This paper explored the antecedents and the role of local artisans in Spatial Planning (SP) activities in Ghana. The paper was based on the results of an inspection of 5896 already built houses at Mepe in the Volta Re...This paper explored the antecedents and the role of local artisans in Spatial Planning (SP) activities in Ghana. The paper was based on the results of an inspection of 5896 already built houses at Mepe in the Volta Region of Ghana. A mixed method research approach was used to gather the data through snowball non-probability sampling technique. It enabled the researchers to identify 100 local artisans. Survey questionnaires were used, which was followed by structured interviews with five (5) elders who lived in the town for over 65 years. The results showed that the early houses were built on community lands with mud and thatch clustered with narrow and unnamed alleys. Property owners heavily depended on local artisans for professional guidance, although some artisans were ill-trained and unaware of existing government SP regulations. The study was limited to artisans who practiced at the local community level. The findings showed that many local artisans were poorly trained, resulting in poor workmanship and non-compliance with local planning regulations. The paper recommends the integration of SP into the artisanal curricula at both local and national levels to improve their skills.展开更多
1 Three hundred years ago,merchants from Shanxi Province exported tea to foreign countries on the Eurasian continent,and in turn they brought back the secrets of glassware manufacturing.Luo Qinqin,a 40‑year‑old native...1 Three hundred years ago,merchants from Shanxi Province exported tea to foreign countries on the Eurasian continent,and in turn they brought back the secrets of glassware manufacturing.Luo Qinqin,a 40‑year‑old native of Qixian county in Shanxi,is a skilled glass worker in Shanxi.She is one of the few female artisans who have mastered the craft of glass pulling.展开更多
In the context of global digital transformation and the rising prominence of maker education,this study explores the innovative integration of digital modeling technologies with traditional Nixing Pottery craftsmanshi...In the context of global digital transformation and the rising prominence of maker education,this study explores the innovative integration of digital modeling technologies with traditional Nixing Pottery craftsmanship.By constructing a teaching framework under maker education theory,the research investigates how 3D modeling,CAD design,and 3D printing technologies can empower learners to address challenges in cultural heritage preservation and artistic innovation.Through experimental teaching and case analysis,the study verifies that this integrated approach significantly enhances learners’digital literacy,creative thinking,and cultural identity while optimizing Nixing Pottery’s production processes and design possibilities.The findings contribute to theoretical models of technology-enhanced craft education and provide practical pathways for the digital transformation of intangible cultural heritage.展开更多
Artisanal gold mining,a labor-intensive and antiquated technique,is a growing industry and the source of income for rural communities all over the world.However,artisanal gold mining has potential negative and long-te...Artisanal gold mining,a labor-intensive and antiquated technique,is a growing industry and the source of income for rural communities all over the world.However,artisanal gold mining has potential negative and long-term effects on economy,environment,and society.This study collected soil samples from 16 sample points including a control point to examine the pollution degrees and spatial distribution of heavy metals,as well as ecological and health risks associated with heavy metal pollution in the Ijero-Ekiti mining site,Nigeria.Geographical Information System(GIS)and remote sensing technologies were used to identify regions with high concentrations of heavy metals and assess the environmental impact of gold mining activities.The results show that the mean heavy metal concentrations of 16 soil pointa are 8.94(±5.97)mg/kg for As,0.18(±0.54)mg/kg for Cd,0.11(±1.06)mg/kg for Co,14.32(±3.43)mg/kg for Cr,6.89(±0.64)mg/kg for Cu,48.92(±11.77)mg/kg for Fe,135.81(±30.75)mg/kg for Mn,5.92(±0.96)mg/kg for Ni,5.72(±1.66)mg/kg for Pb,and 13.94(±1.38)mg/kg for Zn.The study reveals that heavy metal concentration in soils follows the order of Mn>Fe>Cr>Zn>As>Cu>Ni>Pb>Co>Cd.An analysis of soil samples indicates that 3 principal components(PCs)account for 70.008%of the total variance and there are strong positive correlations between various pairs of heavy metals.The total potential ecological risk index(309.599)in the study area is high.Non-carcinogenic risk suggests that there may be long-term health impacts on people who work in the mining areas due to chronic exposure to the environment.Based on the study,the hazard index of carcinogenic health risks associated with heavy metals through ingestion is 520.00×10^(–4).Dermal contact from As and Cr also increases the risk of cancer,with the highest hazard index value of 18.40×10^(–4).The lowest exposure pathway,with the hazard index value of 0.68×10^(–4),indicates that the inhalation of heavy metals has a comparatively low risk of cancer.This study recommends the formulation of policies to monitor the Ijero-Ekiti mining site and other regions in Nigeria where indiscriminate artisanal gold mining activities exist.展开更多
In Côte d’Ivoire, there is no regulation regarding the use of traditional ceramics in food. However, their possible impact on human health is not known. Two types of tests must be carried out to study container/...In Côte d’Ivoire, there is no regulation regarding the use of traditional ceramics in food. However, their possible impact on human health is not known. Two types of tests must be carried out to study container/content interactions in order to ensure a possible migration of ceramic constituents towards food. The aptitude test of food contact with traditional ceramics intended to come into contact with foodstuffs which determines lead, cadmium, cobalt, arsenic and aluminum release. The migration tests with traditional ceramic food simulants under contact time and temperature conditions are as close as possible to reality. In the aptitude tests of food contact, the utensils comply with French and European regulations concerning the migration of aluminum, cadmium and lead, except that of cobalt. In migration tests with food simulants, the ceramics presented different results. All utensils can be used without danger, except the plates.展开更多
This review explores the evolution of the textile handicraft industry in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing its cultural and economic significance. The study highlights the transition from traditional practices to modern innov...This review explores the evolution of the textile handicraft industry in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing its cultural and economic significance. The study highlights the transition from traditional practices to modern innovations and examines the impact of globalization and technological advancements on the industry. Key innovations are discussed, demonstrating their role in enhancing textile production while preserving cultural heritage. Major challenges, such as competition from industrial textiles and the need for sustainable practices, are identified. Opportunities for growth are explored, including leveraging tourism and international markets to promote Saudi handicrafts. The social and cultural impacts of the sector are underscored, particularly in sustaining community traditions and providing economic opportunities for artisans. Strategic recommendations for supporting and advancing the industry are offered, ensuring its continued relevance and sustainability in a rapidly changing global market. This analysis provides a robust framework for understanding the current state and future potential of Saudi Arabia’s textile handicraft industry.展开更多
The concept of construction productivity and the needs for incentive schemes towards improving the performance of Artisan has long been established. The choice of particular scheme either financial or non financial an...The concept of construction productivity and the needs for incentive schemes towards improving the performance of Artisan has long been established. The choice of particular scheme either financial or non financial and to what level it contributes to the productivity of employees remain at stake. Therefore, this study set to evaluate the level of awareness, impact and contribution of the schemes with more emphasis to the non financial incentive schemes. A questionnaire survey involving management and artisans of the three tiers of NCl （Nigerian Construction Industry）： large, medium and small within Kaduna and Abuja Nigeria was conducted. Three hundred （300） responses from the management and artisans were used for analysis, inferences and conclusions. The survey result revealed that non-financial incentive schemes are mostly employed in the large and medium scale construction firms. Though, preference by medium and small scale firms was based on those that do not require fund to implement and maintain. It was concluded that, construction firms operating in Nigeria ought to strive more towards implementing non-financial incentive in their organization since artisans are willing to improve their output.展开更多
This paper investigates a unique and interesting archaeological case,namely the newly found inscription copied from Qianzi Wen(The Thousand Character Essay)on the south wall in the main chamber of Mogao cave 9,and ana...This paper investigates a unique and interesting archaeological case,namely the newly found inscription copied from Qianzi Wen(The Thousand Character Essay)on the south wall in the main chamber of Mogao cave 9,and analyzes a series of research topics related to the inscription,hoping to thoroughly reveal the historical and cultural phenomenon of the high popularity and extensive spread of Qianzi Wen in the Tang dynasty,and attempt to restore some living scenes of ancient school students and cave-making artisans.To the best of our knowledge,this is the first time to find Qianzi Wen on the wall in Mogao caves.展开更多
A considerable specific research has been conducted on the enrollment rate of Chin Shih in the Imperial Examination in Ming Dynasty. However, the study of Chin Shih in Artisans Membership was very few. The article foc...A considerable specific research has been conducted on the enrollment rate of Chin Shih in the Imperial Examination in Ming Dynasty. However, the study of Chin Shih in Artisans Membership was very few. The article focus on this problem in the basic of The Title of Monuments and Record of Chin-Shih. The focus of the research is in JiaJing period. The thesis will analysis the regional distribution of these Chin Shih and especially of the South Yangtze River Region. The results shows a link between the enrollment rate and the educational standard.展开更多
The Jiapigou gold mine area, located in the upper reaches of the Songhua River, was the first and largest artisanal gold mine once in China, and it used to be prominent in two marking years(1870 and 1974). Jiapigou ar...The Jiapigou gold mine area, located in the upper reaches of the Songhua River, was the first and largest artisanal gold mine once in China, and it used to be prominent in two marking years(1870 and 1974). Jiapigou area had a gold mining history of more than 190 years, which was first opened in 1820. Gold extraction with algamation was applied as the dominant method of excavation from 1940 to 2008, and a total of more than 100 t of gold were extracted from the mine using this method and it was estimated that 100–200 t Hg were released, thus causing severe mercury environmental pollution in the mining area. In the experimental campaigns of this study, in situ air and soil Hg concentrations and air-soil Hg fluxes were measured from April 2009 to December 2011. The results showed that in the study area the total gaseous mercury(TGM) concentration exhibited remarkable spatial and temporal distribution patterns, i.e. the TGM gradually decreased following the increase in distance to gold mining sites in space, and the values in spring, summer and autumn were elevated by 1–2 orders of magnitude in comparison with those in winter. Furthermore, at other sampling sites the total soil mercury(TSM) concentration in spring was higher than that in autumn, except for the contrary laws demonstrated at the Erdaogou mining site. However, in spring and winter the Hg flux between air and soil was under the control of different environmental factors, and the characteristics were clear and distinct. In spring the Hg flux between air and soil was directly under the control of solar irradiation, and the releasing process was predominant with a remarkable positive correlation to solar irradiation. Nevertheless, in winter the Hg fluxes were indirectly under the control of solar irradiation, which caused thermal inversion due to the thick snow cover. The depositing process was predominant and the correlations between Hg flux and air temperature was remarkably negative, and there was a positive correlation between Hg flux and solar irradiation.展开更多
In 2010, an estimated 400 to 500 children died of acute lead poisoning associated with artisanal gold mining in Zamfara, Nigeria. Processing of gold ores containing up to 10% lead within residential compounds put resi...In 2010, an estimated 400 to 500 children died of acute lead poisoning associated with artisanal gold mining in Zamfara, Nigeria. Processing of gold ores containing up to 10% lead within residential compounds put residents, especially children, at the highest risk. Principal routes of exposure were incidental ingestion and inhalation of contaminated soil and dusts. Several Nigerian and international health organizations collaborated to reduce lead exposures through environmental remediation and medical treatment. The contribution of contaminated food to total lead exposure was assessed during the environmental health response. Objectives of this investigation were to assess the influence of cultural/dietary habits on lead exposure pathways and estimate the contribution of contaminated food to children＇s blood lead levels（BLLs）. A survey of village dietary practices and staple food lead content was conducted to determine dietary composition, caloric intakes, and lead intake. Potential blood lead increments were estimated using bio-kinetic modeling techniques. Most dietary lead exposure was associated with contamination of staple cereal grains and legumes during post-harvest processing and preparation in contaminated homes. Average post-harvest and processed cereal grain lead levels were 0.32 mg/kg and 0.85 mg/kg dry weight, respectively. Age-specific food lead intake ranged from 7 to 78 μg/day. Lead ingestion and absorption were likely aggravated by the dusty environment, fasting between meals, and nutritional deficiencies. Contamination of staple cereal grains by highly bioavailable pulverized ores could account for as much as 11%–34% of children＇s BLLs during the epidemic, and were a continuing source after residential soil remediation until stored grain inventories were exhausted.展开更多
Artisanal gold mining in local communities is on the increase. This has led to concerns about mercury pollution resulting from these mining activities. This study was conducted to assess the level of mercury pollution...Artisanal gold mining in local communities is on the increase. This has led to concerns about mercury pollution resulting from these mining activities. This study was conducted to assess the level of mercury pollution in rivers and streams around artisanal gold mining areas of the Birim North District of Ghana. Rivers, streams, sediments and boreholes were sampled to determine total mercury levels during the wet and dry seasons and to explore the potential impact of the mercury levels on water quality in the area. The results show that the total mercury concentrations measured upstream were significantly lower than concentrations in samples taken downstream. Also, the total mercury concentrations measured in the stream water samples in both seasons exceeded the WHO guideline limit (1.0 μg/L) for drinking water. However, one downstream total mercury concentration exceeded the guideline limit in the dry season. The total mercury concentrations in sediments upstream and downstream in both seasons exceeded the US-EPA guideline value of 0.2 mg/kg. The boreholes in the study area have total mercury concentrations exceeding the WHO guideline limit during both seasons. Total mercury concentrations in the boreholes in the wet season were lower than the dry season.展开更多
文摘This paper explored the antecedents and the role of local artisans in Spatial Planning (SP) activities in Ghana. The paper was based on the results of an inspection of 5896 already built houses at Mepe in the Volta Region of Ghana. A mixed method research approach was used to gather the data through snowball non-probability sampling technique. It enabled the researchers to identify 100 local artisans. Survey questionnaires were used, which was followed by structured interviews with five (5) elders who lived in the town for over 65 years. The results showed that the early houses were built on community lands with mud and thatch clustered with narrow and unnamed alleys. Property owners heavily depended on local artisans for professional guidance, although some artisans were ill-trained and unaware of existing government SP regulations. The study was limited to artisans who practiced at the local community level. The findings showed that many local artisans were poorly trained, resulting in poor workmanship and non-compliance with local planning regulations. The paper recommends the integration of SP into the artisanal curricula at both local and national levels to improve their skills.
文摘1 Three hundred years ago,merchants from Shanxi Province exported tea to foreign countries on the Eurasian continent,and in turn they brought back the secrets of glassware manufacturing.Luo Qinqin,a 40‑year‑old native of Qixian county in Shanxi,is a skilled glass worker in Shanxi.She is one of the few female artisans who have mastered the craft of glass pulling.
文摘In the context of global digital transformation and the rising prominence of maker education,this study explores the innovative integration of digital modeling technologies with traditional Nixing Pottery craftsmanship.By constructing a teaching framework under maker education theory,the research investigates how 3D modeling,CAD design,and 3D printing technologies can empower learners to address challenges in cultural heritage preservation and artistic innovation.Through experimental teaching and case analysis,the study verifies that this integrated approach significantly enhances learners’digital literacy,creative thinking,and cultural identity while optimizing Nixing Pottery’s production processes and design possibilities.The findings contribute to theoretical models of technology-enhanced craft education and provide practical pathways for the digital transformation of intangible cultural heritage.
文摘Artisanal gold mining,a labor-intensive and antiquated technique,is a growing industry and the source of income for rural communities all over the world.However,artisanal gold mining has potential negative and long-term effects on economy,environment,and society.This study collected soil samples from 16 sample points including a control point to examine the pollution degrees and spatial distribution of heavy metals,as well as ecological and health risks associated with heavy metal pollution in the Ijero-Ekiti mining site,Nigeria.Geographical Information System(GIS)and remote sensing technologies were used to identify regions with high concentrations of heavy metals and assess the environmental impact of gold mining activities.The results show that the mean heavy metal concentrations of 16 soil pointa are 8.94(±5.97)mg/kg for As,0.18(±0.54)mg/kg for Cd,0.11(±1.06)mg/kg for Co,14.32(±3.43)mg/kg for Cr,6.89(±0.64)mg/kg for Cu,48.92(±11.77)mg/kg for Fe,135.81(±30.75)mg/kg for Mn,5.92(±0.96)mg/kg for Ni,5.72(±1.66)mg/kg for Pb,and 13.94(±1.38)mg/kg for Zn.The study reveals that heavy metal concentration in soils follows the order of Mn>Fe>Cr>Zn>As>Cu>Ni>Pb>Co>Cd.An analysis of soil samples indicates that 3 principal components(PCs)account for 70.008%of the total variance and there are strong positive correlations between various pairs of heavy metals.The total potential ecological risk index(309.599)in the study area is high.Non-carcinogenic risk suggests that there may be long-term health impacts on people who work in the mining areas due to chronic exposure to the environment.Based on the study,the hazard index of carcinogenic health risks associated with heavy metals through ingestion is 520.00×10^(–4).Dermal contact from As and Cr also increases the risk of cancer,with the highest hazard index value of 18.40×10^(–4).The lowest exposure pathway,with the hazard index value of 0.68×10^(–4),indicates that the inhalation of heavy metals has a comparatively low risk of cancer.This study recommends the formulation of policies to monitor the Ijero-Ekiti mining site and other regions in Nigeria where indiscriminate artisanal gold mining activities exist.
文摘In Côte d’Ivoire, there is no regulation regarding the use of traditional ceramics in food. However, their possible impact on human health is not known. Two types of tests must be carried out to study container/content interactions in order to ensure a possible migration of ceramic constituents towards food. The aptitude test of food contact with traditional ceramics intended to come into contact with foodstuffs which determines lead, cadmium, cobalt, arsenic and aluminum release. The migration tests with traditional ceramic food simulants under contact time and temperature conditions are as close as possible to reality. In the aptitude tests of food contact, the utensils comply with French and European regulations concerning the migration of aluminum, cadmium and lead, except that of cobalt. In migration tests with food simulants, the ceramics presented different results. All utensils can be used without danger, except the plates.
文摘This review explores the evolution of the textile handicraft industry in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing its cultural and economic significance. The study highlights the transition from traditional practices to modern innovations and examines the impact of globalization and technological advancements on the industry. Key innovations are discussed, demonstrating their role in enhancing textile production while preserving cultural heritage. Major challenges, such as competition from industrial textiles and the need for sustainable practices, are identified. Opportunities for growth are explored, including leveraging tourism and international markets to promote Saudi handicrafts. The social and cultural impacts of the sector are underscored, particularly in sustaining community traditions and providing economic opportunities for artisans. Strategic recommendations for supporting and advancing the industry are offered, ensuring its continued relevance and sustainability in a rapidly changing global market. This analysis provides a robust framework for understanding the current state and future potential of Saudi Arabia’s textile handicraft industry.
文摘The concept of construction productivity and the needs for incentive schemes towards improving the performance of Artisan has long been established. The choice of particular scheme either financial or non financial and to what level it contributes to the productivity of employees remain at stake. Therefore, this study set to evaluate the level of awareness, impact and contribution of the schemes with more emphasis to the non financial incentive schemes. A questionnaire survey involving management and artisans of the three tiers of NCl （Nigerian Construction Industry）： large, medium and small within Kaduna and Abuja Nigeria was conducted. Three hundred （300） responses from the management and artisans were used for analysis, inferences and conclusions. The survey result revealed that non-financial incentive schemes are mostly employed in the large and medium scale construction firms. Though, preference by medium and small scale firms was based on those that do not require fund to implement and maintain. It was concluded that, construction firms operating in Nigeria ought to strive more towards implementing non-financial incentive in their organization since artisans are willing to improve their output.
基金This study was part of“The Investigation and Research of the Inscriptions Left by Visitors in the Past dynasties in Dunhuang Caves”supported by the Western Program of National Social and Scientific Fund(18XKG008).
文摘This paper investigates a unique and interesting archaeological case,namely the newly found inscription copied from Qianzi Wen(The Thousand Character Essay)on the south wall in the main chamber of Mogao cave 9,and analyzes a series of research topics related to the inscription,hoping to thoroughly reveal the historical and cultural phenomenon of the high popularity and extensive spread of Qianzi Wen in the Tang dynasty,and attempt to restore some living scenes of ancient school students and cave-making artisans.To the best of our knowledge,this is the first time to find Qianzi Wen on the wall in Mogao caves.
文摘A considerable specific research has been conducted on the enrollment rate of Chin Shih in the Imperial Examination in Ming Dynasty. However, the study of Chin Shih in Artisans Membership was very few. The article focus on this problem in the basic of The Title of Monuments and Record of Chin-Shih. The focus of the research is in JiaJing period. The thesis will analysis the regional distribution of these Chin Shih and especially of the South Yangtze River Region. The results shows a link between the enrollment rate and the educational standard.
基金Under the auspices of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.4067305941772236)+1 种基金the 13th Five Years Research Project for Science and Technology of Education Department(No.JJKH20170922KJJJKH20170920KJ)
文摘The Jiapigou gold mine area, located in the upper reaches of the Songhua River, was the first and largest artisanal gold mine once in China, and it used to be prominent in two marking years(1870 and 1974). Jiapigou area had a gold mining history of more than 190 years, which was first opened in 1820. Gold extraction with algamation was applied as the dominant method of excavation from 1940 to 2008, and a total of more than 100 t of gold were extracted from the mine using this method and it was estimated that 100–200 t Hg were released, thus causing severe mercury environmental pollution in the mining area. In the experimental campaigns of this study, in situ air and soil Hg concentrations and air-soil Hg fluxes were measured from April 2009 to December 2011. The results showed that in the study area the total gaseous mercury(TGM) concentration exhibited remarkable spatial and temporal distribution patterns, i.e. the TGM gradually decreased following the increase in distance to gold mining sites in space, and the values in spring, summer and autumn were elevated by 1–2 orders of magnitude in comparison with those in winter. Furthermore, at other sampling sites the total soil mercury(TSM) concentration in spring was higher than that in autumn, except for the contrary laws demonstrated at the Erdaogou mining site. However, in spring and winter the Hg flux between air and soil was under the control of different environmental factors, and the characteristics were clear and distinct. In spring the Hg flux between air and soil was directly under the control of solar irradiation, and the releasing process was predominant with a remarkable positive correlation to solar irradiation. Nevertheless, in winter the Hg fluxes were indirectly under the control of solar irradiation, which caused thermal inversion due to the thick snow cover. The depositing process was predominant and the correlations between Hg flux and air temperature was remarkably negative, and there was a positive correlation between Hg flux and solar irradiation.
文摘In 2010, an estimated 400 to 500 children died of acute lead poisoning associated with artisanal gold mining in Zamfara, Nigeria. Processing of gold ores containing up to 10% lead within residential compounds put residents, especially children, at the highest risk. Principal routes of exposure were incidental ingestion and inhalation of contaminated soil and dusts. Several Nigerian and international health organizations collaborated to reduce lead exposures through environmental remediation and medical treatment. The contribution of contaminated food to total lead exposure was assessed during the environmental health response. Objectives of this investigation were to assess the influence of cultural/dietary habits on lead exposure pathways and estimate the contribution of contaminated food to children＇s blood lead levels（BLLs）. A survey of village dietary practices and staple food lead content was conducted to determine dietary composition, caloric intakes, and lead intake. Potential blood lead increments were estimated using bio-kinetic modeling techniques. Most dietary lead exposure was associated with contamination of staple cereal grains and legumes during post-harvest processing and preparation in contaminated homes. Average post-harvest and processed cereal grain lead levels were 0.32 mg/kg and 0.85 mg/kg dry weight, respectively. Age-specific food lead intake ranged from 7 to 78 μg/day. Lead ingestion and absorption were likely aggravated by the dusty environment, fasting between meals, and nutritional deficiencies. Contamination of staple cereal grains by highly bioavailable pulverized ores could account for as much as 11%–34% of children＇s BLLs during the epidemic, and were a continuing source after residential soil remediation until stored grain inventories were exhausted.
文摘Artisanal gold mining in local communities is on the increase. This has led to concerns about mercury pollution resulting from these mining activities. This study was conducted to assess the level of mercury pollution in rivers and streams around artisanal gold mining areas of the Birim North District of Ghana. Rivers, streams, sediments and boreholes were sampled to determine total mercury levels during the wet and dry seasons and to explore the potential impact of the mercury levels on water quality in the area. The results show that the total mercury concentrations measured upstream were significantly lower than concentrations in samples taken downstream. Also, the total mercury concentrations measured in the stream water samples in both seasons exceeded the WHO guideline limit (1.0 μg/L) for drinking water. However, one downstream total mercury concentration exceeded the guideline limit in the dry season. The total mercury concentrations in sediments upstream and downstream in both seasons exceeded the US-EPA guideline value of 0.2 mg/kg. The boreholes in the study area have total mercury concentrations exceeding the WHO guideline limit during both seasons. Total mercury concentrations in the boreholes in the wet season were lower than the dry season.
