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Imagining Global Amsterdam : History, Culture, and Geography in a World City

Seventeenth-Century Canal Ring Area of Amsterdam inside the Singelgracht — 2012 — WHEA0344B12ED

Amsterdam's global image, shaped by its history, culture, and geography, reflects the complexities of urban globalization. This interdisciplinary study reveals how Amsterdam has been imagined as a tolerant, multicultural 'global village' through film, literature, art, and urban discourse, particularly during its 'Golden Age.' It explores the dynamic interplay between globalization and the city's identity, examining topics such as global cultural memory, expressions of global consciousness, and the impact of globalization on urban culture. The research employs a broad humanities approach to analyze how city branding, the cultural heritage industry, and cultural production have influenced Amsterdam's perception both locally and globally.

Imagining Mount Athos: Visions of a Holy Place, from Homer to World War II

Mount Athos — 2012 — WHE56BA28771F

Mount Athos has been a focal point of cultural and religious significance since ancient times. A study by Veronica della Dora, published in 2011, explores the evolving visions of this holy place from Homer to World War II. The research reveals how Mount Athos has been imagined and represented across different historical periods, highlighting its enduring spiritual and symbolic importance. By analyzing literary, artistic, and historical sources, the study provides a comprehensive perspective on the site's cultural landscape. This approach offers valuable insights into the ways in which sacred spaces are constructed and perceived over time.

Impact hydrodynamique de la mise en place d’un parc d’hydroliennes en Baie du Mont Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay — 2012 — WHED825F9E17C

A study assessing the hydrodynamic impact of deploying tidal turbines (hydroliennes) in the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel reveals that even with significant energy extraction (up to 55%), the effect on local currents remains minimal. This finding is critical for balancing renewable energy development and ecological preservation, especially in macro-tidal environments like this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Researchers used the MARS3D hydrodynamic model to simulate tidal dynamics, validated against recent current measurements. They then evaluated the potential energy hotspots and modeled the impact of turbine deployment by introducing an energy extraction term into the model equations. The results indicate that small-scale turbine farms could harness substantial energy with negligible disruption to local hydrodynamics.

Impact metamorphism at the Cretaceous-Paleogene Boundary and High-pressure Mineral Physics

Anjar — 2012 — WHE925ECA222F

Research at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Anjar, India, provides compelling evidence for impact metamorphism at the Cretaceous-Paleogene Boundary (KPB). The study identifies the presence of iridium-rich layers and toluene-insoluble high-pressure phases of fullerene C60 in acid-resistant carbonaceous matter from the Intertrappean sediments. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopic analysis revealed characteristic absorption peaks at 1381, 741, 608, and 542 cm−1, indicative of non-hydrostatic high-pressure and temperature conditions. These findings strongly support an impact origin for the fullerenes at the KPB, contributing to the understanding of this critical period in Earth's history.

Impact of Shrimp Farm Effluent on Water Quality in Coastal Areas of the World Heritage-Listed Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago — 2012 — WHEC13818BDCB

Shrimp farming in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ha Long Bay significantly degrades water quality, with effluent containing high levels of nutrient waste causing eutrophication. Research found that concentrations of Total Ammonia Nitrogen (TAN), Nitrite-Nitrogen (NO2-N), Nitrate-Nitrogen (NO3-N), Total Phosphorus (TP), Dissolved Orthophosphate (PO4-P), Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), and Chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) were markedly higher in tidal creeks directly receiving shrimp farm effluent compared to adjacent areas. These levels exceeded recommended thresholds for aquatic ecosystem protection, particularly after the main shrimp crop season. The study employed spatial and temporal sampling across three locations—inside effluent-receiving creeks, outside concentrated farms, and distant from farms—to assess water quality parameters using standard methods. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed distinct patterns of nutrient co-variation, underscoring the urgent need for stricter environmental regulations to sustain Ha Long Bay's marine ecosystem.

Impacts of climate variability and human colonization on the vegetation of the Galápagos Islands

Galápagos Islands — 2012 — WHE13315B95F8

A 2690-year fossil pollen record from the Galápagos Islands reveals that vegetation changes were primarily driven by shifts in species abundance rather than immigration or extinction, with droughts during the Medieval Climate Anomaly inducing rapid but reversible ecological shifts. Human colonization significantly altered the ecosystem, leading to the decline of native species like Alternanthera and Acalypha before 1930 and their potential local extinction due to intensified animal husbandry. Post-1970 reductions in grazing animals did not restore the native flora but instead facilitated exotic species invasions, accelerating habitat change beyond historical variability. The study also suggests increased lowland pollen transport to uplands, consistent with warmer wet seasons and intensified convection.

Impacts of land use changes on soil erosion in Pa Deng sub-district, adjacent area of Kaeng Krachan National Park, Thailand

Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex — 2012 — WHE4A830F8093

Land use changes significantly influence soil erosion risk in Pa Deng sub-district, adjacent to Kaeng Krachan National Park, Thailand. The study found that smaller land cover areas exhibit higher soil erosion risk compared to larger ones over the 1990-2010 period. Researchers applied remote sensing, geographical information systems (GIS), and the Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE) to assess these impacts. This approach revealed a clear relationship between land use patterns and soil degradation, emphasizing the importance of monitoring and managing land cover to mitigate erosion effects.

Importance of dead wood resources for woodpeckers in coniferous stands of the Białowieża Forest

Białowieża Forest — 2012 — WHE5FD0DC973F

Research in the Białowieża Forest reveals that woodpecker populations, particularly sensitive species such as the Three-toed Woodpecker and White-backed Woodpecker, thrive in coniferous stands with abundant dead wood resources. The study, conducted across three management zones—primeval unmanaged stands (BNP), partially managed reserves (RES), and heavily managed stands (MAN)—found that woodpecker indices were highest in BNP, where dead standing trees were most dense, and lowest in MAN, where dead wood was scarce. While RES supported the greatest species diversity, its dead wood abundance lagged behind BNP. The findings underscore the critical role of dead wood in sustaining woodpecker populations and suggest that management regulations in Polish nature reserves should prioritize retaining at least 2 m² per hectare of freshly killed spruce after bark beetle outbreaks to preserve biodiversity.

Improving archaeological site analysis: a rampart in the middle Orkhon Valley investigated with combined geoscience techniques

Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape — 2012 — WHE550C7B60C2

A rampart in the Orkhon Valley, Mongolia, was dated to the Turk/Uighur period (6th–9th century AD) with potential reuse during Mongolian rule (12th–17th century AD), marking it as one of the farthest walled structures from Khar Balgas. The study combined geophysical techniques—including SQUID magnetometry, ground-penetrating radar, and electric resistivity measurements—with high-resolution topographic mapping to analyze MOR-2, a challenging site with scarce surface finds. Sediment cores from a nearby meander revealed increased organic content during Medieval times, supporting the dating hypothesis. While the rampart's specific function remains unclear, its construction aligns with known Uighur sites, offering new insights into Eurasian Steppe settlement history.

In situ noninvasive Raman microspectroscopic investigation of polychrome plasterworks in the Alhambra

Alhambra, Generalife and Albayzín, Granada — 2012 — WHE58B27DE5ED

A groundbreaking non-invasive Raman microspectroscopic analysis of the Alhambra's polychrome plasterworks, particularly in the Hall of the Kings, revealed the presence of ancient pigments like cinnabar and minium, alongside their degradation products. Notably, the study identified natural lapis lazuli in most blue decorations, confirming its origin, while synthetic ultramarine blue was detected in a recently restored vault. Conducted during conservation work using a portable Raman microspectrometer positioned on scaffolding, this method provided real-time data to conservators despite challenges like micro-probe positioning and scaffold vibrations. The findings highlight the potential of Raman spectroscopy for in situ analysis of cultural heritage sites.

Indígenas “auténticos” y campesinos “verdes”. Los imperativos identitarios del turismo en Colombia

National Archeological Park of Tierradentro — 2012 — WHE15A541C59C

Tourism development in Colombia imposes new identity requirements on local communities, shaping them into 'authentic' indigenous guardians of nature or 'green' farmers to meet market demands. This study reveals how economic and political recognition increasingly depend on these predefined roles, creating tensions between traditional identities and commercial expectations. Analyzing cases from Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Parque Natural Tayrona, and the National Archaeological Park of Tierradentro, researchers highlight the limitations of tourism as a sustainable path to prosperity, exposing its potential to reinforce rather than alleviate social inequalities.

Indigenous and non‐Indigenous knowledge and values combine to support management of Nywaigi lands in the Queensland coastal tropics

Wet Tropics of Queensland — 2012 — WHEB93BD76429

A groundbreaking collaboration between the Nywaigi Aboriginal people and non-Indigenous stakeholders has demonstrated that integrating Indigenous and scientific knowledge can effectively address complex natural resource management challenges. This approach, implemented on the Mungalla property in Queensland's coastal tropics since 1999, has not only supported customary aspirations of the Nywaigi but also built their capacity for sustainable land management. The study highlights how this dual-knowledge framework can be a powerful tool for conservation and restoration efforts in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Indigenous involvement and benefits from tourism in protected areas: a study of Purnululu National Park and Warmun Community, Australia

Purnululu National Park — 2012 — WHE333DE84480

A study of Purnululu National Park, Australia's World Heritage-listed site, reveals that while intrinsic cultural benefits are significant for the Warmun Aboriginal Community, financial gains from tourism remain limited due to logistical challenges and management issues. The research highlights a persistent sense of separation from the park among indigenous people, suggesting that addressing these perceptions could enhance sustainable tourism outcomes. Notably, some community members may prefer not to engage in tourism, indicating that underengagement can also contribute to sustainability efforts.

Influence de l’environnement sur la gestion des ressources au Néolithique dans la zone refuge du Dhar Néma (Mauritanie sud-orientale)

Ancient Ksour of Ouadane, Chinguetti, Tichitt and Oualata — 2012 — WHEE8B1B6840A

Archaeological research in the Dhar Néma region of southeastern Mauritania reveals how Neolithic populations adapted to environmental changes during the transition from a wetter to a drier Sahara. The study identifies six key sites along the escarpment, each representing distinct topographic and ecological contexts that provided refuge and sustained water supply. These findings highlight significant social and technical innovations, including village organization, agriculture, and animal husbandry, which emerged as populations became sedentary around the 3rd millennium BCE. The research underscores the resilience of Neolithic cultures in a fragile geoecosystem, offering insights into human adaptation to climate shifts during the late Holocene.

Influence of basin characteristics on baseflow and stormflow chemistry in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, USA

Great Smoky Mountains National Park — 2012 — WHEE1C151C9C5

Streams in higher-elevation basins (>975 m) within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park exhibit significantly lower pH, acid neutralizing capacity (ANC), sodium, and silicon concentrations, alongside elevated nitrate levels, compared to those in smaller or lower-altitude basins. The study reveals that basin characteristics—such as elevation, area, geology, soil properties, and vegetation—interactively influence stream chemistry during both baseflow and stormflow conditions. Notably, streams draining basins with Anakeesta geology (>10%) show reduced pH and sodium but higher aluminum concentrations during storm events. Soil hydraulic conductivity emerges as a critical factor, with higher conductivities correlating to lower ANC, base cations, and increased nitrate/sulfate in stormflow. These findings underscore the dominant role of soil and geological properties over topographical factors in shaping aquatic chemistry, guiding prioritization for conservation strategies.

Influencia de la disponibilidad de agua en la presencia y abundancia de Tapirus bairdii en la selva de Calakmul, Campeche, México

Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche — 2012 — WHE1276C2EAAD

Water availability is a key determinant of the distribution and abundance of Baird's tapir (Tapirus bairdii) in Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, Mexico. The study found that tapirs were predominantly active at night, with adult individuals dominating the population in a balanced sex ratio. Among 15 watering holes studied across three microregions from 2008 to 2010, 14 showed tapir presence, with the highest activity recorded in the southern microregion and 'Bonfil' watering hole (central microregion). Camera-trap data revealed an abundance of 37.57 individuals per 1000 trap-nights. Environmental variables such as water availability and vegetation structure—particularly arboreal secondary forest and tall forest—significantly influenced tapir presence, underscoring the critical role of watering holes in conservation efforts for this species.

Innovation and Spiritual Value in Medieval Monastic Art: The Case of the Main Narthex Portal at Vézelay

Vézelay, Church and Hill — 2012 — WHE7D4BB34185

Medieval monastic art at the Cluniac abbey of Vézelay around 1100 CE demonstrated a unique blend of tradition and innovation, drawing inspiration from Anglo-Saxon manuscript illuminations and biblical texts to create a portal that stood out both aesthetically and intellectually. This study reveals that the creators of the main narthex portal at Vézelay engaged in a triangular process of creation, synthesizing earlier artistic influences with new interpretations to justify its place within a monastic setting. By analyzing the portal's relationship to Anglo-Saxon imagery and scriptural sources, researchers uncovered how this approach aimed to captivate audiences on multiple levels while honoring established traditions.

Innovative Stahlfensterkonstruktionen für das Weltkulturerbe Bauhaus Dessau

Bauhaus and its Sites in Weimar, Dessau and Bernau — 2012 — WHEEB18F64FAA

A groundbreaking solution for the preservation of UNESCO World Heritage Sites has emerged from the energetic renovation of the Bauhaus Dessau, a landmark of modern architecture. The study introduces innovative thermally insulated steel window profiles that meet stringent aesthetic and structural requirements while ensuring energy efficiency. These profiles, developed through extensive research and regulatory compliance, maintain the delicate proportions and fine structures characteristic of Walter Gropius's original design. This approach sets a new standard for balancing historical integrity with modern sustainability in heritage conservation.

Innovative Technologies Used to Investigate Segments of the Inca Road

Qhapaq Ñan, Andean Road System — 2012 — WHE39EF7D42F1

A groundbreaking study of the Qhapaq Ñan, the Andean Road System, reveals sustainable engineering practices employed by the Inca civilization. The research, supported by the National Science Foundation and Smithsonian Institute, utilized advanced technologies such as satellite communication systems, GIS/GPS mapping, photogrammetry, laser range finding, and ground-penetrating radar (GPR) to analyze the road's design and construction methods in extreme conditions. These findings highlight innovative techniques that could inform modern engineering practices. The study also showcased its discoveries globally through live interactive satellite broadcasts, providing a unique educational experience for visitors at the National Museum of the American Indian.

Insights into the perceived impact of park creation on the lives of local residents within Gros Morne National Park

Gros Morne National Park — 2012 — WHED9C21D3853

Local residents of Gros Morne National Park perceive both losses and gains since its establishment in 1973. While restrictions on traditional extractive activities, personal land use, recreation, and relocation have reduced their freedom, the park has also brought benefits such as employment opportunities, environmental protection, heritage preservation, and community development. This study, using qualitative methods including in-depth interviews with 12 residents, reveals a nuanced impact of park creation on local lives, balancing constraints with positive outcomes.