cometadata/datacite-titles-descriptions-related-identifiers huggingface dataset:
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20026745.v1
title: Adherence of ceramic tiles on structural ceramic block masonry

description: Abstract The aim of this paper is to assess the mechanical behaviour of ceramic tiles on a structural masonry wall submitted to vertical loading. This study presents the results and conclusions of experiments carried out on ceramic block masonry walls coated with ceramic tiles and submitted to increasing vertical loads up to the system's complete failure. The ceramic tiling was applied on the walls using dry set mortars either directly on the blocks or on a plastering mortar layer. During the tests, all the important events, such as strains, onset cracks, tile detaching, rupture shape and load values, were registered. It was possible to determine the relationship between loads and the occurrence of cracks or tile detachment. Cracking or detachment of ceramic tiles only occurred at load values close to each wall's failure load. That indicates that the tiles had good adherence to the wall up to loads much higher than those expected. This indicates that the rendering tyles did not have any visual or mechanical failures when they were on walls under service loads
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20026747
title: Impact of the use of microorganisms in floor drains in sanitary rooms

description: Abstract Concern with the quality of building drainage systems has motivated biotechnology companies to invest in products consisting of mixtures of microorganisms that that act on the pre-treatment of wastewater in building sewage systems to combat unpleasant odours. The aim of this study is to assess the use of concentrated mixtures of microorganisms to accelerate the degradation of organic compounds in floor drains of building drainage systems and the impact on wastewater treatment plants. The methodology consists in diagnosing unpleasant odours in the restrooms of a university building, which are subject to constant complaints on the part of users. Thereafter, microorganism tablets were put in the wastewater of the floor drains of two restrooms and the performance and impacts of their use in restrooms and in wastewater treatment plants was investigated. Biochemical oxygen demand analyses and respirometry tests were conducted in order to check for changes in the wastewater. The results showed that the foul odours in these restrooms was not reduced and, in wastewater treatment plants, the concentration of product recommended by the manufacturer did not produce significant changes in the analysed characteristics of the wastewater.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20026747.v1
title: Impact of the use of microorganisms in floor drains in sanitary rooms

description: Abstract Concern with the quality of building drainage systems has motivated biotechnology companies to invest in products consisting of mixtures of microorganisms that that act on the pre-treatment of wastewater in building sewage systems to combat unpleasant odours. The aim of this study is to assess the use of concentrated mixtures of microorganisms to accelerate the degradation of organic compounds in floor drains of building drainage systems and the impact on wastewater treatment plants. The methodology consists in diagnosing unpleasant odours in the restrooms of a university building, which are subject to constant complaints on the part of users. Thereafter, microorganism tablets were put in the wastewater of the floor drains of two restrooms and the performance and impacts of their use in restrooms and in wastewater treatment plants was investigated. Biochemical oxygen demand analyses and respirometry tests were conducted in order to check for changes in the wastewater. The results showed that the foul odours in these restrooms was not reduced and, in wastewater treatment plants, the concentration of product recommended by the manufacturer did not produce significant changes in the analysed characteristics of the wastewater.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20026748.v1
title: Impacts of air conditioning use on thermal perception in open spaces in downtown Rio de Janeiro

description: Abstract Studies on thermal perception in outdoor spaces are crucial for climate-responsive urban planning. This paper evaluates the thermal perception of users in outdoor spaces in downtown Rio de Janeiro, with the aim of analysing the impact of long-term use of air-conditioning on thermal sensation and thermal preference votes. Thermal votes from structured interviews are compared to standard thermal indices for outdoor spaces (PET and UTCI), by grouping responses in terms of reported air-conditioning usage. The monitoring campaigns were carried out during summer periods between 2012 and 2015. The semi-experimental set-up involved the permanence of equipment and researchers at a single point per campaign during a period of time spanning 10am to 3pm. A Davis Vantage Pro2 weather station was used for monitoring along with the administration of standard comfort questionnaires as in ISO 10551, with additional questions as regards air-conditioning usage at work and/or at home. Results suggest that the frequent usage of air-conditioning affects thermal perception and is a confounding factor in the definition of comfort limits for the evaluated indices PET and UTCI.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20026748
title: Impacts of air conditioning use on thermal perception in open spaces in downtown Rio de Janeiro

description: Abstract Studies on thermal perception in outdoor spaces are crucial for climate-responsive urban planning. This paper evaluates the thermal perception of users in outdoor spaces in downtown Rio de Janeiro, with the aim of analysing the impact of long-term use of air-conditioning on thermal sensation and thermal preference votes. Thermal votes from structured interviews are compared to standard thermal indices for outdoor spaces (PET and UTCI), by grouping responses in terms of reported air-conditioning usage. The monitoring campaigns were carried out during summer periods between 2012 and 2015. The semi-experimental set-up involved the permanence of equipment and researchers at a single point per campaign during a period of time spanning 10am to 3pm. A Davis Vantage Pro2 weather station was used for monitoring along with the administration of standard comfort questionnaires as in ISO 10551, with additional questions as regards air-conditioning usage at work and/or at home. Results suggest that the frequent usage of air-conditioning affects thermal perception and is a confounding factor in the definition of comfort limits for the evaluated indices PET and UTCI.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20026750.v1
title: Pilot study in a climatic chamber: daylight effects on aspects of health and wellbeing not related to vision

description: Abstract Taking into account that daylight is concerned not only with providing a healthy and comfortable built environment, but also with health aspects of users with impacts on their biological rhythms, this study presents the methodology used in a pilot study carried out in a climate chamber, focusing on the influence of daylight (or lack thereof) on variables related to health conditions and well-being of subjects. The method involves the assessment of objective and subjective data in subjects exposed to different conditions of solar access, while in thermal comfort in a climate chamber. Relationships between subjective and psychological perception relative to conditions of light exposure are analysed for winter in Karlsruhe (49°N, 8.5°E). The pilot study allowed the verification of the method and its limitations; being thus an important step for the ongoing research.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20026750
title: Pilot study in a climatic chamber: daylight effects on aspects of health and wellbeing not related to vision

description: Abstract Taking into account that daylight is concerned not only with providing a healthy and comfortable built environment, but also with health aspects of users with impacts on their biological rhythms, this study presents the methodology used in a pilot study carried out in a climate chamber, focusing on the influence of daylight (or lack thereof) on variables related to health conditions and well-being of subjects. The method involves the assessment of objective and subjective data in subjects exposed to different conditions of solar access, while in thermal comfort in a climate chamber. Relationships between subjective and psychological perception relative to conditions of light exposure are analysed for winter in Karlsruhe (49°N, 8.5°E). The pilot study allowed the verification of the method and its limitations; being thus an important step for the ongoing research.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20026753
title: Analysis of performance measurement systems in the construction industry

description: Abstract The debate about performance measurement is growing among professionals and researchers, but it is still insufficient to consolidate measurement practices in the construction industry. This study aims to identify opportunities for improvement in performance measurement systems in the construction industry, analysing 22 models found in the literature from the last 25 years. These models were evaluated by applying a protocol proposed in this study and a subsequent validation process by experts. Through the mapping of the key features, roles and processes of measurement practices, it was possible to conclude that the following improvements are necessary: (i) in data processing, integrating it into the company' routine, (ii) in information management, improving actions to generate knowledge, (iii) establishing a connection between assessment and a rewards system, and (iv) in a systematic review not only of individual indicators, but of the usability, efficiency and overall consistency of those indicators. Furthermore, we propose a framework that presents a holistic view of the measurement process, emphasizing the differences between indicator systems and performance measurement systems. We suggest a research agenda based on the gaps and opportunities for improvement detected.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20026753.v1
title: Analysis of performance measurement systems in the construction industry

description: Abstract The debate about performance measurement is growing among professionals and researchers, but it is still insufficient to consolidate measurement practices in the construction industry. This study aims to identify opportunities for improvement in performance measurement systems in the construction industry, analysing 22 models found in the literature from the last 25 years. These models were evaluated by applying a protocol proposed in this study and a subsequent validation process by experts. Through the mapping of the key features, roles and processes of measurement practices, it was possible to conclude that the following improvements are necessary: (i) in data processing, integrating it into the company' routine, (ii) in information management, improving actions to generate knowledge, (iii) establishing a connection between assessment and a rewards system, and (iv) in a systematic review not only of individual indicators, but of the usability, efficiency and overall consistency of those indicators. Furthermore, we propose a framework that presents a holistic view of the measurement process, emphasizing the differences between indicator systems and performance measurement systems. We suggest a research agenda based on the gaps and opportunities for improvement detected.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20026754.v1
title: Method for assessing the impact of buildings on access to daylight in urban neighborhoods applied in virtual scenarios

description: Abstract During daytime, daylight can help to reduce consumption from artificial sources. However, access to this resource is hampered as cities increase building density, increasing occupancy rates and building heights. Given this background, the aim of this study was to develop a method to investigate the impact of buildings on access to daylight though a static approach in neighbourhoods, using parameters and assessment techniques found in the literature, followed by an analysis using virtual scenarios to illustrate the application of the method. The methodology of this study, which involves the construction of a method, is divided into six steps: choice of analysis parameters, definition of the neighbourhood coverage radius, modelling and simulation, definition of the types of impacts, definition of the virtual scenarios and analysis of the data of the scenarios. To assess the impacts, the FLDV - Vertical Daylight Factor in the original scenario and in the scenario with the insertion of a building in the neighbourhood were compared. The simulation results of the case studies indicate that a type of urban environment configuration with buildings presenting different architectural forms between neighboring buildings and irregular installments, would help minimize adverse impacts on the neighbourhood.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20026754
title: Method for assessing the impact of buildings on access to daylight in urban neighborhoods applied in virtual scenarios

description: Abstract During daytime, daylight can help to reduce consumption from artificial sources. However, access to this resource is hampered as cities increase building density, increasing occupancy rates and building heights. Given this background, the aim of this study was to develop a method to investigate the impact of buildings on access to daylight though a static approach in neighbourhoods, using parameters and assessment techniques found in the literature, followed by an analysis using virtual scenarios to illustrate the application of the method. The methodology of this study, which involves the construction of a method, is divided into six steps: choice of analysis parameters, definition of the neighbourhood coverage radius, modelling and simulation, definition of the types of impacts, definition of the virtual scenarios and analysis of the data of the scenarios. To assess the impacts, the FLDV - Vertical Daylight Factor in the original scenario and in the scenario with the insertion of a building in the neighbourhood were compared. The simulation results of the case studies indicate that a type of urban environment configuration with buildings presenting different architectural forms between neighboring buildings and irregular installments, would help minimize adverse impacts on the neighbourhood.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20026756
title: Urban environment quality assessment using a methodology and set of indicators for medium-density neighbourhoods: a comparative case study of Lodi and Genoa

description: Abstract One of the main issues in urban sustainability and environmental assessment relates to the selection of indicators (SOCCO, 2000), as there are already many international and recognised core sets (DELSANTE, 2007; LEE; CHAN 2009). Nevertheless, specific local contexts are still in need of appropriate, original indicators and indices (MALCEVSCHI, 2004). This paper deals with the urban quality assessment of medium-density neighbourhoods, which typically include dwellings but also public functions, public spaces and urban infrastructure. The evaluation method is based on a set of 74 indicators used within a specific computational method that is based on scores and defined through pairwise comparison matrices (SOCCO, 2003) to convert qualitative and quantitative evaluations into scores (0 to +100). The assessment involved two different urban contexts in the cities of Lodi and Genoa (Italy). It tests if the set can be used in other sites and cities; the results show significant findings and potentialities, but also some limitations. As significant connections have already been found between urban quality and well-being surveys of inhabitants (ORLANDO, 2007), the possibility to act comparatively in different contexts increases overall research potentiality.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20026756.v1
title: Urban environment quality assessment using a methodology and set of indicators for medium-density neighbourhoods: a comparative case study of Lodi and Genoa

description: Abstract One of the main issues in urban sustainability and environmental assessment relates to the selection of indicators (SOCCO, 2000), as there are already many international and recognised core sets (DELSANTE, 2007; LEE; CHAN 2009). Nevertheless, specific local contexts are still in need of appropriate, original indicators and indices (MALCEVSCHI, 2004). This paper deals with the urban quality assessment of medium-density neighbourhoods, which typically include dwellings but also public functions, public spaces and urban infrastructure. The evaluation method is based on a set of 74 indicators used within a specific computational method that is based on scores and defined through pairwise comparison matrices (SOCCO, 2003) to convert qualitative and quantitative evaluations into scores (0 to +100). The assessment involved two different urban contexts in the cities of Lodi and Genoa (Italy). It tests if the set can be used in other sites and cities; the results show significant findings and potentialities, but also some limitations. As significant connections have already been found between urban quality and well-being surveys of inhabitants (ORLANDO, 2007), the possibility to act comparatively in different contexts increases overall research potentiality.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20026762
title: Population of different social strata and its preferences in urban stormwater management

description: Abstract Many Brazilian municipalities have specific legislation focused on the management of urban stormwater with the main purpose runoff control. Among the promoted measures are the mandatory implementation of different devices that operate storing or infiltrating the runoff, compensating its impact. This practice is known as compensatory technique (CT). Given the different possible CT that can be chosen, this article presents the main preferences and perceptions of the population in three different socioeconomic groups. The study was accomplished in the city of Santa Maria / RS, that as other municipalities of medium size, should also adopt some sort of public policy towards the stormwater management. A total of 518 households were surveyed in representative districts of the upper lower class, upper middle class and lower middle class, who have the same guideline for land use. The results revealed important aspects regarding the understanding of the public to the management of rainwater in urban areas, and showed that the preference between storage or infiltration may be influenced by socioeconomic status. In addition, the survey was able to identify that more than 90% of households have already knowledge about this type of public policy.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20026762.v1
title: Population of different social strata and its preferences in urban stormwater management

description: Abstract Many Brazilian municipalities have specific legislation focused on the management of urban stormwater with the main purpose runoff control. Among the promoted measures are the mandatory implementation of different devices that operate storing or infiltrating the runoff, compensating its impact. This practice is known as compensatory technique (CT). Given the different possible CT that can be chosen, this article presents the main preferences and perceptions of the population in three different socioeconomic groups. The study was accomplished in the city of Santa Maria / RS, that as other municipalities of medium size, should also adopt some sort of public policy towards the stormwater management. A total of 518 households were surveyed in representative districts of the upper lower class, upper middle class and lower middle class, who have the same guideline for land use. The results revealed important aspects regarding the understanding of the public to the management of rainwater in urban areas, and showed that the preference between storage or infiltration may be influenced by socioeconomic status. In addition, the survey was able to identify that more than 90% of households have already knowledge about this type of public policy.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20026763.v1
title: Infiltration trench as compensatory technique for urban stormwater management

description: Abstract The aim of this paper is to present an experimental project of an installed infiltration trench in Recife/PE in the first months of life. Storage functions within the system were evaluated through the monitoring of the water levels and infiltration function, watching for the downward movement behavior level, recession. Because of the consequent events of precipitation, the trench was very requested, not having supplied, in some cases, the large volume of entry, which generated a leakage in the structure. A cost analysis was implemented and evaluated the performance and the cost of construction for the return times (2, 5, 10 and 25 years) and project rainfall durations (10, 15, 60 and 120 min). Despite the storage layer was undersizing, the infiltration trench showed positive results, and found a minimum capacity of infiltrating 63.57% of the input volumes, presenting itself as a compensatory technique in the management of urban rainwater.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20026763
title: Infiltration trench as compensatory technique for urban stormwater management

description: Abstract The aim of this paper is to present an experimental project of an installed infiltration trench in Recife/PE in the first months of life. Storage functions within the system were evaluated through the monitoring of the water levels and infiltration function, watching for the downward movement behavior level, recession. Because of the consequent events of precipitation, the trench was very requested, not having supplied, in some cases, the large volume of entry, which generated a leakage in the structure. A cost analysis was implemented and evaluated the performance and the cost of construction for the return times (2, 5, 10 and 25 years) and project rainfall durations (10, 15, 60 and 120 min). Despite the storage layer was undersizing, the infiltration trench showed positive results, and found a minimum capacity of infiltrating 63.57% of the input volumes, presenting itself as a compensatory technique in the management of urban rainwater.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20026765
title: The impact of the urban canyon geometry in the nocturnal heat island intensity: analysis by a simplified model adapted to a GIS

description: Abstract Urban geometry is one of the main factors influencing the development of urban heat islands. The study of urban geometry requires a characterization of urban canyons, which can be usually measured by the H/W ratio (a relationship between the height and the width of a street), a concept applied in a numerical model by Oke in 1981. The aim of this paper is to verify the impact of the canyon geometry on the intensity of the nocturnal urban heat islands. For this purpose, measurements of climate data and urban geometry were conducted in two Brazilian cities. The values of heat island intensity were cross-examined to those generated with the application of the original Oke's model. Therefore, this latter was calibrated and adapted to run in a GIS platform, allowing the incorporation of a geometric parameter other than the H/W ratio - the roughness length. Then, this process produced a new calculation tool, which is called THIS (Tool for Heat Island Simulation). The new model was applied to simulate some hypothetical urban scenarios representing several urban canyons types. The results showed that the urban canyons with the largest roughness reduce the nocturnal heat island intensities in relation to an urban canyon of the same H/W value, but presenting lower roughness rates instead.