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Showing 26301 – 26320 of 30315 publications

Historicity: Preservation or Revitalization Planning Tools?

Historic Centre of Oporto, Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar — 2013 — WHECA139C7107

Historic urban centers, such as those in Oporto and Guimarães, Portugal, face significant challenges in balancing preservation with revitalization. This study reveals that current heritage policies often fall short due to their generality and abstract frameworks, failing to address the unique characteristics of each area or provide specific criteria for intervention. By comparing planning tools across these World Heritage Sites, the research highlights the limitations of existing approaches and advocates for more tailored strategies to ensure the preservation of cultural and economic dynamics while addressing the needs of modern urban spaces.

HIV/AIDS among Women in Havana, Cuba: 1986–2011

Old Havana and its Fortification System — 2013 — WHE0A363ED08D

A rising trend of HIV/AIDS among women in Havana, Cuba, from 1986 to 2011, was identified, with nearly half of cases occurring in young adults aged 20-29. The study, analyzing data from 1,274 women, revealed that HIV incidence began to increase sharply after 1998, particularly in Central Havana and Old Havana municipalities. While late presentation (7.4% of cases) and severe AIDS-defining conditions like wasting syndrome were noted, case fatality rates declined over time. This suggests a shift toward earlier diagnosis and treatment, though the increasing prevalence remains a concern for public health.

Holger Wienholz. Ein hellenistisches Kapitell in Baalbek?

Baalbek — 2013 — WHE0B9BD8CF79

A rare Hellenistic capital, discovered in Baalbek and reused in the Friday Mosque's vaults, challenges the site's historical narrative. Dated to the 1st century BC through stylistic analysis, this acanonical design sheds light on an otherwise underdocumented period preceding Rome's dominance. The finding raises questions about Baalbek's Hellenistic phase, suggesting a more complex cultural interplay than previously assumed.

Holocene footprints in Namibia: The influence of substrate on footprint variability

Namib Sand Sea — 2013 — WHE6BF04A495A

Researchers uncovered a Holocene-era footprint site in Namibia's Namib Sand Sea, revealing how substrate properties—grain size, moisture content, and sediment disturbance—significantly influence intratrail footprint variability. The study found that firm substrates produce shallow impressions reflecting peak plantar pressure, while softer ones yield deep prints with narrow heels and diminished medial longitudinal arches. Medium-bearing-capacity substrates create displacement rims, obscuring the true arch form. Using a 'whole foot' analytical technique, the team demonstrated that substrate conditions, not locomotor mechanics, primarily control footprint typology in consistent trails. This conceptual model offers critical insights for interpreting paleoanthropological sites, such as those in Ileret, Kenya, where substrate analysis could refine understanding of early human locomotion.

Honeycomb Weathering of Sandstone Outcrops at Al-Hijrv(Mada'in Salih), Saudi Arabia

Hegra Archaeological Site (al-Hijr / Madā ͐ in Ṣāliḥ) — 2013 — WHEF597500DAA

Honeycomb weathering, characterized by the formation of honeycomb-like patterns on sandstone surfaces due to salt weathering, significantly impacts the preservation of the Nabataean rock-cut tombs at Al-Hijr (Mada'in Saleh), a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Saudi Arabia. The study identifies that this phenomenon is driven by variations in the rock's properties and the repeated wetting and drying cycles, leading to the flaking of thin layers from the lower parts of the sandstone outcrops. Investigations using field observations, Optical Microscopy (OM), Polarized Microscopy (PM), Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) revealed that Al-Hijr sandstones consist of fine to large grained minerals, predominantly quartz (SiO2), halite (NaCl), ringwoodite (Mg2SO4), and kaolinite (Al2Si2O5(OH)4). These findings provide a critical diagnosis for developing effective conservation strategies to mitigate the degradation of this historically significant site.

Honorific Practices and the Politics of Space on Hellenistic Delos: Portrait Statue Monuments Along the Dromos

Delos — 2013 — WHEC1EC974ADB

The gradual accumulation of portrait statues along the dromos of Delos' Sanctuary of Apollo reveals complex political and social dynamics. By analyzing statue placement, material, and size through phase plans and a 3D model, researchers identified tensions between individual and group identities. This processual approach suggests that the increasing number of Late Hellenistic portrait statues may have driven stylistic changes in sculptural representation. A visual reconstruction aids in understanding how display context influenced artistic evolution.

How objective are protected area management effectiveness assessments? A case study from the iSimangaliso Wetland Park

iSimangaliso Wetland Park – Maputo National Park — 2013 — WHE3170FD66CC

Protected area management effectiveness assessments, designed to improve conservation practices and reporting, often yield inconsistent results due to variations in methodology. A case study of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park revealed significant discrepancies between national and provincial assessments, with scores differing based on spatial detail, management hierarchy consultation depth, time allocation, and peer review rigor. The study highlights the need for standardized operating procedures to ensure credibility and robustness in these evaluations. Recommendations include clear guidelines for participant involvement, sufficient time for peer review, and adherence to best practices to maintain an accurate representation of on-the-ground conditions.

How Predictability of Feeding Patches Affects Home Range and Foraging Habitat Selection in Avian Social Scavengers?

The Causses and the Cévennes, Mediterranean agro-pastoral Cultural Landscape — 2013 — WHEB773645DE1

Griffon vultures in the Grands Causses, France, demonstrate adaptability to both predictable and unpredictable feeding environments. Despite the availability of highly predictable feeding stations—where carcasses are concentrated or dropped by farmers—they continue to forage in open grasslands when conditions (e.g., food abundance, flight) are favorable, indicating retention of natural foraging behaviors. However, they strongly prefer feeding stations during periods of scarcity or adverse weather, suggesting these stations mitigate survival risks but may also expose vultures to hazards like poisoning. Light feeding stations, offering reduced competition and mimicking natural resource dispersion, emerge as effective conservation tools without fully replacing unpredictable foraging strategies.

How to ‘Enlighten’ museum visitors: Curating Derby Museum’s Enlightenment Exhibition

Derwent Valley Mills — 2013 — WHEC37C4BDE49

Curating museum exhibitions effectively to engage visitors with historical objects is challenging, especially when balancing the need for informative interpretation without overwhelming or boring audiences. The 'Enlightenment' exhibition at Derby Museums (2013) tackled this by displaying 18th-century objects—such as trade-related items and natural history artifacts—in a way that highlighted their significance while maintaining visitor interest. Funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, the project involved three institutions (Derby Museums, Buxton Museum, and Strutt’s North Mill) to enrich collections and contextualize Derbyshire's Enlightenment period within the UNESCO-listed Derwent Valley Mills site. The exhibition aimed to link objects like a polar bear plate to themes of trade, fashion, and natural history, demonstrating how strategic curation can bridge academic depth and public engagement.

Hunting Scenes at Cueva de las Manos : a Regional Perspective (Santa Cruz, Argentina)

Cueva de las Manos, Río Pinturas — 2013 — WHE5F68F519DA

Archaeological research at Cueva de las Manos, Río Pinturas, Santa Cruz, Argentina, has refined the understanding of rock art sequences proposed by Gradin in the 1970s. The study identifies five successive styles (A1 to A5) within hunting scenes, enabling clearer comparisons across sites and providing a more detailed stylistic framework for regional analysis. This approach enhances the interpretation of human settlement patterns and cultural evolution in the Pinturas River and Andean lakes region.

Hybrid Green Technologies for Retrofitting Heritage Buildings in North African Medinas: Combining Vernacular and High-tech Solutions for an Innovative Solar Powered Lighting System for Hammam Buildings

Medina of Fez — 2013 — WHE65D1AE22BD

A hybrid green technology prototype significantly enhances daylighting and provides up to eight hours of continuous solar-powered LED lighting for North African hammams, addressing longstanding issues of poor natural ventilation and inadequate electric lighting. Developed through a survey of 67 historic baths and tested in two Fez hammams—Seffarine (under rehabilitation) and Moulay Idriss (operational)—the system integrates vernacular daylighting with affordable high-tech solutions. Results demonstrate user-friendly, heritage-sensitive improvements that reduce energy consumption while preserving traditional social practices. This innovative approach serves as a 'green catalyst' for retrofitting the 4000 Moroccan hammams, balancing cultural sustainability with modern efficiency.

Identifying Dendroecological Growth Releases in Old-growth Cryptomeria japonica Forest on Yakushima Island, Japan

Yakushima — 2013 — WHEA1B90ACD5E

Large-scale logging activities on Yakushima Island, Japan, significantly influenced the growth and regeneration of old-growth Cryptomeria japonica forests. Tree-ring analysis revealed that 500 to 600-year-old trees experienced substantial growth releases between the mid-1700s and early 1900s, with basal area increments (BAI) remaining high for approximately 150 years post-disturbance. Regenerated trees germinated between 1791 and 1835, aligning with historical logging records starting in 1642. The study confirms that large-scale disturbances were pivotal in both promoting the growth of ancient trees and facilitating regeneration, providing critical insights into the ecological impacts of historical logging on these unique forests.

Images des Juifs à Vézelay : entre condamnation et conversion

Vézelay, Church and Hill — 2013 — WHE91D0F1FD0E

At Vézelay, the sculpted images of Jews reflect a unique duality—simultaneously condemning and offering redemption. This ambivalence, likely influenced by Pierre de Montboissier, challenges the Western Christian notion of 'Otherness' that equated non-Christians with infidels. The study reveals how the abbey’s iconography at Sainte-Marie-Madeleine presents Jews as part of a broader redeemable community, akin to pagans, if they embrace conversion. This oscillation between blame and salvation is embedded in the Romanesque stonework, illustrating the tension between communal identity (oratores, laboratores, bellatores) and individual agency in medieval society.

Impacto económico de la Semana Santa en La Antigua Guatemala

Antigua Guatemala — 2013 — WHE6AB3389FFF

Holy Week (Semana Santa) significantly boosts Antigua Guatemala's economy, generating substantial revenue through tourism and local services. A field study, building on analyses from Córdoba, Spain, quantified this impact by assessing visitor numbers, spending patterns, and economic ripple effects in the city. The research highlights Antigua's role as a cultural and religious hub during this period, with increased demand for accommodation, food, and transportation. Findings suggest that such celebrations can serve as a key driver for sustainable economic growth in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offering insights applicable to similar destinations.

Impactos Ambientais Causados pela Utilização de Trilhas na Reserva Ecológica da Joatinga, Paraty, RJ

Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity — 2013 — WHE5951FFEFD3

Tourism significantly impacts the ecological integrity of trails within Brazil's Reserva Ecológica da Joatinga. Researchers identified severe degradation, including litter accumulation, erosion, and burned areas along two popular trails: Praia do Sono - Praia de Antigos and Enseada de Ponta Negra – Praia de Galhetas. The study employed perceptual methodologies to assess trail characteristics, such as size, obstacles (degraus, roots, rocks), and degradation levels. Findings reveal that despite the site's protective status, tourism-induced damage is widespread, posing risks to biodiversity conservation efforts.

Improving the sustainable operation of a world heritage site: increasing energy efficiency and implementing a renewable energy system on Aldabra Atoll, Seychelles

Aldabra Atoll — 2013 — WHE73B1E53EE1

A hybrid photovoltaic-diesel energy system implemented at Aldabra Atoll achieved significant environmental and financial benefits. The system, combined with energy efficiency measures, reduced electricity demand by 57% and generated 38,171 kWh of solar electricity in its first year, covering 94% of the station's new demand. This transition avoided 97,523 kg CO₂ annually and slashed diesel demand by 97%, with projected operational savings of up to €68,000, resulting in a system payback period of just three years. The study demonstrates that integrating renewable energy with efficiency improvements is critical for sustainable operations at remote heritage sites.

In situ video monitoring of finfish diversity at Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia

Ningaloo Coast — 2013 — WHE01DEEFEED9

A long-term video monitoring system at Ningaloo Reef has identified 165 finfish species from 50 families, providing critical baseline data for biodiversity assessment. The Piercam project, operating since 2005, uses remotely installed underwater cameras to continuously record and archive over 10,000 hours of footage, with high visibility of fish activity. This approach enables real-time analysis by students and supports the identification of indicator species and those at risk, such as the vulnerable grey nurse shark (Carcharius taurus). The study underscores the importance of integrated, continuous monitoring for understanding and protecting marine biodiversity hotspots like Ningaloo Reef.

Including development topics in a cultural heritage management plan: Mercury heritage in Idrija

Heritage of Mercury. Almadén and Idrija — 2013 — WHEC5B6846752

A participatory process has successfully integrated mercury heritage into the development strategy of Idrija, Slovenia, demonstrating its potential as a key driver for municipal growth while preserving authenticity. The study highlights the importance of inclusive planning that engages all stakeholders and bridges sectoral divides to ensure sustainable and harmonious development. This approach, developed through collaborative efforts, sets a precedent for balancing heritage conservation with economic progress in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Indigenous ecotourism in the Mayan rainforest of Palenque: empowerment issues in sustainable development

Pre-Hispanic City and National Park of Palenque — 2013 — WHEEB4DFFEE5C

A Mayan village near the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Palenque shows significant disempowerment in indigenous ecotourism, with villagers hindered by limited knowledge, economic resources, and weak negotiation skills. The study developed a 'Wheel of Empowerment' tool to assess empowerment levels, revealing that external stakeholders—including NGOs, private sector, and government agencies—have largely failed to support local tourism initiatives. While there is community willingness to engage in ecotourism, systemic barriers prevent effective participation in managing cultural and natural resources for sustainable development.

Infaunal biodiversity patterns from Carnarvon Shelf (Ningaloo Reef), Western Australia

Ningaloo Coast — 2013 — WHE3374B1107F

A study of the Ningaloo Coast, Western Australia, reveals that infaunal assemblages—burrowing organisms crucial to ecological processes—dominate both species richness (67%) and abundance (78%) in soft-sediment habitats adjacent to Ningaloo Reef. Rare species, defined as those with two or fewer individuals recorded, constituted 42% of the total assemblage, highlighting significant biodiversity even at low population levels. The research, conducted across three areas (Mandu, Point Cloates, and Gnaraloo), found distinct infaunal communities in each location, with the southernmost area (Gnaraloo) showing the most pronounced differences. While depth and sediment composition (mud and gravel) influenced assemblage structure, these relationships were weak. The findings provide critical baseline data for assessing the effectiveness of marine protected areas, particularly in soft-sediment habitats, which are often overlooked in biodiversity assessments.