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Showing 17521 – 17540 of 30345 publications

The Chronology of Insiza Cluster Khami‐Phase Sites in South‐Western Zimbabwe: Compositional Insights from pXRF and Raman Analysis of Excavated Exotic Glass Finds

Khami Ruins National Monument — 2019 — WHE456C1320AD

A study analyzing glass beads and fragments from Khami-phase sites (15th–19th centuries) in south-western Zimbabwe reveals distinct chronological patterns linked to occupational layers. Compositional analysis using pXRF and Raman spectroscopy identified Indo-Pacific beads dating to the 15th–17th centuries at Zinjanja and early Danamombe layers, correlating with Torwa occupation. European beads and a high-lime, low-alkali glass fragment from the 16th–19th centuries were found in later stratigraphic layers of Danamombe and Naletale, aligning with Rozvi occupation. Gomoremhiko contained a Mapungubwe–Zimbabwe bead series (13th–15th centuries), suggesting an earlier phase than other sites. All European beads exhibited soda-lime plant-ash glass with high alumina, consistent with Mediterranean production traditions.

The Chronology of Tombs in Daeseong-dong in the Age of The early Dojil Pottery

Gaya Tumuli — 2019 — WHEA790ED5298

A detailed chronological framework for the tombs of Daeseong-dong, associated with the Geumgwan Gaya kingdom, has been established, revealing six distinct burial periods spanning from the late 4th to early 5th century. This study leverages the analysis of Dojil pottery—particularly brazier-shaped stands and mounted dishes—found in large wooden chamber tombs, categorizing them into subtypes to trace evolutionary patterns in burial practices. Comparative analysis with imported prestige goods from China further refines absolute dating, pinpointing specific periods within a 75-year span. Notably, Tomb No. 39, dated to the second quarter of the 5th century (seventh period), showcases advanced pottery styles that likely influenced later burial vessels in neighboring regions, such as Dongri, Changnyeong.

The Cinco de Mayo: Death, Democracy, and Resistance in Mexican Museums

Historic Centre of Puebla — 2019 — WHE9638B98CA8

Government-led efforts to commemorate the Battle of Puebla on Cinco de Mayo have successfully framed historic suffering as a narrative of civic democracy and inclusion, reinforcing state authority while shaping national memory. The study examines how Puebla's investment in new museums and tourist infrastructure over five years transformed key heritage precincts into symbols of resistance and unity. By analyzing six central museums, the research reveals a strategic co-optation of multiple historical narratives to bolster government legitimacy, highlighting both the power and risks of state-curated memory in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The City as Power: Urban Space, Place, and National Identity ed. by Alexander C. Diener and Joshua Hagen

Valongo Wharf Archaeological Site — 2019 — WHED8DCC9FF83

Urban landscapes serve as powerful arenas for contesting national identity, citizenship, and belonging, acting as 'cultural geologies' that layer and erase narratives over time. This edited volume explores how cities like Berlin, Budapest, and Ulaanbaatar become contested spaces where memory, ideology, and countermovements shape inclusion and exclusion. Through case studies—including the preservation of Valongo Wharf in Rio de Janeiro—a palimpsest-like approach reveals how urban space delineates insiders from outsiders, while globalized ethnic and national identities mobilize citizenship ideals. The work integrates postcolonial perspectives, spatial analysis, and social movements to demonstrate urban environments' pivotal role in modern identity politics.

The city of one hundred souvenir shops: authenticity of souvenirs in Prague

Historic Centre of Prague — 2019 — WHEC6617FDFDD

A significant portion of souvenirs sold in Prague's historic center, particularly along the highly trafficked 'Royal Way,' are found to be 'falsely authentic' or 'geographically displaced.' This study reveals that while some locally specific souvenirs exist, the prevalence of banal, globalized products diminishes the overall quality and cultural significance of Prague's souvenir market. The research attributes this trend to the interplay between communist-era heritage and post-1990s transformation processes in tourism. To uncover these insights, the authors conducted a comprehensive analysis of shops and their offerings along the 'Royal Way,' supplemented by structured interviews with sellers and questionnaires targeting tourists. This approach provides a nuanced understanding of how historical and socio-economic factors shape the authenticity of souvenirs in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The City of Paphos in Cyprus in Roman Times

Paphos — 2019 — WHE52F6E22D94

Paphos, Cyprus, emerged as the island's dominant city during Roman times, primarily due to its association with the cult of Aphrodite Paphia, which held significant influence across the Mediterranean. The city was divided into Paleo Paphos, a religious center, and Neo Paphos, the administrative hub, connected by a 60-stadium Sacred Way. Key Roman structures, including the Agora, Odeon, Asklepieion, and a forum, were built in Neo Paphos, alongside notable urban villas with mosaic floors, such as the House of Theseus (residence of the proconsul). By the 4th-5th centuries, Paphos became a pivotal Christian center, hosting two large basilicas and serving as a stop on the apostles' Paul and Barnabas' route. Despite severe damage from mid-4th-century earthquakes that led to the capital's relocation to Salamis, Paphos remained a significant religious hub within the autokephalous Cypriot Church by 431 AD.

The Co-optation of Dissent in Hybrid States: Post-Soviet Graffiti in Moscow

Kremlin and Red Square, Moscow — 2019 — WHE3CFEB52998

Hybrid regimes, such as Russia under the Putin administration, co-opt dissent through subtle means rather than repression. A decade of fieldwork and expert interviews reveals how the state curated public art—particularly graffiti—in Moscow between 2012 and 2018. Critical artists were absorbed into state-controlled projects, while those unwilling to cooperate were marginalized. This shift replaced subversive, anonymous anti-regime graffiti with Kremlin-approved murals, especially in high-visibility areas like Red Square. The study demonstrates how hybrid leaders maintain control by manipulating visual dissent without triggering backlash, preserving legitimacy while eliminating independent voices.

The collapse of empire at Gordion in the transition from the Achaemenid to the Hellenistic world

Gordion — 2019 — WHEF67320A40F

Gordion, once a thriving capital of Phrygia under the Achaemenid Persian Empire (ca 550–333 BC), experienced profound socio-economic and cultural shifts following Alexander's conquest. The collapse of the Achaemenid administrative infrastructure led to a significant population decline, dramatic changes in architectural organization, and new trade and cultural interactions. Recent archaeological evaluations of Gordion’s architecture, finds, and landscape use reveal how the site adapted to these historical upheavals during the transition from the Achaemenid to the Hellenistic period.

The Comparison and Convergence of Communication between Chinese Traditional Dwellings and Korean Apartments - Focusing on the Characteristics of Fujian Tulou Community in China-

Fujian Tulou — 2019 — WHE40FCDE2192

Research reveals that the spatial design of Fujian Tulou, traditional Chinese communal dwellings, can enhance social interactions and community cohesion when applied to modern apartment complexes. The study identifies four key principles—holistic public space planning, boundary awareness fostering trust, environmental comfort for interaction, and equitable sharing of resources—that improve neighborly relationships in both historical and contemporary settings. By analyzing Fujian Tulou's communal living patterns, the research suggests practical design strategies to address social isolation and lack of engagement in modern apartments, aiming to increase residents' sense of belonging and mutual trust.

The complete chloroplast genome of Firmiana danxiaensis, an endangered species endemic to Danxia landform in Southern China

China Danxia — 2019 — WHE8E14E28E4F

Researchers have sequenced the complete chloroplast genome of Firmiana danxiaensis, an endangered tree species endemic to China's Danxia landform. The genome spans 161,253 base pairs (bp), featuring a large single-copy region (LSC) and a short single-copy region (SSC) separated by two inverted repeats (IRs). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that F. danxiaensis is closely related to F. simplex, with both species sharing a close relationship with F. pulcherrima. The genome exhibits distinct GC content variations across regions, with the IRs showing the highest GC percentage at 42.97%. This study provides valuable genetic insights into the evolutionary relationships of Firmiana species, which are crucial for conservation efforts in their unique Danxia habitat.

The component parts of the first nominated Natural Heritage site for the Republic of Serbia

Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe — 2019 — WHEE842104C65

Serbia's nomination of components for the UNESCO World Heritage site 'Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe' marks a significant advancement in the protection of Europe's last remnants of natural beech forests. These forests, located within Kopaonik, Tara, and Fruška gora National Parks, are notable for their scientific and conservation value, having been under strict protection for decades. The nomination aims to enhance the Outstanding Universal Value of this Pan-European property by adding significant ecological representation. If successful, this would represent Serbia's first Natural World Heritage site, strengthening local protections and raising global awareness about these unique ecosystems.

The Composition and its Transformation of Zhenhai Temple in Mount Wutai in the Qing Dynasty

Mount Wutai — 2019 — WHEFD99C8D4F5

During the Qing Dynasty, Zhenhai Temple on Mount Wutai underwent significant architectural transformation due to the royal patronage of Tibetan Buddhism. This study reveals that the temple's composition evolved in response to the religious and political dynamics of the period, reflecting the influence of Tibetan Buddhist practices on traditional Chinese temple architecture. The research analyzes historical records and architectural features to trace these changes, highlighting how royal support led to the restoration and expansion of temples across Mount Wutai. This insight underscores the cultural and religious syncretism that characterized the region during this time.

The composition of the aphid fauna (Insecta, Hemiptera) of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew — 2019 — WHEA509F65F1D

Aphid species of non-native origin have expanded their range in Europe, but the role of botanic gardens in this phenomenon was previously unexplored. This study identifies 94 taxa of Aphidomorpha at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (UK), including 20 alien species and nine new records for the site. Notably, Ericolophium holsti, an Asiatic aphid associated with Rhododendron spp., was documented in the UK for the first time in the field. The research also highlights that 20 of the identified species are serious pests capable of virus transmission. Conducted over twelve days in June 2017 across living plant collections, glasshouses, and nurseries, this inventory builds on earlier studies from the 1960s, providing insights into changes in aphid fauna composition and host range.

The contrasting leaf functional traits between a karst forest and a nearby non-karst forest in south-west China

South China Karst — 2019 — WHE6BDBF92956

Trees in karst forests exhibit higher phosphorus concentrations, photosynthetic capacity, and water use efficiency compared to those in nearby non-karst forests. This adaptation suggests that karst trees are more conservative in water use, while soil phosphorus deficiency may limit growth in non-karst forests. The study analyzed gas exchange, anatomical traits, and mineral nutrient concentrations in leaves from 21 tree species in a tropical karst forest and 19 in a non-karst forest in south-west China. It found that evergreen and deciduous trees differed more significantly in leaf functional traits in the karst forest than in the non-karst forest, with the palisade:spongy mesophyll thickness ratio positively correlated with stomatal conductance but negatively with photosynthetic water use efficiency—contrasting patterns not observed in the non-karst forest.

The Contributions to the Refoundation of thebes: a New Epigraphic and Historical Analysis

Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis — 2019 — WHE2DEFF2689F

A groundbreaking epigraphic and historical analysis of the Theban refoundation inscription, previously fragmented, reveals new insights into the motivations and contributions of its donors. By physically joining two fragments—one known since the 19th century and another recently published—the study provides the first full edition with detailed notes, supplements, and an apparatus criticus. This work challenges earlier scholarly assumptions about the refoundation's context, offering fresh perspectives on the inscription's significance in ancient Thebes' history.

The Copepod Acartia tonsa Dana in a Microtidal Mediterranean Lagoon: History of a Successful Invasion

Venice and its Lagoon — 2019 — WHE1378891E02

The copepod Acartia tonsa has emerged as the dominant species within the Acartia genus in Venice's lagoon, supplanting native species like Paracartia latisetosa and Acartia margalefi. This shift, documented through four mesozooplankton datasets spanning 1975 to 2017, highlights A. tonsa's opportunistic nature, thriving under conditions of varying temperature, phytoplankton abundance, particulate organic carbon (POC), chlorophyll a, and salinity gradients. The study reveals that anthropogenic factors and environmental stressors have created an ideal environment for the invasion of nonindigenous species in this microtidal Mediterranean lagoon, with significant implications for its trophic network and ecosystem services. By comparing coexistence patterns before and after A. tonsa's settlement, researchers underscore the ecological consequences of such invasions on UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The correlation between airborne Betula pollen content and meteorological factors in the Tianshan Mountains, Xinjiang, China

Xinjiang Tianshan — 2019 — WHE464E761561

A five-year study in the Tianshan Mountains, Xinjiang, China, revealed that airborne Betula pollen dynamics are significantly influenced by meteorological factors. The research found that pollen concentration peaks advanced annually, correlating with rising temperatures, while precipitation negatively impacted birch growth. Pollen traps at three sites—Tianchi, Fukang, and Beishawo—showed distinct temporal patterns, with Tianchi exhibiting the strongest link between pollen content and climate variables. These findings suggest that Betula pollen records can serve as indicators of past climate change and human activity, offering insights for ecological studies in the region.

The correlation between local weather and leptospirosis incidence in Kandy district, Sri Lanka from 2006 to 2015

Sacred City of Kandy — 2019 — WHE8B248EC3A3

Leptospirosis incidence in Kandy district, Sri Lanka, is strongly correlated with local weather variables, including rainfall, humidity, and temperature. Research indicates that peaks in wet days, heavy rainfall (>100 mm), minimum and average temperatures, and humidity are followed by increased leptospirosis cases, while reduced rainfall correlates with lower incidence. The study analyzed weekly data from 2006 to 2015 using wavelet analysis, revealing that the climate in Kandy is highly conducive to leptospirosis transmission, warranting targeted preventive measures during high-risk weather conditions.

The Destruction of Buddhas: Dissonant Heritage, Religious or Political Iconoclasm?

Cultural Landscape and Archaeological Remains of the Bamiyan Valley — 2019 — WHE0D0779F29F

The destruction of the Bamiyan Buddhas by the Taliban was primarily driven by political iconoclasm, not religious or cultural factors. Analysis suggests that Mullah Omar viewed the statues as a bargaining chip and revenue source, with religion playing a secondary role. The act was politically calculated, with external allies aware of its consequences. While cultural and religious elements were present, they were not the primary motivators. This study challenges the notion that the destruction was solely due to theological or cultural dissonance, providing a nuanced perspective on the complex dynamics at play.

The Detachment Physical Weathering Form Group Affecting Stone Building Materials at The Archaeological Site of Sabratha, Northwest Libya

Archaeological Site of Sabratha — 2019 — WHE75814A83B1

A comprehensive analysis of the Archaeological Site of Sabratha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Libya, reveals that nine primary physical weathering forms—belonging to the 'detachment group'—are significantly affecting its stone monuments. These weathering processes, ranging from non-visible damage (0 degrees) to moderate damage (3 degrees), are primarily driven by diurnal and seasonal temperature variations, relative humidity fluctuations, salt crystallization, moisture content, and water exposure. The study employed a methodology based on the classification system developed by Fitzner and Heinrichs (2002, 2004), which includes fifteen individual weathering forms. To visualize damage distribution, contour maps were created for each form, alongside linear and progressive damage indices. The findings underscore the urgent need for government institutions to prioritize the preservation of Sabratha's built heritage, given the severity and extent of the observed weathering damages.