Historic Centre of Riga
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2021 —
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Digital placemaking emerges as a transformative approach to urban regeneration, bridging digital and physical environments while preserving historic heritage values. This study highlights its potential to foster local community engagement and tourism by leveraging GIS-based platforms and tools in Taipei (Taiwan), Riga (Latvia), and Kaunas (Lithuania). The research demonstrates that digital placemaking can mitigate the loss of place identity and belonging caused by increasing reliance on digital environments. By identifying both tangible and intangible heritage values, it promotes community attraction and tourism potential, though its effectiveness varies with local contexts.
Cathedral, Alcázar and Archivo de Indias in Seville
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2021 —
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A groundbreaking methodology leveraging Historic Building Information Modelling (HBIM) demonstrates the potential for digital preservation of architectural heritage, addressing critical gaps in interoperability and information management. The study focuses on the Pavillion of Charles V in Seville, a UNESCO-listed Renaissance structure, using 3D modeling informed by photogrammetry and laser scanning to create an accurate representation of its flooring and tiling. This approach facilitates collaboration among diverse disciplines involved in conservation, enabling the simulation of past or future conditions while maintaining transparency and data exchange. The research highlights the need for standardized international protocols to manage complex heritage information, offering a scalable solution for documenting and preserving cultural landmarks.
Historic Centre of Siena
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2021 —
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A collaborative effort between researchers and heritage authorities has developed a digital survey and parametric 3D modeling approach to assess the vulnerability of masonry structures, exemplified by the Basilica of San Domenico in Siena. This method integrates advanced techniques to evaluate structural risks, offering a precise tool for conservation planning. The research combines high-resolution imaging with parametric modeling, enabling detailed analysis of material degradation and structural integrity. Such an approach is critical for preserving UNESCO World Heritage Sites, where historical structures face complex challenges due to aging materials and environmental factors.
Medina of Tunis
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2021 —
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Digital urban art, when integrated with historic city centers during democratic transitions, can enhance local identity and create unique visual experiences. A study on the Medina of Tunis found that ephemeral nightlife events, characterized by digital art installations, contribute to a charming atmosphere while preserving cultural heritage. This approach underscores the importance of embracing democratic values in shaping public spaces. The research explores how ICTs are used in historical sites, combining tangible heritage with visual experiences to foster a sense of place and expressionist simulacrum.
Shiretoko
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2021 —
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Female brown bears on the Shiretoko Peninsula experience seasonal fluctuations in body condition, primarily driven by their access to high-lipid pine nuts and high-protein salmon. A six-year study (2012–2018) found that while body condition declined until late August, it began to recover in September when salmon consumption peaked. Years with higher intake of both pine nuts and salmon saw earlier recovery in body condition. Additionally, females with offspring had poorer body condition than solitary ones, especially during low-salmon years. The research used scat analysis (2,079 samples) and photographic measurements (1,226 images from 12 bears) to quantify diet and body condition, revealing the critical role of these unique coastal and subalpine foods in bear survival and reproduction.
Prambanan Temple Compounds
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2021 —
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The Krishnayana story reliefs at Prambanan Temple, traditionally depicting ancient narratives with intricate character designs, already incorporate modern artistic techniques such as layered backgrounds akin to Photoshop, challenging the notion that traditional art remains entirely untouched by contemporary influences. This study reveals how these reliefs can serve as a model for creating photographic works that blend traditional storytelling with modern image grammar, addressing the gap in photographic content innovation often overshadowed by technological advancements. Using qualitative research and visual language analysis, the paper examines the narrative strength of temple reliefs to inform contemporary photographic practices, offering insights into how traditional art can inspire and inform modern digital creation.
Mount Wutai
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2021 —
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Mount Wutai Studies, focusing on Buddhist culture and practices at Mount Wutai in Shanxi Province, China, offers practical insights for epidemic prevention and control, particularly in the context of COVID-19. The research highlights how religious practices, disease treatment, ecological construction, and governance strategies align with anti-epidemic measures, contributing to improved effectiveness in preventing and managing pandemics. This study emphasizes the significance of integrating disciplinary wisdom from religious studies into public health strategies, thereby promoting local development and enhancing people's livelihoods during and after crises like COVID-19.
Mogao Caves
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2021 —
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Cave 254 of the Mogao Grottoes, a Northern Wei Dynasty masterpiece, features the renowned mural 'Laying Down Oneself to Feed the Tiger,' which has undergone significant color transformation over centuries. This study reveals that despite its degraded state, the painting retains exceptional artistic value and unique compositional precision, challenging historical misconceptions about its appearance. By analyzing its layout, colors, and lines through a comparative approach—examining its development across dynasties—the research demonstrates this mural's peak artistic achievement during the Northern Dynasty. The findings underscore its enduring importance for both historical art studies and contemporary painting practices.
Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary
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2021 —
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A new oceanographic sampling grid for the Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary, off Colombia's Pacific coast, has been designed to improve monitoring efficiency. The study, conducted by Parques Nacionales Naturales de Colombia, found that expanding the existing six-station grid to eight stations—spaced 7.41 km (4 nautical miles) apart—better captures spatial variability in sea surface temperature (SST). This was determined using in situ SST data and satellite-derived MODIS-Aqua observations, along with spatial autocorrelation analysis and logistical constraints. The new grid addresses the limitations of the previous design, which had insufficient coverage due to close station spacing and a small sample size for such a large marine protected area.
Gondwana Rainforests of Australia
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2021 —
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A phylogenetic analysis of eight bird taxa endemic to Central Eastern Australia's Gondwana Rainforests reveals disparate origins, with five showing Plio-Pleistocene divergences from northern relatives, indicating recent lowland rainforest expansion and contraction. In contrast, two upland species, the rufous scrub-bird and logrunner, diverged during the Miocene, suggesting longer persistence and temperate origins. Additionally, reciprocal monophyly was not recovered in mitogenomes of Albert’s lyrebird and superb lyrebird. These findings support the rainforests' biota comprising isolates of varying ages and origins.
Pre-Hispanic City and National Park of Palenque
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2021 —
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A 15-year study of black howler monkeys (<em>Alouatta pigra</em>) in Palenque National Park, Mexico, reveals complex and sex-biased dispersal patterns. Using a combination of demographic data from six groups and genetic sampling from 20 groups (169 individuals), researchers found that males disperse more frequently but over shorter distances compared to females, who disperse farther. Both sexes can immigrate into established groups or form new ones, either singly or in pairs, indicating multiple dispersal trajectories. The study highlights the importance of long-term research to understand the demographic, ecological, and social factors influencing these decisions.
Peking Man Site at Zhoukoudian
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2021 —
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Archaeological evidence from the Peking Man Site at Zhoukoudian and other Late Acheulean–Mousterian sites reveals that ritualistic bone cults emerged around 400,000 to 200,000 years ago, marking a pivotal shift in human spiritual evolution. These findings challenge earlier assumptions by demonstrating that symbolic bone artifacts—used for magical rites—predate the Mousterian era, indicating an early stage of religious thought tied to animistic beliefs about life and vitality. The study analyzes carved bones and skull burials (e.g., Zhoukoudian, Ngandonga) to argue that while intuitive supernatural awareness may have existed earlier, ritualized practices formalizing these ideas began in the late Acheulean period. This research suggests that bone cults were among the first sacred artifacts, bridging material and transcendent realms through symbolic compositions and rituals.
Old Havana and its Fortification System
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2021 —
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A dominant factor in tourists' dissatisfaction with Old Havana is the management of hygiene, cleanliness, and crowding. This dissatisfaction significantly impacts both overall satisfaction with cultural trips and future revisitation intentions. The study employed a covariance-based structural equations model (CB-SEM) to analyze data from 1500 tourists, revealing that negative perceptions in these areas are critical for managers aiming to enhance tourist satisfaction and loyalty in cultural tourism contexts.
Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary
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2021 —
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Researchers identified distinct patterns in ichthyoplankton distribution, composition, and abundance across three Colombian Pacific marine protected areas: Sanquianga National Natural Park (coastal), Gorgona National Natural Park (intermediate), and Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary (oceanic). The study, conducted during November 2009, found that Sanquianga exhibited the highest larval fish abundance (1,553 larvae/10m²) with Engraulidae as the dominant family, while Gorgona showed greater taxonomic diversity (52 species across 29 families), and Malpelo recorded the lowest abundance (191 larvae/10m²). Non-metric multidimensional scaling analysis confirmed clear differences in community composition among sites. The findings suggest that environmental factors, including elevated temperatures linked to an El Niño event, may have influenced larval fish distribution. Notably, Engraulidae eggs were detected for the first time at Malpelo, potentially indicating shifts in oceanic currents.
Sanganeb Marine National Park and Dungonab Bay – Mukkawar Island Marine National Park
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2021 —
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A study conducted along the Sudanese Red Sea coast revealed that Dungonab Bay, a protected marine area, exhibits the highest species richness and functional diversity of fish, as well as the highest catch rates when compared to other regions. This suggests that northern areas closer to Dungonab Bay are more pristine than those near Port Sudan, which is closer to major human population centers. The research, spanning three surveys from 2012-2013, used baited traps and gillnets to sample fish assemblages across various reef habitats, providing a critical baseline for understanding biodiversity and fish abundance in this region. These findings underscore the importance of ecosystem-based management to preserve these resources before irreversible impacts occur.
Península Valdés
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2021 —
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Research identifies five distinct environmental units within Península Valdés, each characterized by unique darkling beetle assemblages and species diversity. Temperature, precipitation, and soil texture emerged as the most influential determinants of these distribution patterns. The findings suggest that ecosystem processes may vary significantly among these units, underscoring the need for targeted conservation efforts to protect this biodiversity-rich region in Argentinean Patagonia.
Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island
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2021 —
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Research on Amami-Oshima Island reveals that the genus Tadarida (Molossidae) bats predominantly inhabit southern and western coastal regions, favoring open areas with fewer obstacles. This preference is linked to higher land use in these zones, suggesting that mosaics of forests and open spaces are crucial for their foraging behavior. The study, conducted via acoustic surveys from May 2018 to February 2020, also highlights the need for improved forest quality in northern regions to support bat populations by providing essential food resources and open areas for flight.
The Great Wall
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2021 —
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Research reveals that the Juyong Pass defense area, a key Ming Dynasty stronghold near Beijing, had its military resources disproportionately concentrated in the western part of the Great Wall, forming a secondary core alongside the pass city. This finding challenges current conservation efforts, which focus solely on Juyong Pass, thereby undermining the heritage's integrity. The study applied spatial analysis to a military settlements database, identifying that over half of the defense area's resources were allocated to the western region. By mapping the distribution of cultural heritage, the research aims to guide sustainable preservation practices that respect historical spheres of control and integrate resources along the Great Wall's significant cultural routes.
Western Tien-Shan
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2021 —
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Research reveals critical insights into the distribution and conservation status of six rare endemic plant species in the Syrdarya Karatau and Western Tien-Shan regions, highlighting their ecological significance within UNESCO-recognized landscapes. The study maps specific growth points and analyzes floristic communities involving these species, including Tanacetopsis popovii, Trichanthemis radiata, Hypacanthium echinopifolium, Lepidolopha karatavica, L. talassica, Tulipa lemmersii, and others. It provides detailed assessments of endemism levels, updates morphological descriptions, and reports on successful primary introductions of two species—Trichanthemis radiata and Tulipa lemmersii—in Almaty city conditions. The findings underscore the fragility of these populations and their unique adaptations, offering a foundation for targeted conservation strategies in this biodiversity hotspot.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
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2021 —
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A study of Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia, reveals that naturally occurring radionuclides and 137Cs exhibit significant variability across different lakes, likely due to underlying geological differences. The research found that 210 Pb in sediments indicates an allochthonous contribution of up to 312 Bq kg −1 at the watercourse's beginning, decreasing downstream. Low 40 K activity concentrations (27.5 ± 20.1 mBq L −1) in lake waters may contribute to higher 137 Cs levels in fish (1.5 ± 0.4 Bq kg −1), which are an order of magnitude above average values for Croatian freshwater systems. The study also highlights that site-specific data significantly impact radiological dose assessments, with water activity concentrations leading to notably higher dose rates than sediment-based ones. Additionally, the incremental dose rate from 137 Cs was found to be negligible compared to background levels.
Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu
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2021 —
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Fukugi (Garcinia subelliptica) trees, native to the Ryukyu Archipelago, serve as cultural keystone species, shaping island landscapes and community identity while providing critical ecosystem services. These evergreen windbreaks, traditionally planted for coastal protection, also hold deep spiritual significance in sacred sites. Field surveys and interviews revealed their multifaceted roles—from timber during hardships to symbolic representations in cities—and highlighted a generational shift in cultural appreciation. The study underscores Fukugi's ecological and socio-cultural importance, advocating for conservation strategies that balance restoration with the preservation of old-growth trees to sustain Ryukyu's unique heritage.
Gochang, Hwasun and Ganghwa Dolmen Sites
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2021 —
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A groundbreaking analysis of dolmen distribution at Bugokri, Gochang, reveals that prehistoric societies encoded astronomical knowledge into their megalithic structures. Researchers discovered that dolmens and dolmen clusters were deliberately arranged to mirror the Big Dipper constellation, with a central peak (Sirubong) serving as an alignment marker for the North Star. This finding challenges the conventional view of dolmens solely as burial sites, instead presenting them as sophisticated celestial records reflecting ancient astronomical observation and cosmological beliefs. By comparing dolmen stone holes with star maps and solar calendars, the study demonstrates a sophisticated integration of natural science and humanities in prehistoric life, suggesting that dolmen complexes functioned as tangible representations of the night sky on Earth.
Virgin Komi Forests
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2021 —
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Rare ephemeroid plant species, including Anemone altaica and Gagea samojedorum, face significant population decline at the edges of their distribution areas due to ecological constraints and limited reproductive success. Gagea samojedorum, an endemic Ural species, maintains high reproduction rates through vegetative variability, while other species show reduced seed and vegetative reproduction. The study mapped 44 coenopopulations across the Komi Republic, revealing fragmented habitats in river floodplains and moist forests, where these species form ecotopical assemblages. Anthropogenic impacts are minimal, with natural abiotic and biotic factors posing greater threats to their survival. All studied species are listed in regional Red Books (Category 3: rare), emphasizing the urgent need for conservation efforts, particularly within UNESCO's Virgin Komi Forests.
Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island
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2021 —
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A study analyzing diuron concentrations along the shorelines of Ishigaki and Iriomote Islands, part of Japan's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, found generally low levels (≤32 ng l⁻¹) of this herbicide, with no evidence of toxicity to organisms. The highest concentrations were detected at a fishing port in Iriomote Island (32 ng l⁻¹) and a mooring point in Ishigaki Island (19 ng l⁻¹), suggesting contamination likely from antifouling paints used on boats. A notable concentration (14 ng l⁻¹) was also found in the estuary of Arakawa River, hinting at potential land-based sources. The study, conducted in September 2019, indicates localized contamination but reassures low environmental impact during the sampling period.
Sacred Island of Okinoshima and Associated Sites in the Munakata Region
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2021 —
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Landscape designation approaches to cultural heritage differ significantly between the UK and Japan, with Japan's methods potentially offering more effective strategies for managing landscape change and loss due to climate change. The study compares these approaches through a case analysis of UNESCO World Heritage Site designations in both countries. It highlights how the UK's dualistic governmental structures prioritize certain attributes over others, as seen in the Lake District's inscription and the Glover Report. Japan's approach, examined via Okinoshima, demonstrates alternative strategies that may better address landscape preservation challenges.
Royal Hill of Ambohimanga
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Urban sacred natural sites, which are found globally and provide both spiritual and ecological benefits, face increasing pressure from urbanization. Despite their diversity across cultures—spanning locations like Swayambhu (Nepal), Meiji Jingu (Japan), Ambohimanga (Madagascar), and Krakus Mound (Poland)—these sites share common features such as sacred tree species and symbolic boundary markers. Some, including Ambohimanga, have been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which has boosted tourism but also highlighted the need for conservation strategies that account for their multifaceted roles, serving local ceremonies, residents, and visitors alike. The study emphasizes the importance of recognizing the varied management systems and stakeholders associated with these sites to ensure their long-term preservation.
Discovery Coast Atlantic Forest Reserves
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2021 —
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A study of the Discovery Coast Atlantic Forest Reserves revealed that roadkill significantly impacts bat diversity, with 773 individuals from 47 species—nearly 40% of known Atlantic Forest bat species—found dead along a 25 km stretch of highway BR-101 between 2010 and 2015. Insectivorous bats, which constitute the majority (74%), were particularly vulnerable, with open-flying species accounting for 41.9% of roadkill cases. The research found no seasonal variation in mortality but noted a negative correlation between rainy days and roadkill rates. Foot-based monitoring proved more effective than vehicle-based surveys, while speed limits below 60 km/h reduced bat fatalities. This study highlights the severe conservation threat posed by roadkill to Neotropical bat populations.
Rio de Janeiro: Carioca Landscapes between the Mountain and the Sea
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2021 —
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A study in the Tijuca Forest, Rio de Janeiro, reveals that microhabitat diversity significantly enhances local biodiversity of benthic invertebrates. The research found that litter and stone microhabitats supported higher taxonomic richness and diversity compared to sand, which exhibited the highest dominance. Chironomidae emerged as the most abundant family among 9,800 specimens collected using a Surber sampler across three microhabitat types. Statistical analyses confirmed significant differences in community structure indices (abundance, taxonomic richness, diversity, and dominance) and microhabitat composition. The findings underscore the importance of varied microhabitats in promoting biodiversity, even within urban forest streams.
Forest Research Institute Malaysia Forest Park Selangor
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2021 —
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A study comparing freshwater fish diversity between man-made and natural forests in Selangor, Malaysia, found that the species composition of fish in the Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) campus was 82% similar to that of an adjacent natural forest reserve. The research, conducted using backpack electro-fishing and scoop nets along transect lines, recorded 10 species across six families, with Cyprinidae being the most abundant. Shannon-Wiener diversity indices revealed higher fish diversity in Sungai Chemubong (H = 1.283) compared to Sungai Kroh (H = 1.097), while evenness was also highest in Sungai Chemubong (E = 0.5098). Notably, no fish were found in Sungai Cahaya, limiting the study's scope. The findings suggest that man-made forests can support stable freshwater ecosystems comparable to natural ones.
Papahānaumokuākea
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2021 —
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Researchers have identified two new species of small red algae, Psaromenia laulamaula and Meredithia hawaiiensis, within the family Kallymeniaceae, previously undocumented in Hawaiian waters. These discoveries were made through surveys of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM) and Main Hawaiian Islands (MHI), combining morphological and molecular analyses. Psaromenia laulamaula is distinguished by its large, solitary blades found exclusively at mesophotic depths (83–94 m), while Meredithia hawaiiensis exhibits high morphological plasticity, occurring in both shallow (0–17 m) and mesophotic zones (55 m). The study highlights the underappreciated biodiversity of Kallymeniaceae in Hawaiian reefs, particularly at deeper, less-explored depths. This research underscores the importance of integrating molecular techniques to unravel cryptic diversity in marine macroalgal floras.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
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Researchers discovered that cave bacteria from Carlsbad Caverns National Park produce siderophores, microbially-produced ferric iron chelators, to survive in nutrient-limited environments. The study identified 64% of bacterial cultures as siderophore producers, with the majority producing hydroxamate-type siderophores. These findings support the hypothesis that siderophores are a critical mechanism for cave bacteria to obtain essential ferric iron. The study used long-term (10–11 years) and short-term (1–3 days) parent cultures inoculated with ferromanganese deposits and carbonate secondary minerals from Lechuguilla and Spider caves, classifying producers using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Siderophore production was more prevalent in short-term cultures, which also showed a higher proportion of strong producers compared to long-term cultures.
Royal Court of Tiébélé
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2021 —
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A comparative study of termite diversity in the Royal Court of Tiébélé, Burkina Faso, revealed that 93.5% of the 77 huts examined were affected by termite damage, with varying intensities. The research identified five species belonging to three subfamilies (Macrotermitinae, Termitinae, and Nasutermitinae) and five genera, indicating a significant impact on the royal court's wooden structures. Termites were found to originate from nearby wood transport areas, suggesting potential for localized control strategies. The study employed standard belt transect methods and systematic searches across three ecosystems—royal court huts, Khaya senegalensis reserve, and an agricultural zone—to assess termite diversity and their entry into the huts.
Nyungwe National Park
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Rwanda's national parks—Volcanoes, Akagera, Nyungwe, and Gishwati-Mukura—exhibit significant geographical diversity that supports nature-based tourism as a vital economic driver. The study highlights how these parks' unique landscapes, from volcanic features to dense forests, contribute to tourism development while benefiting local communities, entrepreneurs, and the national economy. Using secondary data (literature, reports) and primary fieldwork—including interviews with park staff during a 2020 seminar—the research underscores the importance of sustainable tourism in overpopulated regions. Key findings emphasize the economic impact of nature-based tourism while recommending further exploration of community-based tourism, environmental awareness, and responsible tourism practices in Rwanda.
Forest Research Institute Malaysia Forest Park Selangor
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2021 —
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A comparative analysis of fish gut microbes in undisturbed and disturbed peat swamp forests in North Selangor, Malaysia, revealed distinct bacterial community profiles and potential biomarker genes linked to human diseases. The study identified Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Fusobacteria, and Actinobacteria as predominant phyla, with metagenomic predictions indicating functional genes associated with metabolism, environmental processing, and disease pathways. Six potential biomarkers were detected, including genes related to chronic myeloid leukemia in undisturbed areas and infections like Vibrio cholerae and Staphylococcus aureus in disturbed areas. This suggests the fish gut microbiome could serve as an indicator of ecosystem health, highlighting the impact of habitat degradation on microbial diversity and functional genes.
Lake Turkana National Parks
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A long-standing capacity for managing ecological uncertainty underpins the Turkana people's ability to adapt to rapid economic and environmental changes. This study reveals that their livelihood transformations—shifts in practices, interdependencies, and mobility patterns—are not responses to instability but rather manifestations of a deep-rooted resilience. Through long-term ethnographic fieldwork, researchers analyzed how diverse forms of knowledge have been integrated over time to navigate variability, offering insights into sustainable adaptation strategies for regions facing radical ecological shifts.
Ogasawara Islands
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2021 —
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A new coral barnacle species, Cantellius alveoporae sp. nov., has been discovered exclusively associated with the high-latitude coral Alveopora japonica in southern Korea. This specialist species was identified through DNA-based diversity assessment, including COI and 12S DNA sequencing, revealing it as distinct from previously described Cantellius euspinulosum and other cryptic species. The study also confirmed that C. euspinulosum, a generalist barnacle found across the Indo-Pacific, is morphologically and genetically distinct from its Korean counterpart. Additionally, the research identified at least five cryptic species within the C. euspinulosum complex, some of which are also specialists on specific coral genera. The findings highlight the importance of molecular studies in unraveling hidden biodiversity, particularly in marine ecosystems like the Ogasawara Islands.
Hubei Shennongjia
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Situations significantly enhance the environmentally responsible behaviors (ERB) of national park visitors, particularly when combined with environmental knowledge. A study at Shennongjia National Park, Hubei Province, China, found that situational factors—such as exposure to educational materials, interpretation, and staff guidance—moderate the relationship between visitor knowledge and ERB. This suggests targeted interventions, like interpretive programs or staff training, could effectively promote sustainable practices among visitors. The research builds on situational cognition theory, offering actionable insights for balancing ecological protection with visitor education in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Historic Centre of Oporto, Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar
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Approximately one in five visitors to the Historic Centre of Porto (HCP) report feelings of insecurity, primarily due to concerns about robbery and theft. These perceptions are influenced by factors such as nationality, education level, criminal activity awareness, policing adequacy, satisfaction with law enforcement, and the duration of time spent in the area—whether for living, studying, or working. The study, based on responses from 554 participants, identified robbery, theft, and drug trafficking as the most common crimes perceived by visitors, while incivilities also contributed to a sense of unease. To address these concerns, the research suggests targeted measures that could enhance security perceptions in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Petroglyphs of Lake Onega and the White Sea
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Photogrammetry emerges as a superior method for documenting the Kanozero petroglyphs, surpassing traditional contact techniques in precision and efficiency. This study demonstrates that photogrammetric methods enable high-resolution 3D reconstructions of petroglyphs, preserving intricate details without physical contact. The approach significantly reduces wear on fragile surfaces while providing scalable documentation for archaeological analysis. By comparing photogrammetry with conventional methods, the research highlights its advantages in accuracy, non-destructive data capture, and adaptability to diverse environmental conditions.
Fujisan, sacred place and source of artistic inspiration
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A pilot study on Mount Fuji reveals that changes in barometric pressure during ascent, combined with sleep quality factors such as sleepiness and refreshment, significantly influence the risk of acute mountain sickness (AMS). The research surveyed 353 trekkers, finding a 41.4% prevalence of AMS at the summit. Using logistic regression, the study identified three key predictors: barometric pressure changes per hour, sleepiness upon waking, and perceived sleep refreshment. These findings suggest that climbers can mitigate AMS risk by maintaining better physical condition and monitoring barometric conditions, though overnight stays at mid-altitude lodges did not necessarily reduce AMS incidence across age or sex groups up to 3776 meters.
Mount Wuyi
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Positive interactions between residents and tourists at Mount Wuyi significantly enhance tourists' environmentally responsible behavior, primarily through the mediation of gratitude. The study found that highly agreeable tourists experienced stronger effects, with positive contact leading to greater gratitude and, consequently, more pro-environmental actions. This suggests that fostering positive resident-tourist relationships can be an effective strategy for promoting sustainable tourism practices.
Selimiye Mosque and its Social Complex
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Architect Koca Sinan's innovative use of multi-support systems—four, six, and eight supports—in his mosque designs, particularly in the Selimiye Mosque and its Social Complex, revolutionized Ottoman architectural engineering. This study highlights how Sinan's structural approach to domes, incorporating elements like pendants and squinches, allowed for unprecedented stability and aesthetic complexity. By analyzing specific examples such as the Süleymaniye, Kadırga Sokullu Mehmet Pasha, and Edirne Selimiye mosques, the research demonstrates Sinan's mastery in balancing load distribution across different geometric foundations (square, hexagonal, octagonal). The findings underscore his contribution to Islamic architecture, blending technical precision with artistic innovation.
Historic City of Trogir
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A re-evaluation of the earliest preserved memorial text linked to Trogir’s 6th-century octagonal church, St. Mary de Platea, challenges its long-held belief as a genuine early medieval document. Through rigorous analysis of textual transmission, historiographic interpretations, and archaeological context, this study concludes that the text was artificially constructed in the 15th century by Trogir’s communal elite, later formalized in writing during the 16th century. The research redefines the church as a 9th-century structure, later repurposed into a communal church (ecclesia communis) during the High Middle Ages. The study highlights how this fabricated narrative served to create an illusion of continuous communal patronage over the centuries.
Vézelay, Church and Hill
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The Zodiac, as an iconographic formula inherited from antiquity, was widely used in 12th and 13th-century church decorations, particularly in France and Italy, to visually represent time and space. This study reveals that the Zodiac, often paired with the Labours of the Months, serves as a structured way to illustrate the passage of earthly time leading to eternal salvation. It demonstrates how this iconography, employed on portals like those at Vézelay and Autun, provides a formulaic representation of time, integrating graphic, liturgical, and social dimensions. The research analyzes the visual devices—such as radial arcs, arcades, and concentric circles—used to normalize classificatory imagery in manuscripts and ecclesial art, showing how these cycles function as an encyclopedic tool for memory and sovereignty attribute for Christ.
Komodo National Park
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Tourism to Komodo National Park (KNP) in Indonesia, often touted as ecotourism, fails to meet sustainability ideals despite minimal ecological disturbance. While financial contributions to conservation barely cover operational costs, potential revenue could be significantly increased by adjusting fees. Independent tourists contribute more to the local economy than package or cruise passengers, who provide negligible benefits due to the enclave nature of their operations. The study highlights that current tourism models in KNP reflect traditional patterns rather than sustainable ecotourism principles, emphasizing the need for ongoing evaluation and reorientation toward true sustainability. This research offers a cost-effective template for assessing nature-based tourism impacts, applicable globally.
Kinabalu Park
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A survey conducted in Kadamaian, Kinabalu Park, Sabah, during the Borneo Geographic Expedition 2019, recorded 23 species of dragonflies and damselflies (Odonata) across nine families. Notably, one species, Pericnemis dowi, was identified as a new record for Kinabalu Park, bringing the total known Odonata species in the park to 71. The survey, conducted at altitudes ranging from 400 m to 850 m above sea level, highlights the biodiversity of this lower-altitude region within the park. This study underscores the need for further exploration to comprehensively document the Odonata fauna of Kinabalu Park.
Cathedral, Alcázar and Archivo de Indias in Seville
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2021 —
WHE413C3DCCA7
Research reveals that San Ildefonso’s Baths, located in the historical center of Seville, was one of the most significant bathing complexes in the city during the 13th century. The study, based on previously unpublished data from a 1542 book of descriptive records, reconstructs the baths' layout and architectural features through innovative graphic transformation methods. Findings indicate that despite its historical importance, the complex became obsolete by the 18th century and was subsequently demolished. This work provides new insights into the typology, dimensions, and spatial organization of a lost architectural heritage site within Seville's UNESCO-listed Cathedral, Alcázar, and Archivo de Indias.
Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove
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2021 —
WHE250E0D01A5
A comparative study of three sacred groves in southwest Nigeria—Osun-Osogbo (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Idanre Hills (a Nigerian National Monument), and Igbo-Olodumare (a local cultural site)—reveals that the coexistence of customary institutions and formal governance arrangements enhances biodiversity conservation, socio-economic benefits, and religio-cultural significance. The research found that traditional norms, reinforced by government legislation, ensure compliance with conservation laws, particularly where traditional practices are weak or disregarded. This hybrid management approach, combining community-based conservation with formal oversight, provides a robust framework for the long-term preservation of sacred groves and their biodiversity. The study also highlights the growing potential of cultural tourism as an additional socioeconomic reward. Data were collected through mixed-methods, including semi-structured questionnaires (n=167), key informant interviews (n=2), and focus groups (n=7), involving local community members, traditional priests, devotees, and tourism officials.
Chaîne des Puys - Limagne fault tectonic arena
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2021 —
WHECA1DB44DFE
A novel sectorial approach to analyzing scoria cones in the Chaîne des Puys (France) reveals that most cones exhibit asymmetry and elongation, with lithology influencing shape more than age. This DTM-based morphometric study contrasts classic descriptors with detailed slope distributions, uncovering systematic trends in cone symmetry and morphology. While regression models show partial success in linking parameters to age, further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between lithology, shape, and symmetry.
Jesuit Block and Estancias of Córdoba
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2021 —
WHE362582A527
Two women defied societal norms of their time by managing a cattle ranch (estancia) for over 50 years, challenging traditional gender roles and expanding beyond domestic spaces. The study examines the strategies they employed to overcome these constraints and analyzes how their legacy was shaped in the collective imagination from 1912 to 1966. By focusing on biographical trajectories, this research sheds light on the resilience of women in rural Córdoba, Argentina, during a period marked by strict gender norms.
