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Non-invasive analytical investigation of Mudéjar polychrome on the carpentry of Alcázar of Seville

Cathedral, Alcázar and Archivo de Indias in Seville — 2018 — WHE1F7685120B

Research reveals significant differences in the polychrome pigments used on two sets of carpentry from the Alcázar of Seville, suggesting variations in application timing. The study employed non-invasive techniques such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Raman spectroscopy to analyze the external layers of the wood without causing damage. This approach allowed scientists to determine whether the pigments were original or altered during past restorations. The findings highlight the importance of understanding historical modifications in preserving cultural heritage, particularly for Mudéjar-style architectural elements.

Nondestructive testing of deterioration for Yungang Grottoes based on THz-TDS

Yungang Grottoes — 2018 — WHEA123CF8957

Researchers have developed a non-destructive testing method using terahertz time domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) to accurately assess the hollowing deterioration of Yungang Grottoes. The study demonstrates that this technique can reliably detect and characterize thickness differences in deteriorated samples with high precision, particularly identifying hollowing at 1 mm, 2 mm, and 3 mm intervals using a consistent delay time interval of about 5 ps. By establishing a hollowing thickness model based on the correlation coefficient k, the method offers a practical approach for monitoring surface deterioration without causing damage to the grottoes. This innovation holds significant potential for conservation efforts, enabling targeted repairs and strengthening interventions.

Norse America

L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site — 2018 — WHEA8E8FC0AF6

Archaeological evidence, including the discovery of L'Anse aux Meadows—a 1000-year-old European settlement on Newfoundland's coast—challenges the long-held belief that sporadic contact between the Old and New Worlds began only after Columbus. This site, linked to Norse sagas describing unknown lands, suggests the Norse ventured to North America around 1000 AD in search of habitable land rather than for exploration or economic gain. The study combines oral legends, archaeological findings, and interviews with historians to reconstruct Norse migrations from northern Europe to Iceland, Greenland, and beyond, debunking the myth of pre-Columbian isolation between cultures.

Northern Bison Sanctuary or Big Ranch? Wood Buffalo National Park

Wood Buffalo National Park — 2018 — WHE4AEC49C33A

Wood Buffalo National Park, established in 1922 to protect the last remnant herd of wood bison, stands as North America's largest national park and continues to shelter the continent's biggest free-roaming population of this species. However, the park's wildlife has faced significant and often poorly conceived management interventions, marking it as a notable case study in Canadian conservation history. The analysis delves into the complex interplay between conservation goals and practical management challenges, highlighting the unintended consequences of human intervention on one of Canada's most iconic natural landscapes.

Not only the Golden Gate? A newly discovered fragment from the decoration of the castle chapel portal in Althaus (Starogród) as a contribution to the identification of ceramic sculpture in the Teutonic Order's State in Prussia

Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork — 2018 — WHE7AF007228D

A newly discovered ceramic fragment from the decoration of the castle chapel portal in Althaus (Starogród), unearthed during archaeological excavations in Kulmerland, challenges previous assumptions about the role and significance of ceramic architectural sculpture in the Teutonic Order's State in Prussia. This small but significant finding suggests that such sculptures were more widespread than previously believed, not just as symbols of rank and power, but also as integral elements reflecting the 'genius loci'—the defining spirit or character—of the architecture from the first phase of construction campaigns by the Teutonic Order. The discovery, part of the project Castra Terrae Culmensis (2017), provides new insights into the types, manufacturing techniques, and layers of meaning associated with figural decorations in castles such as Marienburg (Malbork), Elbing (Elbląg), Thorn (Toruń), and Graudenz (Grudziądz). This fragment, dating to around 1300, offers a rare opportunity to revise our understanding of ceramic sculpture in this historical context.

Novità epigrafiche da Hierapolis di Frigia

Hierapolis-Pamukkale — 2018 — WHE6BC568C3C5

Recent archaeological excavations at Hierapolis-Pamukkale, Turkey, have uncovered significant epigraphic evidence from two key areas: the sacred temenos of Apollo and the adjacent Plutonium, and a church built on a hillside incorporating a 1st-century CE tomb later venerated as that of Apostle Philip. The study highlights a document from the temple of Apollo detailing supplications by slaves, offering rare insight into social dynamics within ancient religious contexts. Additionally, a 'titulus pictus' from the Church of Saint Philip provides new textual evidence, contributing to the understanding of early Christian veneration practices in Hierapolis. These findings enrich our knowledge of both pagan and Christian traditions at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Numerical Analysis for Dispersal and Recruitment of Pelagic Larvae of the Land Crabs in Amitori Bay, Iriomote Island

Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island — 2018 — WHE387C8FB3E8

A numerical analysis of land crab larvae dispersal and recruitment in Amitori Bay, Iriomote Island, revealed that larvae exhibit a highly dispersive movement strategy. Most larvae were transported out of the bay within a week after release, with return rates to their release sites (< 0.01%) significantly lower than migration rates to adjacent habitats (< 10%). Larvae were predominantly released during nighttime high tides around new moon phases, with minor variations between species in timing and location. The study utilized field observations of larval release times, wind conditions, and river discharge data to simulate larval movement, highlighting the importance of considering meta-population dynamics for land crab conservation on Iriomote Island.

Numerical simulation of groundwater age distributions in the hierarchical subsurface flow system: a case study of Jinan in northern China

Mount Taishan — 2018 — WHE03542C7E2A

Groundwater age distributions in Jinan, northern China, reveal a hierarchical subsurface flow system influenced by topography and aquifer lithology. This study identifies nested local, intermediate, and regional flow systems from Mount Taishan's piedmont to the Qiguang Fault, with groundwater age increasing along flow paths and abruptly near stagnation points—a key boundary between different flow hierarchies. Using a coupled groundwater flow and age transport model, researchers simulated these dynamics, providing critical insights for aquifer management and rational groundwater resource development in Jinan.

Numerical Simulation of Secondary Undulation Occurred in Kominato Fishing Port of Amami Oshima Island During the Summer Season

Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island — 2018 — WHED86B2E10B5

A numerical simulation reveals that secondary undulation, a phenomenon triggered by typhoons, significantly elevates water levels in ports during summer, exacerbating flood risks. This study focuses on Kominato Fishing Port in Amami Oshima Island, where typhoon-induced secondary undulations were successfully reproduced using computational modeling for the period of June 18-20, 2012. The findings highlight a 6-minute oscillation mode and elucidate the propagation characteristics of oceanic long waves responsible for these undulations. This research underscores the importance of understanding such dynamics to mitigate disaster risks in coastal areas vulnerable to typhoon impacts.

Numerical simulation of the behaviors of test square for prehistoric earthen sites during archaeological excavation

Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City — 2018 — WHE6922C95BCD

A numerical simulation using FLAC3D demonstrates that test squares in prehistoric earthen sites, such as Liangzhu City, exhibit deformation patterns consistent with field monitoring during archaeological excavation. This finding validates the use of computational modeling for predicting stability and guiding excavation schemes, addressing challenges posed by poor site-specific conditions. The study highlights the importance of integrating numerical simulations into archaeological practices to enhance accuracy in stability evaluation and decision-making.

Numerical Study on Accumulation Mechanism of Coral Gravels Around Ballast Island, the Coral Cay off the Coast of Iriomote Island

Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island — 2018 — WHE45E01DC4C1

A numerical and field survey study reveals the accumulation mechanisms of coral gravels around Ballast Island, a dynamic coral cay off Iriomote Island, Okinawa. Despite severe wave attacks causing frequent shape changes to the island, coral gravels consistently gather, maintaining its position. The research identifies physical processes underlying this stability, offering critical insights for conservation strategies. By combining field observations with numerical modeling, the study sheds light on how coral coasts resist erosion and adapt to harsh environmental conditions, providing a foundation for protecting vulnerable coral ecosystems in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Nuovi neogeografi crescono con il progetto di alternanza scuola-lavoro “conoscere per conoscerci”

Villa Adriana (Tivoli) — 2018 — WHE6B9309AF5E

A project integrating neogeographic practices into educational settings demonstrates the potential of digital storytelling and participatory cartography to enhance learning about UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The initiative, 'Conoscere per conoscerci,' involved students from three schools in Rome and its province using smartphones and online applications to map Villa Adriana (Tivoli), among other locations, during a GISDay event. This approach showcased how modern neogeographic tools can facilitate the creation of user-generated maps and promote innovative educational methods, bridging traditional geography with contemporary digital practices.

Nutrient limitation of benthic algae in Lake Baikal, Russia

Lake Baikal — 2018 — WHEF24CA1A574

Recent nuisance blooms of filamentous benthic algae in Lake Baikal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's most biologically diverse lakes, are strongly driven by nutrient limitation. A study using nutrient-diffusing substrata (NDS) at 10 sites with varying shoreline land use revealed that periphyton biomass—measured as chlorophyll a—responded robustly to nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) enrichment, showing serial limitation by these nutrients across all locations. Algal biomass was approximately 2–4 times higher on N- and N+P-amended substrata compared to unenriched controls. While periphyton biomass varied among sites, it was not significantly linked to shoreline land use. However, taxonomic composition differed notably between nutrient treatments and land-use categories, with the filamentous green alga Stigeoclonium tenue—associated with recent blooms—dominating on N- and N+P-amended substrata. These findings underscore the potential for improved nutrient controls to mitigate benthic algal blooms in Lake Baikal.

O Desenvolvimento do Ecoturismo dentro do Parque Nacional da Chapada dos Veadeiros-GO

Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks — 2018 — WHE5938B45D6A

A study on the development of ecotourism within Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, located in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, Brazil, highlights the various modalities and operational practices of this activity. The research reveals that ecotourism in this protected area is structured around accessible attractions near the park's headquarters, with a focus on sustainable tourism practices. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining in-loco observations of the park's territory and its attractions, alongside exploratory bibliographic and online research to analyze current ecotourism practices. This work provides valuable insights into how ecotourism can be effectively managed within UNESCO World Heritage Sites, balancing visitor engagement with environmental conservation.

O Plano, o Contraplano e o “Plano sem Plano”: Imagens Ocidentais e Mbya Guarani das Ruínas de São Miguel

Jesuit Missions of the Guaranis: San Ignacio Mini, Santa Ana, Nuestra Señora de Loreto and Santa Maria Mayor (Argentina), Ruins of Sao Miguel das Missoes (Brazil) — 2018 — WHEB4E1B78EFC

Indigenous Mbya Guarani perspectives on the Jesuit-Guarani Missions challenge Western narratives by redefining visual representations and heritage through their own cinematic and cultural frameworks. The study reveals that for the Mbya Guarani, concepts of cinema and patrimony transcend colonial imagery, existing as a 'shot without a shot'—a dynamic that moves beyond oppositional 'war of images.' This finding emerges from an analysis of Western visual productions of São Miguel ruins, juxtaposed with Mbya Guarani films. The research highlights how indigenous filmmaking and heritage practices resonate with their cosmological worldviews, offering a nuanced alternative to dominant historical narratives.

O toacă unicat din Maramureș - România. Note despre istoria acestui instrument la români

Wooden Churches of Maramureş — 2018 — WHE2525D99F71

A unique and previously unrecognized semantron, a rare type of church bell, was discovered in the 17th-century wooden church of Strâmtura, Maramureș, Romania. This instrument features a horizontal axis with six mobile mallets arranged around a round disk, striking a wooden plank—a design reminiscent of solar symbols and distinct from traditional semantrons. The discovery sheds light on the historical significance of this instrument in Romanian Orthodox churches, which dates back to at least the 17th century and is linked to myths, including one involving Noah's Ark. The study also highlights other sophisticated semantrons, such as those from Rouen Cathedral (France) and villages in Transcarpathia (Ukraine), providing a comparative context for understanding this instrument's evolution and cultural importance. The findings underscore the need for conservation efforts to preserve this unique artifact within its original setting.

Object Lesson: Monuments and Memory in Charlottesville

Monticello and the University of Virginia in Charlottesville — 2018 — WHE5166E661EE

A century apart, Charlottesville's public squares became stages for white supremacy, with mobs in 1917 and 2017 both asserting racial hierarchies through ritualized displays of intimidation. The study reveals how racism is inscribed into the city's fabric—its streets, buildings, and monuments—reinforcing silent geographies of race. While visual memory of such events may have dimmed in an image-saturated age, the legacy persists, particularly in monuments commissioned by elites between 1917 and 1924, which transformed the cityscape while masking deeper racial tensions.

Observed Trends of Climate and River Discharge in Mongolia’s Selenga Sub-Basin of the Lake Baikal Basin

Lake Baikal — 2018 — WHEA95BC7F161

A significant increase in annual air temperature, averaging 1.4°C over the past 38 years, has been observed in Mongolia’s Selenga sub-basin of Lake Baikal, a region characterized by pronounced environmental gradients driven by precipitation and temperature. This warming trend is notably high for semi-arid zones in central Asia and contrasts with a significant decrease in river discharge since 1995. The study analyzed data from five stations using the Mann-Kendall (MK), Innovative Trend Analysis Method (ITAM), and Sen’s slope estimator test, revealing that while precipitation slightly increased at most stations, air temperature showed sharp increases across all locations. These findings provide critical insights into the climate and hydrological dynamics of the region, offering a foundation for further research on its environmental changes.

Of Documents and Archives: The First Modern Census of Texas

Cathedral, Alcázar and Archivo de Indias in Seville — 2018 — WHEC651EB0E00

A first modern census of Texas, conducted in 1777 under Governor Juan María Vicencio, Baron de Ripperdá, reveals that the Spanish colonial administration was more connected and systematic than previously thought. This census, overlooked by earlier historians due to incomplete documentation, established a model for subsequent colonial censuses in Texas and across the Spanish empire. Researchers reconstructed the census using archival records from multiple locations, demonstrating how late 18th-century bureaucratic processes facilitated transatlantic communication and data collection. The study highlights the importance of accurately evaluating historical documents to understand the administrative reforms and information systems of the time.

Official memorials, deathscapes, and hidden landscapes of ruin: material legacies of the Cambodian genocide

Cambodian Memorial Sites: From centres of repression to places of peace and reflection — 2018 — WHE444BD31B39

This study reveals the dual nature of Cambodia's genocide memorialization, highlighting a stark contrast between state-sanctioned memorials catering to Western 'dark tourists' and overlooked everyday landscapes where survivors and descendants live with the legacy of violence. It documents how current remembrance efforts construct a 'heritage from above,' often silencing the mundane yet profound experiences of those who continue to grapple with the past in their daily lives. The research juxtaposes these material legacies, exposing the bounded nature of reconciliation narratives and the competing claims over Cambodia's violent history.