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Showing 19981 – 20000 of 30345 publications

Dynamic Identification and Static Loading Tests of Timbrel Vaults: Application to a Modernist 20th Century Heritage Structure

Palau de la Música Catalana and Hospital de Sant Pau, Barcelona — 2017 — WHEE68A93FB8B

A critical insight from this study is that secondary masonry elements, such as upper slabs and extrados stiffening diaphragms, play an essential role in the structural behavior of timbrel vaults. These elements significantly influence both dynamic and static responses, necessitating their explicit inclusion in Finite Element Method (FEM) simulations for accurate modeling. The research employed a combination of laboratory and in-situ experiments, including dynamic identification and static loading tests, to analyze the Administration Pavilion of Hospital de Sant Pau in Barcelona. FEM models were used to simulate the observed behavior, highlighting the importance of considering these secondary structural components for precise analysis.

Dynamic Measurements as Support to the Assessment of the Monastery of Santa Maria Da Vitoria, Batalha

Monastery of Batalha — 2017 — WHE454C3C527D

A study on the Monastery of Santa Maria da Vitoria (Batalha) reveals that traffic-induced vibrations, despite being significant due to its proximity to a high-traffic road, remain within safe limits set by international standards. Researchers used accelerometers to measure vibration levels across the monastery's courtyard and at key points like the Combatant Museum and Founder's Chapel over several days. The findings indicate that the maximum measured velocity does not exceed thresholds defined by German DIN 4150 and Italian UNI 9916 standards, suggesting minimal risk of structural damage from traffic vibrations. This assessment provides critical data for preserving this UNESCO-listed monument, symbolizing Portugal's Avis Dynasty.

Dynamic properties of Byblos municipality building with soil-structure interaction using geophysical methods

Byblos — 2017 — WHE024D3FD615

Research reveals that the Byblos Municipality building, a critical infrastructure for disaster response, exhibits dynamic properties influenced by soil-structure interaction (SSI), with potential resonance risks during seismic events. The study employed the horizontal-to-vertical spectral ratio (HVNR) method to analyze ambient noise recordings, identifying structural frequencies and damping characteristics while also determining natural soil frequency. Multichannel analysis of surface waves (MASW) was used alongside classical geotechnical tests to assess subsurface stiffness and shear wave velocities. Comparative analysis with a finite element model (FEM) and conventional building code formulae highlighted discrepancies in resonance frequency predictions, underscoring the need for refined seismic risk mitigation strategies. This work provides critical insights into SSI dynamics for earthquake-resistant design in historically significant coastal urban areas.

Dynamics of archaea at fine spatial scales in Shark Bay mat microbiomes

Shark Bay, Western Australia — 2017 — WHECCFB0DE3EF

A groundbreaking study reveals that microbial mats in Shark Bay, Australia, host distinct archaeal communities with significant differences between smooth and pustular mat structures. Smooth mats exhibit higher archaeal diversity, dominated by Parvarchaeota, while pustular mats are enriched with Halobacteria and Parvarchaeota. The research, employing high-throughput amplicon sequencing and biogeochemical analysis, found that methane production peaks in oxic layers of smooth mats, suggesting the presence of surface anoxic niches where anaerobic methanogens thrive despite high oxygen levels. This discovery challenges conventional understanding of microbial mat ecosystems and highlights the complex interplay between oxygen dynamics and archaeal metabolism.

Dynamics of Suspended Sediments during a Dry Season and Their Consequences on Metal Transportation in a Coral Reef Lagoon Impacted by Mining Activities, New Caledonia

Lagoons of New Caledonia: Reef Diversity and Associated Ecosystems — 2017 — WHEA7414D106A

Research reveals that particle aggregation reduces metal concentrations in suspended particulate matter (SPM) during dry seasons, significantly impacting metal transportation in coral reef lagoons affected by mining activities. The study quantified vertical fluxes of SPM and metals across three bays in New Caledonia's lagoon system—Boulari Bay (moderately impacted), St Vincent Bay (highly impacted), and Dumbéa Bay (weakly impacted)—finding average SPM fluxes of 37.70 ± 14.60 g·m²·d⁻¹, with fine particles dominating. Wind and tidal cycles emerged as key drivers, particularly in St Vincent and Dumbéa Bays, where metal dynamics were closely tied to clay, iron minerals, and carbonate transport from rivers and lagoonal sources. The decline in metal distribution constants (Kd) underscored the role of aggregation in mitigating metal loads, offering critical insights for managing mining impacts on these fragile ecosystems.

Dynamique des végétations sur le causse du Larzac au cours des 8000 dernières années : contribution de l’étude anthracologique du Rajal del Gorp (Millau, Aveyron).

The Causses and the Cévennes, Mediterranean agro-pastoral Cultural Landscape — 2017 — WHEEBD86E512F

A comprehensive anthracological study of the Rajal del Gorp cave on the Larzac Plateau reveals significant shifts in vegetation dynamics over the last 8,000 years, driven by postglacial climate warming. The research highlights a transition from pine-dominated landscapes to mixed oak-pine forests, with oak becoming dominant by the late Neolithic period. Rare heather taxa, linked to moderate forest opening or grazing, emerged during the Middle/Final Neolithic and persisted until the site's abandonment. This study provides novel insights into Holocene vegetation changes on the Larzac Plateau, contrasting with patterns observed in neighboring regions like the Causses Noir or southern sites at lower altitudes. The research is based on a 16-layered sediment sequence from the cave, offering the most detailed anthropogenic and environmental record for this area.

Dziedzictwo jako scena rytualna. Przypadek Starego Miasta w Krakowie

Historic Centre of Kraków — 2017 — WHE3DF7F94FB1

The Old Town of Kraków serves as a symbolic stage for contemporary Polish debates on national identity and political stances. This study reveals that the historic architecture, churches, and monuments are reinterpreted in diverse rituals, reflecting differing political and religious worldviews. By analyzing two significant events—the 2016 Black Protest (a feminist demonstration against abortion law restrictions) and the White March (a pro-life event aligned with the Roman Catholic Church)—the research demonstrates how heritage spaces can be appropriated to convey contrasting messages. This juxtaposition highlights the multifaceted role of heritage in shaping public discourse.

E. coli and Coliform Bacteria as Indicators for Drinking Water Quality and Handling of Drinking Water in the Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal

Sagarmatha National Park — 2017 — WHE077AC9E9CE

A study conducted during the 2016 pre-monsoon dry season in the Khumbu Valley, Sagarmatha National Park (SNP), and its buffer zone revealed significant fecal contamination in drinking water sources, primarily groundwater-fed springs. The research found weak correlations between total coliform data and increasing temperature, decreasing elevation, and pH, but a notable correlation between population density—including tourist numbers—and higher levels of E. coli and total coliforms. Importantly, drinking water stored in tanks or transported long distances exhibited much higher bacterial contamination, suggesting that improved water handling practices could significantly enhance drinking water quality and public health outcomes.

Early athyride brachiopod evolution through the Ordovician-Silurian mass extinction and recovery, Anticosti Island, eastern Canada

Anticosti — 2017 — WHE33EE14FD4C

A new understanding of early athyride brachiopod evolution through the Ordovician-Silurian mass extinction and recovery on Anticosti Island, eastern Canada, has been revealed. The study reexamines four genera (Hindella, Cryptothyrella, Koigia, and Hyattidina) based on their internal structures, transferring them from Meristellinae to Hindellinae subfamily. Key findings include the identification of Elkanathyris pallulan as a posteriorly ribbed hindellide of Aeronian age and the discovery that Hindella became extinct during the last Ordovician mass extinction event, which also extinguished the Laframboise reefs. Post-extinction recovery was pioneered by small-shelled Koigia in the basal Silurian Becscie Formation. The research refines biostratigraphy around the O-S boundary and sheds light on the nature of this critical mass extinction event.

Early State Economics: Cahokia, Capital of the Ramey State

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site — 2017 — WHECDEEB0F368

Cahokia, located at the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, is identified as the capital of the Ramey state, offering significant insights into early state economics. The study reveals that Cahokia's economy was primarily agricultural, centered around corn and squash cultivation, which supported a substantial population engaged in building earthen mounds, ceremonial structures, and elite residences. Evidence suggests the presence of a trader class among the Middle Mississippians' descendants, contributing to the economic complexity of the society. The concept of tribute is also explored, distinguishing it from taxation by highlighting its role as a recurring payment from one people to another's ruler.

Earth-based construction material field tests characterization in the Alto Douro Wine Region

Alto Douro Wine Region — 2017 — WHE36594A2383

Field tests for characterizing earth-based materials in tabique buildings, a traditional construction method in the Alto Douro Wine Regionreveal critical insights into their physical and chemical properties. This study marks the first systematic evaluation of such materials in situ, providing a foundation for assessing material suitability for conservation, rehabilitation, or new constructions. The research proposes a series of field tests to guide future normative documents, offering architects and engineers actionable knowledge to preserve this vernacular heritage. By addressing the lack of scientific studies on tabique technology, this work bridges gaps in traditional building practices while ensuring sustainable preservation efforts.

Ecohydrological interactions within “fairy circles” in the Namib Desert: Revisiting the self‐organization hypothesis

Namib Sand Sea — 2017 — WHEA79A1908C0

Fairy circles, the distinctive circular vegetation patterns found in the Namib Desert's arid grasslands, exhibit significant hydrological heterogeneity driven by soil textural variations. Research reveals that coarser particles dominate inner bare areas, while fine sediments accumulate on vegetated edges, influenced by plant-mediated sediment trapping. This process alters infiltration and runoff dynamics, supporting the self-organization hypothesis of fairy circle formation. The study, conducted in a region devoid of sand termite activity, provides novel insights into ecohydrological processes through extensive field measurements of soil moisture, infiltration rates, grass biometrics, and sediment grain-size distribution across multiple circles and interspaces.

Ecological resilience to coffee rust: Varietal adaptations of coffee farmers in Copán, Honduras

Maya Site of Copan — 2017 — WHE5E369C2976

After the post-2011 coffee leaf rust (CLR) epidemic, smallholder farmers in Copán, Honduras, significantly increased their cultivation of CLR-resistant coffee varieties. While both conventional and organic farmers expanded their use of resistant varieties, organic farmers retained more acreage of susceptible varieties compared to conventional farmers. This shift has implications for the specialty coffee market, fungicide use, and agricultural management strategies. The study highlights the adaptive practices of smallholders in response to CLR, emphasizing the need to understand farmers' decision-making processes to inform aid and policy interventions effectively.

Ecology and behaviour of Palm-nut Vultures Gypohierax angolensis in the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau

Coastal and Marine Ecosystems of the Bijagós Archipelago – Omatí Minhô — 2017 — WHED6452F7D87

A recent study in the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau, reveals that Palm-nut Vultures (Gypohierax angolensis) rely heavily on oil palm fruits for sustenance, despite preferring fish in cafeteria trials. Using stable isotope analysis and Bayesian mixing models, researchers estimated that nearly 50% of the vultures' assimilated diet consists of these fruits, followed by fish, crabs, and Green Turtle hatchlings or eggs. The study also found a population density of 21–30 birds per km² in João Vieira and Poilão Marine National Park, with egg-laying occurring from November to May and an annual fledgling success rate of at least 54%. Additionally, the vultures were observed to molt all flight feathers annually between January and November. This research sheds light on the species' ecological and behavioral adaptations, contributing crucial data for conservation efforts.

Economic Valuation of the Sundarbans Reserved Forest of Bangladesh The Zonal Travel Cost Method

The Sundarbans — 2017 — WHE359A22D00C

The Sundarbans Reserved Forest (SRF) in Bangladesh, home to the world's largest tidal mangrove ecosystem and rich biodiversity, including endangered species, has been economically valued at approximately 197 million Tk. per year using the zonal travel cost method. This study analyzed responses from 300 visitors over seven days, establishing a direct relationship between recreational value and travel costs. The findings suggest that an entrance fee of 50 Tk. per person could generate around 5,000,000 Tk. annually, sufficient for mangrove management and biodiversity conservation efforts. This approach provides a critical tool for balancing ecotourism development with environmental preservation in this UNESCO-recognized site.

Ecotourism under pressure: The political economy of oil extraction and cruise ship tourism threats to sustainable development in Belize

Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System — 2017 — WHE2D69099F09

A critical shift in Belize's development trajectory threatens its sustainable future, driven by the dual pressures of oil extraction and mass cruise ship tourism. Despite Belize's historical commitment to ecotourism—fueled by its globally significant biodiversity, including the world's largest intact barrier reef—the discovery of oil deposits has prompted a rapid reorientation toward extractive industries. This study reveals how global demand for fossil fuels, coupled with the economic allure of cruise ship tourism, undermines environmental protection efforts. While conservation organizations and ecotourism stakeholders have provided resistance, the Belizean state's prioritization of extraction over sustainability raises broader concerns about the resilience of ecosystems in a growth-dependent global economy.

Écrire l’histoire des abbés du Mont Saint-Michel1. Les auteurs du De abbatibus

Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay — 2017 — WHEC07FAC6F03

A groundbreaking study sheds light on the authorship and composition timeline of De abbatibus hujus loci rubrica abreviata, a key 12th-century chronicle detailing the abbots of Mont-Saint-Michel. The research identifies the primary contributors and phases of writing, with a focus on Robert de Torigni, a renowned Anglo-Norman chronicler who served as both a monk at Le Bec (1128–1154) and abbot of Mont-Saint-Michel (1154–1186). This work aims to refine the chronology of abbots from the 10th to 12th centuries, offering deeper insights into medieval monastic history. The study employs textual analysis and historical reconstruction to unravel the complexities of this influential manuscript.

Education in New Lanark and in Bentham’s proposal

New Lanark — 2017 — WHED75867575C

This study contrasts the educational philosophies of Robert Owen and Jeremy Bentham, highlighting their distinct approaches to education within industrial settings. Owen's model, implemented at New Lanark, emphasized mutual cooperation and learning through play, reflecting his broader vision for societal reform. In contrast, Bentham's proposal focused on memorization driven by rewards or punishments, lacking the emphasis on social interaction seen in Owen's approach. The research synthesizes Enlightenment-era ideas with Owen's industrial experience, revealing a nuanced understanding of educational strategies that prioritize either intrinsic motivation or extrinsic control.

Edward the Confessor’s Shrine in Westminster Abbey: its Date of Construction Reconsidered

Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey including Saint Margaret’s Church — 2017 — WHEDC2DB9699A

A re-evaluation of Edward the Confessor’s shrine at Westminster Abbey challenges long-standing assumptions about its construction date. The study identifies a scribal error in manuscript evidence that has been used to support a later dating, tracing this error to its source and proposing an alternative original reading for the inscription on the shrine pedestal. This finding suggests that the shrine may have been constructed earlier than previously thought, reshaping our understanding of its historical significance within Westminster Abbey's architectural and religious landscape.

Effect of Partial Use of Venice Flood Barriers

Venice and its Lagoon — 2017 — WHEBAEA39B7DF

A numerical analysis demonstrates that closing only two of the three Venice lagoon inlets during severe storm surges can effectively safeguard water levels without exceeding critical thresholds, while allowing uninterrupted vessel transit through the open inlet. This approach mitigates the slowdown in maritime traffic caused by full barrier activation, offering a balanced solution for flood defense and port operations. The study identifies specific meteorological conditions under which partial closure of barriers maintains acceptable water levels, providing actionable insights for the MoSE system's operational strategy.