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Showing 2121 – 2140 of 15962 publications

Forum theatre as a tool to promote positive donkey welfare on Lamu Island, Kenya

Lamu Old Town — 2025 — WHEA54808C018

Forum theatre emerges as a powerful tool for promoting positive donkey welfare in resource-poor, geographically isolated communities like Lamu Old Town, Kenya. The study demonstrates that this arts-based approach effectively raises awareness about key welfare issues—donkey health needs, welfare needs, and load-carrying limits—in both adult and youth audiences. Post-performance questionnaires revealed significant shifts in attitudes, particularly among children, who showed increased recognition of donkeys' pain responses and emotional states. Over 90% of adults reported heightened awareness after the performance, underscoring forum theatre's potential to bridge gaps in traditional engagement methods. This innovative approach offers a scalable solution for animal welfare advocacy in equid-reliant communities.

Found in Sursee-Zellmoos (Switzerland) but from where did it come?

Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps — 2025 — WHE5C33BF8C87

Recent excavations at Sursee-Zellmoos, part of the UNESCO-listed Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps, have uncovered lithic artefacts that challenge assumptions about Neolithic trade networks. While most silicite tools originate from local sources, two axe blades—one of unknown origin—suggest long-distance exchange or mining contexts. Preliminary analyses hint at a non-local provenance for one blade, though further investigation is needed to confirm its exact source. This discovery sheds light on the complexity of raw material procurement and inter-regional connections during the Neolithic period.

Fragments from the book about the Narva trade Nowgorodfahrer from Lübeck: Fees on goods exported from Narva during the Livonian War

Hanseatic City of Lübeck — 2025 — WHEFEF6FA10F2

A rare merchant's book from the Hanseatic city of Lübeck reveals that export fees on goods from Narva during the Livonian War (1563–1577) were not only a key revenue source for the Nowgorodfahrer trade association but also reflected political instability in the Baltic region. The analysis of commodity lists—covering 1563, 1564, 1568, and 1577—showed that fluctuations in fees correlated with shifts in regional power dynamics, providing a previously overlooked economic lens on wartime trade. These fees supported collective activities such as warehouse maintenance, ship chartering, and personnel costs, offering new insights into Hanseatic commercial logistics during conflict.

Framing, Discourse, and Power Dynamics in the Venezuelan Ecosocialism Narrative: The Unbearable Burden on Vulnerable Communities.

Canaima National Park — 2025 — WHEF1A6E8EDB3

Venezuela's ecosocialist policies, while framed as progressive, disproportionately burden indigenous and Afro-descendant communities through alliances with extractive industries. A comparative analysis of Laguna de Píritu, Morrocoy National Park, and Canaima National Park reveals a 'Polluter-Industrial Complex' that exacerbates environmental degradation and social inequalities. The study exposes how the regime co-opts discourses from indigenous and feminist movements to mask neoliberal practices, highlighting systemic oppression at the intersection of race, class, gender, and environmental harm. It calls for equitable, sustainable solutions prioritizing ecological integrity and social justice.

Från den gruvliga till den ljuvliga sidan

Mining Area of the Great Copper Mountain in Falun — 2025 — WHE18F2A9E10D

Recent archaeological research in Falun, Sweden, has challenged the long-standing perception of the town's western 'mine side' as barren and devoid of vegetation due to industrial pollution. Instead, new methods have uncovered evidence of historical urban cultivation, revealing a more complex environmental history. The study highlights that even though the copper mine, Sweden's oldest known source of environmental contamination, is now closed, its legacy continues to influence the landscape. By examining traces of plant growth and comparing them with the lush 'delightful side' on the east bank of Faluån, researchers have reshaped our understanding of Falun's past, demonstrating that resilience and adaptation were possible even in contaminated environments.

From an Ecological Perspective: Conservation and Study of the World Heritage - Mixed Property of Mount Emei

Mount Emei Scenic Area, including Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Area — 2025 — WHEB3C57B51A4

Mount Emei, part of the UNESCO World Heritage site 'Mount Emei Scenic Area, including Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Area,' stands out for its rich biodiversity, unique geological features, and deep cultural heritage. A new study highlights the ecological foundation supporting this dual heritage, emphasizing the interplay between natural and cultural elements. Through literature analysis and comparative research, the paper systematically reviews Mount Emei's conservation status and explores global strategies for managing mixed heritage sites. The findings provide actionable insights for preserving its ecological integrity while safeguarding its cultural significance.

From an Eighteenth Dynasty Elite Individual’s Tomb to a Coptic Structure: The Tomb of the Overseer of the Seal, Ty

Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis — 2025 — WHE78C6EFC7FD

Excavations at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis have uncovered evidence that the tomb of Ty, an 18th Dynasty overseer of the seal serving under Hatshepsut and Thutmose III, was repurposed during the Coptic or Late Antique Period. Unlike other tombs in the Wadi 300 necropolis, which remained as burial sites for high-status officials like Inebny, Montuiwy, and Renna, Ty’s tomb was transformed into a habitation structure. This discovery, conducted by the New Kingdom Research Foundation (NKRF) in November 2021, highlights the dynamic reuse of ancient structures across different historical periods, offering new insights into the evolution of Thebes' necropolis.

From Ancient Techniques to Modern Solutions: In Situ Synthesis of C‐S‐H for Sandstone Conservation

Dazu Rock Carvings — 2025 — WHEDE91644A41

A breakthrough in heritage conservation has been achieved with the development of a C-S-H-based grouting material, inspired by ancient Roman techniques. This innovative solution effectively addresses water-induced erosive damage in sandstone, particularly in the Beishan Grottoes of the Dazu Rock Carvings. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed that hydrogen bonding at the interface between C-S-H mortar and sandstone is crucial for adhesion. The study systematically optimized the mechanical properties and pore structure of C-S-H-based mortars by varying calcium-to-silica (C/S) ratio, water-to-binder ratio, binder/aggregate ratio, and polycarboxylate superplasticizer content. Optimal performance was found with a C/S ratio of 0.8, water/binder ratio of 2.0, binder/aggregate ratio of 1:3, and 4 wt% superplasticizer. Laboratory experiments confirmed the excellent compatibility of this material with sandstone, offering a promising solution for the conservation of the Beishan Grottoes.

From Axis to Artifact: Materializing Yogyakarta’s Cultural Philosophy in Souvenirs

The Cosmological Axis of Yogyakarta and its Historic Landmarks — 2025 — WHE84ADBB13A9

Souvenirs from UNESCO World Heritage Sites can effectively transmit cultural values and local identity when designed with modular, miniature-based approaches that incorporate educational elements. This study demonstrates how such designs, enhanced by technologies like QR codes, can accurately represent the Yogyakarta Cosmological Axis's cultural philosophy while addressing challenges posed by mass-produced souvenirs lacking depth. Through field observations, interviews with artisans and experts, and document analysis, researchers identified modular design as a flexible tool for preserving cultural narratives and preventing misrepresentation. The findings underscore the potential of narrative-based souvenirs to serve as both educational tools and agents of sustainable destination branding.

From cultural heritage to sustainable energy: Africa as a laboratory for the future. The case of Gorée Island in Senegal

Island of Gorée — 2025 — WHE3667DE7655

Gorée Island, Senegal, demonstrates how integrating UNESCO World Heritage Sites with sustainable energy transitions can yield measurable benefits for human, animal, and environmental health. By replacing diesel generators with grid-connected electricity in 2018, the island achieved reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved air quality, and economic development. This case highlights a scalable model that aligns heritage preservation with renewable energy innovation, such as Senegal's Taiba N'Diaye Wind Farm, while reinforcing social resilience through cultural dimensions. The study positions Gorée as a replicable example for other African and Mediterranean coastal sites, linking local practices to continental strategies like the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and global frameworks from UNESCO and the IEA.

From drought to deluge: the complex impacts of climate change on earthen heritage

Tchogha Zanbil — 2025 — WHE1C3A8B6CBF

Climate change poses severe and multifaceted threats to earthen heritage sites, including erosion, structural deterioration, and cultural value loss. A systematic study of four vulnerable regions—Sistan, Yazd, Persepolis, and Tchogha Zanbil—reveals that shifting precipitation patterns, extreme weather events, rising temperatures, and water scarcity exacerbate these risks. Socioeconomic factors like limited conservation resources further compound vulnerabilities. The research introduces an interdisciplinary framework to assess vulnerability, integrating physical, social, and cultural dimensions, and emphasizes the need for adaptive strategies, effective governance, and community engagement to mitigate impacts. This approach offers a novel method for evaluating climate change risks in earthen heritage, providing actionable insights for preservation efforts.

From Ejido to Ciudad Universitaria: Expropriation and Citizenship in Postrevolutionary Mexico

Central University City Campus of the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) — 2025 — WHE69B7A0A516

A significant displacement of ejidatarios and their struggle for legal compensation during the expropriation of four ejidos for the construction of Ciudad Universitaria, UNAM's campus, revealed that the process not only resulted in physical relocation but also stripped these communities of their recently expanded citizenship rights within Mexico's corporatist system. The study, which analyzed written appeals from displaced individuals alongside archival documents, demonstrates how these ejidatarios persisted in asserting their postrevolutionary citizenship and agrarian ideals despite the state's shift toward urbanization and modernization in mid-20th century Mexico.

From geology to site decision: Potential for underground heat storage in Graz

City of Graz – Historic Centre and Schloss Eggenberg — 2025 — WHE15AA6BED6E

A promising solution for long-term thermal energy storage, cavern thermal energy storage (CTES), has been identified as feasible for Graz, Austria. This study highlights the potential of CTES systems to store excess heat from industrial processes, thereby contributing to CO2 emission reduction. Geological analyses pinpointed solid rock formations, particularly carbonates and crystalline rocks in the western and north-western areas of Graz, as suitable storage sites. Among these, the Karolinensteinbruch site was recommended due to its favorable geological conditions despite challenges such as distance to district heating networks and risks associated with karst phenomena. The conceptual designs proposed modular and expandable geometries to adapt to Graz's fluctuating urban energy demand. While the study confirms CTES as a viable option for Graz, it emphasizes the need for further detailed investigations into geotechnical and geological properties to ensure successful implementation.

From Heritage to Commerce: Utilizing Space Syntax to Optimize Visibility for Retail interior design in Al-Turaif’s Touristic Landscape

At-Turaif District in ad-Dir'iyah — 2025 — WHE3CD69EBE87

Enhancing spatial visibility in heritage tourism settings can significantly boost cultural authenticity, visitor engagement, and commercial performance without compromising traditional aesthetics. This study demonstrates that strategic integration of Najdi interior design concepts into Culture Concept Stores—guided by Space Syntax theory (isovist analysis, axial mapping, and Visibility Graph Analysis)—optimizes retail functionality while preserving the architectural identity of Al-Turaif district in Saudi Arabia. The research reveals a direct correlation between improved visibility and visitor demand, offering a practical framework for urban designers and heritage managers to balance cultural preservation with economic viability. By analyzing macro-level visitor patterns and micro-level interior connectivity, the study provides actionable insights for sustainable tourism development.

From Heritage to Market: Leveraging Differentiation and Capabilities to Export Hue’s Handicrafts to Europe

Complex of Hué Monuments — 2025 — WHE8121186B9D

A significant breakthrough in the export of Hue's traditional handicrafts, such as royal needlework and conical caps, has been achieved by leveraging differentiation strategies, marketing capabilities, and institutional support. This study reveals that these factors collectively explain 63.5% of the variance in export performance to Europe, with institutional considerations playing a foundational role before marketing and differentiation efforts. The research employs a survey of 445 craftspeople, exporters, and marketers in Thừa Thiên-Huế, analyzed using PLS-SEM and Smart PLS 4.0, demonstrating that trained labor and raw materials significantly contribute to local export success. These findings provide actionable insights for governments, industry associations, and cultural entrepreneurs to strengthen Hue's position in the European market.

From Masada to Sarikamis: Trauma and Defeat Turns Into Heroic Resistance and Ontological Security

Masada — 2025 — WHED4711918DC

Right-wing populist elites in Turkey and Israel leverage historical traumas—such as the Battle of Masada (73 CE) and the Battle of Sarikamis (1914–1915)—to construct national-religious narratives that foster ontological security. Despite differing socio-political contexts, these cases demonstrate how defeat is reframed as 'heroic resistance,' strengthening nationalist identity. The study analyzes speeches to propose a socio-psychological framework explaining this process, showing how trauma becomes a tool for collective memory and political mobilization.

From Rome to Seville, Then to Lima, and Back to Seville

Cathedral, Alcázar and Archivo de Indias in Seville — 2025 — WHEB3C0A3A76A

A new interpretation emerges from the analysis of a 1603 agreement between sculptor Juan Martínez Montañés and Mateo Vázquez de Leca, revealing critical insights into the materiality, mobility, and circulation of artistic models during the early modern period. The study highlights how the desire to create a 'better' crucifix in Seville, modeled after one in Lima, reflects broader trends in artistic diffusion and the criteria for quality. By examining the qualities of both works and their historical context, the research sheds light on the complex dynamics of art production, mobility, and reception across the Iberian world.

From snared to swimming: Some observations on the rescue, treatment, release and monitoring of an injured Sri Lankan leopard ( Panthera pardus kotiya )

Central Highlands of Sri Lanka — 2025 — WHE6461A796E0

A rescued and translocated Sri Lankan leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya), the island's apex predator, demonstrated remarkable navigational behavior by swimming across open water to return to its original range within three weeks of release. This was the first GPS radio-collared translocated leopard in Sri Lanka, providing novel insights into post-release movement patterns and the effectiveness of translocation as a conservation strategy. The study involved surgical treatment, rehabilitation, and monitoring over four months before release in a protected area, followed by tracking to assess its survival and behavior. Findings suggest that translocation may not be an optimal solution for snared leopards unless absolutely necessary, given their strong homing instincts.

From the Apulia Foreland to the Bradanic Trough: a one-day geological field trip "jumping" from Cretaceous to Pleistocene in the Murge area (Puglia, southern Italy)

Castel del Monte — 2025 — WHE815BE53B96

A one-day geological field trip in the Murge area of Puglia, southern Italy, reveals the dynamic interplay between tectonics and sedimentation across a temporal span from the Cretaceous to Pleistocene. The study highlights the stratigraphic architecture of peritidal facies associations in the Upper Cretaceous section at Cava Pontrelli, one of the world's largest dinosaur footprint sites, followed by an analysis of shallow-marine carbonate deposits influenced by syn-sedimentary tectonics during the Pliocene-Pleistocene. A key finding is the identification of a Gilbert-type delta facies association in the Calcarenite di Gravina Formation, formed at the base of an ancient fault plane that marks the structural transition between the Apulia foreland and the Bradanic Trough foredeep. The trip also illustrates the historical use of local stones in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Castel del Monte, underscoring its geological significance.

From the Evolution of the “Flying Apsaras” Art in the Mogao Caves, the Influence of Taoism on Dunhuang Culture Observe

Mogao Caves — 2025 — WHEA2665DE6B4

Research on the Mogao Caves' murals reveals that Taoist influences have significantly shaped Dunhuang's cultural and artistic evolution, particularly in the depiction of 'Flying Apsaras.' By analyzing changes in these figures across different periods, the study demonstrates how Taoism enriched Dunhuang's art and culture, suggesting deeper exploration of Taoist elements in future heritage studies. The findings highlight the profound impact of Taoism on the region's artistic style and cultural connotations.