Historical Value Research Articles

Sustainable Conservation Strategies of Urban Heritage Sites: Kayseri Talas Archaeopark Proposal

Talas, an intersection point of Muslim, Greek and Armenian civilizations throughout history, stands out as one of the important settlements of Anatolia. The rich cultural heritage and unique geographical structure of the region have allowed it to host numerous civilizations throughout history. However, social dynamics such as population decline following the population exchange and changes in the demographic structure have posed significant challenges to preserving the historical texture of the region. In addition, factors such as the risk of landslides and illegal excavations have caused serious damage to the historic structures of Talas and are among the factors threatening the cultural values of the region. To preserve the historical identity of the region, it is significant to reconsider the projects to be carried out in the urban protected area of Talas, aiming to establish a cultural meeting point for both, locals and visitors. In this context, it is recommended that the cultural values of Talas be preserved and enhanced through elements such as museums, workshops, art galleries and cultural activity spaces, as well as the integration of the region into its surroundings through bicycle paths and walking trails. Integrating Talas into the cultural route project will be a strategic move towards making the region a tourist attraction and carrying its historical identity into the future. The Talas Urban Archaeological Site should be reconstructed not only as a historical site in need of preservation but also as a focal point that will contribute to the social and cultural structure of the region. Such approach will allow the development of sustainable solutions to protect and promote the historical and cultural values of the region.

Application of Diverse Nutrients (N, P, and K) Throughout the Annual Growth Cycle Influences the Phenology and Biomass of Paeonia ostii

The tree peony holds significant historical, cultural, and practical value. P. ostii is extensively cultivated in China, where it represents the primary oil-producing variety of tree peonies. However, the current nutrient supplementation system for P. ostii lacks an empirical basis, resulting in frequent wastage of nutrients during daily production. In this study, varying ratios and quantities of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium were administered to P. ostii at distinct phases of its annual growth cycle, specifically during the bud sprouting, post-flowering, and dormancy periods. The results showed that during the bud sprouting period, the plants treated with a high nitrogen and potassium ratio (a high N&K ratio, N–P–K = 35%–20%–35%) had better flowering traits than those treated with a high phosphorus ratio (a high P ratio, N–P–K = 20%–35%–20%). Under the standard application amount, plants treated with a high N&K ratio outperformed those treated with a high P ratio in terms of flowering duration, net photosynthetic rate, and flowering biomass, with increases of 20.9%, 10.7%, and 32.9%, respectively. During the post-flowering period, all plants died when treated with 1.5 × standard amounts of the above ratios. At this period, the all-high ratio with N–P–K = 45%–45%–45% resulted in a 70.4% increase in fruit set, a 43.8% increase in seed number, and a 153.8% increase in biomass compared with the high N&K ratio. During the dormancy period, nutrient supplementation with the standard amount of P led to higher increases in ground diameter and biomass. Therefore, in subsequent tree peony production, particular attention should be paid to nutrient supplementation during the post-flowering period to prevent excessive fertilizer application and safeguard the plants’ normal growth and development.

An Improvement Method for the Protection of Anatolian Flat Earthen Roofs: The Case of Kemaliye

ABSTRACT Earth roofing has been a widely used construction method since ancient times due to its affordability, ease of construction, and availability of materials directly from the surrounding soil. This study includes an extensive literature review, field investigations, measurements, and results aimed at preserving the traditional earthen roof systems of stone houses in the Kemaliye district. Within the scope of this research, the architectural texture of the study area and the local geographical features that shape it were thoroughly examined. The structural components, architectural characteristics, structural challenges, sustainability considerations, and urban architectural aesthetics of Kemaliye’s stone houses were analyzed in detail. Particular focus was placed on the deterioration of natural roof coverings over the service life of the buildings. To address these issues, the earthen roof covering was improved using locally sourced materials and innovative engineering solutions. A newly designed roof deck was constructed on-site, and its performance was monitored instrumentally and verified. Long-term measurements from the instrumentation were analyzed and presented graphically, offering valuable insights into the system’s functionality. The layered solution created an effective capillary barrier (CB), which successfully regulated water movement across the roof surface and facilitated drainage without compromising the structural integrity of the system. The proposed redesign of traditional earthen roof systems, incorporating local materials, not only preserves the historical and aesthetic value of these structures but also enhances their sustainability and durability.

System dynamics modeling to predict hospitalization costs in adults with inguinal hernia: a single-centre study.

This research aims to develop a novel methodology and provide innovative insights for accurately forecasting hospitalization expenses by developing an appropriate system dynamics model to predict hospital costs and simulate future trends. The findings are meant to serve as a guide for creating effective policies and measures to curb the growth in hospitalization costs. We selected adults who had inguinal hernia surgery at Beijing Chaoyang Hospital from January 2015 to December 2023 according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. We identified the primary factors that influence hospitalization costs and conceptualized them as interconnected subsystems within the broader hospitalization cost system. We develop a system dynamics model of hospitalization costs using the stock-flow tree modeling framework based on flow-rate variables. This study included a total of 23,696 adult patients who had inguinal hernia surgery. The simulation results for the period 2016 to 2033 were generated by running the model in Vensim simulation software. The forecast for 2033 predicts that hospitalization costs for adult inguinal hernia patients at Beijing Chaoyang Hospital will reach 81.28million RMB. The number of surgeries will rise to 7,913, with 65% (5,104 surgeries) being outpatient procedures. The average cost per hospitalization will be 10,271.35 RMB. The elderly population among surgical patients is expected to increase to 5,323. For every 1,000 laparoscopic surgeries, 454 will be performed. For every 1,000 surgeries, 437 will involve the use of degradable mesh implants. The number of patients with severe comorbidities is expected to reach 6,403, and medication costs are forecasted to be 1.44million RMB. The system dynamics model for hospitalization costs effectively captures the relationships between multiple influencing factors and hospital expenses. The model's reliability and predictive results' credibility are indicated by the high alignment between simulated historical data and actual historical values. Hospitalization costs are projected to increase annually, while per capita hospitalization costs are expected to decrease. Factors such as an aging population, improved cost control policies, and the promotion of outpatient surgeries exert significant influence in this trend.

“His Works Are a Living Chronicle of That Epoch” (Belinsky): On the 280th Anniversary of the Birth of Denis Ivanovich Fonvizin

Aim. To study the assessment of prose and drama, as well as the significance of the personality of D. I. Fonvizin by writers and poets – his contemporaries – and literary scholars of the 20th–21st centuries in the aspect of the writer’s artistic ontology. This approach makes it possible to update ideas about the significance of statements by creative individuals about their fellow writer both for characterizing the characters in the work of the playwright and educator Denis Ivanovich Fonvizin, and for assessing his artistic principles in general. The article evaluates the variety of perspectives of memories of Fonvizin’s activities, examines the uniqueness and cultural and historical value of his legacy.Methodology. The author offers an analysis of the works of Prince Pyotr Andreevich Vyazemsky (1792– 1878), dedicated to the work of D. I. Fonvizin. The approach to the disclosure of the problem is based on the testimony of authors from different eras and times, which allows us to judge the obvious similarity of the authors’ views on the literary and artistic process in general and on the legacy of D. I. Fonvizin in particular.Results. In the course of the work, the features of the critical approach of the writer Prince Pyotr Vyazemsky to the legacy of Fonvizin were identified. A conclusion is made about the need to master the basics of the skill of a critic on the material used.Research implications. The author managed to offer a new approach to assessing Fonvizin’s work in the critical potential of writers-critics.

Kaos og kapital. Et tredje mønster i islændingesagaerne?

This article is an attempt to understand the significance of money and capital in relation to honor and the larger value system of the sagas of Icelanders. Even though men of honor in the sagas are often rich, money is – in itself – not a value to which the saga writers attach great importance in their assessment of human beings. On the other hand, the saga writers are by no means disinterested in money, and the heroes’ behavior with money has direct impact on their honor and status in society. The article is thus not preoccupied with the historical value that gold, silver or cattle had in the Middle Ages or in the age of the sagas, rather it studies the relationship and behavior of the saga heroes to economic capital and the significance that capital has in the society of the sagas. The saga writers did not lack a theory of how to behave around money. The value system of the sagas appears to follow advice and rules in the Bible about how to behave with money and debt. According to the sagas and the Bible, money is a perilous power that must be handled with extreme caution.

Kesalahan Peserta Didik Kelas VIII MTs Modern Al-Rifa’ei dalam Menyelesaikan Soal Berbasis Etnomatematika dengan Konteks Masjid Kasunyatan Banten Menggunakan Teori Nolting

Ethnomathematics links mathematical concepts with culture to create contextual and meaningful learning such as the application at the Kasunyatan Banten Mosque which has historical and cultural values. This study aims to analyze the errors of class VIII students of MTs Modern Al-Rifa'ei in solving ethnomathematics-based problems using six types of errors in accordance with Nolting's Theory. This study uses a qualitative approach with a case study type. The subjects of the study consisted of class VIII MTs totaling 6 subjects who experienced errors based on Nolting's Theory and on the recommendation of the teacher. Data collection techniques used tests and interviews. The test instrument adopted ethnomathematics-based essay questions from the Kasunyatan Banten Mosque. The credibility test used triangulation techniques, namely tests, interviews, and documentation. Data were analyzed using error indicators in Nolting's Theory. The results of this study indicate that the errors made by students are 1) Misread-direction errors in the form of information that is available and asked is not written; 2) Careless errors in the form of inconsistency in writing units and miscalculations; 3) Concept errors in the form of not understanding the concept of arithmetic operations, units and not finding a solution strategy; 4) Application errors, inaccuracy in determining formulas and applying them to different situations; 5) Test-taking errors, errors in making decisions due to incorrect formulas and questions; and 6) Study errors, not being used to solving story problems. These findings can be used as a basis for designing more effective ethnomathematics-based learning by identifying mathematical concepts that are difficult for students to understand and connecting them to relevant cultural contexts

Analysis of International Communication Pathways for Traditional Sports Culture from the Perspective of Cultural Confidence

From the perspective of “cultural confidence,” traditional sports culture, as a vital carrier of outstanding Chinese traditional culture, embodies rich historical value and national spirit while bearing the mission of disseminating national soft power and cultural identity. This paper first outlines the theoretical foundations of cultural confidence and traditional sports culture, thoroughly analyzing the primary models and obstacles faced in the international communication of traditional sports. Building on this, it proposes communication strategies centered on enhancing cultural identity and explores innovative pathways integrating new media and cross-cultural carriers. Finally, through case studies, it summarizes practical experiences to provide insights for further enhancing the global influence of traditional sports culture. The study shows that leveraging digital platforms and diversified communication channels, coupled with strengthened cross-cultural interactions, can effectively expand the depth and breadth of communication, promoting the global dissemination of cultural confidence.

Synergy of cultural heritage, business, and technology as a path to success in museum management

This article explores the synergy between cultural heritage, entrepreneurship, and technology through the lens of achieving success in museum management. In the modern era, this field is undergoing significant transformations under the influence of digital technologies, business strategies, and new formats for presenting cultural heritage. Against the backdrop of increasing commercialization, the challenge arises of finding and maintaining an optimal balance between preserving historical value, ensuring economic sustainability, and integrating technological innovations. On the one hand, an entrepreneurial approach and digitalization expand museum audiences and make exhibitions more accessible. On the other, there is a risk that educational and cultural missions may be compromised in favor of commercial interests. The aim of this study is to analyze the aforementioned synergistic effect, including the impact of successful private initiatives, with a particular focus on the Sergey Dovlatov Apartment Museum. The article examines key economic and technological trends and identifies contradictions in the academic literature related to the digitalization and commercialization of museum activities. The findings confirm that integrating cutting–edge technologies and business models into the museum sector not only enhances financial stability but also broadens the socio–cultural influence of museums, making them more accessible and interactive. The author emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary research that considers organizational, economic, technological, and cultural aspects. The materials presented in this study will be useful for professionals in the fields of museum management, cultural policy, entrepreneurship, and for researchers studying the impact of digital technologies on the preservation of cultural heritage.

Masyarakat Bugis di Kota Tua Ampenan Mataram

The old town of Ampenan is a strategic area. This can be seen from the point of view of socio-cultural interests where this area has become a cultural heritage of Mataram City based on the Building and Environmental Planning (RTBL). And this is in accordance with the Regional Long and Medium Term Development Plan (RPJMD) of Mataram City, namely in 2016-2021 regarding Ampenan Old Town which has historical values, preservation of local customs and culture which is one of the identities of the local community's local wisdom. This research aims to explore the history and social dynamics of the Bugis community who settled in the Old Town of Ampenan Mataram. The approach used in this research is through a socio-historical study approach, meaning that data collected through interviews, observations, and literature studies to produce an in-depth understanding of the adaptation and contribution of the Bugis community to city life. Based on the results of observations and interviews that have been conducted, it can be formulated the problem studied, namely exploring the development of the Bugis community in the context of urban history, social transformation, and interaction with the surrounding community.

"War medicine" The Battle for whole blood: 1943-1945 and beyond.

This article aims to convey two particular statements of historical value for its readers. Firstly, it seeks to remind everyone with an interest in the history of the United States (US) Blood Program that the use of whole blood in the combat casualty care in this great military campaign was by no means certain. Secondly, it hopes to draw the attention of the readers of Transfusion to the very considerable efforts of their professional predecessors to record the process whereby whole blood did, eventually, become the standard of care. Compiled by the Army Historical Unit, the Official History of the US Army Medical Department in World War contains a number of volumes detailing what it summarizes as "War Medicine." This official history devotes an entire volume to the subject of the Blood Program and its development of front line transfusion, as well as including supplementary material in other volumes where transfusion proved to be a crucial component in successful medical provision (such as the volume on Surgery). The editors and contributors had a clear understanding of the fundamental importance of the achievement of the blood program and were determined to reflect this in what would become their definitive work.

A New Concept for the Restoration Passport of Ceramic Cultural Monuments

This article examines the challenges and nuances of managing restoration documentation for movable cultural monuments, particularly focusing on ceramic artifacts. The current system of documentation is critiqued for its lack of standardization and reliance on outdated practices that fail to meet the demands of modern restoration efforts. In response to these shortcomings, the author proposes a new, comprehensive model for a museum monument passport tailored specifically to ceramics. This model emphasizes the integration of detailed descriptions of technological characteristics, conditions of use, and types of damage, while also incorporating systematic monitoring to ensure ongoing preservation. The proposed passport model addresses the unique needs of ceramics, recognizing their typological diversity and the influence of factors such as production technology, environmental exposure, and usage history on their preservation. It advocates for a structured, questionnaire-based approach to documentation, which promotes clarity, reduces errors, and facilitates the standardization of terminology across restoration practices. The inclusion of schematic illustrations, classification data, and advanced technological descriptors enriches the depth of documentation while supporting easy digital integration for data management and monitoring. Central to the model is the prioritization of regular monitoring, enabling early detection of issues and timely intervention to prevent further degradation. The passport also incorporates provisions for documenting restoration efforts, including the analysis of previous interventions and their impact on the artifact’s condition. This systematic approach not only enhances the scientific rigor of restoration activities but also ensures the authenticity and historical value of the artifacts are preserved. Future research directions include practical testing and adaptation of this model for various types of movable monuments, fostering international collaboration and unified standards for cultural preservation.

Pengembangan Media Komik Digital Belajar Sejarah Untung Suropati (Besti) Berbasis Line Webtoon untuk Menunjang Kemampuan Berfikir Kronologis Peserta Didik

The research conducted originated from the problem of students who did not understand the historical value of the struggle of National Hero Untung Suropati chronologically. As many as 87.5% of students want learning media that can convey historical material using stories and pictures. The purpose of this research and development is to produce and test the effectiveness of digital comic media Learning History of Untung Suropati (Besti) on the ability to think chronologically of students in class XI-8 SMAN 2 Pasuruan. The research method used is the Research and Development method with a development model developed by Sugiyono which has 10 stages. The results showed that the validity of the product obtained from material experts was 81.73%, validation from media experts was 91.5%, and assessment from history teachers was 90.76%. The results of the product feasibility test in the small group trial conducted on 6 students obtained a percentage value of 81.3%, while the results of the large group trial conducted on 26 students obtained a percentage value of 81%. Research on effectiveness was also carried out by conducting pretests and posttests which showed differences before and after using the developed media. Based on this, the digital comic media Belajar Sejarah Untung Suropati (Besti) that has been developed can be classified as valid, effective, and suitable for use in learning history.

Traditions of Realist Painting in the Representation of the Kyiv Urban Landscape by Artists of the 1970s–1980s.

The purpose of the article is to provide a comprehensive study of the traditions of realist painting as reflected in the urban landscape of Kyiv during the 1970s–1980s. The focus is on analysing the creative methods employed by artists of this period and identifying their impact on the preservation of the city’s cultural identity and heritage. Research methodology. This study employs a combination of methodological approaches, including art historical analysis, analytical methods, the historical-cultural approach, and comparative analysis. The use of these methods enables an in-depth and multifaceted examination of the research subject and contributes to the achievement of reliable and substantiated scholarly results. Particular attention is given to the analysis of artworks created by Kyiv-based artists of the 1970s–1980s, examined in the context of their artistic manner, subject matter, and the broader cultural and historical background of the era. Scientific novelty. The scientific novelty of the research lies in the systematisation and in-depth analysis of the traditions of realist painting within the context of depicting Kyiv’s urban space in the 1970s–1980s. For the first time, the study offers a comprehensive examination of the artistic techniques, stylistic features, and individual creative approaches of Kyiv artists from this period. It defines their contribution to preserving the visual image of the city as an element of its historical and cultural heritage. In addition, the study analyses the influence of sociocultural factors – particularly ideological directives, urban infrastructural transformations, and everyday life – on the formation of artistic visions of the urban environment. Conclusions. The article highlights the significant role that traditions of realist painting played in preserving cultural memory and representing Kyiv’s urban landscape in the 1970s–1980s. The research analyses the works of leading artists of the time, identifies key trends in depicting the urban environment, and characterises their contribution to the creation of a cohesive cultural image of Kyiv. It is revealed that the artistic practices of this period not only recorded the external transformations of the urban space but also fostered a deeper awareness of the city’s historical value and identity amid ongoing social changes. Realist painting functioned as a form of visual archiving of the urban landscape and served as an important factor in the processes of cultural identification for the residents of Kyiv.

Career Exposure to Religion and CEO Effort: Evidence from China

ABSTRACT While the extant literature documented that religion is associated with fewer agency conflicts of CEOs from decreased private profit, this study aims to explore historical Buddhist values for CEOs’ attention on increased private costs, i.e. health, and ultimately willingness to make efforts to stay on the job. Using samples on Chinese listed firms, we find that CEOs exert less effort in promoting firm value when firms are closer to Buddhist monasteries. This negative impact is weakened when the firm faces stronger corporate governance or fiercer market competition. Nevertheless, firms exposed to denser Buddhist atmospheres exhibit higher efficiency. Our study highlights the opposite roles religion plays in affecting agency conflicts and the necessity of distinguishing private profits from private costs.

Unveiling determinants of imageability in the historical waterfront of urban springs in Jinan City, China

ABSTRACT The conservation and revitalisation of urban waterfronts are increasingly recognised for their role in fostering cultural continuity and city identity. Imageability, which reflects the recognisability and memorability of a place, is central in this process. However, limited understanding of its contributing elements in historical spring waterfronts may result in the erosion of cultural and historical values. This study aims to identify the important elements of qualities that enhance the imageability in the historical waterfront of urban springs. Jinan City, China, was selected as a case study due to the concentration of historically significant spring water within the urban area. A questionnaire survey (n = 326) was employed to collect user opinions and analysed by Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) through measurement model assessment, structural model assessment, importance-performance map analysis, and cross-validated predictive ability test. The findings revealed 14 elements across four qualities significantly enhanced imageability in the historical spring waterfronts. Comfort is the most critical factor, emphasizing well-maintained facilities and environment. Legibility significantly enhances imageability through clear spatial elements. While slightly less impactful, safety and uniqueness remain essential. The study contributes to policymakers and urban designers in developing new and existing spring waterfronts with strong imageability in China.

Thomas the Twin: Constructing an Apostolic Personality

Abstract In the Synoptic Gospels and Acts, Thomas is mentioned only in the four lists of the Apostles (Mk 3:18; Mt 10:3; Lk 6:15; Ac 1:13). Appearing about midway through these lists, he seems to have been regarded as relatively unimportant among the Twelve. By contrast, in John’s Gospel, Thomas is presented as a central character, featuring prominently in four major scenes. In three of those scenes Thomas is given the additional name Didymus (Twin), a name exclusive to him in John’s Gospel and later tradition, especially in connection with Syrian Edessa. By the 4th century, Edessa had become famous for its special veneration of the Apostle Thomas, with sources featuring Thomas as the missionary link between Jesus and the early Christianisation of lands from Syria to India. The Edessan School of Thomas developed an encratic school of devotion to Thomas as the mystical twin of Jesus and prototypical Christian healer, and the Syrian city housed an established shrine for his remains. Scholars rightly contest the historical value of these sources, but analysis of their provenance, content and reception allows us to outline a picture whose lines converge in a coherent and plausible tradition of devotion that, in just a few centuries, reached as far east as India and as far west as Spain, Gaul, and Britain.

Documenting and Designing Digital Folklore Comics on ‘Indigenous Fruits in Sarawak’: An Ethnobotanical-Linguistic Approach

Apart from being a source of food in local community, most species of the indigenous fruits in Sarawak are seasonal which make them unique, symbolic and closely connected to the life of the locals. Socio-culturally, they play a central role in maintaining the identity of Sarawak. However, due to sociocultural hybridization, the indigenous knowledge base related to these indigenous fruits, including their associated folklores, has become increasingly endangered. In line with this, the present study aims to design digital comics depicting folklores related to indigenous fruits in Sarawak. Adopting an ethnolinguistic fieldwork approach, the documentation of folk genres from the narrators or informants was done in the central region of Sarawak, where most of the indigenous fruits are grown. To this end, conversational qualitative interview and photography method were employed, focusing on stories or folkloric knowledge related to the indigenous fruits, such as their use and traditional beliefs, myths, tales, and practices of people. This was followed by designing the digital folklore comics. In total, eight folklores were collected. This study makes attempts to help preserve the local heritage and culture associated with the indigenous fruits, while promoting local wisdom via the depiction of historical and cultural values embodied in the folklores.

Acoustic Emission-based Micro-damage Monitoring of Key Parts of the Quanzhou Song Shipwreck: A Case Study

ABSTRACT The Quanzhou Song Dynasty shipwreck, excavated in 1974, holds significant historical and academic value, serving as a pioneering example for the preservation of large-scale, marine-recovered wooden cultural relics. This research deployed 16 acoustic emission (AE) transducers on pivotal areas of the shipwreck, aligning their positioning with the distinct types of hull micro-damage and the species of wood involved. AE signals were monitored and processed from January 2023 to October 2024 to identify and analyze the types of micro-damage occurring within the hull. The micro-damage types were categorized into four groups based on peak frequency: buckling and collapse of cell wall, microcrack damage, delamination, and fiber breakage. The highest frequency of damage was observed in the left bow, primarily in the form of delamination. The occurrence of micro-damage significantly decreased in 2024 compared to 2023. This study represents a groundbreaking approach in multipoint in situ monitoring of movable wooden cultural relics, offering significant insights for the preventive structural condition monitoring efforts for large-scale wooden shipwrecks.

Between truth and fiction or historiæ mediæ, sive vero falsoque mixtæ

This article discusses the scholarly reception of saga literature in eighteenth-century Scandinavia taking as its point of departure the paratextual features of manuscript AM 395 fol., held in the Árni Magnússon Institute, Reykjavík. It focuses on the additions made by subsequent owners of this manuscript, especially the table of contents which classifies the sagas included in this manuscript into subgroups based on the criteria of their historical value. It suggests who the author of the table of contents was and discusses the possible sources of the classification applied in the table of contents.