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A Study on the Landscape Attractions Evaluative Systems of Gyeongju Historic Heritage Sites

Gyeongju Historic Areas — 2014 — WHE3736FC07EA

A comprehensive evaluative system for assessing the landscape attractions of Gyeongju Historic Areas has been developed. This system identifies 22 key indicators across three domains: historical and cultural, heritage resources, and urban environment. These indicators were selected based on expert surveys and rigorous statistical analysis, including importance, standard deviation, content validity ratio, agreement, and convergence metrics. The study highlights that these indicators can serve as a valuable tool for enhancing the city's historic charm and competitiveness, offering a structured approach to recognizing and improving Gyeongju's unique attributes.

African islands and the formation of the Dutch Atlantic economy: Arguin, Gorée, Cape Verde and São Tomé, 1590–1670

Island of Gorée — 2014 — WHE3046BB3AAF

Atlantic islands played a pivotal role in the expansion of European overseas empires, yet their significance within the Dutch maritime empire remains understudied. This study highlights the strategic importance of African islands—Arguin, Gorée, Cape Verde, and São Tomé—as linchpins in the 17th-century Dutch Atlantic economy. By analyzing notarial archives from Amsterdam, Dutch West India Company (WIC) records, and voyage journals, researchers demonstrate how these islands facilitated commercial circuits, strengthened colonial ambitions, and supported military strategies of the Dutch Republic and WIC. The findings underscore the geo-strategic value of these islands in shaping transcontinental trade networks and European maritime dominance during this period.

Against Chauvet-nism. A critique of recent attempts to validate an early chronology for the art of Chauvet Cave

Decorated Cave of Pont d’Arc, known as Grotte Chauvet-Pont d’Arc, Ardèche — 2014 — WHEACE025AF0C

A critical reassessment challenges the widely accepted early chronology for the art of Chauvet Cave, questioning whether its 'black series' charcoal drawings belong to the Early Upper Palaeolithic (Aurignacian) rather than the Mid and Late Upper Palaeolithic. The study argues that despite nearly two decades of debate, the original research team has failed to address key objections raised in peer-reviewed literature. Radiocarbon dating initially suggested an earlier date for these artworks, which would significantly alter our understanding of Upper Palaeolithic art development. This critique emphasizes the need for rigorous scientific validation and peer scrutiny to ensure accurate historical interpretations.

An appraisal of the qualifying role of hydraulic heritage systems: a case study of Qanats in central Iran

The Persian Qanat — 2014 — WHEC187FB370C

A case study of Qanats in central Iran reveals the significant but often overlooked role of hydraulic heritage systems in urban drainage and water management. These ancient underground channels, known for their sustainability over millennia, demonstrate functional interconnectedness with society and ecology. However, a modern drainage system modeled after Qanat techniques led to a dramatic drop in groundwater levels, highlighting both the potential and pitfalls of integrating historical hydrosystems into contemporary infrastructure. The study underscores the need to reconsider the qualifying role of such heritage systems in revitalization plans, balancing their historical significance with modern engineering challenges.

An Interconnected World? Evidence of Interaction in the Arts of Epiclassic Cacaxtla and Xochicalco, Mexico

Archaeological Monuments Zone of Xochicalco — 2014 — WHE98FF63B573

Archaeological evidence from the Epiclassic period (AD 650-900) reveals complex interactions between the independent polities of Cacaxtla and Xochicalco, located in Central Mexico. These centers developed distinctive art styles that incorporated elements from distant regions, particularly Maya influences from the tropical lowlands. While previous studies focused on murals at Cacaxtla and sculptures at Xochicalco, this research expands the scope to include elite sumptuary goods, ritual items, and utilitarian trade goods like ceramics and obsidian. These artifacts suggest diverse strategies for identity formation, with references to Teotihuacan, Maya, Oaxaca, and Veracruz monuments indicating nuanced agendas in monumental artworks.

Application of energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry to polychrome terracotta sculptures from the Alcobaça Monastery, Portugal

Monastery of Alcobaça — 2014 — WHE8FC8C10530

Researchers used portable energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (EDXRF) to analyze polychrome terracotta sculptures from the Alcobaça Monastery, revealing that these 17th-century artworks underwent at least two subsequent interventions: a likely 19th-century refurbishment and an 18th-century repolychroming. By comparing elemental compositions across statues, the study provided the first material characterization of the coatings, offering new insights into their conservation history. The findings highlight the potential of EDXRF for non-invasive analysis of layered chromatic materials in cultural heritage.

Archaeological Researches on the Excavated Finds at the Ancient City of Wadee

Pyu Ancient Cities — 2014 — WHE696E6F8718

A newly discovered ancient site, Wadee, sheds light on Myanmar's prehistoric period and its connection to the Pyu civilization. Located near Phayagyi Village in Central Myanmar, Wadee is one of several circular-walled cities, smaller than major Pyu sites like Srikshetra but larger than Thagara in Dawe. The excavation reveals varied remains that provide insights into Wadee's past and its relationship with other Pyu sites and earlier periods, including the Samon culture. This study contributes to understanding the broader context of Myanmar's pre-historic era by analyzing excavated finds, offering a glimpse into a previously unfamiliar ancient human settlement.

Architectural heritage in the city of Hebron and the rehabilitation of the historical centre

Hebron/Al-Khalil Old Town — 2014 — WHE7074A75210

Hebron/Al-Khalil Old Town's architectural heritage, particularly Souq al-wakala, showcases unique regional and historical characteristics that hold significant cultural value in Palestine. A proposed rehabilitation project aims to repurpose the souq into a multifunctional space, including a guest house for the Hebron Rehabilitation Centre (HRC), while adhering to international standards for sustainable urban rehabilitation. The study emphasizes the need to integrate essential services and maintain historical authenticity, ensuring the preservation of this culturally rich site.

Are Therapy Dogs Like Xanax? Does Animal-Assisted Therapy Impact Processes Relevant to Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy?

Saltaire — 2014 — WHEB6231D8909

Animal-assisted therapy, featuring therapy dogs, shows promise as an effective non-pharmacological intervention for cognitive behavioral psychotherapy. A study reviewing the exhibition 'Cloth & Memory 2' at Salts Mill, Saltaire, Yorkshire, found that interactions with therapy dogs can significantly reduce stress and anxiety, akin to the effects of pharmaceutical interventions like Xanax. The research employed a qualitative approach, analyzing participant responses and experiences during the exhibition, which integrated animal-assisted therapy elements. Findings suggest that such therapies may offer a complementary or alternative approach to traditional cognitive behavioral techniques, potentially enhancing emotional well-being without the side effects associated with medication.

Assembling ritual, the burden of the everyday: an exercise in relational ontology in Quebrada de Humahuaca, Argentina

Quebrada de Humahuaca — 2014 — WHE7DF09E738C

Ritual practices in Quebrada de Humahuaca, Argentina, are not isolated from everyday life but are deeply embedded within social performance and relational ontology. This challenges traditional dualistic views that separate ritual from common activities. The study employs a relational approach to ritual, emphasizing its role in social structures and bridging the gap between the sacred and the mundane. By analyzing contemporary archaeological contexts, it argues that ritual is an integral part of how societies perform and maintain their identities.

Assessing the Contribution of Marine Protected Areas to the Trophic Functioning of Ecosystems: A Model for the Banc d’Arguin and the Mauritanian Shelf

Banc d'Arguin National Park — 2014 — WHE6490D950AD

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) like the Banc d'Arguin National Park play a significant role in sustaining larger ecosystems, contributing up to 13% to total consumption and supporting 23% of production on the Mauritanian shelf. A study using food web models revealed that 15 out of 29 exploited species rely on the Banc for over 30% of their diet, highlighting its critical trophic function. The research applied Ecopath with Ecosim to analyze data from 1991-2006, accounting for fisheries, food web structure, and spatial distribution while addressing knowledge gaps through multiple models. Findings indicated that increased fishing pressure led to declines in high-trophic-level biomass and catch, confirming overexploitation. Simulations further showed that additional fleets could reduce outside MPA catches by 23%, underscoring the importance of MPAs in maintaining ecosystem balance.

Astronomical Observatory

The Jantar Mantar, Jaipur — 2014 — WHEF270E13D56

Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of India's most renowned astronomical observatories, was built in 1724 by Maharaja Jai Singh II to create precise astronomical tables and predict celestial movements. Constructed with advanced instruments (yantras) based on mathematical formulas (mantars), it played a pivotal role in early modern astronomy before being rendered obsolete by urban development. Though no longer used for scientific purposes, its historical significance as a testament to 18th-century Indian astronomical innovation remains unparalleled. The site's preservation highlights the intersection of science, architecture, and cultural heritage, drawing millions of visitors annually.

Authenticity of Ficus Hispida as a Local Traditional Product in the Lembah Lenggong World Heritage Site

Archaeological Heritage of the Lenggong Valley — 2014 — WHE4897DB17B2

Ficus hispida, a native plant species in the Lenggong Valley, holds significant cultural and culinary importance for local communities. This study highlights its role as a key ingredient in traditional dishes like 'Masak Pindang' and its use in herbal remedies, particularly for wound treatment and maternal care. The research emphasizes the need to preserve this species and associated traditional knowledge amid growing tourism, ensuring the authenticity of local products. By documenting its uses and promoting its cultural significance, the study aims to safeguard Ficus hispida's heritage value for future generations.

Bait Selection of Butterflies at Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex World Heritage, Thailand

Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex — 2014 — WHE9EAEBCC75F

A study at the Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Thailand, identified fermented fish mixed with fermented pineapple as the most effective bait for attracting tropical butterflies. This combination, rich in sodium and amino acids, drew 69 butterfly species, surpassing other baits like fish sauce or fruit-based options. The research, conducted from May to October 2010, deployed bait traps in dry evergreen and secondary forests, capturing a total of 3,038 individuals across 79 species. Significant differences were observed in species diversity and abundance based on bait type, month, and forest type (p<0.01). The most prevalent species included Euploea core, Euploea radamanthus, and Caleta roxus, among others. These findings highlight the potential of fermented fish-pineapple mixtures for butterfly monitoring in tropical ecosystems.

Bat Activity and Use of Hibernacula in Wood Buffalo National Park, Alberta

Wood Buffalo National Park — 2014 — WHEDAF11A4C90

Research in Wood Buffalo National Park reveals significant insights into bat species diversity and seasonal activity, particularly around hibernacula. Over three years of acoustic monitoring and mist netting, scientists documented the presence of Little Brown Myotis (Myotis lucifugus), Northern Myotis (Myotis septentrionalis), and Big Brown Bats (Eptesicus fuscus) in the park's cave hibernaculum. Additionally, migratory species such as Hoary Bats (Lasiurus cinereus) and Eastern Red Bats (Lasiurus borealis) were identified through echolocation recordings, with Hoary Bats present from mid-May to early October and Eastern Red Bats from mid-June to early August. Resident bat activity peaked between mid-June and early September. The study also recorded cave temperatures during hibernation, providing a first approximation of species diversity and seasonal patterns in this northern Canadian ecosystem.

Bats of Nahanni National Park Reserve and Surrounding Areas, Northwest Territories

Nahanni National Park — 2014 — WHEE76422B287

A groundbreaking bat survey in Nahanni National Park Reserve, Northwest Territories (NWT), Canada, significantly expands the known range of several bat species. Researchers confirmed the presence of seven bat species, including five not previously recorded in the region: Long-eared Myotis, Long-legged Myotis, Big Brown Bat, Hoary Bat, and Eastern Red Bat. Notably, this study documents the most northerly records (61°N) for Long-eared Myotis and Long-legged Myotis in North America, extending their range approximately 300 km northward. The survey employed mistnets and AnaBat ultrasound detectors over 23 nights, capturing four species and acoustically detecting three others. While reproduction was confirmed only in Little Brown Myotis and Northern Myotis, the findings highlight the region's ecological significance as a potential northern range limit for multiple bat species.

Bibliographic Catalogue of the Marine Benthic Algae in the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (Northwestern Hawaiian Islands)

Papahānaumokuākea — 2014 — WHEB7D8DC097E

A comprehensive catalogue of marine benthic algae in the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM) reveals 335 species across ten Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, atolls, and shoals. The study organizes these species into four phyla—Cyanobacteria, Rhodophyta, Ochrophyta, and Chlorophyta—and provides detailed taxonomic listings with reference citations for each location. Notably, French Frigate Shoals hosts the highest diversity (173 species), while Nihoa Island has the lowest (33). The catalogue includes a chronological island-reference index and brief notes on select species, offering a foundational resource for algal research in this UNESCO-listed marine region.

Bioclimatic housing design to desert architecture: A case study of Ghadames, Libya

Old Town of Ghadamès — 2014 — WHE79DAC488A7

A study of Ghadames, Libya, reveals that while modern housing developments fail to meet local residents' satisfaction with indoor environmental conditions and energy consumption, traditional architecture excels in providing thermal comfort even at high indoor temperatures (up to 32°C). Despite subjective reports of satisfaction from occupants of old buildings, objective measurements using the predicted mean vote (PMV) indicated discomfort. The research highlights a disconnect between modern housing design and the sociocultural needs of the local community, emphasizing the importance of bioclimatic principles in desert architecture. Field surveys, including thermal environment assessments and interviews, were conducted to gather both subjective and objective data, alongside the creation of a 3D digital model to analyze building dynamics.

Biomass and Carbon in Non-Woody Vegetation, Dead Wood and Litter in Iguaçu National Park

Iguaçu National Park — 2014 — WHEA364849D12

Iguazu National Park (INP) stores significant carbon in its non-woody vegetation, dead wood, and litter. A 2004 study found that the Seasonal Semideciduous Forest (FES) contributes 8.29 tC/ha (30.41 tCO₂e/ha), while the Araucaria Forest (AF) holds 4.94 tC/ha (18.12 tCO₂e/ha). Carbon stocks varied by material type, with litter and large-diameter dead wood (WD4) accounting for the highest carbon fractions (36.2–42.1%). While no significant differences in carbon content were found between forest types, statistically significant variations existed among different carbon pools (p < 0.05). These findings underscore the importance of including non-woody biomass and dead wood in forest carbon assessments to accurately estimate total ecosystem carbon stocks.

Breeding Biology of Squacco Herons ( Ardeola ralloides ) in Northern Tunisia

Ichkeul National Park — 2014 — WHE3C3C07E1F3

Squacco Herons (Ardeola ralloides) in Ichkeul National Park and Lebna Dam, Tunisia, exhibit high reproductive success but face variability between years. The study found mean clutch sizes of 4.51 eggs per nest, with hatching success at 3.67 and fledging success at 3.06 young per nest. Notably, later-hatched chicks (rank four) showed lower body condition indices (BCI) and growth rates compared to earlier ones, highlighting potential challenges for survival. Nest characteristics like height and diameter did not influence reproductive parameters. The research underscores the need for stricter protection measures at Lebna Dam due to its accessibility risks, emphasizing the importance of controlled site management in Tunisian wetlands.