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The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted Japanese society, including its relationship with cultural heritage. This paper shares findings of a large-scale web-based survey conducted from January to February 2022, reaching over 10,000 respondents using a smartphone questionnaire system, aimed at answering the following questions: 'What impact has the pandemic had on societies and local communities in Japan?' and 'What policies should be implemented to protect cultural heritage in response to this new situation in Japan?'. A cross-cutting analysis of the collected responses and respondent attributes was performed. The paper offers four recommendations for long- and short-term cultural heritage policies to enhance future protection. Firstly, it emphasizes increasing cultural heritage awareness, targeting youth and the economically disadvantaged. Secondly, it recommends a reassessment of the prevailing policy structures related to temples and shrines. This recognises the traditional role these institutions have played as community gathering places. Thirdly, it emphasizes supporting smaller, rural festivals with financial aid for repairs, promotions, and bridging migrant gaps. Finally, it suggests integrating the younger generation into the cultural heritage discourse through educational initiatives and digital resources, ensuring continued relevance and intergenerational connection to cultural heritage in Japan. These policy suggestions stand as the linchpin for perpetuating cultural heritage and fostering intergenerational engagement therein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fire statistics indicate that fire, despite significant technical progress in the field of fire protection, is a significant risk to the long-term preservation of cultural property. Management of the risk requires tools which quantitatively relate the risk of fire to the characteristics of buildings and collections and the effectiveness of fire protection measures. Such tools must be accessible to, and useful for, conservation professionals and related decision-makers. To address the challenge, a module assessing fire risk for collections in museums has been developed on the HERIe online digital decision-supporting platform using the methodology proposed by Jean Tétreault transformed into a mathematical algorithm. It takes into account building characteristics and the proportion of the collection stored in showcases, as well as the vulnerability of the collection materials to heat, combustion, smoke, and water. This information is used to forecast loss to collection value over a selected time horizon. Fire likelihood is estimated from the fire statistics available in the user's country, area, or organization. Risks to collections associated with correct and unwanted activation of automatic fire suppression systems are also considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Grand Canal is a network which for over one millennium connected the rice growing regions of southern China with the centres of political power in the north. During the 19th and 20th centuries it fell into decline. In the 1980s calls for the Grand Canal's heritage preservation appeared. China's heritage system was transitioning from a focus on 'cultural relics' to that of 'cultural heritage'. This transition involved the theorisation, construction, and governance of a 'cultural market' in the context of an expanding leisure economy and mobile society. We seek here to outline features of the heritagisation of the Grand Canal that constitute an example of cultural route heritage as mobility narrative. Firstly, we bring attention to the ways in which the 'Dayunhe' was rediscovered, valorised and subject to a dramatic transformation in its conceived heritage value. Secondly, we examine how the Grand Canal is indicative of China's growing interest in 'mobility narratives' including that of the Belt and Road Initiative. We argue that this not only reflects the project to develop narratives that bind the population to the story of the nation, but also the expansion in mobility and connectivity domestically and internationally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Electronic Turkish Studies is the property of Electronic Turkish Studies and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Guthi, deeply rooted in the social, cultural, and economic fabric of Nepal, has traditionally managed temples, shrines, festivals, and heritage sites since the Lichchhavi era (400–750). Since 1960, however, this system has been challenged by government land reforms, which have impacted its influence on sustainable heritage conservation. Nevertheless, there is compelling evidence that land nationalization and the guthi's declining authority have harmed local heritage conservation. Nevertheless, the guthi system has endured, serving as an important informal means of heritage conservation and highlighting the adaptability of traditional institutions. These community-based trusts, originally established for social and religious purposes, have played a pivotal role in preserving cultural heritage for future generations. This article aims to demonstrate the central role of the guthi as the cornerstone of Nepal's efforts to conserve and manage both tangible and intangible cultural treasures. Using observational techniques, case studies, and a qualitative approach, it explores the historical evolution of heritage conservation through the lens of the guthi, taking into account subjective, valued, and constructed realities. This paper concludes by urging policymakers to recognize the significant contribution of indigenous systems such as the guthi system in achieving the backbone of sustainable heritage conservation and management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of organic stabilization is crucial for understanding its impact on the durability and effectiveness of earthen plaster. Analyzing natural admixtures' effects on plaster properties provides insights that aid in optimizing plaster composition and application for desired characteristics. The addition of biopolymers, known to enhance plaster performance, necessitates further investigation to understand their role in earthen plaster stabilization. This study focuses on Tata Somba homes in Benin and Togo, recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites. These unique architectural examples embody "architecture without architects", relying solely on local traditional knowledge. The objective is to explore and revive Tata Somba's ancient eco-technology for earth plaster stabilization. Research shows that biopolymers' combined stabilization and application techniques can improve earthen plaster performance. Seven promising bio-stabilizers were identified, suggesting their potential as sustainable, effective options for CO 2 mitigation in buildings. These findings not only deepen our understanding of earthen architecture but also underscore the potential of merging traditional, eco-friendly building methods with modern scientific insights to create sustainable solutions for cultural heritage preservation and contemporary built environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In today's increasingly globalised world, libraries have emerged as crucial institutions for preserving and promoting oral traditions and storytelling activities. This paper explores the globalisation perspective of libraries as curators of oral tradition and storytelling activities. The methodology adopted for this study was a systematic method, using relevant literature through a highly rigorous and systematic process. The systematic review of oral tradition in libraries highlighted that libraries had embraced the digital age and utilised technological advancements to digitise and archive oral traditions, making them accessible to a broader audience. Despite the growing significance of libraries as curators of oral tradition and storytelling activities, there is inadequate research and empirical evidence on the globalisation perspective of libraries regarding this. Consequently, this research gap hinders the development of strategies and frameworks that can effectively harness the globalisation potential of libraries as curators of oral tradition and storytelling activities. The linguistic model for this review was chosen to demonstrate how traditional oral forms convey perception and experience. Libraries, as curators of oral tradition and storytelling activities, contribute to preserving cultural heritage, enriching knowledge, and promoting cross-cultural understanding in an interconnected world. These will contribute to preserving, promoting, and sharing worldwide oral traditions, thereby deepening cross-cultural understanding and facilitating meaningful cultural exchange. Future research should explore using digital technologies and online platforms to reach global audiences and effectively bridge cultural divides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Kurds are a nation residing in the region of Kurdistan, which extends to five distinct countries, namely Iran, Turkey, Syria, Iraq, and Armenia. The Kurds, due to their marginalisation inside their own countries and their settlement in strategically significant cross-border areas, have consistently faced challenges in preserving their national identity, as well as their cultural heritage. However, the Kurds have successfully maintained and safeguarded their cultural heritage and its various components throughout several centuries. They have preserved Jorabin as a 'traditional sport' within Kurdish communities. The aim of this study is to examine the historical development of Jorabin, investigating its interrelations with various cultural aspects and its socio-cultural significance for the Kurdish community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The National Center for Manuscripts in Adrar, Algeria, is working to preserve and digitize valuable manuscripts in the Eastern Sahara region. The center has digitized 70 manuscripts from its collection and obtained digital copies of 320 more through agreements with safe owners. The digitized collection includes manuscripts in Arabic, French, and Amazigh. The center faces challenges such as technical difficulties and resistance from some safe owners, but it has future projects to make indexes and titles of manuscripts available and establish a digital library. The center aims to increase awareness of digitization and involve more annexes in the process, despite obstacles such as a lack of scientific standards, trained staff, and advanced software. [Extracted from the article]

Ancient civilizations have imprinted their legacy on Zanzibar Stone Town through the construction of revered stone masonry buildings, which are experiencing rapid deterioration due to severe ambient environmental impacts. In response to these challenges, this study presents a comprehensive field exploration through the ambient vibration test (AVT) and numerical prediction of historical stone masonry buildings in Zanzibar Stone Town to analyze the dynamic characteristics. The ambient vibration test (AVT) reveals structural dynamic properties in terms of peak resonance frequencies (fr(avg)), mode shape, and damping ratio, in conjunction with the development of correlation with the geometric parameters of the building. The results reveal fr(avg) ranges between 2.8 and 5.3 Hz for investigated structures, non-uniform deformed mode shapes, and damping ratio ranges between 1.35% and 4.45% at various orientation axes of the understudy buildings. However, the relationship between natural frequencies indicates a higher association with the geometrical parameters of the building, yielding a correlation coefficient (R2) between 0.85 and 0.99. Moreover, the numerical prediction via eigenvalue analysis (EVA) yields a considerable association with the investigated data, quantified by root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE) ranged between 0.29 and 0.3, with Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) and R2 between 0.81 and 0.99, respectively. Furthermore, conservation work guidelines were also developed to assist the structural engineer and conservationist in adopting targeted conservation strategies for the efficient preservation of the historical integrity in Stone Town. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Space & Form / Przestrzeń i FORMA is the property of West Pomeranian University of Technology, Department of Architecture & Urban Planning and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Licchavi kingdom was an ancient kingdom in Nepal, which existed in the Kathmandu Valley from approximately from ca. CE 300 to ca. 879. Centuries earlier at the start of the Buddhist era, a powerful republic known as Licchavi existed in what is today Bihar. It is to be mentioned here, some legendary sources from the Kathmandu Valley also describe the Kirātas as early rulers there, taken over from earlier Gopāls or Ᾱbhiras, both of whom may have been cow herding tribes. The food habit of ancient inhabitants of Nepal was very simple. Paddy was the most important food grain. Different kinds of fishes were available at that time. Pāniya-goṣṭhikās, Pranālī - goṣṭhikās were formed to supply water for various purposes. The preservation custom seems to be practiced from very ancient time. The oil press (Tailaśālā), copper smithies (Tāmrakuṭaśālā), Pharmaceutical laboratories (Ārogyśālā) and indigo processing workshops (Nīlīśālā) were given lands. Mallayuddha-goṣṭhikās, Vāditra - goṣṭhikās existed and functioned in festivities. Varāhayātrā, Kāraṇapujā were also used to organise at that time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Webber Ndoro, former director general of the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM), discusses the influence of Western perspectives on the definition and interpretation of heritage. He highlights the need to incorporate diverse perspectives and values in order to create a more inclusive understanding of heritage. Ndoro also addresses the challenges of decolonizing heritage, including the limited participation of local communities and the dominance of Western-trained professionals in the field. He emphasizes the importance of anthropology in understanding and including the perspectives of marginalized groups. [Extracted from the article]

This paper discusses the significance of traditional Indian textiles, which are recognized globally for their intricate surface ornamentation techniques like embroidery, dyeing, and printing. Embroidery has been a popular technique used for centuries to adorn clothing and textiles. Different regions in India practice distinct embroidery techniques, each having unique features. The study analyzes two embroidery styles: the Hmong embroidery from Thailand and the Phulkari of Punjab. The paper summarizes the history, techniques, design, and material used for embroidery, types of stitches, end products, and the cultural significance of these traditional art forms and further analyzes the similarities and differences between the two crafts. The study found that though both embroideries share similarities in the use of colors, cultural significance, and women's art forms, they also have notable differences. These findings highlight the rich diversity of textile arts around the world and the importance of cultural heritage in preserving these traditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Gdansk Journal of East Asian Studies / Gdanskie Studia Azji Wschodniej is the property of Jagiellonian University Press and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Sociedad y Economia is the property of Universidad del Valle and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In the reality of private properties embedded in a free market economy, the very fact of providing an administrative protection to the building of special value can be problematic. The possibilities of challenging and revoking such decisions are often used by property owners. Conflicts between the conservator -- a state administration official trying to provide legal protection to a monument -- and the owner -- an investor who pushes to achieve the intended investment goal regardless of the cultural value of the place -- are extremely strong. It is worth noting, however, that according to the provisions of Article 5 of the Constitution of the Republic of Poland, the direct stakeholder of the preservation of the cultural heritage is the entire society. Therefore, it is worth analysing whether public opinion is considered during conflict situations related to the protection of built heritage. To this end, a case study was conducted, that considered a conflict situation occurring during the procedure of entering the former tender building (roundhouse) into the Register of Immovable Monuments of the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Herald of Journalism / Habaršy Žurnalistika Seriâsy is the property of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Cultural tourism is a type of tourism associated with educational, experiential trips of heritage, culture, and personal enrichment. One of the types of cultural tourism - cultural routes is based on significant tangible and intangible cultural heritage, its actualization, cultural phenomena, historical personalities, etc. The article aims to clarify the requirements for a country to join the Council of Europe's Napoleonic Cultural Route "Destination Napoleon". The problem of this studie - it is not clear whether joining the Council of Europe cultural route "Destination Napoleon" will have a positive impact on the preservation of cultural heritage. The aim: find out the requirements for joining the Council of Europe's Napoleon Cultural Route (Destination Napoleon) regarding the preservation of cultural heritage. Research tasks: 1) To define the concept of the cultural route of the Council of Europe, emphasizing the Napoleonic cultural route 2) Find out the requirements for joining the Council of Europe's cultural routes; 3) To find out the opinion of experts on Lithuania's compliance with the requirements of membership of the Council of Europe "Napoleon's cultural route" (Destination Napoleon) regarding the preservation of cultural heritage. Research methodology. Analysis of scientific literature sources, current reports in the media, European Council documents and statistical data; A qualitative study was carried out - an expert interview, based on a pre-prepared questionnaire; formulation of conclusions. The research showed that the absence of the necessary association prevents Lithuania from becoming a member of the "Destination Napoleon" project, which prevents the implementation of further requirements, when joining would have a positive impact on the preservation of cultural heritage in Lithuania. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030 encompass a comprehensive framework to address the world's most pressing challenges, aiming to achieve a more sustainable and equitable future for all. Among these goals, Goal 11 specifically targets sustainable cities and communities, emphasizing cultural and natural heritage preservation and management. This research paper delves into the significance of SDG 2030 in the context of heritage management, focusing on both Indian and global perspectives. The paper highlights the importance of safeguarding cultural and natural heritage for sustainable development, contributing to social cohesion, economic growth, and environmental conservation. The paper also draws on empirical data and case studies; the research delves into the unique challenges faced by India in managing its diverse and rich heritage. The study examines how India's efforts align with global goals and identifies potential gaps and areas for improvement. Factors such as rapid urbanization, population growth, and climate change are explored regarding their impact on heritage sites and their management. In analyzing the global context, the research assesses various heritage management strategies and best practices from different countries worldwide. Drawing comparisons with India's approach, the paper highlights successful models that can be adapted to address global heritage management challenges. The study concludes with a series of policy recommendations to strengthen the efforts toward achieving the SDG 2030 targets related to heritage management. Emphasizing collaboration and knowledge-sharing, the paper advocates for a collective approach to conserving and promoting the diverse heritage of nations and the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the studies and work of Anna Spitzmüller, the first female custodian at the Albertina Museum in Vienna, Austria. It presents a short biography of Spitzmüller and overview of her study of art history at the University of Vienna. It compares the careers of Spitzmüller and art historian Erica Tietze-Conrat at Albertina and art historian Agnes Mongan at Fogg Art Museum, and Spitzmüller's advocacy for gender equality and her protection of cultural property.

This article explores conflicting views of the Icelandic turf house and how these views relate to notions of corrupt architecture and so-called 'difficult' heritage. First, we define the concepts of corrupt and difficult architecture and address their relationship to the discussion of heritage. We assert that this theoretical discussion is highly applicable as regards turf houses, plans for their eradication and measures to protect and preserve them. Next, we examine general attitudes towards turf buildings and several public campaigns to eradicate them, whereby turf is defined as an obstacle to cultural and social progress. Finally, we explore public measures to protect the Icelandic turf house, focusing mainly on the efforts of the National Museum of Iceland, which has a leading role in policy development and conservation of Icelandic architectural heritage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cultural theory of heritage assets that was consolidated throughout the 20th century, and is still in force today, lies in the modulation of the concept of authenticity. It is a nomadic, controversial concept that has adapted to the spirit of the times. This review of the concept, drawing on international reference texts and charters in the field of heritage, allows us to specify a working process that facilitates its consideration in characterisation processes. To do so, case studies of significant cultural assets in terms of scale and complexity will be presented as resources. Through the implementation of the Theory of Value, the keys will be provided: criteria and methodology for intervening in heritage. This journey will be reflected more slowly in the study of the Palace of San Telmo (Seville, 17th–21st century). This is a building with a controversial material history, in which a series of attributions of value have been transmitted that correlate both with the theory of the conservation of cultural assets and with social appreciation and the criteria. This is the way to materially undertake a reflection on the authenticity of this heritage. This study provides the keys to intervening, conserving the values identified, and recognising authenticity as a reality that is constructed through the process and through the passage of time. A methodology that allows us to consider the capacity to continue and replace heritage as a project strategy in which what is yet to come can take place. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article outlines the Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law's principles on climate mobility. The principles discussed include support for communities for safety, protection of people displaced due to climate change and disasters, facilitation of evacuations for people at risk, facilitation of migration and planned relocations, human rights protection, ensuring the needs and rights of groups are met, and protection of cultural heritage and identities, citizenship and associated rights.

The Lake Chad region, extending across several nations, exemplifies the interplay of culture, history and resilience. Focusing on Nigeria’s Borno and Yobe states, this paper explores how media and collaborative engagement shape the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage. Drawing from regional and international data sources, including climate studies, indigenous community narratives and UNESCO records, this study examines the role of media platforms and local initiatives in safeguarding heritage. Incorporating diverse data types such as ethnographic research, historical accounts and governmental reports, the paper showcases the region’s cultural mosaic and historical significance. Collaborative engagement is illuminated through case studies of BRTV, YBC and local organisations like Kanempress Digital Hub. Findings underscore the integral role of media in amplifying cultural narratives, connecting communities and sparking global interest. The paper highlights the challenges posed by conflict, climate change and resource limitations, underscoring the need for coordinated efforts. In conclusion, the Lake Chad region emerges as a testament to cultural resilience and global interconnectedness. Recommendations encompass fostering partnerships, integrating heritage in education and leveraging digital platforms for heritage promotion. This study contributes to a comprehensive understanding of cultural heritage preservation and its potential for socio-economic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethics, defined as a system of principles that distinguishes between right and wrong, serves as an established framework of behavior within a community, playing a pivotal role in scientific research activities. By upholding values such as knowledge, honesty, truth, objectivity, transparency, and a willingness to engage in the exchange of ideas, resources, and results, researchers proactively distance themselves from misconduct in a manner that is clear and transparent.The objective of this work is to shed light on recognized ethical concerns within the extensive field of cultural heritage research. It aims to propose practical solutions in the era of digitization, pinpoint the roles of organizations and institutions responsible for the preservation, revitalization, and promotion of cultural heritage, and offer ethical solutions that are comprehensible and widely acceptable. Cultural heritage serves as a significant catalyst for overall economic development, creating new employment opportunities and increasingly contributing to recognition and a positive image. The current generation carries a legal and ethical responsibility towards future generations, necessitating the minimization of negative effects stemming from the growing number of visitors. Simultaneously, it requires the adequate protection, utilization, and presentation of cultural monuments, spatial-historical entities, archaeological sites, famous locations, and intangible cultural heritage. The rich tapestry of various civilizations, with its authentic and unparalleled cultural-historical and religious heritage, attests to the invaluable integrative function of heritage. Despite the fact that there are no true winners in war, and all parties suffer losses in conflict, the enduring scars of past destruction serve as stark examples of the permanent loss of cultural values. These losses have a compounding impact on economic, political, cultural, and ethical stability and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the recent transition of the journal Preservation, Digital Technology & Culture (PDT&C) to an Open Access format. The first issue of 2024 marks the journal's shift from a subscription-based model to Diamond Open Access, allowing all articles to be freely accessible under the Creative Commons license CC-BY. The issue features four articles and one book review, covering topics such as the development of digital fashion, the use of digital technology in preserving cave art, the role of artificial intelligence in digitally preserving historic archives, and the use of digital media technologies for the revitalization of indigenous knowledge systems and languages. The article also includes a review of the proceedings from the International Conference Digital Performing Arts. The Open Access transformation is made possible through the Subscribe-to-Open model, which relies on continued subscriptions to support the journal's transition. [Extracted from the article]

This article presents the results of a global, cross-cultural survey conducted by ICCROM that invited people from all walks of life to describe the impacts that cultural heritage collections have on their lives. The qualitative responses of nearly 2,400 collected surveys were coded to extract main themes, which were subsequently analysed against respondents' ages, geographic distribution, and occupations using asymmetrical correspondence analysis. Across eight main themes, this research explores recurring justifications observed in the survey data describing how heritage collections were perceived to impact – or not impact – people's lives, considering variance across different demographic groups. It further engages contemporary heritage debates to discuss what the results might say about the actual and potential roles of heritage collections in today's global societies, as well as some possible implications on their management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the economic development of Nanjing Xianlin University Town under the influence of the clone town effect. The objective of the study is to analyze the impact of urban management and commercial property management on the economic interchanges between university towns and city centers. Quantitative research methods and SPSS data analysis were used, and 80 valid questionnaires were collected and analyzed. The study's findings reveal that opening the Xianlin Bus Rapid Transit system to other urban areas in Nanjing and adjusting the rental policy are crucial methods to foster economic interactions between university towns and city centers. Furthermore, the satisfaction survey data highlight disparities in merchandise satisfaction levels between university towns and shopping districts, indicating untapped development potential in the university town market. The study emphasizes the importance of resource sharing, preserving cultural heritage, and creating a humanistic atmosphere in university towns. Additionally, optimizing planning and construction, mitigating the over-commercialization and the clone town effect, and enhancing transportation systems are identified as crucial factors for the economic development of Xianlin University Town. This study provides practical suggestions and guidance for the future development of university towns, serving as a valuable reference for enhancing the economic development of Xianlin University Town in Nanjing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By reviewing the development of the rights of indigenous peoples in the United Nations (UN) system and the right to health of indigenous peoples in international human rights treaties, we examine the implications of the "Indigenous Health Act" passed on 26 May 2023 in Taiwan. In previous state reports on the implementation of human rights treaties, the government and the International Review Committees (IRC) focused on issues related to the rights concerning self-determination, political participation, equality in judicial remedies, work, education, housing, as well as preservation of cultural properties and languages, while health issues were lacking. During the review cycle for the third report on implementing the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the RC recommended in its concluding observations that the government, informed by the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, pass the Indigenous Health Act as soon as possible to establish a legislative framework for protecting the individual and collective right to health. Therefore, we analyse the law's objectives based on the relevant international human rights norms and explore its prospects and challenges for promoting health equities and cultural safety among indigenous peoples in Taiwan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Mosque of Cordoba (Spain) is an emblem of the rich cultural heritage of Western Andalusia. This research focuses on the mechanical characterization of the natural stone used in the building. Determining its properties is crucial to understanding the structural behaviour of the entire building. An experimental campaign with various mechanical tests, such as density, compression, indirect tensile, and bending tests, was conducted on more than 100 cubic and prismatic specimens obtained from the main quarry that supplies material for the mosque's restoration. The results indicated the stone's isotropic behaviour for the studied properties. Further analysis established correlations between compressive strength (averaging 6 MPa) and other mechanical properties. This preliminary characterization provides valuable information for future in situ testing and more sophisticated lab techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The preservation of The Great Mosque of Córdoba (Spain) as a carrier of Andalusian collective memory requires innovative approaches to assess and maintain its structural health. This research centers on two non-destructive methods: direct ultrasound testing and rebound hammer. Laboratory tests were performed on natural stone provided by the primary material supplier for the Mosque's restoration and rehabilitation works. Non-destructive and destructive tests were carried out over 10 ashlars and 100 cubic and prismatic specimens, which were cut from the ashlars. Tests were conducted in multiple directions to investigate stone anisotropy. Destructive testing indicated isotropy, but ultrasound test results disagreed. Sensitivity analysis of specimen dimensions affected result dispersion, but not average properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the engineering field, it is necessary to construct a numerical model that can reproduce multiphase flows containing three or more phases with high accuracy. In our previous study, by extending the conservative Allen–Cahn (CAC) model, which is computationally considerably more efficient than the conventional Cahn–Hilliard (CH) model, to the multiphase flow problem with three or more phases, we developed the conservative Allen–Cahn type multi-phase-field (CAC–MPF) model. In this study, we newly construct the improved CAC–MPF model by modifying the Lagrange multiplier term of the previous CAC–MPF model to a conservative form. The accuracy of the improved CAC–MPF model is evaluated through a comparison of five models: three CAC–MPF models and two CH–MPF models. The results indicate that the improved CAC–MPF model can accurately and efficiently perform simulations of multiphase flows with three or more phases while maintaining the same level of volume conservation as the CH model. We expect that the improved CAC–MPF model will be applied to various engineering problems with multiphase flows with high accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The story of the Somnath temple, in the northwestern Saurashtra peninsula, has often been taken as an example of the contentious legacies of the penetration, settlement, and political establishment of Muslims in India. Its history testifies to the complex relationship between history, heritage, and the consolidation of collective memories of past events and processes. This article focuses on two key moments in the temple's recent history: the retrieval of the Somnath gates by Lord Ellenborough in 1842 and the reconstruction of the temple between 1947 and 1951. At these two moments—one during colonial times and the other at the creation of the independent state—Somnath became the battlefield for questioning how the state should be positioned with regard to religious places, histories, symbols, and practices. While the temple was apparently dealt with as a tangible place of heritage, both episodes show how the value endowed upon the temple had far more complex meanings. The analysis proposed in this article ends with the reconstruction of the temple. This shows the way in which architects of independent India addressed the country's history, directly or indirectly engaging with the construction of a heritage for the new state. Their efforts aimed to strengthen a shared memory of the past, which could in turn consolidate membership and a sense of belonging to the new nation. Advocates and promoters of the temple's reconstruction, among whom were Vallabhbhai Patel and K. M. Munshi, envisioned that the reconstruction would embody the long-awaited liberation of India from centuries of continuous domination by 'foreign' powers. In contrast, secular politicians, with Nehru at the helm, opposed the reconstruction, fearing that Somnath might become the symbol of a sectarian vision of the nation and, in the wake of partition, derail efforts to characterise independent India as an inclusive country. While the reconstruction did eventually take place, the entire episode invites us to question the relationship between the framing of Indian nationalism and the heritagisation of Indian history. Following a critical theoretical approach to Heritage studies, where heritage has less to do with the item that is preserved than with the value with which it is endowed, this article proposes to investigate the meanings that heritage preservation, conservation, and reconstruction acquired as part of the project of nation- and state-building. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the last part of Afghanistan to be converted to Islam (in 1896), Nuristan retains a distinct material and intangible cultural heritage. However, for nearly forty years, Nuristan has been virtually inaccessible to researchers of cultural heritage due to protracted insecurity in the province. With the Taliban in control of the country once more, conflict has largely ceased, enabling access to many hitherto inaccessible parts of the country, including Nuristan. There is now a window of opportunity to conduct much-needed work on the state of cultural assets across the province. The authors conducted two separate field visits between May and July 2022 to undertake a preliminary assessment of Nuristan's intangible and intangible cultural heritage and to conduct a feasibility study for future mapping and conservation efforts. This paper presents initial findings from the fieldwork and highlights the urgent need for investing in cultural protection work in Nuristan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and background: This paper explores the intersection of smart cities and urban preservation models. The concept of smart cities is rapidly gaining momentum as a way to improve efficiency, sustainability, and livability of urban areas. However, the pursuit of these goals can sometimes conflict with the need to preserve historic and culturally significant urban areas. Main goal and objectives: This paper examines how smart city technologies can be integrated with urban preservation models to create sustainable and liveable cities while also preserving their unique character and cultural heritage. Methodology: It discusses case studies of cities that have successfully implemented such integration, as well as challenges and opportunities for future implementation. Mauritius, like many other countries, is exploring the concept of smart cities as a means to enhance its urban infrastructure and improve the quality of life for its citizens. Smart cities leverage technology and data to optimize various aspects of urban life, including transportation, energy management, public services, and environmental sustainability. While smart cities present numerous opportunities for Mauritius, they also come with their fair share of challenges. Results: The paper examines the challenges and opportunities of the development of smart cities in the Mauritian context. It concludes that smart cities and urban preservation models can complement each other, and that their integration can lead to a more harmonious and sustainable urban future. By integrating smart city technologies and urban preservation models, cities can create a harmonious balance between technological advancement, sustainability, and the preservation of historical and cultural heritage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study applies the cultural gene theory to preserving and inheriting Henan Yellow River cultural heritage, aiming to provide insights for the thorough exploration and optimal utilization of Yellow River cultural heritage resources. The extraction of Henan Yellow River cultural genes follows a process akin to extracting product genes in biological, genetic engineering. Utilizing reverse translation of instances of Henan Yellow River cultural elements and reverse transcription of instance populations, the Henan Yellow River cultural genes are extracted. A genealogy for constructing Henan Yellow River cultural heritage is established through the associative construction of genetic elements. The cultural genes are categorized and organized into three types which are core genes, ancillary genes, and hybrid genes. Tailored educational and communicative strategies can be adopted for different gene types, thereby offering a reference for the inheritance and preservation of Henan Yellow River cultural heritage and facilitating practical applications in relevant domains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heritage structures play an important role in defining the essence of a city, possessing immense historical value that necessitates conservation. These heritage structures in the historic precincts are at risk of being demolished in developing countries undergoing rapid urbanization. Current legislative measures appear insufficient to prevent the destruction of such structures in the precincts. This vulnerability can be attributed to a general lack of understanding of their significance to the stakeholders, the absence of conservation incentives, and the limited development options available to heritage property owners. This paper examines into the concept of Transfer of Development Rights (TDRs), a potential incentive mechanism that could aid in the preservation of these architectural structures and precincts. The TDRs initiative is proposed as a viable option for heritage property owners, striking a balance between economic interests and preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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