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War, Genocide, and Justice: Cambodian American Memory Work by Cathy J. Schlund-Vials (review)

Cambodian Memorial Sites: From centres of repression to places of peace and reflection — 2014 — WHEB297878768

Cathy J. Schlund-Vials's War, Genocide, and Justice: Cambodian American Memory Work challenges dominant narratives of the Khmer Rouge era by highlighting the 'Cambodian Syndrome,' where amnesiac politics and humanitarian rhetoric obscure justice for genocide victims. The study critiques state-driven memorialization—such as Cambodia’s Tuol Sleng prison and Choeung Ek killing fields—as tools of Vietnamese political narrative, favoring perpetrator representation over victim reparations. It also examines U.S. cultural depictions (e.g., The Killing Fields) for their Cold War apologetics, which prioritize American absolution over Cambodian perspectives. Schlund-Vials proposes 'Cambodian American memory work' as an alternative, centering survivor voices—like Socheata Poeuv’s New Year Baby—to chart the dual legacies of U.S. imperialism and Khmer Rouge authoritarianism. The book advances transnational American Studies by exposing the limits of humanitarian discourse in post-genocide justice.

Was Hiroshima reconstructed and developed as Peace City or Peace Memorial City?:

Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome) — 2014 — WHE06C81C7D2A

Hiroshima's post-war reconstruction and development were driven by competing visions of becoming either a 'Peace City' or a 'Peace Memorial City.' While early planning emphasized peace city concepts, the financial crisis of the era led to the prioritization of peace memorial functions, as formalized in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial City Construction Law. Despite this, Hiroshima has since evolved into a more significant symbol than initially intended, blending urban development with enduring peace advocacy.

Water Environment Evolution along the China Grand Canal

The Grand Canal — 2014 — WHE9BB8532258

A comprehensive analysis of the water environment evolution along the China Grand Canal, spanning 3000 years, reveals significant spatial and temporal changes. This study integrates historical literature with modern remote sensing data (ETM, SPOT images) and GPS measurements to map shifts in river systems, canal structures, and water quality. Key findings highlight the canal's role as a critical logistical channel, supporting over 300 million tons of freight annually, while also serving as a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage status and part of the South-to-North Water Diversion project. The research underscores the canal's enduring significance in ecological civilization and cultural revival, offering high-value insights for heritage preservation and sustainable development.

Water management at the Alhambra: A late medieval study

Alhambra, Generalife and Albayzín, Granada — 2014 — WHE74867FB86E

A late medieval study of the Alhambra, Generalife, and Albayzín reveals that water management was central to the Nasrid Kingdom's power and prosperity. The research demonstrates how the dynasty, founded in 1238 CE, strategically controlled water supply to support an expanding palace-city, fulfilling essential needs such as hygiene, religious observance, and agricultural cultivation. Water symbolized authority and luxury, evident through numerous baths, fountains, gardens, and reflecting pools, all designed to thrive in an arid environment. The study highlights the dual significance of water—practical and symbolic—providing insight into its role in sustaining both the royal precincts and the surrounding medina, as well as the broader agricultural lands of Granada. Methodologically, the research integrates historical analysis with environmental context to unravel the complexities of Nasrid water management.

Weaving the Second Skin: Protection Against Evil Among the Valongo Slaves in Nineteenth-century Rio de Janeiro

Valongo Wharf Archaeological Site — 2014 — WHE77F437E001

Archaeological evidence from the Valongo Wharf in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, reveals that enslaved Africans used protective artifacts—combined with scarifications and tattoos—to create a 'second skin.' This material culture, rich in iconography, served as both resistance against oppression and a strategy for negotiating less disadvantageous positions in their harsh lives. The study highlights the slaves' beliefs, coping mechanisms, and social dimensions through discarded or hidden objects, offering insight into their despair and hopes during the 19th century.

Western Anatolia before Troy. Proto-Urbanisation in the 4th Millenium BC? : Proceedings of the International Symposium held at the Kunsthistorisces Museum Wien Vienna, Austria, 21-24 November, 2012

Archaeological Site of Troy — 2014 — WHE7B187262CB

Recent archaeological research in western Anatolia has revealed significant socio-cultural developments during the 4th millennium BC, challenging previous assumptions about the region's pre-Troyan history. The symposium 'Western Anatolia before Troy' brought together experts to discuss new data, highlighting a potential phase of proto-urbanization that had been overlooked in prior studies. This period, often neglected due to limited archaeological evidence, is now recognized as crucial for understanding the emergence of complex societies in the region. The findings, supported by the ERC research group 'Prehistoric Anatolia,' underscore the need for further investigation into this understudied era, providing new insights into the cultural and economic dynamics that preceded the legendary city of Troy.

Westminster Abbey and the Academy of Ancient Music: A Library once Lost and now Partially Recovered

Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey including Saint Margaret’s Church — 2014 — WHE65152FC9E7

A significant discovery of previously unnoticed musical manuscripts and prints, once part of the Academy of Ancient Music's library (founded 1726), has been made within the collections of Westminster Abbey. The collection includes rare works by notable composers such as Bassani, Bononcini, Lotti, and Pergolesi, alongside lesser-known pieces by Francesco Negri and Fortunato Chelleri. Among these are an autograph Crucifixus setting by Antonio Lotti (likely composed for the Academy in 1731) and a previously unknown stile antico Credo attributed to Chelleri. This research identifies manuscripts and prints connected to the Academy, shedding light on their historical significance and dispersion after the society's dissolution in 1802. The study employs meticulous archival analysis to trace the provenance of these works, revealing their enduring cultural importance.

Whales from Space: Counting Southern Right Whales by Satellite

Península Valdés — 2014 — WHE1754317B9E

Researchers successfully demonstrated the use of very high-resolution satellite imagery to identify and count southern right whales, marking the first such study. Using WorldView2 satellite data with 50 cm resolution and a water-penetrating coastal band, they analyzed an 113 km² area in Golfo Nuevo, Península Valdés, Argentina, identifying 55 probable whales, 23 possible whales, and 13 additional objects detected only by the coastal band. A simple thresholding technique of panchromatic and coastal band data proved most effective for automated detection. This method offers a pragmatic, transferable approach with significant implications for future cetacean population surveys, particularly for species like southern right whales, whose fragmented populations remain vulnerable despite recovery from near extinction due to historical hunting.

When does higher spatial resolution rainfall information improve streamflow simulation? An evaluation using 3620 flood events

The Causses and the Cévennes, Mediterranean agro-pastoral Cultural Landscape — 2014 — WHE88737E4391

Higher-resolution rainfall data significantly improves streamflow simulation accuracy in regions with spatially variable precipitation, such as southern France's Cévennes and Mediterranean areas. A study using 3620 flood events across 181 French catchments found that semidistributed hydrological models outperformed lumped models when rainfall variability was high. In contrast, both model types performed equally well in western France, where precipitation is more uniform. The research utilized a 1 km, hourly resolution rainfall reanalysis and evaluated streamflow dynamics using split-sample tests, highlighting the importance of spatial rainfall representation for accurate hydrological modeling.

Where the Tourist’s Gaze Fades: Performing Landscape and the Sacred in Meteora

Meteora — 2014 — WHE77AC785A4D

Landscapes play a pivotal role in shaping transcendent experiences during pilgrimage, with Meteora's Orthodox monasteries evoking profound awe and spiritual immanence across diverse Christian traditions. This study reveals that landscapes, when engaged holistically, can spiritualize geography, fostering transcendent moments for believers and non-believers alike. Researchers analyzed three case studies—Meteora, Subiaco, and the Manx keeills—to explore how landscape informs pilgrimage practices, heritage, and faith. While material cultures like icons and frescoes dominate Meteora and Subiaco, the keeills' ruins and Celtic crosses equally resonate with participants, underscoring the significance of tangible aesthetics in spiritual experiences. The findings suggest that landscapes lacking affective-spiritual impact often result from an exclusive focus on inner spirituality, excluding external engagement.

Whole-Genome Sequences of Five Oligotrophic Bacteria Isolated from Deep within Lechuguilla Cave, New Mexico

Carlsbad Caverns National Park — 2014 — WHE0D12B46CFE

Researchers have uncovered the whole-genome sequences of five oligotrophic bacteria isolated from deep within Lechuguilla Cave, part of Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico. A notable discovery was that three of these bacterial genomes contain an ortholog of the acyl-homoserine lactone signal synthase (luxI) gene, which plays a crucial role in cell-to-cell communication through quorum sensing. This finding sheds light on the genetic adaptations and communication mechanisms of bacteria thriving in extreme, nutrient-poor environments like caves. The study employed whole-genome sequencing and annotation to elucidate these bacterial genomes, providing insights into their potential ecological roles and evolutionary strategies in such challenging habitats.

Why fish? Using entry-strategies to inform governance of the small-scale sector: A case-study in the Bijagós Archipelago (West Africa)

Coastal and Marine Ecosystems of the Bijagós Archipelago – Omatí Minhô — 2014 — WHE17F43F114D

Small-scale fishing in the Bijagós Archipelago (Guinea-Bissau) serves as a critical safety-net for rural livelihoods, fostering diverse institutions and social opportunities rather than merely limiting marine resource extraction. This study challenges traditional governance approaches that prioritize effort reduction over livelihood support by analyzing employment pathways within the sector. Findings underscore the importance of considering small-scale fisheries in developing countries through a broader socio-economic lens, emphasizing their role beyond resource conservation.

Wiederaufbau der Warschauer Altstadt nach dem zweiten Weltkrieg : im Spannungsfeld zwischen denkmalpflegerischen Prinzipien, politischer Indienstnahme und gesellschaftlichen Erwartungen

Historic Centre of Warsaw — 2014 — WHE2ABFC9E2E0

The reconstruction of Warsaw's Old Town, initiated after its near-total destruction by the Nazis during World War II, stands as a testament to Poland's unique approach to historic preservation under communist rule. Contrary to widespread criticism that dismissed the project for deviating from traditional conservation principles, this dissertation argues that the reconstruction was shaped by a complex interplay of denkmalpflegerische (historic preservation) ideals, political pressures, and societal expectations. While the process incorporated socialist elements, it also aimed to restore historical authenticity, reflecting the challenges of rebuilding during a politically constrained era. The study acknowledges the significant contributions of Polish conservationists, who navigated these tensions to create a structure that, though controversial, represents a distinct cultural achievement under difficult circumstances.

Wild Fruits Traditionally Gathered by the Malinke Ethnic Group in the Edge of Niokolo Koba Park (Senegal)

Niokolo-Koba National Park — 2014 — WHE4BF5671755

A study of Niokolo-Koba National Park, Senegal, identified 45 wild fruit species critical to the Malinke ethnic group's food security during lean agricultural periods. These fruits, belonging to 28 botanical families, are most abundant between the end of the hot dry season and mid-rainy season—when crops are depleted but not yet replenished. The research, conducted through semi-structured interviews in Tomboronkoto village, revealed that over half of these species are trees, with Saba senegalensis, Adansonia digitata, Parkia biglobosa, Tamarindus indica, and Vitellaria paradoxa being the most versatile in use (fresh or cooked). The findings highlight the ecological and cultural importance of wild fruits in mitigating food insecurity, particularly during seasonal shortages.

Wilderness and the Media Politics of Place Branding

Tasmanian Wilderness — 2014 — WHE742E52313E

Place branding in Tasmania has depoliticized the term 'wilderness,' shifting mediated conflict from environmental protection to tourism. The study found that while the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area was initially valorized by environmental movements, its branding has routinized the concept of wilderness, reducing its political significance. Using content analysis and qualitative methods, researchers analyzed local media coverage and international travel journalism over time, revealing that branding efforts may inadvertently valorize 'wilderness' transnationally—an outcome the environmental movement could not achieve alone.

William Hazledine (1763–1840): pioneering iron founder

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal — 2014 — WHE293858B427

Recent research sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions of William Hazledine (1763–1840), a pioneering iron founder whose expertise in cast and wrought iron played a pivotal role in some of the UK's most iconic engineering achievements. Collaborating with Thomas Telford, Hazledine was instrumental in the construction of landmark structures such as the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Chirk Aqueduct, and the first all-iron-framed multi-storey building, the Flax Mill at Ditherington. His meticulous approach to metal production and rigorous proof testing ensured the durability and quality of these heritage structures, setting a benchmark that remains relevant for modern engineers working on cast- and wrought-iron heritage sites. This study highlights Hazledine's significant but underappreciated role in shaping the landscape of 19th-century engineering.

Willingness to pay for biodiesel fuel for tourist boats in Halong Bay, Vietnam

Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago — 2014 — WHEB2F2C990C6

Tourist boat operators and visitors in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam, are willing to pay significantly more for biodiesel fuel compared to fossil fuels to reduce oil pollution. Government officials showed the least willingness, offering around 0.95 USD per day or 13,333 VND (0.063 USD) monthly, while tourist companies and foreign visitors were willing to pay approximately 113 USD and 138.3 USD monthly, respectively. Vietnamese visitors offered about 92.4 USD monthly. The study used the contingent valuation method to assess economic preferences for biodiesel adoption, aiming to address high oil pollution levels in Ha Long Bay, where surface waters and sediments exceed Vietnamese standards by up to eighteen times due to rapid tourism growth.

Wind Field Analysis for a Tulou (Earthen Building) in Fujian, China — “A Case Study of Eryi Lou”

Fujian Tulou — 2014 — WHE4E69038596

A study on the Eryi Lou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Fujian's largest round tulou (earthen buildings), reveals that its traditional architecture excels in natural ventilation. Using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, researchers analyzed the wind field around this structure, considering incompressible isothermal turbulent airflow to assess its ventilation performance. The findings highlight the superior efficiency of the round earthen building's design in facilitating natural air movement, offering insights that could inform future ecological architecture. This research underscores the ingenuity and adaptability of vernacular dwellings in mountainous regions.

Wine, wineries & internet: How new media are used by producers of Langhe and Roero

Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont: Langhe-Roero and Monferrato — 2014 — WHEFD2E27B6EF

A significant shift in consumer-producer communication within the UNESCO-listed Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont (Langhe-Roero and Monferrato) has been driven by the adoption of new media, particularly social networks. This study reveals that producers in these regions leverage digital platforms to establish immediate, cost-efficient connections with targeted, product-interested consumers, thereby optimizing resource allocation. By analyzing the online presence of numerous companies in Langhe and Roero, researchers assessed the effectiveness and perceived importance of network-driven contacts, also drawing comparisons with the Cuneo region. The findings underscore how technological advancements are reshaping traditional business models in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering insights into the evolving dynamics of wine production and marketing.

Winter Climate Limits Subantarctic Low Forest Growth and Establishment

New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands — 2014 — WHEA2E8AAA59C

Winter climate plays a crucial role in limiting the growth and establishment of subantarctic low forest on Campbell Island, despite overall warming trends. Research reveals that while warmer winters (mean temperatures >7 °C) enhance seedling survival and recruitment, they also increase metabolic stress in established plants, reducing growth rates. Conversely, drier winters (total precipitation <400 mm) further optimize establishment conditions. The study used dendroecological methods and local climate data to analyze the effects of summer and winter climatic variables on two treeline-forming species, Dracophyllum longifolium and Dracophyllum scoparium, over the latter half of the 20th century. Findings suggest that future winter warming may have complex, contrasting effects on plant growth and establishment globally.