness leading to national ruin” and detailed three ethical codes to regulate drinking practices. The Duke of Zhou established the ethical foundation of the Western Zhou Dynasty, incorporating the theory of wine virtue, and constructed its comprehensive political order. This exerted a profoundly lasting impact on Confucius and later Confucian scholars concerning the mandate of heaven and political thought, forming the basis of China’s political and cultural ethos for millennia. Full article

Dikili Tash is a Neolithic settlement that lies next to the ruins of the ancient city of Philippi on the north-eastern part of Greece. A recent archaeological excavation has unearthed charred grapevine pips and pressings together with two-handed clay cups, jugs, and jars that date to 4300 BC. The majority of the pips were found to be Vitis vinifera ssp. sylvestris. Natural populations of this species have been localized in the valley surrounding Dikili Tash and also on Mt Pangaion and Mt Lekani, which flank the valley. Fifty-one samples from these modern populations have been analyzed using microsatellites on twenty microsatellite loci, and a dendrogram has been constructed showing the genetic closeness of the samples analyzed. Cuttings from all the vines analyzed are currently rooted and grown in the Hellenic Agricultural Organization—DIMITRA (ELGO-DIMITRA) greenhouse facilities in Lykovryssi (Athens) with the aim to, eventually, be transplanted in the grapevine, thus establishing the first V. sylvestris ex situ conservation site in Greece. Full article

Geosciences today play a vital societal role beyond their traditional extractive functions, offering innovative approaches to disseminate knowledge that supports local problem solving and climate resilience. UNESCO Global Geoparks have emerged as strategic platforms for promoting sustainable geoscientific values such as geodiversity, geoeducation, geoconservation, and geoethics. Within the Volcán del Ruiz Geopark Project (VRGP), an effusive andesitic monogenetic volcanic field contains both volcanological and industrial geoheritage. Using Brilha’s evaluation framework, this study assessed eight volcanic features and one industrial site, identifying La Capilla volcano and the Cementos Caldas ruins as having the highest scientific, educational, and touristic value. A structured georoute was proposed, integrating interpretive strategies to enhance public engagement with geodiversity, spatial awareness, and volcanic processes. The success of such initiatives depends on active community participation and interinstitutional collaboration to ensure the appropriation and operationalization of geoscientific knowledge. The VRGP stands out as a promising territorial strategy for anchoring geoeducation and geotourism within broader sustainability and community empowerment goals. Full article

Facing the challenges of temperature gradient-induced soil cracking and delamination in earthen ruins like Gaochang Ancient City, this study develops a novel phase change microcapsule (MPCM) grouting material designed for dual functionality: structural reinforcement and thermal regulation. We systematically evaluated its performance in both aspects. Experimental results demonstrated excellent thermal cycling stability. For instance, the maximum mass loss was only 0.65% after 200 cycles, indicating its reliability for long-term service. Evaluation showed that the material effectively provides structural strength compatible with the original soil. With 15% MPCM content, the compressive strength reached 1.39 MPa. Simultaneously, it effectively mitigates temperature fluctuations, significantly regulating temperature gradients. The MPCM-15 sample, for example, reduced the heating rate by 9.7 °C/h and peak temperature by 6.0 °C compared to the control group. Field application further validated its effectiveness in both restoring structural integrity by filling cracks and significantly reducing temperature gradient effects within the site. This dual-function MPCM grouting offers a promising new technical approach for the sustainable preservation of earthen cultural heritage. Full article

The Great Wall of China, one of the nation’s most remarkable military defense structures, possesses a history spanning several millennia and is associated with numerous heritage sites. Today, it stands as a world-renowned cultural heritage asset. Vegetation growing on the ruins of the Great Wall can exert both detrimental and protective effects on the structure. Indiscriminate removal of such vegetation may lead to unintended damage to the heritage site. Drawing on the theory of “evaluative conservation”, this study integrates the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and the Delphi method to develop a resistance assessment system for vegetation removal. A case study was conducted on 40 plant species or categories located along the Ming-era Guangwu section of the Great Wall, with spatial zoning analysis applied to inform removal strategies. The results reveal the structure, key factors, and classification criteria of the resistance evaluation system. Corresponding management recommendations are proposed, including strategies such as “preservation”, “partial preservation”, “removal”, and “subsequent removal and management”. This research provides a foundational reference for the conservation and restoration of the Great Wall heritage, and for the management of associated vegetation. Full article

A fragment of mortar from the pedestal ruin belonging to the central statue in Forum Vetus, Ulpia Traiana archaeological site, Romania, was investigated. The ruin is well-documented and unrestored, and radiocarbon dating was deemed suitable to determine its moment of construction. Preliminary analyses were used to establish the composition of the material and the sources of carbon-14, selecting the most reliable fraction for radiocarbon dating by the AMS method. Although sampling was carried out according to the recommendations, a younger apparent age was obtained than that expected. This is in fact a concrete-like mortar according to the analyses, and the phenomenon of delayed hardening of mortar in masonry was detected. The difference between the real and apparent ages quantifies this phenomenon. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry with thermogravimetric analysis, and gamma spectrometry were used. Pyrogenic calcium carbonate and carbonates from calcium silicate/calcium aluminate hydrates were the only forms present in mini-nodules/lumps. The reactivation of binder calcite or geogenic calcite, the other problems encountered when dating mortars, were not spotted. This case study highlights the limitations of the radiocarbon dating method, and we introduce gamma spectrometry as a technique for additional investigations into direct exposure to the environment or the origins of raw materials. Full article

High-density cities have obvious characteristics of compact urban spatial form and intensive land use in terms of spatial environment, and have always been a topic of academic focus. As a typical coastal historical district, the Macau Peninsula pier district (mainly the Macau Inner Harbour) has a high building density and a low average street width, forming a vertical coastline development model that directly converses with the ocean. This area is adjacent to Macau’s World Heritage Site and directly related to the Marine trade functions. The distribution pattern of cultural heritage linked by the ocean has strengthened Macau’s unique positioning as a node city on the Maritime Silk Road. This text is based on the theory of urban development, integrates spatial syntax and POI analysis techniques, and combines the theories of waterfront regeneration, high-density urban form and post-industrial urbanism to integrate and deepen the theoretical framework, and conduct a systematic study on the urban spatial characteristics of the coastal area of the Macau Peninsula. This study found that (1) Catering and shopping facilities present a dual agglomeration mechanism of “tourism-driven + commercial core”, with Avenida de Almeida Ribeiro as the main axis and radiating to the Ruins of St. Paul’s and Praça de Ponte e Horta, respectively. Historical blocks and tourist hotspots clearly guide the spatial center of gravity. (2) Residential and life service facilities are highly coupled, reflecting the spatial logic of “work-residence integration-service coordination”. The distribution of life service facilities basically overlaps with the high-density residential area, forming an obvious “living circle + community unit” structure with clear spatial boundaries. (3) Commercial and transportation facilities form a “functional axis belt” organizational structure along the main road, with the Rua das Lorchas—Rua do Almirante Sérgio axis as the skeleton, constructing a “functional transmission chain”. (4) The spatial system of the Macau Peninsula pier district has transformed from a single center to a multi-node, network-linked structure. Its internal spatial differentiation is not only constrained by traditional land use functions but is also driven by complex factors such as tourism economy, residential migration, historical protection, and infrastructure accessibility. (5) Through the analysis of space syntax, it is found that the core integration of the Macau Peninsula pier district is concentrated near Pier 16 and the northern area. The two main roads have good accessibility for motor vehicle travel, and the northern area of the Macau Peninsula pier district has good accessibility for long and short-distance walking. Full article

This study investigates the subsurface remains of Jaundole Castle, a 14th-century medieval fortress located on Dole Island near Riga, Latvia. The castle, which has left no visible surface ruins, is known only from historical documents and maps. To assess whether its buried remains could be detected, a non-invasive ground penetrating radar (GPR) survey was carried out across five targeted grids. The results revealed multiple linear and circular anomalies consistent with historical records of the castle’s layout, including possible foundations of walls and towers. These findings demonstrate that GPR, when combined with historical map and image analysis, can effectively locate, and delineate lost architectural features. The integration of historical sources and geophysical data provides a replicable model for the investigation of other completely buried archaeological sites. This work contributes to the development of non-destructive prospection strategies and supports the planning of future archaeological excavations and conservation actions. Full article

Viewing high-redshift sources at near-opposite directions on the sky can ensure, using light-travel-time arguments, acausality between their emitted photons. One utility would be true random-number generation through sensing these via two independent telescopes that each flip a switch based on the latest-arrived colours; for example, to autonomously control a quantum-mechanical (QM) experiment. Although demonstrated with distant quasars, those were not fully acausal pairs, which are restricted when simultaneously viewed from the ground at any single observatory. In optical light, such faint sources also require a large telescope aperture to avoid sampling assumptions when imaged at fast camera framerates: unsensed intrinsic correlations between them or equivalently correlated noise may ruin the expectation of pure randomness. One such case that could spoil a QM test is considered. Based on that, the allowed geometries and instrumental limits are modelled for any two ground-based sites, and their data are simulated. For comparison, an analysis of photometry from the Gemini twin 8 m telescopes is presented using the archival data of well-separated bright stars obtained with the instruments ‘Alopeke (on Gemini North in Hawai’i) and Zorro (on Gemini-South in Chile) simultaneously in two bands (centred at $562\mathrm{nm}$ and $832\mathrm{nm}$) with 17 Hz framerate. No flux correlation is found; these results were used to calibrate an analytic model predicting where a search with a signal-to-noise over 50 at 50 Hz can be made using the same instrumentation. Finally, the software PDQ (Predict Different Quasars) is presented, which searches a large catalogue of known quasars, reporting those with a brightness and visibility suitable to verify acausal, uncorrelated photons at these limits. Full article