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Publications

Showing 26941 – 26960 of 30315 publications

The reconstructive study of the Greek colony of Syracuse in a 3D stereoscopic movie for tourists and scholars

Syracuse and the Rocky Necropolis of Pantalica — 2013 — WHEE9CEFD57FA

A groundbreaking 3D stereoscopic documentary, 'Siracusa 3D reborn,' offers a transformative approach to presenting the Greek heritage of Syracuse. This virtual archaeology project, collaboration between IBAM-CNR and Arcadia University-TCGS, digitally reconstructs Ortigia, the core district of ancient Syracuse, providing an immersive experience that bridges the gap between academic research and public engagement. The documentary aims to correct historical misconceptions and enhance the city's cultural attractiveness by showcasing its significant Greek background, including the works of notable figures like Archimedes and Pindar. This innovative method not only advances the understanding of Syracuse's historical significance but also sets a precedent for developing new developmental policies that leverage digital heritage to foster economic growth and accurate public perception.

The Research on the Impacts of Human Activities on the Evolution of Water Quality in Jiuzhaigou Natural Reserve

Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic and Historic Interest Area — 2013 — WHEE9AE9A2D0D

Human activities have not significantly impacted the water quality in Jiuzhaigou Natural Reserve, despite its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and popular tourist destination. The study analyzed 11 water samples across multiple valleys, measuring parameters such as dissolved oxygen, pH, salinity, turbidity, and nutrient levels (total nitrogen and phosphorus). Results indicated that the water remains weakly acidic with low contamination, while air quality over sampling points exceeded purity standards, with negative ion concentrations above 1000 per cubic centimeter. Zharu Valley exhibited notably higher water quality compared to other valleys, though no substantial differences were observed between samples in the remaining three valleys. This suggests that current human activities, including tourism, have not adversely affected the reserve's delicate aquatic ecosystem.

The rhetoric of Lao/French fusion: beyond the representation of the Western tourist experience of cuisine in the world heritage city of Luang Prabang, Laos

Town of Luang Prabang — 2013 — WHE295BF7C549

Luang Prabang's 'Lao-French fusion cuisine' is a selective and partial representation that masks the dynamic, multifaceted nature of food traditions in the UNESCO World Heritage city. This study reveals how the rhetoric of fusion, shaped by Luang Prabang's self-presentation to Western tourists, simplifies complex culinary interactions—including local farming, market dynamics, imports from neighboring countries, and social group distinctions—to create a fixed, touristic image. The research examines contestations around cuisine representation, highlighting how this narrative excludes broader food scenarios and freezes fluid processes into static depictions.

The Role of Birds in the Settlement of Shahr‐i Sokhta (Sistan, Iran) During the 3rd Millennium BC

Shahr-i Sokhta — 2013 — WHEE9744B0281

Archaeological excavations at Shahr-i Sokhta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Iran, reveal that birds played a significant role in the settlement during the 3rd millennium BC. Analysis of 2875 bird remains from 43 species indicates that aquatic birds like the Eurasian coot dominated, while arid-adapted species such as the cinereous vulture and sandgrouse suggest diverse local habitats. Most species were likely hunted for meat, with evidence of eggshell collection, though taphonomic analysis shows Gruiformes and Anseriformes were primarily consumed. The presence of anthropic marks on large bird ulnae hints at bone utilization for non-food purposes. This study provides insight into the environmental conditions and subsistence practices of ancient Shahr-i Sokhta.

The role of dust storms in total atmospheric particle concentrations at two sites in the western U.S.

Mesa Verde National Park — 2013 — WHE6791A20972

Regional dust storms significantly elevate atmospheric particle concentrations, particularly those exceeding 10 µm in diameter, in arid and semiarid regions of the western U.S. A study at Mesa Verde National Park and Canyonlands National Park revealed that total suspended particle (TSP) concentrations can surge to over 200 µg m−3 during these events, with median particle sizes ranging from approximately 10 µm in winter to 40 µm in spring. Fine particles (≤2.5 µm) remained consistently below 10 µg m−3 across all years, indicating that coarse particles dominate TSP concentrations. The research analyzed continuous TSP records alongside fine and coarse particle measurements, highlighting the critical role of dust storms in shaping air quality dynamics from spring through fall.

The Role of Multilateral Environmental Agreements in Armed Conflict: ‘Green-keeping’ in Virunga Park. Applying the UNESCO World Heritage Convention in the Armed Conflict of the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Virunga National Park — 2013 — WHE3F965C177A

A unique 'green-keeping' approach, combining the efforts of UNESCO's World Heritage Committee and UN peacekeeping forces, has emerged as an effective strategy to address both security and conservation challenges during armed conflicts. This study highlights how multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs), particularly the 1972 UNESCO World Heritage Convention (WHC), can provide substantive obligations that transcend vague principles, even in conflict zones like Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). While the WHC's detailed decisions and recommendations may sometimes clash with military necessity, they offer a practical framework for harmonizing legal regimes. This cooperative effort demonstrates the potential for MEAs to bridge gaps between environmental protection and security concerns, offering a model for future conflict resolution strategies.

The Role of the Gestalt Theory in Understanding Persian Architectural Masterpieces, Case Study: Fin-Garden of Kashan

The Persian Garden — 2013 — WHE7C97F70D5F

Gestalt theory, traditionally applied in various fields but not yet explored in Iranian architecture, offers valuable insights for analyzing Persian architectural masterpieces, such as the Fin-Garden of Kashan. This study demonstrates that gestalt principles can effectively uncover intricate aspects of landscape architecture, providing a fresh perspective on historical gardens. By employing logical reasoning and diffusion strategies, researchers identified key dimensions emphasized by gestalt theory, revealing both its advantages—such as clarity in recognizing architectural elements—and potential limitations. The findings suggest that gestalt theory remains relevant and applicable even after decades, bridging gaps in the understanding of Iranian landscape architecture.

The Roman Limes in the Netherlands: how a delta landscape determined the location of the military structures

Frontiers of the Roman Empire — 2013 — WHE5EDA428934

A new palaeogeographical reconstruction reveals that the distinctive landscape of the Lower Rhine delta, characterized by numerous tributaries, dictated the spatial arrangement of Roman military structures. All forts (castella) were strategically placed on southern natural levees along the river Rhine, regardless of subsoil conditions, to guard waterways and control access from Germanic territories and the Meuse tributary. This integrated system of castella and watchtowers initially served as a defensive barrier against Germanic invasions and facilitated secure transport routes for army supplies during the British invasion in 43 A.D., later evolving into a frontier zone by the end of the first century. The study leverages LIDAR-derived digital elevation models, soil maps, and excavation data to elucidate these environmental-military interactions.

The Rural Landscape of Thugga: Farms, Presses, Mills, and Transport

Dougga / Thugga — 2013 — WHE9B3C9CD48A

A new copy of a law governing tenancy rights on imperial estates was discovered, providing unprecedented insights into the agricultural exploitation and landholding patterns of the Roman period in Thugga (Dougga), Tunisia. This finding, combined with extensive epigraphic and archaeological records, allows for the mapping of individual farms and villas, including those equipped with oil or wine presses, within known estate boundaries marked by stones. The study also sheds light on irrigation infrastructure and transport networks that facilitated the movement of surplus production to distant markets. Through a comprehensive analysis of the landscape, this research offers an exceptionally rich understanding of Roman agricultural practices in North Africa.

The Sacred Almone River of the Appian Way Regional Park in Rome: ancient myths, a ritual link between Rome and Asia Minor and water uses in the modern age

Via Appia. Regina Viarum — 2013 — WHEA980A721EF

The Almone River, though small, holds significant historical and cultural importance as it played a pivotal role in ancient Roman rituals, particularly the lavatio ceremony for the Great Mother-Cybele goddess. This study reveals its dual significance—both sacred in antiquity and practical in later periods, shaping local settlements and economies through water mills and wool-fulling mills ('valche'). The research combines historical analysis with modern observations to highlight the river's enduring legacy, from its ritual use to its role in artisanal activities during the Middle Ages, Renaissance, and beyond. One restored mill now serves as a visitor center for the Appian Way Regional Park, underscoring the river's continued cultural and tourist value.

The Sahara

Ancient Ksour of Ouadane, Chinguetti, Tichitt and Oualata — 2013 — WHE3878C71706

The Sahara, edited by John Keenan (2013), presents a comprehensive exploration of the climate-environment-society nexus across the Sahara from prehistoric times to the present. It reveals how Saharan societies have adapted to environmental changes, highlighting the significance of trans-Saharan trade routes in shaping cultural and economic landscapes. The study integrates archaeological evidence, historical records, and anthropological insights to reconstruct the region's complex history. Notably, it examines the Garamantian agricultural practices and their broader North African context, providing new perspectives on pre-colonial societies' resilience and innovation. Additionally, it addresses contemporary challenges such as cultural heritage destruction, tourism impacts, and political struggles in Western Sahara, offering a nuanced understanding of the region's past and present.

The Self-Defeating Nature of “Modesty”— Based Gender Segregation

Old City of Jerusalem and its Walls — 2013 — WHE07F944EAB4

Gender segregation in Israel, particularly on public transportation, constitutes sexual harassment under Israeli law and is self-defeating from the perspective of Orthodox religious principles. The study argues that such segregation, enforced by ultra-Orthodox communities, creates an intimidating or humiliating environment for women, violating Section 3(5)(a) of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment Law. Despite its intention to 'clean' the public sphere of female sexuality, this focus paradoxically centralizes women's sexuality in attention. The research analyzes cases like segregated buses and the Western Wall, where women face verbal and physical abuse for non-compliance with modesty rules. It highlights the legal and social contradictions of these practices, which, despite being framed as 'voluntary,' often lack alternatives and disproportionately affect women.

The Seville Cathedral altarpiece: A microbiological and chemical survey of the dust

Cathedral, Alcázar and Archivo de Indias in Seville — 2013 — WHE302D3EDCA9

A microbiological and chemical survey of the dust on the Seville Cathedral's altarpiece, the largest in the world, reveals critical insights into its degradation. The study, conducted prior to a 1977 restoration intervention, identified significant structural issues such as wood deterioration, flaking polychromy, and gilding loss, alongside microbial activity contributing to material decay. The research employed chemical analysis and microbiological techniques to assess the altarpiece's condition, providing a foundation for targeted conservation strategies. These findings underscored the need for urgent stabilization measures, including wood consolidation and material attenuation, to preserve this monumental Renaissance masterpiece.

The small flying squirrel (Petinomys fuscocapillus) observed after 78 years in Sri Lanka

Sinharaja Forest Reserve — 2013 — WHEC10AB52B22

After 78 years, the small flying squirrel (Petinomys fuscocapillus) was physically observed and documented for the first time in Sri Lanka. This rediscovery follows its initial documentation by Phillips in 1935 and subsequent camera trap confirmation in Sinharaja tropical rain forest in 2007. The species, previously thought to be extinct in India until its 1989 rediscovery, was sighted at the Knuckles Forest Reserve at an elevation of 522 meters above sea level. This finding provides critical evidence for the species' continued presence and distribution in Sri Lanka, contributing to conservation efforts for this elusive nocturnal squirrel.

The social construction of caves and rockshelters: Chauvet Cave (France) and Nawarla Gabarnmang (Australia)

Decorated Cave of Pont d’Arc, known as Grotte Chauvet-Pont d’Arc, Ardèche — 2013 — WHEAC59B82D12

Caves and rockshelters, often perceived as naturally occurring spaces exploited by humans, are revealed to be dynamically shaped by human action with significant symbolic meaning. A study applying the concept of 'aménagement'—the reshaping of material space—demonstrates that both Chauvet Cave in France and Nawarla Gabarnmang rockshelter in Australia were intentionally modified. At Chauvet, fallen blocks were repositioned to enhance natural structures like The Cactus, while at Nawarla Gabarnmang, ceiling blocks and supporting pillars were removed and discarded. This challenges the notion of these sites as purely natural environments, illustrating their social construction through deliberate human intervention.

The Solar Orientation of the Lion Rock Complex in Sri Lanka

Ancient City of Sigiriya — 2013 — WHE12EA99EE7A

Research reveals that the Lion Rock Complex at Sigiriya, Sri Lanka, is oriented along the path of the zenithal sunset. This alignment suggests a deliberate architectural design linked to solar phenomena. The study analyzed the complex's axis in relation to the sun's trajectory, providing evidence of sophisticated astronomical awareness in its construction. Such findings enhance our understanding of ancient engineering and cultural practices at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Strengthening Design of the Wooden Floor Structures of the Ducal Palace in Sabbioneta (MN)-Italy

Mantua and Sabbioneta — 2013 — WHEFF3B451000

A novel approach to strengthening the wooden floor structures of the Ducal Palace in Sabbioneta, Italy, has been developed, ensuring compatibility with Renaissance-era materials while prioritizing durability, recognizability, and reversibility. The design choices focus on maintaining structural integrity without compromising the historical authenticity of the site. This method addresses the challenges of preserving complex wooden structures in heritage buildings, offering a model for similar conservation efforts worldwide.

The Structural Concept of the 16th Century Floors of the Ducal Palace in Sabbioneta (Mantua, Italy)

Mantua and Sabbioneta — 2013 — WHEACCB9DA421

Research reveals the innovative structural design of 16th-century floors in Sabbioneta's Ducal Palace, showcasing advanced engineering for stability and durability. The study analyzed the palace's flooring system, combining historical documentation with material analysis to uncover its complex load-bearing mechanisms. Findings highlight the use of brick vaulting and cross-beam structures, demonstrating sophisticated Renaissance-era construction techniques that ensured long-term structural integrity. This work provides valuable insights into 16th-century architectural engineering, contributing to the preservation and understanding of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The Structure of Microbial Community and Degradation of Diatoms in the Deep Near-Bottom Layer of Lake Baikal

Lake Baikal — 2013 — WHE7ABCAAFC9F

A study on Lake Baikal reveals that the majority of bacteria in its deep near-bottom water layer are associated with diatom cells, either on their surface or within them. This finding is crucial for understanding silica turnover in aquatic ecosystems. Researchers used microscopic methods and pyrosequencing to analyze 149,208 unique bacterial sequences, identifying Proteobacteria (41.9%) as the dominant phylum, followed by Actinobacteria (16%), Acidobacteria (6.9%), and others. The metagenomic analysis also detected bacteria with potential hydrolytic enzyme activity, suggesting their role in diatom degradation. This research sheds light on the microbial community structure and its ecological functions in this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Study of 3-D Electrical Resistivity Tomography at an Archaeological Site

Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City — 2013 — WHE60FBB498D3

A study at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City, demonstrates that 3-D Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) is highly effective for archaeological prospection, particularly in complex subsurface environments. The research found that the pole-dipole array configuration is optimal for shallow surveys, excelling at characterizing water-filled ditches and buried ancient walls. Conducted with 128 electrodes arranged in a 16 by 8 grid spacing of 0.5 meters, the study evaluated four electrode configurations—pole-pole, pole-dipole, dipole-dipole, and Wenner—to assess their applicability and effectiveness for archaeological purposes. This approach offers significant potential for advancing subsurface imaging techniques in archaeological investigations.