Yakushima
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2019 —
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Yakushima Island, Japan, faces complex environmental challenges due to rising tourism and deer population management. Stakeholders, including residents, tourism practitioners, and management authorities, perceive increased trash as the most significant environmental impact of tourism. However, views on deer populations vary: while authorities aim to control overpopulation to protect vegetation, tour guides report a decline in deer sightings, which disappoints tourists expecting to encounter them. This study highlights the intricate relationship between tourism demands, environmental conservation, and stakeholder perceptions, emphasizing the need for balanced management strategies that address both ecological and experiential concerns.
Coastal and Marine Ecosystems of the Bijagós Archipelago – Omatí Minhô
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2019 —
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A study reveals that while communities in the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau, exhibit satisfactory awareness of scabies—a neglected tropical disease—misconceptions about its causation and transmission persist. Personal hygiene is often misconstrued as the primary preventive measure, despite some recognition of early treatment's role in curbing spread. Treatment choices are primarily influenced by cost, leading to delayed care due to poverty and stigmatization, which further impairs quality of life by affecting social interactions, health, and school attendance. The research employed mixed-methods, combining key informant interviews with a community questionnaire, followed by thematic analysis for qualitative data and descriptive statistics for quantitative data. Findings underscore the need for improved education, affordable treatment access, and integrated control programs to address these challenges effectively.
Anticosti
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2019 —
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Researchers have identified Perforocycloides nathalieae, a new genus and species of cyclocystoid, a rare and poorly understood class of echinoderms, from the early Silurian period on Anticosti Island in Québec, Canada. This discovery marks the first articulated cyclocystoid found in North America during this geological timeframe. The specimen is distinguished by its unique dorsal intermarginal sutural pores and canals, which suggest a novel communication system between the dorsal disc and ventral marginals/cupules. Comparative analysis indicates that Perforocycloides closely resembles Zygocycloides, hinting at greater Silurian diversity than previously thought. The study also highlights significant gaps in global knowledge of cyclocystoid distribution, particularly within Gondwana regions and Přidolí strata.
Natural System of Wrangel Island Reserve
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2019 —
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A significant correlation exists between the phenological events of Pacific walruses (Odobenus rosmarus divergens) and sea ice dynamics around Wrangel Island, suggesting that phenological dates can serve as indicators for monitoring habitat changes in this subspecies' northwestern distribution range. The study, based on observations from 1989 to 1998, found that the feeding period lasted between 79 to 100 days and terrestrial haulouts were used every 1.6–2 years, with walruses spending 33 to 52% of their presence period ashore. These findings highlight the sensitivity of walrus behavior to sea ice conditions, providing critical insights for conservation efforts in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tchogha Zanbil
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2019 —
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A breakthrough in photogrammetry demonstrates that non-metric digital cameras and UAVs can produce highly accurate 3D models of remote cultural heritage sites, including UNESCO World Heritage Site Tchogha Zanbil. This study shows that Structure-from-Motion (SfM) photogrammetry, when applied to both aerial and terrestrial images, generates detailed point clouds at minimal cost. By comparing four distinct point clouds derived from oblique and nadir UAV photos alongside terrestrial images, researchers highlight the potential of this method for comprehensive documentation, conservation, and dissemination of cultural heritage in challenging environments.
Monastery of Alcobaça
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2019 —
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Photogrammetry emerges as a transformative tool in heritage conservation, offering significant advantages over traditional survey methods. This study demonstrates its efficiency in reducing field and office work hours while providing flexible, high-precision restitution tailored to project needs. Single-image photogrammetry proved ideal for flat elements like facades, while stereophotogrammetry enabled detailed diagnostic observations of construction anomalies during the restoration of Jerónimos Monastery's vaults. Multiple-image photogrammetry, generating dense 3D models, became the preferred method for recent projects, including the Alcobaça Monastery church facade and São Miguel-o-Anjo lighthouse in Porto, facilitating precise anomaly mapping to support conservation efforts.
Monastery of Alcobaça
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2019 —
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Photogrammetry emerges as a transformative tool in restoration projects, offering significant advantages over traditional survey methods. This study demonstrates that photogrammetric techniques—ranging from single-image to multiple-image photogrammetry—substantially reduce field and office working hours while providing restitution with varying degrees of detail and precision. Single-image photogrammetry is particularly effective for flat elements like facades, whereas stereophotogrammetry excels in detailed diagnostic observations due to its stereoscopic vision capabilities. Multiple-image photogrammetry, which generates dense 3D point clouds, is increasingly adopted for heritage documentation and three-dimensional visualization. Applied to the church facade of the Monastery of Alcobaça and other sites like the São Miguel – o - Anjo lighthouse in Porto, these methods enable detailed mapping crucial for anomaly diagnosis and conservation projects.
Old Bridge Area of the Old City of Mostar
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2019 —
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The stone 'Tenelija,' an oolitic limestone, exhibits unique physical and mechanical properties that have enabled its use in historic constructions, including the iconic Old Bridge in Mostar. Despite its low uniaxial compression strength, high porosity, and significant water influence on strength, structures built with this stone have endured for centuries. Laboratory testing of samples revealed these characteristics, with analysis showing correlations between different properties. This study highlights the resilience of 'Tenelija' stone, offering insights into its durability despite inherent weaknesses.
Bursa and Cumalıkızık: the Birth of the Ottoman Empire
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2019 —
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Tourism is altering the physical fabric of Cumalıkızık Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site representing the rural-urban dynamics of the Early Ottoman Empire. Research shows that increasing tourism has led to commercial adaptations in traditional houses along key sightseeing routes, threatening their authenticity and sustainability. The study analyzed three historic dwellings—selected for their prominence on the main tourist path—revealing interventions such as modifications to courtyards and facades, often driven by owner-led efforts to capitalize on visitor interest. These changes, while enhancing economic viability, risk compromising the village's cultural integrity, posing challenges for preservation in World Heritage contexts.
Quebrada de Humahuaca
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2019 —
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Research on 16 Andean potato genotypes from the Quebrada de Humahuaca, Argentina, reveals distinct starch properties that enable tailored applications. Four genotype groups emerged: one with high gelatinization temperatures suitable for high-temperature processing; another with superior water retention ideal for moisture-sensitive products; a third with elevated amylose content, enhancing mechanical properties for edible films; and a final group exhibiting stability and low syneresis, making it viable for refrigeration and freezing. The study analyzed key physicochemical traits—including moisture, protein, ash, phosphorus, particle size, swelling power, thermal properties, and gelatinization—using principal component analysis to classify genotypes. These findings bridge traditional Andean agriculture with modern food and non-food product development, offering a resource for cultivating potatoes with specialized starch characteristics.
Comoé National Park
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2019 —
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A comprehensive inventory of 68 useful wild mushroom species in Côte d’Ivoire reveals significant phytogeographical and sociolinguistical variation in their distribution and utilization. Dominated by food (56 species) and medicinal (16 species) uses, these mushrooms—ranging from saprotrophic to symbiotic types—show distinct preferences across climatic zones, with the highest diversity (41 species) found in the Sudano-Guinean savanna. Key species like <em>Auricularia sp3</em>, <em>Psathyrella tuberculata</em>, and <em>Termitomyces spp.</em> are widely used, highlighting both ecological importance and cultural value. The study underscores the critical role of protected areas as last sanctuaries for these fungi amid rapid habitat loss.
Rila Monastery
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2019 —
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A comprehensive analysis of the wall paintings in Chapel 'St. Nikolay' at Rila Monastery's Catholicon reveals the use of traditional pigments and organic binders, providing insights into medieval art techniques in Bulgaria. The study identified a range of minerals such as lapis lazuli, malachite, and hematite, alongside plant-based resins like mastic and dammar, highlighting the advanced craftsmanship and materials used by 19th-century artists. Researchers employed non-invasive analytical methods, including Raman spectroscopy and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, to examine the pigments and binders without damaging the original artwork. This findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the conservation challenges and historical significance of Rila Monastery's cultural heritage.
Pilgrimage Church of St John of Nepomuk at Zelená Hora
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2019 —
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A case study reveals that while awareness of Christian pilgrimage sites in the Czech Republic is low, nearly half of respondents expressed interest in participating in such journeys. The Pilgrimage Church of St. John of Nepomuk at Zelená Hora could attract more visitors through targeted promotion emphasizing its role as a pilgrimage destination and by enhancing services for pilgrims. The research, combining quantitative surveys, qualitative interviews, and data analysis, also found that the church's return to the Roman Catholic Church in 2014 has reignited interest in restoring it as a significant pilgrimage site.
Cathedral, Alcázar and Archivo de Indias in Seville
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2019 —
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A pilot project utilizing HBIM (Heritage Building Information Modeling) demonstrates significant potential for enhancing preventive conservation efforts at the UNESCO-listed Cathedral of Seville, specifically targeting its Renaissance quadrant façade. The study, part of a broader research initiative supported by Spain's Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities, developed a detailed 3D model integrated with critical information parameters to streamline monitoring and assessment activities. Collaborating with Artyco S.L., the company responsible for the building's conservation, researchers tailored the HBIM framework to align with established preventive conservation methodologies. Early evaluations suggest that this approach could be effectively scaled for future applications, offering a more structured and data-driven strategy for preserving cultural heritage assets. The findings contribute to ongoing discussions on integrating digital technologies in heritage management, particularly within projects aimed at long-term preservation.
Lower Valley of the Omo
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2019 —
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Water development schemes in Ethiopia's Lower Omo Valley act as 'technologies of the imagination,' prompting local communities to envision new futures. This study reveals how large dam and irrigation projects, alongside missionary efforts to install safe water supplies, are reshaping intergroup relations and daily life for indigenous groups like the Nyangatom. Ethnographic research demonstrates that these interventions stimulate diverse imaginings among locals, blending aspirations for development with persistent challenges such as access and social dynamics.
Town of Bamberg
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2019 —
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Refugee reception centers, often seen as transient 'non-places,' play a significant role in both public discourse and individual perception of migrants. A study focusing on the Bamberg Reception Centre in Germany, which opened in 2015 during a political crisis over asylum policies, reveals that these centers are not just spaces of transit but also dynamic sites where diverse perceptions, coping strategies, and spatial behaviors emerge. Initially housing predominantly Western Balkan asylum seekers, the center's resident composition became more heterogeneous from 2016 onward. The research highlights the fluid nature of such centers, shaped by legal treatment, discrimination, medical care, schooling, and the short duration of stay, reflecting broader social and individual challenges faced by migrants in receiving countries.
Hebron/Al-Khalil Old Town
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2019 —
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Rehabilitating historical areas, such as the market square in Hebron's Old City, can significantly boost tourism and economic sectors by preserving cultural heritage and promoting traditional industries. This study demonstrates that strategic planning—including the development of tourist paths, organized events, and the preservation of archaeological sites—enhances visitor attraction while addressing economic challenges. However, external control over tourism, such as Israeli oversight in Palestinian areas, limits potential benefits, necessitating regulatory support for sustainable growth.
Historic Centre of Warsaw
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2019 —
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Newly discovered source materials challenge the assumption of controlled urban development planning for Warsaw during Nazi occupation (1939–1945). Contrary to previous research, there was no official systematic plan for Warsaw, despite its symbolic significance. Mayor Oskar Dengel's private initiative aimed at reducing the population and redeveloping the city as a 'New German City,' but this lacked coordination with Berlin or Cracow. Unlike other occupied cities, Warsaw did not follow the 'New Redevelopment Programme.' Plans by Chief Development Officers Friedrich Papst and Friedrich Gollert in 1942/43 targeted demolition of identity-promoting structures like the Castle, reflecting shifting competencies and a problematic planning atmosphere under National Socialism. This study advances understanding of Nazi urban planning practices in Eastern Europe.
Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park
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2019 —
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A study of long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) in the Philippines revealed high prevalence and diversity of malaria parasites, with Plasmodium inui being the most common (44.2%), followed by P. fieldi (41.1%). Notably, wild macaques from Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (PPSRNP) on Palawan Island showed significant infection rates, including P. knowlesi and other zoonotic species like P. cynomolgi. Mixed infections were observed in 87% of Plasmodium-positive macaques, with variations in prevalence among different sites and troops. The research used nested PCR assays to analyze blood samples from wild and captive macaques across three locations, highlighting the risk of zoonotic transmission, particularly in Palawan.
New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands
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2019 —
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A multidisciplinary study of the New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands reveals that significant glaciation occurred during Marine Isotope Stage 10 (~384,000 years ago) and a restricted glacial period around 72–62 thousand years ago, rather than at the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). The research, combining geomorphological surveys, sedimentary analyses, dating, and glacier modeling, challenges previous assumptions about LGM glaciation. Findings suggest that despite cooler temperatures during the LGM, high seasonality and low precipitation prevented substantial ice formation. Instead, northward expansion of winter sea ice likely led to reduced precipitation, limiting glacial extent.
Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp (1940-1945)
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2019 —
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Post-Yugoslav Holocaust remembrance has increasingly focused on delegitimizing Yugoslavia’s communist past, particularly its antifascism, creating ideological space for the rise of populist and extremist movements. This study demonstrates how the abandonment of the Yugoslav national pavilion at Auschwitz reflects a shift in political memory that undermines the ontological security of the new polity, making populism an attractive ideology to exploit insecurity. By tracing the history of the memorial exhibition, the research illustrates how the removal of antifascism from state narratives enables the normalization of fascist ideologies in contemporary politics.
Historic Centre of Rome, the Properties of the Holy See in that City Enjoying Extraterritorial Rights and San Paolo Fuori le Mura
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2019 —
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A significant shift in Roman construction techniques occurred between the late 7th and early 8th centuries, marking a clear break from ancient traditions. This transition, evident in newly excavated structures on the Palatine and at San Paolo fuori le Mura, reflects changes in patronage mechanisms and control over Rome's built environment during the rise of papal power. The study suggests that after a period of decline under Byzantine administration, early 8th-century popes had to reestablish large-scale construction methods, offering insights into the growth and challenges of Rome's nascent papal government.
Historic City of Yazd
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2019 —
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A comprehensive dataset reveals key demographic and housing statistics for the Historic City of Yazd, Iran. The study captures population distribution, growth trends, and housing characteristics within this UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering critical insights into its urban dynamics. By analyzing census data, researchers provide a detailed snapshot of Yazd's residential landscape, including population density, household composition, and infrastructure. This dataset serves as a valuable resource for urban planners, historians, and policymakers studying the interplay between heritage preservation and modern development in culturally significant cities.
Galápagos Islands
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2019 —
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A study on the invasive parasitic fly, Philornis downsi, in the Galápagos Islands reveals that female flies can persist even when bird hosts are scarce, challenging previous assumptions about their population dynamics. The research, conducted between 2012 and 2014 at dry lowland and humid highland sites on Santa Cruz Island, found that female flies remained active year-round, with a significant proportion inseminated and gravid, indicating continuous breeding cycles. Male fly catch rates declined outside bird breeding seasons, suggesting host availability is a key regulator of their population. Overall, fly numbers were higher in drier habitats, potentially due to greater host or resource availability. The study also suggests that P. downsi populations are multivoltine and governed by simple density dependence, with female numbers likely regulated by the availability of bird nests with nestlings. These findings highlight the vulnerability of already threatened Galápagos bird species, which may be further exacerbated by unknown reservoir hosts or behavioral changes in the parasite.
Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries - Wolong, Mt Siguniang and Jiajin Mountains
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2019 —
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A surprising lack of genetic isolation was found among giant panda populations within the Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries, despite significant human disturbance. Researchers analyzed 539 fecal samples from Wolong Nature Reserve using tetra-microsatellite markers, identifying 142 unique genotypes and estimating a population size of 164 individuals (95% CI: 153-175). Contrary to expectations, no significant genetic boundaries were detected, even across the national road G350 that bisects the reserve. This suggests higher connectivity than previously assumed, likely due to high migration rates, including confirmed road-crossing events. The study highlights the importance of maintaining habitat corridors for gene flow preservation amid increasing development and tourism threats.
New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands
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2019 —
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Population growth of the endangered New Zealand sea lion (Phocarctos hookeri) on Campbell Island is primarily constrained by high pup mortality, not fisheries bycatch. A precautionary Potential Biological Removal (PBR) analysis revealed that current bycatch levels—even with a strong male bias (98%)—remain below sustainability thresholds, particularly after mitigation measures were implemented. Population Viability Analysis (PVA) modeling further supported this, indicating that reducing pup mortality, such as through ramp installations in wallows to prevent drowning, could significantly boost population growth. While long-term research is needed for more precise demographic data, the study underscores the critical need for ongoing conservation efforts focused on pup survival and bycatch mitigation, alongside robust observer coverage to ensure accurate annual estimates.
Garamba National Park
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2019 —
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Garamba National Park harbors one of the last isolated populations of Kordofan giraffe, with urgent conservation action needed to protect its remaining 45 individuals. This study reveals that the population is female-dominated and adult-heavy, with a limited distribution concentrated in the park's south-central sector. Surprisingly large home ranges, averaging 934.3 km² using autocorrelated kernel density estimation (AKDE) and 268.8 km² using traditional kernel density estimation (KDE), were observed despite the park's high humidity. The research employed GPS satellite collars and direct observations from September 2016 to August 2017, utilizing Continuous-Time Movement Modeling (CTMM) to analyze distribution patterns and movement dynamics. These findings highlight critical insights for informed conservation strategies.
Gough and Inaccessible Islands
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2019 —
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A significant decline in the population of Spectacled Petrels (Procellaria conspicillata) and other seabirds at Inaccessible Island was documented, raising concerns about the long-term viability of these species. The study, conducted over a decade, used long-term monitoring data to assess population trends, breeding success, and demographic changes in key seabird species. Researchers found that while some species showed resilience, others exhibited alarming declines, likely due to environmental pressures such as climate change and invasive species. This work underscores the need for targeted conservation efforts to protect these vulnerable populations within UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System
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2019 —
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Populations of the coral species <em>Montastraea cavernosa</em> on the Belize Barrier Reef exhibit strong genetic differentiation between shallow (10 m, 16 m) and deep (25 m, 35 m) zones, indicating a lack of vertical connectivity. This finding suggests that these populations have been historically isolated despite being part of a broader metapopulation. The study used nine polymorphic microsatellite loci to genotype colonies from four depth zones across two marine reserves—South Water Caye and Glover's Reef. Results revealed distinct genetic structures, reinforcing the need for management strategies that conserve coral populations across all depth zones, particularly in mesophotic regions, which may serve as critical larval sources for broader reef ecosystems.
Ajanta Caves
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2019 —
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Ajanta Caves, a collection of 30 rock-cut Buddhist temples near Aurangabad, Maharashtra, showcase a unique artistic tradition from the 1st century BC to the 7th century AD. Unlike conventional perspective-based art, Ajanta paintings depict figures in their entirety through horizontal bands, with backgrounds at the top and foregrounds below. This study highlights the portrayal of women in these cave paintings, emphasizing their significance within this classical Indian art form. The research likely involved analyzing the visual representation, compositional techniques, and cultural context of women depicted in the caves. Ajanta's serene location, overlooking the Waghora River, may have influenced its artistic flourishing, offering insights into Buddhist monastic life and artistic expression during this period.
Dacian Fortresses of the Orastie Mountains
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2019 —
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Despite Romania's commitment to UNESCO's 1972 World Heritage Convention, the Dacian fortresses of the Orăștie Mountains—recognized for their universal value—face significant challenges due to inadequate management and enforcement. While Sarmizegetusa Regia, under local administration, has seen improvements such as security, preservation efforts, and visitor infrastructure, the other five fortresses lack legal administrators, management plans, and financial support, leading to decay, vandalism, and illegal archaeological poaching. The study highlights a stark contrast: Sarmizegetusa Regia meets UNESCO standards with structured oversight, while unmanaged sites suffer from ruined structures, invasive vegetation, and unresolved land ownership issues. This disparity underscores systemic failures in Romania's regulatory framework for heritage protection, including gaps in anti-poaching measures and urban planning integration.
Caves and Ice Age Art in the Swabian Jura
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2019 —
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Despite the Swabian Jura's rich archaeological record, including Aurignacian ivory carvings and flutes, no Pleistocene parietal art has been documented there. While ochre traces on mobile artifacts suggest pigment use, their absence on cave walls raises questions about preservation or human activity. Geological processes like karstification may hinder paint longevity, and prolonged cave use could have destroyed any existing artwork, though remnants should persist if this were the case. A research gap persists due to the lack of systematic cave wall analysis. Current efforts leverage 3D cave recordings and advanced imaging techniques to systematically search for parietal art in known and potential new caves within the UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site.
Old Bridge Area of the Old City of Mostar
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2019 —
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Post-conflict reconstruction efforts in Bosnia and Herzegovina, particularly for UNESCO-listed cultural heritage sites, face significant challenges tied to economic conditions and refugee resettlement. A key finding is that while peace agreements aim to facilitate the return of refugees and restore destroyed heritage—such as the Kujundžiluk bazar near Mostar’s Old Bridge (a UNESCO World Heritage Site)—progress is hindered by societal attitudes toward preservation. The study highlights the impact of initiatives like 'Cultural Heritage Without Borders,' which, despite engagement, shows limited effectiveness in addressing these challenges due to underlying economic and social barriers.
Lut Desert
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2019 —
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A comprehensive study on the greater horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum) in Iran reveals significant new insights into its geographic distribution and habitat suitability. The research, combining historical records with 41 newly identified localities primarily across Zagros and Elburz ranges, used Maximum Entropy modeling (MaxEnt) to predict potential habitats. Key environmental variables such as annual precipitation, minimum temperature of the coldest month, and winter quarter precipitation emerged as critical predictors. The model demonstrated high accuracy (AUC=0.845), highlighting favorable conditions in northwest Iran while indicating limited suitability in southern, eastern, and southeastern regions. Notably, the vast deserts of Dasht-e Lut and Dasht-e Kavir were found to be unsuitable habitats for this species, with no recorded presence.
Galápagos Islands
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2019 —
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Research reveals that Galápagos lava lizards (Microlophus spp.) may play a significant but modest role as pollinators across the archipelago. Over three years, 8.4% of 296 sampled lizards carried pollen from at least 10 plant species, including both native and non-introduced plants, across seven lizard species and eight islands. While less dominant than birds or insects, this interaction suggests ecological importance for specific plants and ecosystems, particularly given the islands' diverse climates and functional traits.
City of Potosí
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2019 —
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Potosí stands as a testament to the profound economic and social transformations wrought by colonial exploitation. The Cerro Rico, or 'Rich Hill,' became the world's greatest silver source in the 16th century, fueling global trade from Istanbul to Beijing. Kris Lane's interpretive history reveals Potosí's rise and decline, highlighting its role in shaping the world economy while detailing the environmental and social devastation caused by rampant colonial practices. The narrative brings to life the diverse inhabitants—from native workers and African slaves to elite merchants—offering a vivid portrayal of excess, hardship, and resilience during boom and bust periods.
Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City
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2019 —
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Liangzhu society's power and belief system were intricately linked, with jade playing a pivotal role. The study of awl-shaped zhuixingqi objects revealed their significance as symbols of social power and religious faith. The research highlights how the control and use of jade resources were central to the establishment, consolidation, and expansion of Liangzhu's power structure. Spatial changes over time in the Liangzhu site cluster further illustrate this dynamic process. Notably, differences in jade use between male and female elite burials underscore the gendered aspects of power manifestation within this ancient society.
Quebrada de Humahuaca
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2019 —
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Prehispanic funeral practices in Quebrada de Humahuaca, Argentina, exhibited both continuity and change over time. While certain elements, such as burials within daily living spaces, remained consistent across different periods of occupation, the material accompaniments of the dead reflected evolving social dynamics. This suggests that while core aspects of mortuary rituals persisted, cultural adaptations mirrored broader societal shifts. The study synthesizes historical research from the early 20th century to analyze architectural and funerary evidence, offering insights into the cosmovision and cultural logic of these ancient communities.
Complex of Hué Monuments
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2019 —
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A comprehensive reconstruction study of the 'Can Chanh Dien' (CCD) Palace within Hue Imperial City has successfully redefined its architectural proportions and basic dimensions. The research, conducted by Le and Truong (2019), employed historical document analysis, site surveys, dimensional analysis, traditional design methodology investigation, and old photography analysis to experimentally reconstruct the palace's plan and section. Originally built in 1804 as a primary working hall for the Nguyen dynasty emperors, the CCD Palace suffered complete destruction of its wooden frame and roofs during the Indochina War in 1947, leaving only its platform intact. This study provides critical insights into the architectural heritage of Hue Imperial City, contributing to the preservation and understanding of Vietnam's cultural legacy.
Taos Pueblo
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2019 —
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Pre-Columbian trade routes in North America, including those connected to Taos Pueblo in New Mexico, demonstrated sophisticated long-distance connectivity without reliance on European technologies like the horse or wheeled conveyances. These routes linked Indigenous communities from Canada to the Mayan and Inca cultures, utilizing established trails, rivers, and trading centers along major waterways such as the St. Lawrence and Rio Grande. The research highlights how these pre-Columbian networks later formed the basis for colonial roads and settlements, revealing the enduring legacy of Indigenous trade systems in shaping North American geography and culture.
Temple of Preah Vihear
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2019 —
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A resurgence of territorial disputes over the UNESCO-listed Temple of Preah Vihear reignited conflict between Cambodia and Thailand after decades of dormancy, with military force becoming a key factor in resolving tensions. The study reveals that the 2008 conflict was driven by geopolitical dynamics, historical grievances, and strategic interests, with both nations escalating military actions despite ASEAN's diplomatic efforts. Analyzing the situation through realism theories, the research highlights how regional organizations struggled to mediate a dispute rooted in power struggles rather than purely territorial claims. The findings underscore the challenges of resolving long-standing conflicts when military force is deployed as a primary tool for negotiation.
Temple of Preah Vihear
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2019 —
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Researchers achieved the first complete 3D digitization of Preah Vihear Temple, a north-south-oriented Hindu site on the Cambodia-Thailand border. This breakthrough required novel hardware and software solutions to overcome challenges posed by the temple's size and cliffside location. The resulting high-resolution point-cloud data enabled analysis of its central axis direction, which was then interpreted through Khmer legends. Unlike most Angkor Dynasty sites oriented east-west, Preah Vihear's unique alignment offers new insights into architectural symbolism and regional cultural practices.
Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island
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2019 —
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A significant predation pressure on native endemic vertebrates, particularly the endangered Okinawa spiny rat (Tokudaia muenninki), by domestic cats was identified in the northern forests of Okinawa-jima Island, Japan. The study analyzed 60 cat scats collected from route surveys and captured cats between 2013 and 2018, revealing that 61.1% contained traces of the spiny rat, with even higher prevalence (71.4%) in core routes near their distribution area. Ryukyu long-furred rats (Diplothrix legata) were also frequently detected, suggesting cats pose a substantial threat to these vulnerable species. The research highlights the need for targeted conservation measures to mitigate the impact of domestic cats on endangered wildlife in UNESCO-listed sites like Amami-Oshima and Iriomote Islands.
Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island
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2019 —
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A study on Tokunoshima Island reveals that human-subsidized domestic cats significantly contribute to predation pressure on endangered species, even when their diet is heavily reliant on artificial resources. Using fecal and stable isotope analyses, researchers found that while 20.1% of feral cat feces contained evidence of forest-living species, the cats' long-term dependence on human-provided food was more pronounced. The study also showed a strong correlation between cat diet and landscape variables, indicating that cats move from human-habituated areas to natural ones with high biodiversity. These findings suggest that anthropogenic feeding may indirectly exacerbate predation effects, highlighting the need for further demographic studies. Effective cat management should include not only trapping but also public education on reducing feeding of free-ranging cats and keeping pet cats indoors.
Yellowstone National Park
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2019 —
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The introduction of predatory lake trout into Yellowstone Lake triggered profound and far-reaching ecological changes, extending beyond the aquatic environment to impact terrestrial food webs. Over four decades (1972–2017), this invasion led to a dramatic decline in native prey fish, particularly Yellowstone cutthroat trout, while altering plankton assemblages within the lake and reducing nutrient transport to tributary streams. The effects crossed ecosystem boundaries, compelling grizzly and black bears to seek alternative foods and causing significant declines in osprey nest density and success. Bald eagles adjusted their diets to compensate for the loss of cutthroat trout, underscoring the cascading impacts of invasive species on pristine ecosystems. This study highlights how predatory fish introductions can disrupt multiple trophic levels, both within and across ecosystems.
Te Henua Enata – The Marquesas Islands
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2019 —
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Miconia calvescens, a notorious invasive plant species, poses a significant threat to the biodiversity of the Marquesas Islands (French Polynesia). Modeling predicts its potential spread across all inhabited islands, with particularly high risk on Nuku Hiva and Fatu Hiva, where it could occupy up to half and a third of their surfaces, respectively. The study used MAXENT modeling based on over 3,000 occurrence records from both native and introduced ranges, incorporating climate variables at a 1 km scale and topographic variables at a 10 m scale. This approach provides critical data for stakeholders to implement early warning systems and control strategies, preventing potential ecological damage without strong biosecurity measures.
Stonehenge, Avebury and Associated Sites
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2019 —
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Prehistoric landscapes, such as those found at Stonehenge and Avebury World Heritage Sites in Wiltshire, UK, significantly contribute to ontological security and existential wellbeing for present-day individuals. This study builds on Grenville's (2007) theory that the built historic environment fosters individual ontological security by exploring qualitative research findings from these prehistoric landscapes. The research suggests that these sites have a profound impact on personal wellbeing, offering a sense of stability and continuity that is crucial for existential security.
Benedictine Convent of St John at Müstair
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2019 —
WHED73FF0A638
Research on the Benedictine Convent of St. John at Müstair reveals that while dolomitic rocks were likely the primary raw material for historic lime mortars, their high variability in crystal size and fabric makes them unreliable as direct indicators for provenance studies. However, the presence of silicate phases in underburnt relics may serve as potential proxies. The study combined Polarizing Light Microscopy (PLM) and X-ray Powder Diffraction (XRPD) analysis to investigate textural features and mineralogical composition, providing new insights into the historical construction practices of the Val Müstair region.
Medina of Tunis
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2019 —
WHE0B8FE81F9B
Neocolonial influences persist in Tunisia's heritage management and tourism, despite the decline of overt colonial ties. The study examines how contemporary preservation practices and tourist experiences in Tunis, such as curated medina walking tours, the renovation of Avenue Bourguiba, and the expansion of the Bardo Museum, reflect sustained foreign influence through international development loans, professional exchanges, and tourism programs. Rather than rejecting these practices, the research advocates for a nuanced debate on their impact, conservation approaches, and potential alternatives for Tunisia's rapidly evolving heritage landscape.
Fujian Tulou
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2019 —
WHE8544C6662A
Effective son et lumière shows can significantly enhance the preservation of UNESCO World Heritage Sites by creating immersive experiences that engage audiences and convey historical and cultural information without altering the physical structure. A study analyzing three prominent cases in China—Fujian Tulou, Nanjing’s City Wall, and Macao’s St. Paul’s Ruins—reveals that prioritizing content to accurately represent a site’s characteristics, values, and attractions is crucial for success. The research identifies key strengths and weaknesses in these shows while establishing criteria for future improvements. With nocturnal tourism growth and government support, son et lumière remains a vital trend in China, offering potential for deeper audience engagement and heritage preservation through innovative storytelling.
