Advances in Geosciences 

Evidence of the complex evolution related to two superposed orogeneses is recorded by the orogens stretched along the Mediterranean area. Evidence of the Variscan tectono-metamorphic phenomena is recorded in the Paleozoic successions exposed in the Betic–Rifian Arc, Algeria, Calabria–Peloritani Arc, Apennines, Corsica–Sardinia block, and the Alps. Evidence of the Alpine tectono-metamorphic evolution, superposed on part of these ancient basements, is widespread in the Mesozoic to Cenozoic stratigraphic record preserved in the Mediterranean Alpine chain with spectacular synorogenic to late orogenic compressional and extensional deformation.

The Alpine synorogenic to late (post-)orogenic tectono-sedimentary evolution recorded by the basins stretched on and along the Alpine belt testifies to the Tertiary to Quaternary evolution of this complex framework of the Mediterranean area. The interplay between tectonics and sedimentation ruled the synorogenic sedimentation in the Foreland Basin System, including back bulge, fore bulge, foredeep, and wedge-top basins. Sedimentary facies analysis and paleoenvironment evolution of depositional systems, together with sediment provenance studies as well as paleogeographic, paleoecologic, and paleoclimatic reconstructions, provide further constraints to trace the evolution of these sedimentary basins.

Accordingly, this special issue welcomes research contributions on earth sciences (regional geology; stratigraphy; palaeontology; sedimentology; structural geology; tectonics; mineralogy; petrography; sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic petrology; geochemistry; geochronology) related to the geological evolution of the central–western Mediterranean area.

The use of geological evidence may help the judicial system to solve cases of homicide, corpse concealment, hit-and-run accidents, kidnappings, sexual assaults, geohazard problematics, environmental damages, animal maltreatment, wildlife crimes, and gemstone and fossil fraud. Forensic geologists may be supported by a team of experts during the scientific investigation of the most serious crimes. Geology, botany, and entomology are significant branches of the forensic sciences that may be simultaneously involved in a holistic approach for analysing inorganic (minerals and rocks), anthropogenic (glass, brick fragments), and organic (plant and insect remains) materials found as trace or micro-trace physical evidence at outdoor crime scenes and on the victim and/or suspect in cases of homicide or ground concealment. Different analytical methods are applied to geological trace evidence to identify, characterize, and quantify the geological trace. These analyses may be non-destructive (as in the case of gemstone fraud) or destructive. Most aim to obtain information on the compatibility degree among unknown and known samples and the possible provenance. Based on the above, different experts may collaborate with geologists and investigate geological evidence together in research teams. Geologists approaching forensic geology need to master sedimentology, micropaleontology, physical geology, petrography, gemology, geochemistry, hydrogeology, soil sciences, geomorphology, stratigraphy, regional geology, remote sensing, and applied geology and geophysics. Botanists address their investigation in forensic botany by studying plant ecology, vegetal anatomy, systematics, palynology, algology, and plant DNA in soil and sediment. On the other hand, entomologists approach forensic entomology by studying chemistry, biology, human and animal health, molecular science, and animal DNA in soil and sediment. Accordingly, this special issue welcomes research contributions on earth sciences, environmental sciences, botany, and entomology with a holistic approach to solving criminal cases. In this context, particular attention will be given to the following topics: comparative analyses of geological trace evidence, reconstruction of walking, study of and search for clandestine graves, geographical profiling, environmental forensics, and gemstone fraud.

An essential part of what gives artifacts or buildings character and a sense of belonging is the history they represent. One way of acknowledging this history is by understanding the materials' values, their sources, their diffusion through trade and use, and the processes behind their manufacturing or building. These peculiar features may be an example of a particular style of architecture, represent a significant era, represent superb craftsmanship and exquisite artistic features that were achieved during a significant period, or also represent a milestone in a city’s history. These historical and cultural heritages are worth preserving for an endless number of reasons. Old artifacts or buildings are witnesses to society’s aesthetic and cultural history, helping to give people a sense of place and connection to the past. Historical and cultural heritage is often created with unique, valuable natural or synthetic materials. These were used over space and time as implements, ornaments, pigments, building materials, and raw materials for metals, ceramics, and other processed products. They may have detailing and features that cannot be found anymore. Conservation of these artifacts or buildings deals with actions and processes aimed at preserving their values and prolonging their physical lives. Specific approaches, standards, protocols, techniques, and intervention methods need to be continuously revised and developed in view of both technological and contextual changes to which they are applied.

This session is thus conceived to foster ideas and information as well as update innovation on non-invasive and micro-invasive investigations at both the qualitative and quantitative level that are suitable for cultural heritage across several disciplines. Material composition, authentication, provenance, dating, production technology, and state of conservation represent just some fundamental information obtained from spectroscopic methods that is accessible through conventional laboratories and/or large facilities, together with geophysical approaches. In this scenario, the material characterization domain involves a wide variety of techniques, each promoting a different level of understanding of the materials, their features, and their functions. Accordingly, research and review papers on traditional and innovative investigations as well as material characterization analysis in the field of cultural heritage are welcomed in this session.