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Showing 1541 – 1560 of 15962 publications

An architectural permanence to fight against energy poverty

Nord-Pas de Calais Mining Basin — 2025 — WHED3324C9EDE

A groundbreaking approach to retrofitting social housing in the Nord-Pas de Calais Mining Basin demonstrates that inhabitant participation can significantly enhance energy efficiency and combat energy poverty. The study, conducted over three years with Maisons & Cités, reveals that involving residents from the project's inception leads to more tailored and effective retrofit strategies, addressing behavior-driven energy consumption—responsible for half of a home's total usage. This participatory method not only improves energy outcomes but also fosters democratic design practices and empowers local communities. The research challenges traditional power dynamics by embedding architects permanently in project sites, acting as 'local architects' to bridge communication gaps between residents and decision-makers. This innovative model, tested in the Cité d’Orient estate, offers a scalable solution for sustainable urban development.

An Assessment of Shibam Historical City's Urban Identity

Old Walled City of Shibam — 2025 — WHED1FBADA55C

Shibam's historical cityscape, renowned for its ancient multi-story mud-brick skyscrapers, stands as a model of cultural memory and sustainable urban identity. Research reveals that preserving Shibam’s original structure while integrating traditional construction with modern techniques can enhance resilience without compromising authenticity. This approach offers a blueprint for historic cities to balance heritage conservation with contemporary sustainability needs. The study analyzed Shibam's architectural and social elements through literature review, emphasizing its unique role as both a cultural symbol and a practical example of sustainable urban development.

An Attempt at Age Estimation of the Ryukyu Long-Furred Rat (Diplothrix legata) Using Tooth Wear Analysis: First Report on the Difference in Molar Wear Patterns between Rats in Okinawajima and Amami-Oshima Islands

Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island — 2025 — WHEB908A86171

Researchers found that molar wear patterns differ significantly between Ryukyu Long-Furred Rats (Diplothrix legata) on Okinawa Island and Amami-Oshima Island, complicating age estimation methods. By analyzing 106 skulls—87 from Okinawa and 19 from Amami—the study identified seven distinct stages of molar wear, with Stage I (minimal wear) only observed in Okinawa rats, suggesting these were recently weaned individuals under 50 mm in skull length. However, Amami rats showed inconsistent relationships between fur growth, skull size, and tooth wear, indicating that age estimation based on molar wear may not apply uniformly across islands. The findings highlight the need for island-specific approaches to studying this endangered species' lifespan and ecology.

An eastern Congolian endemic, or widespread but secretive? New data on the recently described Afrixalus lacustris (Anura, Hyperoliidae) from the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Salonga National Park — 2025 — WHE0A85E798ED

New research reveals that the Great Lakes spiny reed frog (Afrixalus lacustris), previously thought to be endemic to the Albertine Rift mountains, has a broader range extending westward into lowland rainforests of the Northeastern and Central Congolian Lowlands. DNA barcoding and phylogeographic analysis indicate that A. lacustris likely diversified in isolated forest refugia during the Middle Pleistocene, while its sister species, A. phantasma, thrived in montane forests. The study also highlights distinct differences in oviposition behavior between A. lacustris and related species, such as laying eggs in folded leaves—a trait not previously documented for this frog.

An efficient low-cost method for sampling floral visitors on down-facing flowers

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park — 2025 — WHE2090458E0E

A novel, low-cost method for sampling floral visitors in down-facing flowers has been successfully developed and tested. The Entomological Rod method, utilizing a light stem with a 50 ml Falcon tube attached, enables direct capture of insects without the need for pruning or sudden movements. This approach was applied to Clusia grandiflora (Clusiaceae) in Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil, demonstrating its efficiency and ease of use in accessing difficult-to-reach flowers. The method offers a practical solution for studying pollinator interactions with pendent flowers, which are known for their protective mechanisms against resource loss.

An Egyptian Mummified Crocodile from the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra National Preserve (Ukraine): Archaeological and Morphological Considerations

Kyiv: Saint-Sophia Cathedral and Related Monastic Buildings, Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra — 2025 — WHE2AB17ED784

A unique Egyptian mummified crocodile from the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra National Preserve, dated to the Ptolemaic Period (332–30 BC), reveals new insights into ancient sacrificial practices and species identification challenges. Radiocarbon dating and chemical analysis confirmed its age, while morphological examination of the external mandibular fenestra suggested it may belong to the West African crocodile (Crocodylus suchus), though genetic confirmation is needed. The study also identified evidence of a precise, concealed stab wound, indicating deliberate sacrificial killing—a practice more complex than previously recognized. This research contributes to our understanding of animal mummification in ancient Egypt and highlights the need for further species identification studies.

An ethnobotanical insight into the healing traditions as strategies for forest conservation of indigenous ethnic communities in the West Sikkim district of the Sikkim Himalayas, India

Khangchendzonga National Park — 2025 — WHED2787B523B

Indigenous communities in West Sikkim, home to the UNESCO-listed Khangchendzonga National Park, rely on a rich repository of 70 medicinal plant species for treating 31 health conditions. Sacred groves, culturally protected forest patches, play a pivotal role in conserving these plants while reinforcing community-led biodiversity stewardship. The study, conducted through interviews with 218 informants, revealed that herbs dominate traditional remedies, with roots being the most frequently used plant part and decoction the preferred preparation method. Notably, Cordyceps sinensis showed the highest use value (0.96) and Relative Frequency of Citation (1), highlighting its significance in local remedies. The research underscores the importance of preserving traditional medicine and conservation practices like sacred groves to protect cultural heritage and advance future drug discovery.

An Example of the Transition to Sustainable Mobility in the Austrian City of Graz

City of Graz – Historic Centre and Schloss Eggenberg — 2025 — WHE73CD40C2C3

Graz, Austria, stands out as a replicable model for sustainable mobility within the EU, demonstrating significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions through its 'eco-transformation' strategy. The city's focus on 'soft mobility'—walking, cycling, and public transit—has proven effective, with quantitative analysis showing that environmental and temporal variables influence cycling behavior. This study highlights Graz as a leading example of how urban areas can transition to sustainable transportation, aligning with broader EU climate goals and offering insights for other cities aiming to mitigate the ecological impacts of fossil-fueled mobility.

An Exploratory Study for Hahoe Village Tourism Storytelling using the Hahoe Byeolsingut Talnori

Historic Villages of Korea: Hahoe and Yangdong — 2025 — WHE01F8AF551C

Researchers have identified six key story resources from Hahoe Village, including the Hahoe Byeolsingut Talnori (traditional mask dance), Hahoe World Mask Museum, and legendary figures like Hur Do-ryeong, which can transform tourism experiences into thematic journeys. By categorizing these elements into interactive 'courtyards'—such as Playground Courtyard, Legend Courtyard, and Gentry Courtyard—the study demonstrates how storytelling can enhance visitor engagement and position Hahoe Village as a thematic tourism destination. The approach involved literature reviews, field observations of performances, and content analysis, with peer validation ensuring rigor.

An ichthyological borderland: The fishfauna of Nyungwe National Park and surroundings (Rwanda, East Africa)

Nyungwe National Park — 2025 — WHE8BFAD04F21

A recent expedition to Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, revealed the presence of 13 fish species within the park and its buffer zones, challenging previous assumptions that cold river temperatures precluded fish diversity. The study, conducted in 2022, found limited fish diversity within the park proper—primarily two putative species of Amphilius cf. kivuensis—but higher diversity in lower-altitude rivers of the buffer zone, including a clariid species and two Enteromius species. Near the mouth of the Kamiranzovu River, 11 species were recorded, four of which were non-native, including guppy (Poecilia reticulata), Astatotilapia burtoni, blue-spotted tilapia (Oreochromis leucosticus), and Egyptian mouth-brooder (Pseudocrenilabrus multicolor). The research highlights Nyungwe's role as an ichthyological borderland, with distinct species distributions influenced by altitude and watershed dynamics.

An Integrated Water System: The Cultural Landscape of Honghe Hani Rice Terraces

Cultural Landscape of Honghe Hani Rice Terraces — 2025 — WHE5AB69A1511

The Cultural Landscape of Honghe Hani Rice Terraces, inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2013, serves as a model for sustainable development by integrating traditional farming, irrigation, and water management practices with the spiritual relationship of the Hani people to nature. This landscape exemplifies a comprehensive water management system that aligns with multiple United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation), SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities), SDG 12 (responsible consumption and production), and SDG 13 (climate action). The study highlights the resilience of this system in traditional farming practices, offering insights into conserving and recreating holistic water systems amid climate change challenges such as flooding and drought. It underscores the importance of safeguarding this cultural landscape against socioeconomic pressures while maintaining its ecological and cultural integrity.

An Investigative Study of the Theories Surrounding the Standing Buddha Statue at the Polonnaruwa Rock Temple

Ancient City of Polonnaruwa — 2025 — WHEEB9E9018AF

The standing Buddha statue at Polonnaruwa Rock Temple, Sri Lanka, embodies multiple symbolic interpretations rooted in Buddhist iconography. Research reveals that the statue's unique mudra—variously identified as Paradukkha Dukkhitha, Animisa Lochana, Swastika, or Avadhana—represents pivotal moments in Buddha's life, including the second week of his enlightenment and the Great Passing Away (Parinirvana). Additionally, its posture suggests a compassionate gaze toward beings, while theories propose it may depict Ananda Thero. The study analyzes these interpretations through secondary sources, leveraging Buddhist literature to explore their historical and symbolic significance. This approach highlights the statue's cultural and religious importance during the Polonnaruwa period (post-Anuradhapura), cementing its status as a peak in Sri Lankan Buddha statue art.

An Organic Food Web Exists within the Bioapatite Inorganic Bone Surfaces of Cretaceous Dinosaurs Edmontosaurus, Triceratops and Nanotyrannus

Dinosaur Provincial Park — 2025 — WHE92EA5A7BA4

A vibrant organic food web exists within the bioapatite inorganic bone surfaces of Cretaceous dinosaurs, including Edmontosaurus, Triceratops, and Nanotyrannus. This discovery challenges the traditional view that dinosaur bones are permineralized, revealing instead the presence of soft tissues, bacteria, fungi, and nematodes. The study found that these microbial communities metabolize endogenous organics within the bone, attracting fungivorous and bacterivorous nematodes. Additionally, evidence of insect activity, such as beetle cadavers and molts, was uncovered, suggesting a complex network of feeding relationships. The research used decalcification techniques to expose these soft tissues and microorganisms, providing substantial evidence for an active food web within dinosaur bones.

Análisis de la diversidad y nuevos registros de equinodermos (Echinodermata) para el Parque Nacional Revillagigedo, México

Archipiélago de Revillagigedo — 2025 — WHED651A15275

A comprehensive analysis of echinoderm diversity in the UNESCO-listed Revillagigedo Archipelago, Mexico, reveals 94 species, including five new records: two starfish (Heliaster kubiniji and Astrometis sertulifera) and three brittle stars (Ophiolepis variegata, Ophiopsila californica, and Ophiothela mirabilis). The study, conducted across four volcanic islands, found Ophiuroidea to be the most species-rich class with 31 species, followed by Asteroidea, Echinoidea, and Holothuroidea, each with 21 species. Clarión and Socorro Islands exhibited the highest species richness (60 and 58 species, respectively), while San Benedicto and Roca Partida may have underreported diversity due to limited sampling efforts. The research employed ecological analyses, including species richness, similarity, and taxonomic distinctiveness, to assess biodiversity patterns in this pristine tropical ecosystem.

Analysing debris flow impact in Upper Svaneti, Georgia: investigating triggering factors and runout dynamics

Upper Svaneti — 2025 — WHE7B0B9A9B7D

A critical rainfall threshold of over 7 days has been identified as sufficient to trigger debris flow failures in the deposition zones of Upper Svaneti, Georgia. This finding, derived from a combination of numerical modeling and high-resolution UAV data analysis, highlights the region's vulnerability to increasing extreme weather events. The study employed TRIGRS and RAMMS models to simulate slope instability and runout dynamics, respectively, using laboratory-tested soil samples and historical rainfall records for validation. While the models accurately predicted detachment zones in a 2022 event, deposit heights were slightly underestimated, suggesting potential underestimation of hazard risks under moderate rainfall conditions if residual materials are remobilized. These insights provide actionable data for hazard mitigation strategies, early warning systems, and regional planning to address growing concerns in mountainous regions.

Analysis of a Cultural and Natural Destination: Wadi Rum (Jordan)

Wadi Rum Protected Area — 2025 — WHE88F6621692

Wadi Rum, Jordan's UNESCO-listed natural reserve, stands out as a significant cultural and economic hub due to its tourism-driven growth. The region's unique geological features and historical importance have made it a global attraction, notably inspiring films like 'Lawrence of Arabia' and 'Mars.' Tourism in Wadi Rum began post-1946, with UNESCO recognition further boosting its profile. The study highlights the sector's crucial role in employment generation while noting the profound impact of regional political instability on tourism dynamics. This analysis underscores Wadi Rum's dual significance as a natural wonder and a cultural landmark, offering insights into sustainable tourism strategies for similar destinations.

Analysis of disaster-affected population mobility through grid-aggregated mobile location data: The 2017 Jiuzhaigou earthquake, China

Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic and Historic Interest Area — 2025 — WHE0C99D3D712

A novel analysis of grid-aggregated mobile location data reveals distinct evacuation patterns following the 2017 Jiuzhaigou earthquake, despite China's privacy regulations limiting individual trajectory data. Using empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis, researchers identified two primary evacuation routes: one extending northwest from Chuanzhusi Town and another southeast through Shuanghe Town. The study found a continuous outflow of population from the Jiuzhaigou Valley between midnight and 20:00, with significant increases in mobile activity along key roads during early morning hours (midnight to 10:00). Unlike traditional clustering methods, EOF analysis effectively pinpointed impact zones and inferred evacuation directions without relying on individual trajectory data. This approach demonstrates the potential of grid-based mobile data for disaster research, offering critical insights into population mobility during crises.

Analysis of Domestic Media Reports Related to Andong Tourism Using Bigkinds

Historic Villages of Korea: Hahoe and Yangdong — 2025 — WHE557877CA93

A big data analysis of domestic media reports revealed that interest in Andong tourism surged in 2024, with 3,574 mentions—nearly doubling previous years. High-frequency keywords included Gyeongsangbuk-do, Hahoe Village (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), COVID-19, Gyeongju, and public transportation, while entities like Andong City, the Director of Culture, Tourism and Sports Bureau, UNESCO, and Dosanseowon dominated discussions. Unlike prior studies, this research leveraged BigKinds' platform to systematically process 16,092 news articles (2020–2025), offering a novel framework for social science analysis. Future work could integrate article titles with content for deeper insights.

Analysis of Hairstyles Depicted in the Wall Paintings of the Deokheung-ri Ancient Tomb of Goguryeo

Complex of Koguryo Tombs — 2025 — WHEE81EF52F43

Advanced hair culture and aesthetic awareness characterized Goguryeo society, as revealed by an analysis of hairstyles depicted in the Deokheung-ri Ancient Tomb's wall paintings. The study identified distinct male and female hairstyles, with 131 male figures (including 31 from the ruling class) and 18 female figures, showing a significant gender disparity. Male hairstyles exhibited greater elaboration and social class differentiation, while female styles ranged from simple to intricate, reflecting refined sensibilities. Hair adornments likely served both cultural and status-distinguishing functions, though interpretation is limited by mural degradation and data inconsistencies.

Analysis of Pollutant Accumulation in the Invasive Bivalve Perna viridis: Current Status in the Colombian Caribbean 2020–2023

Port, Fortresses and Group of Monuments, Cartagena — 2025 — WHE75AA45E46F

Research confirms that the invasive bivalve Perna viridis (Asian green mussel) effectively biomonitors heavy metal pollution—including mercury, cadmium, lead, and selenium—in Cartagena Bay, Colombia. From 2020 to 2023, seasonal variations linked to climate phenomena like La Niña and El Niño significantly influenced pollutant accumulation in both soft tissue (ranging from trace to low microgram levels) and suspended particulate matter (up to 25.66 µg/g for lead). The study highlights P. viridis as a sensitive indicator of complex pollution scenarios, though its invasive presence poses ecological risks to native species. These findings underscore the need for continuous monitoring to mitigate environmental impacts in the Colombian Caribbean.