Bikini Atoll Nuclear Test Site
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2021 —
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A comprehensive database of Marine Isotopic Stage 5e (MIS 5e) sea-level proxies from tropical Pacific islands reveals critical insights into past sea-level fluctuations during the last interglacial period. The study, which reviewed approximately 300 studies and compiled data from 163 age points and 94 relative sea-level (RSL) data points across 38 studies, highlights the diversity of sea-level indicators such as emerged coral reef terraces and drill cores. These findings underscore the importance of refining RSL reconstructions with more precise chronological data, accurate elevation measurements, and better understanding of palaeo-water-depth significance in coralgal assemblages. The open-access database, available at https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.3991672, serves as a valuable resource for future research on sea-level changes in the tropical Pacific.
Venice and its Lagoon
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2021 —
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This study highlights the significance of material authenticity in preserving UNESCO World Heritage Sites, focusing on Venice and its Lagoon. It demonstrates that elements like medieval brick walls play a crucial role in maintaining the historical identity and visual integrity of urban landscapes. The research proposes a meticulous conservation strategy for these surfaces, which serves as a model for broader maintenance programs in Venice. This approach emphasizes the importance of material authenticity not only in architectural projects but also in the overall urban conservation efforts, offering a scalable methodology applicable to other historical contexts.
Hebron/Al-Khalil Old Town
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2021 —
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Google Maps serves as a tool for Israeli authorities' surveillance in the occupied Palestinian territories, particularly in Hebron, by curtailing certain views and information. This study reveals how such censorship operates through an ethnographic exploration conducted between 2018 and 2019, focusing on Wesam, a Palestinian photographer who creatively uses Google Maps' Street View to navigate and respond to these restrictions. The research highlights the intersection of technology and military rule in occupied territories, offering a nuanced perspective on digital surveillance and resistance.
Rani-ki-Vav (the Queen’s Stepwell) at Patan, Gujarat
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2021 —
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Gujarat's architectural evolution reflects a dynamic interplay between tradition and modernity, with Rani-ki-Vav (the Queen’s Stepwell) at Patan serving as a key example of historical innovation. The study reveals how climate, materials, creativity, and culture shaped traditional structures—such as palaces, markets, and stepwells—while 20th-century developments introduced modern and contemporary designs, including the Sabarmati Riverfront and the Statue of Unity. Notably, Ahmedabad’s architecture, pioneered by B.V. Doshi, exemplifies this transition from classical to modern forms. The research combines historical analysis with material studies, highlighting how cultural continuity and technological adaptation have defined Gujarat’s architectural identity across eras.
Complex of Koguryo Tombs
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2021 —
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The Gangseodaemyo Tomb murals of Koguryo, dating to late 6th century, represent a significant advancement in Koguryo tomb art. These murals depict mythical creatures—such as the phoenix, blue dragon, white tiger, and xuanwu—alongside Buddhist and Taoist motifs, reflecting a synthesis of artistic traditions influenced by Chinese Southern and Northern Dynasties styles. The murals' innovative techniques, including spatial composition and symbolic representation, convey themes of cosmic order and spiritual transcendence. This study highlights the tomb's wall paintings as a testament to Koguryo's stable society during this period, where artists integrated traditional motifs with new stylistic experiments, achieving balanced and harmonious visual effects.
Complex of Koguryo Tombs
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2021 —
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Ohoebun Tomb No. 4 of Koguryo, dated to the late 6th century, reveals a distinct artistic evolution in the domestic region of Koguryo, showcasing a vibrant and dynamic mural style that contrasts sharply with the more refined and subdued art found in the capital region around Pyongyang. This tomb’s murals represent a refined mythological system unique to Koguryo, blending indigenous Yemaek culture with foreign influences while maintaining regional distinctiveness. Unlike other 6th-century murals across East Asia or in Pyongyang, Ohoebun Tomb No. 4’s artwork demonstrates a more sophisticated and organized approach, reflecting the domestic region’s individualistic and conservative cultural identity. The study analyzes these murals to highlight their artistic and cultural significance within Koguryo’s broader historical context.
Saint Catherine Area
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2021 —
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Olive cultivation in South Sinai Governorate demonstrates remarkable economic efficiency and productivity, with average net returns reaching L.E. 11.95 thousand per feddan and a profit margin of 65.2%. The study, conducted through descriptive and quantitative analysis using primary and secondary data from 80 farms, reveals an average olive productivity of 1.5 tons per feddan, contributing to a total production of approximately 10,174.7 tons annually. Economic indicators such as the rate of return over costs (2.78) and relative profitability (68.4%) underscore the sector's viability. The research highlights the dominance of olive cultivation in the region's horticultural landscape and recommends replacing low-productivity trees to further enhance efficiency, aligning with UNESCO World Heritage Site conservation goals that balance agricultural sustainability with cultural heritage preservation.
Haeinsa Temple Janggyeong Panjeon, the Depositories for the Tripitaka Koreana Woodblocks
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2021 —
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This study reveals the unique tradition and transmission of woodblock printing techniques (In-gyeongsul) used for the Tripitaka Koreana at Haeinsa Temple, highlighting its historical significance and distinctive methods. The research systematically documents the intricate processes, tools, and preparatory steps involved in this rare practice, which has been orally transmitted within Haeinsa since 1968. By comparing these techniques with those used in Japan and China, the study underscores the temple's method's originality and cultural value. It also aims to preserve this intangible heritage through detailed recordings and photographs, offering a comprehensive understanding of a practice that has endured for over 700 years.
Complex of Koguryo Tombs
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2021 —
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A comparative analysis of tomb murals from the mid-5th century Koguryo dynasty reveals divergent interpretations of Buddhist afterlife beliefs. While the Jangcheon Tomb No. 1 depicts a refined vision of reincarnation through lotus blossoms, symbolizing a Pure Land paradise, Tonggu Tomb No. 12's murals reflect a more traditional view of the afterlife, emphasizing everyday life rather than Buddhist concepts. This suggests that while Buddhism was widely accepted in Guknaeseong, its deeper theological understandings varied among individuals or social groups. The study examines these differences through detailed analysis of mural motifs and their symbolic meanings, highlighting the complexity of religious assimilation during this period.
Cologne Cathedral
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2021 —
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Gerhard Richter's 'The Cologne Cathedral Window' (2007), installed as the cathedral's new south transept stained glass, introduces unprecedented abstract and geometric motifs that challenge traditional stained-glass conventions. The work employs computer-generated randomness to produce an infinite array of colorful panels, embodying chaos and infinity through algorithmic order. This study reveals how Richter's use of chance aligns with sublime aesthetics and experience, linking German Romanticism and modernist abstraction while subverting Gothic cathedral symbolism. By analyzing the interplay between randomness and structured design, the research elucidates Richter's artistic process as a means to evoke sublime contemplation within a historic religious context.
Group of Monuments at Hampi
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2021 —
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A survey conducted from 2013 to 2021 identified four turtle species inhabiting the River Tungabhadra in Hampi, Karnataka: Nilssonia leithii, Chitra indica, Lissemys punctata, and Melanochelys trijuga. Additionally, a tortoise species, Geochelone elegans, was found in the surrounding scrub jungle. The study highlights the chelonian diversity of this UNESCO World Heritage Site while discussing environmental factors affecting these species, potential threats to their survival, and conservation measures required for their protection.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and Hin Nam No National Park
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2021 —
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Travelers seeking information about Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a lesser-known but ecologically significant UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam, prioritize practical details such as transportation options—including cross-border and domestic routes—and popular local experiences. Analysis of online travel forums revealed that while sites like Lonely Planet, Oxalis Adventure, Rough Guides, The Lost Passport, and Rome2rio offer standard destination overviews (e.g., landmarks, tours, accommodations), Oxalis Adventure stands out for its depth in logistical details, while The Lost Passport highlights lesser-known but favored on-site activities. Topic modeling of forum posts identified 27 distinct information categories travelers actively seek, emphasizing real-world needs beyond generic descriptions. This study underscores the gap between broad travel guides and the granular, context-specific data that travelers value for navigating remote or under-documented destinations.
Kulangsu, a Historic International Settlement
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2021 —
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Psychological evaluation experiments and indication method studies reveal distinct characteristics of street space on Gulangyu Island and Xiamen Island, both part of the UNESCO-listed Kulangsu Historic International Settlement. The research quantifies how spatial composition and visual elements influence perception, offering insights into urban design and heritage preservation. By analyzing responses to street environments, the study identifies key factors that shape public experience in these culturally significant areas.
Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group: Mounded Tombs of Ancient Japan
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2021 —
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Research on the Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Japan, reveals that streetscapes harmonious with these ancient mounded tombs are evaluated based on three key elements: regularity, naturalness, and history/culture. These elements are influenced by greenery along streets, building colors and designs, walls/fences, and pavement unity. The study used factor analysis of landscape plans to identify evaluation viewpoints and recognize elements contributing to harmony. This insight is crucial for urban planning that balances enjoyment of kofun while preserving their historical value.
Yungang Grottoes
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2021 —
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Yungang Grottoes, one of China's three major stone grottoes, preserves diverse pagoda carvings that reflect the architectural and artistic evolution of early Buddhist stupas. These carvings, including freestanding external pagodas, internal central pagodas, multi-tiered pagodas, and relief pagodas on walls or door frames, mirror the structural techniques and styles of wooden pagodas prevalent during the Northern Wei Dynasty (5th–6th centuries CE). The study reveals that these pagodas serve as invaluable records of early Chinese Buddhist stupa design, offering insights into both the development of stone pagoda craftsmanship and the influence of wooden prototypes from Korea. By analyzing carving techniques, stylistic features, and spatial arrangements, researchers have reconstructed the aesthetic and functional characteristics of North Wei-era pagodas, contributing to a deeper understanding of this pivotal period in East Asian Buddhist art.
Mount Wuyi
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2021 —
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Tourism safety perception mediates the relationship between tourism security factors and traveler intentions, revealing that while security concerns negatively impact travel intentions, they positively influence safety perceptions. The study identifies four key dimensions affecting FIT (Free and Independent Travelers) travel security: safety management environment, tourism environment, travelers themselves, and personnel management. Conducted through a survey of 246 valid respondents at Mount Wuyi in 2018, the research used descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, and linear regression to validate its hypotheses. It concludes with practical measures to mitigate the negative impact of security factors on travel intentions and enhance travelers' safety perceptions.
Mount Taishan
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2021 —
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Mount Tai's landscape elements, particularly 'sunrise,' 'cyan,' 'towering,' and 'majestic,' along with the symbol of the 'Divine Dragon,' are found to embody cultural significance representing hope, vitality, and national stability. Unlike previous research focusing on natural landscapes, Mount Tai is characterized by human activities. The study also reveals a shift in landscape elements from belief-based in Pre-Qin, Sui, and Tang dynasties to experience-based in modern times, marked by actions like climbing and looking into the distance. Spatial distribution analysis shows a transition from a widely scattered distribution centered around Daiding to a narrow linear distribution focused on Mount Tai's summit, providing key insights for future landscape protection and restoration efforts.
Complex of Koguryo Tombs
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2021 —
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A significant evolution in the spatial organization and grandeur of Goguryeo stone mound tombs (3rd–5th centuries CE) is documented, with a shift from dense clustering to more exclusive, hierarchically structured burial zones by the late 4th century. This transformation reflects heightened ritual solemnity, as larger, more elevated tombs—reserved for royalty or elites—emerged alongside smaller, densely packed graves, suggesting a growing emphasis on social differentiation and ceremonial display. The study analyzes spatial patterns (e.g., mound arrangements, burial surface elevations) in the Tonggu Tumuli complex, revealing how these changes interacted with broader landscape perceptions to reinforce Goguryeo's urban and symbolic imagery.
Haeinsa Temple Janggyeong Panjeon, the Depositories for the Tripitaka Koreana Woodblocks
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2021 —
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A rare set of three volumes from the woodblock-printed Tripitaka Koreana, dating to King Sejo's reign (15th century), was identified among the collections of Magoksa Temple. These volumes—part of the Gojoseon edition—include unique texts not commonly found in Korea today, such as sections of the Dapanggangbulhwaeongyeong and Bulsohaengjan. Analysis revealed distinctive features of these volumes, including their large size (29x40 cm), yellow paper covers adorned with lotus patterns, and red silk thread binding. The study also traced Magoksa Temple's historical trajectory, highlighting its growth in the 13th–15th centuries, decline due to conflicts like the Imjin War, and eventual restoration in the mid-17th century, which shaped its current form. This discovery sheds light on the preservation of the Tripitaka Koreana during a critical period of Korean history.
Silk Roads: the Routes Network of Chang'an-Tianshan Corridor
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2021 —
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A novel spatial interpretation strategy for preserving and interpreting the Tang Dynasty Chang'an City Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the starting point of the Silk Roads network, has been developed. This approach integrates potential underground ruins into modern urban development while addressing contradictions between heritage conservation needs and urban growth. By combining archaeological and literary materials, the study explores the relationship between historic urban contexts and contemporary city patterns, emphasizing the importance of spatial interpretation in guiding principles for cultural heritage preservation and land use co-development.
Yin Xu
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2021 —
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A distinctive pattern emerges in the ZhanCi (divination texts) of the He group within Yin Xu's oracle bone inscriptions. Unlike other groups, these divinations omit the opening phrase 'Wang Zhan Yue' and are recorded in a highly simplified form, featuring only positive outcomes ('Ji', 'Da Ji', 'Yin Ji'). The study analyzed 600 oracle bone fragments from the 'Jia gu wen he ji' collection, focusing on formal and content-based aspects. It found that He group divinations differ significantly from those of the Bin and Huang groups, particularly in their brevity and uniformity. Divination records were categorized into five types: sacrificial rites, hunting expeditions, meteorology, military affairs, and agriculture, with notable differences in recording patterns compared to other groups.
Doñana National Park
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2021 —
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A study conducted in Doñana National Park, Spain, revealed shared pathogens between domestic cattle and wild ruminants, including red deer and fallow deer. The research identified seroprevalence of pestiviruses (2.2%), bovine respiratory syncytial virus (11.6%), and bovine herpesvirus 1 (27.5%) exclusively in cattle, suggesting these viruses have epidemiological cycles limited to domestic animals. Additionally, Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex was detected in both cattle (15.9% incidence) and wild ruminants (14.3% seroprevalence), with identical Mycobacterium bovis spoligotypes found across species. This indicates potential cross-species transmission at the domestic-wild interface. The study highlights the need for targeted surveillance to inform control strategies in multi-host epidemiological scenarios.
Socotra Archipelago
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2021 —
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A comprehensive synopsis of the spider beetle (Coleoptera: Ptinidae) fauna in Socotra reveals the discovery of a new genus and two previously unknown species, expanding the known diversity of these insects on the archipelago. The study also documents new localities for four endemic species and one widespread species, Dignomus mesopotamicus, which is shared with Arabia and Mesopotamia. By integrating ecological and biogeographical data, the research provides a detailed overview of Socotra's spider beetle fauna, enhancing our understanding of its unique biodiversity and evolutionary history.
Golestan Palace
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2021 —
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A technical analysis of red paints used in retouching wet-collodion glass plate negatives from the Golestan Palace photo archive, dating back to the mid-19th century Qajar era, reveals that red lead and red iron pigments were employed with precision. These pigments, identified using micro Fourier transform infrared (µ-FTIR), scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), and stereo microscopy, served distinct purposes: red lead was used to cover boundaries, enhance brightness, and bind masking papers, while red iron corrected emulsion defects and ensured a clear background. The binder in all paints was identified as gum Arabic, a natural resin. This study provides valuable insights into the deliberate use of retouching materials during this period, contributing significantly to the understanding and preservation of historical photographic techniques.
Pre-Hispanic City of Teotihuacan
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2021 —
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Lidar technology has uncovered evidence of a Teotihuacan-style complex at the Classic Maya city of Tikal, Guatemala. This complex appears to replicate key architectural features of the Ciudadela and Temple of the Feathered Serpent from Teotihuacan, suggesting significant cultural influence or interaction between these two major Mesoamerican centers during the Classic period (250–600 CE). The discovery challenges previous assumptions about Tikal's independence and underscores its role as a possible hub for Teotihuacan's imperial expansion. Researchers employed lidar to penetrate dense jungle canopy, revealing structural patterns that align with known Teotihuacan designs.
Kremlin and Red Square, Moscow
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2021 —
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Foreign student protests in the USSR during the early 1960s revealed tensions between Soviet internationalism and state authority, challenging the principle of socialist unity. The study highlights three key demonstrations: a Japanese protest against nuclear tests (August 5, 1962), an African demonstration following the death of a Ghanaian student (December 18, 1963), and a Moroccan sit-in at their embassy (March 17, 1964). These incidents exposed divisions within leftist movements and tested Soviet diplomatic responses, particularly during ideological conflicts with China. The research uses archival analysis of these events to demonstrate how state internationalism was compromised by internal and external pressures, offering a case study for understanding socialist statehood's contradictions.
Sundarbans National Park
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2021 —
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Over three decades, the Nijhum Dwip National Park (NDNP), part of the Sundarbans mangrove forest, experienced significant forest cover loss, with more than 42% (1781 ha) deforested between 1990 and 2011. Specifically, nearly 1235 ha and over 856 ha disappeared from an initial 4217.5 ha in 1990 to 2982.5 ha in 2001 and 2126.16 ha in 2011. However, a slight recovery of 310 ha was recorded between 2011 and 2020. The study used Landsat images (1990, 2001, 2011, 2020) with maximum likelihood classification to assess changes, finding that NDVI outperformed SAVI in detecting forest cover shifts. This research highlights the need for continuous monitoring and informed decision-making to protect this critical mangrove ecosystem.
Historic City of Yazd
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2021 —
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A tourism-oriented conservation plan for the historic Shah Abul-Ghasem Neighborhood in Yazd, Iran, has been proposed to balance heritage preservation with sustainable tourism growth. The study identifies key urban design qualities—environmental, functional, and aesthetic-experimental—that can guide conservation efforts while enhancing visitor experiences. Using a field survey approach, researchers categorized architectural and spatial elements through photography, providing actionable recommendations for policymakers and urban planners. This plan aims to preserve Yazd's UNESCO-listed heritage while supporting its role as a cultural tourism destination.
Bryggen
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2021 —
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Recent excavations in the Vågsbunnen area of Bergen, Norway, reveal that water management systems were integral to the town's development from its inception in the 11th century. These findings challenge previous assumptions by demonstrating that strategies for controlling water—such as drainage and regulation—were employed almost immediately during urban settlement. The study combines archaeological material, written sources, and geological data to analyze how specialized water management systems shaped public spaces and facilitated the rapid expansion of medieval Bergen. This research highlights the pivotal role of water in early urban planning, offering new insights into the evolution of one of Norway's historic UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Ellora Caves
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2021 —
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A Walk through the Caves of Ellora offers an evocative and empathetic exploration of the site's intricate sculptures, transcending mere description to convey the emotional depth and artistic mastery embedded in the caves. The work, originally written in Marathi for children by Deshpande and translated into English by Lahiri (2021), combines vivid imagery with scholarly insight, highlighting how the sculptures at Ellora capture profound sentiments. This approach bridges the gap between academic analysis and accessible storytelling, making complex historical and artistic narratives relatable to both experts and a broader audience.
Paphos
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2021 —
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A lead weight unearthed at Nea Paphos, Cyprus, provides a precise dating point for the agora of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The weight bears a Greek inscription mentioning an agoranomos named Seleukos and referencing year 251 of a civic era, later identified as that of Seleucia in Pieria (starting 109/108 BC). This allows the artifact to be dated to AD 142/143. The study argues that the structure where the weight was found may have been an agoranomeion, or market official's office, of Nea Paphos. The research relies on epigraphic analysis and comparative chronology, offering a rare material link between North Syrian city-states and Cyprus in the 2nd century AD.
Historic Centre of Sheki with the Khan’s Palace
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2021 —
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A study on the flowering phase of local pear varieties and their wild forms in Azerbaijan's Sheki-Zagatala region reveals that these can be categorized into three groups based on their mass flowering period: quick, medium-term, and late-flowering sorts. Notably, quick-flowering sorts tend to bloom later than expected, while late-flowering sorts bloom earlier. This temporal diversity positively impacts productivity in the region, particularly during early spring when changeable weather poses risks to pollination and fertilization. The research highlights the direct dependence of pear productivity on the level of pollination and the significance of flowering period diversity for agricultural success.
Historic Centre of Shakhrisyabz
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2021 —
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Recent archaeological research has clarified the localization of the Kesh toponym, aligning it with the present-day Shakhrisabz region. This finding resolves long-standing debates among researchers regarding its correspondence to historical records, particularly concerning the Nautaka area mentioned in written sources. The study leverages recent excavations and textual analysis to demonstrate that Kesh (Shahrisabz) is the most plausible modern location for this ancient toponym. By cross-referencing archaeological evidence with historical texts, the research provides a more precise understanding of the region's historical geography.
Joggins Fossil Cliffs
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2021 —
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A new analysis of Carboniferous deposits at Joggins Fossil Cliffs, Nova Scotia, challenges the long-held assumption that glacio-eustatic cycles drove sedimentation during the Late Paleozoic Ice Age. By applying threshold autoregressive modeling to 474 fluvial aggradational cycles and analyzing lithological variations across 1,655 beds, researchers found no statistically significant cyclicity in sediment thickness, paleosol development, or sandstone content. Instead, the study attributes rapid subsidence and sediment accumulation to halokinetic tectonics—ductile deformation of deep salt deposits—rather than climate-driven processes. This finding suggests that tectonic activity, not glacial cycles, was the primary driver of fluvial sedimentation in the Cumberland Basin, explaining the preservation of coal-rich units and fossil forests along the cliffs.
Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks
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2021 —
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Arctiinae moths exhibit peak abundance and species richness in the early hours of the night, with most species active for only one or two hours. A study conducted in Emas National Park, Brazil, found that 70.5% of the 17 species sampled were highly time-specific in their activity, with the highest abundance recorded at 8 p.m. (44 individuals) and significant declines thereafter. Temperature was the sole environmental variable positively correlated with moth abundance, while relative humidity did not influence species richness. These findings suggest that sampling Arctiinae moths throughout the night is necessary to capture a representative sample of species, challenging the assumption that brief sampling periods suffice for comprehensive biodiversity assessments.
Kaziranga National Park
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2021 —
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A concerning prevalence of multiple-antibiotic-resistant (MAR) Salmonella strains was identified in fecal samples from Indian one-horned rhinos (<em>Rhinoceros unicornis</em>) in Kaziranga National Park, India. The study found that 97.6% of Salmonella isolates exhibited resistance to more than one antibiotic, with 100 isolates from two samples showing resistance to imipenem—a critical last-resort antibiotic. Among these, 52 tested positive for metallo-β-lactamase (MBL) genes, and five carried class 1 integrons, suggesting horizontal gene transfer and potential for widespread resistance. The research used replica plating on antibiotic-containing agar plates and multiplex PCR to detect resistance markers. Given that Salmonella spreads via contaminated water, the findings imply environmental contamination in Kaziranga, posing risks to rhinos and potentially complicating treatment of Salmonellosis outbreaks.
Fanjingshan
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2021 —
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Scientists have identified <em>Acaulospora fanjing</em>, a new species of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) from Fanjingshan, China. This discovery, based on morphological and phylogenetic analyses, highlights its unique reddish-orange spores with distinct wall structures not found in other <em>Acaulospora</em> species. The fungus was associated exclusively with the roots of <em>Acer flabellatum</em> in a dwarf forest ecosystem, marking it as the sole known occurrence site. Phylogenetic studies using an extended DNA barcode confirmed its novel status within the genus. This finding expands the diversity of AMF and underscores the ecological significance of Fanjingshan's unique fungal communities.
Ibiza, Biodiversity and Culture
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2021 —
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A cluster analysis of Ibiza residents revealed five distinct profiles regarding their acceptance of tourist offers, with landscape and heritage-enhancing tourism being the most favored. The study identified clusters ranging from 'Disappointed' to 'Enthusiasts,' highlighting a general rejection of 'all-inclusive' offers and those causing local nuisances, such as nightclubs or high land-consuming developments like golf courses. This approach provides insights into resident preferences for destination development, addressing land-related challenges in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Historic Centre of Camagüey
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2021 —
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A structured plan for the conservation and management of built heritage along Antonio Luaces Street in Camagüey's historic center is proposed, aiming to improve urban image and rescue patrimonial values. The study employs mixed-methods research, including unstructured observations, questionnaires, and interviews with specialists and local residents, to diagnose current conditions and prioritize interventions. Findings highlight the need for organized conservation efforts to address deterioration caused by lack of maintenance and inadequate interventions, contributing to the well-being of the population and sustainable resource management.
Dutch Water Defence Lines
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2021 —
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Visual inspections of flood defenses, the primary method for prioritizing maintenance, exhibit significant variability in detection accuracy and damage severity classification. A study involving 22 inspectors examining four sections of Dutch Water Defence Lines revealed that the Probability of Detection (PoD) varies substantially by both damage type and inspector, with over half of registered damages misclassified in terms of severity compared to a reference standard. This inconsistency likely stems from complex inspection guidelines and task definitions, potentially leading to incorrect maintenance measures and increased flood risk. The study recommends simplifying inspection protocols and focusing on the most critical damage types to improve accuracy and risk-based asset management.
Historic Centre of São Luís
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2021 —
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The historic center of São Luís, particularly the Praia Grande district, lacks adequate accessibility infrastructure for wheelchair users, violating constitutional principles of equality and autonomy. A study analyzing public spaces against Brazil's NBR 9050/2015 standards found significant gaps in accessibility, compromising tourism experiences for people with disabilities. Researchers used qualitative methods, including questionnaires and on-site observations, to assess compliance with accessibility norms. The findings highlight the urgent need for infrastructure improvements to align with legal requirements and promote inclusive tourism.
Taj Mahal
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2021 —
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Acid rain poses a significant threat to the Taj Mahal, accelerating the corrosion of its iconic white marble. This review highlights how increasing air pollution levels, particularly from metropolitan cities like Delhi and Agra, contribute to acidification of rainfall, exacerbating the degradation process. The study examines the chemical mechanisms behind acid rain formation and its detrimental effects on the monument's structural integrity, emphasizing the need for urgent conservation measures to preserve this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Historic Centre of São Luís
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2021 —
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A novel approach to heritage education demonstrates how student-led fieldwork and didactic strategies can deepen the understanding and dissemination of historical and cultural heritage. The study, conducted with students from UFMA’s Human Sciences Licenciatura program, employed three case studies—focusing on Pinheiro, São Luís’ historic center, and Alcântara’s Quilombola community—to create 'living laboratories' that supported memory and storytelling. By involving students in planning, field research, and result dissemination, the project successfully enhanced heritage knowledge and engagement across diverse regions of Baixada Maranhense and Reentrâncias Maranhenses.
Talamanca Range-La Amistad Reserves / La Amistad National Park
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2021 —
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Research on three dominant oak species in Costa Rica's Talamanca Range reveals significant interspecific differences in acorn characteristics, seed germination, and seedling traits along an elevation gradient. Quercus costaricensis, found at higher elevations (2,000–3,200 m), produces larger acorns with higher viability and germination rates compared to Quercus salicifolia and Quercus bumelioides. Despite smaller acorn size in the latter species, their seeds are not less prone to germinate. Seedlings of all species exhibit rapid development of leafy crowns and adventitious root systems, facilitating resource acquisition beyond cotyledons. Notably, Q. costaricensis seedlings have smaller, darker, and thicker leaves, though no differences in leaf mass per area were observed among species. These findings underscore the importance of seed size and environmental heterogeneity in niche segregation and species distribution along elevation gradients.
Archaeological Areas of Pompei, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata
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2021 —
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A novel approach using spherical array microphones has revealed the acoustic characteristics of Pompeii's Roman Amphitheatre, one of the most preserved arenas from antiquity. By analyzing sound intensity through impulse response (IR) overlays on 360° imagery, researchers identified the direction of arriving sound rays without relying solely on structural surfaces. This method offers a new perspective for studying spatial acoustics in historical structures, enhancing our understanding of how ancient architectures influenced sound propagation.
Archaeological Areas of Pompei, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata
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2021 —
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Researchers have mapped sound reflections in the Roman theatre of Pompeii, revealing insights into its acoustic behavior. By employing a multichannel spherical array microphone, they recorded impulse responses that allowed for the creation of an overlay video, combining 360° imagery with sound decay contours. This approach enabled the study of early and late reflections, providing a detailed understanding of sound propagation within this well-preserved monument. The findings adhere to ISO 3382-1 standards for acoustic measurements, offering valuable data on the theatre's reverberation characteristics.
Hanseatic Town of Visby
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2021 —
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Acoustical modeling of St. Lars, a 13th-century church ruin in Visby, Sweden, reveals its potential for musical production with historically accurate acoustics. By reconstructing the church's structure—including walls, vaults, furnishings, and stage setup—the study generated impulse responses that simulate the space's sound characteristics. These were used to create stereo reverb effects for medieval music, demonstrating how such ruins can inspire contemporary musical interpretation. The research highlights the intersection of architectural history, acoustics, and artistic practice, offering a method to preserve and reinterpret the sonic identity of abandoned heritage sites.
Rideau Canal
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A grassroots initiative, the Three Lakes Water Quality Group (TLG), demonstrates significant potential to drive collaborative environmental governance by addressing toxic algal blooms in Canada's Rideau Canal. Through action research involving interviews and workshops, the study reveals that TLG's transdisciplinary approach effectively mobilizes local stakeholders to discuss water quality issues, raising awareness, enforcing policy, and generating knowledge. The findings suggest that leveraging collaborative systems thinking could enhance the group's impact on governance, offering a model for managing similar historic waterways and promoting co-governance efforts.
Sacri Monti of Piedmont and Lombardy
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2021 —
WHE605F5C1277
A collaborative approach integrating digital technologies and local stakeholder involvement has been shown to effectively enhance UNESCO World Heritage Sites, specifically the Sacri Monti of Piedmont and Lombardy. This study demonstrates that Responsible Research Innovation (RRI) can foster socially responsible outcomes by enabling non-professional individuals to envision and contribute to new educational uses of cultural heritage. The methodology leverages digital tools to streamline communication within design processes while promoting collective construction of opportunities, thereby bridging the gap between professional designers and local communities.
Península Valdés
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2021 —
WHE4AFEF0FFF1
Kelp gull micropredation significantly increases respiration rates and alters behavior in southern right whale mother-calf pairs off Península Valdés, Argentina. Even without attacks, whales exhibit ~50% higher respiration rates than undisturbed controls, with calves showing ~25% increases. During attacks, calf respiration spikes an additional 10%, while mothers frequently adopt irregular breathing postures, potentially increasing energy expenditure. Gulls also target previously wounded calves more often. These acute and chronic behavioral changes may have long-term energetic consequences for whale survival and reproduction.
