Salonga National Park
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2013 —
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A comprehensive list of 152 fish species, including nine potentially new taxa, has been documented from the Luilaka, Salonga, and Yenge Rivers around Salonga National Park, Africa's largest protected area. This study addresses a significant gap in knowledge regarding the ichthyofauna of the Congo basin, particularly in the central region where taxonomic and distributional data are scarce. The findings provide a foundational dataset for future research, though the authors acknowledge its likely incompleteness due to limited sampling efforts.
Papahānaumokuākea
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2013 —
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Classic atolls with islands on shallow rims are more vulnerable to the combined effects of sea-level rise and storm waves, leading to earlier and more severe inundation than predicted by passive models. This study compared dynamic inundation models—accounting for wave-induced set-up and run-up—to passive 'bathtub' models using Midway Atoll (shallow rim) and Laysan Island (deep rim). Findings revealed that sea-level rise increases wave heights and wavelengths, amplifying run-up despite reduced set-up. Dynamic modeling showed substantial inundation at lower sea-level rise thresholds than passive models, suggesting infrastructure and ecosystems on shallow-rim atolls face heightened risks sooner in the 21st century.
Archaeological Site of Volubilis
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2013 —
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Contrary to the long-held assumption that the Arab conquests (7th–8th centuries) were catastrophic for North African society, archaeological evidence reveals a more nuanced picture. Most Byzantine urban centers, including Volubilis, persisted as significant hubs rather than being abandoned. Rural landscapes remained active, with estates, farms, and fortified villages indicating sustained economic activity. Case studies of Tocra, Sbeïtla, and Volubilis—analyzing fortifications, religious structures (churches and mosques), housing, and production—challenge the notion of abrupt societal collapse. The study suggests that Arab rule in North Africa was more complex than previously thought, with urban continuity and rural resilience shaping early medieval Ifrīqiya.
Plantin-Moretus House-Workshops-Museum Complex
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2013 —
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Garden archaeology, a discipline distinct from traditional archaeology, has been successfully applied in Europe for two decades but only recently introduced in Flanders. This study presents the first two garden archaeology excavations in Flanders, focusing on the 18th-century Neue Garten at Alden Biesen and the early 17th-century garden within the Plantin-Moretus Museum complex. The research demonstrates that garden archaeology is more than a tool for reconstruction, providing substantial expertise in this multidisciplinary field. By investigating the layout of tuinpaden (garden paths) and traces of historical gardens, the study showcases its potential to uncover architectural and biological remains, offering valuable insights into the design and history of these spaces.
Göbekli Tepe
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2013 —
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Research at Göbekli Tepe reveals that Persian gazelles exhibited migratory behavior during the early Neolithic period, with seasonal presence aligning with human activities such as feasting and rituals. Stable isotope analysis of carbon, oxygen, and strontium in gazelle teeth and bones, combined with zooarchaeological data, suggests that high game density in the southern Anti-Taurus piedmont coincided with human gatherings at this significant ritual center. This finding provides insights into the ecological and behavioral dynamics of gazelles during a pivotal period in human cultural history, offering a unique perspective on the interplay between early human societies and their environment.
Huascarán National Park
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2013 —
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A study on the emblematic Puya raimondii, a giant Andean bromeliad found in Huascarán National Park, Peru, reveals significant genetic differentiation among its populations despite long-distance dispersal. Researchers analyzed 60 individuals using AFLP profiles with four selective primer combinations, detecting 172 bands, of which 79.1% were polymorphic loci. The findings suggest that gene flow occurs between populations located in different mountain systems, indicating long-distance dispersal capabilities. This insight is crucial for developing effective conservation strategies to preserve the genetic diversity of this iconic species, emphasizing the need to account for exchange between geographically distant populations.
Socotra Archipelago
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2013 —
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The Socotra Archipelago's geological and morphological evolution has significantly influenced its biogeographical development. Research indicates that the last substantial uplift of the Haggier Mountains on Socotra occurred at the end of the Miocene Epoch (9-6 Ma BP), potentially enabling species migration across narrowed channels. This uplift, combined with periodic sea level changes during the Quaternary Period, exposed parts of the Socotra platform, facilitating biota dispersal. However, persistent channels in the Brothers basin acted as barriers, preventing modern species invasion and contributing to the archipelago's unique biota differences. The study integrates geological data from the Gulf of Aden to reconstruct terrestrial migration pathways, providing insights into the archipelago's isolation and its implications for biodiversity.
Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park
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2013 —
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Environmental governance initiatives on Palawan Island, Philippines, are reshaping local swidden farming practices through a process termed 'green governmentality.' This study reveals how technical knowledge and sustainability narratives, deployed by diverse institutions, influence Tagbanua farmers to shift from long fallow cultivation to permanent agriculture. While governmental discourse is flexibly interpreted, it systematically reinforces swidden decline, increasing livelihood risks and marginalization. The research combines case studies with spatial analysis to demonstrate the convergence of global governance agendas with local political economies, highlighting unintended social and environmental consequences.
Hatra
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2013 —
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Hatra offers unprecedented insights into the late Parthian Empire and its complex relationships with Rome. This publication synthesizes contributions from leading experts, revealing Hatra's strategic position as a cultural and religious crossroads between two great empires. Through archaeological evidence, it reconstructs the city's history, highlighting its unique blend of eastern and western influences despite its political affiliation with Parthia. The research employs a multidisciplinary approach, combining historical analysis, architectural studies, and cultural assessments to elucidate Hatra's significance in shaping late-Parthian civilization.
Lamu Old Town
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2013 —
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Heritage tourism can significantly contribute to sustainable urban conservation and development, particularly in historic areas like Lamu Old Town. This study argues that community and culture-led management approaches are the most effective for balancing tourism with heritage preservation. By leveraging tourism's potential, historical settlements can mitigate the erosion of architectural identity and socio-cultural heritage, which is critical for maintaining quality urban life. The research explores conflicts between urban conservation, heritage, and tourism, advocating for a sustainable model that integrates these elements while preserving local identity.
Derwent Valley Mills
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2013 —
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Curating museum exhibitions effectively to engage visitors with historical objects is challenging, especially when balancing the need for informative interpretation without overwhelming or boring audiences. The 'Enlightenment' exhibition at Derby Museums (2013) tackled this by displaying 18th-century objects—such as trade-related items and natural history artifacts—in a way that highlighted their significance while maintaining visitor interest. Funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, the project involved three institutions (Derby Museums, Buxton Museum, and Strutt’s North Mill) to enrich collections and contextualize Derbyshire's Enlightenment period within the UNESCO-listed Derwent Valley Mills site. The exhibition aimed to link objects like a polar bear plate to themes of trade, fashion, and natural history, demonstrating how strategic curation can bridge academic depth and public engagement.
Vézelay, Church and Hill
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2013 —
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At Vézelay, the sculpted images of Jews reflect a unique duality—simultaneously condemning and offering redemption. This ambivalence, likely influenced by Pierre de Montboissier, challenges the Western Christian notion of 'Otherness' that equated non-Christians with infidels. The study reveals how the abbey’s iconography at Sainte-Marie-Madeleine presents Jews as part of a broader redeemable community, akin to pagans, if they embrace conversion. This oscillation between blame and salvation is embedded in the Romanesque stonework, illustrating the tension between communal identity (oratores, laboratores, bellatores) and individual agency in medieval society.
Heritage of Mercury. Almadén and Idrija
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2013 —
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A participatory process has successfully integrated mercury heritage into the development strategy of Idrija, Slovenia, demonstrating its potential as a key driver for municipal growth while preserving authenticity. The study highlights the importance of inclusive planning that engages all stakeholders and bridges sectoral divides to ensure sustainable and harmonious development. This approach, developed through collaborative efforts, sets a precedent for balancing heritage conservation with economic progress in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Fatehpur Sikri
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2013 —
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Stone quarries significantly degrade groundwater quality and pose health risks in Fatehpur Sikri, India. Research reveals elevated fluoride levels (1.7–3.8 mg/l in shallow aquifers) near quarries, linked to dental and skeletal fluorosis. While deep aquifers are more saline overall, shallow ones exhibit higher concentrations of hazardous chemicals like Na+, K+, Cl−, and F−. The study, based on water samples collected in 2012–2013, demonstrates that quarrying activities directly and indirectly contaminate groundwater, exacerbating salinity and fluoride levels—especially near active quarries. This finding underscores the environmental and public health consequences of unregulated quarrying in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Residences of the Royal House of Savoy
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2013 —
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Geographical Information Systems (GIS) can effectively support the management of UNESCO World Heritage Sites by integrating multidisciplinary landscape analysis, but risks of ambiguity arise when combining descriptive and management-oriented data. A study on the 'Residences of the Royal House of Savoy' demonstrates that GIS must balance holistic interpretative layers with precise spatial representation to facilitate connections beyond administrative boundaries. The approach highlights historic, scenic, and environmental relationships while addressing challenges in geographical representation.
Temple of Preah Vihear
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2013 —
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A landmark 2013 interpretation by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on its 1962 judgment regarding the Temple of Preah Vihear revealed a shift toward greater flexibility in revisiting judicial reasoning under Article 60 of the ICJ Statute. While the Court reaffirmed its strict approach to interpreting previous judgments, it also disavowed a narrow definition of 'inseparable' reasons from operative clauses and acknowledged that 'essential' elements could be subject to reinterpretation. This suggests potential future flexibility in how the Court handles such requests, balancing stability in international relations with adaptability. The study argues that intermediate conclusions from prior judgments should remain open to interpretation under Article 60, challenging traditional legal boundaries.
Island of Gorée
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2013 —
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Zephaniah Kingsley Jr. (1765–1843), a transatlantic figure with ties to the Island of Gorée, stands out for his complex legacy as a slave trader, plantation owner, and advocate for manumission. His life bridges England, South Carolina, and Canada, culminating in a controversial yet transformative role in Haiti. A key discovery is the documentation of his unorthodox marital arrangements, including his relationship with Anta Majigeen Ndiaye, a Wolof woman from Senegal who was enslaved at age 13 after her village was raided. Purchased by Kingsley in Havana in 1806 and emancipated in Florida in 1811, Anta became a planter and slave owner herself, challenging traditional narratives of the era. The study reconstructs this transatlantic journey, from Gorée to Cuba and Florida, using historical records to illuminate the intersections of slavery, power, and agency in Kingsley's life.
Galápagos Islands
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2013 —
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Alien species, particularly insects, are significantly reshaping pollination networks in the Galápagos Islands, increasing network stability while potentially introducing vulnerabilities. The study found that 20% of species (60 plants and 220 pollinators) were aliens, involved in 38% of interactions, with alien insects like dipterans, hymenopterans, and lepidopterans forming more links than native or non-endemic species. These invaders acted as 'island hubs,' infiltrated all network modules, and accounted for 38% of connectors, enhancing network cohesiveness. While this may increase resistance to species loss, it could also heighten susceptibility to diseases. The research analyzed data from five Galápagos islands, revealing profound structural changes in pollination networks due to invasions.
Chitwan National Park
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2013 —
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Invasive mikania (Mikania micrantha) poses a significant threat to the greater one-horned rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) in Chitwan National Park, Nepal. The study found that 44% of surveyed habitats are infested with mikania, with nearly 15% exhibiting high infestation levels (>50% coverage). Riverine forests, tall grasslands, and wetlands—habitats critical for rhinoceros survival—show the highest densities of this invasive plant. Anthropogenic activities, particularly annual grassland burning (25–50% of the park's area) and natural resource collection by local communities, are key drivers of mikania spread. The research highlights the urgent need for management strategies to control burning, mitigate spread, and promote sustainable resource use practices among local communities.
Ujung Kulon National Park
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2013 —
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Javan rhinos (Rhinoceros sondaicus) exhibit strong habitat preferences within Ujung Kulon National Park, favoring swampy shrub and open shrubland areas with low to slight slopes. They also prefer proximity to water sources, road networks, coasts, wallowing sites, and rumpang (dense vegetation). This study, using utilization distribution models, identified key habitat characteristics that could guide conservation efforts outside the park to mitigate threats like poaching and natural disasters.
Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley
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2013 —
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A groundbreaking study on the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Eastern Pyrenees, reveals that social, economic, and cultural factors have significantly shaped the highland landscape since the Neolithic period. By integrating palaeoenvironmental data—including pollen, non-pollen palynomorphs, and macrocharcoal analysis from natural basins—with archaeological findings, researchers identified distinct phases of landscape variability linked to human land-use practices. This interdisciplinary approach provides a rare long-term perspective on how European high mountains have evolved under the influence of human activity, offering insights into the complex interplay between culture and environment in high-altitude regions.
Taos Pueblo
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2013 —
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This study examines the interplay between modernist and regionalist aesthetics through the collaboration between Ansel Adams and Mary Austin on the 1930 photobook <em>Taos Pueblo</em>. It reveals how Adams's shift from pictorialism to a straight photographic style, characterized by clean lines and deep focus, contrasted with Austin's expectations for a more traditional representation of artistic genius. The analysis highlights that modernism and regionalism were mutually constitutive in the early-to-mid 20th century, challenging the notion that they were antithetical movements. The research approach involves comparing Adams's portrait of Austin to his earlier work on Robinson Jeffers, as well as examining the layout and symbolic significance of the photographs within their respective publications.
The Sassi and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches of Matera
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2013 —
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A novel neuro-fuzzy model successfully mapped landslide susceptibility in the UNESCO-listed Natural Archaeological Park of Matera, Italy. This approach combined neural network training with fuzzy logic to analyze slope instability parameters—such as curvature, elevation, lithology, and fracture density—and produced a high-accuracy susceptibility map validated through ROC analysis, confusion matrix, and SCAI methods. The model outperformed traditional techniques by integrating sensitivity analysis to address uncertainties in membership functions, offering a robust tool for heritage risk assessment in complex, rupestrian landscapes.
Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve
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2013 —
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A camera-trap survey along the Sikre River in Honduras' Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve revealed a rich diversity of large and medium-sized mammals, including threatened species like the giant anteater. The study recorded 14 mammal, three bird, and one reptile species over 2,040 trap-nights, with the Baird's tapir being the most frequently captured. Notably, pumas and ocelots were documented multiple times, while a single jaguar photograph from a prior survey suggested its presence. Unlike the pine savanna, where no animals were recorded, broad-leaf forest areas hosted significant biodiversity, comparable to other Central and South American sites. This highlights the Sikre River's importance as a conservation priority within the reserve.
Funerary Tradition in the Prehistory of Sardinia – <em>The domus de janas</em>
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2013 —
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A new interpretation of Sardinia's <em>domus de janas</em>, ancient funerary structures, suggests that animal representations and architectural decorations serve a broader social function beyond religious symbolism. These figures likely originated as 'trophies' displayed in homes, reflecting their role in wealth accumulation, production, and social status. The study proposes that while these animals may have been later divinized, their primary purpose was to project stability and justify societal structures through ideological means. This challenges previous assumptions about the religious significance of these depictions.
Pont du Gard (Roman Aqueduct)
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2013 —
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Roman concrete, renowned for its durability and use in iconic structures like the Pont du Gard aqueduct and the Colosseum, harbors a hidden secret: the mineral al-tobermorite. This discovery, detailed by Jackson et al. (2013), reveals that Roman seawater concrete undergoes a unique chemical process over time, forming this stable mineral which enhances its longevity. The study analyzed samples from 11 ancient Mediterranean harbors, part of the ROMACONS project (2002-2009), demonstrating how Roman engineers leveraged volcanic ash and seawater to create a material that defies modern concrete's typical degradation. This insight offers potential for developing more resilient, long-lasting infrastructure materials today.
Brú na Bóinne - Archaeological Ensemble of the Bend of the Boyne
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2013 —
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A lidar survey of the Brú na Bóinne World Heritage Site, covering approximately 90 km², revealed previously unrecorded archaeological features such as large enclosures (>100 m in diameter), route ways, hollow-ways, embanked enclosures, and quarries. These findings, analyzed using advanced visualization techniques like multi-direction hillshade and Sky View Factor, significantly enhanced the understanding of this Neolithic landscape's subtle topographic expressions. Geophysical surveys corroborated lidar-based discoveries, while viewshed analysis suggested that Newgrange would have been the first visible tomb for a Neolithic boat traveler, with all three great tombs only visible from the Bend's apex. The study also highlighted recent discoveries lacking topographic expression, emphasizing lidar's potential and limitations in subtle-relief landscapes.
Struve Geodetic Arc
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A groundbreaking cooperative model established by the Livonian Society in the 19th century facilitated unprecedented integration of science, economy, and culture across Estonia and Latvia. This innovative organization, funded significantly by a donation equivalent to over 3,250 oxen at the time, supported landmark scientific projects such as the triangulation of Livonia—resulting in the Struve Geodetic Arc, the only Baltic States research-based entry on UNESCO's World Heritage List. The Society's collaborative framework, uniting estate owners, scientists, and political figures, laid the foundation for enduring cooperative networks in agriculture, trade, industry, and meteorology. Its legacy raises contemporary relevance in 21st-century crises, suggesting that similar cooperative structures could revitalize large-scale scientific and economic initiatives today.
Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras
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Local residents of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras, exhibit deep awareness of their ancestral landscape and its role in livelihoods and food supply. This insight emerged from a participatory photographic survey involving community members, revealing their intimate connection to the terraces beyond stereotypical depictions often promoted by tourism and media. The study highlights how local perceptions contrast with outsider narratives, offering a nuanced understanding of cultural heritage that integrates traditional knowledge with modern conservation efforts.
Mount Athos
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Heritage management at Mount Athos reveals that top-down decision-making by monastic authorities often sidelines heritage professionals. KEDAK, the agency tasked with preserving Athonite heritage, operates under strict control of the monasteries, leading to compromises in professional expertise. The study highlights tensions between expert-driven and community-based approaches, demonstrating how religious authority can dominate heritage conservation processes.
Meteora
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2013 —
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A late 18th-century topographical engraving of Meteora, the second-largest monastic complex in Greece and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reveals how cartographic principles merged with Byzantine artistic traditions to create a unique visual representation. This 1782 print serves as both a mental map reflecting monks' perceptions of the region and a promotional tool during a period of political instability. The engraving's dual purpose—simultaneously concealing harsh terrestrial conditions while highlighting spiritual pathways—offers insight into vernacular Greek cartographic practices and the cultural significance of Meteora. The study analyzes this rare artifact to uncover its historical and artistic value, situating it within broader trends in Greek mapping and monastic visualization.
Historic City of Toledo
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2013 —
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A study of the historic city of Toledo, Spain, reveals that time use is an effective and profitable criterion for segmenting visitors, with distinct differences in spending and future intentions between day-trippers and tourists. The research analyzed data from 799 day-trippers and tourists, identifying four segments for each group. These findings suggest that understanding time use can help destinations prioritize which visitor groups to attract and optimize activity and service offerings.
Convent of Christ in Tomar
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A study on the Convent of Christ in Tomar, Portugal, revealed that biocide effectiveness varies significantly depending on the type of microorganism present on limestone walls. Benzalkonium chloride proved more effective against bacterial isolates, while Biotin T showed better performance against fungal isolates. The research characterized microorganisms colonizing the Unfinished Sacristy using classical microbiology techniques and tested three biocides—Biotin T, benzalkonium chloride, and a paint additive—to assess their inhibition effects on microbial growth. This finding highlights the need for tailored biocide-based control strategies to effectively manage microbial colonization in historic structures.
Tikal National Park
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2013 —
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A predictive model of ancient maize agriculture in Tikal National Park reveals that bajo margins were likely used for sustained farming, while upland Rendolls soils showed long-term C3 vegetation signatures, suggesting diverse food production systems. The study combined non-parametric regression, stable carbon isotopes, soil properties, and remote-sensing data to identify areas with strong C4 isotopic enrichment indicative of maize cultivation. Upland regions lacked clear C4 signals, implying alternative land-use practices such as silviculture or forest gardens. This approach provides a cost-effective method for reconstructing subsistence strategies in ancient polities.
China Danxia
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2013 —
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A study of Mt. Danxia, Guangdong Province, China, reveals that the morphometric characteristics of Danxia landforms—marked by red-colored sandstones and steep cliffs—are significantly influenced by lithology and fault systems. Using GIS-based geomorphometric analyses of 42 watersheds, researchers found that hypsometric integrals (HI) reflect lithological differences between eastern and western parts of the area, while stream length gradients and Hack profiles indicate strong fault control over stream direction. This work provides a detailed quantitative assessment of Danxia landforms, offering insights into their erosional evolution and geological controls.
Island of Gorée
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British efforts to establish and maintain the Province of Senegambia (1765–1779) as West Africa's first formal colony were undermined by a flawed coastal patrol scheme, compounded by dysfunctional local governance and insufficient resources. Despite its profitability in gum arabic and slave trading, the province faced persistent Franco-British rivalry, particularly due to France's stronghold on the nearby island of Gorée. Naval power was central to British operations, yet systemic failures—including neglect from London—hindered its effectiveness.
Salonga National Park
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2013 —
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Researchers present new evidence supporting the hypothesis that bonobos engage in self-medication by consuming leaves and stemstrips of <i>Manniophyton fulvum</i> without chewing, a behavior observed at LuiKotale in Salonga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo. The study meets four out of six criteria proposed by Huffman for identifying plants ingested for medicinal purposes, suggesting that bonobos may use this plant to alleviate parasite infestations or other stressors. Analysis of 1,094 dung piles and phenological data revealed that ingestion occurred seasonally, correlating with rain and temperature patterns, which are predictors for parasite development and immune response challenges in hosts. The findings also highlight potential pharmacological effects of the plant, drawing parallels to its ethnomedicinal uses by humans.
Frontiers of the Roman Empire – Dacia
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2013 —
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Archaeological research at Porolissum, a Roman fort in Dacia, has identified a previously unknown ballistarium—a specialized building for storing artillery projectiles and war machines. Excavations between 2010 and 2012 uncovered a 25 × 10-meter structure near the fort's main gate, characterized by five distinct habitation layers dating from AD 140 to 180/190. The discovery of approximately 90 stone projectiles (9 cm diameter) and other military artifacts, along with parallels from British auxiliary forts, confirms its role as a ballistarium. Additionally, geophysical surveys revealed extensive civilian habitation, including large stone buildings and dwellings, expanding knowledge of the Roman town municipium Septimium Porolissensis.
Historic Centre of Lima
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2013 —
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A predominant commercial use characterizes the current landscape of Jirón de la Unión Street, a central artery within Lima's Historic Centre. This finding emerges from a study that employed bibliographical, cartographic, photographic, and documentary surveys alongside fieldwork to analyze land use and urban scenery. The research, conducted by Gregório de Andrade and Morais Soares (2013), sheds light on the evolving dynamics of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where patrimonial management policies have been in place since the 1980s. By examining these new uses, the study offers insights into the complex spatial organization challenges faced by Lima's historic urban core.
Badain Jaran Desert - Towers of Sand and Lakes
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Local atmospheric precipitation does not significantly contribute to recharging the groundwater system in the hinterland of Badain Jaran Desert, China. This conclusion was drawn from a study analyzing evaporation on mega-dune surfaces following various rain events, categorized into conventional precipitation (CP), ordinary annual maximum (OAM), and extreme precipitation (EP). The research used long-term precipitation records, automatic weather station data, and eddy covariance system measurements to assess evaporation patterns. Results showed that CP and OAM evaporated within 1-3 days and 3-4 weeks, respectively, while EP required a prolonged period due to the upper dry sand layer's influence. These findings provide insight into the formation mechanisms of lakes in this unique desert region.
Archaeological Site of Olympia
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Research at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Olympia, Greece, reveals that its harbour site Pheia was destroyed by tsunami impacts, likely in the 6th century AD. The study identified three distinct tsunami events—dating to the 6th millennium BC, around 4300 ± 200 cal BC, and the Byzantine to post-Byzantine period—using sedimentological, geoarchaeological, and geochemical analyses of marine deposits found far inland. These deposits, some cemented into beachrock, suggest tsunamis reached up to 18–20 meters above current sea level due to wave refraction and channeling effects, such as the Katakolo Pass. The findings highlight the significant tsunami risk posed by the seismically active Hellenic Arc, where tectonic plate subduction generates destructive waves along the Greek coast.
City of Safranbolu
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Safranbolu, Turkey, showcases exceptional Ottoman-era water structures that exemplify traditional Turkish architecture and engineering. The study highlights the Incekaya Aqueduct, a gravity-fed system commissioned by Grand Vizier Izzet Mehmet Pasha (1794–98), which delivers drinking water from Danaköy Village to Safranbolu via the Tokatlı Canyon. Additionally, it examines pool rooms—integral to Ottoman residential architecture—both within mansions like Asmazlar and Deligözler House, and as standalone pavilion structures with garden pools in Bağlar and central districts. These features illustrate the spatial and aesthetic integration of water in historic urban planning.
Monte San Giorgio
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Monte San Giorgio reveals that its Ladinian carbonate section contains immature organic matter primarily of marine bacterial origin, with increasing land plant-derived contributions upsection. This study links organic-matter accumulation to sea-level changes, productivity, and volcanic activity-induced rainfall. Enhanced productivity during high sea levels contributed to black-shale formation under anoxic-sulphidic conditions, while low sea levels intensified runoff, leading to basin restriction and laminated limestone deposition under dysoxic to anoxic conditions. Benthic microbial activity played a significant role in hydrogen-rich organic matter production, carbonate precipitation, and vertebrate fossil preservation. The research integrates sedimentology, geochemistry, and microscopy to provide insights into palaeoenvironmental dynamics.
Mount Kumgang – Diamond Mountain from the Sea
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This edited volume investigates the dual relationship between peace and tourism, examining how tourism can both promote peace and be influenced by it. It presents case studies from diverse regions, including Mount Kumgang in South Korea, Palestine, Timor Leste, India, Japan, Australia, Kenya, and Jerusalem, to explore the potential of 'peace tourism' as a tool for ecological democracy, human rights advocacy, and social justice. The research employs qualitative methods, such as critical analysis and case study approaches, to assess both the benefits and drawbacks of peace tourism, including its potential for exploitation and the challenges it faces in conflict zones. A key finding is that while peace tourism can foster international citizenship and awareness-raising, its effectiveness depends on ethical frameworks and local community involvement.
The Persian Garden
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Persian gardens and pavilions, integral to Persianate garden design since the Achaemenid era (6th century BC), have been highlighted for their historical, literary, and artistic significance, particularly their role in representing paradise. Mohammad Gharipour's work emphasizes the pavilion's overlooked importance in Iranian architectural studies by analyzing its evolution from pre-Islamic gardens to Qur'anic symbolism. The study explores depictions in religious texts like Aban Yasht and Persian poetry, revealing both literal and metaphorical values. Gharipour's approach combines historical context with literary analysis, offering a comprehensive understanding of the pavilion's cultural and architectural significance.
Durmitor National Park
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A study on the hoverfly <em>Eristalis tenax</em> in Durmitor National Park, Montenegro, reveals that landscape heterogeneity does not significantly impact its population structure or gene flow. Analysis of allele frequencies at allozyme loci, wing traits (size and shape), and abdominal color patterns across eight diverse locations—ranging from deciduous forests to alpine meadows—showed weak genetic differentiation and phenotypic similarity among samples. Bayesian clustering and FST estimates confirmed a lack of population structure, suggesting that <em>E. tenax</em> thrives in a more or less continuous habitat due to its strong dispersal capacity. These findings imply that the species may facilitate gene flow among isolated plant populations across the region, offering insights into its role in maintaining biodiversity.
Bikini Atoll Nuclear Test Site
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Bikini Atoll Nuclear Test Site, Republic of the Marshall Islands, was inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List in 2010 as a globally significant cultural symbol and icon of the 20th century. This designation reflects its dual nature: a landscape ravaged by nuclear testing (1946–1958) and a remote, exotic paradise. The study examines how the atoll's name, appropriated for the bikini swimsuit, became intertwined with its history of destruction, while also serving as a subversive space co-opted by both global and local actors for heritage recognition. The research employs 'Social Poetics' to explore tensions between official cultural narratives and lived experiences, highlighting Bikini's role in political advocacy for displaced Marshallese communities.
Samarra Archaeological City
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A comparative analysis of ALOS PALSAR and RADARSAT-2 satellite sensors reveals distinct advantages for detecting shallow underground archaeological structures, with RADARSAT-2's higher spatial resolution (9 m) offsetting PALSAR's deeper soil penetration (L-band). This study highlights the complementary nature of these sensors in identifying superficial remains at UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Samarra and Djebel Barkal. Polarimetric SAR data analysis, supported by archaeological maps and optical satellite imagery, demonstrates the potential for remote sensing to advance archaeological research, particularly where ground-truth surveys are politically restricted.
Mistaken Point
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A groundbreaking analysis of the population structure of Ediacaran organisms from Mistaken Point, Newfoundland, reveals that these ancient communities likely reproduced continuously and aseasonally. By examining size-frequency distributions of four taxa across five fossil surfaces using Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC), researchers found single-cohort models with wide variance best explained the data. This suggests a 'continuous reproduction' model, where Ediacaran organisms lacked seasonal triggers for reproduction, possibly due to deepwater environmental conditions. The study provides critical insights into the life history and ecology of these oldest known macroscopic communities, challenging previous assumptions about their reproductive strategies.
Jomon Prehistoric Sites in Northern Japan
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2013 —
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Archaeological excavations on Rebun Island, Japan, reveal that obsidian—a material not found naturally on the island—was used continuously from the Middle Jomon period (5400–4300 cal. YBP) through to the Okhotsk period (1500–750 YBP). This suggests significant long-distance trade or transportation of raw materials and tools, a pattern consistent with broader prehistoric lithic industries in northeast Asia. To trace the origins of this obsidian, researchers employed portable-XRF analysis on artifacts from three sites: Uedomari 3, Kafukai 1, and Hamanaka 2. The findings promise to illuminate shifts in resource procurement and distribution among hunter-gatherer communities during these periods, offering new insights into the economic and cultural dynamics of prehistoric Northern Japan.
