bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organic inputs with reduced chemical fertilizers improve yield, antioxidant components, and defense mechanisms in Tomato (var. Pusa Sheetal)
Authors: Verma Shiv Bhushan , Kumar Chitranjan , Narayan Raghvendra Pratap
Published: May 2024

Chemical fertilizers are widely used to meet the nutritional needs of crops and increase yields; but, due to their high cost and abuse, certain adverse effects are causing the soil to deteriorate. A decline in soil organic carbon is being addressed through the use of vermicompost and farmyard manure as organic amendments, potentially reducing chemical fertilizer usage and ensuring sustainable crop nutrient supply. A study utilizing cattle farmyard manure and vermicompost, along with reduced chemical fertilizers, demonstrated that organic inputs significantly enhance tomato growth, physiology, yield, nutritional, and defense attributes. The study found that using farmyard manure and vermicompost in combination with reduced chemical fertilizers significantly increased plant height (14.2%), number of branches (26.7%), number of leaves (18.1%), fruit weight (30.7%), yield (89.4%), ascorbate peroxidase (15.4%), carotenoids (11.6%), vitamin C (15.4%), lycopene (17.2%), superoxide dismutase (18.5%), total antioxidant activity (55.4%), total soluble solids (9.9%), and vitamin C 7.9% in tomatoes, potentially reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. In addition, soil pH was slightly neutralized and soil organic carbon and available N, P, and K status of soils significantly improved. Tomatoes with higher levels of ascorbate peroxidase, carotenoids, lycopene, superoxide dismutase activity, total antioxidant activity, total soluble solids, and vitamin C, showed higher yields.
Effect of biofertilizers and manures on growth, yield, and quality of cabbage (Brassica oleracea)
Authors: kumar Sonu , Parmar Kshitij
Published: May 2024

“Effect of biofertilizers and manures on growth, yield and quality of cabbage.” Examining, identifying, and summarising the key results and conclusions of a study on the impact of different organic amendments on the development and production of cabbage crops was the aim of the current investigation. Investigating the effects of various organic additions on soil characteristics, plant development, and cabbage production was the goal of the study. These amendments included compost, manure, and biochar. Plant growth, nutrient availability, and soil fertility may all be considerably enhanced by adding organic amendments, according to the study’s findings. While biochar amendment had a negligible influence on soil fertility, compost and manure additions were shown to be the most efficient in enhancing soil characteristics. Cabbage production was further increased by the application of organic amendments; the plots treated with compost yielded the best yields. The study comes to the conclusion that using organic amendments to improve soil fertility and crop output in cabbage farming can be a sustainable and successful strategy.
Enhancement of growth, yield and quality of Trigonella foenum-graecum L. (Fenugreek) in response to dual application of Azotobacter chrococcum (Azotobacter) and Pseudomonas fluorescens (Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria) under Northern region
Authors: Chophi Kuputoli K. , Kumar Chitranjan
Published: May 2024

Medicinal plants are used in natural therapies and food additives, but chemical fertilizers can negatively impact plant growth. Using beneficial rhizosphere microbiota can improve plant production under both conventional and stressed conditions. The present investigation was was set up using a Randomized Block Design (RBD), with six treatments and three replications each, carried out during the rabi season of 2024. Treatments as T1 (Control), T2 (Vermicompost at 5 t/ha), T3 (Azotobacter at 15 g/kg seed + Vermicompost at 2.5 t / ha), T4 (PSB + Azotobacter at 15 g / kg seed), T5 (FYM at 10 t / ha), and T6 (FYM at 5 t / ha + Azotobacter + PSB at 15 g / kg seed) investigated the impact of bio-fertilizers on plant biometric parameters and crude protein content in fenugreek. The plant's total performance was greatly enhanced by applying both Azotobacter and PSB in addition to FYM. The results showed that the treatment T6 (FYM at 5 t / ha + Azotobacter + PSB at 15 g / kg seed) significantly increased plant height, number of branches, number of leaves and yield compared to the control at all time points (30 DAS, 60 DAS, and 90 DAS), followed by treatment T4 (PSB + Azotobacter at 15 g/kg seed). The treatment T6 yields the highest crude protein content, up to 21.94%, followed by the treatment T4 as a reasonably high protein content of 21.32%. The study revealed that Azotobacter and PSB, along with FYM, significantly improved plant performance, suggesting that beneficial microorganisms can enhance plant growth and development. Fertilizers such as FYM and vermicompost also had a positive impact on plant growth and quality in fenugreek.
Evaluation of slay composition in the sediments of the Mohamed Ben Abdelkrim El Khattabi Dam, Beni Bouayach, Northern Morocco
Authors: El Abdouni Aouatif , Taoufiq Kadri , Haboubi Khadija , Haboubi Chaimae , El Bastrioui Mohamed , Elmsellem Hisham , Bouhout Sara , El Allaoui Hasnae
Published: May 2024

This research analyses and identifies clays from the Mohamed Ben Abdelkrim El Khattabi dam in Beni Bouayach, northern Morocco, to assess their suitability for various applications. The study employed X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence, infrared spectroscopy, and physicochemical methods. Elemental analysis revealed high silicon and calcium levels alongside iron, aluminum, potassium, titanium, sulfur, manganese, and trace amounts of zinc, nickel, and chromium. These components suggest a clay composed mainly of montmorillonite, calcite, and quartz. The physicochemical characteristics included a neutral pH of 7.6, an average density of 2.04 g/cm3, a 16.01% moisture content, a swelling index above 0.65%, and a 0.64% loss on ignition. The XRD results support these findings. Infrared spectroscopy shows two prominent absorption bands: one at 3620 cm-1, linked to the -OH group, and another indicative of SiO4 and AlO4 tetrahedral units at approximately 400 cm-1 and 600 cm-1, respectively. The comprehensive analysis of this study reveals the clay composition and provides valuable insights into its potential industrial applications. Various elements and specific physicochemical properties suggest that these clays could be valuable in industries requiring specific mineral compositions and characteristics. This work lays the groundwork for future exploration and exploitation of these natural resources, highlighting their potential in diverse fields.
The Production of Biochar from Sewage Sludge Pyrolysis and its Use: A Mini Review
Authors: Touzani Abdelaziz , El Hammoudani Yahya , Haboubi Khadija , Achoukhi Iliass , El Boudammoussi Mustapha , Faiz Hatim , Moudou Mohamed , Dimane Fouad
Published: May 2024

This mini-review, enhanced with a bibliometric analysis, explores biochar production via sewage sludge pyrolysis and its diverse applications, employing a bibliometric method to map the scientific landscape and key research impacts. It outlines the pyrolysis technique, a process converting sewage sludge into biochar by heating in an oxygen-free environment, which minimizes waste while producing valuable biochar. The review assesses biochar’s characteristics-like its large surface area and porosity-beneficial for soil improvement, water filtration, carbon storage, and contaminant removal. It addresses production challenges and environmental benefits, urging further research to fine-tune pyrolysis and broaden biochar’s uses across various sectors.
State of the art of trace metal detection in the mediterranean coastal marine environment, combinatorial approach usingmytilus galloprovincialisand surface sediments
Authors: El Boudammoussi Mustapha , El Hammoudani Yahya , Haboubi Khadija , Achoukhi Iliass , Moudou Mohamed , Faiz Hatim , Touzani Abdelaziz , Dimane Fouad
Published: May 2024

This literature review focuses on the use ofMytilus galloprovincialis, a common Mediterranean bivalve, as a bio-indicator for the detection of trace metals in the Mediterranean coastal marine environment. By analyzing various studies, we examined the ability ofMytilus galloprovincialisto bioaccumulate trace metals and its effectiveness as an environmental monitoring tool. We explored the methodologies employed, the levels of contamination detected, and the ecological and health implications. This review highlights current trends, gaps in knowledge, and proposes recommendations for future research. It offers a global perspective on the importance ofMytilus galloprovincialisin assessing the quality of the Mediterranean coastal marine environment, and highlights its potential role in environmental management strategies.
A scientometric analysis of heavy metals pollution in coastal areas (2003 – 2023)
Authors: Faiz Hatim , El Hammoudani Yahya , Haboubi Khadija , Benaabidate Lahcen , Achoukhi Iliass , Bourjila Abdelhak , El Boudammoussi Mustapha , Moudou Mohamed , Touzani Abdelaziz , Dimane Fouad
Published: May 2024

This systematic review addresses the crucial issue of heavy metal pollution in coastal areas, a growing concern due to its adverse effects on ecosystems and human health. The study compiles and analyzes data from numerous research articles, surveys, and environmental reports to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of heavy metal pollution in coastal regions worldwide. The review aims to identify the most prevalent heavy metals in these areas, their sources, and the pathways through which they enter the coastal environment. It also examines the impact of these pollutants on marine life, ecosystems, and human populations that depend on coastal resources. Specifically, it investigates the mechanisms of metal accumulation and biomagnification in marine food webs, and highlighting potential risks to human health. In addition, the review explores the effectiveness of current mitigation and remediation strategies implemented globally to combat heavy metal contamination. By synthesizing data from various studies, this review aims to provide a holistic understanding of heavy metal pollution in coastal areas, while identifying gaps in current research and suggesting directions for future studies. This comprehensive analysis serves as a valuable resource for environmental scientists, policy-makers, and stakeholders involved in marine conservation and public health.
Assessment of water quality in the Oued Kert (Eastern Rif, Morocco): Physicochemical analyses and heavy metals
Authors: Loukili Hamza , Akodad Mustapha , Baghour Mourad , Rahhou Abderrahmane , Riouchi Ouassila , Ngadi Hamza , Chamrar Abdelkarim , Petrova Petranka , Kolar Mitja , Imperl Jernej , Skalli Ali
Published: May 2024

Water resources are vital for life, yet they are exposed to various risks. In the estern Rif of Morocco, the Oued Kert is a crucial water resource for a large population. Therefore, evaluating their health status is essential to ensure their optimal preservation. In this context, five stations (S1, S2, S3, S4, and S5) were monitored, during the four campaigns (September, December, March, and June 2022), to assess the physicochemical quality of water. In this sense, seven parameters were measured, temperature, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), Chemical oxygen demand (COD), nitrates, and ammonium. In addition, an evaluation of metal contamination was conducted during a single campaign (May 2022) by measuring four elements (Al, Fe, Li, and Mn). The levels of electrical conductivity (greater than 3000 μS cm-1), and COD (greater than 40mg L-1 in S2, S3, and S4) indicate poor water quality, while, the average concentrations of ammonium classify these waters as of moderate quality. The results of metal contamination revealed the presence of iron (Fe) at a concentration of 1.9 mg L-1 in S5, classifying these waters as of moderate quality according to Moroccan water quality standards.
Template matching technique for smart tree detection and counting with UAV imagery
Authors: Ameslek Oumaima , Ameslek  , Zahir Hafida , Mitro Soukaina , El Bachaoui Mostafa
Published: May 2024

The identification of individual trees is an important research topic in forestry, remote sensing, and computer vision. It is a requirement in forest management and monitoring because it provides key forest inventory information, vegetation distribution mapping, vegetation density estimation, change monitoring, and species classification.However, counting trees can be challenging due to the crowded environment, time-consumption, and expensive operation. Remote Sensing methods such as UAV imagery and the development of efficient algorithms can be adapted to estimate and detect individual tree counts in orchards. This paper aims to use the template matching technique to automatically detect olive trees from high resolution drone imagery in the eastern part of Morocco. The algorithm successfully detected and counted 2719 olive trees with a difference of less than 233 trees with manual detection. The results of detecting and counting the individual olive trees were evaluated using several parameters: an Fscore of 94%, with a recall of 92% and a precision of 98%, which are satisfactory.
Defect mode properties of an acoustic structure made up of periodic expansion chambers containing defects
Authors: El Malki Mohamed , Antraoui Ilyas , Khettabi Ali
Published: May 2024

Noise pollution is an environmental menace in agricultural, industrial, commercial, and residential facilities of all countries around the globe particularly developing countries. This paper examines noise reduction of an acoustic band gap structure made from expansion chambers. The interface response predictions of the transmission loss are presented and compared with the experiment, and the boundary element method (BEM) data obtained from the literature showing good agreement at low frequencies. A wider band gap with and stronger muffling effects at a lower frequencies is shown, which depends on the geometry of the expansion chamber and the periodicity. Furthermore, the periodicity is broken by the introduction of defects to analyse the narrow frequency transmission bands within the band gaps. In this work, the defect is artificially produced and controlled by the length and/or the cross-section of the central waveguide segment. The influence of dimension parameters on the wave suppression band gaps is analyzed. We show that the defect mode transmission moves within band gaps. It location can be controlled by the dimension of the defective expansion chamber. The closest to the middle of the band gap, the narrowest becomes. The results presented in this work can help to guide the achievement of broader acoustic band gaps in waveguide systems.
Environmental Awareness in the Oriental region of Morocco: A review
Authors: Maaroufi Fatiha , El Malki Mohamed , Arabi Mourad
Published: May 2024

Our environment is in the process of being profoundly degraded, following global planetary change. This degradation is caused by the abusive use of natural resources, by an ever-increasing world population, in order to meet needs. Economic and social ever greedier. One of the Millennium Development Goals signed by UN Member States in September 2000 is the preservation of the environment. To increase awareness on the importance of the preservation of the environment and maintaining the longterm exploitation of resources while maximizing social benefits and minimizing environmental impacts, this paper highlights the most important problems faced the natural resources in Morocco with an example of its Oriental region. We also share a description of one of the important efforts that have been made in the context of environment awareness in the Oriental region.
Association between social media use and internet addiction among nursing and health technology students: Case study at the Higher Institute of Nursing and Health Technology of Oujda (ISPITSO)
Authors: Essadki Samia , Lamsyah Rajae , Fourtassi Maryam
Published: May 2024

Nowadays, the use of the Internet and social networks has become a widespread practice, seen as a means of meeting various needs necessary for adolescent development. However, excessive use can lead to serious problems such as Problematic Internet Use (PIU), which can adversely affect academic performance. To determine the association between the level of PIU among students at the Higher Institutes of Nursing Professions and Health Techniques of Oujda (HINPHTO) in Morocco and the average duration of internet use, number of social networks, and use of online games, a cross-sectional and analytical study was conducted among 558 students enrolled in the Bachelor’s degree course at the same institution. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire consisting of two parts: the first part focused on data regarding social media use, and the second included Young’s (1998) cyber addiction test. The average duration of Internet use was 5 hours and 21 minutes per day (SD=3 hours and 25 minutes). The level of internet addiction is significantly associated with the number of hours spent on the Internet, as well as the number of social networks and online games among nursing and health technology students. These results can serve as a basis for implementing preventive measures to protect nursing students from the potentially harmful effects of excessive Internet use, social networking, and online gaming.
Hydrodynamic modeling study on a sector of the Timis River
Authors: Blezniuc Roxana-Iuliana , Girbaciu Cristian Adrian , Girbaciu Irina Alina , Lazar Gheorgh , Stefanescu Camelia , Florescu Constantin
Published: May 2024

To determine the water flow regime through the minor and major bed of the Timiș River, in the area associated with the studied sector, (levels, flow rates, hydrodynamic slopes, flood zones), as well as determining the discharge capacity of the bed on this analysis section, it was necessary to carry out a discrete numerical modeling in different variants of water flow transit. The assessment of the existing situation was based on the current topographic elevations materialized on the situation plan, the cross-sections and the maximum flows corresponding to the arranged regime, by the Waters National Administration. The analysis sector of the Timiș River was divided into segments (40) limited at the ends by (41) cross- sections obtained in accordance with the actual topographic elevations. The numerical modelling was carried out with the specialized program HECRAS version 4.1 and version 6.3.1. The calibration of the numerical model was carried out at the transit of the historical hydrograph where the maximum level reaches the recorded value Hmax and corresponds to a maximum value of the flow rate Qmax. Next, the transit of the synthetic flood hydrograph was carried out resulting in the identification of the flooded areas on the discrete numerical model as well as where the flow reaches the maximum value.
Calibration and verification of creep parameters for concrete
Authors: Jindra Daniel , Hradil Petr , Kala Jiří
Published: May 2024

Concrete is a material which undergoes slow increasing deformation while subjected to persistent mechanical stress. This phenomenon is known as creep. In concrete material, creep occurs at all stress levels. Additional deformation of concrete structures at the end of their design working life caused by creep is usually two to three times of the immediate elastic deformation value, but might be even more in some cases. The value is dependent on many parameters, e.g. concrete grade, cement class, ambient environment relative humidity, geometry of the structure (drying surface of concrete in contact with air) and also the age of concrete at the time of loading. According to corresponding European standard, the effects of creep are evaluated using creep coefficient, and should be considered for verification of serviceability limit states, and if significant, also at ultimate limit states. In order to evaluate the creep effects in geometrically more complex structures, numerical finite element (FEM) analyses might be conducted. In commercially available software ANSYS, there is a library of several implicit creep equations, with several input parameters. These parameters need to be calibrated in order to match the assumptions of the creep effects over time in accordance with the corresponding European standard. In this study, calibration process of European standard concrete C35/45 parameters for selected implicit creep equation from ANSYS library is presented. The parameters are calibrated for two different ambient relative humidity (RH) levels, 78.8% and 90%, each for concrete loaded in 28 days (also 90 days for RH 78.8% and 50 days for RH 90%) after its casting, and suitable for finite element analysis of creep effects within the first year after loading of the concrete structure. The calibration process is split into two parts, analytical one conducted in table processor, where approximate estimations of suitable parameter values are determined. The second part consist of the subsequent optimization process in OptiSLang software, where the optimal parameter values are determined in order to achieve the best match between the time dependent Eurocode standard creep coefficient and the creep coefficient based on the results of one solid element uniaxial compression test in ANSYS finite element software. The obtained parameters are then verified on an analysis of a simply-supported concrete beam modelled of solid 3D finite elements. The values of selected creep equation parameters are summarized in the table, and might be used in the subsequent ongoing research.
The modal analysis of laminated composite cylinders under axial tension loading in ANSYS
Authors: Kovalovs Andrejs , Chate Andris , Kulakov Vladimir
Published: May 2024

Natural frequencies and vibration modes of laminated composite cylinders were calculated under axial tension loading by the finite element method using ANSYS Mechanical software package. Two types of axial tensile load were modelled: a suspended weight and a static axial load in the zone of weight attachment into the cylinder. The features of the modal analysis of a prestressed system depending on the type of applied tensile load were analyzed. The numerical results obtained were compared and the possible reasons for their discrepancy were explained.
Life cycle cost modelling using 6D BIM in construction: A comparative study
Authors: Hanák Tomáš , Mathoi Thomas , Alb Marianne , Schachner Katharina , Výskala Miloslav , Mikulík Michal , Korytárová Jana
Published: May 2024

Life Cycle Costing (LCC) and Building Information Modelling (BIM) are among the important current trends in the construction industry. LCC contributes to the objective management and measurement of costs during the entire lifetime of a building and BIM represents one of the digitalization efforts related to the Construction 4.0 initiative. Because life cycle cost modelling using 6D BIM has the potential to bring significant positive effects such as cost savings and reduced environmental burden, this paper aims to study the development of this concept in the Czech Republic and Austria. The legislative environment, the actual usage of LCC and BIM in practice, as well as problems faced by the Czech and Austrian construction industries, are discussed in this comparative study. The results show that the practical level of use is still relatively low in both countries, yet specific differences were identified, for example those related to the definition of legislative requirements and the availability of standards and specifications.
Analysis of traffic conflicts at big intersection types in urban areas
Authors: Lerch Elisabeth , Schäfer Petra K.
Published: May 2024

In the past decades, planners developed intersections for the caroriented city. Above all, they should handle motor vehicle traffic efficiently. Urban areas currently have a high proportion of private cars and, as a result, congestion and high CO2 emissions. At the same time, the importance of and demand for sustainable mobility is increasing. Pedestrians and cyclists are particularly vulnerable as the weakest road users. The goal of transport policy is to achieve “Vision Zero,” i.e., no serious injuries or fatalities in road traffic (Federal Ministry of Digital Affairs and Transport, 2022). Many accidents occur primarily at intersections and junctions. Road traffic authorities in Germany generally use accident data from the accident atlas as the basis for evaluating the road safety of intersections. Planners can improve traffic safety by avoiding critical situations. To this end, an intensive study of the development of conflicts as a precursor to accidents can provide further insights. The research in this project shows that such data on traffic conflicts are not available to road authorities. The project will investigate which and how many conflicts between pedestrian, bicycle, and motor vehicle traffic frequently occur at individual intersection types, such as signalized intersections or traffic circles. The initial goal of the project is to develop a survey concept. In the future, planners should be able to use this to quickly identify risks to pedestrian and bicycle traffic at the types of intersections studied. With the help of vehicle sensor data (e.g. from emergency brake assistants), further findings on the frequency and course of conflicts are to be derived. In addition, a methodology would be developed that will enable traffic planners and municipalities to carry out risk management for intersections in the future in order to improve traffic safety and promote local mobility. From the results of the conflict analysis, we will derive recommendations for transport planning and policy. An action guide will then present the recommendations. The end of the project will be in summer 2024.
Places of memory and contemplation: The rational and the emotions as fundamental elements to the conception of architecture integrated in the landscape
Authors: Pires Amílcar Gil , Frutuoso Viviana
Published: May 2024

Throughout the history of Western culture, landscape has been transformed according to the search for the representation of an image of paradise, and it has acquired and absorbed principles dictated by the mental, cultural, social and political framework in which it is involved. Suburban villas are contextualized interpretations of ways of using and occupying the landscape, organized and built by cultural and economic elites, creating places where landscape and architecture complement each other in a hasty manner. The research focused on the suburban Villa of Renaissance influence as a reference and on framing and contextualizing it in the historiography and culture of Architecture and Landscape in Portuguese historical areas. The evolution of the concepts of suburban Villa, garden, villegiattura and ideal Villa was addressed. The research was conducted on the relationship between the mind, the rational, and the emotions of those who inhabit/perceive space and those who design it. From the demonstration of the adequacy of the same structuring, compositional and programmatic principles resulting from a cultural and historical evolution to new times and regional cultures, and their framing in times of artistic and Cultural Revolution, the same conceptual principles, spatial orders and types of relationship with the landscape were adapted to avant-garde compositional grammars in other architectural types and urban structures. This study proves the existence of an important contribution to Modern and Contemporary Architecture and Landscape Architecture, of an architectural culture synthesized in the analysis of the cases treated. A contribution also to teaching and professional practice, from the identification of recent works that reveal the same principles, spatial orders, approach to place and relationship with the landscape.
Enhanced pedagogical methodologies for facilitating the progression of the Master’s final exam between the professor and the student, focusing on the project titled: Vita Nova - The rehabilitation of nature, architecture, and the spirit
Authors: Maia Mafalda , Baptista-Bastos Miguel
Published: May 2024

An article that unites theory and practice, architecture as a union between a final-year architecture student and a professor or advisor at the Faculty of Architecture of the University of Lisbon, throughout the course and throughout the monitoring of the final master's project. This accompaniment began in the first semester of the fourth year, and since then it has been a construction between teacher and student where a series of pedagogical intentions have been explored, from the deep reading and correlation between architecture and nature through the graphic process recorded daily to the most appropriate rehabilitation methodologies in the explored architecture. This whole system was divided into several phases, all of them divided by the themes and chapters addressed in the project. This work culminated in a deeper understanding of the methods of organization and design of a different work. The uninterrupted monitoring by the teacher towards the student resulted in numerous debates and different conceptions, so that the work in question had the best possible result. This procedure resulted in a continuous search for a clearer understanding through pedagogical incitement, guiding the work so that it took the most appropriate course for the student's project. Nature and rehabilitation were the central themes of all the work, where the aim was to establish qualities that cut across the two areas of knowledge. The main objective has always been the research for architecture and rehabilitation and the deep relationship between the built architecture, the one that is intended to be built, and the surrounding nature, through the study for the best possible conclusion of the Master's Final Proof.
Water related heritage. The use of water for production of final or semi-final products in the parish of Cernache do Bonjardim, Central Portugal
Authors: Goncalves Marta Marcal , Pérez-Cano María Teresa , Rosendahl Stefan
Published: May 2024

The use of water as a driving force for the production of goods is very old. Over time, techniques and constructions were developed to make the most of water energy. There are elements that use water energy to obtain final or semi-final products, such as horticultural, touristic and thermal products. In the parish of Cernache do Bonjardim, Central Portugal, there are several types of this kind of elements, such as dams and hotels related to agricultural production and tourism. The main objectives of this article are to characterize and analyze the current situation of this heritage and its dissemination, enhancement and subsequent protection. The methods used were based on bibliographic, photographic, cartographic and in situ surveys. The approach comprises the survey of the elements mentioned above, subsequent cataloguing and analysis regarding their objectives and their geographic distribution. With this analysis it is possible to group the elements into categories that facilitate their characterization. Up to the preparation of this article, no document or record was found about the described elements in the studied area, which is a major limitation of the investigation. The originality of this work is that this type of heritage has not yet been approached in the territory under study. The article contributes to another study about this parish. Being a vernacular heritage and already with few existing elements, it is intended to give to it the value it deserves and that it is appreciated as a collective memory of the territory where it is inserted.
Public space as a palimpsest: Revitalising Yukari neighbourhood conservation area
Authors: Akarca Hande , Coşkuner Merve
Published: May 2024

The concept of palimpsest space in architecture is used to describe spaces where past and present meet and overlap, carrying traces of the past and entities of the present at the same time. Therefore, palimpsest spaces are valuable in creating a sense of belonging by preserving the memory of society. This study examines the Yukarı Neighbourhood Women’s Market, where traces of the past intersect with new uses of public space. Yukarı Neighbourhood used to be the commercial centre of Akcakoca until the early 1900s, and there was a weekly street market where only women could participate. Over time, the town centre lost its importance and its inhabitants, and the neighbourhood became almost abandoned. In 1996, the Yukari Neighbourhood and its surroundings were declared a conservation area. However, as the number of dilapidated buildings increased, the area attracted tourists when a local women's organisation started a street market in the same area as before, in 2013. This study examined this local revitalisation process and its outcomes through literature, city maps, zoning plans, population records, photographs and interviews. It was found that the new market is a successful attempt to revitalise the area. The market is well accepted by the public and supported by the local authority. This suggests that local communities have a vital role in regeneration, and that the reuse of public spaces can contribute to a sustainable future for conservation areas.
Is Egypt leaving no one behind? Tracing Egypt’s progress in SDG indicators
Authors: Ghalib Hebatullah
Published: May 2024

The Sustainable Development Goals SDGs are the latest of a series of global attempts by the United Nations to persuade nations around the globe to work towards a more sustainable future. In 2019, the Egyptian ministry for planning and economic development signed a partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to create a series of reports on Sustainable Development Goals SDGs localization in Egypt. The series consists of a report for each of the 27 governorates covering the progress in SDG indicators. Each report identifies SDGs indicators and their targets tailored according to the governorate’s conditions. This paper traces the progress in these indicators with special focus on Egypt’s governorates with the largest vulnerable populations namely El-Menya, Sohag and Assiut governorates in Upper Egypt. The results show that the rate of progress varies across governorates and indicators. A notable remark is that not all seventeen SDGs are included in the report. The report discusses only eleven of the SDGs while disregarding the remaining six i.e. goals 9,10, 12, 13,14, 15. This in itself can be an indicator of the need for more progress in these areas specifically. Moreover, in the goals discussed in the report not all the indicators proposed by the UN are introduced and reported. The paper shows that Egypt’s most vulnerable governorates are working on achieving the SDGs but still have a long way to go.
GIS-based decision support tool for evidence-based policy making for biodiversity protection
Authors: Husar Milan , Hajduk Jakub , Ondrejicka Vladimir
Published: May 2024

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) based decision support systems can play a crucial role in protecting biodiversity in spatial planning. These systems use spatial data and analytical tools to help decision-makers identify areas of high biodiversity value and prioritize conservation efforts. By integrating data on species distribution, habitat suitability, and land use, GIS decision support systems can also identify potential threats to biodiversity and assess the impact of different management scenarios. Additionally, GIS decision support systems can be used to monitor the effectiveness of conservation efforts and identify areas where additional action is needed. GIS decision support systems provide a powerful tool for integrating biodiversity considerations into spatial planning and can help to ensure that conservation efforts are targeted to where they will be most effective. In the area of biodiversity protection, we are also faced with two phenomena: (1) overflow of data and information from various countries and areas, supported by open data policies and technical solutions (e.g. GIS) for producing and storing copious amounts of data; and (2) challenge to navigate in the data and incompatibility of data due to various methodologies, scales etc. For policy makers it is increasingly difficult to produce evidence-based policies as it is relatively easy to find arguments to support multiple attitudes and measures. The aim of this paper is to present a tool produced by Interreg DTP SaveGREEN and ConnectGREEN Projects aimed at fostering evidence-based policy making in the field of biodiversity protection. The Decision Support Tool, an interactive GIS-based support tool prepared as a help mainly in the pre-planning phase of the decision-making process about new investments in the territory. Objective of this tool is to help nature conservationists and spatial planners to provide evidence for policy makers in the policy making preparation processes aimed at protecting the biodiversity of Carpathians.
The coating as a strategy of economic reactivation: The case of the historic center of Cuenca
Authors: Vicuña Paola Alejandra Villavicencio , Ullauri María del Cisne Aguirre
Published: May 2024

The Historic Center of Cuenca is relevant for being the segment that originated the current city of Cuenca and, as a scenario that has been periodically coupled to the demanded economic activities; in recent years, the intervention carried out in several buildings has been executed with the purpose of rescuing the brick as a representative material of the city. As evidence, the present work registers 7 examples that, until the year 2022, have resorted to the elimination of the facade masonry cladding in order to leave brick as a visible material; based on this, 3 cases are prioritized and studied from implantation, context, architectural structure and the result of the intervention. The comparative analysis allows the identification of general characteristics and, subsequently, the hierarchy and quantification considering the state of the property, materiality, contextual influence and use; in a complementary way, the regulations and guidelines of current intervention are combined to design 3 types of protocols; 1) management, 2) technical execution and 3) control and maintenance, capable of rescuing the architectural identity of the city through the potentiation of brick. The results show that the interventions carried out are appropriate in the contemporary context, since they have generated a direct link with economic activities and aesthetically contribute to the urban image by adding values. In turn, the multi-parameter evaluation applied ratifies the previous results from the three case studies (95/100 case 1, 99/100 case 2 and 83/100 case 3). It is concluded that the interventions carried out are an alternative to enhance the economic use of the buildings in the CHC and could be repeated in others as a practice of economic reactivation, without ignoring that it may be subject to technical difficulties for the conservation of the brick.
Buildings made of massive timber logs with a derogation from the application of technical conditions for traditional masonry technologies
Authors: Fedorczak-Cisak Małgorzata , Haupt Patrycja , Markiewicz-Zahorski Przemysław
Published: May 2024

Timber log walls are a unique form of construction - erected from solid material, they are both a building structure and a thermal barrier. Walls of wooden logs have numerous advantages, especially favourable physical and mechanical properties, including insulation and thermal capacity. The technical conditions, which are the Polish interpretation of the Nearly Zero Energy Building (nZEB) building, which a newly designed building must meet, must meet 2 conditions simultaneously: the value of the EP index, which determines the annual calculated demand for non-renewable primary energy for heating, ventilation, cooling and preparation of domestic hot water for the entire building, and adequate thermal insulation of the external walls. Calculating the thermal insulation of a wood partition, relying only on thermal conductivity coefficients without considering other properties of the material, does not reflect the true insulating properties of wood. The lack of research on the insulating properties of wood, and thus the lack of national technical and installation requirements for log houses seriously limits the development of this type of construction and forces to undertake reliable research and development work in this area. The proposed introduction in this type of building of the methodology of the so-called Integrated Energy Design (IED) allows to carry out multi-criteria analysis of design variants at the stage of the virtual model in the BIM standard, in terms of the final energy efficiency of the building. Conducting various types of variant analyses and simulations allows to achieve optimal energy efficiency and to verify and correct the adopted solutions. The high energy efficiency of the building demonstrated by such simulations can be the basis for a deviation from the current regulations, which will allow the implementation of newly designed buildings in massive log technology, without the need for additional thermal insulation. As a result, it will be possible to preserve the unique architectural expression of buildings erected with this technology, with visible massive timber logs both on the exterior facades and on the interior.
Occurrence and genetic characterization of Enterocytozoon bieneusi in pet dogs in Yunnan Province, China
Authors: Jian Jinhua , Zi Jinrong , Wang Yaxue , Yang Yaming , Su Yaxing , Yao Lan , Li Benfu , Peng Xiaoxue , Cao Jianping , Shen Yujuan , Liu Aiqin
Published: May 2024

Enterocytozoon bieneusi is the most common microsporidian species in humans and can affect over 200 animal species. Considering possible increasing risk of human E. bieneusi infection due to close contact with pet dogs and identification of zoonotic E. bieneusi genotypes, 589 fresh fecal specimens of pet dogs were collected from Yunnan Province, China to determine the occurrence of E. bieneusi, characterize dog-derived E. bieneusi isolates, and assess their zoonotic potential at the genotype level. Enterocytozoon bieneusi was identified and genotyped by PCR and sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of the ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene. Twenty-nine specimens (4.9%) were positive. A statistical difference was observed in occurrence rates of E. bieneusi in pet dogs among 11 sampling sites by Fisher’s exact test. Fifteen genotypes were identified and all of them phylogenetically belonged to zoonotic group 1, including four known genotypes (EbpC, D, Peru 8, and Henan-III) and 11 novel genotypes. Genotype Henan-III was reported in dogs for the first time. The finding of known genotypes found previously in humans and novel genotypes falling into zoonotic group 1 indicates that dogs may play a role in the transmission of E. bieneusi to humans in the investigated areas.
Genetische Testung bei Kardiomyopathien: ein Update für die Praxis
Authors: Trenkwalder Teresa , Knoll Katharina , Schunkert Heribert
Published: May 2024

Die rasante Verbesserung der DNA-Sequenzierung hat die genetische Diagnostik als zentrale Säule in der ätiologischen Abklärung von Kardiomyopathien etabliert. Neben der Diagnosesicherung kann so bei manchen Kardiomyopathien auch eine individuelle Risikobewertung und Differenzialtherapie möglich werden. Darüber hinaus ist die genetische Diagnostik von zentraler Bedeutung für die Untersuchung weiterer Familienmitglieder. Für eine effektive Nutzung dieser Technologie ist eine sorgfältige Abwägung der Indikationen, eine genaue Auswahl der zu testenden Gene und eine fundierte Interpretation der Ergebnisse entscheidend.
DGN-Handlungsempfehlung (S1-Leitlinie) – Version 3
Authors: Schmidt M. , Hohberg M. , Felcht M. , Kühn T. , Eichbaum M. , Krause B. J. , Zöphel B. K. , Kotzerke J. ,   Deutsche Dermatologische Gesellschaft (DDG), vertreten durch,   Prof. Dr. M. Felcht (Klinik für Dermatologie, Venerologie und Allergologie, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim),   Deutsche Gesellschaft für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe (DGGG), vertreten durch,   Prof. Dr. T. Kühn (Klinik für Frauenheilkunde und Geburtshilfe, Klinikum Esslingen) und,   Prof. Dr. M. Eichbaum (Klinik für Gynäkologie und gynäkologische Onkologie, Helios Dr.-Horst-Schmidt-Kliniken Wiesbaden)
Published: May 2024

Die Autoren veröffentlichen eine Verfahrensanweisung zur szintigrafischen Lokalisation von Wächterlymphknoten beim malignen Melanom, beim Mammakarzinom, beim Penis- und Vulvakarzinom sowie bei Kopf-Hals-Tumoren und beim Prostatakarzinom. Wesentliche Ziele der szintigrafischen Wächterlymphknotendiagnostik bestehen in der Minimierung des Operationsausmaßes und der postoperativen Morbidität sowie der Optimierung der histopathologischen Aufarbeitung durch Fokussierung auf die relevanten Lymphknoten. Die Wächterlymphknotenszintigrafie trifft selbst keine Aussage zu einem evtl. tumorösen Befall und ist nicht indiziert, wenn bereits eine lymphogene (Ausnahme Prostata-Ca) oder Fernmetastasierung diagnostiziert ist. Es werden Vorgehensweisen zur Durchführung zusammengestellt, die zum Ziel haben, den oder die Wächterlymphknoten zuverlässig und mit hoher Nachweisrate typischerweise in einem frühen Stadium einer Tumorerkrankung zu detektieren. Neue Aspekte in dieser überarbeiteten Leitlinie sind neue Radiopharmaka wie Tilmanocept und Tc-99m-PSMA sowie die SPECT/CT, die besonders bei Genitaltumoren und im Kopf-Hals-Bereich die anatomische Orientierung erleichtert. Abgewertet wird die Bedeutung der initialen dynamischen Lymphszintigrafie beim Mammakarzinom. Die Strahlenexposition des Patienten/der Patientin ist so niedrig, dass Schwangerschaft keine grundsätzliche Kontraindikation darstellt. Bei Schwangerschaft wird bevorzugt ein 1-Tages-Protokoll eingesetzt. Aufgrund der sehr geringen Strahlenexposition von < 1 mSv/Jahr müssen auch Operateur, OP-Personal und Pathologe selbst bei häufiger Durchführung der Sentinel-Lymphonodektomie (SLNE) nicht als beruflich strahlenexponierte Personen geführt werden. Aspekte der Qualitätssicherung wurden neu aufgenommen (Szintigramm, Überprüfung der Messsonde, 6 h SLN-Kurs für Operateure, zertifizierte Brustzentren, Überprüfung durch die Ärztlichen Stellen).