bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physico-Morphological Characteristics and Oxidative Markers of Fresh Semen of Gir Bulls
Authors: Prajapati Sunnykumar G. , Vala Karsan B. , Singh Vivek Kumar , Solanki Gajendra B. , Chavda Bhakti P.
Published: September 2022

The present investigation was undertaken on four mature Gir bulls (4-6 years) maintained at University farm,  Junagadh for 4 months during hot summer season. Semen (n=6 ejaculate/bull) was collected using artificial  vagina once a week from each bull. The fresh ejaculates were evaluated for physical attributes and oxidative  stress markers in the seminal plasma. The overall mean values recorded based on 24 ejaculates for ejaculate  volume, sperm concentration, mass motility (0-5 scale), individual motility, sperm viability, sperm abnormality,  plasma membrane integrity (HOST reactive sperm), and acrosome integrity were 6.20 ± 1.27 mL, 1316.83 ±  155.07 million/ mL, 3.75 ± 0.20, 84.83 ± 0.94 %, 87.58 ± 1.07 %, 9.63 ± 0.83 %, 79.58 ± 1.01 % and 91.21 ± 0.52  %, respectively. There was a significant P<0.001) difference in ejaculate volume, sperm concentration and sperm  abnormality between bulls. The levels of oxidative stress parameters, viz. lipid peroxidation and glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity in the seminal plasma were 5.51 ± 0.26 μmol/mL and 16.30 ± 2.14 nmol/ mL/min, respectively. Individual motility, viability, HOST reactive spermatozoa, and acrosomal integrity were positively correlated, suggesting that any one or two attributeslike motility or HOS test can predict the semen quality. The  semen quality generally was in normal physiological range including oxidative markers even during heat stress.
Effect of Dietary Inclusion of Neem Leaf Powder on Growth Performance, Nutrient Utilization, and Haemato-Biochemical Parameters of Japanese Quail
Authors: Prakash Bhanu , Mondal Bidhan C. , Palod Jyoti , Kumar Anil , Manjulata  , Kumar Ripusudan
Published: September 2022

A feeding trial was conducted to discern the influence of dietary incorporation of neem (Azadirachta indica) leaf powder on growth  performance and haemato-biochemical parameters ofJapanese quail for 6 weeks. A metabolic trial was conducted during the last week  of the feeding trial to assess nutrient utilization. A total number of 144-day-old chicks of Japanese quail were randomly assigned into  four treatment groups, with 36 Japanese quail per treatment having three replicates of 12 birds each. Birds of treatment T1 (control  group ) were fed a basal diet (starter and finisher), whereas in treatment groups T2, T3, and T4, the basal diet was incorporated with  0.25%, 0.50%, and 1.00% neem leaf powder, respectively. Results showed supplementation of 0.25% neem leaf powder improved the  performance of Japanese quail in terms of body weight gain and performance index during the whole trial period. Nutrient utilization  among various treatment groups was similar. The hematological values showed no significant a lterations i n d ifferent groups. Th e  biochemical attributes among the treatment groups were similar, but a considerable decrease in the level of cholesterol and glucose was  observed with an increasing level of neem leaf powder in the diet. Activities of ALT, AST, and ALP were lowest in the T4 group. It can be  concluded that 1 percent neem leaf powder can be supplemented in feed for good health status and desired performance of the birds.
Detection of Toxoplasma Gondii in Cats and Seroprevalence in Women
Authors: Khayat Fadia A. A. Al-
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to investigate the potential threat of domestic and stray cats to public health in transmitting the toxoplasmosis. One  hundred and sixty samples (40 blood samples from owner, 40 blood samples from non owner women, 40 fecal samples from their  cats, and 40 fecal samples from stray cats) were analyzed. All blood samples were subjected to IgM, IgG rapid test for toxoplasmosis  detection, while the fecal samples from cat were subjected to microscopic examination for the presence of the oocyst using direct wet  mount as well as flotation method. The results revealed the total infection rate in women was 23.75% (19/80) with significant differences  between cats owner (30.00%) and non- cats owner (17.50%). The IgG antibody was detected in 68.42% (13/19) amounting 8/19 (42.10%)  in cats owner and 5/19 (26.31%) in non-cats owner, and the presence of both IgG and IgM antibodies was recorded in 6/19 (31.57%) of  the infected women (21.05% and 10.52% for cats owner and non-cats owner, respectively). The total infection rate for cats was 16.25%  (13/80), with highly significant differences p<0.001 between domestic cats (10.00%) and stray cats (22.50%).
Effect of Sexed and Conventional Semen on Pregnancy Rate in Murrah Buffaloes under Field Condition
Authors: Sawant Sujata S. , Patil Manjusha G. , Ingawale Maheshkumar V. , Hase Pankaj B.
Published: September 2022

The study was conducted on twenty Murrah buffaloes selected at random from the field to evaluate the effect of sexed and conventional  semen on pregnancy rate. The buffaloes selected were initially treated with pre-synchronization medicines. The buffaloes in spontaneous  estrus with vaginal discharge and frequent micturition were divided into two groups containing ten animals. The buffaloes from group I  and II were inseminated at mid-estrus with sexed and conventional semen, respectively. The average pregnancy rate and female  calves born for AI with sex-sorted semen were 40% and 100% and for AI with conventional semen 50% and 40%, respectively. The  pregnancy rate was lower, whereas the rate of female calves born was greater after AI with sex-sorted semen than conventional  semen.
Dystocia due to Dicephalic Parapagus Tetrabrachius Tetrapus Twin Monster in a Cow: A case Report
Authors: Pansuriya Dhaval , Patel Chirag I. , Patel Hardik , Bhalodia Sanjay
Published: September 2022

Monsters are developmental abnormalities that distort organs and body systems. Developmental abnormalities of the ovum, embryo  or fetus occur in all species of domestic animals. Monstrosity is a disturbance of the development that involves various organs and  systems which can cause great distortion of the individual (Vegad, 2007). The monstrosities are associated with either infectious diseases  or congenital disabilities (Arthur et al., 2001), which may or may not interfere with birth. Abnormal duplication and/or disruption of  the inner cell mass in an embryo give rise to congenital fetal abnormalities with partial duplication of body structures. Duplication of  cranial portion of the fetus is more common than caudal portion (Roberts, 2004). It is important to know various types of monsters in  animals that usually cause dystocia, which cannot be easily delivered and require a Caesarean section or a fetotomy mostly (Patil et  al., 2004; Sharma, 2006). The incidence of fetal monsters, though rare, have been reported in cows (Khasatiya et al., 2009; Jerome et al.,  2010; Ravikumar et al., 2012), in buffaloes (Dhami et al., 2000; Prasad et al., 2006; Sharma et al., 2010) and in goats (Pandit et al., 1994).  This communication reports a rare case of conjoined twin monster (Dicephalus Paracopagus Tetrabrachius Tetrapus Dicaudatus) in a  pluriparous crossbred cow.
Casa Nautilus Solar – Organic contemporary Architecture based on Vernacular Heritage
Authors: Jebens-zirkel imm Petra , Zirkel Zirkel Alfred Johann
Published: September 2022

The common ground between vernacular architecture and contemporary ecological organic architecture (Ecohabitar, 2011pp21) emerges from regional activity adapted to local climate while using natural materials from the surrounding area. A healthy environment is created through the principles of Habitat Biology, which is based on the empirical wisdom of past generations. These actions were, and still are, highly sustainable and regenerative through a “closed circuit” of resources without any damage to the ecosystem. We propose a family home with building biology criteria and bio-climatic design, based on the use of high quality building materials: load bearing walls of sun-dried earth blocks with hemp insulation, earth and lime renders with natural paints, a timber structure and an organic green roof, working together to create healthy, pleasant spaces. This house sets the stage for a life project in a rural setting, focused on a farming and livestock initiative. Independence from the water and energy grids is made possible by rainwater harvesting, a well, a compost toilet, grey water treatment with aquatic plants and the use of renewable energy with simple technology (photovoltaic panels, thermal panels and a heavy Kachelofen-type wood burning stove). The design and form are adapted to the agricultural landscape and emerge from the interior and exterior needs of its inhabitants: solar orientation, exposed construction systems, the proportions of the golden section and appropriate interior and exterior colours.
Inhabiting and Building la cour: Introduction to the Study of Mossi Verna-cular Architecture from a Gender Perspective
Authors: Lidón de Miguel María , Mileto Camilla , Vegas Fernando , Hueto Escobar Alicia
Published: September 2022

The study of vernacular architecture allows to know a culture through its domestic constructions. It also permits learning from its values to apply them in new architecture. In order to achieve both objectives, it seems pertinent to gain an in-depth knowledge of the reality, something which involves questioning what this traditional habitat means for each member of the community. Gender, as a category of analysis, is applied in a research on the vernacular architecture of the Mossi culture and its transformation, as an initial approach to the study of the role which women have played in relation to this traditional habitat. This analysis was based on a literature review which was subsequently contrasted with data collected during two stays in the village of Baasneere (Burkina Faso) in 2018. The study, which considers the role women have played in the configuration, construction and use of dwellings, shows two opposing aspects of the house: its essence as a setting for tradition-based power relations and a flexible nature capable of easily accommodating change. Finally, the research raises the possibility of investigating how women's relationship with inhabiting and building the house varies with the modernisation of architecture.
Cataloguing to maintain and preserve: new studies for the knowledge of the vernacular characters of the ancient water mills in central Sicily
Authors: Cardaci Alessio , Versaci Antonella , Fauzìa Luca Renato , Russo Michele
Published: September 2022

In the centre of Sicily, hidden in a rural landscape that has changed significantly in the last decades, remains the traces of an old economic and productive reality: that of traditional water mills. Even if, often in precarious conservation conditions, these vestiges show an unsuspected resilience. They embody tangible and intangible values worthy of being known, protected, valued, and shared. In this sense, the research that this paper introduces aims to identify and re-read the numerous structures that still exist, to find effective strategies to safeguard and promote this important vernacular heritage: a silent guardian of uses and customs, traditional methodologies, materials and building systems. All elements that show a wise use of native resources and are the result of functional choices aimed at optimizing production. The paper presents the first results of the study, namely the cataloguing activity carried out in the Gela River valley. The methodology used is based on the development of innovative systems of inventory and sharing on the web of the identified patrimony. The activities aimed to create a digital infrastructure capable of also improving the sustainable use of assets scattered throughout the territory.
In the shadow of Vesuvius. Sustainable and bioclimatic lessons from a vernacular heritage
Authors: Vitagliano Elena
Published: September 2022

Downstream of the Somma-Vesuvius volcanic complex, the countryside records the flourishing of communities based on agricultural economies that have been facilitated, since the early modern history, by the fertility of the land, the mildness of the climate and the favourable location with respect to the natural routes of communication. The adaptation and dialogue between this territory and man led to the realization of the so-called “masserie”, the articulated rural artefacts, mostly developed on a primitive compositional structure at court, in which residential and working functions seamlessly coexist. The paper discusses the sustainable and bioclimatic solutions for building and running evidence of this volcanic vernacular system, to inquire how the constructive knowledge, based on the awareness of the properties of local materials, has given solutions to various needs. Indeed, the peasants used the different characteristics of the various igneous rocks, exploited to their maximum performance capabilities, to realize rubble masonry, light vaults, outdoor flooring, and even fixed furniture. In the same functional and “green” resource use, the plan layout follows a distribution corresponding to the best use of the sun and its effects on environmental optimization, and the rainwater collection system connects multiple wells to the underground tank whose position, spatial conformation and materials are expertly engineered. The study finally deepens a case study (the masseria of the Duke of Salza) representing the application of local building tradition in terms of construction features and typological aspects, and the evidence of the history and vulnerabilities of the Vesuvian land. In addition, the specificities of the masseria sample allow mastering the functioning of the whole building organism and the quality of the finishes, which demonstrate how, in their formal simplicity, these vernacular “monuments” were soberly embellished and complexly designed.
Contributions of the vernacular heritage in the current city. Case study: Santo Domingo Neighborhood, Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Chiapas, Mexico.
Authors: Parra Zebadúa Amalia , Genis Vinyals Mariona , Ocampo García Lourdes , Villers Aispuro Roberto , Zenteno Hernández Manuel Alejandro , Escamirosa Montalvo Lorenzo Franco , Zebadúa Velasco Sergio Naraín
Published: September 2022

The situation of marginality and vulnerability in the historic center of the capital of Chiapas is latent despite its location in the area of the greatest supply of services and urban facilities of the city. Specifically in Santo Domingo neighborhood in Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Chiapas, one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city, there has been a gradual loss of inhabitants since the 90s causing the decline of vernacular heritage and local identity. The commitment to sustainable development in cities worldwide sets as goals various actions that promote a look at the vernacular heritage and its relationship with the environment. However, the model of expansive growth of the city in an uncontrolled manner, moving away from the central city, also moves away from the Sustainable Development Goals.This article is part of a broader investigation in which the development of a methodology is proposed that establishes a specific cataloging system of the earthen architectural heritage of Santo Domingo neighborhood to provide guidelines for its preservation, strengthening and, in turn, of the historic city center, as a basis for redirecting the current city towards sustainable development.Through the analysis and characterization of the buildings built with raw earth and their inhabitants, it deepens in the analysis of the vernacular heritage, in its construction and consolidation of the urban environment, as well as its way of contributing to economic, social, and environmental links.However, the future of the vernacular heritage in urban areas, in this case, Santo Domingo neighborhood, depends not only on the patrimonial valuation in society but also on its economic revaluation by public and private institutions.
Indoor air quality for sustainability, occupational health and classroom environments through the application of earth plaster
Authors: Gomes Maria Idália , Miranda Teresa
Published: September 2022

Clearly, the construction sector makes a large scale contribution to environmental degradation and urgently needs to change its principles to focus on environmentally sustainable construction. Earth, as a building material, has a potential cradle to cradle life cycle, thus, achieving a circular economy. This material also displays numerous advantages, namely: economic and ecological and as well as the ease of reuse and recyclability. The earth material also registers a high capacity to absorb and release water vapor, which helps to balance the relative humidity and the internal temperature, promoting not only the comfort of occupants but also the quality of the air in buildings. The materials applied in construction hold great influence over the indoor air quality (IAQ). IAQ ranks as such a crucial issue that it appears in the seventeen 2030 Agenda SDGs. As about 90% of our time is spent inside buildings, whether for leisure or work, it is essential to live in spaces with adequate and healthy interior environments. According to the World Health Organization, good air quality represents a basic requirement for life and is a determining factor for the health and well-being of occupants of indoor spaces. In schools, and due to the complex and diversified activities developed there, in addition to adverse health effects, indoor air quality may also have a direct impact on student concentration and performance. Understanding and studying materials, specifically earth mortars, with the ability to capture pollutants and reduce their concentration while helping to regulate the temperature and relative humidity conditions, and student comfort, is thus extremely important. Hence, with the objective of improving the development of construction strategies, this article details and highlights the beginning of the RESpira project.
After the earthquake. Design processes for intervention on vernacular heritage in Central Italy
Authors: Tosco Cristiano , Suraci Niccolò , Loffredo Gianluca , Recla Federica
Published: September 2022

Every day, in Italy, an average of 45 seismic events is recorded (INGV 2020 data) and their impact on the built environment is intense and continuous. The most notable cases are only the tip of a widespread and systematic iceberg, especially in the Central Apennines Mountain range. The opportunity to operate on ancient and disrupted buildings, to observe materially mural stratigraphies, to interpret disconnected or hinted geometries represents the field of action of know-how that fluctuates between technological specialism and the transmission of ancient tacit knowledge, which is more evident in the vernacular heritage. Concepts like conservation, restoration and reconstruction have become crucial in the deep debate and rule formulation, in the context of the “Extraordinary Commissariat for Earthquake Reconstruction 2016”. The contribution intends to investigate and describe the main features of these design procedures, focusing on the results, the perspective, dynamics, and objectives through which the reconstruction is taking place. More in detail, the paper suggests two case studies to examine the application of these ongoing procedures in relation to the enhancement and conservation of vernacular heritage in the Marche region. The two case studies are the village of Gabbiano (a small rural fabric close to Pieve Torina, Macerata) and the Shrine of Macereto (a monumental, isolated complex in Visso, Macerata). The differences in size, type and original use between the case studies offers the opportunity to compare two different interventions for either a complete reconstruction or a conservative restoration. The scope of the study is to explore the “rules of reconstruction” - applied to vernacular heritage sites - by observing how the projects and the proposed techniques represent an interpretation of the national legal framework built around the post-earthquake territories.
A look on the intrinsic sustainability of Aeolian vernacular architecture
Authors: Giuffrida Giada , Caponetto Rosa
Published: September 2022

The vernacular architecture of the Aeolian Islands can be seen as the result of a stratification of empirical knowledge, linked to socio-economic, cultural, and environmental needs of local communities. This homogeneous and specific heritage is characterised by a constructive code which is the direct expression of the necessities dictated by the geo-morphological context, the environmental conditions and the availability of local resources. These constraints have strongly influenced the local “modus aedificandi”, characterised by an intrinsic sustainability. In particular, adaptation to local orography and climate, and to main wind directions, has promoted the adoption of several bioclimatic strategies (as the use of massive walls and roofs, cross ventilation and shading systems provided by verandas/porches) and of resources reuse (like rainwater collection). The smart use of traditional and locally available natural building materials for the realisation of the main constructive elements is another manifestation of this heritage sustainability. But the arrival of "modernity" (closely linked to industrialisation) has often compromised these aspects, neglecting the concept of continuous maintenance, choosing new, synthetic and (quite often) not compatible materials for recovery interventions, repurposing spaces and substituting and/or altering original uses. This contribution highlights the sustainability of Aeolian architecture and the traditional technical solutions used in this peculiar archipelago composed by volcanic islands. It also reports some "bad practices" introduced in the 60s and 70s to refurbish traditional buildings. Finally,a programmatic and more conscious approach to the recovery of Aeolian architecture, by the use of more compatible and sustainable interventions, is proposed. This choice is fundamental to respect the memory of vernacular heritage in general and, in particular, of Aeolian one, included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list since 2000.
Vernacular earthen architecture. Construction techniques and restoration. From the international setting to some specific Italian regional cases
Authors: Petrucci Enrica , Putzu Maria Giovanna , Mancini Rossana
Published: September 2022

The research focuses on vernacular architecture, in particular earth buildings, highlighting the different geographic areas involved, building types and construction techniques. In Italy, despite theoretical progress, some cultural and technical problems are still evident in earth architecture conservation. This is also due to the prevalence, among earth buildings, of vernacular architecture, that, in general, has no artistic value and with historical value yet to be fully appreciated. The characteristics of some regional areas are also considered, with particular attention to the Marche and Sardinia Regions, where earthen constructions have existed since ancient times. Knowledge of construction techniques that are the result of age-old experience is the basis for a good conservation and for the design of new ones. Today, some public administrations, on the regional and local levels, have developed operating manuals for the conservation of earth constructions, but there is still no real legislative protection for earth buildings and their material authenticity.
Defensive architecture and heritage education: analysis of the National Park Service and Parks Canada actions
Authors: Mira Rico Juan Antonio
Published: September 2022

Defensive architecture is a heritage typology of great interest for society due to various reasons, such as its monumentality, history, beauty or ability to fascinate thanks to cinema, literature or television. Like other cultural assets, its management is based on research, preservation, restoration, didactics, dissemination and participation following current approaches. In this sense, heritage education plays a fundamental role since it is a tool that connects cultural heritage with people. This fact becomes a key aspect to guarantee its knowledge, preservation, use and enjoyment over time. This paper will analyse the actions on heritage education of the National Park Service (United States of America) and Parks Canada  which are focused on defensive architecture. Both offices have been chosen because they manage examples of defensive architecture and are world leaders in heritage education. Therefore, the main purpose is to know their actions and make proposals for the Spanish context. This is an interesting fact because Spain has a rich and varied defensive architecture but heritage education still has little presence, which is surprising because heritage education favours society commitment when preserving cultural heritage. To this end, the qualitative work methodology will be used, specifically the analysis technique applied to the contents of the National Park Service and Parks Canada web pages.
Effects of the use of plant mucilage on the physico-mechanical properties of raw earth structures
Authors: Medina Lorente Olga María , Carrascosa Moliner Begoña , Osete Cortina Laura
Published: September 2022

Las construcciones de tierra cruda, por su propia naturaleza, son especialmente sensibles a las variaciones de las condiciones climáticas del entorno. En consecuencia, el uso de este material implica la incorporación de sustancias de diversa índole que tienen una función estabilizadora y ayudan a prolongar la vida de estas estructuras. Por ello, se propone el uso de sustancias vegetales de plantas suculentas, que además es una opción y segura, tanto para el medio ambiente como para los bienes culturales. En este sentido, el objetivo de la presente investigación es estudiar el efecto de la incorporación de estas sustancias en el chocototipo de tierra cruda utilizada desde la época preincaica hasta la actualidad en el Parque Arqueológico de Cochasquí, Ecuador.Para ello, sustancias vegetales de la familia de las cactáceas del género Opuntia; Austrocylindropuntia Subulata (MUHLPFRDT. Backbg) y Opuntia huajuapensis (Bravo), que se pueden encontrar en el medio natural. En esta investigación experimental se han evaluado las características de estas sustancias y la influencia que pueden tener en la determinación de este suelo crudo a través de una serie de ensayos físico-mecánicos, entre ellos: la comparación de la viscosidad cinemática de las diferentes sustancias vegetales utilizado, así como la evaluación del comportamiento del agua en muestras de suelo estabilizadas con diferentes concentraciones de mucílago.
Binibeca Vell. Interpreting tradition
Authors: Ferrer Forés Jaime J.
Published: September 2022

Following the visual and volumetric bases extracted from the traditional Mediterranean architecture, Francisco Juan Barba Corsini (1916-2008) and Antoni Sintes Mercadal (1921-1981) designed Binibeca Vell (1964-1972) a respectful complex with the environment and the constructive traditions. The integration in the site, the built forms, the materials used and the urban structure reflect the organization of a traditional village. The research aims to analyze the architectural features, the reinterpretation of vernacular elements and the local traditional construction crafts involved in the complex and the details, symbolism and aesthetics. Binibeca consists of 165 townhouses, shopping center, hotel, social club, church and a small marina, all arranged in the form of a fishing village. The urban structure, the different typologies and the construction process is considered an alternative to the block of apartments of tourist promotion, reinterpreting a model of traditional settlement. The initial proposal was to recreate a traditional fishing village that would inspire the work of intellectuals, painters and writers. Barba Corsini stated that he had felt closer to the way a fisherman builds than to an architect: “I have met Alvar Aalto on several occasions and I came to understand the superiority of the beauty of a wall made by a fisherman or a farmer compared to that of a specialist technician” (Barba Corsini, 2005). With the reinterpretation of an architecture of the past, Binibeca Vell recovers the autochthonous values of the Mediterranean coast. The resonance between topography and architecture, the harmony with the constructive traditions, the plasticity of organic integration and the picturesqueness of the access route characterize Binibeca, which incorporates the adjective "Vell" to the toponym to distinguish itself from new constructions.
The interpretation of the vernacular in the modern work of Gherardo Bosio: the Albanian experience.
Authors: Castagnaro Corrado
Published: September 2022

The essay investigates the relationship between some exponents of the Modern Movement and their architectural expression with the vernacular tradition. Gherardo Bosio (1903-1941) was one of the most emblematic architects of the modern transformation of Tirana. His work represents the desire to construct the image of the new city while preserving the relationship with the characters and values of tradition. Bosio's work can be ascribed to the particular trend of the Modern Movement that works in continuity with time, tradition and context. The material and immaterial cultural value of these architectures, in addition to the loss of part of the historical vernacular heritage that happens in some cases, represents the chance for the community to recognize and identify itself in a given historical and cultural contest. The relevance of the knowledge and enhancement of these assets aims to preserve the identity of a community from a process of globalization and homologation that is destroying its traces. The studio investigates the architecture of Gherardo Bosio, in his experience in Tirana. Significant in this work is the reference and reinterpretation of the vernacular Albanian Kulla. This is typical Albanian architecture, a sort of tower-house, built with compact forms and a massive character. It was oriented towards defence against possible enemy attacks. The essay investigates the contribution of vernacular architecture in some cases of Modern culture, in an effort to identify a national identity: a modernity that brings together past and future, tradition and innovation. Today, with the right distance in time, these architectures represent the contribution of the Modern in the writing of the palimpsest. These works are relevant in the definition and recognition of the characters on which to structure the values of society. The dissemination of knowledge and appreciation is useful in the constitution of a sense of local community.
THE Z FREE HOME – INSPIRED BYVERNACULAR ARCHITECTURE
Authors: Dabaieh Marwa
Published: September 2022

The Z Free Home is an eco-cycle home that is meant to represent a return to natural design solutions inspired by the passive and low environmental impact principles found in vernacular architecture. Throughout the centuries, vernacular building has exemplified climate resilience, resource efficiency and circular economic principles. The house will thus use these principles as design guidelines. It will be designed to offset all of its carbon emissions and aim to reach a negative carbon footprint. The Z Free Home will be built using bio-based fibres that can be repurposed from agriculture waste, meaning that when it is time to demolish the building, all its main components can be re-used again as building materials, food for animals, or biofuel. Even if an uninhabited Z Free Home is not demolished, most components will eventually rot and return to nature as compost. Building materials from the kitchen and toilet should however be recycled and reused so as to maintain the standard of zero waste. The house will be designed so as to construct in only 7 days with the help of 7 volunteers through a ‘do-it-yourself’ methodology and using only screwdrivers. All of these factors - zero energy, zero waste, zero carbon, zero labour cost (if you build it yourself), zero impact on the environment when the building is demolished – make the Z Free Home a unique challenge to design and build. This paper will discuss the methodological approach and show some preliminary results from the proposed low impact building envelope using natural materials (clay and plant-based materials like straw, reeds, wood, kenaf and jute) together with the passive and eco-cycle systems. As the project is still underway, this paper will describe outcomes to date and ending with a discussion on the next steps.
Research on Technique “Banzhu” Used in Traditional Dwellings in China from the Perspective of Formwork
Authors: Zhou Qi
Published: September 2022

In China, “Banzhu” refers to the traditional construction technique using formworks and ramming for buildings. Based on a literature review and oral testimonies of builders, this paper describes the areas where Banzhu was the dominant building technique in ancient China. This paper provides a classified study of this technique from the perspective of formworks, according to the unit arrangement and fixed approaches, in order to show the characteristics and distribution of different variations. It is found that all kinds of formworks need to comply with the basic requirements of blocking the earth, controlling the wall section, and fixing themselves, and the reasons for variations are the requirements for wall quality, height, and labor availability.
Implementing the lesson of early 20th century traditional buildings for a real sustainability. The examples of Corviale (Rome) and ZEN (Palermo) districts
Authors: Mazzola Ettore Maria
Published: September 2022

The lesson of the early Italian 20th Century vernacular/traditional buildings and districts by ICP (Social Housing Institute), which were quickly and inexpensively built, suggests the right way to improve our cities while  respecting the environment. Moreover, the socio-economic strategy of those days shows what we can do to re-train artisans and generate a vast artisanship, which could reduce the restoration costs of our heritage. As matter of fact that wise way of building aimed not only at providing new decorous houses, but also at generating labor and reducing the future maintenance costs. The success and durability of the buildings of those districts were not accidental: their authors’ assessments, as well as the urban rules conceived on those days, show that everything was carefully planned of a great thanks to an interdisciplinary approach. The use of traditional masonry, that does not need to wait for the hardening times of concrete to be loaded, allowed the quick constructions of those buildings: for instance 6 months for 44 houses of the district San Saba and only 4 for the entire Lot 24 of the Garbatella. These traditional masonry houses, whose revalued building costs were roughly 50% less than current ones, have not needed to be restored for over 100 years and are among the most sought after houses in real estate, (€/sqm 11,000, like in the historical center). Furthermore, the wise construction policy of those days shows us how we can solve the problem of housing, earning public profits from it rather than increasing public debt. The cases studied in this paper regard the projects for the urban regeneration of two wretched suburbs, in Rome and Palermo. They both show how, thanks to the simple reuse of the pre-Fascist laws and tools, as well as of traditional masonry, we can achieve the above-mentioned program
Repair Grants for Historic Farm Buildings in Dartmoor National Park
Authors: White Nils
Published: September 2022

The Historic Rural Building Pilot Scheme, launched in 2018, was a collaborative project between national cultural and natural heritage organisations, government agencies and five English National Parks. Its aim was to bring life back to traditional agricultural buildings within the boundaries of participating National Parks. Funding was available for building repairs using traditional methods and materials, with the aims of preserving the distinctive character of the areas and keeping the buildings in continued agricultural use.The Author is an independent heritage consultant employed by Dartmoor National Park Authority to oversee the 13 repair projects selected there. These ranged in size from small, isolated barns to a large, late 19thcentury model farmstead. Typical works included masonry and cob repairs, timber repairs, roof replacement etc. A total of £1.3m has been offered in the National Park covering 80% of the cost of eligible repairs.The paper briefly describes Dartmoor and provides an overview of the scheme. Individual case studies are considered, illustrated with photos, describing the history and significance of each building, their construction, the structural problems affecting them before repair; and the philosophy and solutions adopted.
Urban vernacular architecture in the Middle Ages in Galicia, Spain
Authors: Fernández Palicio Alejandro
Published: September 2022

The emergence of the first urban settlements during the High Middle Ages in Galicia allowed the appearanceof a typology of half-timbered houses with very heterogeneous characteristics according to the differentGalician regions. Its general characteristics were a ground floor made of rammed earth, granite orschist stone and an upper floor made with a wooden framework system used as structural closures withdifferent fillings (clay, straw, stone, brick or decking). The urban fabric of these settlements has beenanalyzed, studying the survival of the medieval lots. A small number of half-timbered houses of medievalorigin have been found. The extension of this typology throughout the Galician geography allowed us torethink part of the existing imaginary about vernacular construction in Galicia and contextualize themedieval Galician urban phenomenon within the European context.
Modern attitudes towards vernacular architecture. Works by the Italians Luigi Angelini, Alberto Alpago Novello, Ottavio Cabiati, Alessandro Minali
Authors: Grisoni Michela Marisa
Published: September 2022

Among the many architects practicing between the two world wars, some looked at the so-called vernacular architecture - then referred to as traditional or local, primitive, and spontaneous - as a model of genuine functionality. For some of them, its revival also stands for a solid and reliable solution for preserving the continuity between past and present, local communities and their traditions, society and its generations, a place, and its materials. Architectural historians have widely explored the theme, highlighting figures, subjects, and currents. Nevertheless, investigation of the role of history and historic culture is still far from exhausted, not only for Modernists but also among the Avantgardes and the International Style too. As a response to this conference’s topics, some of the architects working in and around Milan the 20th century focused on the relationships between tradition and modernity.  Here we look at some of their works to open a discussion on different scales: the landscape, the town, the building. We shall examine their proposals for a functionalist and modern design concept in traditional terms: the Mediterranean colonial house will illustrate the research by Alberto Alpago Novello and Ottavio Cabiati on local architecture; the modern pre-Alpine house proposed by the engineer Luigi Angelini for the Bergamo valleys and the building materials chosen by the architect Alessandro Minali show their respect for each place. The conclusions will – one hopes - lead to talking about typological and constructive building features, materials, and traditional techniques as a tool for preservation.
Farmhouse interior restoration in bioconstruction
Authors: Li Puma Valentina
Published: September 2022

The presented project deals with the interior design in bioconstruction of a family home, being a third part of the surface of an agricultural farmhouse named “Ca l'Amell”, in the municipality of Premiá de Mar, in Barcelona. Founded in 1848, it is classified as a cultural asset of local interest by the Catalog of the Environmental and Historical Architectural Heritage. The purchase of the entire farmhouse has been carried out by three families through a “micro co-housing” process: they split the cost of the purchase of the entire property and then divided it into three independent units.The object of this work is the interior design of one of the 3 housing (U3), that has been carried out by recovering traditional construction techniques and materials, respecting the original character of the vernacular architecture of the agricultural farmhouses in the area. To achieve this objective the project is based on using natural and highly breathable materials (instead of synthetics) like hydraulic lime plasters, clay plasters, silicate mineral paints, recycled cotton fiber as internal walls insulation, natural waxes. Construction solutions and finishes respond to the need to control the excess of indoor relative humidity and the transfer coefficient in exterior walls, achieving a comfortable environment and taking advantage of the great qualities of the thermal mass inertia of the old vernacular constructions. At the same time, the aim was to use non-synthetic materials with a content of volatile organic compounds (VOCs)as low as possible. In the interior design project, aspects of habitat psychology have been considered too (study of color tones appropriate to the image of the farm and in accordance with the nature of the environments) responding to the need to maintain the interior warmth of the original construction.
Impediments to Sustenance and Revival of Vernacular Architecture in Rural Madhya Pradesh, India
Authors: Tamhankar Anurag , Gupta Vidushi
Published: September 2022

Over the past couple of decades, building typology in rural India has seen an unprecedented shift away from vernacular material and construction techniques. The substitute - replicable, mass-produced, concrete structures fail to respond to the climatic and cultural context. In addition to being carbon intensive, inadequate knowledge about form and function of new construction methods and materials have led to poor quality construction that has a shorter life span. Compared to the existing vernacular buildings, such concrete structures are found to be uninhabitable by many end users.Studies done in the past on vernacular architecture of India focus on climate responsive design and execution, and traditional materials. However, there is insufficient research investigating the factors affecting the decline of vernacular practices.This paper assesses the reasons behind change in rural fabric of Madhya Pradesh, India, through primary focussed group discussions, key informant interviews & field observations. The study identifies diverse factors, ranging from individual preferences to policies and laws governing access to resources. It also uncovers unexpected factors such as changing food habits leading to lack of traditional construction materials. These wide-ranging factors are classified under social, technical, financial, and legal categories. The study develops a framework to analyse patterns emerging across different agro-climatic and geographic regions.  Based on the findings, the paper also recommends potential interventions for reviving sustainable vernacular architecture in the region.
3D Heritage as a catalyst for social participation in safeguarding cities in conflict. A Case study of Damascus in Syria
Authors: Ibrahim Sonia
Published: September 2022

El patrimonio cultural está en peligro en Siria, como en todas las ciudades del patrimonio mundial. Los edificios históricos han sido destruidos radicalmente por el conflicto y las comunidades han sido desplazadas. Muchos factores han contribuido a esta situación, como las estrategias de preservación inadecuadas antes de la guerra y la falta de conciencia de las comunidades locales sobre la importancia de su patrimonio. La incapacidad de las comunidades locales para contribuir a la protección de los sitios culturales se debe a la falta de recursos y conocimientos, además de su perspectiva del patrimonio como un obstáculo para el desarrollo y una carga económica en lugar de una fuente de orgullo e identidad. Por lo tanto, este artículo busca investigar la noción de patrimonio como un proceso acumulativo de producción cultural comunitaria en el tiempo y un elemento clave de la identidad. El patrimonio cultural refuerza la interrelación entre las comunidades y la tierra al restablecer conexiones que a menudo son parte de la construcción de paz. Este documento investiga a través de encuestas cualitativas y estadísticas la brecha problemática entre el patrimonio cultural y las comunidades locales en Siria. Además, se analiza la “visualización en 3D” como un catalizador potencial para llevar a cabo una participación exitosa de la comunidad local a través de sus jóvenes en la salvaguardia de su patrimonio cultural. La visualización 3D tiene un papel importante en la distribución del conocimiento (a nivel nacional e internacional) sobre el patrimonio a través del proceso de su creación, participación y el producto 3D. Además, las instituciones académicas tienen un papel importante en la difusión del conocimiento sobre el patrimonio a través de programas de educación patrimonial.
El Plan Nacional de Arquitectura Tradicional como instrumento de salvaguarda. Programas de actuación y proyectos.
Authors: Agromayor Navarrete Elena , Timón Tiemblo María Pía
Published: September 2022

Se presenta el Plan Nacional de Arquitectura Tradicional como instrumento de salvaguardacompartido entre la Administración General del Estado, las Comunidades Autónomas y los enteslocales y documento al servicio de la sociedad. A lo largo de la exposición se expondrán losconceptos y los elementos que definen y caracterizan a la arquitectura tradicional relacionando losámbitos en los que se manifiesta en España. De la misma manera se identificarán los riesgos yamenazas a la que este tipo de patrimonio se ve sometido en la actualidad, presentando un acelaradoproceso de deterioro desde el ultimo tercio del siglo XX, teniendo que hacer frente a toda una serie defactores que amenazan su supervivencia. Por ultimo, se presentarán las cuatro líneas de actuaciónque establece el Plan haciendo hincapié en los criterios y metodologías establecidas que puedentomar de referencia, técnicos, académicos y la propia sociedad, mostrándose algunos proyectospiloto realizados en el marco del mismo.
The Craft of Stucco Mihrab carving in Oman in the 13th to 17th centuries
Authors: Benkari Naima
Published: September 2022

The corpus of research about vernacular architecture in Oman presents some gaps of knowledge about its typologies and their mode of formation and development. The Omani traditional mosques, are among the typologies that deserve to be further studied. The present research aims to contribute to enrich the existing knowledge about this mosque architecture by formulating some interpretations regarding the origins and development of Mihrabs decoration in Oman between the 13th and 17th centuries. A total of 22 of such Mihrabs has been identified to have been the only remaining examples of this tradition in Oman. The paper presents the outcomes of a systematic survey and analysis of the architecture and artistic features of these Mihrabs and the mosques where they are located. It discusses the emergence of the craft of Mihrab carving in Oman, its origins and characteristics