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Multidisciplinary analysis of combined flow-like mass movements in a catchment of Southern Italy

Costiera Amalfitana — 2019 — WHE661AAC0569

A multidisciplinary analysis of the 2010 flow-like mass movements in Atrani, Costiera Amalfitana (Amalfi Coast, southern Italy), revealed how a relatively small hyperconcentrated flow combined with a water flood to create an abnormal event that rapidly invaded the urban area. This study highlights the dynamic interaction between different types of flows—debris flows, hyperconcentrated flows, and flash floods—and their potential for sudden volume increases due to erosion or slope instabilities triggered by heavy rainfall. The research integrated field surveys, geological analysis, video footage, and numerical modeling to reconstruct the events, demonstrating the effectiveness of such an approach in understanding complex geohazards. This insight is crucial for improving risk analysis and zoning strategies in vulnerable coastal catchments.

Multilingualism and mixed language in the mines of Potosí (Bolivia)

City of Potosí — 2019 — WHE50A9D3FB33

A specialized mining lexicon emerged in Potosí, Bolivia, during its colonial heyday (c. 1610), blending Spanish, Quechua, and Aymara elements to such an extent that the first dedicated vocabulary was documented in 1610. This unique language served as a bridge between free indigenous workers—likely speaking a mix of Spanish and Quechua—and forced laborers (mitayos), possibly communicating in a combination of Aymara and Quechua. The study, employing historical sociolinguistics, reveals how linguistic contact and multilingualism shaped this distinct mining language, contributing to Potosí's status as one of the largest cities in the Western hemisphere at the time.

Multiple volcanic eruption episodes in the highlands of Mt. Halla (Hallasan), Jeju Island, Korea: 40Ar/39Ar ages of lava flows

Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes — 2019 — WHE843C56D383

A new timeline of volcanic activity on Jeju Island's Mt. Halla (Hallasan) reveals two distinct eruption phases spanning approximately 170,000 years, with the last major eruptions occurring between 20,000 and 14,000 years ago. Using ⁴⁰Ar/³⁹Ar dating on 20 lava samples, researchers identified reliable ages from plagioclase and alkali feldspar crystals, challenging previous stratigraphic interpretations. The youngest dated flows (17.7±2.7 ka and 16.2±3.9 ka) suggest the final eruptions originated from Hallasan's summit caldera, flowing eastward. This study underscores the need for revised stratigraphic frameworks and deeper investigations, including core drilling, to fully understand Jeju Island's volcanic history.

Multiscale seasonal factors drive the size of winter monarch colonies

Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve — 2019 — WHE440D1BFE8D

A significant decline of 84% in eastern North American monarch butterfly populations on Mexican wintering grounds since 1996 contrasts with stable population indices from northern breeding areas, suggesting autumn migration as a critical bottleneck. This study reveals that multiscale factors—including higher summer abundance on breeding grounds, greener autumns indicating increased nectar availability, and local dense forest cover within the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve—positively influence winter colony sizes. Unlike previously assumed, disease rates did not affect colony sizes. The research highlights the importance of evaluating migratory conditions to understand long-term population trends, emphasizing the vulnerability of monarchs under climate change due to diminished floral resources and winter habitat availability.

Multisensorialidad en la Alhambra

Alhambra, Generalife and Albayzín, Granada — 2019 — WHEE1B168781C

A groundbreaking method for multisensory guided tours, tailored for blind and low-vision individuals (CBV), has been developed and tested at the Alhambra's Bab Al-Saria art exhibition. This approach integrates audiodescriptions with tactile exploration of 3D replicas and relief images, enhancing accessibility without compromising the immersive experience. The study demonstrates that multisensory engagement significantly improves comprehension and emotional connection to historical and artistic content for CBV visitors. By bridging sensory gaps through carefully crafted verbal instructions and tactile models, this research sets a new standard for inclusive museum experiences at UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Multispectral remote sensing for post‐dictive analysis of archaeological remains. A case study from Bronte (Sicily)

Mount Etna — 2019 — WHE586C5CA7F6

A post-dictive analysis using WorldView-2 (WV-2) multispectral imagery demonstrates the potential of remote sensing for detecting archaeological features in the volcanic landscape of Bronte, Sicily. The study, conducted within UNESCO's Etna Park, highlights the effectiveness of specific vegetation indices—particularly the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Simple Ratio Index (SRI)—in identifying subsurface structures despite challenges posed by geology and spontaneous vegetation. By analyzing pre-excavation imagery from 2015, researchers identified the Near-Infrared 1 (NIR_1) and Red Edge bands as most useful for archaeological investigations. The study emphasizes the feasibility of low-cost, open-source software (FOSS) approaches in landscape archaeology, offering a scalable method for future research.

Muon Radiography Method for Non-Invasive Probing an Archaeological Site in the Naryn-Kala Citadel

Citadel, Ancient City and Fortress Buildings of Derbent — 2019 — WHE20CBE45167

Muon radiography emerges as a powerful, non-invasive tool for probing the hidden structures of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. A two-month experiment at Derbent’s Naryn-Kala Citadel, using nuclear emulsion detectors buried 10 meters underground, demonstrated the method’s potential to reconstruct internal archaeological features with unprecedented resolution. By leveraging muon radiography combined with advanced image analysis, researchers achieved a high-resolution 3D reconstruction of subsurface structures, offering a novel approach for studying inaccessible or buried heritage sites without physical intrusion.

Museet for Søfart, Elsinore, Denmark.

Kronborg Castle — 2019 — WHE0B3DDD3C50

The Maritime Museum of Denmark, relocated to Elsinore's harbor front in 2013, strategically positioned maritime history as both a reflection of Danish cultural heritage and a forward-looking institution. Designed by Bjarke Ingels, the museum's new location—just steps from Kronborg Castle—amplified its role as a national symbol, embedding the shipping industry into Denmark's broader historical narrative. This architectural and curatorial endeavor, funded by a consortium of Danish foundations, received international acclaim for its innovative design and its ability to convey the relevance of maritime activities to contemporary society. The study highlights how such institutions can serve dual purposes: preserving historical narratives while simultaneously legitimizing and promoting an entire industry.

Museology and Monument Protection in the Discourse of French National Identity

Palace and Park of Fontainebleau — 2019 — WHE8A1B08937E

The discourse of French national identity is deeply intertwined with the historical practice of collecting and preserving ancient antiquities, particularly during the Renaissance. This study reveals that while such collections initially served as decorative elements in royal palaces like Fontainebleau, Saint-Cloud, and Versailles, they also symbolized social status and cultural sophistication. The transition from mere decoration to systematic preservation began with legislative measures during the French Revolution, notably the 1790 decree by the National Constituent Assembly, which prohibited the destruction of immovable and movable works of art in former royal estates. This legal framework marked a pivotal shift towards the protection of cultural heritage, reflecting broader societal values and the evolving role of monuments in shaping national identity.

Music and Musicians in Renaissance Rome and Other Courts

Mantua and Sabbioneta — 2019 — WHE8818243633

A comprehensive analysis of musical institutions in 15th and 16th century Italy, particularly focusing on the papal choir, reveals intricate social and cultural dynamics. The study highlights the role of prominent figures such as Guglielmo Gonzaga and Lorenzo de’ Medici as patrons of music, while also exploring themes like performance practices and societal norms, including homosexuality in late sixteenth-century Italy. Drawing extensively from archival materials, this research provides a nuanced understanding of musical life during the Renaissance, extending its insights to other European courts, including Mantua (Mantova), Florence, and France.

Music in the urban Amazon: a historical ethnography of the Manaus opera house

Amazonia Theaters — 2019 — WHE37DBE8CB4A

The Teatro Amazonas, an iconic opera house in Manaus, Brazil, has evolved from an ephemeral status symbol to a catalyst for diverse local musics and negotiations of Amazonian geographies. This historical ethnography challenges the narrative of the Amazon as static, instead illustrating its dynamic relationship with human culture over time. The study examines key moments from 1850 to 2017, revealing how opera in Amazonia transitioned from a symbol of progress to a stimulus for local musical traditions. By analyzing the Teatro's archive and its urban and rainforest surroundings, the research demonstrates its role as a potent site for redefining Amazonian identities amidst global conservation discourse.

Música para rezos y liturgias de la Semana Santa de los archivos misionales en Bolivia

Jesuit Missions of the Chiquitos — 2019 — WHEDB5BC3E575

Research demonstrates that the music used in Holy Week celebrations during the 18th-century Jesuit missions of Chiquitos, Bolivia, can be reconstructed based on archival texts and musical collections. The study analyzes written accounts by Jesuit missionaries and superiors, detailing formal and popular liturgies from Passion Sunday to Holy Saturday. By cross-referencing these texts with surviving music collections from the missions, the research suggests that a comprehensive reconstruction of the ceremonial soundscapes is feasible. This finding opens avenues for further exploration, potentially deepening our understanding of the cultural and musical practices of the era.

Muzyka podczas papieskich pielgrzymek w archidiecezji krakowskiej w latach 1997–2016

Kalwaria Zebrzydowska: the Mannerist Architectural and Park Landscape Complex and Pilgrimage Park — 2019 — WHEA813291611

Papal pilgrimages to the Cracow Archdiocese, particularly those involving John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Pope Francis between 1997 and 2016, were marked by meticulously prepared musical elements that enriched both liturgical and non-liturgical events. This study reveals that music during these visits was not merely a supplementary component but an integral part of the solemnity, involving specialized music committees, commissioned composers, performing artists (including choirs, orchestras, and soloists), and active participation from the faithful. The research focuses on 10 papal visits since 1997, analyzing the musical compositions, their creators, and the broader context in which they were performed. It highlights the significance of music as a unifying element during these high-profile religious events, contributing to both spiritual and cultural experiences.

My Country and My People and Sydney Opera House: The missing link

Sydney Opera House — 2019 — WHEC93A118FB4

A new study reveals that Jørn Utzon's architectural philosophy, particularly his design of the Sydney Opera House, was profoundly influenced by Chinese writer Lin Yutang's work 'My Country and My People' (1935). The research demonstrates how Lin's conceptualization of Chinese art and architecture shaped Utzon's early manifestoes and design projects, ultimately guiding the principles behind the Opera House. Despite Utzon's forced resignation in 1966, leaving the project unfinished, his designs retained a lasting imprint of Lin Yutang's aesthetics, evident in calligraphy, painting, and architecture. The study systematically documents this understudied relationship, offering fresh insights into one of the world's most iconic architectural masterpieces.

Myths and Legends related to the Origin and Construction of Surya Deula, Konark

Sun Temple, Konârak — 2019 — WHEAC9BF0CAEF

Myths and legends surrounding the Sun Temple at Konârak, Orissa, India, reveal significant cultural and historical insights into its origin and construction. The study highlights a notable connection between solar worship and leprosy treatment, linking three prominent figures—Samba (son of Lord Krishna), Mayur (poet of King Harshavardhana), and Narasingha-I (Ganga king)—who were believed to suffer from the disease. These legends, drawn from Puranas and contemporary manuscripts, provide a deeper understanding of the temple's significance in both mythological and historical contexts. The research approach involves analyzing literary evidence to reconstruct the narrative of the temple's construction, offering a unique perspective on its cultural and religious importance.

Myxomycete biodiversity revealed in the Namib desert

Namib Sand Sea — 2019 — WHE88BC500673

A survey of myxomycetes (plasmodial slime molds) in the Namib Desert, one of the world's oldest deserts, revealed eight previously undocumented species for Africa, including two recently described from South America. This discovery underscores the unexpected biodiversity of desert microbiota, with three potential new species identified but not formally described due to insufficient material. The study highlights similarities between the Namib Sand Sea and coastal Peruvian deserts, suggesting a disjunct distribution pattern and area-specific adaptations among these microorganisms. These findings confirm that arid environments harbor notable myxomycete diversity, contributing to our understanding of their global distribution and ecological roles.

Nano Particles and Nano Composites for Preservation of Historic Marble Minbars with Application on the Minber of Soliman Pasha Al-Khadim Mosque in Salah El-Din Citadel in Cairo, Egypt

Historic Cairo — 2019 — WHEBF3182382D

A novel approach using nano particles and composites has shown promise for the preservation of historic marble minbars, particularly in the restoration of the minbar from Soliman Pasha Al-Khadim Mosque in Cairo's Salah El-Din Citadel. The study identified that a combination of 2% nano lime concentration with Wacker OH 100 at 5% concentration significantly enhances the structural integrity and durability of these architectural elements. This finding is crucial for addressing the degradation caused by human intervention and previous restoration efforts, which have compromised the minbar's historical and architectural value. The research employed advanced analytical techniques such as ultra-sonic pulse method testing, uniaxial compression tests, and microstructural analysis using SEM-EDS, TEM, polarizing light microscopy, XRD, and XRF to assess the properties of the materials involved. These methods provided a comprehensive understanding of the minbar's composition and the effectiveness of the proposed nano treatments.

Narrations et appropriations dans le centre historique de Naples : des constructions identitaires situées

Historic Centre of Naples — 2019 — WHECCEBB51817

Research reveals that the historic center of Naples, particularly the Quartieri Spagnoli, is not monolithically subaltern but instead exhibits multiple situated identities and socio-spatial dynamics. This challenges the dominant narrative that portrays urban underclass practices as symbols of decay. By analyzing the practices, representations, and narrations of locally termed 'plebe' inhabitants alongside two specific urban situations, the study contrasts the discourse of dominant groups with grassroots urban production. The findings underscore a fragmented and composite identity construction within the historic center, offering a nuanced perspective on subaltern conditions in urban spaces.

Narratives of Ethnic and Political Conflict in Burundian Sites of Persuasion

Memorial sites of the Genocide: Nyamata, Murambi, Gisozi and Bisesero — 2019 — WHE455C7AB54E

Burundian memorial sites, including Nyamata, Murambi, Gisozi, and Bisesero, reflect local partisan narratives rather than a unified national historical memory of ethnic violence. Unlike Rwanda, these sites lack international positioning for tourism and instead serve as tools of persuasion aligned with the ruling party's perspective at the time of their construction. The study reveals that Burundian government-supported memorials have not consistently advocated for reconciliation or national remembrance but have been shaped by contradictory local efforts to commemorate genocide and ethnic conflict, primarily for a domestic audience in this densely populated country.

National uniqueness and decoration of the gùgōng, the imperial (hang da) palace in beijing

Imperial Palaces of the Ming and Qing Dynasties in Beijing and Shenyang — 2019 — WHE4F419B8FF2

Traditional Chinese architecture, particularly evident in the Imperial Palace (Gùgōng) of Beijing, is characterized by symbolic decoration and polychromy that reflect social hierarchy, divine imperial power, and philosophical foundations. The study identifies key concepts such as 'tradition' (Chuan tong), 'architecture' (Jian zhu), and specific decorative elements like the dragon and lotus, which hold symbolic meanings rooted in Daoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism. A comparative analysis of polychromy reveals a shift from simple compositions in ancient times to more complex and diverse designs during the Ming Dynasty, establishing a standard for both religious and secular decor concentrated in the Gùgōng complex. The palace's design, including its grouping of halls into threes (symbolizing the trigram 'Cyan' for Sky), underscores its role as a microcosm of imperial authority and philosophical thought.