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Maria Ângela Beirante, Ao serviço da República e do Bem Comum: os Vinte e Quatro dos Mesteres de Évora, paradigma dos Vinte e Quatro da Covilhã (1535)

Historic Centre of Évora — 2016 — WHE46780B55AB

Maria Ângela Beirante's work, 'Ao serviço da República e do Bem Comum: os Vinte e Quatro dos Mesteres de Évora, paradigma dos Vinte e Quatro da Covilhã (1535),' offers a critical analysis of the guilds in medieval urban settings, specifically focusing on Évora. This study sheds light on the socio-economic, religious, and political-institutional organization of the city's guilds, providing a paradigm for understanding similar structures elsewhere, such as in Covilhã. Beirante's approach involves a thorough historiographic review, addressing a long-neglected topic that was largely ignored during the 19th and much of the 20th centuries. Her research builds on her previous works on urban history, contributing significantly to the field by integrating multiple dimensions of historical analysis.

Marine habitats of the Lamu-Kiunga coast: an assessment of biodiversity value, threats and opportunities

Lamu Old Town — 2016 — WHE18CE4773E0

Lamu Old Town boasts remarkable marine biodiversity and cultural significance. The study reveals that the Lamu-Kiunga seascape supports diverse ecosystems, including rare coral genera (Siderastrea, Horastrea, Caulastrea, Moseleya) and endemic species like Apolemichthys xanthotis angelfish, alongside six shark and nine ray species. Coral cover averages 16%, with significant variation from inshore to offshore reefs. While mangrove cover remains relatively healthy, it has declined over decades due to human activities such as clay mining for pottery and deforestation. Key threats include population growth, poverty, and land tenure issues, but proactive measures—such as marine spatial planning, local management strategies, and legislation—have shown promise in mitigating these challenges. The research underscores the potential of integrating local knowledge with science and policy to sustain both ecosystems and coastal communities.

Marine micronutrient vectors: seabirds, marine mammals and fishes egest high concentrations of bioactive metals in the subantarctic island ecosystem

New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands — 2016 — WHEBDEE6D0BAB

Seabirds, marine mammals, and fishes around the New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands act as critical vectors for bioactive metals (Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd), concentrating them in their egesta. The study found that upper trophic levels—particularly New Zealand fur seals and Hooker's sea lions—bioaccumulate potentially limiting micronutrients like Mn, Fe, Co, and Zn, with metal concentration patterns more closely tied to food web structure than water mass differences between the Snares and Auckland Islands. Researchers analyzed egested material from 16 species (fishes, seabirds, pinnipeds) alongside suspended particulate organic matter, macroalgae, and zooplankton using isotopic (δ¹⁵N, δ¹³C) and multivariate profiling to assess trophic positions and metal distributions. This highlights the role of biological vectors in nutrient cycling within subantarctic island ecosystems.

Marine-mollusc fossils (Mollusca: Bivalvia and Gastropoda) and their paleoenvironmental interpretation from the Situs manusia purba Sangiran area

Sangiran Early Man Site — 2016 — WHE265587533D

Paleoenvironmental analysis of marine-mollusc fossils from the Sangiran Early Man Site reveals that during the Lower Pleistocene, parts of the region were submerged under shallow seas and estuaries. The study identified 12 bivalve families (6 orders) and 14 gastropod families (4 orders), all indicative of intertidal zone habitats. This finding aligns with geological evidence suggesting a coastal environment in the area during this period, providing insights into the paleoecology of Sangiran's prehistoric landscape. The research, conducted by the Laboratory of Bioanthropology and Paleoanthropology at UGM, analyzed 64 mollusc samples from four stratigraphic formations (Kalibeng, Pucangan, Kabuh, and Notopuro), contributing to our understanding of Pleistocene biodiversity in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Market segmentation and their potential economic impacts in an ecotourism destination

Shiretoko — 2016 — WHEEC70157C68

A study on the Shiretoko Peninsula, Japan, identifies four distinct clusters of ecotourism visitors based on their motivations, information search behaviors, and activities. These clusters vary significantly in their ecological awareness and economic impact, highlighting the need to balance sustainability with economic viability. The research employs a model-based latent class analysis to segment the heterogeneous tourist market, providing actionable insights for management strategies that can maximize benefits for the local economy while preserving ecological integrity.

Marmo e scultura a Leptis Magna: un’analisi alla luce di nuovi dati archeometrici

Archaeological Site of Leptis Magna — 2016 — WHE388E23E5DA

A groundbreaking archaeometric analysis of 36 marble statues from Leptis Magna reveals that the majority (34%) are crafted from Luna marble, challenging previous assumptions about material sourcing in North African sculpture. This study combines provenance data with stylistic and chronological observations to trace the origins, workshops, and production contexts of these artefacts. By integrating heterogeneous datasets—spanning typology, usage, and chronology—the research offers a comprehensive understanding of Leptis Magna's sculptural heritage, bridging gaps between material science and archaeological context.

Matrix population models indicate that bark harvest of two medicinal plants in Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is sustainable

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park — 2016 — WHE3527150403

A study on bark harvesting in Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park reveals that current harvest levels of two medicinal plants, Rytigynia kigeziensis and Ocotea usambarensis, are biologically sustainable. Using matrix population models and long-term data, researchers found that only a small fraction (4% for R. kigeziensis and 3% for O. usambarensis) of stems showed signs of bark harvest, mostly mild. The model predicted stable or moderately growing populations, with growth rates primarily influenced by survival probabilities. Observed population structures aligned well with the model's predictions, suggesting that estimated vital rates (growth, recruitment, and survival) accurately reflect real-world conditions. While recent harvest levels appear sustainable, ongoing monitoring through tagging, marking, and remeasuring individuals is recommended for both species to ensure long-term stability.

Matteo Ricci on China via Samuel Purchas: Faithful Re-Presentation

Cathedral, Alcázar and Archivo de Indias in Seville — 2016 — WHE750C8B3D87

Research reveals previously undocumented experiences of early Chinese migrants in 16th-century Spain, offering rare insights into their transoceanic journeys and integration. Archival records from the Archivo General de Indias in Seville provide evidence of three individuals' travels, conditions upon arrival, and prevailing European perceptions of East Asia. The study highlights the Asian Diaspora's role in shaping cultural exchanges between Europe and Asia during this period, challenging traditional narratives that focus primarily on European travelers.

Measurement of background gamma radiation in the northern Marshall Islands

Bikini Atoll Nuclear Test Site — 2016 — WHEB2F4D8AF25

Gamma radiation levels on Bikini Island, part of the UNESCO-listed Bikini Atoll Nuclear Test Site, significantly exceed the agreed safety threshold for human habitation set by the U.S. and Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) governments (100 mrem/year or 1 mSv/year). Measurements on six northern Marshall Islands revealed mean radiation levels ranging from 7.6 mrem/year on Enewetak to 184 mrem/year on Bikini, with Rongelap showing elevated but sub-threshold levels (19.8 mrem/year). The study, conducted using gamma radiation detectors and interpolated mapping, highlights hot spots and compares findings to control sites like Majuro and New York City's Central Park. While external radiation on most islands is below the threshold, internal exposure via food ingestion remains a critical consideration for assessing resettlement safety.

Measurement of Visual Privacy in the Royal Palaces focusing on the Prospect and Refuge - A case of Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung -

Changdeokgung Palace Complex — 2016 — WHEC855F07CA6

Korean traditional architecture, particularly in royal palaces like Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, achieves visual privacy through a strategic balance of openness and closure in courtyard gardens. This study quantifies such privacy using the concept of 'prospect and refuge,' a design strategy linked to psychological wellbeing. By applying space syntax analysis and image processing with Adobe Photoshop CS6, researchers measured spatial configurations, connectivity, depth, control value, integration, and area ratios of prospect and refuge. The findings suggest that these mathematical properties can partially quantify visual privacy, offering insights into how traditional Korean architecture enhances human comfort while resolving conflicts with others in high-density urban environments.

Measures and planning for wetland restoration of Xianghe Segment of China’s Grand Canal

The Grand Canal — 2016 — WHE058899167D

A dual-core wetland ecosystem pattern is proposed for the Xianghe Segment of China’s Grand Canal (XSCGC) to restore degraded wetlands and enhance their ecosystem services. This approach, grounded in landsenses ecology, involves designing two key wetlands—upstream and downstream—and setting reconstruction goals to improve water quality, vegetation, habitat, and river channel structure. Field investigations identified ecological problems such as wetland deterioration, which threaten the Grand Canal’s stability and ecosystem health. The proposed measures aim to recover lost functions like water purification and biodiversity maintenance while ensuring sustainable management through reserve establishment.

Measuring a Visitor’s Authenticity at an UNESCO World Heritage Site

Historic Villages of Korea: Hahoe and Yangdong — 2016 — WHE4D06C489B5

A study conducted at Andong Hahoe Folk Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in South Korea, identified key factors that influence visitors' intention to revisit the site. The research found that authenticity, a critical aspect of world heritage tourism, is multidimensional and can be divided into objective and existential dimensions. Objective authenticity was linked to 'uniqueness' (tour output) and 'realistic perception' (tour outcome), while existential authenticity encompassed 'assimilation' and 'self-discovery'. Multiple regression analysis revealed that 'realistic perception' and 'self-discovery' had the greatest impact on revisit intention. The study provides a validated scale for measuring authenticity and offers practical insights for visitor management at world heritage destinations.

Medical Survey of the Staff Working in Škocjan Caves

Škocjan Caves — 2016 — WHE7F7DC65BD1

A five-year study at Škocjan Caves, Slovenia, reveals that prolonged exposure to radon radiation and other microclimatic factors—such as temperature, humidity, and air flow—can induce physiological changes in cave workers. The research, conducted by the Institute for Occupational Safety, Ljubljana, combines continuous radon monitoring with precise tracking of staff time spent underground, enabling accurate estimation of annual radiation doses. To mitigate health risks, the study implements regular medical surveys, including blood tests, as mandated by national regulations. These measures aim to prevent potential health issues while providing insights into the broader impacts of cave microclimates on human physiology.

Medicina tradicional en la comunidad de San Basilio de Palenque

Pre-Hispanic City and National Park of Palenque — 2016 — WHE43DDF984CA

A comprehensive ethnobotanical study of San Basilio de Palenque, Mexico, reveals 135 medicinal plants used by the community between 2009 and 2014, with 57 species identified across 58 botanical families. The research highlights a unique interplay between African and American medicinal traditions, linking plant lifecycle, temperature classification (cold-hot), territory, and human health. This study underscores how traditional knowledge integrates ecological cycles with therapeutic practices, influencing dosage and treatment efficacy. The findings were derived from consensus interviews with local informants, providing insights into the cultural and biological significance of medicinal plants in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Medicinal and Food Plants of Svaneti and Lechkhumi, Sakartvelo (Republic of Georgia), Caucasus

Western Caucasus — 2016 — WHEFCB4988141

A comprehensive documentation of traditional plant use in Svaneti and Racha-Lechkumi, Georgia, reveals 203 species utilized for medicinal and food purposes. The study found that while plant diversity slightly varied across communities, the variation in their uses was more pronounced. Contrary to hypotheses, elevation did not significantly influence plant use knowledge or home garden practices, which were consistent across high and low-altitude settings. Fieldwork involving 63 participants in 17 communities identified species primarily collected from the wild (99), grown in home gardens (73), or both (35). Environmental fit analysis showed that community differences explained much of the variation in reported plants but not their uses, with gender playing no significant role.

Medieval Jerusalem

Old City of Jerusalem and its Walls — 2016 — WHE2E7C4050DA

Medieval Jerusalem challenges the notion that the city was merely a revered religious site, suggesting instead it may have served as an administrative center of the early Islamic world. The study examines Muslim historiography and religious lore alongside Jewish traditions to demonstrate how Islam positioned itself as the dominant monotheistic religion, superseding Judaism and Christianity. By analyzing literary sources and archaeological discoveries, such as those along the south wall of the Temple Mount, Lassner applies a rigorous method akin to legal interrogation to interpret both historical texts and material culture. This work corrects popular narratives about Jerusalem's past, offering new insights into its political and religious significance during the medieval period.

Medieval Towns, Traffic and Urban Planning Half a Century since the First Pedestrian Zone in Siena, Italy

Historic Centre of Siena — 2016 — WHE686BC58031

A groundbreaking urban planning solution implemented in Siena, Italy, in 1965 demonstrated the feasibility and benefits of pedestrian zones in historic medieval towns. This initiative, the first of its kind, successfully addressed traffic congestion without resorting to the construction of urban motorways or the demolition of ancient buildings, which would have irreparably damaged several historic centres. The approach set a precedent for other towns, preventing further urban decay and preserving the architectural integrity of medieval townscapes. The study highlights the long-term impact of proactive traffic management in safeguarding cultural heritage.

Medusamide A, a Panamanian Cyanobacterial Depsipeptide with Multiple β-Amino Acids

Coiba National Park and its Special Zone of Marine Protection — 2016 — WHE971EA65A0D

Researchers have discovered medusamide A, a novel cyclic depsipeptide from marine cyanobacteria collected in Coiba National Park, Panama. This compound is notable for containing four contiguous β-amino acid residues, specifically (2R,3R)-3-amino-2-methylhexanoic acid (Amha), marking the first report of multiple Amha residues within a single cyclic peptide-type natural product. The stereochemical assignment of these residues was achieved through synthesis of reference standards and derivatization with Marfey's reagent, followed by LC-MS analysis.

Mejora del rendimiento térmico de los edificios históricos "difíciles de tratar" en el centro de Edimburgo = Improving The Thermal Performance of "Hard-to-Treat" Historic Buildings in Edinburgh’s New Town.

Old and New Towns of Edinburgh — 2016 — WHE2905DE3BC1

A collaborative project successfully demonstrated that energy-efficient upgrades can significantly reduce heat loss in historic 'hard-to-treat' buildings without compromising their architectural character. The study, involving five Category B Listed residential tenement properties in Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage site, tested various measures such as bio-polymer-based profiles and traditional methods like wall and window retrofits. These interventions met strict conservation requirements while addressing thermal discomfort and high fuel consumption reported by social-rented sector tenants. Notably, the project won the Carbon Trust’s Low Carbon Building Awards in 2012, highlighting its potential for replication across similar properties in Scotland. The research also explored sustainable alternatives to traditional materials, such as bio-polymer profiles reinforced with natural fibers, which were adapted using existing pultrusion techniques.

Memory, Commemoration & Identity in an Ancient City: The Case of Aphrodisias

Aphrodisias — 2016 — WHED77AA3B506

Aphrodisias, an ancient Greek city in Asia Minor, offers a unique lens to study the evolution of memory and identity from the late second century BCE to the seventh century CE. The research reveals how civic, social, and religious identities were dynamically expressed through inscriptions, images, and name changes, reflecting responses to historical shifts such as Roman contact, competition with other cities, and the rise of Christianity. Memory played a pivotal role in shaping collective identity, particularly through war narratives and foundation legends, while elite benefactors and intellectuals influenced its transmission. In late antiquity, religious symbols and acclamations became central to expressing competing identities amid growing religious conflicts. The study leverages extensive epigraphic and visual sources to trace these processes, highlighting the adaptive nature of identity in response to changing contexts.