Mount Etna
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2019 —
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A novel machine learning classifier achieves high accuracy in mapping recent lava flows at Mount Etna using multispectral Sentinel-2 imagery, addressing challenges in distinguishing fresh from older lava fields. The method leverages bands 2, 3, 4, and 8 (10 m resolution) to automatically classify pixels based on reflectance properties, validated against ground measurements of 2017–2018 eruptions. This approach offers a scalable solution for monitoring hazardous volcanic events with moderate-resolution satellite data, enhancing predictive capabilities for lava flow behavior.
Tasmanian Wilderness
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2019 —
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Habitat suitability modelling reveals that Tasmanian Aboriginal people occupied diverse environments, particularly targeting coastal areas and drier, less steep habitats across central, northern, and eastern Tasmania. The western interior, including parts of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, was rarely used during the Holocene, suggesting low-density settlement in this region. This study leverages RandomForest and MaxEnt models to analyze archaeological site records from the Tasmanian Aboriginal Heritage Register, incorporating 31 predictor variables such as climate, topography, and resource proximity. The findings highlight the need for further archaeological surveys to validate these patterns, offering new insights into past human landscape use in Tasmania.
Historic Jeddah, the Gate to Makkah
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2019 —
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A spatial database of historic sites in Jeddah's Al-Balad district, developed through GIS mapping and photographic surveys, has been successfully integrated with historical records to create an online platform aimed at promoting tourism while preserving UNESCO-listed heritage. This approach addresses the challenges faced by Al-Balad since 1947, offering a sustainable model for balancing cultural conservation with economic growth in line with Saudi Vision 2030's goals for tourism development.
Luther Memorials in Eisleben and Wittenberg
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2019 —
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A 1571 map of Mansfeld, Luther’s birthplace, created by Johannes Mellinger and Tilemann Stella, serves as more than a geographical representation—it functions as a tool for memory-making and the memorialization of Lutheran identity during a critical period in Reformation history. The map integrates historical details, quotations, and references to Luther’s life, reimagining space to validate Lutheranism while addressing tensions between tradition and novelty. This composite approach historicized and reconceptualized landscapes, offering an alternative narrative for second-generation Lutherans to grapple with the loss of the Wittenberg reformer and secure their confessional future. The study highlights how spatial representation in early modern Europe was instrumental in shaping collective memory and validating religious identity.
Monastery of Alcobaça
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2019 —
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Researchers developed 'colour mapping,' a novel methodology to analyze pigments in medieval illuminated manuscripts, revealing insights into the origin and technical sophistication of substances used by 12th- and 13th-century Portuguese scriptoria. The study examined 38 manuscripts from three monasteries—São Mamede do Lorvão, Santa Maria de Alcobaça, and Santa Cruz de Coimbra—and identified patterns in pigment use, including the presence of expensive materials and specialized techniques. This approach provides a deeper understanding of medieval artistic practices and conservation strategies.
Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago
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2019 —
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Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago, Vietnam's largest limestone island system, exhibits exceptional marine biodiversity with 4,622 species of plants and animals, including 16 on the Vietnam Red List and 114 on the IUCN List. This diversity spans seven tropical limestone ecosystems—rainforest, cave, mangrove, tidal, coral reef, and soft-bottom—highlighting its global conservation value under UNESCO criteria (ix and x). The study, analyzing both terrestrial and marine species distribution, underscores the site's potential as a World Heritage Site due to its high endemism and rare species presence. Research involved systematic species documentation, emphasizing ecological significance for heritage designation.
Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island
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2019 —
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Marine biodiversity research in the Ryukyu Islands, Japan, reveals significant gaps and biases that hinder conservation efforts. The study found that research is heavily concentrated on certain taxa (e.g., Pisces, Cnidaria) and sub-regions with larger human populations or marine research stations, such as Okinawa and Yaeyama, while understudied areas like Tokara, Miyako, Yakutane, and Amami Oshima lack adequate data. Additionally, the Ryukyu Islands lag behind other major coral reef regions in studies on critical topics like marine protected areas and herbivory, despite their high endemism and anthropogenic threats. The analysis of 1995-2017 Web of Science literature and OBIS records highlights the need for broader, more equitable research to address these gaps and protect critically endangered species.
Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
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2019 —
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Machu Picchu's rise as a global tourism icon is shaped by a complex interplay of indigenismo, local ambition, and foreign influence, according to Mark Rice's study. This work reveals how the site's development in 20th-century Peru was not merely an archaeological discovery but a strategic effort to brand it as a symbol of national identity and regional pride. Rice's research, grounded in extensive local archives, guidebooks, and personal collections, challenges conventional narratives by emphasizing the political and cultural dynamics that transformed Machu Picchu from a relatively obscure ruin into one of South America's most significant heritage attractions. Unlike earlier tourism studies focused on coastal destinations, this study highlights the unique trajectory of high-altitude archaeological sites in shaping Latin American tourism.
Medina of Marrakesh
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2019 —
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Marrakesh, the second-largest city in Morocco and one of its four imperial cities, stands as a testament to historical significance and architectural grandeur. Situated at the northern foothills of the High Atlas Mountains, its medina was recognized for its outstanding universal value in 1985 by UNESCO, solidifying its status as a World Heritage Site. This designation underscores its cultural, historical, and architectural importance, reflecting centuries of Moroccan heritage and urban development.
Wartburg Castle
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2019 —
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A letter penned by Martin Luther during his return from Wartburg Castle to Wittenberg in 1522 offers profound insights into individual freedom and Luther's strategic thinking. Dated March 5, 1522, the document stands out as a world-historical testament to Luther's defiance against Frederick the Wise, Elector of Saxony. The letter exemplifies artful speech and tactical reasoning, providing a unique perspective on the complexities of early modern European history. This analysis delves into the significance of the letter, highlighting its role in shaping historical narratives around individual autonomy and political defiance.
Archaeological Site of Philippi
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2019 —
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Early Christian martyr shrines, known as martyria, emerged as significant cultic centers, but their archaeological study is hampered by limited pre-fourth-century evidence. This research bridges the gap between textual and archaeological records, revealing that while early descriptions from Smyrna and Rome provide insight into primitive practices, later fourth-century sites in Rome and Philippi show the expansion of martyria as focal points for Christian worship. The study highlights a caveat: smaller or private shrines may remain invisible to archaeology, suggesting a broader but underdocumented phenomenon.
Changdeokgung Palace Complex
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2019 —
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A mother-of-pearl floor mirror from Daejojeon Hall at Changdeokgung Palace Complex, South Korea, was found to be primarily constructed using Dalbergia spp. wood, with later repairs involving Shorea spp., according to material analysis. Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy revealed that the varnish used matches lacquer spectra, while X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis identified brass in metal wheels and line decorations, suggesting modern craftsmanship. Prior to conservation treatment, the mirror's structural instability was exacerbated by missing submaterials and foreign surface adhesives. Conservation efforts restored its original appearance using the same wood species confirmed through scientific surveys.
Taï National Park
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2019 —
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A study on chimpanzees in Taï National Park, Côte d'Ivoire, reveals that maternal behavior plays a significant role in the development of nut-cracking skills among immature individuals. Researchers found that while direct maternal scaffolding and active nut-sharing did not significantly enhance immatures' nut-cracking efficiency, their skills were positively influenced by their mothers' average efficiency and sharing hammers with them. The study also observed that mothers were more likely to share nuts with sons than daughters, particularly when offspring begged more frequently, with male immatures begging more often than females. This research provides new insights into the ontogenetic pathways of complex tool-use behavior in wild chimpanzees and underscores the importance of naturalistic observations in understanding skill acquisition.
Angkor
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2019 —
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Urban expansion around the Angkor World Heritage Site in Cambodia, driven by rapid tourism growth and unchecked development, poses significant threats to its integrity. Between 2004 and 2017, Siem Reap's urban area surged by 160%, with 72% of the increase occurring in the buffer zone, leading to the transformation of arable land, forests, and grasslands into residential areas. Using remote sensing and GIS, researchers applied the CA-Markov model to predict that the built-up area will reach 135.09 km² by 2025 and 159.14 km² by 2030, potentially affecting 17 monuments by 2030—up from 9 in 2017. The study highlights the urgent need for intervention to mitigate urban pressure on this globally significant site.
Borobudur Temple Compounds
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2019 —
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A study analyzing hotel service quality at Borobudur Temple through opinion mining of online reviews reveals that the Support Vector Machine (SVM) algorithm outperformed others, achieving the highest accuracy, precision, and F1 score in classifying sentiment across key dimensions like Room, Facility, Surrounding, Employee, and Reliability. Notably, the 'Employee' dimension consistently showed the most positive sentiment among these. This research leverages HOLSERV Plus framework to assess customer perceptions, providing actionable insights for hotels while offering visitors a data-driven way to evaluate hospitality services in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche
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2019 —
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Research reveals that despite significant forest fragmentation in the Calakmul region, Baird’s tapirs can still navigate through mosaics of forests and agricultural areas. However, landscape connectivity between community territories and the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve has declined, hindering tapir movement outside continuous forests. The study used graphic theory and CONEFOR SENSINODE 2.2 to analyze vegetation cover and land use, identifying critical nodes for connectivity and limited dispersal routes. Findings suggest that while habitats are suboptimal, they remain functional for tapirs. Encouraging farming practices over mechanized agriculture is recommended to mitigate deforestation and habitat loss.
Hortobágy National Park - the Puszta
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2019 —
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Traditional cattle breeds play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and habitat conservation values in marshes, outperforming crossbred beef cattle. A grazing experiment in Hortobágy National Park, Hungary, revealed that traditional breeds significantly increased species diversity and Shannon diversity in marsh habitats compared to crossbred cattle. Additionally, crossbred cattle grazing led to a decrease in moisture indicator values in these environments. The study highlights the importance of prioritizing traditional breeds for managing wet alkaline grasslands and marshes to balance agricultural production with nature conservation. This research provides evidence that breed-specific grazing practices can effectively harmonize the needs of both sectors.
Mount Etna
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2019 —
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A new model for ash generation at basaltic volcanoes, exemplified by Mount Etna, reveals that variations in magma mass flow rate govern the formation of volcanic ash. The study identifies three distinct mechanisms tied to eruptive styles—lava fountains, Strombolian activity, and ash explosions—by analyzing deposit features and ash characteristics from four historical eruptions (2001, 2006, 2007, 2010). It also demonstrates that tachylite magma constitutes a minor proportion of conduit residence time compared to sideromelane, aligning with observed ash composition during lava fountain episodes. This research advances the understanding of explosive basaltic volcanism and offers critical insights for hazard mitigation at similar volcanic systems.
Mount Huangshan
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2019 —
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Research on Tibetan macaques at Mount Huangshan reveals that up to 24% of their diet consists of plants with significant pharmacological potential, including antiparasitic, antibacterial, and neuroprotective properties. The study analyzed a 50-species food list for the YA1 troop, identifying 12 species that could serve as medicinal foods. While direct benefits remain unconfirmed, the findings suggest these macaques may engage in self-medication to address health challenges such as parasite infections or stress. This study advances understanding of primate dietary behavior and its potential role in maintaining health homeostasis.
Gebel Barkal and the Sites of the Napatan Region
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2019 —
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Archaeological evidence from the Wadi Abu Dom and Jebel al-Ain reveals the extent of Christian influence and administrative reach of the Nubian state of Makuria during the medieval period. The study highlights how remote desert regions, including volcanic mountains like Ras ed-Dom, were integrated into the broader political and religious landscape of Makuria. By analyzing topographical settings and material remains, researchers demonstrate that these peripheral areas served as critical nodes for both ecological adaptation and state governance. This challenges traditional assumptions about the spatial boundaries of medieval Nubian civilization, suggesting a more dispersed yet interconnected network than previously recognized.
Lumbini, the Birthplace of the Lord Buddha
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2019 —
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Lumbini, Nepal, holds significant potential as a global destination for meditation tourism, yet its spiritual and philosophical dimensions remain underutilized by visitors. Research reveals a disconnect between the core teachings of Buddhism—meditation and compassion—and the practices of most tourists, who often overlook these aspects despite visiting Lumbini for religious or cultural reasons. The study highlights that fostering awareness of meditation tourism could yield substantial benefits for individual well-being, social harmony, and national development. By integrating Buddhist philosophy into tourism practices, Lumbini could transform into a premier destination that not only attracts pilgrims but also promotes mindfulness and compassion worldwide.
Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks
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2019 —
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A first-ever assessment of medium- and large-sized mammal diversity in the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park (CVNP) and its surroundings reveals critical insights for conservation. The study found 23 species, with higher richness in both the rainy season and outside park boundaries, highlighting the park's limited effectiveness in preserving biodiversity. Seasonal variations in species composition and frequency were also observed, emphasizing the need for long-term monitoring to ensure viable populations persist. This research provides essential data for future conservation strategies in this underrepresented Brazilian biome.
Naumburg Cathedral
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2019 —
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A 13th-century statue of Uta, located at Naumburg Cathedralchallenges nationalist narratives by revealing a complex, hybridized border culture that defies modern interpretations. Originally forgotten, Uta's memory was politically instrumentalized during the 20th century as a symbol of German identity, obscuring her actual life in the 11th-century Polish-German borderlands, where her family embodied cultural and political fluidity. The study critiques how ideological framing distorts historical realities while highlighting Naumburg Cathedral’s significance as a transnational cultural site, shaped by an anonymous master craftsman who merged Romanesque and Gothic styles. This work underscores the cathedral's role in redefining border histories beyond conquest narratives.
Khami Ruins National Monument
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2019 —
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Archaeological research at Khami Ruins National Monument, Zimbabwe, reveals a disconnect between the material remains of ancient Zimbabwean Culture sites and their cultural memory. While studies have extensively documented the physical structures and artifacts, this work highlights that these sites often lack living connections to contemporary communities, suggesting an 'un-inherited past.' The study employs a blend of traditional archaeological methods—such as analysis of material remains—and qualitative approaches to explore how cultural landscapes are remembered or forgotten over time. This dual approach underscores the importance of integrating historical narratives with modern interpretations to preserve and understand the significance of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Heritage of Mercury. Almadén and Idrija
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2019 —
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Coastal sediments in the Gulf of Trieste, historically contaminated by mercury (Hg) from mining activities in Idrija, Slovenia, exhibit negligible Hg mobility even when resuspended. A study analyzing 16 sediment samples found that Hg is predominantly bound to poorly soluble or insoluble compounds, such as sulfides, with over 98% of Hg remaining in solid form. Short-term microcosm experiments simulating dredging-induced resuspension showed minimal dissolved Hg (DHg) and methylmercury (DMeHg) release, with DHg concentrations stable and DMeHg below detection limits most of the time. The high partitioning coefficient (KD) further confirmed Hg's strong affinity for sediment particles over the dissolved phase. These findings suggest that short-term resuspension events, such as those expected from planned dredging in the Port of Monfalcone, would have a negligible impact on Hg mobility and water column contamination.
Archaeological Sites of the Island of Meroe
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2019 —
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A significant milestone was achieved with the completion of architectural and iconographic documentation of the Begrawiya North and South cemetery pyramids at Meroe, Sudan, marking a crucial step in preserving these UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Qatari Mission for the Pyramids of Sudan successfully documented over 1000 ornamented blocks found out of context, advanced conservation strategies for the pyramids and their offering chapels, and initiated sustainable tourism plans. These efforts include improved site infrastructure such as a visitor center and fencing, aiming to balance preservation with educational access.
Mesa Verde National Park
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2019 —
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Mesa Verde National Park's Visitor Center and Research Facility, designed by ajc architects, successfully integrated reinforced concrete masonry to ensure durability and longevity. The project's success was attributed to meticulous programming and stakeholder engagement, which helped identify and mitigate risks while refining the design. This approach not only preserved the historical significance of Mesa Verde but also set a benchmark for sustainable and resilient infrastructure in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Qinghai Hoh Xil
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2019 —
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A two-stage development of the Hoh Xil basin, marked by rapid cooling around 20 million years ago, suggests the emergence of a topographic barrier separating it from the Qaidam basin during the early Neogene. This finding challenges the traditional view that these basins evolved independently and supports the Paleogene Paleo-Qaidam hypothesis, proposing they were once part of a single integrated basin. The study integrates geochronological, petrological, and thermochronological data to decipher the growth and uplift history of the Tibetan plateau, revealing crustal shortening in adjacent thrust belts that shaped the plateau's boundaries since at least the early Eocene.
Qinghai Hoh Xil
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2019 —
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The Himalayan-Tibetan orogen, formed by the Cenozoic India-Asia collision, provides critical insights into continental suturing processes. This study reveals that its geological framework originated from multiple ocean closures and intercontinental suturing events spanning Triassic to Cenozoic eras. Key findings include phases of southward trench retreat beneath Asian terranes, creating ophiolites and backarc basins during Neo-Tethys subduction (174–70 Ma), followed by Cordilleran-style deformation. The research suggests that the India-Asia collision initiated at ∼60 Ma, though plate reconstructions indicate a spatial mismatch, proposing an alternative scenario where the Gangdese arc rifted southward and collided with India, with backarc basin closure occurring later (∼45 Ma). Post-collision magmatism and tectonic activity, including potassic-adakitic magmatism and exhumation, are interpreted within the context of Indian lithosphere subduction dynamics. The study integrates seismic data, paleomagnetic reconstructions, and stratigraphic evidence to propose a refined tectonic model for the region's evolution.
Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries - Wolong, Mt Siguniang and Jiajin Mountains
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2019 —
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Metabarcoding analysis reveals that blue sheep (Pseudois nauremi) constitute the primary dietary component of snow leopards (Panthera uncia) in Wolong National Nature Reserve, Sichuan Province. This study employed a non-invasive metabarcoding approach to analyze 22 confirmed snow leopard fecal samples, providing a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of their diet compared to traditional morphological identification methods. The findings highlight the importance of blue sheep in the diet of this apex predator, offering critical insights into its ecological role within the Qionglai Mountains ecosystem. This research contributes to the broader understanding of snow leopard diet dynamics, which are essential for informing conservation strategies and maintaining ecosystem stability.
City of Quito
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2019 —
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Researchers have demonstrated that urban structures can act as seismic metamaterials, creating 'forbidden bands' where seismic energy is significantly reduced. This phenomenon, observed through a semi-dense urban seismic network in Quito, Ecuador (METACity-Quito), reveals how multiscale interactions between soil and buildings modify ground motion patterns. The study suggests that understanding these interactions could lead to the design of future seismic-proof cities by strategically arranging structures to mitigate earthquake damage. The approach involved deploying sensors across Quito to measure wavefield modifications, providing new insights into urban site effects and structural responses.
Lake Baikal
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2019 —
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A metagenomic analysis of Lake Baikal's viral communities during high-productivity periods reveals distinct seasonal shifts in virome composition. Tailed bacteriophages, particularly those from the Caudovirales order, dominate these ecosystems, with functional gene annotation showing a significant presence of 'Phages, Prophages, Transposable Elements and Plasmids' (27.4%) during the under-ice period, which decreases to 9.6% in late spring. Comparative analysis places Baikal's viromes within a distinct clade of the world's largest lakes, highlighting unique ecological patterns. The study employed separate and cross-assembly methods for contig assembly, providing insights into the lake's viral diversity and its relationship with other aquatic environments.
Sundarbans National Park
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2019 —
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A study of metal distribution and short-term variability in sediments from the Ganges River to the Bay of Bengal reveals severe sediment dynamics, likely driven by tidal hydrodynamics and seasonal monsoon floods. Analysis of metals such as Cd, Co, Hg, Ni, Pb, and Zn showed no vertical gradient, indicating rapid mixing or redistribution of contaminants. Multivariate analysis identified distinct associations between metals (Co, Zn, Pb, Cu) and organic carbon, pointing to different geochemical processes linked to domestic and industrial effluents, agricultural chemicals, and aquaculture discharges. The research also highlighted an environmental risk associated with copper concentrations in the Kadwip area, emphasizing the impact of anthropogenic activities on this UNESCO-recognized Human Patrimony site, particularly during monsoon periods.
Saryarka – Steppe and Lakes of Northern Kazakhstan
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2019 —
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Research on metal products from the Alekseyevka-Sargary culture in Northern Kazakhstan reveals significant advancements in metallurgical techniques, including the use of sulphide ores and innovative smelting methods. The study identified a shift in metal production centers from the South Trans-Urals to Central and Eastern Kazakhstan, possibly extending to Xinjiang, China. Tools analyzed, such as daggers, spearheads, and chisels, exhibited heterogeneity in chemical composition, predominantly low-alloyed bronzes like Cu–Sn, Cu–Sn–As, and Cu–As, with traces of pure copper and complex alloys. The findings suggest experimentation with raw materials and the adoption of new metallurgical processes, marking a technological shift in the region's Bronze Age cultures.
Lut Desert
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2019 —
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A new meteorite collection region in the Lut Desert, Iran, has been identified, yielding over 200 ordinary chondrites (OCs) with distinct weathering patterns. The most abundant are highly weathered H5 and well-preserved L5 meteorites, primarily found in the Kalut area. Unlike other deserts, these meteorites show unique terrestrial weathering effects, including troilite transformation into pyrite/marcasite and enrichment of mobile elements like Li, Sr, Mo, Ba, Tl, Th, and U, while V, Cr, Co, Rb, and possibly Fe decrease. Carbon and CaCO3 levels are higher than in other hot deserts, providing distinctive indicators for Lut Desert meteorites. Radiocarbon dating suggests terrestrial ages of 10–30 ka, comparable to other hot deserts except the Atacama. The study highlights the Lut Desert's potential for preserving meteorites, offering valuable material for future research.
Hubei Shennongjia
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2019 —
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A study on methane (CH₄) emissions in the Dajiuhu Wetland of Shennongjia, Hubei Province, China, reveals that air temperature and photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) are primary drivers controlling peatland CH₄ flux. Using the Eddy covariance technique, researchers measured seasonal and daily variations in CH₄ emissions while analyzing correlations with environmental factors such as soil temperature and rainfall. The findings suggest that these two variables significantly influence methane activity, providing critical insights into wetland ecosystem dynamics and their broader environmental impacts.
Djémila
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2019 —
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Michèle Blanchard-Lemée (1936–2017) made significant contributions to the study of ancient African mosaics, particularly those in Djémila, Algeria. Her groundbreaking thesis on the pavements of Djémila established her as a leading expert in the field, and her work remained central to her research throughout her career. A recent posthumous publication focused on the 'house of Bacchus' in Djémila, highlighting her deep engagement with this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Blanchard-Lemée's expertise extended beyond academic research; she played a pivotal role in the restoration and museography of Algerian mosaics, fostering collaboration between French and Algerian researchers. Her legacy includes advancements in the preservation and study of ancient African art, cementing her influence on modern archaeological practices.
Taj Mahal
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2019 —
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Advanced spectroscopic techniques, including micro-Raman spectroscopy and terahertz time domain spectroscopic imaging, have demonstrated unprecedented capability to detect fine cracks and subtle surface changes in marble structures, such as the Pietra Dura inlays of the Taj Mahal. These non-invasive methods can identify visually imperceptible damages, offering a faster, more reliable alternative to traditional visual assessments. By mapping minute variations introduced by organic materials with high accuracy, this approach promises to revolutionize the structural assessment of heritage sites, enabling proactive conservation efforts before visible damage occurs.
Droogmakerij de Beemster (Beemster Polder)
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2019 —
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A groundbreaking study reveals that vitamin D deficiency was not only prevalent but also recurrent and seasonal among 17th–19th century Dutch communities, with some episodes occurring annually. Using microscopic computed tomography (micro-CT) to assess interglobular dentine (IGD) in teeth, researchers found that 65.5% of individuals exhibited signs of vitamin D deficiency, while a significant portion experienced multiple deficient periods. Notably, IGD was detected in the dentine formed around birth in three individuals, suggesting maternal vitamin D deficiency. This non-destructive method provides valuable insights into the influence of sociocultural practices and latitude on disease development within age and sex groups in past communities.
Lake Baikal
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2019 —
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Lake Baikal, the world's deepest lake, harbors a unique bathypelagic freshwater microbiome distinct from marine counterparts. Research reveals that Thaumarchaeota and candidate phyla radiation (CPR) dominate its deep waters, with significant activity in nitrification and methane oxidation. Unlike oceanic samples at similar depths, Baikal's microbiome is characterized by the absence of Deltaproteobacteria and Gammaproteobacteria but the presence of Betaproteobacteriales, CPR, and DPANN superphylum. The study analyzed metagenomes from 1250 and 1350 m depths, assembling 231 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) to uncover these taxonomic and metabolic differences. Depth appears less influential than salinity in shaping the microbial community structure.
Danube Delta
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2019 —
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Research on microforaminiferal linings from the Danube Delta reveals that these organic linings can serve as reliable proxies for paleosalinity and pollution, despite their low abundance compared to high-salinity environments. The study demonstrates a qualitative model linking benthic foraminifera and their linings across environmental gradients, from delta plain (-1.8 m water depth) to continental slope (>90 m), with surface salinity ranging from 5 to 17 psu. Using cold acid-treated samples, the authors describe the relationship between test ornamentation (e.g., papillate and granulate surfaces) and low-oxygen survival strategies in the Black Sea's eutrophic environment. A Dissolution Index based on organic lining-to-test ratios indicates poor calcite preservation, while deformities, large pore sizes, and pyritization suggest hypoxia and eutrophication. This baseline data enhances understanding of coastline changes and marine transgressions in Paratethyan basins.
Brú na Bóinne - Archaeological Ensemble of the Bend of the Boyne
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2019 —
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Pilot microgravimetric surveys at Newgrange, a Neolithic passage tomb within Ireland's Brú na Bóinne World Heritage Site, demonstrate the potential of this geophysical technique to detect subsurface cavities. The study revealed distinct gravitational anomalies corresponding to known and previously undocumented voids beneath the monument, including the central chamber and surrounding structures. Microgravimetry, which measures variations in local gravity caused by density contrasts, proved effective in identifying subterranean features without invasive excavation. This non-destructive method offers a valuable tool for archaeological prospection at heritage sites, complementing traditional survey techniques while minimizing risk to fragile monuments.
Central Highlands of Sri Lanka
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2019 —
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Research reveals that the endangered endemic lizard <em>Calotes nigrilabris</em> exhibits selective microhabitat preferences within Horton Plains National Park, Sri Lanka. The study found significant differences between available and occupied microhabitats, with vegetation type—particularly <em>Ulex</em> and <em>Rhododendron</em> cover—playing a crucial role in its habitat selection. Temporal and spatial variations in microhabitat use suggest resource partitioning among different life stages. These findings underscore the importance of targeted conservation strategies to protect this species' critical grassland habitats, offering key insights for preserving Sri Lanka's unique biodiversity within UNESCO-listed sites.
Curonian Spit
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Research on the Curonian Spit reveals the presence of microplastic contamination in the food bolus of small sandeel (Ammodytes tobianus) from the Baltic Sea littoral. Microplastics were identified in 21% of the studied individuals, with polypropylene film being the dominant type, often found at an advanced stage of destruction. These findings highlight a previously unquantified source of microplastic ingestion in marine ecosystems, with potential implications for biodiversity and food chain dynamics. The study employed infrared spectroscopy to characterize the microplastics, providing a novel insight into their environmental impact on this critical coastal habitat.
Komodo National Park
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2019 —
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Plastic pollution, particularly microplastics, poses significant threats to marine ecosystems, yet its impact on filter-feeding megafauna remains understudied. A study conducted in Komodo National Park and nearby coastal areas of Indonesia revealed alarming levels of plastic contamination in the feeding grounds of manta rays (Mobula alfredi) and whale sharks (Rhincodon typus). Researchers found that plastic abundance varied widely, with up to 44 times more microplastics during the wet season compared to the dry season. Small plastic pieces dominated the debris, and theoretical ingestion rates suggested manta rays could consume up to 63 pieces per hour in Nusa Penida and 25 pieces per hour in Komodo, while whale sharks faced even higher exposure in Java. The study used a combination of trawl surveys and visual transects to sample microplastics and larger floating plastics, confirming plastic ingestion in manta rays through analysis of their egested material. These findings highlight the urgent need for local governments to address plastic pollution to protect these critical marine species.
Archaeological Site of Volubilis
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2019 —
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Roman mortars from the archaeological site of Volubilis, Morocco, were found to consist primarily of quartz and calcite, with trace amounts of feldspar, mica, and dolomite. These findings enabled the reformulation of spare mortars for restoration purposes, using a precise blend of lime (63.6%) and sand (36.4%), including varying grain sizes. Mechanical testing confirmed the performance of these reformulated mortars, providing a basis for restoring damaged Roman mosaics. The study utilized X-ray diffraction to analyze mortar samples from broken tiles and pavements, offering insights into the mineralogical and chemical composition that can guide conservation efforts at historic sites.
Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape
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2019 —
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New archaeological investigations in the Orkhon Valley, Mongolia, have uncovered well-stratified Middle Palaeolithic assemblages, providing rare insights into human dispersal routes in Central Asia. Initially studied between the 1960s and 1990s, these sites were re-examined to refine chronostratigraphic and cultural sequences. The research reveals significant data on early human presence in the region, shedding light on the timing and patterns of Middle Palaeolithic occupation. This study advances our understanding of how humans spread across Central Asia during this critical period.
Incense Route - Desert Cities in the Negev
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2019 —
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Roman milestones in the Negev Desert, including those along the Incense Route, were likely erected by local Roman Army units near military installations rather than as part of the broader imperial road network. This finding contrasts with the northern and central regions of Palaestina, where such markers are more common along well-preserved roads. The study suggests that these milestones serve as evidence of localized military activity in desert areas, a pattern also observed east of the Via Nova Triana in southern Jordan. By analyzing known milestones and their distribution, the research sheds light on Roman military logistics and infrastructure in arid regions.
Bikini Atoll Nuclear Test Site
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2019 —
WHE053891A15D
The Bikini Atoll Nuclear Test Site stands as a critical historical and scientific landmark, where the first nuclear weapon tests exposing significant numbers of people to irradiation were conducted. The 1946 'Able' and 'Baker' tests in the lagoon demonstrated the devastating effects of nuclear explosions on both human health and marine environments, while also providing foundational data for military applications of nuclear energy. These tests, along with others in Nevada and Soviet sites like Totsk and Semipalatinsk, revealed long-term radiation consequences, including those observed on atomic submarines. The study synthesizes historical accounts, scientific observations, and modern assessments of the site's environmental and health impacts, offering a comprehensive overview of the military and civilian ramifications of nuclear testing.
Moidams – the Mound-Burial System of the Ahom Dynasty
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2019 —
WHE59BF3083C8
A Dutch sailor, Frans Jansz van der Heiden, provided a firsthand account of Mir Jumla's Mughal invasion of Assam (1662–63), offering unprecedented insights into the region's history, topography, culture, and warfare. His narrative, initially attributed to an English translator W. Glanius, reveals details about Ahom burial traditions, including the plundering of royal maidams, societal customs, and the nature of Assamese people. The study clarifies that Heiden was the actual eyewitness, while Glanius served as a translator for his travelogue. This rare document enriches historical understanding of the period, blending elements of warfare, survival, and cultural observation.
