Search Results (264)

Real-time rendering is increasingly used in augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR), interactive design, and product visualisation, where materials must prioritise efficiency and consistency rather than the extreme accuracy required in offline rendering. In parallel, the growing demand for personalised and customised products has created a need for digital materials that can be generated in-house without relying on expensive commercial systems. To address these requirements, this paper presents a low-cost digitisation workflow based on photometric stereo. The system integrates a custom-built scanner with cross-polarised illumination, automated multi-light image acquisition, a dual-stage colour calibration process, and a node-based reconstruction pipeline that produces albedo and normal maps. A reproducible evaluation methodology is also introduced, combining perceptual colour-difference analysis using the CIEDE2000 ($\Delta E_{00}$) metric with angular-error assessment of normal maps on known-geometry samples. By openly providing the workflow, bill of materials, and implementation details, this work delivers a practical and replicable solution for reliable material capture in real-time rendering and product customisation scenarios. Full article

This paper pioneers the integration of hyperspectral imaging and robotics for the automated analysis of cultural heritage, representing a measurable advancement over existing manually operated systems. For the first time in the cultural heritage domain, a compact push-broom hyperspectral camera working in the VNIR range has been successfully mounted on a robotic arm, enabling precise and repeatable acquisition trajectories without the need for manual intervention. Unlike traditional approaches that rely on fixed paths or manual repositioning, the proposed approach allows dynamic and programmable imaging of both planar and volumetric objects, greatly improving adaptability to complex geometries. The integrated system achieves spectral reliability comparable to established manual methods, while offering superior flexibility and scalability. Current limitations, particularly regarding the illumination setup, are discussed alongside planned optimisation strategies. Full article

Understanding the fluid storage and production mechanisms in sedimentary rocks is vital for optimising natural gas extraction and subsurface resource management. This study applies high-resolution X-ray computed tomography (≈15 μm) to digitise rock samples from onshore Cyprus, producing digital rock models from DICOM images. The workflow, including digitisation, numerical simulation of natural gas flow, and experimental validation, demonstrates strong agreement between digital and laboratory-measured porosity, confirming the methods’ reliability. Synthetic sand packs generated via particle-based modelling provide further insight into the gas storage mechanisms. A linear porosity–permeability relationship was observed, with porosity increasing from 0 to 35% and permeability from 0 to 3.34 mD. Permeability proved critical for production, as a rise from 1.5 to 3 mD nearly doubled the gas flow rate (14 to 30 fm³/s). Grain morphology also influenced gas storage. Increasing roundness enhanced porosity from 0.30 to 0.41, boosting stored gas volume by 47.6% to 42 fm³. Although based on Cyprus retrieved samples, the methodology is applicable to sedimentary formations elsewhere. The findings have implications for enhanced oil recovery, CO₂ sequestration, hydrogen storage, and groundwater extraction. This work highlights digital rock physics as a scalable technology for investigating transport behaviour in porous media and improving characterisation of complex sedimentary reservoirs. Full article

Against the backdrop of accelerating global trade and rising consumer expectations, cross-border e-commerce must urgently increase consumers’ willingness to reuse them. This study uses social exchange theory (SET) and resource dependency theory (RDT) to look at how business process reengineering (BPR) in cross-border e-commerce logistics services helps with digitalising the services, resulting in consumers being more likely to keep using the platform. The study also investigates information sharing and supply chain integration (SCI) as variables. This study used a sample of Chinese cross-border e-commerce enterprises and employed confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling (SEM) as analytical methods. The findings indicate a positive relationship between logistics service BPR and logistics service digitisation. Our results also show that SCI positively moderates the relationship between BPR and logistics service digitalization by enhancing cross-organizational collaboration and information flow. We further find that greater information sharing cross-border e-commerce platforms and logistics service providers strengthens SCI’s moderating effect, indicating a secondary moderating role of information sharing. This study proposes an innovative interactive perspective and, drawing on SET, constructs three models to identify the boundary conditions influencing the relationship. It provides a theoretical foundation and practical reference for cross-border e-commerce platforms seeking to optimize digital logistics services and enhance consumers’ willingness to reuse the platform. Full article

The digitisation of law-enforcement archives is examined with the aim of moving from static analogue records to interoperable semantic information systems. A step-by-step framework for optimal digitisation is proposed, grounded in archival best practice and enriched with artificial-intelligence and semantic-web technologies. Emphasis is placed on semantic data representation, which renders information actionable, searchable, interlinked, and automatically processed. As a proof of concept, a large language model—OpenAI ChatGPT, version o3—was applied to a corpus of narrative police reports, extracting and classifying key entities (metadata, persons, addresses, vehicles, incidents, fingerprints, and inter-entity relationships). The output was converted to Resource Description Framework triples and ingested into a triplestore, demonstrating how unstructured text can be transformed into machine-readable, interoperable data with minimal human intervention. The approach’s challenges—technical complexity, data quality assurance, information-security requirements, and staff training—are analysed alongside the opportunities it affords, such as accelerated access to records, cross-agency interoperability, and advanced analytics for investigative and strategic decision-making. Combining systematic digitisation, AI-driven data extraction, and rigorous semantic modelling ultimately delivers a fully interoperable information environment for law-enforcement agencies, enhancing efficiency, transparency, and evidentiary integrity. Full article

This article examines the “semantic gap” in the digitisation of museum collections—the divide between human-comprehensible representations of artefacts and machine-readable data structures. Drawing on a comparative analysis of national museum databases from Latvia, Estonia, and Finland, the study explores how material objects are transformed into digital surrogates and the challenges of creating interoperable, searchable, and meaningful datasets. Key obstacles include inconsistent metadata standards, linguistic variability, and differences in classification systems, which hinder aggregation and transnational analysis. Case studies of temporal, material, and image-based metadata reveal how human-oriented descriptions—rich in nuance, context, and uncertainty—often resist direct computational translation. The research shows that while digital formats offer powerful opportunities for aggregation, search, and reinterpretation of heritage at scale, this flexibility comes at the cost of reducing object-specific richness. The paper argues that the value, or “aura,” of digitised objects lies in their potential for connectivity and cross-institutional integration, achievable only through metadata standardisation and thoughtful design. Understanding digitisation as a culturally embedded process can help bridge disciplinary perspectives and improve future museum data infrastructures. Full article

The global infrastructure industry is faced with increasing system complexity and requirements driven by the Sustainable Development Goals, technological advancements, and the shift from Industry 4.0 to human-centric 5.0 principles. Coupled with persistent infrastructure investment deficits, these pressures necessitate improved methods for efficient requirements management and validation. While digital twins promise transformative real-time decision-making, reliance on static unstructured data formats inhibits progress. This paper presents a novel framework that integrates Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), using Linked Data principles to preserve semantic meaning during information exchange between physical abstractions and requirements. The proposed approach automates a step of compliance validation against regulatory standards explored through a case study, utilising requirements from a high-speed railway station fire safety system and a modified duplex apartment digital model. The workflow (i) digitises static documents into machine-readable MBSE formats, (ii) integrates structured data into dynamic digital models, and (iii) creates foundations for data exchange to enable compliance validation. These findings highlight the framework’s ability to enhance traceability, bridge static and dynamic data gaps, and provide decision-making support in digital twin environments. This study advances the application of Linked Data in infrastructure, enabling broader integration of ontologies required for dynamic decision-making trade-offs. Full article

Digital heritage (DH) research serves as a bridge between technological applications and broader cultural, social, and policy issues. A comprehensive understanding of DH requires the integration of multiple fields. To address this, this work applies a socio-technical systems (STS) perspective to DH as a strategy to bridge the technological and social aspects. It first examines how DH functions as STSs, analyses the dynamic interactions between technological and social subsystems, and explains the need to achieve joint optimisation to tackle the complexity of DH research. Second, a comparative analysis of six STS models is conducted, using the Venice Time Machine project as a representative case, to explore both the potential and limitations of STSs as a theoretical framework for DH. Third, STS theory is applied to emphasise that the approach needs to incorporate cultural expression, technological feasibility, diverse stakeholder interests, and long-term adaptability in order to address the complexity of current DH challenges. Finally, an STS-DH framework is proposed to guide the design, implementation and evaluation of DH projects using the elements identified through the present analysis. This work extends STS theory applications to cultural heritage digitisation; provides stakeholders with new practical tools; recognises the lack of empirical research in this field and highlights the need for further research. Full article

Coastal erosion and shoreline change represent major challenges for the sustainable management of coastal environments, with implications for infrastructure, ecosystems, biodiversity, and the socio-economic well-being of coastal communities. This study investigates the shoreline evolution of 79 Mediterranean microtidal beaches located along the southern coast of Sardinia Island (Italy), using the Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS). Shorelines were manually digitised from high-resolution aerial orthophotos made available through the WMS service of the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, covering the period 1954–2022. Shoreline changes were assessed through five statistical indicators: Shoreline Change Envelope (SCE), Net Shoreline Movement (NSM), End Point Rate (EPR), Weighted Linear Regression (WLR), and Linear Regression Rate (LRR). The results highlight marked spatial and temporal variability in shoreline retreat and accretion, revealing patterns that link shoreline dynamics to the degree of anthropisation or naturalness of each beach. In fact, coastal areas characterised by local anthropogenic factors showed higher rates of shoreline retreat and/or accretion, while natural beaches showed greater stability and resilience in the long term. The outcomes of this analysis provide valuable insights into local coastal dynamics and represent a critical knowledge base for developing targeted adaptation strategies, supporting spatial planning, and reducing coastal risks under future climate change scenarios. Full article

Yerkapı, a prominent structure within Ḫattuša, the capital of the Hittite Empire (17th–12th century BC), exemplifies the sophisticated architectural and cultural practices of this ancient civilisation. The monument, encompassing a Sphinx Gate and an underground tunnel (postern) featuring 249 hieroglyphic inscriptions, is hypothesised to have served ceremonial rather than defensive purposes. This study employs a multidisciplinary approach to document, analyse, and interpret the inscriptions and their architectural context through advanced methodologies. High-resolution 3D digitisation was conducted using drones, terrestrial laser scanning, and photogrammetric techniques, enabling the creation of detailed models of the site. Specific focus was given to the postern, with comprehensive surveys delineating the geometries of the inscriptions and their spatial relationships to the Sphinx Gate. Diagnostic pigment analysis provided insights into the mineralogical and chemical composition of the red figures, further informing the interpretation of the hieroglyphs. The integration of 3D models and petrographic data allowed for the identification of previously unobservable details and facilitated a sequential reading of the inscriptions within their architectural framework. The findings emphasise Yerkapı’s function as a site of symbolic and ritual importance, thereby advancing our comprehension of Hittite ceremonial practices and establishing a methodological paradigm for the integration of digital archaeology with the study of geo-materials in the investigation of complex ancient monuments. Full article

Television formats are undergoing a redefinition of the audiovisual panorama marked by digitisation and the decrease in audiences. In this context, news coverage at times of special interest is an opportunity to regain relevance, and for this reason the morning magazine programmes are taking on the broadcasting of currently prevalent news, intervening in subjects traditionally reserved for news programmes. This paper analyses the news content of TV magazines in a context of hybridisation of genres that has blurred the acknowledged boundaries between the definitions of television programmes. To achieve this, we study the topics on the agenda and how the news is dealt with that is included in the two leading formats among the private and public channels with the biggest audiences in Spain: Espejo Público on Antena 3 and Mañaneros on Televisión Española. The results show that there is a process we call “news osmosis”, whereby the news is treated in a spectacular way, yet incorporating the language and aesthetics typical of the formality of news programmes. In this adaptation, the magazines impose themselves on the narration of the news scoop while restricting the thematic agenda, leaning towards a kind of reductionism in which the private channels choose to prioritise political conflict while the public channels concentrate on current incidents, understood here as newsworthy events of public interest (crimes or accidents). Full article

The digitisation of cultural heritage has transformed how GLAM (Galleries, Libraries, Archives and Museums) institutions manage and share collections. Digital catalogues are indispensable for documenting and granting public access to cultural assets. However, integrating spatial data remains challenging due to the ambiguity, uncertainty, granularity, and heterogeneity of historical data. This study addresses these issues through a case study on the Museo de América’s “Place of Provenance” data, proposing a methodology for data cleaning and evaluating geocoding accuracy using Nominatim, ArcGIS, and GeoNames APIs. We assess these APIs by quantifying geocoding errors through a “balance sheet” method, identifying instances of over-representation, under-representation, or neutral results for geographical regions. The effectiveness of each API is analysed using confusion matrices and interactive cartograms, offering insights into misallocations. Our findings reveal varying accuracy among the APIs in processing heterogeneous historical spatial data. Nominatim achieved a 40.91% neutral result in correctly geocoding countries, underscoring challenges in spatial data representation. This research provides valuable methodological experiences and insights for researchers and GLAM institutions working with cultural heritage datasets. By enhancing spatial dispersion visualisation, this work contributes to understanding cultural circulations and historical patterns. This interdisciplinary work was developed as part of the ClioViz project, integrating Data Science, data Visualisation, and art history. Full article

This article focuses on forecasting morphological changes in small rivers, using the Ulken Almaty River, located on the northern slope of the Ile Alatau range in the Tien Shan mountain system, as a case study. One of the key components of river morphology is the dynamics of channel processes, including erosion, accretion, and the shifting of channel forms. Understanding these processes in rivers flowing through urbanized areas is essential for mitigating environmental and infrastructural risks. Despite their importance, studies of this nature in Kazakhstan remain at a formative stage and are largely fragmentary, underscoring the need for modern approaches to river morphology analysis. Three representative sections of the Ulken Almaty River (upstream, midstream, and downstream) were selected for analysis. Satellite imagery from 2012 to 2021 was used for manual digitisation of river channel outlines. Annual erosion and accretion areas were calculated based on these data. The DSAS 5.1 module, integrated into ArcGIS 10.8.1, was applied to determine the rates of erosion and accretion over the ten-year period. To forecast future channel changes, the Kalman filter model was employed, enabling projections for 10 and 20 years into the future. A comparative analysis of the intensity of the erosion and accretion processes was conducted for each river section. Spatial and temporal variations in bank dynamics were identified, with the most significant changes occurring in the middle and lower reaches. Forecasted scenarios indicate the possible deformation pathways of the river channel influenced by both natural and anthropogenic factors. The results provide valuable insights into the spatiotemporal dynamics of fluvial processes in small mountain rivers under the pressure of urban development and climatic variability. The methodology employed in this study offers practical applications for urban planning, river management, and the mitigation of geomorphological hazards. Full article

From an outside perspective, it is not clear whether the Catholic Church is an active digital entity, or at least, it is not perceived as such. This paper analyses this issue. The methodology involved the monitoring of ecclesiastical Internet activity, SWOT analysis and in-depth interviews (seven) with clergy and technological suppliers of the Church in both Spain and Latin America. Results: Catholic Church digitalisation is spontaneous, as a reflection of society at large, and is heterogeneous due to its decentralised management. There is more inner acceptance of digital mediatisation for proclamation or support in faith (i.e., apps for praying) and less acceptance for the digitalised practice of rites (digital mediation in the celebration of sacraments is an open debate); however, the presence of ICTs in sacred places is increasing (i.e., liturgical books on screen). The evangelisation of the digital continent is an objective of the Church, whereby clergy influencers are the most striking but less solid case. There is almost full digital implementation at the functional level (i.e., digitised accounting and archives). Only charitable action with vulnerable groups remains analogue. Polarisation is also present, as ultra-Catholic groups are over-represented on the Internet. Conclusion: The Catholic Church is integrated in the Information and Digital Age but is also concerned with spiritual impoverishment, as online fragmentation does not feed real humanitarian communities. Full article

Recognising the Bangla alphabet remains a significant challenge within the fields of computational linguistics and artificial intelligence, primarily due to the script’s inherent structural complexity and wide variability in writing styles. The Bangla script is characterised by intricate ligatures, overlapping diacritics, and visually similar graphemes, all of which complicate automated recognition tasks. Despite ongoing advancements in deep learning (DL), machine learning (ML), and image processing (IP), accurately identifying Bangla characters continues to be a demanding and unresolved issue. A key limitation lies in the absence of robust detection frameworks capable of accommodating the script’s complex visual patterns and nuances. To address this gap, we propose an enhanced object detection model based on the YOLOv11 architecture, incorporating a ResNet50 backbone for improved feature extraction. The YOLOv11 framework is particularly effective in capturing discriminative features from input images, enabling real-time detection with high precision. This is especially beneficial in overcoming challenges such as character overlap and stylistic diversity, which often hinder conventional recognition techniques. Our approach was evaluated on a custom dataset comprising 50 primary Bangla characters (including vowels and consonants) along with 10 numerical digits. The proposed model achieved a recognition confidence of 99.9%, markedly outperforming existing methods in terms of accuracy and robustness. This work underscores the potential of single-shot detection models for the recognition of complex scripts such as Bangla. Beyond its technical contributions, the model has practical implications in areas including the digitisation of historical documents, the development of educational tools, and the advancement of inclusive multilingual technologies. By effectively addressing the unique challenges posed by the Bangla script, this research contributes meaningfully to both computational linguistics and the preservation of linguistic heritage. Full article