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Showing 26321 – 26340 of 30315 publications

Influence of Bud Position on Mother Stem And Soaking Duration on Sprouting of Bamboo Cuttings

Nyungwe National Park — 2013 — WHEF2905526E5

Research on bamboo propagation in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, reveals that different bamboo species exhibit varying sprouting rates and heights when using basal, middle, or apical cuttings. Bambusa vulgaris produced the highest number of sprouts (22.2) compared to Arundinaria alpina (18.1) and an unknown native bamboo (15.0), while the native bamboo also showed the greatest mean height (54.0 cm). The study, conducted in Nyaruguru District near Nyungwe National Park, found no significant impact of soaking duration on sprouting parameters, suggesting a reproducible protocol for efficient bamboo propagation. This method addresses the shortage of planting materials and leverages bamboo's potential for furniture, food, erosion control, and carbon sequestration, offering solutions to tropical deforestation challenges.

Influence of Feeding Ecology on Mercury Accumulation in Turtles and Fish of the Rideau Canal, Ontario, Canada

Rideau Canal — 2013 — WHEC0FE526B7E

A key finding from this study is that dietary reliance on the benthic food chain predicts mercury (Hg) accumulation in fish muscle but not in turtle blood, highlighting a species-specific pattern of contaminant uptake. The research analyzed Hg concentrations alongside carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios (δ13C and δ15N) in turtle blood and fish muscle samples collected from the Rideau Canal, Ontario, Canada, in 2012. These isotopic ratios were used to assess trophic levels, dietary reliance on benthic sources, and the proportion of zebra mussels in diets. While the proportion of zebra mussels did not significantly influence Hg concentrations in either species, the study underscores the importance of incorporating dietary ecology—particularly benthic reliance—in Hg modeling for fish, potentially identifying other vulnerable species.

Influence of stone quarries on groundwater quality and health in Fatehpur Sikri, India

Fatehpur Sikri — 2013 — WHECE6E08E933

Stone quarries significantly degrade groundwater quality and pose health risks in Fatehpur Sikri, India. Research reveals elevated fluoride levels (1.7–3.8 mg/l in shallow aquifers) near quarries, linked to dental and skeletal fluorosis. While deep aquifers are more saline overall, shallow ones exhibit higher concentrations of hazardous chemicals like Na+, K+, Cl−, and F−. The study, based on water samples collected in 2012–2013, demonstrates that quarrying activities directly and indirectly contaminate groundwater, exacerbating salinity and fluoride levels—especially near active quarries. This finding underscores the environmental and public health consequences of unregulated quarrying in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Influence of Water Column Chlorophyll Concentration on Bathymetric Estimations in the Lagoon of New Caledonia, Using Several MERIS Images

Lagoons of New Caledonia: Reef Diversity and Associated Ecosystems — 2013 — WHEB719E3F003

Variations in water column chlorophyll concentration significantly impact bathymetric estimations derived from multispectral satellite imagery, particularly in optically complex environments like the Lagoon of New Caledonia. The study demonstrates that a method using Medium Resolution Imaging Spectrometer (MERIS) images—rotating red and green spectral bands to isolate depth-dependent and reflectance-dependent components—yields accurate bathymetric results only when chlorophyll concentrations remain low (<3) and stable (<10% variation). Exceeding these thresholds leads to increased root mean square error (RMSE) in bathymetric maps, underscoring the critical role of water composition in remote sensing accuracy. This finding highlights the need for careful consideration of chlorophyll variability when using satellite data for underwater topography mapping.

Influencia de la etapa de sucesión, fragmentación y exposición a la extracción en la estructura poblacional de Euterpe precatoria (Arecaeae)

Manú National Park — 2013 — WHE7866C74EB3

Euterpe precatoria, a neotropical palm prized for its edible palm heart, exhibits higher seedling densities in secondary forests and extracted primary forests compared to continuous primary forests or fragments. This finding suggests that while the species benefits from disturbance, historical over-extraction has led to local loss of traditional consumption practices. The study analyzed population structure across four sites in Costa Rica—Braulio Carrillo National Park (BCNP), La Selva Biological Station (LSBS), Manú Center, and Finca El Progreso (FEP)—during 2007–2008, assessing successional stages, fragmentation, and extraction exposure. Results showed that palms under 5 meters accounted for 50–90% of total individuals, with higher densities in disturbed areas. These insights are critical for designing sustainable management strategies that integrate community participation.

Inheritance Activities of the Local Community Arts: Initiative of Schools, in Amami Oshima Island

Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island — 2013 — WHE0DD9C69834

Schools on Amami Oshima Island are emerging as pivotal spaces for the inheritance and evolution of local performing arts, alongside traditional community-based practices. This study reveals that schools, particularly in non-urban areas, foster a mutually complementary relationship with communities (shima), where authentic arts are preserved by shima while schools drive creative reinterpretations. Urban schools, however, tend to operate independently, prioritizing educational logic over community ties. The research highlights the risk of losing the original identity of folk songs when adapted as educational materials, yet also notes the potential for schools to inspire new forms of 'Amami Oshima performing arts.' By integrating the seniority-based logic of shima into school activities, these initiatives ensure continuity and innovation in cultural preservation.

Innovation and sustainability in a cultural landscape

Portovenere, Cinque Terre, and the Islands (Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto) — 2013 — WHE638B622C2A

A study on the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Portovenere, Cinque Terre, and the Islands (Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto) identifies critical vulnerabilities to both natural (floods, landslips) and human-induced threats (abandonment of agricultural landscapes, uncontrolled modifications to built heritage). The research proposes criteria for Guidelines aimed at enhancing the eco-efficiency of traditional rural heritage while integrating small-scale renewable energy solutions. This approach seeks to balance sustainability with innovation, addressing the site's fragility through methodical planning and technical interventions.

Inscribing Spiritual Authority: the Temptation of St. Benedict Capital in the Narthex at Vézelay

Vézelay, Church and Hill — 2013 — WHEE799B5CBFE

A rare medieval capital depicting the Temptation of St. Benedict at Vézelay's Church of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine was strategically positioned to confront monks with a warning about resisting sexual temptation, particularly concerning women in the narthex—a transitional space symbolizing Galilee. The inscription labeling a woman as 'DIABOLVS' underscored the monastic emphasis on celibacy during a period of conflict over spiritual authority. This study reveals how the capital's placement opposite the Pentecost tympanum and Eucharistic imagery reinforced the monks' salvific mission, mirroring the Apostles' role in a ritualized context. Through iconographic analysis of neighboring artworks and liturgical processions, the research demonstrates how text and image collaboratively conveyed theological and social messages during medieval worship.

Inside the Sun Pyramid at Teotihuacan, Mexico: 2008—2011 Excavations and Preliminary Results

Pre-Hispanic City of Teotihuacan — 2013 — WHECA4A59A506

Excavations at Teotihuacan's Sun Pyramid reveal that its subterranean tunnel was artificially constructed for ritual purposes, likely involving royal burials or offerings. The study identifies three distinct construction phases: a Pre-Sun Pyramid phase, the establishment of the main corpus, and the addition of an adosada platform. Burials, offerings, and other features were uncovered in each phase. New ceramic and radiocarbon dating challenge previous chronologies, suggesting that both the Sun Pyramid and its subterranean tunnel date to a later period (A.D. 170–310 for the pyramid and A.D. 140–240 for the tunnel) than previously believed. This redates the ceremonial center's construction, providing fresh insights into Teotihuacan's architectural and ritual practices.

Insights into archaeal evolution and symbiosis from the genomes of a nanoarchaeon and its inferred crenarchaeal host from Obsidian Pool, Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park — 2013 — WHE00FA4CCCB2

Researchers have uncovered significant insights into the evolution and symbiosis of archaea by analyzing the genomes of a terrestrial hyperthermophilic nanoarchaeon (Nst1) from Yellowstone National Park's Obsidian Pool and its inferred crenarchaeal host. The study reveals that both Nst1 and Nanoarchaeum equitans, a marine counterpart, lack most biosynthetic capabilities but share a deep-branching archaeal lineage. Notably, Nst1 exhibits a larger genome with a complete gluconeogenesis pathway and flagellum proteins, suggesting less severe genome reduction compared to N. equitans. This implies that the compact genomes and split genes in Nanoarchaeota are derived traits linked to their symbiotic or parasitic lifestyle rather than ancestral characters. The inferred host's streamlined genome hints at autotrophy, providing novel perspectives on archaeal symbiosis mechanisms.

Insights into magma and fluid transfer at Mount Etna by a multiparametric approach: A model of the events leading to the 2011 eruptive cycle

Mount Etna — 2013 — WHE9C7F02AE2D

A multiparametric analysis of Mount Etna's volcanic activity from 2009 to 2011 revealed a cyclical eruptive behavior characterized by 18 lava fountains from the New Southeast Crater (NSEC) in 2011. The study, which integrated volcanological, geophysical, and geochemical data, identified distinct phases of magma recharge and movement within the volcano's plumbing system. Key findings included accelerated displacement in the eastern flank since April 2009 and renewed summit activity in late 2010, leading to the 2011 eruptive cycle. Geochemical data and ground deformation GPS inversions constrained the depth and area of magma degassing, providing insights into intermediate and shallow storage zones feeding the NSEC activity.

Institutional Arrangements for Adaptive Governance of Biodiversity Conservation: The Experience of the Area de Conservación de Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Area de Conservación Guanacaste — 2013 — WHEB54638826A

A key insight from the Area de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG) in Costa Rica is that its adaptive governance of biodiversity conservation hinges on five critical institutional attributes: a clear, internalized vision; opportunities for learning and practice; high organizational contextualization; long-term financial and administrative autonomy; and access to diverse resources through multi-scale linkages. These attributes interact dynamically to enable effective co-production of biodiversity conservation, unlike other protected areas in Costa Rica where such factors were absent. The study identifies these attributes by analyzing the ACG's institutional arrangements, offering a model for adaptive governance that can be applied globally.

Integrated Geophysical and Geological Data Evaluation to Support a Hydrogeological Model for the North Sea Island of Föhr

Wadden Sea — 2013 — WHED8F9FD5D92

A comprehensive hydrogeological model for the North Sea island of Föhr, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Wadden Sea, reveals critical insights into freshwater distribution and vulnerability to global change. The study integrates geophysical surveys—including airborne transient electromagnetic (EM) and 2D reflection seismic measurements—with geological borehole data to map subsurface resistivity and identify buried valleys and glaciotectonic structures. This model was used to simulate future impacts of sea level rise and increased precipitation, predicting significant changes in freshwater distribution by 2100. The findings highlight the importance of integrated geophysical methods for understanding coastal aquifers and their resilience to environmental pressures.

Interdependency of Cultural Heritage Assets in the Old Quarter, Melaka Heritage City

Melaka and George Town, Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca — 2013 — WHEFE3C5A6EC0

A robust interdependency exists between tangible and intangible cultural heritage assets in the Old Quarter of Melaka, necessitating their parallel development for effective safeguarding. This study leverages the Cultural Resource Framework to identify and document these assets through a comprehensive database, offering a scalable approach applicable to complex urban historic sites like UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The framework's dual focus on people, place, and history provides a nuanced understanding of cultural heritage dynamics, bridging gaps in preservation strategies.

Internal Challenges to the Cold War

Bikini Atoll Nuclear Test Site — 2013 — WHEEEA527DF26

The Cold War order faced continuous challenges from both societal movements and government-led oppositions between 1947 and 1990, with key events such as the anti-Vietnam protests, the 1956 Hungarian uprising, and nuclear tests like the 1954 hydrogen bomb testing on Bikini Atoll serving as pivotal moments of resistance. Analyzing five core periods—including the Korean War and the Cuban missile crisis—the study reveals that opposition to the Cold War paradigm was a persistent feature rather than an exception. This work highlights how domestic foreign policies and societal dissent collectively shaped global tensions during this era, offering a nuanced perspective on the fragility of Cold War structures.

International Law Protecting Cultural Property in Armed Conflict

Old Bridge Area of the Old City of Mostar — 2013 — WHEC29B699A61

International humanitarian law provides significant protections for cultural property during armed conflict, as demonstrated by the case of the Old Bridge in Mostar. The study clarifies that both treaty-based and customary international law apply to the destruction of the bridge, which occurred during the Croat-Muslim conflict in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It highlights two key tests—direct intervention and overall control—to assess the applicability of these legal frameworks. By analyzing the nature of the conflict and the legal instruments in place, the research underscores that cultural property, such as the Old Bridge, is not merely secondary to personal protection but is subject to robust international safeguards.

Interpreting historic and cultural landscapes.: Potentials and risks in Geographical Information Systems building for knowledge and management

Residences of the Royal House of Savoy — 2013 — WHE6FEAA35CBA

Geographical Information Systems (GIS) can effectively support the management of UNESCO World Heritage Sites by integrating multidisciplinary landscape analysis, but risks of ambiguity arise when combining descriptive and management-oriented data. A study on the 'Residences of the Royal House of Savoy' demonstrates that GIS must balance holistic interpretative layers with precise spatial representation to facilitate connections beyond administrative boundaries. The approach highlights historic, scenic, and environmental relationships while addressing challenges in geographical representation.

Interpreting Reasons: The Interpretation of the 1962 Temple of Preah Vihear Judgment

Temple of Preah Vihear — 2013 — WHE2202A2AFE7

A landmark 2013 interpretation by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on its 1962 judgment regarding the Temple of Preah Vihear revealed a shift toward greater flexibility in revisiting judicial reasoning under Article 60 of the ICJ Statute. While the Court reaffirmed its strict approach to interpreting previous judgments, it also disavowed a narrow definition of 'inseparable' reasons from operative clauses and acknowledged that 'essential' elements could be subject to reinterpretation. This suggests potential future flexibility in how the Court handles such requests, balancing stability in international relations with adaptability. The study argues that intermediate conclusions from prior judgments should remain open to interpretation under Article 60, challenging traditional legal boundaries.

Intervir em paisagens culturais evolutives: a arquitectura do vinho no Alto Douro Vinhateiro

Alto Douro Wine Region — 2013 — WHE71BEC6452F

A key insight from this study is the critical role of vernacular heritage in sustaining the criteria for UNESCO's classification of evolutionary cultural landscapes, exemplified by the Alto Douro Wine Region. The research highlights how human interventions, particularly those related to wine production, shape and preserve these landscapes over time. By analyzing the architectural elements and practices associated with winemaking, the study underscores their significance in maintaining the cultural and ecological integrity that defines such landscapes. This approach combines historical analysis with landscape architecture principles to provide a nuanced understanding of how traditional practices contribute to the preservation of UNESCO-listed sites.

Intra row spacing effect on shelf life of onion varieties (Allium cepa L.) at Aksum, Northern Ethiopia

Aksum — 2013 — WHE6F66FDD1FC

Research at Aksum, Ethiopia, reveals that the 'Nasik' Red onion variety demonstrates superior shelf life qualities compared to others, with lower post-harvest deterioration and marketable loss. Conversely, larger bulb sizes resulting from increased intra-row spacing (10 cm) show higher rotting percentages during storage. The study also found that an intra-row spacing of 7.5 cm yields optimal bulb weight while maintaining good storage quality. Additionally, 'Melkam' and 'Bombay' Red varieties were identified as superior in yield, whereas 'Nasik' Red excels in storage durability, with 'Adama' Red and 'Melkam' showing moderate performance. This study employed a randomized complete block design to evaluate the effects of intra-row spacing (5, 7.5, and 10 cm) on four onion varieties over an eight-month period from 2010 to 2011.