State Of Conservation Research Articles

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

Outstanding Universal Value of World Natural Heritage Sites: Definition Issues

The paper provides an in-depth analysis of the concept of outstanding universal value of world heritage sites, which is the supporting category of the entire system of protection of unique natural sites. The paper considers the normative basis for the definition of this concept in the Convention for the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, the Guidelines for its implementation, the practice of the World Heritage Committee and the acts of its advisory bodies. The tripartite division of the composition of outstanding universal value is critically analyzed and the reasons for its appearance are highlighted. Methods of formalizing the analyzed concept are explored, shortcomings in the formulation of wordings of outstanding universal value are highlighted, and various ways to improve this institution are proposed. The comparative legal method of research is widely used: all the problems discussed in the paper are illustrated by the current law enforcement practice of the World Heritage Committee in reviewing the state of conservation of unique natural objects located in foreign countries. The results obtained are compared with the problems of protecting Russian World Natural Heritage sites.

Machine Learning for the Semi-Automatic 3D Decay Segmentation and Mapping of Heritage Assets

ABSTRACT In Architectural Heritage (AH), diagnostics represent a key topic, related to the assessment of the state of conservation, for a well-structured and integrated knowledge about the artefact. This is of paramount importance for buildings denoted by historic-artistic interest, often in widespread damaged conditions. Digital technologies could represent a valuable alternative, for the creation, processing, and analysis of 2D images or reality-capture 3D data. Indeed, image processing and artificial intelligence are spreading in the AH domain, for both documentation and conservation purposes. The present research proposes a novel methodological approach, based on the application of machine learning systems, for the assessment and mapping of decay evidence in an ancient artefact, within the diagnostic process. An unsupervised hierarchical clustering of point clouds has been validated and compared against a state-of-the-art supervised random forest. The presented pipeline has been tested on a plurality of case studies, representative of the territorial historic built heritage, qualified by a great variety, in terms of age, building type, surface, and lighting conditions. For most of the classes, the cloud-based unsupervised approach consents to accomplish better performances.

Historic Building Information Modeling for Conservation and Maintenance: San Niccolo’s Tower Gate, Florence

In the field of conservation and protection of heritage buildings, knowledge plays a fundamental role, emphasized by national and international rules and regulations. This aspect becomes fundamental when conducting the structural assessment of a historical building. This study envisaged a cognitive phase via the application of advanced survey and diagnostic methodologies to define the materials, construction techniques, and state of conservation of the structural system of a specific building forming part of Florence’s heritage. The information complex produced formed the basis for the structural assessment and for the experimentation of the BIM methodology within the creation of databases for the management of cognitive processes of historical buildings. The case study is one of the gates of the last circle of walls of the 14th century and is the only one that has maintained its original height, despite modifications: the gate/tower of San Niccolò. The research conducted, in addition to achieving a structural assessment of the tower, has allowed the creation of a dynamic model for organizing and consulting the information, laying the groundwork for the creation of a conservation and maintenance plan.

Reflectance imaging spectroscopy for the study of archaeological pre-Columbian textiles

In this study, two pre-Columbian textiles belonging to the Middle Orizon and Necropolis Paracas Cultures are studied by means of reflectance imaging spectroscopy. The non-invasive analysis of artifacts is a fundamental step when investigating the constituent materials and their state of conservation in order to target subsequent sampling campaigns in specific areas. The paper aims to explore the spectral properties in the Visible Near-Infrared (VNIR) and Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR) intervals and investigate the spectral correlation between the relevant identified regions of interest. Two ways of selecting relevant spectral signatures are proposed: manual selection and automatic filtering. According to these two selections, the regions of interest undergo spectral unmixing in the VNIR interval to investigate which dyes had been used as such. The hyperspectral images are then mapped according to the selected endmembers in both VNIR and SWIR intervals. Small areas that feature the usage of a peculiar black thread have been given particular attention and imaged with a macro objective. The SWIR mapping on one of the samples has helped to reveal a pattern that can be ascribed to the manufacturing processes or the burial conditions.

An ICT-Enhanced Methodology for the Characterization of Vernacular Built Heritage at a Regional Scale

ABSTRACT The characterization of vernacular buildings is crucial for understanding the historical, social, and cultural significance of a community. These buildings reflect a collective memory and result from a long adaptation process to the local environment. Documenting them facilitates better decision-making regarding the preservation of their intrinsic values and long-term conservation. Unfortunately, depopulation processes in many areas threaten this invaluable heritage. Furthermore, this heritage is often overlooked due to a lack of awareness and appreciation by local authorities and residents. This paper presents a methodology for documenting and inventorying vernacular built heritage, with the main goal of contributing to promoting its valorization. The methodology integrates Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) with GIS tools to create large-scale inventories. Using the Montesinho Natural Park (Portugal) as a case study, the methodology facilitated the collection of data from over 2,000 buildings in 13 villages. The collected data was then used to characterize the vernacular built heritage of selected villages in terms of authenticity, conservation state, materials, construction systems, past interventions, present use, and occupancy. The findings of this study can serve as a valuable resource for developing inventories of vernacular buildings in rural areas, contributing to the protection of this distinctive architectural heritage.

Energy characterization of buildings in polar climate: Case study of Gabriel de Castilla Antarctic station

In this paper, we present the energy characterization of two habitable modules at the Spanish station “Gabriel de Castilla”, located on Deception Island, Antarctica. The analysis includes profiles of energy consumption for space heating and domestic hot water, as well as indoor air conditions, which were all recorded during one month of Antarctic summer. Additionally, the measurement of walls’ transmittance and air infiltrations, together with thermography analysis, enabled evaluating the conservation state of the buildings’ envelope. Upon analyzing all this data, it is evident that there is potential to enhance the design of future modules, improving the thermal comfort while significantly reducing the energy consumption. This will contribute to decrease the logistics and environmental impacts of these research stations, crucial considerations in human activity on the Antarctic continent.