State Of Conservation Research Articles

An Integrated Petrographic, Geomatic and Geophysical Approach for the Characterization of the Carbonate Rocks of the Calcari di Cagliari Formation

Non-invasive techniques, such as close-range photogrammetry (CRP) and 3D ultrasonic tomography complemented with optical and scanning electron microscopy and mercury porosimetry, were applied to characterize the carbonate rock samples of the Calcari di Cagliari formation. The integrated approach started with the computation of high-resolution 3D models of the carbonate samples using the CRP technique to produce 3D high-resolution models texturized both with natural colors and intensity. Starting from the 3D models from previous techniques, a 3D ultrasonic tomography on each rock sample was accurately planned and carried out in order to detect the elastic properties of such rocks and relate them to textural heterogeneity or internal defects. The results indicate that the relationship between longitudinal velocity and rock properties is complex even in the same carbonate formation. Understanding the relationship between the geomatic and geophysical responses in the investigated rock properties, such as textural characteristics and especially structure and geometry of pores, type of pores, tortuosity and cementing material, is important for many practical applications and especially in the diagnostic process of the conservation state of monumental structures. The integration of the above non-invasive techniques complemented by petrographical–petrophysical data proved to be a powerful method to associate each lithotype with a different susceptibility to degradation. The results presented in this paper demonstrate that the proposed integrated use of complementary methodologies would guarantee the reproducibility of the measurements both at the laboratory and field scale for the monitoring in time of the rock condition while giving a useful contribution in making decisions on an appropriate remedial strategy.

3D Modelling Approach to Enhance the Characterization of a Bronze Age Nuragic Site

Megalithism in Sardinia (Italy) had its highest expression during the Bronze Age with the creation of monumental complexes known as Nuraghes. These unique monuments have recently been the subject of in-depth investigations for their potential to be recognized as World Heritage Sites (by UNESCO). The main purpose of our research was to make a contribution to obtain a more in-depth characterization of these monuments by testing a 3D model of a complex Nuraghe, integrated with an analysis of the geolithological context. This work first focused on the geological and typological investigation of the materials used in its construction, which was then compared with the geolithological characteristics of the region. A survey of the outcropping remains was carried out by means of Structure-from-Motion Multi-View Stereo (SfM-MVS) photogrammetry with UAV ground and aerial acquisition using APS-C photo sensors, georeferenced with an RTK-GNSS ground survey. The level of accuracy of our digital models shows the potential of the proposed method, giving accurate and geometrically consistent 3D reconstructions in terms of georeferencing error, shape and surface. The survey method allows for the virtualization of the current state of conservation of the Nuraghe, giving a solid basis to set up further (future) archaeological excavations and to contribute to knowledge on the architecture of the structures. This study also provides useful information on the nature and origin of the construction materials and proposes a hypothesis on the original dimensions of the monument, which is often a topic of debate in the world of archaeology.

Uranium-zirconium hydride nuclear fuel performance in the NaK-cooled MARVEL microreactor

The Microreactor Applications Research Validation and EvaLuation (MARVEL) Project is producing a high temperature NaK-cooled nuclear reactor test bed at the Idaho National Laboratory to ultimately improve integration of microreactors to end-user applications. This ambitious effort seeks to design, authorize, construct, test, and operate the reactor within five years. The computational software package chosen for high fidelity fuel performance modeling, BISON, has been upgraded to model the performance of the MARVEL reactor's selected fuel system: 304 stainless steel-clad U-ZrHx. In this manuscript, we begin by describing the MARVEL fuel element. The known properties and relationships of the fuel element constituents are recapitulated from data available in the literature. These historical relationships assume a particular U-ZrH microstructure which previously was not well-understood; therefore, the fuel's microstructure is experimentally confirmed using electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. This information is then used to analyze the thermomechanical performance of the MARVEL fuel element during a hypothetical extreme accident scenario (a loss of flow accident during a loss of coolant pressure accident) using the nuclear fuel performance code BISON. The analysis shows that the primary phenomenon which could compromise the structural integrity of the MARVEL fuel element is the same as for TRIGA reactors: high temperature internal gas overpressurization-induced rupture of the cladding arising from excessive hoop stresses. Despite modeling the most severe MARVEL accident scenario, the highest anticipated temperature in the fuel, about 718 °C, results in hoop stresses of less than 10 MPa. Based on this analysis, a conservative steady state fuel meat temperature limit of 900 °C precludes cladding damage. The newly incorporated fuel performance simulation capabilities developed in this work may also be extended to model this fuel system under other conditions or reactors.

Beyond the Beach: Multi-Parameter Interpretation of Shore Deterioration in a Caribbean Reef System

Throughout the Caribbean region, coastal areas are of vital importance for national incomes from the tourism industry. However, accelerated coastal development has impacted the coastal ecosystems, including the beaches, and deterioration of the shore results from cumulative impacts on both marine and coastal ecosystems. It is essential to identify the areas that need special attention for targeted management plans and actions, especially in areas with high anthropogenic pressure. This research proposes an integrated assessment of the conservation state of shore and coastal ecosystems in the Puerto Morelos National Reef Park (PNAPM) in the Mexican Caribbean, through the spatial monitoring of key parameters. A Geographic Information System (GIS) was employed to analyze the land use on the shore, foredune condition, morphological characteristics of the beaches, shoreline evolution, and the condition of coral reefs and seagrass meadows. The analysis identified the most critical areas in relation to shore deterioration and priority areas for the preservation of ecosystems. The spatial data obtained for the PNAPM can serve as a basis for ongoing shore monitoring, and targeted management actions through the designation of areas that require either preservation or ecosystem restoration practices. This methodology can be applied to other reef systems in the Caribbean.

Regulating campus speech: Student ideology and support for free speech in a conservative university system

ABSTRACT What are undergraduate students’ preferences and knowledge regarding free speech on college campuses? Using an original survey of college students in a conservative Upper-Midwestern state, we gather responses across six key areas of speech controversy. Student ideology predictably and significantly divides student support for speech regulation. Compared to liberals, conservative students are more supportive of free expression in the context of potential bias incidents, such as hate speech. Meanwhile, liberal students are more supportive where traditional values are potentially challenged, such as unpatriotic speech. We further find that what students believe about the legal ability to punish or prevent speech on campus mostly aligns with their preferences. However, regardless of ideology, our respondents also show broad support for hate speech regulation, and most believe incorrectly that public institutions are legally empowered to punish or prevent it. The results of this analysis are informative for the growing debate about campus life involving students, faculty, administrators, and spectators alike.

Охрана озера Байкал как объекта всемирного природного наследия в условиях изменяющегося климата

The article examines the problem of improving the normative and organizational princi-ples of protection of World Natural Heritage properties from threats caused by global climate change. The importance of the topic in the light of the implementation of the order of the Pres-ident of the Russian Federation on the formation of regional adaptation plans to the effects of climate change is shown. The international legal basis of climate regulation is given, typical threats to the state of unique natural objects determined by climate change are revealed. The documents of the World Heritage protection system in the sphere of adaptation to the conse-quences of global climate change are analyzed, their most important provisions are summa-rized. It is noted that there are climatic risks to the state of conservation of Lake Baikal, as well as a clear lack of reflection of this topic in environmental legal studies. Measures are proposed to improve environmental legislation in terms of enshrining the peculiarities of protection of World Natural Heritage properties and taking into account climate change issues in the man-agement of Lake Baikal as a World Heritage property. A proposal is made to amend the Federal Law "On Protected Areas" in terms of the need to prepare management plans for World Natural Heritage properties, including adaptation to the changing climate.

Notes on the tourist exploitation of archaeological sites: A case of study of best practices applied to rural heritage in Spain

Beyond the mere promotion and diffusion of information, the dissemination of heritage sites also requires heightening social awareness of their historical and cultural value, which in turn intrinsically implies a greater appreciation and protection of this heritage by population groups close to it. Effective dissemination involves considering a number of values, actions and criteria. Heritage sites have an intrinsic value as an expression of the history and culture of a community, and it is therefore essential to respect and conserve their authenticity and originality. Dissemination may take the form of a number of actions, such as the creation of educational materials, the organisation of cultural events, guided tours and the promotion of research and conservation as part of the creation of new diffusion strategies. It is therefore of vital importance to identify clearly defined criteria for the selection and dissemination of such spaces, taking into consideration their historical and cultural significance, their state of conservation and their potential for driving awareness and promoting education. In this sense, the dissemination of heritage sites requires an integrated approach that combines research, conservation and promotion that involves both the local community and visitors in their preservation and enjoyment.

New Insights in Metallurgical Manufacturing in the Caucasian Area: The Case Study of Artefacts from the Samshvilde Citadel Ruins (South Georgia)

An archaeometric approach was applied to the study of the hoard found in the Samshvilde fortress, one of the richest areas of archaeological artefacts in Caucasian Georgia, since it is representative of the historical events from the Neolithic period until the most recent epochs. In this context, four coins dated back to the 12th–13th centuries AD to the reign of King Giorgi III, Queen Tamar, and King Giorgi IV of Georgia underwent different analytical methods to collect information about the technological production process, the probable forge location, and their conservation state. Optical microscope observations provided details about the decorations, the stylistic aspects, and a preliminary evaluation of the conservation state. Portable X-ray fluorescence and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis revealed a composition consisting almost exclusively of copper with a lower amount of tin, lead, and silver. Moreover, degradation products (copper chlorides and sulphates) and cuprite patina were identified. The metal-supplying areas could be related to the nearby Bolnisi Mining District, and the forge location could coincide with the hoard location in Samshvilde, but further data and analyses are necessary.

Anisotropy and compaction gradient assessment on rammed earth specimens through sonic tomography approach

Rammed earth is a traditional construction technique that has recently gained attention because of its benefits from an ecological perspective. The conservation of the existing valuable cultural heritage sites and the quality control of new constructions built with this material require the development and application of practical inspection techniques. This paper explores the application of sonic tests and sonic tomography as practical tools for monitoring the state of conservation of existing structures and the identification of heterogeneities or damaged areas. Two groups of 6 rammed earth specimens were manufactured and tested. The manufacturing process of each group allowed the application of compression loads and the identification of the Sonic Wave Propagation Velocities along directions parallel and perpendicular to the compaction forces during manufacturing. The SWPV were identified for the different paths between 9 measuring points located at two opposite sides of the specimens, leading to up to 6 different planes for each specimen. The SWPV are identified by identifying the Time-of-Flight of the elastic wave between each pair of excitation and receiver points. A discretized coloured map of the SWPV distribution for each plane defined by the measurement points array is obtained by the application of an algorithm already developed by the authors to obtain tomographic images for other materials and applications. The SWPV are identified after 2 different increasing values of a uniform compressive load is applied to each specimen. The results show that the analysis of the SWPV and tomographic images is sensitive to heterogeneities, such as compaction gradients from the manufacturing process, and also to the accumulated damage in the solid. The paper demonstrates that the proposed technique can be potentially used for a qualitative inspection of the state of conservation of specific rammed earth constructions.

Towards Effective Measures for Curbing the Illegal Wildlife Trade: A Comprehensive Approach with ARIMA Modeling and Responsible Party Evaluation

Illegal wildlife trade has become an urgent global problem that threatens global ecosystems, biodiversity and sustainable development. This problem requires us to propose comprehensive measures to significantly curb illegal wildlife trade.We used data from government work reports from 2014 to 2023 to establish an evaluation system for the responsible parties, and found that wildlife conservation is very important to the Chinese government using the AHP-Entropy weight method. We developed relevant measures to reduce illegal wildlife trade based on Citespace's literature research method. Then we collected public data from Chinese governmental departments from 2010 to 2023, and used ARIMA model to predict the future of the initiatives we developed to reduce illegal wildlife trade. By collecting public data from the China Wildlife Wildlife Enforcement Agency and fitting the state of wildlife conservation based on China's national conditions over the past 15 years, we evaluated the available resources and found that while the overall trend of the Chinese government can reduce illegal trade practices, the trend is not stable in the short term. China's wildlife protection agencies can continue to increase enforcement of this problem to better reduce the occurrence of illegal wildlife trade behavior.

Parent Perspectives of School Meals for All During the COVID-19 Pandemic in a Conservative State

ABSTRACT During the COVID-19 pandemic, the USDA offered school meals to all students. The purpose of this study was to understand parent perspectives of school meals for all during the pandemic in a conservative state. This was an exploratory qualitative case study conducted in Utah. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with parents (n = 16) of K-12 students. Three themes emerged: (a) Conservation of family resources, (b) School meals for all quality, and (c) School meals for all and the future. Parents indicated school meals reduced stigma, provided financial and time benefits to families. Most parents supported the continuation of school meals for all.

A risk-based quantitative approach for priority assessment of ageing bridges accounting for deterioration

The significant role of bridges in transportation networks requires continuous improvement of bridge management strategies, which has been even more exacerbated by the recent bridge collapses worldwide. This study proposes a framework for the prioritization and preliminary risk assessment of existing bridges subjected to seismic and traffic hazards. The proposed method adopts quantitative expressions to define risk in a simplified manner and, consequently, the priority associated with a certain bridge within a bridge stock. The three primary components of risk are considered: vulnerability, exposure, and hazard, which are specified according to the characteristics of the bridge, site, and road network. The bridge state of conservation is accounted for in the vulnerability component through average and critical defect condition indicators. The proposed method is implemented in a case-study of thirty real bridges in northern Italy. The impact of defects on vulnerability and priority ranking of bridges, the assumptions for defects condition and each subcomponent’s contribution to risk classification are discussed. The prioritization results are presented in absolute and normalized formats, with the latter providing a clearer view of the bridges’ relative priority within the stock. Finally, the proposed method’s findings are compared with the current Italian qualitative guidelines for bridge management.

Analysis of the micro-drainage infrastructure on an avenue in the city of Aracaju-SE

The urban drainage system plays a vital role in the lives of people living in urban areas, protecting properties and citizens during heavy rainfall, preventing erosion on streets and public roads, and other benefits. To create an efficient drainage system, attention must be paid to the design, execution, and supervision of works by qualified professionals, as well as the maintenance of existing works. Because of the above, this article aims to analyze the micro-drainage infrastructure of Avenida Edélzio Vieira de Melo, in the city of Aracaju-SE. Initially, an in loco visit was made to assess the state of conservation and the presence of waste in the gutters and gutter inlet. It was observed that 51.2% of the gutter inlets are located in an undesirable way; 60.5% are partially or totally degraded and 81.4% have solid waste disposal. About the manholes, 90% are inadequately located, 80% are partially or totally degraded, and, finally, 70% are level with the sidewalk. The conclusion is that the devices need to be cleaned more frequently, and the population needs to be made more aware not to throw garbage in the street, since the presence of solid waste negatively affects the functioning of the drainage network. Finally, the location of the devices (manholes and gutter inlets) affects their efficiency, and durability and interferes with the comfort of those who use the road.

Saturnino Herrán’s portable murals: symbolism, material agency and conservation

Alegoría de la construcción and Alegoría del trabajo were the first mural paintings commissioned to Saturnino Herrán (1887–1918), and they occupied a significant place in one of the most important schools in Mexico. The non-invasive methodology employed included different documentation phases and in situ multi-technique analyses. Hyperspectral imaging and digital radiography were used for a general characterization of the materials and were complemented with localized analyses by portable microscopy, and XRF and FORS spectroscopies. A complete identification of the original and the restoration palettes was achieved. Results from this work allowed us to understand the production context, painting technique, and conservation state, thus providing insights for the proper conservation of these murals, while also unveiling a new perception of the artist and his historical place among the muralist movement.

Who lives there now? Residualisation of social housing in Austria

Across Europe, there is a trend to re-focus social housing on the most economically vulnerable groups (“residualisation”). We investigate whether this trend is also observed in Austria, a conservative welfare state with a social housing system open to a broad range of households and a long tradition of municipal housing. Using data from 1995 to 2018, we estimate residualisation indicators that compare the income of social housing tenants with other housing sectors. Based on tenants’ income, we find that municipal housing has become more residualised. This contrasts with Austria’s social housing allocation policy, where generous income limits remain important cornerstones. For limited-profit housing associations (LPHAs), we observe a smaller residualisation trend (mainly outside the capital Vienna), which has gained momentum since the early 2010s. This remedies the Austrian peculiarity that the LPHA sector was a middle-income tenure rather than a safety net for the poor. For both types of social housing, a growing income gap with owners is noticeable.

Environmental Conservation and Sustainability in South West Nigeria: A Comparative Analysis

This research investigates the state of environmental conservation and sustainability in rural and urban settings of South West Nigeria. The study aims to compare and contrast conservation practices, challenges, and opportunities in these distinct environments. The methodology involves a comprehensive survey conducted in selected rural areas and state capitals, employing both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. Key findings reveal notable disparities in environmental conservation efforts, influenced by traditional practices, modernization, and policy interventions. The study underscores the importance of tailored approaches for rural and urban contexts, offering valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners working towards sustainable development in South West Nigeria.

Rissoidae (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Rissooidea) from taphocoenotic assemblages of the Strait of Sicily (Mediterranean Sea) with the description of two new species

Twenty-one rissoid species have been found in four bathyal samples from the Strait of Sicily, represented exclusively by empty shells. Some of these species are shallow water dwellers, associated with algal facies, others are typical of deep-sea (bathyal-abyssal). Two species are described as new (Alvania ismar n. sp. and Manzonia schmidti n. sp., both of probable Plio-Pleistocene age) and two have not been identified at the species level, due to the small number of specimens found and their poor state of conservation. Taxonomical remarks on some taxa are provided.

Using clustering as pre-processing in the framework of signal unmixing for exhaustive exploration of archaeological artefacts in Raman imaging

Analytical chemistry on archaeological material is an essential part of modern archaeological investigations and from year to year, instrumental improvement has made it possible to generate data at a high spatial and temporal frequency. In particular, Raman spectral imaging can be successfully applied in archaeological research by its simplicity of implementation to study past human societies through the analysis of their material remains. This technique makes it possible to simultaneously obtain spatial and spectral information by preserving sample integrity. However, because of the inherent complexity of the samples in Archaeology (e.g. seniority, fragility, lack or full absence of any information about its composition), chemical interpretation can be difficult at first glance. Indeed, specific problems of spectral selectivity related to unexpected chemical compounds could appear due to their state of conservation. Furthermore, detecting minor compounds becomes challenging as major components impose their contributions in the acquired spectra. Therefore, a relevant chemometric approach has been introduced in this context to characterize distinct spectral sources in a Raman imaging dataset of an archaeological specimen – a mosaic fragment. The fragment was unearthed during the Ruscino archaeological dig on the outskirts of Perpignan, France. It dates back to the oppidum period. The aim is to extract selective spectral information from pixel clustering analysis in order to enhance the initial optimisation step within the Multivariate Curve Resolution and Alternating Least-Squares (MCR-ALS) algorithm, a well-known signal unmixing technique. The underlying principle of the MCR-ALS is that the acquired spectra can be expressed as linear combinations of pure spectra of all individual components present in the chemical system under study. Sometimes it can be difficult to obtain the desired results through the algorithm, particularly if initial estimates of spectral or concentration profiles are inaccurate due to complex signals, noise or lack of selectivity, resulting in rank deficiency (i.e. a poor estimation of the total number of pure signals). For this reason, an innovative threshold-based clustering algorithm, combined with multiple Orthogonal Projection Approaches (OPA), has been developed to improve matrix rank investigation and thus the initialisation step of the MCR-ALS approach before optimisation. The effective analysis of Raman imaging data for an archaeological mosaic played a crucial role in uncovering significant chemical information about a particular biogenic material. This insight sheds light on the origins of mortar manufacture during the oppidum period.

Hazard Analysis and Vulnerability Assessment of Cultural Landscapes Exposed to Climate Change-Related Extreme Events: A Case Study of Wachau (Austria)

The present paper aims to study the Wachau Valley in Austria as a representative Cultural Landscape under threat from extreme hydrometeorological hazards linked to climate change. The primary objective is to investigate the impacts and assess the vulnerability associated with the events of heavy rain and flooding. The methodology employed consists of an investigation of recorded past events impacting the Wachau; a vulnerability ranking system; a climate time series analysis based on earth observation products; and future hazard maps at territorial level, developed with outputs from regional and global climate models. The investigation we carried out provides a vulnerability assessment of two terraced areas with a surface of about 10,000 m2 in total, characterized by the presence of dry stone walls, with different state of conservation in the Municipality of Krems (Wachau). In addition, climate projections at territorial level for the extreme climate indices R20mm, R95pTOT, and R×5day—selected for investigating the likelihood of increases/decreases in events of heavy rain and large basin flooding—are provided, with a spatial resolution of ~12 km for the near and far future (2021–2050; 2071–2100) under stabilizing (RCP 4.5) and pessimistic (RCP 8.5) scenarios. The results indicate a general increase for the three indices in the studied areas during the far future under the pessimistic scenario, suggesting a heightened risk of heavy rain and flooding. These findings aim to inform policymakers and decision-makers in their development of strategies for safeguarding cultural heritage. Furthermore, they serve to assist local stakeholders in enhancing their understanding of prioritizing interventions related to preparedness, emergency response, and recovery.

Inclusion, Access, and Intersectionality in the Outdoors: A Rock Climbing Case Study of the Salt Lake Area Queer Climbers (SLAQC) Organization

Summary In this case study, we explore our experiences as three of the co-organizers of the Salt Lake Area Queer Climbers (SLAQC) organization, a rock climbing queer advocacy organization based in Salt Lake City. Matty is a queer, cisgender white man, Lea is a queer/pansexual Latina, and Rue is a queer Chinese-American. All of us have been climbing for several years, and Lea and Matty were both active in the Salt Lake Climbers Alliance organization, as well. Utah is a predominantly white, conservative, and religious state, and in spite of obstacles, we have created a homeplace for queer climbers. Our organization breaks down access barriers, gear barriers, and more through partnerships with local gyms, local climbing affinity groups such as Color the Wasatch, gear organizations, and queer climbing guides. In this case study, we explore best practices that we utilize to frame our events and our community outreach, rooted within principles of intersectionality, and reflect upon the 1-year anniversary of SLAQC. Information © CAB International 2024