scholarly journals Applications of Stratigraphic Analysis to Enhance the Inspection and Structural Characterization of Historic Bridges

2021 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
pp. 7
Author(s):  
Francesca Savini ◽  
Carlo Rainieri ◽  
Giovanni Fabbrocino ◽  
Ilaria Trizio
Keyword(s):  
Geographical Area ◽  
Central Italy ◽  
Interdisciplinary Approach ◽  
Integrated Approach ◽  
Structural Features ◽  
Existing Structures ◽  
3D Data ◽  
Bridge Structures ◽  
First Results ◽  
Landscape Value

Road networks are disseminated of bridge structures whose typology reflects the time of design and construction of the transportation infrastructure and its relevance in the reference geographical area. Among others, masonry bridges are still widely operational, especially in those regions affected by a limited urbanization and a very high landscape value. As a consequence, the maintenance and the reliability of existing structures is a key issue for owners and managers of road and railway infrastructures. This circumstance leads to the development of an integrated approach able to cover the needs of knowledge of the technological and structural features of the bridge along with its history and current conditions. The main contribution of the study lies in the implementation of such an interdisciplinary approach through the application of archaeological stratigraphic method and 3D data management to historical masonry bridges. The survey and inspection protocol, whose first results are here presented, aims to improve the knowledge of the assets, and facilitate the visual inspection. The results refer to a road infrastructure located along the Aterno River in the surroundings of L’Aquila (Central Italy) and point out promising perspectives in terms of feasibility and scalability of the approach to large stocks of assets.

scholarly journals Applying Close Range Non-Destructive Techniques for the Detection of Conservation Problems in Rock-Carved Cultural Heritage Sites

2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (5) ◽  
pp. 1040
Author(s):  
William Frodella ◽  
Mikheil Elashvili ◽  
Daniele Spizzichino ◽  
Giovanni Gigli ◽  
Akaki Nadaraia ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Cultural Heritage ◽  
Interdisciplinary Approach ◽  
Integrated Approach ◽  
Structural Features ◽  
Slope Instability ◽  
Conservation Strategies ◽  
Weak Rocks ◽  
Heritage Sites ◽  
Mountainous Regions ◽  
Close Range

Rock-carved cultural heritage sites are often developed in slopes formed by weak rocks, which due to their peculiar lithological, geotechnical, and morpho-structural features are characterized by excellent carvability, which at the same time makes them prone to weathering, deterioration, and slope instability issues. In this context the use of advanced close-range nondestructive techniques, such as Infrared Thermography (IRT) and Unmanned Aerial vehicle-based Digital Photogrammetry (UAV-DP) can be profitably used for the rapid detection of conservation issues (e.g., open fractures, unstable ledges-niches, water seepage and moisture) that can lead to slope instability phenomena. These techniques, when combined with traditional methods (e.g., field surveys, laboratory analysis), can provide fundamental data (such as 3D maps of the kinematic mechanisms) to implement a site-specific and interdisciplinary approach for the sustainable protection and conservation of such fragile cultural heritage sites. In this paper some examples of conservation problems in several rupestrian sites characterized by different geological contexts, from the mountainous regions of Georgia to the ancient city of Petra in Jordan, are presented, with the aim of evaluating the potential of the proposed integrated approach. The final aim is to provide conservators, practitioners, and local authorities with a useful, versatile, and low-cost methodology, to be profitably used in the protection and conservation strategies of rock-carved sites.

scholarly journals A novel methodology for epidemic risk assessment of COVID-19 outbreak

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
A. Pluchino ◽  
A. E. Biondo ◽  
N. Giuffrida ◽  
G. Inturri ◽  
V. Latora ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Human Mobility ◽  
Risk Index ◽  
A Priori ◽  
Geographical Area ◽  
Central Italy ◽  
Policy Model ◽  
Italian Regions ◽  
Northern Regions ◽  
Seasonal Flu ◽  
Epidemic Risk

AbstractWe propose a novel data-driven framework for assessing the a-priori epidemic risk of a geographical area and for identifying high-risk areas within a country. Our risk index is evaluated as a function of three different components: the hazard of the disease, the exposure of the area and the vulnerability of its inhabitants. As an application, we discuss the case of COVID-19 outbreak in Italy. We characterize each of the twenty Italian regions by using available historical data on air pollution, human mobility, winter temperature, housing concentration, health care density, population size and age. We find that the epidemic risk is higher in some of the Northern regions with respect to Central and Southern Italy. The corresponding risk index shows correlations with the available official data on the number of infected individuals, patients in intensive care and deceased patients, and can help explaining why regions such as Lombardia, Emilia-Romagna, Piemonte and Veneto have suffered much more than the rest of the country. Although the COVID-19 outbreak started in both North (Lombardia) and Central Italy (Lazio) almost at the same time, when the first cases were officially certified at the beginning of 2020, the disease has spread faster and with heavier consequences in regions with higher epidemic risk. Our framework can be extended and tested on other epidemic data, such as those on seasonal flu, and applied to other countries. We also present a policy model connected with our methodology, which might help policy-makers to take informed decisions.

scholarly journals The Role of Faults in Groundwater Circulation before and after Seismic Events: Insights from Tracers, Water Isotopes and Geochemistry

Water ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (11) ◽  
pp. 1499
Author(s):  
Davide Fronzi ◽  
Francesco Mirabella ◽  
Carlo Cardellini ◽  
Stefano Caliro ◽  
Stefano Palpacelli ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Preferential Flow ◽  
Central Italy ◽  
Tracer Tests ◽  
Integrated Approach ◽  
Fault System ◽  
Tectonic Structures ◽  
Fault Systems ◽  
Isotopic Analyses ◽  
Before And After

The interaction between fluids and tectonic structures such as fault systems is a much-discussed issue. Many scientific works are aimed at understanding what the role of fault systems in the displacement of deep fluids is, by investigating the interaction between the upper mantle, the lower crustal portion and the upraising of gasses carried by liquids. Many other scientific works try to explore the interaction between the recharge processes, i.e., precipitation, and the fault zones, aiming to recognize the function of the abovementioned structures and their capability to direct groundwater flow towards preferential drainage areas. Understanding the role of faults in the recharge processes of punctual and linear springs, meant as gaining streams, is a key point in hydrogeology, as it is known that faults can act either as flow barriers or as preferential flow paths. In this work an investigation of a fault system located in the Nera River catchment (Italy), based on geo-structural investigations, tracer tests, geochemical and isotopic recharge modelling, allows to identify the role of the normal fault system before and after the 2016–2017 central Italy seismic sequence (Mmax = 6.5). The outcome was achieved by an integrated approach consisting of a structural geology field work, combined with GIS-based analysis, and of a hydrogeological investigation based on artificial tracer tests and geochemical and isotopic analyses.

scholarly journals A data acquisition setup for data driven acoustic design

2021 ◽  
pp. 1351010X2098690
Author(s):  
Romana Rust ◽  
Achilleas Xydis ◽  
Kurt Heutschi ◽  
Nathanael Perraudin ◽  
Gonzalo Casas ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Data Acquisition ◽  
Interdisciplinary Approach ◽  
Computational Design ◽  
Surface Structures ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Data Set ◽  
Process Measures ◽  
First Results ◽  
Spatio Temporal ◽  
Automated Data Acquisition

In this paper, we present a novel interdisciplinary approach to study the relationship between diffusive surface structures and their acoustic performance. Using computational design, surface structures are iteratively generated and 3D printed at 1:10 model scale. They originate from different fabrication typologies and are designed to have acoustic diffusion and absorption effects. An automated robotic process measures the impulse responses of these surfaces by positioning a microphone and a speaker at multiple locations. The collected data serves two purposes: first, as an exploratory catalogue of different spatio-temporal-acoustic scenarios and second, as data set for predicting the acoustic response of digitally designed surface geometries using machine learning. In this paper, we present the automated data acquisition setup, the data processing and the computational generation of diffusive surface structures. We describe first results of comparative studies of measured surface panels and conclude with steps of future research.

Wide variability in colorectal cancer screening uptake by general practitioner: Cross-sectional study

2021 ◽  
pp. 096914132110357
Author(s):  
Cecilia Acuti Martellucci ◽  
Maria E Flacco ◽  
Margherita Morettini ◽  
Giusi Giacomini ◽  
Matthew Palmer ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Colorectal Cancer ◽  
Geographical Area ◽  
Central Italy ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Local Health ◽  
Sectional Study ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Crc Screening ◽  
Screening Uptake

Objectives Despite several interventions, colorectal cancer (CRC) screening uptake remains below acceptable levels in Italy. Among the potential determinants of screening uptake, only a few studies analysed the role of general practitioners (GPs). The aim was to evaluate the variation in screening uptake of the clusters of subjects assisted by single GPs. Setting Ancona province, Central Italy. Methods Cross-sectional study, including all residents aged 50–69 years, who were offered the public screening programme with biannual faecal immunochemical tests. Demographic (of all GPs) and screening data (of all eligible residents) for years 2018–2019 were collected from the official electronic datasets of the Ancona Local Health Unit. The potential predictors of acceptable screening uptake, including GP's gender, age, and number of registered subjects, were evaluated using random-effect logistic regression, with geographical area as the cluster unit. Results The final sample consisted of 332 GP clusters, including 120,178 eligible subjects. The overall province uptake was 38.0% ± 10.7%. The uptake was lower than 30% in one-fifth of the GP clusters, and higher than 45% in another fifth. At multivariable analysis, the significant predictors of uptake were younger GP age ( p = 0.010) and lower number of registered subjects ( p < 0.001). None of the GP clusters with 500 subjects or more showed an uptake ≥45%. Conclusions The wide variation across GPs suggests they might substantially influence screening uptake, highlighting a potential need to increase their commitment to CRC screening. Further research is needed to confirm the role of the number of registered subjects.

scholarly journals ELEMENTS OF SOURCING STRATEGIES IN FM SERVICES - A MULTIPLE CASE STUDY

2006 ◽  
Vol 10 (4) ◽  
pp. 249-267 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tomi Ventovuori
Keyword(s):  
Decision Making ◽  
Geographical Area ◽  
Multiple Case Study ◽  
Integrated Approach ◽  
Strategy Development ◽  
Sourcing Strategies ◽  
Sourcing Strategy ◽  
Starting Point ◽  
Multiple Case

The aim of this paper is to identify the different elements of the sourcing strategy decision‐making process and to clarify what are the factors that lead to the selection of a certain sourcing strategy in FM services. The study is based on a literature review and a multiple case study, which was conducted with four organizations representing different types of FM service clients. To find the optimal sourcing strategy and understand the consequences of different sourcing options, five decision categories must be analysed: sourcing interface, organizational decision‐making, the scope of service package, the geographical area of sourcing and relationship type. There are also some other elements that must be taken into account in the process of sourcing strategy development such as different elements of business in general and the prevailing market conditions. It is strongly suggested that companies could apply the presented integrated approach as a starting point for the development of sourcing strategies in FM services. In addition, this study shows that companies should view the development of sourcing strategies as an important phase of the procurement cycle.

scholarly journals Contemporary art thesauri in the context of the teaching profession development

2021 ◽  
Vol 53 (5) ◽  
pp. 32-47
Author(s):  
Larisa Yu. Kalinina ◽  
◽  
Dmitry V. Ivanov ◽  
Nikolai A. Nikitin ◽  
◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Contemporary Art ◽  
Interdisciplinary Approach ◽  
Integrated Approach ◽  
Teaching Profession ◽  
Professional Roles ◽  
Economic Changes ◽  
Cultural Activities ◽  
Education Levels ◽  
Research Findings ◽  
High Degree

Introduction. The problem of identifying the role of contemporary art thesauri in the teaching profession development has become aggravated in the context of global socio-economic changes, apparently irreversible after the COVID-19 pandemic. Contemporary art, actively exploring the reality of the digital age, makes it possible to comprehend the essence of the new in education, clearly see the ideal of a person who is in demand by the society of the 2020s, and choose a way to overcome the crisis of the teaching profession, which is no longer limited by the framework of person-to-person duality but is fundamentally open due to technology. The research purpose is to generalize scientific ideas for the study of contemporary art thesauri as a tool for developing the teaching profession in the cultural-educational space of the 21st century. The research methodology includes the thesaurus, interdisciplinary and integrated approaches; identification and systematization of units of knowledge about contemporary art through thesauri influencing the development of the profession of a teacher. The use of a thesaurus approach made it possible to identify and systematize units of knowledge about contemporary art and its educational opportunities that coincide in one way or another. An interdisciplinary approach showed the mechanism of integrating disciplines studied by future teachers with the space of modern artistic culture. An integrated approach was used to view contemporary art as a hierarchical system of a high degree of complexity in specific historical and psychological aspects. The research results contain a generalized description of the process of integrating contemporary art into education: the transition from a teacher’s professionalism to transprofessionalism through the introduction into the widespread practice of approaches that have resulted from the activities of representatives of creative professions; increasing the significance of a teacher as an organizer of cultural activities in the context of distance learning, with the emergence of new professional roles; the formation of concepts reflecting the commonality of thinking of a teacher and an author of artworks. Findings. Contemporary art thesauri help pedagogical education get to a higher level due to a new understanding of the profession of a teacher: as developing from professionalism to transprofessionalism through the assimilation of knowledge about the formation of a professional in the art sphere (“alien” becomes “own”), focused on organizing students’ cultural activities using distance technologies and new professional roles, explaining itself in terms of pedagogy and art. The field of application of research findings is the improvement of educational programs at all education levels (from the preschool establishment to university) in accordance with the requirements of state standards.

Active Fault Systems in the inner North West Apennines: an updated view

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Giancarlo Molli ◽  
Rick Bennett ◽  
Jacques Malavieille ◽  
Enrico Serpelloni ◽  
Fabrizio Storti ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Active Fault ◽  
Central Italy ◽  
Structural Features ◽  
Structural Studies ◽  
Data Set ◽  
Structural Domains ◽  
North West ◽  
Fault Systems ◽  
Internal Fault ◽  
Fault Characterization

&lt;p&gt;As part of an ongoing project of mapping, structural studies and fault characterization we present an updated tectonic scheme and data set for the active fault systems that shaped the inner portion of the Apennines north of the Arno river. Geomorphology, stratigraphy of Plio-Quaternary sediments, GPS data, historical and instrumental seismicity have been reviewed and combined with structural studies to define the neotectonic history of the investigated region. Within the studied area, first-order physiographic and structural features allow to define different structural domains related to a set of ranges with a dominant NW-SE direction separated by intramontane or continental/marine morphotectonic depressions of the Lunigiana, Garfagnana, Lucca-Mt.Albano, La Spezia-Carrara and the off-shore Viareggio basin. The main boundary faults and internal fault segments of the different structural domains were described while the Plio-Quaternary sedimentary records has been used to constrain their long to short term deformation and rates, with the aim to improve current Italian catalogues - DISS (INGV) and Ithaca (ISPRA) - with some utilities for the seismic microzonation local projects. Moreover, our work aims to draw the attention of the scientific community to the seismotectonics of a region in which the seismic hazard is largely considered medium to low despite the occurrence, one century ago, of one of the most destructive earthquakes that have struck the Italian peninsula, the 1920 Fivizzano EQ, with an estimated Mw 6.5 similar to the main shock of the 2016 Central Italy seismic sequence.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&amp;#160;&lt;/p&gt;

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