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The Gardens' bulletin Singapore.. Vol. 66(2).

Singapore Botanic Gardens — 2014 — WHE4AF91AE452

During the period leading up to the Japanese attack on Malaya, the Singapore Botanic Gardens experienced significant disruptions due to the secondment of senior staff for duties under the Departments of Food Control and Information. This shift resulted in a marked reduction in botanical work, highlighting the vulnerability of scientific institutions during periods of political instability. The bulletin provides historical insight into how external pressures can impact long-term research efforts, particularly in botanical studies.

The genus Milnesium (Tardigrada: Eutardigrada: Milnesiidae) in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina and Tennessee, USA), with the description of Milnesium bohleberi sp. nov.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park — 2014 — WHE34B5F389C9

A new species of tardigrade, Milnesium bohleberi, has been discovered in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP), adding to the growing diversity of the genus Milnesium. This finding challenges the long-held assumption that the genus consisted of a single cosmopolitan species, Milnesium tardigradum. The discovery was part of the All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory (ATBI) and utilized recent taxonomic revisions to identify and describe Milnesium bohleberi, which differs from its closest relative, M. eurystomum, by shorter claws and a distinct buccal tube structure. Additionally, the study confirmed the presence of another rare species, Milnesium granulatum, previously known only from Chile, Italy, and Romania. The research highlights the importance of re-evaluating specimens using updated taxonomic characters to uncover hidden biodiversity.

The Geometry of Bourges Cathedral

Bourges Cathedral — 2014 — WHEF0C983CD46

A groundbreaking geometrical analysis of Bourges Cathedral reveals that its original designer employed a tightly interlocking, five-fold subdivision in the chevet ground plan. This design, vertically extruded into the elevation, exhibits striking coherence, fitting both within squares and progressively smaller equilateral triangles. The study, leveraging high-precision laser survey data and computer-aided design (CAD) techniques, provides new evidence for the geometrical unity of Gothic cathedral architecture and advances the debate on 'ad quadratum' and 'ad triangulum' geometries. This methodology also underscores the potential of CAD-based analysis in studying precisely surveyed medieval buildings.

The Ghosts of the Temple of Preah Vihear/Phra Viharn in the 2013 Judgment

Temple of Preah Vihear — 2014 — WHE81BF785D15

A re-examination of the International Court of Justice's (ICJ) 2013 Decision on the Temple of Preah Vihear reveals that it stands in stark contrast to its controversial 1962 predecessor. Unlike the unanimous 2013 ruling, which affirmed Cambodia's sovereignty over the temple, the 1962 Judgment was marred by evidential weaknesses—reliance on an inaccurate sketch map and a single photograph of a meeting between deceased Thai and French officials to deduce Thai acquiescence. This analysis underscores how the ICJ's 2013 Decision consciously reinforced a judgment that, upon closer inspection, lacked robust evidence, thereby addressing historical controversies surrounding the temple's territorial dispute.

The Glarus Double Fold: a serious scientific advance in mid nineteenth century Alpine Geology

Swiss Tectonic Arena Sardona — 2014 — WHE0D85CBBF13

The Glarus Double Fold, once dismissed as a flawed tectonic model, is re-evaluated here as a significant scientific advance in mid-19th century Alpine geology. This study challenges the traditional view that Arnold Escher and Albert Heim's recumbent fold concept hindered progress by demonstrating its role as an early application of global contraction theory to the Alps. By contextualizing Swiss Alpine geology between 1800 and 1850, the research shows how the Double Fold model marked a paradigm shift from earlier vertical uplift theories—rooted in metamorphic processes—to large-scale horizontal displacements. This reinterpretation positions the Double Fold as a precursor to the nappe tectonic revolution, highlighting its importance in shaping modern understanding of Alpine orogeny.

The Glocalization Process of Shin Buddhism in Brasilia

Brasilia — 2014 — WHEDB8C766C90

Shin Buddhism in Brasília undergoes a glocalization process, blending external cultural influences with local practices to create unique religious expressions. This study highlights how clergy-driven innovation, particularly the integration of meditation, adapts Shin Buddhist practices to meet local demands for self-cultivation. The research combines historical and sociological analysis to examine the temple’s contemporary role in Brasília, demonstrating how cultural interaction fosters novel religious forms.

The Grand Thaw: Our Vanishing Cryosphere

Kilimanjaro National Park — 2014 — WHE8DEBA7A8E5

Global glaciers, including those on the Tibetan Plateau, Himalayas, and African mountains such as Kilimanjaro, are experiencing rapid ice loss due to accelerated melting and reduced snowfall. Since the 1950s, these trends have intensified, with projections indicating complete glacial disappearance in regions like Uganda by 2050 and Mount Kenya's glaciers already at just 20% of their former extent. Kilimanjaro’s iconic ice cap is similarly projected to vanish by mid-century. The study highlights the broader impacts of this cryosphere decline, including river drying and extreme weather events, such as the 2003 European heatwave and 2005 floods in Switzerland, underscoring the urgent need for climate action.

The Heavens (Chapter 4)

Jesuit Missions of the Guaranis: San Ignacio Mini, Santa Ana, Nuestra Señora de Loreto and Santa Maria Mayor (Argentina), Ruins of Sao Miguel das Missoes (Brazil) — 2014 — WHEFECB2602BE

Jesuit astronomer Buenaventura Suarez, stationed at the Guarani missions of San Ignacio Mini and Loreto during the early 18th century, demonstrated exceptional skill in surveying and astronomical instrumentation. His expertise was recognized when he was tasked with resolving a land dispute between the missions in 1722. Suarez's proficiency extended to crafting his own astronomical tools, as highlighted in his book Lunario de un siglo. The study contrasts Suarez's work with that of another Jesuit missionary, Mascardi, providing insight into the advanced astronomical practices employed by Jesuits in South America during this period.

The Her.cul.es International Summer Seminar

Assisi, the Basilica of San Francesco and Other Franciscan Sites — 2014 — WHE857F404F52

Participants of the Assisi Summer Seminar 'Tourism Management at World Heritage Site' provided insights into effective methodologies and assigned tasks for managing tourism at UNESCO World Heritage Sites, specifically focusing on Assisi's Basilica of San Francesco and other Franciscan sites. The seminar, held in July 2013, aimed to explore practical approaches to sustainable tourism management while preserving cultural heritage. By adopting a participatory perspective, the report offers valuable lessons for balancing visitor experience with site conservation, particularly relevant for World Heritage Sites facing increasing tourism pressures.

The hidden paintings of Angkor Wat

Angkor — 2014 — WHECC8A6B4C9A

A groundbreaking discovery at Angkor Wat reveals hidden paintings, including depictions of boats, animals, deities, and buildings, previously undetectable to the naked eye. These images were uncovered using advanced digital photography techniques combined with decorrelation stretch analysis, a method successfully applied in rock art studies. The findings suggest that these paintings date back to the 16th century AD, coinciding with a significant phase in the temple's history when it transitioned from Hindu Vishnavaite use to Theravada Buddhism. This research not only sheds new light on Angkor Wat's artistic and cultural evolution but also demonstrates the potential of cutting-edge imaging technology in uncovering hidden historical narratives.

The Impact of an Active Real Estate Markets in Desgnated UNESCO World Heritage Towns, the Case of Old Lamu Town in Kenya

Lamu Old Town — 2014 — WHED413F02B6F

Property prices in Lamu Old Town, Kenya, have nearly tripled due to speculation surrounding the LAPSSET corridor project, despite its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and protected national monument. This rapid price surge threatens local landowners while raising concerns about balancing heritage conservation with economic development. The study analyzed real estate market changes post-LAPSSET announcement through field surveys, revealing that speculative demand has outpaced local livelihood considerations. Recommendations emphasize integrating community welfare into both conservation strategies and urban planning to prevent displacement and preserve Lamu's cultural integrity.

The impact of crop raiding by wild animals in communities surrounding the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Serengeti National Park — 2014 — WHEC5DD56AC20

Crop raiding by wild animals, particularly baboons and elephants, causes significant economic losses for households near the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania. The severity of crop damage varies with proximity to the park, with elephants being more destructive closer to its borders. The study used questionnaires to analyze the types of crops damaged, their growth stages when affected, and estimated household losses. Recommendations include further research on yield gaps due to raiding and the adoption of multiple mitigation strategies by local communities to protect crops effectively.

The importance of water bodies and structures in the persian garden architecture

The Persian Garden — 2014 — WHEFD1F54FC0B

Persian garden architecture, rooted in Iran's arid climate and cultural reverence for water, showcases a sophisticated integration of water bodies and structures that reflects both practical necessity and symbolic depth. This study highlights how Persian gardens, designed to evoke paradise, utilize water as a central element despite the region's severe water scarcity—often experiencing six to seven months without rainfall. The research emphasizes the spiritual significance of water in these gardens, which are not only places for relaxation but also sites of religious ceremonies, such as annual prayers for rain. Persian garden design has evolved into one of the four main global styles, demonstrating its enduring influence and adaptability.

The Influence of Building Materials on Architectural Design: Dalmatian Stone at the Cathedrals in Korčula and Šibenik

The Cathedral of St James in Šibenik — 2014 — WHEE754103BAA

Dalmatian stone played a pivotal role in shaping the architectural forms, structural systems, and technical solutions of 15th- and 16th-century cathedrals in Korčula and Šibenik, marking significant contributions to European art. The study highlights the intricate vaulting system of Šibenik Cathedral, which surpasses the simplicity of Split's Temple of Jupiter, and the similar dome structures of the Korcula campanile and Šibenik Cathedral, both employing a combination of stone ribs and thin slabs. George of Sibenik's wealth, derived partly from trading Dalmatian stone, underscored its importance in his architectural endeavors. The research approach involves analyzing material usage and its impact on design, providing insights into the technical innovations of the period.

The Influence of Hannes Meyer and the Bauhaus Brigade on 1930s Soviet Architecture

Kremlin and Red Square, Moscow — 2014 — WHE7204B6D70C

A study reveals that Hannes Meyer's concept of 'psychological effects' significantly influenced 1930s Soviet architecture, particularly in designs aimed at enhancing mass demonstrations. Analyzing Meyer's Greater Moscow development plan and the Bauhaus Brigade's Palace of the Soviets proposal, researchers found direct parallels with socialist realist architecture, such as the People's Commissariat of Heavy Industry. These designs incorporated skyscrapers in widened Red Square and flexible spaces with greenery to psychologically engage the Soviet population in constructing a new society. The study suggests that Meyer's early work in Weimar Germany elevated functionalism through psychological effects, which strongly shaped monumental Soviet architecture during this period.

The influence of raw material qualities in the lithic technology of Gran Dolina (Units TD6 and TD10) and Galería (Sierra de Atapuerca, Burgos, Spain): A view from experimental archeology

Archaeological Site of Atapuerca — 2014 — WHE9AB3228638

A comprehensive analysis of lithic technology from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Atapuerca reveals that raw material qualities significantly influenced knapping techniques during the Lower and Middle Pleistocene. By combining technological analysis with experimental archaeology, researchers demonstrated how specific properties of stone tools—such as texture and fracture behavior—shaped the development of gestures, methods, and techniques over a span of 1.2 million years. The study highlights the adaptability of early hominins in response to material constraints, providing new insights into the evolution of lithic technology at a local scale.

The Influence of Soil Moisture, Temperature and Oxygen on the Oxic Decay of Organic Archaeological Deposits

Bryggen — 2014 — WHE93726CB487

A one-pool decomposition model successfully linked laboratory measurements of oxic decay to on-site monitoring data at Bryggen, revealing how soil moisture, temperature, and oxygen concentrations influence the degradation of organic archaeological deposits. The study demonstrates that this approach can predict current in situ decay patterns, identifying critical conditions under which decay occurs most rapidly. Future research should prioritize long-term incubation experiments and studies conducted at zero or very low oxygen levels to enhance the accuracy of these predictive models.

The International Court of Justice in Asia: Interpreting the Temple of Preah Vihear Case

Temple of Preah Vihear — 2014 — WHE74CC876CF3

A 2013 International Court of Justice (ICJ) decision on the Temple of Preah Vihear case between Cambodia and Thailand reveals that Asian states prefer bilateral dispute resolution, particularly for smaller conflicts involving indivisible assets like temples or islands. This preference underscores a modest but significant role for judicial institutions in Asia, where only eight states have accepted the ICJ's compulsory jurisdiction, and nine have appeared before it. The narrowness of the decision highlights both the limited scope of judicial intervention in regional disputes and the potential for the ICJ to mediate intractable issues that cannot be resolved through bilateral means.

The invention of al-Andalus: discovering the past and creating the present in Granada's Islamic tourism sites

Alhambra, Generalife and Albayzín, Granada — 2014 — WHE5E9696C971

Granada's tourism industry reveals Spain's complex relationship with its Islamic past, marked by both historical nostalgia and contemporary tensions. A 2008 survey highlighted widespread negative perceptions of Muslims among Spaniards, yet Granada thrives as a tourist destination promoting the myth of 'convivencia'—a harmonious coexistence of Christians, Muslims, and Jews in medieval Iberia. This study uncovers three key 'inventions' of al-Andalus: the 19th-century Romantic rediscovery of its Oriental allure, the modern marketing efforts by the Legado Andalusí Foundation (influenced by nationalism and colonial discourse), and debates over Islam and Moroccan immigration in the Albayzín neighborhood. The research demonstrates how tourism both preserves and reinterprets Granada's Islamic heritage, reflecting broader societal contradictions.

The invisible archaeologist: Letters from the UNESCO Secretariat 1946–1947

Paris, Banks of the Seine — 2014 — WHE33458C52E0

A unique glimpse into the foundational work of UNESCO reveals its post-war origins as a nexus of pre-war cosmopolitan networks and colonial structures, challenging the notion of an officially neutral Secretariat. Through 81 original letters penned by Olov R. T. Janse—a Swedish archaeologist with diverse international experience—researchers uncover the human realities shaping UNESCO's establishment in post-war Paris. These letters, rich in detail, document Janse's six-month tenure (November 1946–May 1947) and his connections to global intellectual and colonial systems, situating UNESCO's foundation between nostalgia for pre-war eras and aspirations for a peaceful future.