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Showing 16301 – 16320 of 30345 publications

Comparative study of the influence of traditional walls with different typologies and constructive techniques on the energy performance of the traditional dwellings of the Casbah of Algiers

Kasbah of Algiers — 2019 — WHEE36D9936F6

A comparative analysis of traditional wall typologies and construction techniques in the UNESCO-listed Casbah of Algiers reveals that specific compositions significantly enhance energy performance, aligning with principles of eco-design and climatic adaptability. The study identifies optimal material configurations to improve thermal inertia, offering a sustainable approach for preserving heritage structures while optimizing environmental resource use. Researchers employed simulations to evaluate thermal behavior across different wall types, providing actionable insights for ecological restoration and climate resilience in historic architecture.

Comparative study on the couplets of Korean and Chinese palaces : Focusing on Huwon in Changdeokgung Palace and Imperial Garden in the Forbidden City

Changdeokgung Palace Complex — 2019 — WHE0C09FA7DFE

A comparative analysis of the poetic couplets (柱聯詩) in Changdeokgung Palace's Huwon and Beijing's Forbidden City reveals both shared thematic elements and distinct cultural emphases. While both Korean and Chinese palace couplets depict daily life, faith, moral lessons, and scenic beauty, their thematic foci differ: Korea emphasizes the rarity of true friendship (知己), while China stresses blessings for the monarchy and people. Additionally, Korean couplets employ more seasonal imagery than their Chinese counterparts. The study also examines creation methods, noting that both traditions frequently cite 7-syllable regulated verse (7言律詩) but differ in citation volume and source diversity. This research bridges gaps in existing scholarship by providing new insights into the cultural and aesthetic dimensions of East Asian palace architecture.

Comparativo dos índices de competitividade dos destinos turísticos da Rota das Emoções

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park — 2019 — WHE89CDCE8458

Tourism destinations along the Route of Emotions, including Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, show lower competitiveness compared to Brazil's national average across most dimensions except environmental aspects and regional cooperation. This finding highlights a need for stronger public policies to enhance their economic potential. The study analyzed data from the National Tourism Competitiveness Index (2008–2015), comparing three key destinations—Barreirinhas, Parnaíba, and Jijoca de Jericoacoara—and their respective protected areas. Despite some regional strengths, overall competitiveness lags behind national benchmarks, signaling opportunities for targeted development interventions.

Comparing the community dependence on natural resources in Nyungwe National Park and the contribution of revenue sharing through integrated conservation and development projects

Nyungwe National Park — 2019 — WHEA41839F1FD

A revenue-sharing scheme aimed at balancing biodiversity conservation and community development around Nyungwe National Park (NNP) has shown limited success. Despite investments of approximately 1 billion Rwandan francs supporting 152 projects, local dependence on natural resources—such as stolen exotic tree species and mining—remains high, with 38.6% of respondents citing mining as a primary income source. The scheme failed to significantly reduce threats to biodiversity due to economic gaps that left many community members dissatisfied. Researchers recommend revising the revenue-sharing model to better address livelihood costs and create a true win-win scenario for conservation and development.

Comparison of Accuracy of UAV Aerials and Ground Measurements in the Curonian Spit Dunes

Curonian Spit — 2019 — WHEFC4E64B198

Aerial photogrammetry using UAVs offers a precise, non-invasive alternative to traditional ground measurements for monitoring sand traps in dunes. This study found that UAV-derived topographic data can accurately assess aeolian processes with minimal surface disruption, unlike conventional methods that harm the dune and are limited by infrequent sampling (twice yearly). By comparing UAV aerial images with ground-based granulometry, researchers demonstrated the potential for automated photogrammetric techniques to evaluate sand trap effectiveness at optimal intervals (every 2–3 months), advancing sustainable dune conservation on the Curonian Spit.

Comparison of image techniques for the detection of graffiti in the cloister of the monastery of San Millán de la Cogolla (Spain)

San Millán Yuso and Suso Monasteries — 2019 — WHE398A669761

A study comparing advanced image techniques revealed that graffiti in the cloister of San Millán de Yuso Monastery, previously thought lost after cleaning works, could still be detected using raking light photography, short-distance convergent photogrammetry with image enhancement, Reflectance Transformation Imaging (RTI), and structured-light scanning. These methods, applied in 2018, demonstrated varying effectiveness for identifying graffiti and assessing their conservation status, offering potential for combined use to preserve cultural heritage. The research highlights the importance of non-invasive imaging techniques in documenting at-risk artistic elements before irreversible damage occurs.

Comparison of Original and Modern Mortars at the Herculaneum Archaeological Site

Archaeological Areas of Pompei, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata — 2019 — WHE9BAFF58918

Significant differences between original Roman mortars and those used in twentieth-century restoration campaigns at the Herculaneum archaeological site have been identified, which may contribute to degradation processes. Roman mortars were found to contain coarser aggregates with a lower ratio of binder compared to modern mortars. This study employed petrography, thermal analysis, and X-ray fluorescence investigations to evaluate mineralogical, elemental, and thermal properties. The findings aim to enhance the compatibility of restoration mortars, thereby improving conservation efforts at UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Composition, Diversity and Functional Analysis of the Modern Microbiome of the Middle Triassic Cava Superiore Beds (Monte San Giorgio, Switzerland)

Monte San Giorgio — 2019 — WHE7CAF10C31C

A significant difference was found between microbial communities in bituminous shales and limestone strata from the Middle Triassic Cava Superiore Beds at Monte San Giorgio, Switzerland. The study used contig assembly, OTU clustering, and rarefaction analysis to reveal this distinction, highlighting the unique substrate provided by thermally immature organic compounds in these fossil-rich deposits. Metagenomic tools further showed that nutrient-rich media drastically reduced microbial diversity, favoring Proteobacteria and Firmicutes, while oligotrophic media sustained high diversity. The findings suggest that Monte San Giorgio's bituminous shales and enriched microbiomes are capable of degrading complex polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

Composted Municipal Green Waste Enhances Tree Success in Opencast Coal Land Reclamation in Wales

Blaenavon Industrial Landscape — 2019 — WHE2792181314

A controlled trial over 11 years found that composted municipal green waste (MGW) did not significantly improve tree height or diameter at breast height (DBH) but had contrasting effects on survival rates of three tree species in degraded opencast coal land near the UNESCO World Heritage site Blaenavon Industrial Landscape, Wales. While Common Alder showed the highest overall survival without MGW treatment, Silver Birch and European Larch exhibited significantly higher survival when treated with composted MGW (40% food waste and 60% garden waste). This suggests potential species-specific benefits of MGW in land reclamation efforts, despite its limited impact on growth metrics.

Compozițile Iconografice pe Tema Apocalipsei ale Pictorului Ștefan din Șișești

Wooden Churches of Maramureş — 2019 — WHE56185A3AD5

A rare analysis of apocalyptic iconography in UNESCO-listed Maramureș wooden churches reveals that Painter Ștefan from Șișești's static yet symbolically rich compositions—depicting the Holy Trinity, evangelists, and eschatological figures like the Lamb of God or Archangel Michael—served as visual prompts for community reflection on social harmony and posthumous destiny. Using Panofsky’s iconological method alongside ethnographic insights, the study argues that these works, though rooted in Post-Byzantine tradition, subtly humanize apocalyptic imagery under Baroque influence, signaling a collective preoccupation with societal cohesion and cosmic order. Their strategic placement—on nave vaults or altars—underscores their role as cultural signifiers, yet they remain underexplored despite offering key insights into 18th-century Maramureș aesthetics and values.

Comprehensive Evaluation of Satellite‐Based Precipitation at Sub‐Daily Time Scales Over a High‐Profile Watershed with Complex Terrain

Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic and Historic Interest Area — 2019 — WHE12F935588F

A comprehensive evaluation of satellite-based precipitation data from the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission reveals that its final hourly product offers reliable, research-level accuracy for complex mountainous terrains like Jiuzhaigou Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site prone to rainfall-triggered debris flows. The study found that while early and late GPM products showed moderate correlation with ground observations, the final product demonstrated superior performance, effectively reproducing diurnal precipitation cycles and capturing cumulative rainfall patterns. Despite challenges in reducing missing reports, the findings support the development of early-warning systems for geological disasters and provide insights for improving rainfall retrieval algorithms in similar high-altitude regions.

Computationally Mapping Spatial Properties of Chinese Historic Towns using Space Syntax

Kulangsu, a Historic International Settlement — 2019 — WHE3E2629C50D

A computational approach using space syntax has revealed distinct spatial patterns in Chinese historic towns, offering new quantitative insights into their geometric and social characteristics. The study analyzed four key features—axiality, curvature, intelligibility, and synergy—to map the urban form of Pingyao, Lijiang, Kulangsu, and Wuzhen. Unlike previous qualitative studies, this method provides measurable data that can support heritage conservation policies, town planning, and tourism development. The findings highlight how spatial properties influence cultural and social dynamics in historic settlements, bridging the gap between traditional analysis and modern computational techniques.

Conceptualizing Urban Experiences

Ancient Jericho/Tell es-Sultan — 2019 — WHE82C00A22FB

Archaeological research at Tell es-Sultan, ancient Jericho, reveals significant population growth and urban development during the Early Bronze Age I-III. By analyzing domestic contexts in Area F of the Italian-Palestinian excavations, the study provides a demographic snapshot of Jericho's transition from a village to a fortified city. This approach offers new insights into the settlement's population dynamics and urbanization processes, contributing to our understanding of early urban experiences in the region.

Conference report: Large Meteorite Impacts and Planetary Evolution VI

Vredefort Dome — 2019 — WHEA922B05CB2

The sixth Large Meteorite Impacts and Planetary Evolution Conference (LMI VI), held in Brasilia, Brazil, from September 30 to October 3, 2019, marked a significant milestone as the first dedicated impact cratering meeting on the South American continent. The conference brought together 90 participants from 21 countries, presenting 121 abstracts and featuring specialized workshops on advanced microtextural analysis and shock metamorphism recognition. Key discussions highlighted the importance of electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) in identifying shock effects and dating accessory minerals, while also emphasizing traditional optical microscopy techniques for impact studies. The conference also addressed the need for intercalibration of shock barometry methods and proposed a formal approach to the Meteoritical Society for updating the terrestrial cratering database. Post-conference excursions to Brazilian impact structures, including Araguainha Dome and Vargeão/Vista Alegre, provided field-based discussions on impact-induced deformation and its implications for planetary studies. LMI VI successfully fostered international collaborations and advanced impact research in South America, with plans for a proceedings volume continuing the tradition of previous conferences.

Confrontation of Powers in the Norman Kingdom of sicily

Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalú and Monreale — 2019 — WHE619B7BA4D2

The Norman conquest of Sicily in the eleventh century revealed that the primary power struggles within the kingdom were internal, pitting kings against their own Norman aristocracy—both Christian—rather than external forces like Muslims or other Christian factions. This study challenges conventional narratives by demonstrating that the strong Norman kingship was sustained through a delicate balance among aristocrats, cities, and bureaucrats. The research focuses on Palermo's palace, originally a Muslim castle repurposed as a royal residence, highlighting its symbolic and strategic importance in mediating these power dynamics. By analyzing historical records and political structures, the study underscores how central authority emerged not from conflict with outsiders but through intricate negotiations among elites.

Congruent patterns of functional diversity in saproxylic beetles and fungi across European beech forests

Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe — 2019 — WHE5D211CF314

European beech forests, unique temperate ecosystems shaped by post-glacial recolonization and human activity, exhibit congruent patterns of functional diversity in saproxylic beetles and fungi. This diversity decreases from south to north, with higher elevation and temperature, while increasing with precipitation. Structural equation modeling revealed that local functional diversity is driven by regional species pool dynamics, influenced by anthropogenic and biogeographical processes. To preserve these biodiversity hotspots, conservation efforts should target a broad spatial and climatic range across Europe, including primeval forests recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Conservation and Livelihood Conflict of Kaziranga National Park: A World Heritage Site of Assam, India

Kaziranga National Park — 2019 — WHE9BB7FE58D5

Kaziranga National Park, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, faces significant conservation and livelihood conflicts. The study highlights that while the park's unique biodiversity has been severely impacted by natural and human interventions, conservation efforts have disproportionately affected local communities who have historically relied on its resources. This has led to violent confrontations and a sense of exclusion from the conservation process. The research emphasizes the critical need for community participation in conservation strategies to align with the livelihood aspirations of local people, suggesting that integrating these perspectives could mitigate conflicts and foster sustainable coexistence between wildlife protection and human development.

Conservation Conjunctures: Contestation and Situated Consent in Peru's Huascarán National Park

Huascarán National Park — 2019 — WHE59092BA6F5

Conservation efforts in Peru's Huascarán National Park reveal a complex interplay of authority and power, shaped by historical sedimentation and situated consent. Despite the park's establishment without prior consultation with local peasant communities, post-facto attempts to include them have led to diverse responses, highlighting the problem of creating consent after defining landscape use. The study examines three distinct cases where the park has negotiated control over aesthetic and productive values, demonstrating that different modalities of governance coexist partially and simultaneously. This research underscores the importance of a grounded, historically specific analysis in processes framed as development, showing how conservation conjunctures continuously shape the relationship between parks and people.

Conservation Design for Traditional Agricultural Villages: A Case Study of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama in Japan

Historic Villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama — 2019 — WHE46871433F2

Traditional agricultural villages, such as Japan's Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, face rapid decline, threatening their cultural heritage. Conservation efforts must balance tangible preservation with intangible traditions while maintaining ecological integrity. This study highlights the critical role of resident engagement and re-establishing links between landscape elements—like gassho-style houses—and daily activities (e.g., agriculture) to sustain these villages. It emphasizes that regulations alone are insufficient; self-motivated residents and innovative design are essential for long-term viability. The research combines case study analysis with conservation design principles, offering a model for safeguarding similar heritage sites globally.

Conservation Governance and Management of Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) National Park, Buffer Zone, and Buffer Zone Community Forest User Groups in Pharak, Nepal

Sagarmatha National Park — 2019 — WHE6E2FA4C703

A groundbreaking study reveals that community-led conservation efforts, such as the Buffer Zone Community Forest User Groups (BZCFUG) and Buffer Zone Management Programs (BZMP), have significantly advanced biodiversity conservation, climate change adaptation, and sustainable forest product production in Sagarmatha National Park (SNP) and its buffer zones. The research demonstrates that devolution of decision-making rights to local communities, particularly indigenous Sherpa people, enhances governance and aligns with international conservation standards while respecting human rights. This synergy between scientific knowledge and cultural perspectives underscores the importance of free, prior, and informed consent in achieving conservation goals. The study employed qualitative methods, including field observations, interviews, and participatory meetings, conducted over two decades in Pharak and Khumbu regions.