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Urban Planning, Colonialism, and the Pro-Jerusalem Society

Old City of Jerusalem and its Walls — 2016 — WHECFE3B9A9B6

British colonial rule in Mandate Palestine (1917–1948) left a lasting imprint on Jerusalem's urban development and historical narrative. This study reveals how British policies, shaped by both European romanticization of the 'holy city' and modern nationalist contestations, constructed Jerusalem’s municipal borders and strategic agenda. By analyzing colonial imaginations alongside contemporary realities, the research sheds light on the historical formation of a modern city under colonial influence, with implications for its present-day significance.

Urban sustainability in Old City Centres, a Comparison Between the City of Najaf in Iraq and Italian Cities Experiences

Historic Centre of Florence — 2016 — WHE84FC67D754

Urban sustainability in historic city centers can be effectively achieved by integrating global best practices and local experiences, as demonstrated by comparing Najaf, Iraq, with Italian cities like Florence. The study highlights that Najaf's current urban conditions lag behind its cultural significance, despite its rarity and sanctity. By analyzing Italian cities' sustainable development strategies—such as those in Florence, Venice, and Bologna—the research identifies key planning dimensions for functional, structural, spatial, and cultural sustainability. Fieldwork in Najaf revealed critical gaps in infrastructure, demographics, economics, and environmental aspects, leading to a diagnostic framework of strengths and weaknesses. The paper proposes actionable restructuring plans for Najaf, drawing from Italian models to foster harmony between development and heritage preservation.

Urban transformations of historic areas: A case study of Nezir-Aga mosque complex, the Old Town of Mostar

Old Bridge Area of the Old City of Mostar — 2016 — WHE5513275EFA

Urban transformations in historic areas can successfully balance preservation and modernization, enhancing living conditions while maintaining cultural identity. A case study of the Nezir-Aga mosque complex in Mostar's Old Town demonstrates that systematic analysis of past changes—rooted in physical heritage and its underlying processes—provides a methodological framework for inclusive urban design. This approach resolves tensions between tradition and contemporary life, offering practical guidelines to inform future interventions in historic urban landscapes.

Urban vulnerability and adaptation to heatwaves: a case study of Graz (Austria)

City of Graz – Historic Centre and Schloss Eggenberg — 2016 — WHE94E8F0BF65

A medium-sized Central European city, Graz, exhibits significant vulnerability to heatwaves due to factors such as temperature, green space distribution, building construction periods, demographic and socioeconomic risks, adaptation strategies, and risk perception among decision-makers. While some vulnerable districts are identified and adaptation measures, particularly inter-organizational collaboration, have been effective, a key barrier remains the lack of efficient communication between researchers, policymakers, and the public. The study underscores the need for stronger climate change adaptation networks, more targeted information dissemination—especially for emergency organizations—and increased public awareness through media campaigns and workshops. This case study provides a replicable framework for assessing urban heatwave vulnerability in other cities.

Urbanization and human health in urban India: institutional analysis of water-borne diseases in Ahmedabad

Historic City of Ahmadabad — 2016 — WHE58BB7C9C82

Rapid urbanization, coupled with ageing infrastructure and governance inefficiencies, exacerbates the spread of water-borne diseases in Ahmedabad, India. The study identifies a vicious cycle driven by institutional factors, social actors exploiting systemic weaknesses, and political dynamics that perpetuate disease exposure. Using path dependency and rational choice perspectives, it analyzes data from 327 households across two wards through surveys and interviews over two years, applying principal component analysis to uncover underlying inefficiencies. Breaking this cycle requires addressing the political underpinnings of urban health disparities.

Use of Lightweight Lime Mortar in the Construction of the West Church of Umm el-Jimal, Jordan: Radiocarbon Dating and Characterization

Umm Al-Jimāl — 2016 — WHE3612BE4372

Radiocarbon dating of the West Church at Umm el-Jimal, Jordan, reveals its construction dates to the Late Roman–Early Byzantine periods (5th–6th centuries CE), contradicting earlier archaeological estimates. The study also identifies the use of lightweight lime mortar in the church's dome, characterized by hydraulic properties and scoria sourced from the nearby Quais volcanic cone. Researchers analyzed mortar samples using accelerator mass spectrometry, X-ray diffraction, petrographic microscopy, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy to confirm the mineralogical and chemical composition of the scoria, supporting its local origin due to similarities in features and proximity.

Use of the Suburban Forest Areas for Outdoor Activities

Levoča, Spišský Hrad and the Associated Cultural Monuments — 2016 — WHEA956BCA5F3

A proposed network of 13 new outdoor activity routes, totaling 94.5 km, could significantly enhance tourism and sport potential in the suburban forests around Levoča, Spišský Hrad. The study analyzed existing transport accessibility (42.15 m/ha) and tourist use, identifying opportunities for hiking, biking, horse riding, roller skating, and cross-country skiing. Alongside these routes, additional service facilities—such as a recreation center, boarding accommodations, parking, and small recreational buildings—were recommended to boost the area's attractiveness and competitiveness.

Use Of Traditional Knowledge By Paddy Farming Communities Of Mahaulpatha In Polonnaruwa District In Sri Lanka

Ancient City of Polonnaruwa — 2016 — WHE5D5B39CF56

A significant decline in traditional knowledge (TK) among paddy farming communities in Mahaulpatha, Polonnaruwa District, Sri Lanka, has been documented. Despite the persistence of some practices—such as 57% of farmers still using straw manure before planting and 26% relying on rainfall patterns for cultivation—the study reveals a heavy reliance on modern chemical fertilizers (100%) post-sowing and machinery (87%) for land preparation, signaling a shift away from sustainable, eco-friendly methods. While TK, passed down through generations by observing natural phenomena, remains valuable, its erosion is evident. The research combines primary data—questionnaires, interviews, observations—and secondary data to highlight the tension between immediate productivity gains from modern inputs and long-term environmental sustainability. A localized awareness effort, integrating TK with modern techniques, was proposed as a solution.

Using Contingency Valuation Approaches to Assess Sustainable Cultural Heritage Tourism Use and Conservation of the Outstanding Universal Values (OUV) at Great Zimbabwe World Heritage Site in Zimbabwe

Great Zimbabwe National Monument — 2016 — WHE3EB3F17E16

Tourism at Great Zimbabwe World Heritage Site (GZWHS) is unsustainable, with tourism use falling short of the conservation needs required to protect its outstanding universal values (OUV). A study employing contingency valuation methods found that existing conservation strategies are inadequate and fail to address local environmental conditions effectively. This research highlights a critical imbalance between tourism benefits and conservation efforts, urging a shift in strategy to ensure sustainable heritage management.

Utilisation de deux outils hydroacoustiques pour analyser la dynamique migratoire du saumon atlantique (Salmo salar L.) dans deux fleuves de la baie du Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay — 2016 — WHEBBDA66BC87

A recent study using hydroacoustic tools reveals that the functioning of a new estuary flood-gate dam on the Couesnon River, part of the Mont-Saint-Michel Bay, does not negatively impact Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) annual recruitment levels. However, it does influence their migration dynamics, potentially decreasing abundance or disturbing migration patterns. The study employed split-beam echosounder and DIDSON acoustic camera technologies to monitor salmon migrations in both the Couesnon River, where the dam is present, and a nearby free-flowing river, the Sélune River, for comparative analysis. These non-intrusive, turbidity-independent methods provided unprecedented insights into salmon migration dynamics, highlighting the advantages of acoustic cameras while also revealing their limitations.

Utzon’s Use of Light to Influence the Audience’s Perception of the Sydney Opera House

Sydney Opera House — 2016 — WHE06CDE90193

Architect Jørn Utzon's innovative use of both natural and artificial lighting at the Sydney Opera House significantly influences audience perception, reinforcing the building's architectural form while enhancing the theatrical experience. The study reveals that exterior and interior lighting serve as an extension of stage lighting, shaping the audience's interpretation of the performance spaces—ranging from 400 to 2,500 seats—and contributing to the overall narrative of productions, from ballet to opera. This approach bridges architectural design with theatrical storytelling, creating a cohesive experience that aligns with Utzon's vision for the building as both an icon and a dynamic performance environment.

Values and Conservation of Honghe Hani Rice Terraces System as a GIAHS Site

Cultural Landscape of Honghe Hani Rice Terraces — 2016 — WHEFF3129D7E0

The Honghe Hani Rice Terraces System (HHRTS), a 1300-year-old traditional agricultural system, demonstrates significant economic, ecological, aesthetic, cultural, and research values. Designated as both a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) in 2010 and a World Heritage Site in 2013, the HHRTS highlights unique features such as distinctive rice varieties, ecologically clean production systems, and sustainable water and soil management practices. While traditional farming methods face challenges like low efficiency and single-industry dependency, these constraints create ideal conditions for green agriculture, organic farming, and ecological food production due to the pristine farmland environment. The study proposes that protecting this system requires multi-faceted economic compensation strategies, including ecotourism development and policy coordination among governments, corporations, and local communities.

Valuing cultural world heritage sites: an application of the travel cost method to Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay — 2016 — WHE8DB528C5E9

A substantial economic value is attributed to recreational trips to Mont-Saint-Michel (MSM), France's most visited coastal UNESCO World Heritage Site, with consumer surplus estimates revealing significant benefits. The study highlights that ignoring multi-purpose/destination trips biases these valuations, while accounting for the opportunity cost of time does not significantly alter results. A random parameters Poisson model (RPPM) provides deeper insights into demand factors compared to a standard Poisson model (SPM), though both yield statistically similar consumer surplus estimates. This research applies the zonal travel cost method (ZTCM) to quantify recreational value, offering critical insights for heritage site management and economic valuation.

Valuing World Heritage Cities

Old Rauma — 2016 — WHEB36DEAEA89

Heritage value is not intrinsic but constructed through discursive processes, as demonstrated by the first in-depth historical analysis of World Heritage site valuation in urban contexts. Using Old Rauma, Finland, as a case study, the research examines how ICOMOS's universal standards interact with local perspectives, revealing tensions between global heritage narratives and localized interpretations. The study critically assesses ICOMOS's role in determining 'outstanding universal value' and contributes to broader debates on the discursive nature of heritage, offering insights for scholars in Heritage Studies, Cultural Geography, Urban Studies, and Tourism.

Valutazione e mappatura dei servizi culturali nei paesaggi terrazzati. Il caso studio della Costiera Amalfitana

Costiera Amalfitana — 2016 — WHE34628B5E18

A study on the UNESCO-listed terrazzato landscapes of the Amalfi Coast reveals that these 'living evolving cultural landscapes' are at risk due to changing socio-economic conditions, threatening their sustainability. The research identifies and maps cultural ecosystem services (ESS) using a multi-criteria valuation approach combined with spatial analysis via GIS, integrating local community input through semi-structured questionnaires and collaborative mapping tools like Volunteered Geographic Information (VGI). This method allows for the visualization of complex human-landscape relationships, providing actionable insights for conservation efforts. The findings underscore the importance of balancing development with heritage preservation while engaging local stakeholders in sustainable management strategies.

Variabilité Structurale Des Peuplements D’arbres En Forêt De Montagne Du Parc National De Kahuzi-Biega Et Ses Environs, RD. Congo

Kahuzi-Biega National Park — 2016 — WHE0B464A31DF

A comprehensive analysis of tree populations in Kahuzi-Biega National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo, reveals that the structural dynamics of mountain forests vary significantly with altitude. The study, which surveyed 16,797 trees across 30 hectares, found that while basal area remains relatively stable at around 35 m²/ha regardless of elevation, tree diameter and height decrease progressively with altitude. Dominant tree families include Meliaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Moraceae, Fabaceae, and Rubiaceae, with Strombosia scheffleri and Xymalos monospora standing out due to their basal area, abundance, and frequency across different altitude horizons. The research also highlights the need for localized height-diameter (H/D) models due to variations in tree growth patterns along altitudinal gradients.

Variability of Anthropogenic Gases: Nitrogen Oxides, Sulfur Dioxide, Ozone and Ammonia in Kathmandu Valley, Nepal

Kathmandu Valley — 2016 — WHE2552188638

Ground-level ozone (O₃) poses significant air quality concerns in the Kathmandu Valley, frequently exceeding health guidelines. A 2013 study revealed higher O₃ concentrations in rural areas (108.5 ± 31.4 μg m⁻³) compared to urban sites (87.1 ± 9.2 μg m⁻³), highlighting the role of meteorology and precursor gases in its formation. Urban regions also exhibited elevated nitrogen dioxide (NO₂, 22.4 ± 8.1 μg m⁻³) and sulfur dioxide (SO₂, 14.5 ± 11.1 μg m⁻³) levels, with SO₂ peaking near brick factories (22.3 ± 14.7 μg m⁻³). Ammonia (NH₃) emerged as a critical pollutant near polluted rivers, while SO₂’s proximity to industrial sources underscored its role in particulate matter formation. The study employed passive sampling across 15 sites from March to May 2013, followed by targeted measurements in 2014, revealing spatial variability and the need for intensified monitoring.

Variation in body size and morphometric traits of males and females of the wall gecko,Tarentola delalandii(Phyllodactylidae) from different environments on Tenerife

San Cristóbal de La Laguna — 2016 — WHE5A36C83E11

A significant male-biased sexual dimorphism in body size and morphometric traits was confirmed in two populations of the wall gecko, Tarentola delalandii, from Tenerife's San Cristóbal de La Laguna (North) and Granadilla de Abona (South). Males exhibited larger snout-vent length (SVL), head dimensions, limb lengths, and tail measurements than females, with northern individuals generally larger than southern ones. While most size-adjusted traits were larger in males, shape-adjusted traits showed significant differences favoring females. The study employed Permutational MANCOVA to analyze morphological variables, controlling for head and trunk lengths as covariates. These findings highlight the influence of evolutionary, ontogenetic, and ecological factors on sexual dimorphism in this species.

Variation in carbon isotope values among chimpanzee foods at Ngogo, Kibale National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park — 2016 — WHEE6B12151EB

A comparative analysis of carbon isotope (δ13C) values in chimpanzee food resources from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Ngogo, Kibale National Park, Uganda, reveals significant isotopic variability driven by plant part, canopy position, and taxon. The study found that while mean δ13C values for plants are similar across both sites, ground-level resources at Ngogo exhibit markedly lower δ13C values (-30.7‰) compared to Bwindi (-28.6‰), leading to more pronounced isotopic differences between canopy and ground resources (4.2 vs. 2.2‰). These findings underscore the influence of environmental factors on isotopic signatures, cautioning against direct comparisons of primate diets across geographically or temporally separated populations without localized isotope data.

Variation in global chemical composition of PM 2.5 : emerging results from SPARTAN

Mammoth Cave National Park — 2016 — WHEF232E6DEC4

A global analysis of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) reveals significant variability in its chemical composition, with ammoniated sulfate, crustal material, and equivalent black carbon being the dominant constituents across 12 urban sites and a background site at Mammoth Cave National Park. The study, part of the Surface PARTiculate mAtter Network (SPARTAN), found that PM2.5 components varied by more than an order of magnitude between locations, with notable differences in levels of ammoniated sulfate, ammonium nitrate, and black carbon. For instance, Kanpur, India, exhibited high concentrations during the dry season, while Mammoth Cave showed minimal anthropogenic influence. The research leverages gravimetrically weighed filters and collocated nephelometer sampling to infer spatial and temporal PM2.5 variability cost-effectively, with findings validated against established networks like IMPROVE and AERONET. SPARTAN's open-access database continues to provide critical insights into global aerosol composition.