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Hope in Hebron: The Political Affects of Activism in a Strangled City

Hebron/Al-Khalil Old Town — 2016 — WHE3CE446F537

Palestinian activists in Hebron's Old Town harness fear and other negative affects of occupation to foster political agency, demonstrating resistance through reappropriation of violent sensorium. The study reveals that by engaging with the corporeality of occupation, activism can overcome 'political depression' and cultivate critical hope, offering an empirical account of the 'autonomy of affect.' This approach addresses a key question in resistance movements: how fear can be transformed into renewed political action against oppression.

Hopewell Ceremonial Landscapes of Ohio: More than Mounds and Geometric Earthworks

Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks — 2016 — WHED45B3927D0

Hopewell Ceremonial Landscapes of Ohio: More than Mounds and Geometric Earthworks challenges conventional views of the Hopewell culture by revealing its complexity beyond earthworks. The study demonstrates that these landscapes were multifunctional, serving as ceremonial, social, and possibly astronomical centers. Lynott's research integrates archaeological data with spatial analysis to reconstruct the cultural significance of these sites, emphasizing their role in ritual practices and cosmic symbolism. This approach shifts the focus from mere structural analysis to a holistic understanding of Hopewell societies, highlighting their advanced organizational and symbolic capabilities.

Hospitaller patronage and the mural cycle of the Church of the Resurrection at Abu-Ghosh (Emmaus) – a new reading GIL FISHHOF (TEL AVIV UNIVERSITY)

Crac des Chevaliers and Qal’at Salah El-Din — 2016 — WHE498F2BE365

A distinctive 'art of the Hospitaller Order' remains elusive, despite analysis of surviving Crusader-era artworks. Research into the mural cycle at Abu-Ghosh (Emmaus) and comparisons with frescos from Crac des Chevaliers and Marqab castles reveal no conclusive iconographic pattern unique to Hospitaller patronage. While some scenes, like the beheading of Saint John the Baptist, align with Hospitaller themes, others—such as depictions of hellish tortures or blessed souls—do not. This study challenges the notion of a coherent visual identity for the Order, highlighting the complexity and diversity of Crusader-era art.

Houses of the Holy: Architecture and Meaning in the Structure of Stonehenge, Wiltshire, UK

Stonehenge, Avebury and Associated Sites — 2016 — WHEFA41FE8479

Stonehenge's central structures, including the Sarsen Trilithons and bluestones, served multiple symbolic purposes over time. Initially, they represented a 'big house' or sacred dwelling with a square-in-circle motif during the early third millennium BC. Later, rearrangements formed an oval setting, possibly embodying a lunar month time-reckoning system. The addition of over 80 bluestones from west Wales, each reflecting diverse lithologies, created a microcosm of distant landscapes, reinforcing Stonehenge's significance for water and healing associations. This study re-evaluates the monument's construction sequence to uncover its evolving symbolic meanings.

How attractive can Cultural Landscapes be for Generation Y?

Fertö / Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape — 2016 — WHE05C3E6E8F7

A quantitative survey reveals that cultural landscapes, including the UNESCO World Heritage sites Fertö / Neusiedlersee and Tokaj Wine Region, can significantly enhance their appeal to Generation Y by adopting innovative technological solutions. This generation, characterized as 'Internet aboriginals,' prioritizes authenticity, edutainment, and interactive experiences during travel. The study highlights that traditional awareness-raising methods fall short in engaging this demographic, which demands seamless integration of mobile applications, location-based services, and online platforms. Recommendations focus on developing robust online and mobile presences, leveraging the latest digital tools to create dynamic interpretation experiences that align with Generation Y's preferences for technology-driven engagement.

How marine currents influenced the widespread natural overseas dispersal of reptiles in the Western Indian Ocean region

Aldabra Atoll — 2016 — WHEFFE01E0D2C

Natural overseas dispersal, not human translocation, was the primary driver for the widespread colonization of terrestrial reptiles, including giant tortoises, across the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) region. A review of recent literature reveals that nearly 90% of successful reptile colonization events align with prevailing marine surface currents, which can facilitate long-distance dispersal despite geological and evolutionary time scales. The study also highlights the role of eddies and counter-currents in enabling transport against main current directions. By analyzing extant and extinct WIO giant tortoise lineages, researchers demonstrate that their current distribution patterns are consistent with natural dispersal mechanisms, challenging earlier hypotheses involving human intervention.

Human impact on Holocene sediment dynamics in the Eastern Mediterranean – the example of the Roman harbour of Ephesus

Ephesus — 2016 — WHE15BC9FB44C

A multi-proxy analysis of the Roman harbour and canal at Ephesus (western Turkey) reveals that human activities, particularly deforestation, agriculture, and grazing, significantly accelerated soil erosion and sedimentation over the last three millennia. Starting in the 8th century BCE, but intensifying during the Hellenistic/Roman period (2nd/1st centuries BCE to 6th/7th centuries CE), these processes led to rapid alluviation and delta progradation of the Küçük Menderes River, causing severe siltation of the harbour basin. This sediment trap also records heightened heavy metal contamination (lead and copper) and traces of fruit tree pollen and intestinal parasites, reflecting increased human impact during Ephesus' peak prosperity. After the 1st millennium CE, declining influence reduced this effect, mirroring trends observed in other ancient Mediterranean settlements where human activity overwhelmed climatic influences during their most flourishing periods.

Human Smart Landscape: An Adaptive and Synergistic Approach for the “National Park of Cilento, Vallo di Diano and Alburni”

Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park with the Archeological Sites of Paestum and Velia, and the Certosa di Padula — 2016 — WHEA326BBC6C3

A novel 'Human Smart Landscape' framework emerges, redefining landscape management by integrating smart dimensions (economy, mobility, environment, people, living, governance) into a synergistic system. This approach transcends traditional physical-geometrical territory models, emphasizing cultural values and adaptive strategies within dynamic landscapes. Applied to the Cilento, Vallo di Diano, and Alburni National Park (Italy), the framework evaluates and valorizes complex landscape values through a multidimensional methodology. It bridges economic development with cultural preservation, offering a blueprint for sustainable heritage management in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Hydrodynamic modelling and characterisation of a shallow fluvial lake: a study on the Superior Lake of Mantua

Mantua and Sabbioneta — 2016 — WHEB155566B1D

A numerical modeling framework reveals that the Superior Lake of Mantua, a shallow fluvial lake in Northern Italy, experiences significant water stagnation due to low winds, reduced summer discharges, and extensive lotus flower meadows. The model estimates circulation modes, water residence times, and surface wave parameters under ordinary, storm, and drought conditions, highlighting the hydrodynamic influence of a newly-opened secondary outlet. It also assesses how wind stress, canopy flow resistance, and wave-current interactions shape lake dynamics, offering insights into potential biochemical impacts.

Hydrogeology of the sinking zone of the Korana River downstream of the Plitvice Lakes, Croatia

Plitvice Lakes National Park — 2016 — WHE388C0B5C6E

Research reveals that the Korana River's sinking zone downstream of Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia, harbors a transboundary aquifer with potential for sustainable water supply relocation. During dry periods, groundwater levels drop approximately 25 meters below the riverbed, indicating an active aquifer capable of supporting additional research for water management solutions. Tracing tests confirmed a connection to the Klokot spring in Bosnia and Herzegovina's Una River catchment, underscoring the aquifer's transboundary nature. The study suggests that capturing around 60 liters per second (l/s) from this zone would not significantly impact the Klokot spring's discharge, which ranges from 3 m³/s to over 75 m³/s. This finding opens avenues for relocating water supply sources while maintaining ecological balance.

Hydrological Modelling of Water Level near "Hahoe Village" Based on Multi-Layer Perceptron

Historic Villages of Korea: Hahoe and Yangdong — 2016 — WHEA65F4558C6

A multi-layer perceptron (MLP) hydrological model was successfully developed to predict water levels near Hahoe Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site adjacent to the Nakdong River. The model, trained using error back-propagation algorithm with water level and rainfall data from 2012–2013, demonstrated effective prediction performance when tested on untrained 2014 data. This approach provides a robust tool for monitoring flood risks in culturally significant areas, enhancing disaster preparedness strategies.

Hydrothermal contributions to global biogeochemical cycles: Insights from the Macquarie Island ophiolite

Macquarie Island — 2016 — WHEB7324B3EDD

Hydrothermal alteration of the Macquarie Island ophiolite reveals significant chemical exchanges between ocean crust and seawater, with net fluxes indicating that elements like Si, Ti, Al, and Ca are transferred to the oceans, while H₂O, Mg, Na, K, and S are sequestered in the crust. This study leverages the unique sub-aerial exposure of a complete oceanic crust section to quantify these processes, demonstrating that elemental uptake by veins plays a crucial role for elements like Si, Fe, Mg, and S. The findings suggest that hydrothermal activity could balance riverine inputs of Mg to the oceans, though relationships between spreading rates and chemical exchange fluxes remain poorly understood.

Hypotheses about geoglyphs at Nasca, Peru: new discoveries

Lines and Geoglyphs of Nasca and Palpa — 2016 — WHE50FFF77D31

A new hypothesis proposes that the Nasca and Palpa geoglyphs served as organized work areas for rope and net production, supported by experimental, archaeological, and ethnographical evidence. The study, led by J. Sonnek, builds on previous theories while introducing technical devices—'rope twisters'—that replicate ancient ropemaking tools, demonstrating their functionality through practical testing. Radiocarbon dating of wooden remnants from the region suggests a connection to ropemaking activities spanning from Early Nasca to the 17th century. Additionally, linguistic analysis links the Quechua word huasca (meaning rope or cord) to 'Nasca,' reinforcing the hypothesis. This innovative approach integrates technical experimentation with archaeological and ethnographic data, offering a novel perspective on the purpose of these enigmatic geoglyphs.

Ichthyofauna in the Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park from Vietnam

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and Hin Nam No National Park — 2016 — WHED1B38B934C

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its tectonic limestone structures and extensive cave systems, harbors a unique ichthyofauna. Despite the total estimated length of 80 km of caves and underground rivers, only 20 km have been explored by joint Vietnamese-English teams, revealing 17 km in Phong Nha and 3 km in Ke Bang. The park's distinctive karst geology facilitates widespread underground water flow, with small streams converging into larger channels like the Rao Thuong, eventually forming major tributaries of the Gianh River. This study highlights the region's complex hydrological network and its significance for rare flora and fauna listed in both Vietnam's Red Book and the World Red Book.

Iconografia e storiografia nel paesaggio archeologico di Paestum. Riflessi sul cantiere di restauro tra il XVIII e il XIX secolo

Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park with the Archeological Sites of Paestum and Velia, and the Certosa di Padula — 2016 — WHE675FC1D8DA

A critical analysis of iconographic and historiographic representations of Paestum, a significant Magno-Greek foundation, reveals how these interpretations influenced restoration practices between the 18th and 19th centuries. The study compares multiple testimonies from this period to assess their impact on the perceived value and significance of the ancient site's stratifications. Unlike Pompeii or Herculaneum, Paestum was rediscovered conceptually rather than materially, yet it became a focal point for artistic and scholarly depictions starting in the mid-18th century. This research demonstrates that these representations shaped restoration methodologies, highlighting the interplay between cultural narratives and conservation practices.

Identification and biodegradation characteristics of oil-degrading bacteria from subtropical Iriomote Island, Japan, and tropical Con Dao Island, Vietnam

Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island — 2016 — WHE706F7BB43D

Oil-degrading bacteria (ODB) from subtropical Iriomote Island, Japan, and tropical Con Dao Island, Vietnam, exhibit distinct biodegradation capabilities. The study found that isolates from Iriomote demonstrated higher degradation rates for crude oil, n-alkanes, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) compared to those from Con Dao. Notably, Pseudomonas putida and Ochrobactrum anthropi from Iriomote degraded over 40% of oil and n-alkanes and more than 25% of PAHs. While total bacterial counts were similar in sediment samples, seawater samples from Iriomote had significantly fewer ODB than those from Con Dao. The research isolated 45 bacteria across 18 genera, highlighting regional differences in microbial adaptation to potential oil contamination in these subtropical and tropical environments.

Identification Of Cochineal And Other Dyes In Byzantine Textiles Of The 14Th Century From Mount Athos

Mount Athos — 2016 — WHEE976FD012F

A groundbreaking analysis of 14th-century Byzantine textiles from Mount Athos reveals the first documented use of cochineal dye, likely derived from Porphyrophora polonica insects. This discovery, achieved through a novel two-step extraction method using hot dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) followed by mild acid hydrolysis, highlights the sophistication of Byzantine textile dyeing techniques. The study also confirms the presence of weld, indigoid dyes (including indigo and woad), kermes, and tannins, demonstrating that glycoside components can be preserved under less harsh conditions than previously thought. This research sheds light on the historical significance of Mount Athos as a center for textile artistry and dye production.

Identification of Sources of Fine Particulate Matter in Kandy, Sri Lanka

Sacred City of Kandy — 2016 — WHEFA109B4507

Fine particulate matter (PM) in Kandy, Sri Lanka—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and major tourist destination—originates primarily from re-suspended soil, vehicular emissions, biomass burning, industrial sources, and aged sea salt. Researchers analyzed over 100 PM samples collected between 2012 and 2014 using a GENT stacked filter sampler and X-ray fluorescence spectrometry. Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) identified five key source factors, revealing significant contributions from anthropogenic activities alongside natural soil resuspension. Black carbon measurements further supported the dominance of combustion-related sources in urban PM pollution.

Identifying abrupt changes and detecting gradual trends of annual rainfall in an Indian arid region under heightened rainfall rise regime

Anjar — 2016 — WHE55E64353D7

A significant increase in annual rainfall trends has been detected in the Anjar region, an Indian arid area, with post-change point (CP) rainfall magnitudes 2–10 times higher than those observed over a 34-year period. The study identified abrupt CPs using multiple statistical tests, revealing that mean annual rainfall increased by 14–80% after CP, accompanied by a reduction in variability. Trend analysis showed statistically significant increases at four stations, with the Mann-Kendall test indicating strengthening trends over time. These findings suggest that heightened rainfall trends may further intensify, providing critical data for policymakers to address future challenges.

Identifying the Ozone Weekend Effect in the air quality of the northern Andean region of Ecuador

City of Quito — 2016 — WHEECC80FFB21

Researchers identified the Ozone Weekend Effect (WE) in Quito, Ecuador, where ozone (O₃) levels peak on weekends while emissions of its precursors (NOₓ and VOCs) decline. Analyzing hourly air quality data from 2005 to 2012 at two urban stations—Centro (historic center) and Belisario (center-north)—the study found that Sunday O₃ concentrations were significantly higher, by 19.7–31.1% in Belisario and 11.7–18.4% in Centro, compared to weekdays. This suggests Quito operates under VOC-limited conditions for photochemical O₃ production, a critical insight for air quality management in the northern Andean region.